mixer issue

[mike c]

i use a mixer on my PC. granted, i've never turned it off because it doesn't have a power switch.
anyway, one channel has been disappearing and sometimes crackling.

i've eliminated the source,
the output cables because both headphones and speakers have the same issue.
the inputs because i've tried other inputs.

it's now down to the input CABLE or the mixer itself. (i'll try to plug another set of input cables).

if it's the mixer ... is this repairable? the mixer is a Behringer Xenyx 1002.

if not, what's a good USB mixer? (i plan to skip using the earphone jack out of the PC, or my USB DAC)

here's the current setup ... http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a330/superribbit/PC/aIMG_4856.jpg

i need a mixer in the mix (pun intended) because i don't want to be plugging and unplugging the headphones everytime i want to listen to the speakers.

 

[Pyrrho]

There is a good chance that one of the controls is simply dirty, and could be fixed by spraying it with DeoxIT, which is an electrical cleaner/lubricant. If I were to hazard a guess, it would be the slider control, as it has more opportunity for dirt to enter into the control. Here is one source for DeoxIT, though you can buy it many other places if you prefer:

Amazon.com: CAIG DeOxit Cleaning Solution Spray, 5% spray 5oz: Musical Instruments

Follow the directions on the can (e.g., have the mixer off when cleaning it, etc.).

 

[mike c]

good idea. i'll try cleaning the mixer

 

[Gordonj]

good idea. i'll try cleaning the mixer

Did the cleaning work? Does the static happen when you move a pot or fader? If so then most likely it would be a dirty pot. If not replace the cables (start simple). If it is indeed the mixer it most likely can be repaired however, it may cost you more to repair it then to simply buy a new one being that the going street price for that mixer $80usd.

As for the USB mixer. What inputs and outputs and how much is in your budget?...

Gordon

 

[mike c]

i tried to open it, but nothing but the bottom of the board could be seen, didn't want to further open it up.
but a piece of glue (teardrop shape) fell out.

didn't have contact cleaner as well, so i blasted the whole thing with WD40

the knobs feel super slick when turning, but the sound seems to be back.

wife said the sound wasn't as good as before ... am not sure if it was her imagination.

if the sound cuts out again, i'll be getting the behringer q802usb mixer

 

[Gordonj]

i tried to open it, but nothing but the bottom of the board could be seen, didn't want to further open it up.
but a piece of glue (teardrop shape) fell out.

didn't have contact cleaner as well, so i blasted the whole thing with WD40

the knobs feel super slick when turning, but the sound seems to be back.

wife said the sound wasn't as good as before ... am not sure if it was her imagination.

if the sound cuts out again, i'll be getting the behringer q802usb mixer

It will be interesting to see what happens form all that WD40....

 

[Grador]

i tried to open it, but nothing but the bottom of the board could be seen, didn't want to further open it up.
but a piece of glue (teardrop shape) fell out.

didn't have contact cleaner as well, so i blasted the whole thing with WD40

the knobs feel super slick when turning, but the sound seems to be back.

wife said the sound wasn't as good as before ... am not sure if it was her imagination.

if the sound cuts out again, i'll be getting the behringer q802usb mixer

Yeah..... I wouldn't have done that. WD40 is designed to leave a film of not-so-conductive oil residue on all surfaces. If the WD40 does it's job perfectly there will be quality degradation, but it might work out fine.

 

[mike c]

hehe, i've been eyeing a USB mixer ever since i heard about it. i guess, i was secretly hoping the mixer was toast ... and i needed to do everything (in my lazy power) before i ordered a new one

 

[Gordonj]

hehe, i've been eyeing a USB mixer ever since i heard about it. i guess, i was secretly hoping the mixer was toast ... and i needed to do everything (in my lazy power) before i ordered a new one

In that case "accidentally" spill a coke on top of it too. Between the WD40 and the coke "poof" new mixer time!

 

[mike c]

sound cut out again.

i ordered the Behringer Q802USB (local dealer said the 802 and 502 was the same price ... lazy dork)

i'll probably get it after the local holiday week.

should have tried other brands, but they're a lot more expensive.