Releasing a string without getting buzz?

manicbassman · #1 03-26-2007, 03:41 AM

OK, there's lots of info on how to pluck the strings and where to fret them with what finger and even how to mute the unfretted strings so they don't vibrate... however, I can't find any info on how to actually release a fretted string without getting a Buzz.

If I release, the string just changes note until I can get it muted with a spare left hand finger and releasing slowly results in a buzzing just as the finger lifts off. It's annoying me as I'm convinced I'm doing things wrong.

I'm trying to keep the left hand first finger "barred" loosely (not pressing down against frets) across the strings while using the other fingers, but it's difficult to keep it against the strings while using the pinkie or ring finger.

**BullHorn** · #2 03-26-2007, 05:33 AM

Bass is a noisy instrument.

If you do it too slow, it'll make a noise. If you do it too fast, it'll keep ringing. You need to find the time where it does the least noise but still stays mutes.

Also, check if it happens on all frets or just an area (Might need a set-up).

And last thing: Raise the volume. Often noises aren't picked up by the pickups.

905 · #3 03-26-2007, 01:50 PM

When I got my second bass, I had the same problem.
I found out I was releasing the string too slowly.

I assume you've had your bass a little longer, still, you should try experimenting with releasing the string at different speeds (as stupid as it does sound).

Maybe the action is too low. If the problem persists, go to a shop and have someone look at it.

Infernal Affair · #4 03-26-2007, 02:12 PM

I agree with BullHorn on the pickups thing. I don't think it's something wrong with your technique or bass, though finding the right time to release does help. My guess is that you're playing by yourself in a practice setting and hearing all the subtle nuances that you normally wouldn't hear in a band situation given that the amp has been EQed properly. In a gig with a reasonably sized rig you'll find that sounds like that subtle buzz will be gone or won't even matter in the mix.

I remember not too long ago I was getting a terrible string scrape noise due to dragging my fingers across the string quickly to fret a different note. I fiddled with the EQ a little and got that noise right out.

That's not to say don't work on technique. I'm just pointing out that maybe you might be a little too concerned in that regard.

Christopher · #5 03-26-2007, 02:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by manicbassman

OK, there's lots of info on how to pluck the strings and where to fret them with what finger and even how to mute the unfretted strings so they don't vibrate... however, I can't find any info on how to actually release a fretted string without getting a Buzz.

Releasing LH pressure quickly will minimize the buzz, but you're *always* going to get a little bit of buzz unless you release and mute simultaneously with either a free left or right hand finger.

For this reason, Gary Willis recommends doing all muting solely with the right hand.

Deacon_Blues · #6 03-26-2007, 02:27 PM

Playing very close to, or even on the frets, minimizes IMO the buzzing caused by releasing the string. However it doesn't remove the buzzing completely. To do that I think you need to mute the string first, which isn't always possible..

I also join the other comments about this being a problem only when playing acoustically or on low volumes when you still can hear the acoustic sound of the bass. Anyway, if it's still a problem on higher volumes, try cutting the high mids/treble (2-5 kHz) a bit.

manicbassman · #7 03-26-2007, 03:46 PM

thanks... it will take some practice, but I think I can tame it by lightly touching the string I'm about to release with a spare finger of the right hand (usually the finger I'm about to pluck with if it's the same string). It's mainly a problem when going to a lower note on that string or about to pluck another string. Going up on the same string is easy as I can mute the string with the next finger.