Odd Fret Buzz

[BrentDomann]

I just noticed an odd fret buzz on my Stratocaster. It only occurs between the 12th and 15th or 16th frets on my high E string. No other spot produced an unexpected buzz while playing. And it's not the buzz that bothers me--it's the possible problem that may be the cause of the buzz.

I checked the curvature of the neck by depressing the strings on the 1st and 21st frets, and had a nice comfortable space at the 8th fret. However, when depressing the 12th and 21st frets on the high E string, my string is laying flat across the frets. This does not seem to be a problem on any other string (and, as evidence against warping, it doesn't seem to progress as I move toward the higher strings--it just 'happens' on the high E).

Here are a couple of primers that may answer questions that I expect repliers may have: This is the first time I have noticed the problem, but it's possible that it was pre-existent. I don't see any visible evidence of warping, and the frets seem particularly well-dressed (especially for a Classic Series guitar). I am the original owner of the guitar, which was purchased new in 1998. Two years ago I purchased a Fender hardshell case for it to replace the gigbag. The guitar has been kept in conditions of relatively stable temperature and humidity for the entire duration of my ownership.

First question: I know that at least for Fender basses, the curvature of the neck is not usually visibly pronounced until one gets to the 5th fret area or lower. Thus it seems the higher fret area of the neck is more level. So although the scale length is much shorter on a Stratocaster, if I'm not mistaken it is possible that the upper area of the neck is supposed to be flat. If this is the case, then my worries seem a bit unwarranted. If this is not the case, what may my remedy be?

[crazydoc]

I'd think all the strings would be approximately flat across the 12th to 21st frets. I'd think your bridge may be a little low on the high E side, and raising it a little should take care of the buzz.

[ggunn]

Originally Posted by crazydoc

I'd think all the strings would be approximately flat across the 12th to 21st frets. I'd think your bridge may be a little low on the high E side, and raising it a little should take care of the buzz.

The nut slot may also be cut too deep for that string.

[crazydoc]

Originally Posted by ggunn

The nut slot may also be cut too deep for that string.

Except the nut has nothing to do with buzz between the 12th and 16th frets.

[ggunn]

Originally Posted by crazydoc

Except the nut has nothing to do with buzz between the 12th and 16th frets.

Oh, yeah, you're right. Duh*.

* shorthand for "I didn't read the OP's post well enough; I stand corrected".

[IronFlippy]

I'd go with crazydoc on this one. Lucky for you, strats have a nice bridge adjustment system to make this easy for you. There are 2 little hex screws on each saddle. Turn them both clockwise no more than a full turn and then check to see if the buzzing is gone. Then that string will need to be intonated again. A guitar repair center should be able to easily identify the problem and fix it for pretty cheap. I'd recommend a full set up while you're there, in case there might be other problems.

[BrentDomann]

I think I figured it out. After checking out my LP (which is the workhorse), it looks like the neck has the same kind of bow. What I just noticed on the Strat is that while my bridge should float about 1/8" from the guitar body, it's now only looking like it's at 1/16" or even 1/32". I might try a heavier gauge string or I might loosen the trem strings in the back of the body a bit to float the bridge a bit higher. If that doesn't work, I'll start adjusting string height (my action is pretty good, aside from the buzz).

I think that should take care of it. Thanks for all the responses, though.

[cephus]

I have heard that weird buzzes up above the 15th fret can be caused because the neck screws are overtightened and are distorting the neck.

[Light]

It COULD be a lot of things. If the action is within spec, though, along with the rest of the strings, then I would TEND to lean towards the possibility of a high fret. I can not, of course, say for sure without seeing it, but that is my guess (or else worn frets, which amounts to the same thing). Get it to a good repair person and have it checked out. There is no reason to live with any kind of buzzing.


Light

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