I just picked up a used 2011 Fender American Deluxe Jazz V Bass and have noticed that the D string has strong fret buzz starting at fret 10 through 14. This is most notable when playing aggressive, making that area of the neck unplayable for certain music. A & E are fine. The fret buzz appears to be from the lower frets since it still buzzes when I'm fretting a higher fret in that area (e.g., fret 10 buzzes when fret 12 is held). Is this what is referred to as a "fret out"? I've never had this issue before with 10 previous basses, mostly used. I've change strings and the problem still exists. I'm using .065 D string. Set up is good, adjusted very close to Fender specs. Thoughts? Twisted neck? Nut cut too deep for the D string? Fret work needed? I appreciate any insights.
The nut won't be the problem, as it sounds like you are fine with the open string and the first 9 frets. The frets in the middle may be high, but there is a good chance you just need a bit more relief. Backing off the truss rod slightly (1/8 turn or so) might just do the trick.
Adjusting the truss rod won't affect frets that high on the neck, the truss rod is for the first 4 or 5 frets. You need some fret work.
Thanks. I did try the neck adjustment but didn’t resolve the issue. Looking more like this bass needs some fret work.
It turned out to be the nut. D-String slot had worn way down due to heavy play by previous owner. To compensate, it appears he had allowed too much relief in the neck - which shifted the problem down lower on the fret board. Took it to Greg Guitars in Southport, NC and he did a fantastic job fashioning a new bone nut. After that, a few tweaks to the truss rod nut and small height adjustments at the bridge and she plays beautifully. Thanks for your insights as I tried to diagnose this.