Why does patch cable in fx loop solve problems?!

scarry67

Cured problems in both amps today by just putting patch cable in fx loop (Tech 21 and a Session Duette). Both were playing up with volume cutting in & out. Why has this worked? I’m glad it has by the way...

John_P

The jacks on fx loops often rely on the contacts inside the jack, they can get dirty or lose the springiness over time leading to an intermittent connection or signal drop so adding the cable fixes that.   
Yoi could try cleaning with some servisol and push a jack plug in and out a few times - often fixes it. 

scarry67

Thanks I’ll get some Servisol in there sharpish. 

normula1

Just had to do this on my Lionheart.

scarry67

Mine have both been in slightly damp wardrobe for spells when not out and I wonder if that’s got into them. Weird that both have same issue. 

ICBM

scarry67 said:

Mine have both been in slightly damp wardrobe for spells when not out and I wonder if that’s got into them. Weird that both have same issue. 

Most likely. The usual cause is a tiny spot of corrosion in the FX return jack switch.