Model 12 earthing problem

[antonspon]

I recently purchased a Model 12 mixer so I'm still on a learning curve with it. However, I've been worried about the fact that the unit isn't earthed - I know from a safety aspect the voltages involved aren't dangerous, but there is an unpleasant sensation when I touch the metal parts while it's plugged in. Also, my electric bass gives me small shocks/tingles when I touch the strings while it is plugged into the Tascam. Can the unit be earthed in any way, or does anyone have an alternative solution? Thanks!

 

[Phil Tipping]

Welcome to the forum. I have the same problem with the DP-32SD. It seems a common problem with external power adapters - I have several which all 'leak' to varying degrees. I guess the official health & safety response is to replace the adapter, but you may get one just as bad, or worse.
I usually just make sure everything is earthed separately if it's an issue. With the DP-32, all the 1/4" jack screens appear to connect to the chassis, so if I plug an external earthed item into *any* socket, the chassis no longer tingles. The external item doesn't have to be switched on.
I've also found people vary in their sensitivity with detecting that tingling sensation (maybe it's how well insulated their shoes are!), and had a lot of trouble in the past convincing them I wasn't making it all up

 

[antonspon]

Thanks, Phil - at least I know I'm not alone! I'll try the externally earthed appliance idea - so far I've only used guitars which are of course floating themselves...

 

[Jonny Madden]

@Phil Tipping, I'm also having this issue with the Model 12 (UK 3 pin plug). You mentioned plugging in an externally earthed appliance - what are some examples of these? Did you mean an amp or something? Thanks!

 

[Phil Tipping]

Yes, any bit of gear which connected to the mains supply with a 3-pin earthed power cord, and has a suitable jack socket used as a line input or output. Obviously connect it to the appropriate spare socket on the Tascam as if you were really going to use the device; output to input or vice versa, although the device doesn't have to be switched on. The reasoning is that most gear internally connects the jack socket sleeve pins to the chassis, so these will also be earthed if the device is plugged into the mains. You could use an external amp or pre-amp, fx unit, mixer etc.

 

[Jonny Madden]

@Phil Tipping, That’s great - I’ve tried it and it works (bass cab line out into channel 9/10). Very strange that we should have to do this though? It’s brand new and should work correctly out of the box? Anyway, thank you so much.

 

[Phil Tipping]

@Jonny Madden That's good news; thanks for the follow-up.
From what I've found, this is a common issue with that type of power supply, but some are better/worse than others. You could try asking Tascam to replace the PSU if it's causing you problems.
Keep us posted.