Weird string buzz on first 2 frets of A string - Finally figured it out.

[spong]

Just some info in case anyone else runs into this issue:

I have been trying to get rid of the A string buzz on my Pbass for a while. It was only on the first 2 frets. I initially thought it was the nut cut too low. I built it up with baking soda and super glue and it was still there. I also tried a drill bit jammed between the string and fret board and it was still there. I tried adjusting the truss rod with loads of clearance and it was still there.

Anyhow it ended up being something wrong with the string. I guess the core must have broken or something. I tried another string and hey presto the buzz was gone.

 

[Moving Pictures]

I also learned that lesson. First thing I do now is change the string.

 

[FunkHead]

Sometimes just getting the A string wrapped down lower around the machine head post is what’s needed. Might have been a bad string or just a better installation on 2nd attempt.

 

[spong]

Yea I tried that but it made no difference in this case.

 

[michael_t]

I have been trying to get rid of the A string buzz on my Pbass for a while. It was only on the first 2 frets...

Anyhow it ended up being something wrong with the string. I guess the core must have broken or something...

Just curious... What specific brand and type of strings are we talking about?

 

[spong]

These were fairly new Pyramid Flats. There was also a weird metallic pinging type sound on the e string around about the 6th fret that also went away when I changed strings.

 

[spong]

Pyramids definitely stand by their product. I sent them an email saying that their string failed, and they are sending me a replacement even though I didn't actually buy the strings as they came with a bass I bought. I actually thought they had a great tone despite the issue I had with them.

 

[Turnaround]

I also learned that lesson. First thing I do now is change the string.

Another lesson, which you discovered: If it's buzzing when fretting on the first few frets the problem is not the nut. It doesn't matter how high or low the nut is, once you fret the string the nut is no longer part of the speaking length of the string.