Weird B-string rattle

[derekcbass]

I just put a Sadowsky set on my 5-string Atelier Z and the B-string is producing a weird rattle. It is not fret buzz, it sounds as though something in the bass is vibrating, but it occurs on the open B and all the fretted notes of the B string. It doesn't happen when I play any note on any of the other strings. I have never had this problem with this bass, or any other, before. I've gone back over the setup just to be sure that it isn't a setup issue. I cannot figure out where the sound is coming from, and it does come through the amplified tone. Anybody have any ideas?

 

[Craig Fones]

Check for a loose screw or a loose access plate on the back. Tap on the plate and listen to the sound. It should sound solid rather than making a "clack" when you tap on it. Also inspect internally for any loose electrical or hardware components inside or outside the body that might be vibrating to include the battery (if it's an active model). It's a good idea to wrap masking tape around the battery or add foam to dampen it from vibrations. And while your putting tape on the battery take a second to write the battery install date on it.

If it's coming through the amp then be sure inspect that the pickups are mounted solidly to the body. Try tapping on them from different angles to see if they sound solid or loose.

 

[derekcbass]

Forgot to mention that I am unable to find any hardware that is loose and that I have never used a Sadowsky 5-string set before.

 

[JustForSport]

Press behind the saddle to see if if goes away- not enough break angle, or witness/contact point not set?

 

[derekcbass]

Figured it out. Thanks!

 

[JustForSport]

Figured it out. Thanks!

Well, what was it?
Help out the community...

 

[derekcbass]

The after length of the B-string was against the spring on the saddle screw and was resonating.

 

[SnoozeButtonBen]

I just want to say THANK YOU FOR POSTING THE FIX FOR THIS. My Dingwall low B had been rattling and it was driving me CRAZY. I could HEAR it was the saddle but I couldn't figure out what was vibrating, I tried damping everything with my hand but nothing worked. But the little ball-end of the string was situated in such a way that it was touching the screw, all I had to do was slacken the strings, twist the ball end around until it was oriented correctly, and boom, problem solved. Brilliant! Thank you.