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4508 Views 50 Replies Latest reply: Oct 31, 2011 3:43 AM by edstar1960 RSS
edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
edstar1960
712 posts since
May 25, 2010
Currently Being Moderated

Jul 25, 2011 6:18 AM

JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

On Saturday I was re-programming my X3L to automatically select the correct JTV-59 patch.  The patches had all previously been set up for use with my Variax 700 and I was just stepping through each with the JTV connected and changing from DONT FORCE MODEL to the required selection. I came across a patch I needed to change, so I used the X3L knob to move from DONT FORCE MODEL to select what was on the JTV, it displayed the current JTV position which was CUSTOM BANK 1, switch position 3.  So I moved the switch on the JTV to position 5 (down) and rotated the model select knob to Lester. I then played a chord and noticed that the sound seemed to be cutting in and out.  I swapped the switch back to the middle and it stopped - I then swapped to position 1 (up) and the intermittent sound started again. Back to middle and all OK.  I then pressed the ALT-TUNE knob and tried switching to positions 2 and 4 (Up and down) and had the same problem.  Then I realised that the intermittent sound was actually the guitar just swapping guitar models automatically.

 

I abandoned trying to update that patch and moved to a different patch and again tried the switching - position 3 or middle worked fine - positions 1 and 5 or 2 and 4 (up and down) had the automatic model change, stepping through diffferent model sounds.

 

I then decided to go ahead leaving the guitar switch in the middle and just program each patch by using the control knob on the X3L to select the required JTV patch and then saving the X3L patch. This seemed to work fine.   And it recalled the correct patches.

 

I then tried using the switch as a manual override again and discovered that it still played up.  But after a short while it started working fine again. 

I had not powered the X3L off and on, and I had not disconnected the JTV from the X3L.  The switch just seemed to correct itself.

 

I used the guitar at a gig after this using the X3L to change the guitar patches and all seemed fine.  I have not tried manually overriding it with the guitar switch again - so I will have to retest to see if the switch is still working fine or if it still exhibits this automatic chnage behaviour.

 

Is this a software glitch that cna just be resolved by a firmware update or is it a hardware malfunction and will I need to send the guitar off for repair?

 

Thanks

Eddie

Tags: model, vdi, patch, x3l, change, jtv59
  • Nick_Mattocks Best of the Best
    Nick_Mattocks
    9,065 posts since
    Mar 26, 2007
    Currently Being Moderated
    Jul 25, 2011 9:25 AM (in response to edstar1960)
    Re: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

    Sorry to say Ed, that the symptoms you are describing seem to be the switch problem starting to manifest itself.  Was the tip on your guitar's switch cream or black?

     

    Nick

    • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
      edstar1960
      712 posts since
      May 25, 2010
      Currently Being Moderated
      Jul 26, 2011 1:37 AM (in response to Nick_Mattocks)
      Re: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

      Hi Nick,

       

      The switch tip is black. The serial number is W110100182.    Which according to another thread may mean it was made in Oct 2010 - which, if true, begs the question why it only got delivered to my retailer June 26, 2011 - does that mean it was a return that eventually got passed on to me? Or was it a brand new one as my retailer said - in which case maybe the serial number should be interpreted as showing a Jan 2011 production date - but even so - why would it have taken till June to be delivered? I am speculating here - and only Line6 will know for sure when this guitar was made and whether or not it had the brand new fault free switch or if it could possibly have one of the solder issue switches.

       

      I did wonder whether it is the reported switch problem but two things don't fit the pattern:

       

      1) The switch started working correctly without the guitar being unplugged or powered down and left for a while. I was using it continuously - the switch problem occurred - then it resolved - so if it was due to the solder issue which was triggered by heat then surely the problem would not have corrected itself?

       

      2) From another thread, I understand the switch problem prevented switching to the alternate 2 and 4 positions, and what I experienced was intermittent sound (which initially sounded like warbling) and then when I listened closely I could distinguish it was actually automatically switching between several models - from the other thread it soulds like Line6 support think this is a new issue.  The sound would stop for a brief instant as it switched model and then for a brief instant I could hear the new model then it would swap again. I am not sure if it was cycling through all models or just a few models on a specific bank - it certainly sounded like one of the models was acoustic - so maybe it was the default custom1 bank it was cycling round. I don't know.

       

      I have not yet tried it again - so I need to see if I can reproduce it - this was certainly something that everyone else with the switch problem were able to do - and if I can reproduce it then I guess I will have to send it off for repair.

       

      I hope it isn't the switch problem and that it is just some weird firmware glitch that can be easiliy fixed.

       

      I would like to hear Line6 supports view on the problem.

       

      Thanks.


      Eddie

      • Nick_Mattocks Best of the Best
        Nick_Mattocks
        9,065 posts since
        Mar 26, 2007
        Currently Being Moderated
        Jul 26, 2011 5:17 AM (in response to edstar1960)
        Re: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

        Hi Ed

         

        My JTV-59 has a more recent serial number than yours by a factor of about 40.  I got mine in from a batch that arrived at the end of May.  I know for certain that mine was produced after January this year.  I don't know the logic behind how the serial numbering works on the guitar but like mine your serial number starts 1101 which leads me to believe that the initial 11 might indicate the year 2011 but maybe that's where anything logical to us end users ends and I have no idea whether I'm barking up the wrong tree or not on that - but have to say when I registered mine the registration form seemed to expect something starting with 10.  Of course by mid January the switch problem was known, so there may have been a delay in production at that point I suppose, and some guitars may have been mothballed to await switches.  I am speculating though.  Sorry don't know.

