Fixed my iBasso P2

My iBasso P2 had developed an issue where there volume knob would introduce a bunch of noise (static).  It would typically kick in if I adjusted the volume, and sometimes the noise would stay after I had release the knob.  I'd have to fiddle with it to get it to go away.

I figured probably the solder joints on the pot needed to be re-flowed, so opened it up and took a look, but the joints looked clean, and no amount of playing with the knob introduced the noise after disassembly.

But I noticed a couple of things.  First, some components were not secure -- mainly the two big caps and the battery.  These components seem to bounce around a bit if you tap the board.  It looks like the battery was secured originally with double sticky tape, but it doesn't look like it is working well any longer.

And more interestingly, if you tapped on the caps, it could trigger the noise, and more tapping could stop it.

I decided to put a bit of epoxy on the components to secure things.  It helped, but I could still trigger the noise by tapping on the caps.

So...  Next step, replace the caps.

-john

BEFORE

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OK, so I ordered two Panasonic EEU-FC1C272L 2700uF 16v caps from Digi-Key.com.  I had come across that part# previously which suggested it had exactly the same dimensions as the OEM part.

Part cost $1.23ea., $5.15 shipping (USPS priority) and .72 tax, so $8.33 total.

Got them today, and they are the same height, but fatter than the originals and fatter than the spec.   Luckily, they still fit fine in the case.

Here is the new part next to the removed old part:

New parts, installed:

If you look closely, you can see I epoxied them down and together:

I also put a thin line of epoxy to secure the battery from moving (a little hard to see):

Allowed to dry, re-assembled, and....

... perfect.  No noise at all, no noise if you thump on the case, and sound is perfect.  Good as new.

Yea!

-john