Input jack corroded - might this be the cause of sound issues?

[Jigster]

Hi all - when I plug into the input socket I'm getting loads of noise and a loud horrible hum. It's like there's plenty of feed in there, but there's no seeming connection to the strings, I pluck them and the hum just overrides everything.

- it's like if you have your a lead in your amp, and run your finger over it at the plug end.

I took the plate off and I found a wee bit of corroded metal in the hole, which looks like it's off the input jack - it's unearthly crackling hum?

Any thoughts? Many thanks

[icastle]

Any corrosion or floating bits of metal is bad news.

If the jack socket is corroded and disintegrating then replacing it would certainly be a good starting off point - they're only a couple of quid.

[KiOgon]

Sounds like you need a new jack socket or perhaps a wonderful new complete wiring kit?

[Jigster]

[quote name='KiOgon' timestamp='1398103108' post='2430520']
Sounds like you need a new jack socket or perhaps a wonderful new complete wiring kit?
[/quote]

[size=4] [/size][size=4] - nice [/size]

Thanks guys.

[Count Bassy]

If it's the jack socket on your bass then it is an OUTPUT SOCKET !!!!!!!!

And yes replacing it is probably the best thing, although twisting a Scotchbrite down it might help temporarily (removing the Scotchbrite before inserting the Jack plug!!!)

[rmorris]

If it's visible flaking corrosion then you need a new jack socket. Get something good quality - Neutrik / Switchcraft / Rean / Cliff etc. - depending on what fits and it should be good for ages.
If more like surface tarnish then I'd suggest cleaning with a Caig DeOxit product to remove oxidisation products and a swab with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to degrease.
But given that the Caig DeOxit stuff isn't cheap then if you don't need it for other contacts and are okay with a soldering iron it might work out better to get a new jack socket anyway.

[Dad3353]

[quote name='Jigster' timestamp='1398102836' post='2430514']...I took the plate off and I found a wee bit of corroded metal in the hole, which looks like it's off the input jack...[/quote]

Don't forget to tip the water out of your hardcase, too..!

There's something wrong with the way your bass is/has been stored, I'd say. Certainly get the socket changed, but investigate why it's become so corroded at all..?