Fender Super Champ X2 issue? G chords give a "sitar like" sound

Jetsam1

Hi,

Received my new Fender Super Champ X2 and everything is lovely with it apart from one thing. When I play a G chord or a G note on the 6th string at any appreciable volume (about 3-4 upwards) I get this sitar like noise. It's hard to describe but it sounds like a sitar. This is just with G. Is it a problem in the actual amp? Is the speaker unable to cope? Or is this normal and I haven't had a valve amp for so long I have just forgotten.

This is with the amp set to clean with no effects. I have replicated the problem on two different guitars and am happy it' nether the guitars or the cable as I tried it on a second amp at volume.

Disconcerting.....

ICBM

Could be the speaker, a microphonic valve (most likely one of the power valves), or something else loose inside.

Try gently tapping the valves and see if you hear anything. You'll have to take the back panel off but that's simple and safe on these.

Chalky

No it isn't normal. As it's new I would send it back. Or waste a lot of time diagnosing what is resonating, physically or electrically.

Jetsam1

Hi,
I'll have a try this afternoon, just whether it affects the warranty if I do anything myself...........!

Bought from Thomann so easy to return for a replacement I suppose.

Jetsam1

Chalky said:

No it isn't normal. As it's new I would send it back.

Maybe the best course of action thinking about it. If it was used I wouldn't worry about opening it up.

ICBM

See if you can reach around the back of the valve guard without taking it off - you might be able to, I can't remember.

If so, rather than tapping the valves - which will be tricky - try playing the note and see if touching any of the valves stops the buzz.

If not I would send it back.