Switched to thicker strings to play in C#, buzzing at first fret, help.

[LlymboKO]

I play a GMP Elite 4 string. I had been recommended to buy single strings from Daddario (Pro steels) at guages .120, .85, .65, and .50 to play in C# so the string would keep their tension when I tuned that low. Yet when I put the strings on I'm a getting tons of buzz when I play open on the first fret of both the C# and G# strings. I tried messing with the action for hours but I just ended up having the action incredibly too high and still the buzz. How would I resolve this problem, have no buzz and keep my action low and still use these strings?

Thanks
Kalen

[meev992]

first, some detailed pictures of the bass, nut area, relief, and what your bridge looks like, right now, would help.

Can u isolate the area that seems to be making the most noise?

A truss rod adjustment might do you some good, but you might have done that already.

First, I'm a master at getting my action as low as I can get, but with my BEAD tuned bass, I had to split the diferrence and give the neck just enough relief for the string to vibrate properly.

It appears that you have picked the precise gauges that would make Detuning to C# necessarry.

Bottom line:

1. truss rod might help

or

2. step up a gauge or two, and tune up to C# tuning. That way, the strings will be tighter, and the string excursion will be less, and you might be able to get away with the low action that you want.

EDIT

if u still want to use the same strings, refer to option 1.

[LlymboKO]

Sadly I can't get pics up at the moment....but I will as soon as possible.

I tried messing with the truss rod, but pretty much got no where with it. Still seemed to get the buzz.

The weird thing is this is the first time I've ever had to deal with this. I've used thiner gauge strings and not had a problem with buzz, they were just floppy sounding.

[meev992]

I'm baffled, to say the least...honestly, probably as baffled as you.

I would go with my option 2.

or, if i were me, I would just go BEAD and use a capo if I needed to.

~~~EDIT~~~

and I sincerely wish I could help you more, its always good to help a fellow TBer

I guess the best thing to do, is isolate where the most noise is coming from, it might give you inspiration as to what you can do to solve the problem.

and if you can get pictures up, that might help too, but don't give up! It's not impossible

[meev992]

Originally Posted by Joshua

I am also assuming your nut is slotted correctly...

that's a whole new can of worms