Newish 5pin cable or jack issue

[moongerm]

My relatively newish Series II build (3yrs approx) is experiencing issues with either the 5pin jack or 5pin cable (that came with the bass).  Once it is locked in place it moves enough to where it loses connectivity (clicks and pops come from the amp) as well as flickering power loss to the leds. What is the best way to make the connection snug so this no longer occurs. I can't afford to have this fail or cause issues on the bandstand.


As of now it is only when I go to take the bass off of my shoulder does it do this.  I am afraid it is only going to get worse. Thanks...

[FC Bass]

Maybe tightening all screws will help? There's one on the inside holding the connector to it's outer casing, might be the culprit.

[moongerm]

I just tried it again including tightening the flathead screw that holds the connector to the outside casing (thanks FC). I think (pretty sure) it is the Alembic provided cable that has the issue (Belden 8424 with Neutrik connector). Holding the bass upright and just moving the cable it looses connectivity. Not sure if it is something I can repair myself? Should I send it in? It shouldn't fail this quickly. Thanks.

[edwardofhuncote]

Can't be much help on your cable connection, but good to see you here, Brian! 

[JimmyJ]

Brian,

Definitely find yourself a replacement cable, I would suspect the cable before suspecting the bass.

In recent years Belden discontinued making, and then reintroduced 8424.  But the "new" version was made with different (read cheeper) materials and I have experienced a FEW failures similar to what you describe - all near the bass where the cable takes a turn towards the floor.  The last time it happened I cut the cable down to a one foot piece in which the white conductor does not connect from one end to the other.  Very frustrating.

I had a good discussion with Ron W. about the issue and of course Alembic has been actively seeking a worthy replacement cable to use.  Nothing available is as robust as the original 8424 but there are some better alternatives than the current Belden offering.  I believe Alembic is now using Gotham wire.  I've replaced all of my cables with Mogami 2534 "quad" mic cable and so far so good.  (Just gotta pay close attention to which of the blue or white wires is which!)

The thing is, I don't believe Alembic let any of their instruments ship with the "new" 8424.  I think they were using old stock until they ran out.  But there may have been a short overlap, I don't know.  Your failure sure sounds like what I have experienced.

Jimmy J
PS: I always carry a spare 5-pin cable and even a 1/4" backup just in case.

[David Houck]

Another thing to look for, though rare.  On the connector, where it meets the jack, there is an O-ring.  On mine, the O-ring broke and fell off, and the connection is no longer tight.  I've yet to look for a replacement O-ring, but I imagine they are inexpensive, perhaps located at a hardware store.

[jwright9]

Brian,
I have an extra 30' 5 pin cable that I will sell you if you. It is mint and has only been used a couple times in the studio.
If you want it just message me or email me at studiogallerywright@mac.com.

[moongerm]

Thanks so much Jimmy, Dave  and FC. Of course this happens with a string of gigs starting in 2 days. This relatively new cable definitely should not have failed so soon.  

[mica]

Do you have a spare cable, Brian?  Send that one that is malfunctioning here of course.

[rv_bass]

Brian,
I emailed you, I have one you can borrow for your gigs if you want.  Let me know.
Rob

[moongerm]

Thanks Mica, Thanks Rob got.your email. I was able to find another one. I will go ahead and ship the malfunctioning one back Mica. You all rock!

[edwin]

Jimmy provided good advice. I've been making my own cables out of Mogami quad and they've never failed.

Of course, Mica and crew will make that cable right again.

[moongerm]

This just in: Mica and crew come through, as they always do. The repaired cable has been received yesterday (there was a short in the right angle jack end the repair note states).  Working better than ever. Thanks so much!