         

        Some users have reported their switch going intermittent like yours, then recovering for a while before dying.

         

        The three way switch going faulty should not prevent the pushing of the Alt tuning control from switching.  If your model gets stuck on position 5 then pressing the Alt Tuning switch should give you position 4 as well.

         

        I think what you experienced was probably the guitar maybe cycling through a couple or more of the variants of a specific model.

         

        I doubt it is a firmware glitch, but it might be.  You could try re-flashing the firmware if it happens again.  I suspect that your switch is one of the earlier type and if so then it is likely that you have the problem.

         

        I really hope not, but....

         

        Nick

        • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
          edstar1960
          712 posts since
          May 25, 2010
          Currently Being Moderated
          Jul 26, 2011 6:27 AM (in response to Nick_Mattocks)
          Re: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

          Thanks for your input Nick.

           

          When I first got the guitar I did check the switch cavity to see whether I had the newer switch or not. I can't remember exactly what thread pointed this out - I think it was one from Ozbadman (Dave) - and I remember thinking yep that's the new switch design based on that thread.  Plus as you had already mentioned your serial number was close to mine I felt confident mine was a newer guitar.  Hence, if I do have a switch problem its most likely the solder issue which I thought raised it's head once the guitar got to a certain temp and that once it had cooled down would go away for a while until the temp had raised again.  As my problem went away mysteriously while the guitar was still in the same operating session so therefore would be just as hot if not hotter than when the fault triggered, makes me think it is not the solder issue either.

           

          I have seen a few threads where people have mentioned the cycling/warbling/intermittent sounds but they did seem to have the older switch or at least had their switches swapped out. And as I mentioned there is one out there where Line6 have stated they think its a new issue - will see if I can track that down.

           

          Meanwhile, I would like Line6 support to chime in with their view and to confirm from my guitar serial number whether mine should be a new switch or not.  Thanks in advance guys!  

          • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
            edstar1960
            712 posts since
            May 25, 2010
            Currently Being Moderated
            Jul 26, 2011 6:44 AM (in response to edstar1960)
            Re: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

            I haven't yet found the thread that mentions Line6 thinking its a new problem but will keep looking.

            But did find this fairly recent thread where two users report they have the switch problem and list their serial numbers.  Here is the thread and excerpts from the entries:

             

            From thread: http://uk.line6.com/support/thread/67084?tstart=0

             

            Entry1: "while it does have the new smaller switch it started playing up pretty quickly with the already well documented problems and eventually stopped working properly this week so it's getting sent back for repair tomorrow.   It's serial number is W110100478 which is presumably newer than the one you're looking at?"

             

            Entry2: "This issue is clearly NOT resolved as people (including me) are still having the problem with the "new" batch. Received my JTV59 on 7/7, ordered from GC months ago, and it started switching models randomly today. Serial #110100184."

             

            The second one is only 2 away from my serial number!  And the first one a few hundred further on. So doesn't look good for me. 

             

            What is your serial number Nick?  If you are in the same sort of range then yours may be at risk too. Has your JTV59 switch been behaving perfectly so far?

            
            • Nick_Mattocks Best of the Best
              Nick_Mattocks
              9,065 posts since
              Mar 26, 2007
              Currently Being Moderated
              Jul 26, 2011 8:29 AM (in response to edstar1960)
              Re: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

              Hi Eddie

               

              I've followed this whole thing very closely right from the start back in January so I know the points you are raising. 

               

              The initial problem was reported to be something mechanical with the original switch and then some users reported issues even when their guitars were fitted with the new smaller switch.  The second problem was attributed to excess solder flux.

               

              You may have a new switch fitted already or you may nor.  Can you post a pic of the switch cavity?

               

              Yes indeed mine may be at risk. :-(

               

              Nick

              • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                edstar1960
                712 posts since
                May 25, 2010
                Currently Being Moderated
                Jul 26, 2011 9:19 AM (in response to Nick_Mattocks)
                Re: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                IMG_4798.JPGIMG_4799.JPGIMG_4800.JPGIMG_4801.JPG

                • Nick_Mattocks Best of the Best
                  Nick_Mattocks
                  9,065 posts since
                  Mar 26, 2007
                  Currently Being Moderated
                  Aug 31, 2011 10:01 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                  Re: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                  Ed

                   

                  That switch doesn't look like mine from the angle of the pictures, but on reflection I'd say yours has the new switch and mine has the same type from these pics.

                   

                  Thanks for posting them

                   

                  Nick

                  • ozbadman Gear Head
                    ozbadman
                    1,474 posts since
                    Apr 17, 2008
                    Currently Being Moderated
                    Jul 26, 2011 4:03 PM (in response to Nick_Mattocks)
                    Re: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                    I have one of the first JTVs. It came with the original bad switch, which has since been replaced. The switch in these images is indeed the new switch. The older switch takes up mode of the cavity and the switch blades are visible.

                     

                    So, if you are having problems with this switch, one presumes it's the flux issue.

