Radio interference with ZD2 engaged ???

[SLBlues]

My 5E3 is picking up radio station interference when I engage my ZD2. The other pedals in the chain are a ST-200 and RC Booster. It only occurs when the ZD2 is on.

Any ideas on what may be causing this issue and maybe how to fix it? TIA

[SatelliteAmps]

Sounds like your ZD2 is picking up RF noise. Usually it is either a loose/bad ground, non shielded wire, bad layout, or some sort of oscillation. Or it could just be a bad instrument cable.

[SLBlues]

Thanks, I'll check those things that I can. Appreciate the help.

[SLBlues]

Checked and changed what I could, even the tube and tried a diff power supply, isolated the power supply, and no change. Sent an email to Alf for help.

[SatelliteAmps]

If it is picking up RF, it will be an issue inside the circuit, not really a power supply, or tube issue.

[SLBlues]

Adam thanks for your responses. I assume you are talking about the circuits inside the ZD2 not the 5E3. Is that correct?

[HipKitty]

Originally Posted by SatelliteAmps

If it is picking up RF, it will be an issue inside the circuit, not really a power supply, or tube issue.

The first question I have is when did it start? If the problem did not exist and the pedal was in the same location in signal chain..as were the other pedals/amp/cables...something has gone bad somewhere within the units in the signal chain (i.e. pedal, amp, cable). If it began to occur once soemthing was changed....that can pinpoint the problem.

[SLBlues]

The ZD2 has been on the shelf for awhile and I just put it in the signal chain a few days ago. The interference started as soon as the ZD2 was in the chain. The interference is there when the ZD2 is the only effect used and engaged. The interference is not present when the ZD2 is turned off. There is no audible interference when the going direct from the guitar to the amp. I changed all the cables in the chain and it made no difference.

[SatelliteAmps]

Yes, I am talking about the ZD2 circuit. If it only happens when that is in the signal chain, and on, then that is usually where the problem lays. Did you try changing the tube in the ZD2?

[SLBlues]

Yes, I tried a NOS RCA 12AX7A in it with no change in the level of interference.

[SatelliteAmps]

You could try the fast fix, which would be to take a very small cap and try putting it across the input, and the output. You risk losing treble response, but it might help locate where the RF is coming from. You should also go through and tighten all the nuts and screws. If you feel like it (it is dangerous due to high voltage), you could take a wooden dowel or chopstick (not a pencil, graphite conducts electricity) and use it to move wires around inside the pedal while it is one to also try and isolate the issue.

[SLBlues]

Turns out the problem, radio interference, occurs with any OD, Distortion pedal with the gain turned up. Not just the ZD2. Happens with TS9, BD2, FAB etc. Still not sure what might be causing the problem ?