Mackie 1402-VLZ Pro Troubleshooting

Button gets pressed down, but when depressing it, it gets stuck in the down position for a short time.

The easiest way to fix this is with a contact cleaner. Contact cleaner is a type of solvent specially designed for use on electronics. Spray a small amount on the sides of the button, then repeatedly press and depress the button until it no longer gets stuck.

A part of the button cap may be broken or dislodged in a way that causes the button to act abnormally. The button cap is the plastic piece you push, not the electronic part itself. Replacing this cap is a simple process. [placeholder for guide link]

Output does not sound clear, it may sound fuzzy or slightly distorted.

This is most likely cause by dust or oxidization build up in the slider. The best way to fix this is by using DeoxIT F-Series or a similar product. This are made specifically for cleaning faders and similar parts. Spray a small amount through the length of the fader, then move the fader up and down to clean debris. Note that if you are using DeoxIT, you should make sure that you are only using DeoxIT F-series, as other types of DeoxIT can leave behind a thin film when drying, which can further damage the fader.

The metal tab underneath the plastic fader cap is bent. This can happen when too much sideways pressure is applied to the fader. Fixing this yourself is fairly simple. Use this guide to learn how to realign the fader tab. [placeholder for guide link]

XLR ports, male and female, output scratchy sound, or sometimes no sound at all.

While its possible that this could be caused by the cable, its most likely a problem with the port. Over time dust, dirt, and other debris can build up. The easiest way to clean them is with electrical contact cleaner and thin cotton pipe cleaners. For the female ports, use the spray straw to spray cleaner into each hole and then around the outside of the connector. After this, use the thin pipe cleaners to scrub the inside of each hole, and the outside of the connector. For male ports, spray a small amount of the cleaner onto the pipe cleaner itself, then scrub around the pins and edge of the connector.

While its not recommended, it is possible to realign the pins in a male XLR jack with a pair of needle pliers. The safer and more effective option is to replace the port altogether. [placeholder for guide link]

The effect certain knobs have on the track is inconsistent.

The knobs work by spinning a potentiometer that effects the track. The plastic that ensures the potentiometer spins properly can wear down over time, causing points where the knob can be spun slightly without effecting the track. Fixing this is just a matter of ordering a replacement knob. Knobs can be removed easily by pulling lightly upwards.

If the mixer or knob has not been used for a while, its possible that there is dust or dirt inside of the potentiometer. This can be cleaned out by using DeoxIT or a similar product. First, remove the plastic knob, then spray a small amount of cleaner at the base of the potentiometer, and slowly turn it to clean it out.