newbie

[mmike5150]

after lurking around for a while I decided to jump in and test the water in the forum.
I have a japanese 54 RI strat that makes a loud clicking noise through the amp as I touch the strings.
Any tips on what might be causing (and how to fix it) would be gratefully received.
TIA
Mike

[Stratosaurus]

It pops only just as you touch them or is it a constant pop?

Sounds like a ground issue to me. The guys here at tdpri will have good suggestions. My tech skills are mediocre. A great brain to pick is Rob DiStefano (a viable reference, even though I've never personally had a conversation with him).

Edit: Where are my manners? Welcome to the forum.

[Stratosaurus]

Here is a technical description that I found on guitarnuts.com.:

Your body is probably discharging a capacitor. If you are using an isolation capacitor between the signal ground and your bridge ground you may need to place a 220k resistor across it (this usually isn't necessary though). Also, ensure that you didn't accidentally get the capacitor between the jack and signal ground.

[JohnnyCrash]

1. Check the ground connection.

2. If that is good, shield your guitar.

Strats are the WORST with shielding issues!!!

Your fingers "ground" the guitar through the strings and bridge (the grounding wire, usually black, is soldered to the bridge usually on the tremolo claw area).

When you are not touching the strings you may hear a slight hum. Touching the strings grounds the electronics.

Popping and crackling also occurs with static discharge... "static electricity". Shielding will help reduce this... below this post was one by the name of:
"Can't figure out where this popping is coming from!!!!" - this has some links and info on shielding your guit-fiddle.

Finally #3:
Welcome to TDPRI, have fun and learn alot - I know I have :)

[mmike5150]

thanks for the tips, sounds like a week end with the screw drivers and soldering iron!