SA220 Buzz....

[dgt178]

...wondering if anyone knows how to fix the buzz/hiss that's fairly common on the SA220. I found a site where they go step-by-step wrapping copper tape around the internal ribbon cables, then soldering a wire to that tape and grounding it. I tried that website today, and it seems to be gone. I've already done the "pot cleaning" with both compressed air and electronic cleaner. A grounding issue seems to be the problem. Any suggestions?......

[GmanJeff]

I don't have a direct answer, but suggest you contact Fishman support. In my experience they are responsive and helpful.

[dgt178]

thanks for the reply, Jeff....I have contacted Fishman in the past. They recommended cleaning the "pots"...(potentiometers).....I've done that...my problem seems to be a grounding issue.....not sure if Fishman would recommend a modification.....somehow. I think the internal cables need to be grounded better.....btw.....this seems to be an issue with some other amps as well....not just the SA220.....thanks.....

[jpino]

Hmm I don’t know if that’s related to my problems but my advice is always take it to your local “amp guy”, if you have one. I discovered the newer Fishman Sa330x also has certain “resonate frequencies” that will cause the center to rattle approximately where the handle is on the back & sides of that area. My amp technician couldn’t even target it with a guitar(different notes). I had to bring and leave my actual instrument with him to pinpoint it. Fishman probably would of sent it back to me like “It’s fine”... but it is a known problem - peep the Sweetwater reviews (it’s super rare as it depends on the instrument maybe even the pickups but still). Noted is what my guy did to “fix” it (there’s still a very subtle rattle but much much better and not as annoying anymore):

1) Disassembled and tightened all speaker and baffle board hardware.
2) Installed rubber grommets on handle.

Hope it helps!

[dgt178]

thanks for the insight, jpino.....I might just bring it in to a local "amp guy".....but they're kinda pricey.....so I might try to find some common grounds first, and see if that helps......thanks.....

[GHowdy]

Same thing happened with my 220 a couple of years ago. Fishman support suggested cleaning the pots which I did and the hiss was eliminated.
Disassembled easily...blew out the pots with canned air (computer cleaner)...reassembled...then taped the seams with black tape.
I use the 220 at least once a week and no problems since.

[dgt178]

thanks, howdy.....I don't use mine very often, which may contribute to the problem.....

[SalFromChatham]

I have a SA330 now (used to have a 220). They fixed that issue in the 330. With the 220, the more you use it, and move the knobs, the greater the chance you dont have the pot issue.

[dgt178]

Originally Posted by SalFromChatham

I have a SA330 now (used to have a 220). They fixed that issue in the 330. With the 220, the more you use it, and move the knobs, the greater the chance you dont have the pot issue.

Thanks, Sal....did Fishman ever state what the actual problem was that they improved with the 330?

[Chriscom]

Originally Posted by dgt178

Thanks, Sal....did Fishman ever state what the actual problem was that they improved with the 330?

My understanding is simply that the SA220 had open pots, allowing dust and what have you to get in there, while the SA330x has sealed pots. (pots short for potentiometer a.k.a. knob)

[dgt178]

Originally Posted by Chriscom

My understanding is simply that the SA220 had open pots, allowing dust and what have you to get in there, while the SA330x has sealed pots. (pots short for potentiometer a.k.a. knob)

thanks, Chriscom......I don't see how dust could get into an open pot that is enclosed inside the unit....my house isn't the cleanest, but it's not THAT dirty......

[SalFromChatham]

try the fix fishman recommends... and then afterwards, turn the knobs every few days.

seriously

[col_jp]

I used De-ox 5 after opening it up and turned the nobs a bunch and it works like a champ now.