                     

                    Nick, Line 6 originally said that not all of the original switches caused problem, so you may have one of the OK-for-now ones. That being said, the probelms with the original switch didn't show up on my 59 until I actively tried to make it fail. I did this by powering it from the battery (instead of the XPS-AB), then just left it in model mode with the volume up, and a cable plugged in. I came back an hour or so later. The battery was down to 3 LEDS. I tried playing it and switching and sure enough, it was randomly switching between models. Up to that point, I'd only left it in model mode for about 30 minutes at a time.

                     

                    Here's a photo of the original switch...

                    Attachments:
                    • Nick_Mattocks Best of the Best
                      Nick_Mattocks
                      9,065 posts since
                      Mar 26, 2007
                      Currently Being Moderated
                      Aug 31, 2011 10:04 AM (in response to ozbadman)
                      Re: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                      Thanks David

                       

                      Hmmmm.... I saw those pics from way back when you first posted them.   My switch initially looked like an in-betweenie as it is the same sort of size as yours but with circuit boards at the sides and a couple of micro-switches that are activated by the action of the 'leaves' of what I assume is the analogue switch pressing on them on there but having looked again and taken the angle of the pictures into account it does in fact look like Eddie's switch after all

                       

                      Nick

                      • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                        edstar1960
                        712 posts since
                        May 25, 2010
                        Currently Being Moderated
                        Jul 27, 2011 1:22 AM (in response to Nick_Mattocks)
                        Re: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                        Thanks for your responses both Nick and David.

                         

                        At least I know that I have the new switch.  I am not sure if I did encounter the flux issue simply because it rectified itself whilst I was still using it and I thought that once the flux issue kicked in that it was constant until the guitar had been powered off and had a chance to cool down, and then it would be OK until it heated up again.

                         

                        Anyway - I need to try to reproduce this to see if I need to get it sent back and fixed - I usually use my X3L for patch switching so I will just have to sit and play the guitar and swap patches with the switch to see whether it kicks in again - will also have to try leaving it powered on for over 30 mins and coming back to it to see if that triggers it.

                         

                        Also - if Line6 support want to chime in then I would love to hear their opinions too.

                         

                        If I can reproduce it then I will contact my dealer to arrange repair.

                        • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                          edstar1960
                          712 posts since
                          May 25, 2010
                          Currently Being Moderated
                          Jul 27, 2011 7:48 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                          Re: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                          I reproduced the problem today.

                           

                          I was using it on battery - which had 3 lights when I checked its status - I put it in MODEL model mode, moved the pickup selector switch to the DOWN position (which would be bridge PU in mag mode) - and then I played for about 30 minutes, mainly on the same model bank selection but trying out different ALT TUNINGs,  when suddenly the sound went all intermittent and crackling, almost like my lead had gone bad.  There was a distinct pop sound in between the sound coming and going very rapidly, which is the sound you hear when changing models normally.  When I moved the pickup selector back to the middle pickup the sound was fine.  When I moved it to the UP position (neck) then it went crazy again with the intermittent sounds, same thing when I moved it back to the DOWN (bridge) position, and same thing if I used either position with the ALT TUNE knob pressed down, or if I tried a different model bank. The only position which sounded OK was the middle position.

                           

                          So, I switched it out of MODEL mode, and unplugged it and then plugged it back in and switched it back into MODEL mode and that fixed it. Everything went back to normal. So I will check back on it in a while to see if it has gone crazy again.

                           

                          So now I have experienced this issue with both the VDI connected to X3L and on battery power. I will be contacting my dealer to organise a return and repair,

                          • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                            edstar1960
                            712 posts since
                            May 25, 2010
                            Currently Being Moderated
                            Jul 29, 2011 6:49 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                            Re: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                            Interestingly enough, I have not been able to recreate the problem again with the battery or whilst connected to the X3L.  I have used the guitar several times for longer than an hour at a time, leaving the switch in the down positiion mainly, and sometimes swapping positions but it has not gone wrong again.

                             

                            Do you think it has miraculously fixed itself or do you think I should still send it in and get it checked out and repaired?

                            • Nick_Mattocks Best of the Best
                              Nick_Mattocks
                              9,065 posts since
                              Mar 26, 2007
                              Currently Being Moderated
                              Jul 29, 2011 9:02 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                              Re: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                              Mine is now playing up too :-(  Bah!

                               

                              It's a different switch design to yours but it's mostly stuck on one setting - position 5, which means I can at least switch between positions 4 and 5 on the guitar using the Alt Tuning push button switch and of course I can switch via the POD HD500.   It sometimes behaves normally for a while and then sticks.  

                               

                              Yours has the new switch and shouldn't behave this way at all.  Personally, if it's done it more than once, and it has, I would not feel comfortable about trusting it in a performance situation.   Yours may be experiencing the flux problem that Rich mentioned a few months ago I guess - unless it's something else.

                               

                              I'm going to need to get mine fixed as well - so you're not on your own.....

                              • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                                edstar1960
                                712 posts since
                                May 25, 2010
                                Currently Being Moderated
                                Jul 31, 2011 3:51 AM (in response to Nick_Mattocks)
                                Re: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                                Hi Nick,

                                 

                                Sorry to hear that yours is playing up too.  Hope you get it sorted!  Did you read about Stuart Mcleod's experience?  See thread http://line6.com/support/message/302297#302297

                                 

                                Sounds identical to the situation for Paul from Thailand.  Not sure if Stuart had the old style switch or not, but I am a bit concerned about sending mine back in now - but as I am in the UK and its under warranty, my dealer will sort out the shipping - so it will just be very inconvenient if I have to return it several times.  Plus, I am really enjoying playing it and don't really  want to part with it - even for a few weeks - but I also want to ensure that any issues get resolved while its under warranty so realise its best to get it dealt with now.

