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Eden WT500 switch issue.

rufus.K

rufus.K

Oct 18, 2015
6,558
12,256
SoCal
#1
My backup amp just let me down. I've an Eden WT500 Highwayman that's got a power switch that sizzles. Since I've owned it (used) the LED's for each EQ knob (5band) had never lit up. I had someone over the other night, and I pulled it out and set it up with my nEARful for him to use.
When I powered it on, the LEDs for the EQ miraculously came on for the first time in 2 years. Oddly, the LED in the illuminated power switch was flickering. Well, it was fine to begin with, but after 1/2 hour the sound started cutting in and out. When I layer a finger on the power switch, not quite turning it off but rocking it gently, it started to sizzle audibly. All LEDs stayed on but zero sound. A bit more gentle fiddling the sound came back and sizzle stopped. It kept doing it every few minutes until it shut it down and used something else.
I guess the switch must have multiple contacts, more than just on & off, as there seems to be some mid position that let's the LEDS come on but not juice up the power section. I know I have to replace the switch, and haven't opened it up yet or looked for a schematic.
Anyone have any pertinent info or insight before I dig in?
 
#3
Don't mess around. If you have the skills replace the switch or have it replaced. Most illuminated power switches use a neon lamp as you can basically just wire the things across the AC supply and they draw almost no current. I would not advise using the amp again until the problem is rectified.
 
#5
bobcruz said:
You might be able to revive the existing switch with Deoxit if the contacts have any dirt or oxidation on them. Worth a try.
Click to expand...
Not a good idea in this case, the contacts are not oxidized or dirty, they are going to be pitted like the surface of the moon. Replacing the switch is the only safe switch, assuming this is the only problem (which it may be).
 
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#10
agedhorse said:
Are you SURE it's neon???
Click to expand...
Yes
upload_2016-7-11_11-17-26.png

I linked the MFG. webpage 3 post up. I found the exact switch after removing the old one.
 
#11
beans-on-toast said:
You can remove the connectors going to the switch and patch in another switch to confirm that the switch is the problem.
Click to expand...
I found a suitable donor (after ordering the exact replacement). The switch was indeed the problem, it was making intermittent contact, which sucked cos the amp was getting power on and off a few times a second and didnt like it. The new (temporary donor) switch is in, and she is very happy!
 
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#12
This is a stereo amp. My next issue is with the balance in the center, the sound drops out. I have to leave the balance knob one click either left or right for all to be okay. The knob is marked W100K, I should have something lying around... gotta find my discharge stick.
 
#13
Typically it sits in the center position and that point can develop issues. The fix could be as simple as cleaning it with Deoxit. If you can, apply some and move the knob back and forth several times. Sometimes just exorcising the balance back and forth repeatedly in rapid succession can help.
 

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