I picked up a used bass today that sounds great but I just can't get the fret buzz out. I have the neck adjusted just about the same as my L-2500. However, the strings are way higher off the fretboard, and there is buzz if I play anything forte. The buzz is from fret 1 all the way up to 15 or so. Raising the strings would just make it even less comfortable to play. The neck looks true, I don't see any humps. Do I need a shim or something? I can't get rid of this buzz. Any suggestions?
Enjoy the benefits of a premium membership!
Upgrade Account
-
TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
Join free Log in
Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.
Fretbuzz that just don't quit
- Thread starter StuFordBass
- Start date
What works on one instrument does not necessarily translate to another.
Measure the string height at the twelfth and last fret on both instruments, bass and treble sides respectively. Measure the relief on both instruments. Post the data here. Someone will walk you through it.
Measure the string height at the twelfth and last fret on both instruments, bass and treble sides respectively. Measure the relief on both instruments. Post the data here. Someone will walk you through it.
Benjamin Strange
Commercial User
- Dec 25, 2002
- 9,737
- 310
- 49
- Disclosures
- Owner / Tech: Strange Guitarworks
Most likely you've got uneven frets - perhaps 1 out of 1000 manufactured instruments come out with decent fretwork.
Same happended to me with my 5 string. In the end I got a shim but it still isn't as easy to play as my cheap budget bass.
How much relief, if any, is in that neck? I'm guessing that the truss rod is cranked too tight.
there's plenty of relief, and a shim would only make it worse. its a combo of some uneven frets and a bit of ski jump. i'm having the frets dressed and i'll go from there.