                                 

                                Anyway - best of luck - and hope you get your switch sorted without any issues.

                                 

                                Best Regards


                                Eddie

                                
                            • ozbadman Gear Head
                              ozbadman
                              1,474 posts since
                              Apr 17, 2008
                              Currently Being Moderated
                              Jul 29, 2011 8:38 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                              Re: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                              If it's the flux issue it'll probably be intermittent. I'd probably get it repaired anyway and hopefully they'll clean up any soldering/flux issues.

  • Line6Don Line 6 Support
    Line6Don
    5,275 posts since
    Mar 14, 2011
    Currently Being Moderated
    Jul 29, 2011 11:05 AM (in response to edstar1960)
    RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

    Hey edstar1960,

       

      I have created a support ticket for you regarding this situation.  A support ticket allows you to directly correspond with a Line 6 Support Representative. An email will be sent to you from Line 6 containing a link if a Line 6 support representative determines that a ticket is necessary to troubleshoot your issue. Please follow the link in the email to view your open ticket to work one on one with Line 6 Support.

       

      http://line6.com/account/tickets/view/

    • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
      edstar1960
      712 posts since
      May 25, 2010
      Currently Being Moderated
      Jul 31, 2011 3:56 AM (in response to Line6Don)
      Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

      Hi Line6Don.

       

      Thanks very much for raising a ticket for me.

       

      I have also contacted my retailer and I am arranging for them to collect the guitar and return it to Line6 for repair.  I am a little concerned that it has only happened twice and I have not been able to recreate the issue, and I don't want it to come back worse than it went, as has been reported by a couple of people on the forum. But I also don't want this to come back and bite me when its out of warranty so think its best to get it checked out and repaired now.

       

      Best Regards

       

      Eddie

  • Line6ChrisN Line 6 Support
    Line6ChrisN
    Currently Being Moderated
    Aug 1, 2011 2:31 AM (in response to edstar1960)
    RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

    Chris,

       

      Please organise this coming back for repair - the 3 way switch needs either cleaning or replacing (depending on how bad it is).

       

      Thanks

       

  • Line6Don Line 6 Support
    Line6Don
    5,275 posts since
    Mar 14, 2011
    Currently Being Moderated
    Aug 1, 2011 3:05 PM (in response to edstar1960)
    RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

    Hey edstar1960,

       

      I would continue to correspond with Line 6 UK as they have your guitar now. Contact the dealer as needed regarding the shipping and receiving of guitar from Line 6 UK.

  • Line6ChrisN Line 6 Support
    Line6ChrisN
    Currently Being Moderated
    Aug 4, 2011 2:46 AM (in response to edstar1960)
    RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

    The user needs to go back through the stor efor repair.

  • Line6Don Line 6 Support
    Line6Don
    5,275 posts since
    Mar 14, 2011
    Currently Being Moderated
    Aug 8, 2011 10:22 AM (in response to edstar1960)
    RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

    Hey edstar1960,

       

      You are very welcome. Keep us updated.

       

      Thank you.

    • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
      edstar1960
      712 posts since
      May 25, 2010
      Currently Being Moderated
      Aug 12, 2011 6:05 AM (in response to Line6Don)
      Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

      Hi guys,

      I chased my dealer for an update as Line6-UK have had my guitar for about 1 week now - and my dealer tells me that they have not received any news from Lin6 either but they will chase up and get back to me by Monday 15th Aug.

      I understood that if it was a switch exchange or switch repair that it was only about a 5 minute job so I don't understand why there has been no news from Line6-UK.

      Is it possible for one of you guys to find out what has happened to my guitar and get a status update from Line6-UK for me?

      Thanks very much.

      Best Regards

      Eddie

      • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
        edstar1960
        712 posts since
        May 25, 2010
        Currently Being Moderated
        Aug 22, 2011 12:57 AM (in response to edstar1960)
        Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

        Latest news.

        I chased up my dealer on 15th August and he got back to me on the 16th August with an update from Line6. Essentially Line6 were waiting on the replacement part to fix my guitar, that part was due in at the end of the week (19th Aug or early following week commencing 22nd Aug), the part that needs to be replaced is apparently the "user interface", and my dealer does not know if that means the switch or some circuit board or something else.

        Considering Line6 have had my guitar since 5th Aug, I am very disappointed, having had to wait for the guitar 9 months to start with, and then sending it back for what I hoped was just going to be a quick switch repair, I now find myself without it from 2nd Aug (when it got collected for repair) until now 22 Aug (that's 20 days so far) and of course I don't know exactly when I will get it back, but I hope it will be by the end of this week, which will mean 25 days in total if I get it back on Friday.    

        I hope I will get it back by then and that it will be in 100% perfect working order, and I hope I get a detailed repair report and find out that it wwas a more major repair then just tidying up some flux on the switch. Fingers crossed that all will be well. Hope I did the right thing sending it back - can't believe it has taken so long - that's one whole month out of my 12 month warranty period where I have not been able to play it! 

