/ Register

Strange Hum

Discussion in 'Pickups & Electronics [BG]' started by S. Katz, Jul 23, 2009.

  1. Jul 23, 2009 #1
    S. Katz

    S. Katz Guest

    Oct 24, 2008
    Los Angeles
    I get a hum when I touch the pots (volume or tone). It goes away when I release contact. The volume of the hum is entirely a matter of the volume on the amp--volume pot does not effect it.

    Any ideas about what is causing this?
     
  2. Jul 23, 2009 #2
    brekfustuvluzer

    brekfustuvluzer

    May 26, 2006
    Dallas, TX
    amp grounding problem. try the lift switch on your amp.
     
  3. Jul 23, 2009 #3
    S. Katz

    S. Katz Guest

    Oct 24, 2008
    Los Angeles
    Nope--doesn't make a difference.
     
  4. Jul 23, 2009 #4
    thirtypoint87

    thirtypoint87

    Feb 9, 2004
    Manager/Repairman: Music-Go-Round
    Sounds to me like something inside the guitar isn't grounded or shielded properly. Chasing out those "Hum Demons" can be a chore, but it always can be done! If the control cavity isn't shielded with copper foil, this would be great time to do it, (It's a hassle, but you can save some cash if you do it yourself. It's a good idea to solder the pieces of foil together, too.) If you're comfortable with guitar wiring and a soldering iron then now is the time to open 'er up and git t' work. If this is not you, then consider taking your guitar plus around $20-50 to a good local shop* and let it be somebody else's problem....

    Good luck, Katz!

    *I work at one of those "good local shops" and have corrected/reworked more guitars than I care to count that were "repaired" at GC and now Best Buy (!). Folks, don't go to Wal-Mart (of guitars) when you need an expert!