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My DigiTech GSP 5 Won't Light Up

The Digitech GSP 5 is a discontinued multi-effect pre-amp and processor. Part of Digitech's GSP series, the GSP 5 was first produced in 1989 as a rack-mounted unit featuring a range of effects, including distortion, delay and reverb. The front panel has several LEDs that indicate signal input, clipping and channel selection. The LED display is large and characteristic of the technology of the time. There are various issues that cause the display to not illuminate.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Soldering iron
  • Replacement transistors
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Instructions

    • 1

      Troubleshoot the GSP 5 unit. The GSP 5 can be operated without the LED display, but without the display you will not be able to see which settings are engaged. Plug in to the processor and power it up. If the display is partially illuminated or illuminates intermittently, you can rule out a problem in the power section. If the display completely fails to come on, it may be a sign that the power section is failing. With the volume of all other units and amplifiers set low, attempt to play through the processor. If you get sound, you can rule out power section problems. If nothing happens and there is no residual hiss at high volumes, the power section is the likely problem area.

    • 2

      Remove the GSP 5 from the rack mount by unscrewing the screws at each side. Unplug all power connections and outbound cables. Unscrew the rear panel of the unit to expose the processor's interior. Pay attention to the components nearest to where the power cable connects and inspect the interior for damage. A blown out transistor will have a brownish tint to it. Replace any discolored transistors in the power section and try the unit again.

    • 3
      Look out for components that have come loose from the circuit board.

      Unscrew the top panel and inspect the internal processor. Like most digital processors, the Digitech GSP 5 has a printed circuit board. Damage to this board will present operational problems, such as the display failing to light up. Again, if you spot discolored transistors, replace them. If you identify any loose wiring, melt the connection with a soldering iron and reconnect it.

    • 4

      Unscrew the six screws on the front to take off the front panel. If none of these procedures shed any light on the problem, the LED itself may be malfunctioning. The front panel that you just removed contains the LED display. Examine the back of the panel and look for damage to the diodes that form the display. Wipe away any dirt and grime. If any of the diodes are cracked or otherwise broken, this is likely to be the reason that display is failing to light up. Inspect the connecting wire between the processor and the diodes. Reconnect any loose wires.

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