A-string buzzing no matter how high I set it...***?

[jsbach1982]

Hey all, I have an unusual setup problem that I've never even heard about before. I'm dialing in the action on my Stingray, and the other 3 strings are about perfect, but the A-string is buzzing no matter how high I raise it. Currently it's higher than the E-string (just over 1/8", the E-string is just under 1/8", measured at the 12th fret).

It's a very slight buzz, only lasts for a half second or so, but definitely audible. It's fairly consistent up and down the neck. I've already tried tapping the last few frets with a hammer to see if it might be a high fret, no dice.

I'm 90% certain it's fret buzz, that's certainly what it sounds like. Already checked every conceivable part on the bass to make sure it wasn't just something rattling. It's audible both through the amp and unplugged.

I'm going nuts trying to sort this out...any ideas?



-Jono

[Craig_S]

Sounds like it could be buzzing in the nut slot. Try playing the string while pressing lightly on it at the nut. If that stops the buzz, you've found the problem. The solution is to wind that string around the post more (start with a longer string length). You want to increase the downward angle, across the nut, on the headstock side.

[Zooberwerx]

+1 on the nut. If the string angle is not steep enough or the nut is cut too deeply, you'll end up with "back buzz" (string buzz between the fretted string and nut).

Riis

[ProfGumby]

Yup, check yer nuts!

Then look at the slot on the A string nut. I have at least 3 wraps on the A string post, and I always cut that string longer than the rest. I had 2 basses that buzzed on the A string with less than 3 wraps.

Also a 3 string retainer would stop that too, as would a new nut done by a tech. But try the easy fix first.

[Turnaround]

Originally Posted by jsbach1982

It's fairly consistent up and down the neck.

If you mean by this that it buzzes when fretting the A string at different points on the neck, then it's not likely that the nut is the problem. Check to see that the string has a good break angle at the bridge. Try pressing the string down at the bridge on the neck side of the saddle. If you still have a problem, I would be suspecting either a burr on the bridge saddle or a bad string.

[Zooberwerx]

Here's a quick and easy way to determine if source is the nut, string, or bridge: loosen the string enough that you can lift it from the nut slot insert a thin paper shim (a gum wrapper doubled over is often enough), replace the string and tune to pitch. Is the buzz still present? If so, its not the nut. Try it and get back to us with the results. We'll go from there.

Riis

[JLS]

Did you just change strings? If so, I'm 102% sure you have a bad string.

[jsbach1982]

I've more or less ruled out the nut as the problem already. Tried pressing on the string in the nut, and pressing on the string above the nut; no change. Plus the 'Ray already has a string retainer on the A and D strings.

Same deal for the bridge. Pressed the string down on the saddle, behind the saddle, just in front of the saddle, etc. when checking for rattles.

How would I go about checking for burrs? That is, other than doing a visual check and running my finger through the string groove in the saddle (i.e. the obvious).

Yes, I did just change strings. Brand new set of DR Jonas Hellborg signature strings. I already have a problem with the 'E' string: I get that weird chorus/overtone usually associated with a twist in the string or pickups too close to the strings. Of course I already tried lowering the pickups all the way, and I go out of my way to make sure the strings don't get twisted when I install them.

So...sounds like 2 bad strings in a $30 set. My first set of DR's, too...



-Jono

[Turnaround]

I haven't tried the Hellborg sig's yet, but I have yet to hear anything good from anyone who has tried them. You should tell DR how unsatisfied you are and see what they will do for you. I have heard that they are pretty responsive to unhappy customers.

[Craig_S]

Originally Posted by jsbach1982

So...sounds like 2 bad strings in a $30 set. My first set of DR's, too...



-Jono

I quit using DRs 12 (or so)years ago, because I got two sets in a row with dead A strings. They were deader than an old flat wound. That's not to say they don't make good strings, just that I was unlucky with them. I've stuck with D'Addario, for the most part, and have never had an issue with them.

I hope a string change solves your problem. Good luck!

[Steve]

I've had issues with DR's as well.

Did you check the spring around the saddle adjusting screw? They can buzz a little.

[JLS]

Sounds like they've got a QC problem that needs attention.

I've never used them, but I've heard them sound great, on other bassists'
instruments.

[Zooberwerx]

I think we're "rushing to judgement" on the defective string issue without looking at and/or eliminating the other possible causes including:

*Tuner post windings
*Nut slots
*FB relief
*Fret condition
*Bridge height / witness point

At $30 a set, new strings would be the last thing I throw at the problem and only if all other components proved to be in within spec....and there's a systematic way to approach this which we have not followed.

For instance, I see where you "pushed on the string in back of the nut and in front of the nut" (sorry for paraphrasing) to ensure the string was seated properly. Great, but what is the relationship of the nut slot depth to the first and second frets? Does it pass the "ping" or feeler gauge test? From previous experience, I've noticed that changes in string brand, gauge, windings, etc. will result in inadequate clearance. Warwick and Alembic have known this for years, hence their own versions of the "adjust-a-nut".

What's your neck relief when fretting the 1st and 17th frets? I love to click on the "Help..My Neck / Strings Are Buzzing" threads to find the second sentence invariably reads "...my neck is as straight as an arrow". Zooberwerx's standard disclaimer: some will tout the benefits of a perfectly flat (read: no relief) fingerboard but I have yet to pull it off with any degree of success. FTR, nut and/or relief conditions can create back-buzz whereas the string buzzes between the fretted note and nut not between the fretted note and bridge.

Sounds like you've taken the bridge out of contention as the string is now jacked up enough for a high-wire act.

Riis

[jsbach1982]

Quick update: tried putting a shim in the nut slot. No change. Checked the string groove in the bridge saddle. Smooth as can be.

@Zooberwerx: the nut passes the 'ping' test. I can't really quantify the amount of relief, but there is definitely daylight between the string and the 10th fret (using the standard relief test). I generally use the Gary Willis method to set relief.

Also, it's NOT back-buzz. Checked for that by damping the string between the nut and fretting point; buzz is still there.



-Jono

[Zooberwerx]

Okay, then....its possessed. Thanks for the update, though! You at least ruled out the simple stuff.

Riis

[Jools4001]

The bridge on one of my basses gives a similar effect if the set screws that raise the saddles are not set evenly on each side of the saddle

[Joshua]

A few maybes (and assuming new strings don't solve the problem):

1) On the screw that sets intonation there is a spring, if that spring is not contacting at both the front and back (ie riding free) it can buzz. That one got me for ages on my old Modulus.

2) Tuning gears? While playing the A, try and hold each tuning gear and see if the head might be loose on 1.

3) As someone noted previously, the set screws for the saddle can be loose and vibrating. If so, a drop of clear nail polish can hold them tight (just a tiny drop!).

[groove pump]

I think that our moderator covered it above in terms of other potential culprits. I just wanted to mention a buzz that I had in my bass a while back that was pretty elusive - turned out to be in one of my tuners and it only happened with a certain note. I was getting ready for an exorcism myself until a buddy helped me find it. Good luck amigo.