Zero fret - cutting a nut

[Allegrus]

I'm thinking of added a zero-fret on my next build. So ... for you guys that add a zero fret ... does that change how you decide to cut the nut slots? Am I wrong in thinking you can cut them as deep as you like as long as you capture the string position properly in the fretboard plane?

 

[Curtinsmith]

You are correct. Just make sure the slots are lower than the zero fret. If the slots are slightly higher it can cause buzz. The zero fret does all the heavy lifting and the nut slots just guide the strings.

 

[Allegrus]

OH that's good! I thought I was missing something because it seems to me like there are some interesting design options that can open up in that case to make some nice, smooth transitions between the neck and the headstock. Even just carving out the fingerboard with a groove to hold the string might suffice.

 

[Curtinsmith]

But remember that the string sits on top of the zero fret so there should be something higher to guide the strings to the posts.