Do I need a refret?

[the low one]

Do you think this needs a refret? It's not unplayable but can buzz a little.

[Asa Samuel]

i never thought frets could ever get like that


but then, i've not been playing that long.

[mimaz]

Trust me, it's time.

[Asa Samuel]

how long before that would start to happen *is getting worried about the longevity of my frets now*

[202dy]

Originally Posted by Bass_Junkie

how long before that would start to happen *is getting worried about the longevity of my frets now*

How long is measured in hours of playing, not years of owning.

Almost all frets are softer than strings. Strings last longer because this is so. Frets wear out. That is the way it is supposed to be. They are meant to be dressed regularly. It is just like the brake pads on one's automobile. No one thinks it a shame when the pads wear down. They simply have the pads replaced. If one plans on owning and playing a particular guitar for a long time they should plan on having at least a few partial refrets and a complete refret or two before putting it out to pasture.

[nastyn8c]

I also had no idea it could get that bad, but I definitely believe it. I've noticed that I'm wearing my Dingwall's frets down pretty badly too. Refretting is going to suck.

[deaf pea]

To answer your question . . . I don't think you need a refret job. But you DO need a fret job - leveling and "crowning" the frets that are there.
I'd take that neck to a qualified luthier ASAP for an expert opinion.

If the wear is much worse for only a few of the frets (as is often the case with an instrument that is only played in the first position - the 1st 4 or 5 frets are worn down like that, but the higher frets show little use), you might need a "partial refret", replacing only the most worn frets.

Good luck . . .

[the low one]

Thenks for the replies. The bass is 25 years old and used weekly. I guess it needs a little TLC.