Vibrato "clicking"???

[Diminished Triad]

When I use my vibrato controls on my amp I hear (if they are on) a clicking sound...similar to a quiet metronome. The speed of the clicking corresponds directly to the speed of the vibrato. I have a Fender Vibro-King and its vibrato is made up of two controls, "speed" and "intensity."

I can get the sound of the old jaguar or 60's days using this effect from the Vibro-King, very nice, but there is that annoying and concerning "clicking." I don't think anyone hears it when a guitar is playing or if the band is playing. But it's there. :-(

Is this normal with the vibrato function in amps, or is it just a Fender Vibro-King design, or is something wrong with the amp and if so what can I do to fix it? Have had one friend come by who is a tech and he said some amps have the same sound or problem and I should first check to see if this is part of the design.....if not......he'll "go in" and see what might be causing the problem. Is there a problem or is this just what happens when you turn up vibrato on an amp that has this feature?

Thanks for any info or experience you are able to share!

 

[Funkfingers]

Re: Vibrato "clicking"???

Your amplifier requires minor TLC.

Over the decades, Fender has employed several different onboard vibrato circuits. Many of these involve valve/tube components in the signal path. The unwanted sound could indicate a valve in need of replacement, dirty/corroded contacts somewhere or something more serious.

Obviously, if you are going to inspect the inside of your valve amplifier, follow the normal safety precautions.

One thing to bear in mind is that some vintage Fender vibrato circuits function by affecting the output stage valves. Hence, the valves in possible need of replacement may not be the ones that you expect.

 

[Boogie Bill]

Re: Vibrato "clicking"???

I had this in one of my OLD Fenders. It's broken, probably something minor like a cap. Probably time to take it in.

Bill

 

[Surgeon]

Re: Vibrato "clicking"???

It's usually the lfo (low frequency oscillator) leaking in the signal. Usually shielded wire cures this in pedals, I'm assuming the same could theoretically be implemented in an amp though you have to know what you're looking for while you're in there...

 

[Chickenwings]

Re: Vibrato "clicking"???

they are always doing that. Try replacing the vibrato tube and see if it helps. EH seem to be pretty good in the low noise department.