volume spike? and hum problem!!

[s_m_hendrix]

Hey guys.. let me start buy sayin.. Im a newbie to this recording world.. but im climbing the learning curve..
I own a BR-1200cd.. and run my axe through a POD, well a flextone 2... its a pod combo.. my first problem is a hum.. When i run the DI, XLR from it into the recorder i get a less then nice hum.. i flicked the ground/lift switch.. it suomewhat helped but not 100%.. when i touch the lead.. it goes away even more... shit lead???

2.. If i go say from guitar track 1... and it ends where guitar track 2 starts... i get a quick but definite volume spike and the meter goes threw the roof briefly.... whats the deal???

Any and all help is much appreciated, thanx

Shannon