strange oscillating sound

[jw54]

Hi - wondering if anyone can help. I have a cheap J/P back-up bass on which I've replaced the pups and the nut. The bass plays and sounds great except on the E string - once I get to the 5th fret and above the sound start to oscillate, with the beats getting faster the higher the note. I've noticed that the string sits pretty tight in the nut slot. There are no other parts of the neck where i get this problem. Anyone any ideas as to the problem/solution? Thanks

[ahpook]

how close are the pickups to the strings ?

if they're too close the magnetic field can affect the vibration of the strings, leaving to a wobbling or chorus-y sound

Edited March 26, 2011 by ahpook

[jw54]

Just checked - they're about 1/8" from the string.

[ahpook]

it depends on the strength of the magnets, so try dropping them a little and seeing if the sound goes.

[gary mac]

[quote name='jw54' post='1177620' date='Mar 26 2011, 08:35 PM']Just checked - they're about 1/8" from the string.[/quote]

An 1/8th when fretted at the last fret?

an 8th" would be about right, (depending on type of pick up) when fretting the very last fret.

[jw54]

Thanks guys for the help. The unfretted E is 1/8" from the pup - fretted it's about 1/16". I'll lower the pups tomorrow and see if it makes a difference. Any views on the tight nut ?

[tommorichards]

A tight nut IME shouldnt affect the tone. If you're worried, Use a pencil to colour in the nut slot, til its all grey, make it a bit more slippy.

[jw54]

Thanks for the advice. Lowered both pups and worked a treat. Bass sounds good all round

[gary mac]

Good to hear a happy ending