Talk to me about zero frets

[reverendrally]

When do you install them?
How do you dress them? Level with all the other frets or slightly higher?

Thinking about install one on this neck and have never done one before...

 

[bajerovaquero]

Subbed!

The same here, I´ve already installed it, I just made a small notch in the top of the slot with a triangular file to made it easier to replace it (maybe with a stainless fret?).
I guess the main reasons to do it is getting a consistent tone from open strings and low "nut"action, instead a nut you´ll be making a string spacer.
But still not sure how to level it...

 

[tjclem]

Almost all of my newer fretted builds use zero frets. I install stainless ones. I don't level them I just level all the other frets then lightly crown it when doing the crowing of the other ones.

 

[Scoly]

If you look at a Hofner Beatle bass you may get an idea.

 

[Bruce Johnson]

I've been using zero frets on all of my basses for many years. I use a larger size (taller) wire for the zero fret to save time. I put all the frets in at the same, and level all the main frets first. Then I flatten down the top of the zero fret until it's between 0.005" and 0.010" higher than the other frets. Then I crown it carefully to get the fulcrum point back to the centerline of the fret.

Yeah, I know, theoretically the zero fret could be the same height as the others, but I've found that to make the neck too sensitive to buzzing at the 1st. It's safer to leave the zero fret just a little bit higher.

 

[reverendrally]

Thanks Bruce and Tom. Yet again, I'm wowed by your experience and practical advice.

 

[Basshoofd]

I level my zero fret with all the others. I don't see why that particular fret should be any higher than the others. I haven't noticed any extra sensitivity for buzzing compared to the rest of the frets.

 

[Blue Blood]

Somebody asked about zero frets on the scomel basses facebook page the awhile back. This is how Scott answered the question:

"With the zero fret, I greatly prefer the feel of the strings in the lower registers. I compare it to playing an acoustic guitar with a capo, which for me makes playing the acoustic easier. The strings feel less stiff. I find that it also feels slightly different than a well cut nut. That might be due to the fact that the strings slide and roll a little over the zero fret, whereas with the use of a traditional nut there is no to very little movement. Additionally, I like how it makes open strings sound a little more like fretted notes. It's not quite the same, but close."

 

[shai-ga]

Zero fret is a must on my current headless project:

The open strings play and sound sweet, but I keep my bridge high, so the first positions have a nice clearance.

Just make sure the strings are pushed hard enough against the zero fret, and consider your bridge height.

The fret height is flush with all of the others, and I used medium width jumbos if it helps.