Buzzing

CBNJ · #1 02-03-2013, 10:59 AM

When all the knobs are up, there is some string buzzing, but it goes away once I touch the strings. Is that a problem, or is it normal?

Floyd Eye · #2 02-03-2013, 11:02 AM

It is definitely normal for single coil pickups. It could be a ground issue too.

DiabolusInMusic · #3 02-03-2013, 11:02 AM

Nope not normal, not uncommon, but it is definitely a problem that needs repairing in my opinion. Lots of folks think that it isn't a problem and there is nothing you can do about it, but it is and you can.

You have a shielding issue, give your bass a proper shielding job and the buzz will go away.

Floyd Eye · #4 02-03-2013, 11:04 AM

Maybe it will go away.

DiabolusInMusic · #5 02-03-2013, 11:14 AM

If you have a buzz that goes away when you touch metal/strings/bridge it is a shielding issue.

If you have a buzz that gets louder when you touch metal/strings/bridge it is a grounding issue.

I have yet to find a bass I couldn't remove outside interference from. The amp can pick some up some line noise but nothing noticeable or even comparable to the buzz you experience now.

Ensure you do the pickup surrounds and ground the to the copper foil lining the control cavity for optimum results. You can source copper foil tape locally from stained glass supply shops.