Fret buzz when I lift my fingers (fretting hand)

complexprocess · #1 04-30-2007, 06:45 PM

I'm not sure if this is a setup issue or a technique issue (but I sure hope it's the former.

)

I've got my bass set up so that there's typically little to no buzz when I sound a note, however I often get little buzzes when I release a note with my fretting hand (if I don't first mute it with my picking hand.) Is this a problem with my technique, or is this a common issue that can be fixed with a better setup? I don't remember having the issue before this winter, so I'm thinking that I just didn't adjust it quite right as the weather changed.

Any tips for fixing the situation would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

BellBottomBlues · #2 04-30-2007, 07:43 PM

Its your set up, as you got extremely low action. Until you can get another set up, just hit the note on the string after it. (Like instead of hitting an open D, fret the 5th on the A)

Bruce Lindfield · #3 05-01-2007, 02:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by complexprocess

I'm not sure if this is a setup issue or a technique issue (but I sure hope it's the former.

)

I've got my bass set up so that there's typically little to no buzz when I sound a note, however I often get little buzzes when I release a note with my fretting hand (if I don't first mute it with my picking hand.) Is this a problem with my technique, or is this a common issue that can be fixed with a better setup? I don't remember having the issue before this winter, so I'm thinking that I just didn't adjust it quite right as the weather changed.

Any tips for fixing the situation would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

This is Normal!! This is a natural feature of playing a string instrument, that you can use and incorporate into your technique!

So with a little vibrato it can be used to get a fretless mwah sound on fretted bass. It can also be useful to add colour and tonal variety.

So - as you play more, you realise that you can use your left hand to shape tone by how hard you press down, in conjunction with your plucking hand.

As they say : "The tone is in your hands!"

manicbassman · #4 05-01-2007, 05:48 AM

I don't want it... I want the note to end cleanly as I lift my left finger to go to another fret or string... I don't want the string buzzing against the fret during the release.

I don't hear this "buzz" on release from other Bassists either live or on record, so what are they doing? Am I plucking/picking too hard with too much energy in the string? Should I crank my combo right up and pluck/pick lighter? If that's possible without having noises now caused when the string is pressed against the fret.

To put it politely... it's ******* infuriating when I'm practicing... it's a real turn off to my enjoyment of the instrument. I feel as if I'm a complete klutz...

Bruce Lindfield · #5 05-01-2007, 07:01 AM

Get a teacher who can look at what you are doing and advise on technique.

Even one or two lessons can clear up technique problems that may hinder you for many years!

You can't do this remotely by internet - you have to have that person standing in front of you, looking at what you are doing!

jetstream · #6 05-01-2007, 07:23 AM

Had the very same problem after changing strings from GHS flats to D'adderio Chrome flats. Like to drove me mad, same gauge strings, technique was the same, come to find out it was my setup. Had to do a complete setup, truss rod tweek and string height adjustment. I'd suggest you take a look at that or take to someone who can.

complexprocess · #7 05-01-2007, 08:46 AM

Thanks guys. I did my own tweaking after I changed the strings and the weather

but it sounds like my skills aren't quite up to snuff. I guess I should bring it in to a shop and have it done right. Maybe while I'm there I can sign up for a few lessons to make sure my technique is on point as well.