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Cleaning/Overhauling Old Mixers - Suggestions?
StoreTags: cleaning, tuning, mixers, maintenance
Author: antfactor on September 11 2008
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--> I'm in need of some tech advice. I have a collection of older mixers that have noisy pots and faders with some buz/hum on some channels. They have not been in regular use for a while, but I'd like to clean and re-employ them.

Hunting online revealed DeoxIT® FaderLube Mini Spray, but my local Radioshack has DeoxIT™/ProGold™ Twin Pack. Is it worth ordering/waiting for the FaderLube, or would a 5 min. walk to get the DeoxIT double-pack satisfy my needs. Guessing the former, but any help/advice would be great.

Also, do you think this would necessitate opening these mixers for cleaning properly? Probably... but am deferring to those with more experience than I.

Mixers are: Mackie LM-1602 and 1202. I LOVE the 1602 because it has four(!) effect-sends. Why don't more budget mixers do that??

Much Thanks in Advance!! -ant.
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Comments

Don't know, but would like to know too (my 1604 needs some TLC)

ah, good question.... awaiting good answers...

in the meantime, here is some info from a quick google search.

some dude said: "As a consultant on the road, I see a lot of mixers being taken out of the closets. There are only a few details you need to consider.

Some models of the Tascam line did use some plastics inside the mixer. Mainly behind the pots and for the back side of their connectors. If you feel comfortable to out the back of the mixer, look for light colored plastic covering for pots and fader controls. If you see any, DO NOT use any sprays or cleaners even if it says it is safe for plastics. Using any alcohol or oil or silicone based spray will make the plastic hard, brittle and you will shorten the life of that mixer.

If the plastic is dark gray or black, using a contact cleaner that is safe for plastic can be used.

The best thing to do is just start using it. Test each channel, see what is work and not working. Using chemical for cleaning is generally not a good idea except for the faders.

For the TRS or TR connectors, inserting a connector into each one about 10 times will push out of the way any rust or corrosion. Opening the mixer and trying to clean the contacts is not a good idea unless you’re a professional. You may disturb wires that are not meant to be moved and break the contacts.

For XLR connectors, again, inserting them 3 or 4 times is all you need to do as they have a larger surface area to make a good connection.

The worst case is having a channel or two not working. If that is the case and you can live with it, everything else should be working.

If you find that there is more not work and it is limiting you, then you are better off just getting a new mixer. Repairing any entry level mixer can cost more than a replacement.

Tascam makes good mixers. I still see many of them in churches."

crap. I had no idea Tascam was catho-holic. oh well... what's good enough for 'our lord' is probably good enough for my mixes.

I've researched this pretty well via google already - thus the "more experience than I" part - thanks for the tip though...

i propose you use them 'as is'
it will add character to your performance/recording

Mixers that stands up to the rigors of church use are obviously built like tanks.


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