Strings and Fret Buzz

[nutso42]

I was told recently that the string gauge size you use affects your fret buzz, and I was just wondering if there is any truth to this. I ask mainly because on my 5-string bass, I get buzz on the B-string (but no where else) and the string gauge I have is average size.

So, will it stop if I get smaller or larger strings? Or was I just given a bunch of crap?

[heavyfunkmachin]

imho the thing is that lighter strings are lower tension at the same pitch, this lack of stifness may cause that with the same amount of atack on the string the vibration will be wider, therefore causing fretbuzz that might be solved with:
a) lighter touch
b) higher action
c) heavier strings
d) incorporing fretbuzz as your playing trademark

cheers!

[Chasarms]

Originally Posted by heavyfunkmachin

imho the thing is that lighter strings are lower tension at the same pitch, this lack of stifness may cause that with the same amount of atack on the string the vibration will be wider, therefore causing fretbuzz that might be solved with:
a) lighter touch
b) higher action
c) heavier strings
d) incorporing fretbuzz as your playing trademark

cheers!

This is true. In addition, if the bass has been set up for a higher-tension string and you string it with lower tension strings, you are probably aren't going to have enough relief in the neck to prevent buzz without raising the saddles really high.

[Meatrus]

The above post pretty much sums it up. Fret buzz cant really be blamed on strings. Just how the player uses them; hit light gauge as hard as you are used to hitting heavy strings and the lights will buzz much more.

[maturanesa]

first be sure that the buzz you hear is sounding through the amp. Some little buzzes are not percieved by the pickups like the slap´s "clicking"

[tobie]

Originally Posted by nutso42

on my 5-string bass, I get buzz on the B-string (but no where else)

If all else fails, check your technique. I caught myself 'pushing' my lowest string upwards (towards the side of the neck) when fretting it, which caused a buzz. It was fine when I fretted it without changing the string's position.