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Double Bass String rattle

L

LaDisputeLover

Jul 10, 2012
6
0
#1
So I'm new here and not sure whether I should've posted in here with this problem? But here goes
So I bought my first double bass about 10 weeks ago and have been playing non stop since then, I'm in love with this instrument. One problem is that I have noticed that around the 3/4 frets on the E and G string there is a little bit of rattle when I play these notes? Anyone know the problem and how I fix it/who I go to?
 
#2
Is the bridge adjustable? Does the rattle occur when you use a bow? Sounds like the bridge might need to be raised a bit.

If you have a fixed (not adjustable) bridge, You might want to consider a professional set-up by a qualified luthier.

Take care not to drop the sound-post if you're doing the work yourself....it can be a real chore re-positioning a fallen sound-post !
 
#4
LaDisputeLover said:
So I'm new here and not sure whether I should've posted in here with this problem? But here goes
So I bought my first double bass about 10 weeks ago and have been playing non stop since then, I'm in love with this instrument. One problem is that I have noticed that around the 3/4 frets on the E and G string there is a little bit of rattle when I play these notes? Anyone know the problem and how I fix it/who I go to?
Click to expand...

Welcome to TB! This belongs in the Setup and Repair forum. I'll let a mod know. Of course, there are no frets on a DB. :) The problems you are experiencing are definitely related to setup. They can be caused by:
  • Poor fingerboard planing/dressing
  • Improper curvature of the bridge
  • String-height set too low
Was the bass set up by a DB luthier? What kind of bass is it? Can you post pics?
 
#7
Thanks for the replies guys :) I will try and get some pics for you but in the meantime, it is a Hofner Alfred Stingl or something similar? I know probably not anything worth buying but was there and available so I bought because I had the money at the time. I know of course there are no frets but I meant just around where the 3/4 (so g#/a) would be :) thankyou
 
#8
LaDisputeLover said:
Thanks for the replies guys :) I will try and get some pics for you but in the meantime, it is a Hofner Alfred Stingl or something similar? I know probably not anything worth buying but was there and available so I bought because I had the money at the time. I know of course there are no frets but I meant just around where the 3/4 (so g#/a) would be :) thankyou
Click to expand...

What type of setup work was done on the bass? Did you buy it new? From where? I'm just trying to narrow down what might be the extent of your setup issues and what might be the best way(s) to address them.

I knew what you meant about the fingering position, but we avoid the "f" word here on the dark side. On our DBs, there is no place where a f*** would be. :) (Yes, I mean this in a lighthearted way.)
 
#11
I bought it from Landers Music, Orange, NSW. I doubt that it was properly setup by a luthier? Yes, i bought it new.
And sorry guys, had no idea! No more f*** word around here ;) the way to refer would be by saying the note then?
Thanks
 
#12
Bob Gollihur's site has a good directory of DB luthiers. That would be a good place to try to find one near you. You definitely need to take your bass to a good luthier, a good set up will make your bass play and sound much better, and all bass players should have a working relationship with a luthier. We will all need one eventually!
 

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