String height at the 1st fret

[Chrisk-K]

Is there any acceptable measurement of the string height at the 1st fret?

[FunkMetalBass]

As low as possible?

There's virtually no vibration at the first fret, so the height is almost never measured there unless it's being used to check the nut depth.

[251]

Originally Posted by Chrisk-K

Is there any acceptable measurement of the string height at the 1st fret?

FWIW, the zero fret on my fretless is 0.025" to the finger board.

Does that help?

[Chrisk-K]

It absolutely helps!

[walterw]

i don't see why, the distance to the board is a useless measurement;

all that matters for action is the distance to the tops of the frets.

the height over the first fret should theoretically be the same as the height over the second fret when pressing down the string at the first; in reality, you won't get it exactly that low without a little buzz, but it should be pretty close.

[251]

Originally Posted by walterw

i don't see why, the distance to the board is a useless measurement;

all that matters for action is the distance to the tops of the frets.

the height over the first fret should theoretically be the same as the height over the second fret when pressing down the string at the first; in reality, you won't get it exactly that low without a little buzz, but it should be pretty close.

The height of the zero fret on my fretless neck was 0.040" when I received it. It was difficult & very tiring to play in 1st position. Above the 5th fret, it felt normal. From Fret 1 to 5, I could feel the added stress in my left hand. Reducing the zero fret to 0.025" makes it as easy to play as any fretted bass I have ever held.

[251]

Originally Posted by Chrisk-K

It absolutely helps!

8-)

[Zooberwerx]

I was taught:

1) Depress / capo string at 3rd fret

2) Space between the string and 1st fret should be .003" - .005".

YMMV

Riis