gmacleod15
12 posts
Oct 24, 2009
12:15 PM
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I have a loose wire inside my Green Bullet 520DX. I need to remove the volume pot to make the repair.
Looks like I have to remove the adjusting knob first somehow. Any experts out there that want to offer some advice on how I should procede (without using a hammer).
I tried just pulling up on the knob but it doesn't seem to want to move.
Glenn
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Kingley
466 posts
Oct 24, 2009
12:26 PM
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It's been a while since I have seen a 520DX.
But if I recall correctly, there is a tiny grub screw on the volume control. You'll need to loosen that first. Once that is loosened then it should just slide off.
Then there will be a nut to remove to allow you to push the volume pot up into the shell to enable you to work on it, once you have removed the grill of course.
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gmacleod15
13 posts
Oct 24, 2009
12:48 PM
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Kingley
Thanks for the quick reply however there is no visible screw on the knob. The knob is encased in black rubber with a top plastic cap that has the position line on it. Maybe this cap has to come off but I don't want to pry to hard on it yet.
Glenn
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Kingley
468 posts
Oct 24, 2009
1:07 PM
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Ah right ok. That sounds familiar.
You should be ok to get a little blade or flat screwdriver (maybe even some pliers) and levering off the black rubber knob.
But be gentle you wouldn't want to damage anything.
If you have any doubts though, my best suggestion would be to shoot Greg Heumann (www.blowsmeaway.com) or Dave Kott (www.greenbulletmics.com) an email an ask their advice.
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gmacleod15
14 posts
Oct 25, 2009
11:12 AM
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Kingley
Prying off with the small screwdriver worked. After a bit of soldering I'm back in business. Makes me think I should buy another mic for backup...a boy can't have too many toys.
Must say that where the cable enters the mic shell seems to be a weak spot for trouble.
G
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Kingley
473 posts
Oct 25, 2009
11:39 AM
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Great stuff! I'm glad you got it working again.
Yes that spot where the cable enters is pretty weak. I would recommend replacing it with an old style screw on connector. They are easy enough to fit.
You can find them cheap on ebay. Then all you need is the 1/4" jack connector (also available on ebay) then you'll have a really good reliable mic.
Here's the details of the parts.
target="_blank">Screw on Connector
target="_blank">1/4" Connector
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gmacleod15
15 posts
Oct 25, 2009
3:19 PM
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Thanks for the links. Next time I think I might make the change.
G
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Greg Heumann
150 posts
Oct 25, 2009
9:27 PM
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" I would recommend replacing it with an old style screw on connector. They are easy enough to fit."
I agree that fitting a screw on connector is the right way to avoid the eventual internal cable failure that all 520's eventually experience - makes the mic much more convenient to use.
But I disagree that "they are easy enough to fit."
On any 520, there is a right and wrong way to install these. I've seen the shafts of the connectors ground down and the connector epoxied in, and/or retained by the original spring relief set screw. Both of these won't last.
A proper way is to enlarge the hole to the proper size, and tap it for the threads of the connector. The cost of a "Q" drill and the right 3/8 tap (not available at any hardware store, by the way) is more than the cost for me or one of the other good mic techs around to install it properly for you. If you want it to look nice you also need to turn off the splines at the top of the connector shaft or the connector won't seat all the way.
Then you'll find the need for a ground connection in the shell. For this you'll need to drill and tap another hole. All this drilling and tapping... how will you hold the shell safely without damaging it. Can't just squeeze it in a vise.
There is no rocket science involved in installing a screw-on connector to a Shure shell. However doing a hack job will reward you with early failure. If you want the job done right invest in the proper tools or send it to someone who has them. I charge $35 for the service.
FYI - On a 520DX, the retaining ring of the female (cable) connector will interfere with the volume knob once it is in place. The volume knob will need to be shaved down. Or, you can jettison the internal control and use an external one.
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/Greg
http://www.BlowsMeAway.com
http://www.BlueStateBand.net
Last Edited by on Oct 25, 2009 9:27 PM
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gmacleod15
16 posts
Oct 26, 2009
6:49 AM
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Greg
Thanks for the advice. I thought there might be some machine work involved. Might be more than I am willing to tackle as it is only for home use and the occasionaly jam session.
Your price sounds reasonalble but I assume you are US based and I'm across the border...all that shipping and customs would make it less afordable.
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