Have you tried the amp with another input just to make sure it's not the problem?

Sounds like the connection on the fiddle. Do you use the same jack for the headphones, or does it have a separate plugin?

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Originally posted by crunchie812

Sounds like the connection on the fiddle. Do you use the same jack for the headphones, or does it have a separate plugin?

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This was my first thought, common break point depending on how well it was soldered.

I can’t say for certain, but it sounds from your description like a problem with the jack. The pickup must be working if you’re getting sound through the headphones. You’ve eliminated the amp input and the cable ( if I understood properly). The wiring on those systems is delicate.

Do you use a pre-amp?

Maybe a break in a wire to the jack somewhere? A shop that has experience with electric violins might be able to sort it out. Or, since it seems like an electrical issue, you might show it to an electrician who works on small appliances.

I know enough not to guess. You need a continuity tester.

It's usually the lead or jack plugs, they get moved around the most.

Bad connections can sometimes be difficult or impossible to identify visually - thats what Ohmmeters are for. Also, sometimes a jack that appears good has an internal mechanical problem (not springy enough or misalignment) that's hard to spot. Also, are the outputs for the amp and headphones taken from the same spot? There may be additional electronics for the amp output that might have developed a problem.
A guitar shop should be able to sort this for you.

You had it figured out though, you said you thought it was a ground (earth) wire ssue!

Uh I did not understand what you said, but I’m glad you didn’t blow your arm off!!!

All kinds of stuff can induce buzzing. From neon lights plugged into the same circuit to poor grounding at the elec. socket to someone revving a car outside nearby. In the US, that 3rd pin is metal, on items that need grounding and polarized juice. If the 2 metals one you have are the same size, you can try flippiing them around, sometimes that helps. Glad you seem to have Einsteined it, buzzes are a PIA!