Low E hits top frets when I play

[extendedping]

Hi all I am the new guy who got the MIM Jazz last week. Is it normal when you play with your fingers that the low E hits the top frets producing a most undesirable sound? Do I need a setup or is this just my newbie fingers hitting stuff too hard...thanks...

[CaffeineTripp]

Udesirable sound? Fret buzz? Out of tune? In any case, I've used this site many times and it's helped quite a bit. Quick and easy way to learn how to set-up your bass to feel and play how you'd like.

[Dbassmon]

one of two causes;
Need a truss rod adjustment - loosen 1/4 turn (counter clockwise) to releave the back preasure in the neck and allow the strings to clear the top of the neck.
Since it is happening on just the E, could be the nut groove is too deep. In that case you need to replace the nut. Have a luthier cut you a new nut.
A professional set up never hurts.
PS this thread probably belongs in Setup & Repair

[extendedping]

Here is what is happening...I am trying to pick with my pointer an middle fingers...and often the low E string seems to hit up against the upper frets...I am assuming this should not happen...

[Dbassmon]

No this should not happen. see previous post for remedy

[lonote]

I could also be a technique issue; if you dig in too hard you'll get fret noise no matter how the bass is set up. Try playing with a softer touch and see if that works for you..

[Snarf]

Sounds like you're playing wrong.

[Eric Cioe]

Which is "upper"? The first few frets, or the ones by the neck? To me, upper means the ones by the neck. Your trussrod might need a shift, but it sounds like technique is at least a bit to blame.

[extendedping]

upper means closer to the pickup for me...anyway I brought it in for a setup as that was part of my deal when I bought it so I will know if its me or the bass in a few days...

[vindy500]

thats the bridge saddle needs raising

[pocketmonster]

If it's only the E string perhaps your technique is different on that string. Pay attention to your thumb and hand position and see if you are attacking that string differently with your fingers than the other strings. Plucking up or down is more likely to find the frets than side to side.