+1 on the battery compartment.
'Rays are well built instruments, but if they had a weak point, it would be the battery compartment. I've had a situation where if I even touched that area with any part of my body, the signal would go out or make funny squealing noises.
Regardless of whether or not this is the problem, I suggest you call EB customer service. They are friendly people more than willing to help in situations like this. I'm sure the number is on the EB website somewhere,
www.ernieball.com.