Fret noise

[rtarnell]

Hey,

So, this week I got my first bass, an Ibanez GSR200. So far, no problems... except I've noticed that when fretting notes, the string makes a noticeable 'click' against the fret. I don't mean fret buzz -- it only happens when I actually fret the note, but if I play the same note again, it's fine. Here's an example: [url="http://dump.flyingparchment.org.uk/bassnoise.mp3"]linky[/url].

Is this something I should be concerned about? A problem with my technique? Or is it normal?

Thanks!

[josh3184]

dont worry about it, if you don't like it then turn down your treble on your EQ

[Marvin]

Practice or jam with a drummer, it should cure it completely. He'll drown you out and you won't hear a fecking thing.

[thepurpleblob]

You can get this if your truss rod adjustment is wrong. The string is rattling off all the other frets when you fret a note. Fret each string at both the first and last frets (use a capo or a friend if you need to). Check the clearance at the 12th fret. It should be just clear of the fret, certainly not touching (and not a huge gap either). A good setup might be the answer. It's well worth learning to set up a bass yourself but if you are not brave enough then a decent luther will do this for a smallish amount.

EDIT:
A small warning... there's lots of resources online for doing bass setups. Read them. It *is* possible to break things adjusting the trussrod. Understanding how it works and making cautious adjustments with the right tool is the way forward.

Edited March 17, 2010 by thepurpleblob

[jj1234]

this sometimes happens to me on fretless too and I think it's more of an issue with timing your left hand and right hand. Fretting a note without plucking it usually makes a clicking sound, but depending how you time your plucking hand it might not be there - instead you'll almost be plucking it just *as* your left hand frets the note, so you'll get a nice poppy attack rather than a click. Also, playing with a lighter, slower touch in the left hand helps, so that you're not bashing the string into the frets as much.