Fretless Bass Buzzes on One Spot

[jasper383]

I have a fretless bass that is buzzing right at the 3rd fret E string. It's almost choking out, and sounds a bit like a dead spot. There is a tiny bit of this on the A string 3rd fret as well, but I can get around it. The G on that string is a pretty important note!

Raising strings/changing relief only helps a little. I have tried changing strings and get the same result. I mean I can really crank that string way up high, and it goes away, but then I have an E string that is awkward.

Is this a high spot on the neck, and is there something I can do to repair it myself?

[MysticMichael]

Originally Posted by jasper383

Is this a high spot on the neck, and is there something I can do to repair it myself?

Sounds like it - a high spot on the fingerboard, that is. Not the neck. If it is a high spot, then the fingerboard needs to be leveled.

My best guess is that this problem can be diagnosed with the use of a precision straight-edge, with the solution being a very careful planing and/or sanding of the board. If you've got the luthiery chops and the right equipment, then go for it. I don't. So I would take it to a good guitar repair shop instead...

MM