What is Guitar fret buzz, what causes it, and how to eliminate fret buzz.
Introduction
Bought yourself a guitar that you love? It looks, feels, and sounds great…but the strings are buzzing against the frets?
This is a common problem in guitars and it can drive players nuts. After all, buzzing can ruin clear ringing notes, and turn your solos into a slushy mess.
Guitar buzz can happen on a new guitar, or even with a different set (or even brand) of strings.
Here’s more about fret buzz and how to get rid of it.
What is Guitar Fret Buzz
Fret buzz is the sound caused by a guitar string rattling/buzzing against a fret wire when the guitar string is plucked or played.
Guitar players feel annoyed by this buzzing sound, and want it eliminated.
What Causes Guitar Fret Buzz
Here are the more common causes of fret buzz:
- String Action is too low
- Frets are not level with each other (some are taller, some are shorter)
- Neck is bowing backwards
- At times, fret buzz is caused because of the players’ technique and not because of the guitar. If the plays the strings too aggressively on a perfectly fine guitar, fret buzz may still occur.
How to Eliminate Guitar Fret Buzz
- BRIDGE ADJUSTMENT: Every Bridge has a height adjustment part- which can easily be adjusted (using a simple screwdriver or something). Raise the bridge slightly to stop the buzzing.
- TRUSS ROD ADJUSTMENT: Sometimes the tension on the Truss Rod is incorrect which causes the buzzing. However, it best that you don’t mess with the Truss Rod because if you make it too tight then you can crack your Guitar’s neck! Better option is to take it to a Guitar Repair place.
- TUNING PEGS/ HEADSTOCK TIGHTENING: Buzz could also be because the Tuning Pegs are loose. So make sure the screws/washers etc are all screwed on nicely.
KeytarHQ editorial team includes musicians who write and review products for pianists, keyboardists, guitarists & other musicians. KeytarHQ is the best online resource for information on keyboards, pianos, synths, keytars, guitars and music gear for musicians of all abilities, ages and interests.
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