Random strings ringing = Action?

[Korbl]

I posted something related to this a while back and people were advised that it could be a technique/muting issue. I find it strange that I can play a note on the high up on my C string ( 6 string bass ) and have one or more random strings start to hum. Even if played lightly and no other fingers are touching them. This happens all the time = random strings slightly humming, just enough to be noticable when recording and everything. I use the floating thumb technique when playing but still finding random strings humming from time to time. My action on the bass is quite low for tapping and whatnot but was curious to get my fellow tb'ers views on it. Take care and happy holidays.

[russtolium]

It sounds like sympathetic resonance to me: Sympathetic resonance - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The only way to prevent it is to have the strings muted or perhaps use the 'scrunchy' mute some players like Wooten use near the nut, so long as you aren't expecting to have any sustained open notes.

[walterw]

that's entirely a technique issue.

hell, the better and more resonant the bass, and the louder and more "sustainy" the amp, the more this effect will happen.

[Skitch it!]

Originally Posted by russtolium

It sounds like sympathetic resonance to me: Sympathetic resonance - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The only way to prevent it is to have the strings muted or perhaps use the 'scrunchy' mute some players like Wooten use near the nut, so long as you aren't expecting to have any sustained open notes.

+1.

It is a muting issue by the sounds, extended range instruments and that neck width take a lot of attention for muting technique. I'd try and get the left to do more too.

The 'scrunchy' does work well, it won't cure everything but for open strings it's quite effective.

[Jay2U]

I went through this as well. My Ibby is very sympathetic-resonance-happy. I tried about everything, including many other basses at a local music store. The better they were tuned, the more the resonance took place. I also used foam mutes near the bridge. I gave other bridges a serious consideration. In the end it all came down to me not muting smart and accurately. I stopped learning how to play and started learning how to mute instead. Every night, seven days a week I practised muting using several styles until it became a natural habit. You also may ask yourself which string to use; open D, or maybe better fifth fret on A? Now I use floating thumb and 'unused' fingers of the fretting hand while fingering. If I'm picking it mainly comes down to the fretting hand and the palm of the picking one. Ringing strings is no issue anymore.

[Korbl]

Thanks for the insight fellas. Looks like it's back to the drawing board :P