        Cheers

        Eddie

        • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
          edstar1960
          712 posts since
          May 25, 2010
          Currently Being Moderated
          Aug 25, 2011 4:51 AM (in response to edstar1960)
          Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

          Latest news.  JTV59 was due to be delivered back to me today but unfortunately courier did not get it to my dealer yesterday - however it has arrived this morning and my dealer has dispatched it to me - so it should be back in my hands tomorrow.  I will report back then.

          • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
            edstar1960
            712 posts since
            May 25, 2010
            Currently Being Moderated
            Aug 26, 2011 9:48 AM (in response to edstar1960)
            Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

            JTV59 BLK arrived back about 90 minutes ago. I was so excited to have it back. .  The repair report simply stated "Replaced complete user interface assy." . Got it out and plugged it in to my HD500 and was trying out different models with different HD500 factory presets and also different tunings. I thought that the alt tuning open D did not sound as good as I remembered and that the low E seemed to have a warble,   but then as I was just about to dismiss it as just me, I noticed what appeared to be a drop out of sound and then it came back in -  thought I had imagined it but no a few mins later back it came and regular this time - I was in modelling mode, the pickup selector switch was down and I was in OPEN D on alt tuning and sure enough it was the old problem back again, slowly at first and then it seemed to get faster - fine when it was in middle position but when switch up or down it was rotating through the models and it seemed genuinely random now - as I was in Lester Bank but I definitely heard acoustic sounds as it cut in and out.  This sounds just like what happened to Stuart Mcleod who sent his JTV59 back to have switch replaced and got it back in worse condition then it was sent and then decided to bail and get a completely different guitar.  So as I had originally feared, I have now got a repaired guitar that is in worse condition (electronically) then the one I sent off for repair !!   What is going on Line6?  You have had my guitar for 3 weeks and you send it back to me more faulty then when I sent it in!  

             

            I called my dealer immediately to report the failed repair and he told me that he had just received delivery of a whole lot of JTV59's in every colour so he could offer me a replacement now rather than another repair - so I reminded him that I had originally ordered the CSB and he then said sorry but they are all already taken with pre-orders but I have a TSB or 3 BLK for you to choose from.  Talk about rubbing salt in the wound - if I had not accepted the BLK one a couple of months ago then I would be getting my original CSB now - but I still can't have it as they have sold them to other customers.  Anyway - good news that I can get a replacement  but will it be any better than the one I already have?  Will it still have this mysterious fault which was apparently repaired by replacing the entire user interface assembly and rigorously tested by Line6 - yet when I get it back it exhibits the original fault more badly than my original user interace did. 

             

            I absolutely love this guitar and I want one that works 100% reliably but I don't know whether to perservere with my original and wait for it t be repaired or start over and get a replacement that may or may not go wrong. Whatever happens, nothing can be put into action until Tuesday after the holiday on Monday - so the earliest that I can get a replacement will be Wednesday - so meanwhile I can think on whether I would prefer the TSB or another BLK one. Certainly the replacement option appeals as at least I will have one to play as long as it does not go wrong and as long as it is as nice as the one I already have!

             

            I am extremely disappointed - I really hoped that this would not occur.      But maybe I will be better off with a new replacement - here's hoping! 

            • Nick_Mattocks Best of the Best
              Nick_Mattocks
              9,065 posts since
              Mar 26, 2007
              Currently Being Moderated
              Aug 26, 2011 11:57 AM (in response to edstar1960)
              Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

              Eddie

               

              I'm so sorry to hear that the problem has not been resolved particularly as it has been away for quite a while.  I don't really know what to say, except I completely sympathise with the way you must be feeling right now.  You must be well and truly gutted.

               

              As you are handling this issue through your dealer and you are in the UK they have a responsibility to you to get this resolved, get you a replacement or give you a refund. 

               

              Ultimately the decision to stick with what you have, get it replaced or have a refund is up to you obviously.  

               

              I don't know how close you are to your dealer in miles but if it were feasible I think I would pay them a visit to check out what they have and make any decision based on what you find.  BUT that's possibly not practical or convenient for you, so is just a thought if you were so inclined.

               

              I think I would seriously consider the replacement option.

               

              I'm really gutted for you.

               

              Here's hoping you get a good and rapid outcome soon.   

               

              All the best

               

              Nick

              • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                edstar1960
                712 posts since
                May 25, 2010
                Currently Being Moderated
                Aug 28, 2011 3:24 AM (in response to Nick_Mattocks)
                Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                Thanks for the kind words Nick.  Good suggestions, unfortunately dealer is at least 5 hours drive from me, so will have to stick with courier correspondence.  I know I will be taken care of, it's just frustrating after such a long initial wait, then not getting my initial colour choice, then finding it was faulty, then sending it back for repair which took 3.5 weeks, only to get it back with the same fault even though the complete user interface assembly has been replaced.

                 

                I don't understand how this could have happened. It's also frustrating because other than this one fault the guitar is fantastic. It works flawlessly with my X3L controlling the patch changes but if I ever need to manually change my guitar patch with the switch I won't know whether this glitch will suddenly manifest itself, or whether the glitch will become permament at some point and the switch will become unusable for manual adjustment while in model mode.

