Different tone on E string - bridge saddle problem?

[jcburn]

Hey all - my E string lacks punch and definition - even on open notes, compared to the other strings. The string even "buzzes" a little bit compared to the other strings with similar action. My bass is an Aria Integra from the 80's and has the standard SB style bridge. Not easily replaced.
Now when I remove the strings the E string saddle is filed deeper than the rest (which are only really a slight notch), and has also become a little "worn" over time.
Could this be the problem? The nut seems to be cut fine and the neck seems true with a tad of relief.
My question is could filing the E saddle a little more fix the problem so that the string sits lower in the saddle and therefore making better contact or do I need to replace the saddle and file just a small notch. I will need to have these saddles made from scratch if thats the answer as these bridges are inpossible to get.
Thanks folks.

[john grey]

How old are the strings? The heavier strings dull quicker with many string designs. I have seen the "E" dull out in as little as 4 weeks with consistent playing, to the degree that it sounded uniquely different than the rest of that set.
Before you do anything to the bridge, I would suggest you try a new set of strings and examine their wear progression and sounding through their usage.

[enricogaletta]

Yes probably your strings are pretty old, otherwise some times happen that brand new strings have some strings already dead.
Plus you should considering to check out your action by truss rod and setting on your bridge.
Cheers. Enrico
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[96tbird]

The string contact patch on the saddle NEED only be just that, just contacting it. The notch should be angled down towards the tail (just like a nut is) so that it is steeper than the string break angle back to the ball end. In other words, if your string breaks at 15 degrees, the notch should be say 17 degrees or more. But looking at say a stock Fender saddle they are round so have a fairly large patch, maybe 2 mm. How big a patch MAY affect the note? Dunno, but I suspect if it's too big it may.

You say the notch has been filed before, maybe too big of a contact patch, sucking up the vibe of the string. If you choose to refile it I would go with a small 2mm or less contact angled off as I describe. Also make sure to front cut it the same way.

What I would do if I were to file the saddle. Look at the contact area and mark the patch with a sharpie. file angles either direction from there leaving the sharpie mark alone. Also make sure the string sides have a hair of room, just so they aren't touching. I may be crazy tho'. Looking forward to experts telling me so!!

[allexcosta]

If the strings are old replace them. If new, your E string could be twisted.

[Rockin Mike]

One reason top strings tend to go dead quickest is because they get more finger oil on them. Whether the E on a 4-string or the B on a 5-string, you can help preserve it by washing your hands before you play, building a habit of not resting your thumb on it (either hand) and wiping your strings down after you play.
Coated strings may help, I never tried them.
Folks say the DR K3 coating sounds good and you can get them in colors.

[Rockin Mike]

Originally Posted by allexcosta

If the strings are old replace them. If new, your E string could be twisted.

I have heard it said that initially bringing a new string up to proper tension tends to twist it .

Same folks said the solution is to loosen it again, remove the ball end from the yoke (where it attaches to the bridge or behind the bridge), let it flop around to get rid of whatever twisting it may have, then put the ball end back and tune it up.

[jcburn]

Thanks for the advice folks. The reason I ask is I think the same thing has happened to thge last few sets of strings, but haven't noticed the issue when the strings are new (although it may just be that - new strings will always sound brighter). I do use fairly heavy gauge strings (110 E) and tune to E flat standard. I may just be the fact it is a big string and gets the most use, I dunno. It's just that the other strings still sound quite good and the E sound a little dull.
I am in the process of getting some new saddles machined so until then I'll see how a new set go.
Thanks,
Jake.

[Rockin Mike]

My Ibanez has a wimpy B string. It might have something to do with the thinness of the neck, I dunno. The B on my Spector fills me with delight, however (even before I got the .142 on there)

[John Wentzien]

Make sure both of your adjustment screws are EXACTLY the same hieght on the saddle ....NOT tilted in any way!