G string clank

Technique
1

I found that when I’m playing, the G string tends to make a clanky sound as opposed to a nice warm tone when playing the other strings. I’ve read that the G string needs to be treated a little more gently than the other strings when plucking. Is that true or is it possibly my setup (low action)?

2

G string clank sounds kinda painful :smiley:

Seriously though could be one of a few things:

  1. Notch in the nut cut too low (for an inspection and quick fix put a single or double layer of electrical tape in the notch to see if it helps)

  2. Uneven fret - does the string clank at all fret positions, or can you narrow it down to a single one? If a single one, give it a love tap with a plastic or brass mallet or the back of a heavy screwdriver

  3. Try to raise it a bit at the saddle. You may need to intonate it again.

1 Like
3

I’ll try it out, but it’s a brand new bass.

4

Don’t expect brand new instruments to have perfect setup or be without flaws on fretwork. Even higher end guitars and basses will typically come with high action and it’s hard to know what will happen to the frets as it moves between different climates around the world on its way to you.

2 Likes
5

See @kamikos below.

This ^^^^.

6

Yeah actually used instruments can sometimes even be a better bet there because previous owners have fixed all the problems and set it up reasonably :rofl:

2 Likes
7

I did check the action when I first got it. It seemed to be right. I did make a slight adjustment because I do like a low action.

It sounds like all of you agree that it’s the setup and not my technique. How do you pluck the G string as opposed to the other strings? Do you use the same attack, lighter, or heavier attack?

1 Like
8

Never really even thought about it, so likely the same. Definitely the same with a pick as well.