Odd FX Loop Problem

[ChrisM]

Here is an odd one...
Got a DIY build here with an effects loop. Standard shorting jack and mono jack so when no cable is plugged in the loop is bypassed.

Ok so I plug a cable in from the send to the return and everything is fine as you'd expect. You really have nothing in the loop but a cable.

When I plug a pedal in though the volume drops and the sound gets all fuzzy and distorted. This happens with the pedal in the bypass mode, same thing happens with the pedal engaged.

And yes the pedals are fine I have tried them out front on the input. Battery/PSU are fine in them too. Some pedals are true bypass some are not.


Just an odd quirk I can't figure out....Any ideas?

[KT66]

I think it's just a matter of an impedance mismatch that could be solved by having a buffered external loop, like a d'lator for example, plugged into the send/return jacks.

[Deric]

Just thinking out loud....

Is it possible the jacks are wired backwards (OUT is IN, IN is OUT)?

[Reeltarded]

No way, Deric, 'cause that sounds AWESOME.

(depending on what's patched)