Takamine EG512C Low E Buzz

[goeyj]

I'm borrowing this bass that has been sitting unplayed for some years now. It seems to be in good shape, nothing structurally wrong at first glance.

I'm getting a buzz/rattle on the low E string that is coming from the bridge (see attached audio). None of the other strings have this issue and produce a nice clear tone. Audio was from my phone's mic with no amplification on the bass. The buzz/rattle also gets picked up through an amp. I realize the plucking is quite firm, but just wanted it to be clear on the audio recording. It is more noticeable in person when playing lighter as well.

Would definitely appreciate any direction on this issue. It is my first time dealing with an acoustic bass, so it could just be something simple on the setup side.

 

[Zooberwerx]

Excuse me for asking but is the E ball-end fully inserted / seated or is it "hung up" by the larger diameter outer wraps?

Riis

 

[Anthony Buckeridge]

Zooberworks excellent observation is the first suggestion you should address.

It’s an issue that can definitely cause an after buzz and thankfully is the easiest of all the possible causes to effectively address.

As a generalisation, buzzes tend to come from the neck area or the bridge area, and tend to occur at the attack of the note or after the attack, following it.

Its very helpful if one can narrow the issue down into one of these four areas. It gives a great place to start and a giant leap ahead, in relation to the many possible causes of buzz that can occur with acoustic instruments in particular.


Hopefully, addressing Zooberworks point will fix the issue.

If not, then you should perform an exercise that should be performed upon any acoustic guitar like instrument anyone is considering purchasing.

That is, in a quiet setting, one should gently and carefully tap the top and back of the instrument all around its surface. This is to detect whether there are any internal braces in the instrument construction that are loose.

Loose braces are the next possibility that could cause such buzzing that is most likely to occur. Although rather more drastic, such issues could readily be addressed by a competent luthier. Sometimes a hairline body crack can result in a loose brace. So, look for such issues.


Although it might seem counter intuitive, if these types of issues are not the cause of the problem.

String windings, loose pickguards and issues elsewhere on the instrument can appear to be caused and coming from areas, seemingly un-associated to them.

The cause of buzz issues can be identified by following the diagnosis page on Frets.Com

FRETS.COM


Click on “Items for Luthiers”.

Scroll the list down to click on “Buzz Diagnosis”.

It will help you identity the possible cause regardless of what it might be.

Good Luck!