AboutFrank A Dornay Jr Expertise I can answer questions about basic theory (i.e. key signatures, harmonies, intervals) and better ways to improve playing. I cannot answer more advanced theory questions or guitar value related questions.
Experience I have been playing guitar for over 10 years, and am currently studying to become a teacher.
Question I have a Session 75 guitar combo amplifier. This was manufactured in the 1980s and I have recently replaced the power amp for the second time in its life.
The problem is that the volume controls are unreliable. Sometimes when everything is turned down to minimum, just touching one of the volume or tone buttons will cause the volume to increase dramatically. Equally when the volume is turned up, it can turn itself off in an instant.
Is there a cost-effective solution to this? I have already spent around £50 trying to revive this amplifier rather than chucking it out. I would love to get it working again but do not want to throw more money at it in vain.
Answer Hello Lawrence!
I must congratulate you, as you are my FIRST e-mail from outside the United States. Anyway, your problem sounds very frustrating. It sounds like there's a loose connection within the circuitry. When you touch the controls, it is making or breaking the connection. If you can, you may be able to disassemble the amp to get to the circuitry, and solder the joints back together, but if it sounds too technical, you may just want to buy a new amp and send this one to a recycling bin. You have already spent some on it and are probably considering not wasting your money on it.
My first amplifier was a Crate, and it was a VERY valuable purchase. There are amplifiers that are inexpensive, and will not be as troublesome as your current one. Good luck!
