Fret buzz on every fret just 1 string

[Turnaround]

Span the first to 17th fret with a straightedge (or use the string as a straightedge) and adjust the truss rod until the relief at the 6th fret is about .012". See how it plays then and report back.

 

[decafie]

Span the first to 17th fret with a straightedge (or use the string as a straightedge) and adjust the truss rod until the relief at the 6th fret is about .012". See how it plays then and report back.

Sorry it took me awhile to get back to working on the bass! Just wanted to circle back to this and give an update.

Adjusted the truss rod till my .012" feeler gauge met with the slightest resistance.

Bass now plays kinda terribly, and the fret buzz is still opening on the open E string and fretted notes on the E string.

Completely stumped

 

[lethargytartare]

...Completely stumped

First, new strings are more likely to buzz, not less. No denting of the wrapped wire means metal closer to fret tops. I think OP said his buzzing went away after a while of playing.

You should also give some additional details like how old the bass is, when was the last time it had no problems, etc. But approach it logically (I'm taking you at your word that you've done every other standard setup troubshooting thing -- and English major note: it's gamut, not gambit ):
-- It's unlikely every single fret has the same exact problem only under the E string (like all of the frets have heaved evenly). So it's not likely a fret problem.
-- If none of the other strings have any problem, and assuming all four strings are set to the same action (following the radius of the neck), it's not the neck.
-- Are you 100% sure the buzzing is from the string hitting the next highest fret every time? take a very thin piece of fabric and put it over the next highest fret as you play each fret -- if the buzz remains unchanged, then you probably DO just have a high/heaved fret or two. And also put physical mutes on the other strings just to be sure.
-- when you're testing, use a pick and don't dig in -- pick light but clear notes and see if that still buzzes -- reduce the amount of string motion. If you play with a heavy attack, you might just need higher action and more relief, or get comfortable with a bit of E buzz (that will die down as the string breaks in).

Worth a try?

 

[decafie]

@lethargytartare

Thank you for the methodical troubleshooting list!

I believe I have done my due diligence in getting this instrument set up properly - relief set appropriately, action adjusted to a medium-ish low height, nut slots filed so that a .020" feeler gauge slides between the top of the 1st fret and the underside of the strings, witness points set at the nut and the saddle, checked for loose screws at all hardware locations, pickups lowered an unreasonable amount just in case magnet pull is messing with it, even tried new set of strings... so on and so forth...

The bass is fairly new, made in 2020. I do not know when it was last setup to be honest, although I'd say that I am the first person to adjust it.

I'll have a go at it over the weekend and report back, thank you!