Troubleshooting Noisy Guitar Pots: Why Deoxit Might Not Fix It

Have you ever replaced your guitar's volume and tone pots, only to find that the newly installed components still crackle or make noise when you turn them? This can be a frustrating experience, especially if you've taken the time to overhaul your entire guitar amp. In this article, we'll explore the reasons behind this issue and how to properly address it.

Understanding Guitar Potentiometer Noises

Guitar potentiometers are electronic components that control the volume and tone of your instrument. When these components wear out or are improperly installed, they can produce unwanted noise, such as crackling or static. Replacing these pots can sometimes solve the problem, but other factors may contribute to the issue, as illustrated in the story below.

A Case Study: A Troubled Amplifier

Recently, a professional musician named JSV experienced this exact problem with a Marshall 1987 amplifier. After replacing the volume and tone pots, as well as overhauling the entire amp, the musician noticed that the amp sounded muddy and thin when the pots were turned. Despite multiple attempts to resolve the issue, including tube rolling, solder joint checks, and experimenting with different effects units, the problem persisted. It wasn't until consulting a trusted repair technician that the root cause was discovered – corroded tube socket pins.

Why Deoxit Might Not Help

Deoxit is a popular contact cleaner that many DIY enthusiasts and guitar techs recommend for cleaning pots and other electronic contacts. While it can be effective in certain situations, it may not always be the solution for persistent noise issues. In JSV's case, despite using Deoxit as directed, the problem persisted due to the corrosion of the tube socket pins.

DIY vs. Professional Repair

DIY solutions often yield quick fixes, but they may not address the underlying issues. Professional repair shops, on the other hand, can provide a more comprehensive solution. The story highlights the importance of ensuring that parts are properly replaced when you bring your guitar to a repair shop. Some repair shops may use contact cleaner to save time or as a cost-cutting measure, which can sometimes worsen the problem in the long run.

Troubleshooting Steps to Take

If you find yourself in a similar situation, consider the following steps:

Identify the source of the noise: Determine if the noise is coming from the pots or other components, such as the tubes or wiring. Inspect the pots: Check for physical damage, such as bent pins or debris inside. If the pots are visibly damaged, replace them. Consider corrosion issues: Inspect the tube socket pins for signs of corrosion, which may require replacing the pins. Check for proper installation: Ensure that all components, including the pots, are installed correctly and securely. Seek professional help: Consult a trusted repair professional to help identify and address the root cause of the noise.

Conclusion

Deoxit can be a useful tool for cleaning guitar pots and other electronic contacts, but it may not always be the solution for persistent noise issues. To ensure that your guitar plays flawlessly, it's crucial to identify and address the underlying causes of the problem. If you're unsure, seek advice from a professional repair technician who can provide a comprehensive diagnosis and solution.

~JSV