                 

                I think I will opt for the replacement and probably go for the TSB and hope that a newer production model will be completely error free.  I know I will be looked after by my dealer and plenty of people have vouched for Line6 and although this repair surprisingly did not resolve the issue, I am sure they will perservere and resolve it to my satisfaction - it's just that I don't want to be waiting 3-4 weeks each time it has to go back which obviously is eating up my inital 12 month warranty.

                 

                I will keep you updated, I love the guitar and I will have to get over these hurdles to get a 100% reliable one.

                 

                Best Regards

                Eddie

                • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                  edstar1960
                  712 posts since
                  May 25, 2010
                  Currently Being Moderated
                  Sep 1, 2011 8:46 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                  Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                  OK - so the replacement JTV59 TSB arrived yesterday and the JTV59-BLK was collected for return.

                   

                  Straight out of the box the TSB was flawless - beautiful finish - almost perfectly set up, intonation slightly out but just needs bridge moving back and a few saddles adjusting, action as low as it can be before it will buzz, and it feels great.

                  Plugged it in via VDI to my POD HD500 and here's where the problems start.

                  1) With mags selected I get a pulsing "shhh shhh shhh" noise which is particularly noticable on HD500 factory preset "Canterbury Lead" but it can also be heard on clean settings. This is punctuated by rustling or crackling sounds. Also sounds like a bad earth as there is a background hum which disappears if I touch the strings or bridge. This background noise is quieter when guitar held in normal playing position but gets very noisy when guitar laid face down on my lap, and back plate of switch cavity very sensitive to touch to and the noise will vary as I touch it.

                  2) Models have problems when using positions 2 and 4 on Custom1, Spank, Chime, Acoustic, Reso and Custom2 - background hiss and noise - particularly bad for Acoustic 12 string settings. On Custom2 pos 4 this was a high pitched whine with an untuned radio type of sound - almost like an old steam kettle just about to come to the boil and start whistling.

                  3) After a while checking out the different settings the now familiar random model changing when switch is in position 1 or 5, 2 or 4 kicked in - characterised by intermittent sound, which is actually it stepping through models.

                  4) After some more checking of different settings the other familiar model stuck in position 3 fault kicked in. Yep - no matter where the toggle switch was positioned, it would only play model assigned to position 3.

                  5) It actually intermittently moved from random switching to working to stuck in pos 3.

                   

                  Also tried using my old A/B box and TRS power supply and to a slightly lesser extent all the above errors occurred.

                   

                  I actually prefer the TSB - it looks much more exclusive IIMHO, and it actually feels slightly nicer to play than my original - however - as far as electronics are concerned it's a disaster in comparison to my previous one.

                   

                  I have spoken to Line6 UK directly who have apologised profusely about this but say that they need to see the guitar in order to work out what is wrong and repair it - so I have no choice but to send this new replacement off again and be without it for possibly another 2 weeks.

                   

                  I spoke to my dealer too and he does not have another TSB to send me, but he could send me another new BLK one - but I prefer the TSB looks, and anyway there is no guarantee that the BLK one will work any better than the TSB did as far as the electronics go.  Maybe I should have hung on to my orignal BLK one - as that only showed the random model switch problem on 3 occasions - but this new one has a catalog of issues.

                   

                  Anyway - bottom line is that the new TSB is going back via my dealer to Line6 UK who have assured me they will give it high priority and get it resolved ASAP.

                   

                  Here's hoping .............   

            • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
              edstar1960
              712 posts since
              May 25, 2010
              Currently Being Moderated
              Sep 2, 2011 9:30 AM (in response to edstar1960)
              Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

              Just for clarification on the original JTV59-BLK that had its "user interface assembly" replaced. The "user interface assembly" is everything the user needs to interact with the modelling side of the guitar EXCLUDING the switch. So its the MODEL and ALT-TUNE pots and associated parts but it is not the switch. The JTV59-BLK did have it's switch cleaned but it was not replaced.  So it was returned with new MODEL and ALT-TUNE pots etc but the original (but cleaned) switch. That explains why the original problem re-appeared and pretty much ties it down to the switch being at fault. Maybe it needed a more thorough clean or maybe something else is at play and a completely new switch is needed - anyway this guitar is also on its way back to Line6 UK for investigation.

              • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                edstar1960
                712 posts since
                May 25, 2010
                Currently Being Moderated
                Sep 5, 2011 5:10 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                Also, I forgot to mention that the replacement JTV - the TSB - came with what appears to be an inferior quality gig bag to the original - a slightly paler colour, material seems more flimsy, zip was not stitched to body for entrie length, side support flops out through zip when opened, doesn't seem quite as padded. Maybe they have changed suppliers? Anyway - on top of all the other issues this does seem insignificant - but it does add insult to injury - faulty guitar and apparently cheaper gig bag.  Hopefully, I can get it replaced with one of same quality as the original.  

                • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                  edstar1960
                  712 posts since
                  May 25, 2010
                  Currently Being Moderated
                  Sep 8, 2011 8:25 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                  Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                  The latest news on my JTV59-TSB - Line6 UK have got it and are currently replacing the electronics, ie: the user interface assenbly, and they have a batch of brand new switches on their way from the far east which should arrive in the next couple of days and when they do, they will then replace the switch with a completely new one. If all goes well, I should hopefully have it back in 100% working condition by next Wednesday or soon after which will mean just under a 2 week turn around. Fingers crossed! 

