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Old ibanez 1206 output volume issues

Discussion in 'Pickups & Electronics [BG]' started by tfernandez, Dec 11, 2014.

  1. Dec 11, 2014 #1
    tfernandez

    tfernandez

    Jul 5, 2010
    Hello everyone. I have been having weird inconsistencies with the output on my bass. Most of the time the output volume is normal and all the electronics function properly, but sometimes I will get a sever cut in output volume (more than half.) As terrible as it is to say, I give the bass a few "tasteful" wacks and the volume will pop back and forth between the two different outputs. Obviously it is some sort of wiring issue, but I was curious to know if it is more likely a bad connection on one of the eq pots or some other issue. In the lowered output, the pickup pan knob still works properly, so both pickups are still sending signal. This also doesn't seem to be an issue with the input jack since I'm not getting the popping that happens when the cable isn't connecting properly with the jack. As far as repairing goes, is it worth doing a complete rewire since the bass is almost 20 years old with all original wiring. If so, would I see a major difference in tone if I swapped out the ADX6 pickups for EMGs? I appreciate any help or tips. Thanks!
     
  2. Dec 14, 2014 #2
    Crater

    Crater

    Oct 12, 2011
    Dallas, TX area
    It could any one of several things, so I'll just throw these out there since no one else has replied...

    1) Possible bad power ground connection at the output jack. Try cleaning the output jack. Make sure the jack is mounted firmly and not rotating - if the jack's loose that will cause the wires to twist and short out together or flex and break off.

    2) Check the battery clip, make sure it's getting a firm grip on both battery terminals.

    3) Possible bad volume pot. Try 'exercising' the pots by turning them through their full rotation several times. Like the output jack, make sure none of your pots are loose in their holes and twisting, this can cause pot terminals to ground out against the shielding in your control cavity or wires to short out against each other.

    Pots and jacks *do* wear out over time, so sometimes it's worth replacing those for the sake of reliability. But new pots won't "upgrade" your tone to any significant degree, and since your bass is active, that often complicates the issue because a lot of times the pots are soldered directly to the preamp board or they are un-common resistance, taper, ect... So for an active bass, and provided you're happy with the sound you're getting now, then just replace what's needed to keep it going. If you're going to swap pickups, then there's no reason (besides money ;) ) to not go ahead and replace the electronics too.