Should I change the nut?

RadioMasterDude · #1 12-25-2010, 03:04 AM

Hey, I just purchased a G&L L-2000 Tribute, it's a pretty nice bass, but the G and D strings buzz like crazy when I play them open (even when plucking lightly), I tried adjusting the action and the truss rod, but they still keep on buzzing. Afterwards I noticed that the nut looked a lot more slanted than it should be, the slots or the G and D strings were A LOT closer to the neck than the ones for the E and A strings, and I tried getting the strings higher but they kept on buzzing, it makes it a lot harder to play, and harmonics won't sound very clear... Should I change the nut or should I get it setup by a pro?

Thanks for the advice

C.Linton · #2 12-25-2010, 04:16 AM

I would at least have it looked at by a pro, and see what he says. Maybe that's all it needs is a good setup, although I suspect the nut might have to be replaced. See what the tech says first.

thirtypoint87 · #3 12-25-2010, 04:59 AM

Hold the string down between the 2nd and 3d frets an look at the relationship between the string and the first fret. If there's no gap then you need a new nut (bone!), if there is a gap then either the nut slot probably needs to be back-cut a bit.

Good luck!

Chris K · #4 12-25-2010, 05:17 AM

Yes, you need a new nut. Or you might send the bass back to wherever it came from. If it's new it should have a properly installed nut.

Zooberwerx · #5 12-25-2010, 08:52 AM

Need more information. I know you adjusted the truss rod but what is your relief at this moment? No guesswork, please...give us some numbers. Same holds true for the nut. Measure the 1st fret / string clearance with the string fretted at the 3rd. A set of feeler gauges and capo are indispensable for any bassist.

Sidenote: when fretting any string for the purpose of determining relief, clearances, etc., I depress the string directly above the fret, not in front or behind.

Riis