                  • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                    edstar1960
                    712 posts since
                    May 25, 2010
                    Currently Being Moderated
                    Sep 13, 2011 8:33 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                    Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                    Unfortunately the replacement switches have not arrived yet - they are hoping to get them tomorrow (Weds 14 Sep) and if they do then there is still a chance I may get it back by Friday 16 Sep which will mean 2 weeks elapsed. 

                    • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                      edstar1960
                      712 posts since
                      May 25, 2010
                      Currently Being Moderated
                      Sep 15, 2011 3:46 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                      Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                      Called Line6 UK for update today - Thu 15 Sep - switches have still not arrived although they are expected today or tomorrow - they have taken my number and will call me to let me know when there is an update on the status.

                       

                      So my guitar has had all the other repairs completed last week and has since been sitting around waiting for the new switch for 1 week now.  Apologies once again and frustration all round.  Unfortunately we have no choice but to wait.

                      • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                        edstar1960
                        712 posts since
                        May 25, 2010
                        Currently Being Moderated
                        Sep 15, 2011 9:07 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                        Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                        Great news! Line6 called - the switch did arrive today and its been fitted and guitar tested and all works as expected with no noise. Gig bag has been replaced as mine did have faulty zip. Unfortunately they have missed courier today but it will be shipped back to me tomorrow which means I should get it on Monday 19 Sep. 

                        • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                          edstar1960
                          712 posts since
                          May 25, 2010
                          Currently Being Moderated
                          Sep 20, 2011 3:13 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                          Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                          After two weeks and some great customer service from Line6 UK, finally got guitar back yesterday afternoon. (Mon 19 Sep).

                           

                          Unfortunately, not good news.  Issues:

                           

                          1) TONE knob scratched

                          2) Small indentations in body work next to rim of VOLUME and TONE knobs

                          3) Bad earth still present when using mags - via VDI and via 1/4 inch jack

                          4) Bad noise (like radio interference with squeals and pops) when using CHIME/ACOUSTIC/CUSTOM2 models in the alternate switch positions (ie: when ALT TUNE knob is pressed) - this also occurs to a lesser extent for the RESO bank.

                           

                          It's too early to say whether the switch issue has been fixed but it has been operating correctly so far.

                           

                          Testing for the above carried out using X3L and HD500 using a new patch, with NO EFFECTs and NO AMPs selected, monitoring on HEADPHONES with MASTER VOLUME on MAX.  First tried connecting with 1/4 inch jack only (no battery in guitar) - so could only hear mags - did not playbut just listened - obvious earth buzz - when I touched the strings it was reduced significantly but not removed. Tried the same test with Fender Telecaster Specal FMT HH (with Seymour Duncan humbuckers) and it was completely silent. Conclusion - JTV59 mags have bad earth!  I then tried connecting via VDI through same patch with NO EFFECTs and NO AMPS and coulc clearly hear radio interfence noise when I engaged the alternate switch positions for CHIME/ACOUSTIC/CUSTOM2 banks and to a lesser extent RESO. Tried the same test with my V700 - no such noise. Conclusion - the JTV59 has some faulty electronic component that sounds like it is failing.

                           

                          Called Line6 and discussed issues and they will be taking guitar back to look at again. They have asked if I can send them in a recording of the sounds, which I will do later today.

                           

                          Not happy.  But what can I do?  I have to go down this road if I want a working JTV.

                          
                          • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                            edstar1960
                            712 posts since
                            May 25, 2010
                            Currently Being Moderated
                            Sep 20, 2011 12:37 PM (in response to edstar1960)
                            Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                            Update:  When I tried recording the noises from the JTV59, I discovered that the bad earth sound disappeared when I connected the POD HD500 via the USB to my PC, and the radio interference noises were still there but only just audible.

                             

                            I have managed to record the radio interference noise but not the bad earth sound using this method.

                             

                            However, when I monitor JTV59 connected to the POD HD500 sound stand alone (ie: not connected to an amp or a PC) with just the headphones then I clearly hear the bad earth sound and the radio interference noises.

                             

                            I need to try it connected to an amp and mixer both direct and via the POD HD500 to see what happens then.

                            • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                              edstar1960
                              712 posts since
                              May 25, 2010
                              Currently Being Moderated
                              Sep 21, 2011 2:42 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                              Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                              More test results using a Guitar Amp and an active PA speaker with a variety of connections:

                              First testing the earth hum with the mag pu's:

                              1/4 inch jack direct to guitar amp   - slight earth hum with JTV, can hear it grounding when touching strings or bridge, however, with standard guitar with humbuckers no noise whatsoever

                              1/4 inch jack to HD500 then XLR to active PA speaker - no noise with standard guitar, and no discernible noise from JTV
                              1/4 inch jack to HD500 then 1/4 inch jack to guitar amp - no noise with standard guitar, slight earth hum which you can hear being grounded when touching strings or bridge wwith JTV

                              JTV with VDI to HD500 and XLR to active PA speaker - no noise from mags on JTV
                              JTV with VDI to HD500 and 1/4 inch jack to guitar amp - no noise from mags on JTV
                              JTV via TRS cable to A/B box to HD500 and XLR to PA speaker - no noise from mags on JTV
                              JTV via TRS cable to A/B box to HD500 and 1/4 inch jack to guitar amp - no noise from mags on JTV

                              Next testing the radio interference noise from the specific model settings:

