Scratchy pot
A volume or tone control that produces a crackling noise as it is turned, because its internal track or wiper has become dirty or worn.
The symptom is unmistakable: a burst of static at particular points in the sweep, sometimes with the sound cutting out entirely. Cleaning the track will usually fix a dirty pot, but a pot that rattles at every position or that has lost its taper is worn out and needs replacing. Because replacing a pot means heating its lugs, it is also a common opportunity to repair or upgrade the rest of the wiring while the cavity is open.
Example: A tone knob that crackles halfway through its travel is a scratchy pot.
See also
Related
- PagePotentiometer
- PageContact cleaner
- PageWiring harness
- PageAction gauge
- PageAged finish
- PageBack bow
- PageAaron Dessner
- PageAce Frehley