                              JTV via TRS cable to A/B box to HD500 and XLR to PA speaker - radio interference noise present on affected model presets
                              JTV via TRS cable to A/B box to HD500 and 1/4 inch jack to guitar amp - obvious radio interference noise present on affected model presets

                              JTV with VDI to HD500 and XLR to active PA speaker - radio interferenece noise present on affected model presets
                              JTV with VDI to HD500 and 1/4 inch jack to guitar amp - obvious radio interference noise present on affected model presets

                              
                              • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                                edstar1960
                                712 posts since
                                May 25, 2010
                                Currently Being Moderated
                                Sep 23, 2011 11:19 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                                Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                                Tested using battery to power guitar.  1/4" jack straight into combo amp. Earth buzz can be heard when amp on about half volume and I touch bridge. All radio interference noises can also be heard when switching into modelling mode, pressing alt tune for the alternative switch positions, and moving to CHIME/ACOUSTIC/RESO/CUSTOM2 banks and selecting the UP and DOWN (2 and 4) toggle switch positions.  Custom2 position 4 is particularly lively and is audible when amp volume is only on about 2.

                                 

                                At normal playing volumes the earth buzz will not be an issue, but I don't believe it should be there.

                                The radio interference noises are particularly loud on the ACOUSTIC 12 Strings (pos 2 and 4) and the CUSTOM2 pos 2 and 4. And CUSTOM2 pos 4 particularly is very audible and not overlooked when playing, whereas the ACOUSTIC 12 string models, you need to be not playing to spot it.

                                 

                                Line6 UK have not been able to reproduce the reported errors on the JTVs they have available so they believe there is a problem with my specific guitar.  A replacement is the likely option.

                                • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                                  edstar1960
                                  712 posts since
                                  May 25, 2010
                                  Currently Being Moderated
                                  Sep 23, 2011 11:39 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                                  Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                                  Also noted that while using battery powered JTV direct to combo amp via 1/4" jack that when I swapped from mags to modelling mode that the models produced just as much background noise, if not more, than the mags. I didn't expect that and it is not the case when using the JTV with the VDI into X3L or HD500 - in those instances the mags are noisy and the models are almost silent, apart from the ones I have identified that produce radio interference noise.

                                  • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                                    edstar1960
                                    712 posts since
                                    May 25, 2010
                                    Currently Being Moderated
                                    Sep 29, 2011 3:56 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                                    Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                                    Just so everyone can hear some of the problems that I have experienced, here are two MP3 files, one showing the noise from the mags using VDI in comparison to the mags via 1/4" and also the Lester Bridge model. It is the third sample in the recording that shows the noise from the mags via VDI.  JTV-X3L-batt.vdi.mp3: Sample 1 - mags via 1/4" jack with battery Sample 2 - lester bridge model via 1/4" with battery Sample 3 - mags via VDI (noise!) Sample 4 - lester bridge model via VDI

                                     

                                    And also a recording of the other weird noises (radio interference type sound), I get on the CHIME/ACOUSTIC/CUSTOM2 banks.

                                     

                                    JTV-batt-model-noise.mp3 shows factory default models positions 1 to 5 for each CHIME/ACOUSTIC/RESO/CUSTOM2 banks in sequence.  Noise is apparent on CHIME positions 2,4 and ACOUSTIC 2,4, and custom 2,3,4.

                                     

                                    Both recordings made via X3L, each one using the same patch for each sampe (heavy for the mags issue, clean for  the model noise issues) using USB cable to my PC and captured in Guitar Tracks pro without any subsequent editing.

                                    Attachments:
                                    • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                                      edstar1960
                                      712 posts since
                                      May 25, 2010
                                      Currently Being Moderated
                                      Oct 28, 2011 3:11 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                                      Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                                      The weird radio noises are definitely not meant to be there and therefore Line6 have replaced my 59TSB with another one - this one a W1108 - and this new one does not make those noises.  I have yet to try it out fully but I am optimistic that this will be trouble free.

                                       

                                      Thanks very much to Tim at Line6 UK for sorting this out - excellent customer service.

                                      • dylantan Just Startin'
                                        dylantan
                                        168 posts since
                                        May 2, 2008
                                        Currently Being Moderated
                                        Oct 28, 2011 4:31 AM (in response to edstar1960)
                                        Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                                        Wow, you are surely an extremely patient customer!

                                        • edstar1960 Iknowathingortwo
                                          edstar1960
                                          712 posts since
                                          May 25, 2010
                                          Currently Being Moderated
                                          Oct 31, 2011 3:43 AM (in response to dylantan)
                                          Re: RE: JTV-59 switch issue when connected to X3L via VDI

                                          Yes - I am a patient customer - LOL - but also Line6 customer service in the UK have done all they can to get my problems resolved, so they deserve to be commended for that. 

                                           

                                          My replacement 59TSB is fine and does not have any of the issues reported in this thread. 

                                           

                                          The level of hiss from the mags via the VDI connection is now simply the expected level for any JTV and can easily be lived with although I understand Line6 are looking into it and we may be fortunate that they can address it with a future firmware release but it's too early to say yet.

                                           

                                          IMO these are fantastic guitars.  Yes - some of them have had issues but Line6 will resolve those issues under warranty even if it means replacing the guitar (as long as you are in the same country that you purchased it from).  So IMO it is worth giving one a try just to see whether you like it - either in a store or via mail order with a trial period before you need to commit to the purchase. 

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