How to Fix Fret Buzz on Acoustic and Electric Guitars

Fret buzz can be frustrating for any guitarist, whether you're strumming an acoustic or shredding on an electric. This annoying vibration occurs when a string vibrates against one or more frets instead of ringing clearly. Fortunately, fret buzz is often easy to diagnose and fix. In this guide, we'll walk you through identifying the causes and resolving fret buzz for both acoustic and electric guitars.

Step 1: Diagnose the Problem

Before fixing fret buzz, you need to identify its cause. Here’s how to do that:

1. Play Each String: Play each string open and at each fret up the neck. Listen carefully for buzzing.
2. Check Action: Measure the string height at the 12th fret. Low action is a common culprit for fret buzz.
3. Inspect Frets: Look for uneven frets that might cause certain areas to buzz.
4. Check Neck Relief: Use a capo on the first fret and press down the string at the last fret. Check the gap between the string and the frets around the 7th to 9th fret. If the string is touching or very close to the frets, your neck might need adjustment.
5. Inspect Strings: Old, worn, or incorrect gauge strings can contribute to buzzing.

Step 2: Address Common Causes of Fret Buzz

1. Adjust the Truss Rod

If the neck has too little or too much relief, adjusting the truss rod can help:

• Too Little Relief (Backbow): Loosen the truss rod by turning it counterclockwise.
• Too Much Relief (Upbow): Tighten the truss rod by turning it clockwise.

Make small adjustments (quarter turns) and check the neck relief after each adjustment. Let the guitar settle for a few hours before making additional changes.

2. Raise the Action

Low action can often cause fret buzz. Adjust the saddle (for acoustics) or the bridge saddles (for electrics):

• Acoustic Guitar: Sand down or replace the saddle to raise the string height.
• Electric Guitar: Use the small screws on the bridge saddles to adjust the height of individual strings.

3. Level and Crown Frets

Uneven frets are a common cause of buzzing. Use a fret rocker to identify high frets, and level them using a fret file. After leveling, crown the frets to restore their rounded shape. Polishing the frets will ensure smooth playability.

Tip: If you're inexperienced with fret leveling, consider taking your guitar to a professional luthier.

4. Replace Worn Strings

Old or mismatched strings can create buzzing sounds. Replace all strings with a fresh set and ensure you're using the correct gauge for your guitar and playing style.

5. Check the Nut

If the strings sit too low in the nut slots, they may buzz when played open. Use nut files to slightly deepen the slots or replace the nut if it’s too worn.

6. Inspect Bridge and Saddle

Ensure the bridge pins are secure (on acoustics) and the saddle isn’t loose. For electrics, check for loose screws or saddles that may rattle during play.

Step 3: Prevent Future Fret Buzz

1. Regular Maintenance: Keep your guitar’s neck adjusted and clean your strings regularly to prevent corrosion.
2. Store Properly: Store your guitar in a stable environment to avoid extreme temperature or humidity changes.
3. Use Proper String Gauge: Heavier gauge strings require more tension and can reduce the likelihood of buzz on low-action setups.
4. Schedule Professional Setups: Have a professional inspect and set up your guitar at least once a year, especially if you’re unsure how to adjust it yourself.

Common Tools for Fixing Fret Buzz

• Truss rod wrench
• Capo
• String action gauge
• Fret rocker
• Fret files
• Nut files
• Screwdrivers
• Sandpaper (for acoustic saddles)

Step 4: Test Your Fix

Once you’ve made adjustments, play your guitar thoroughly:

• Test each string open and fretted.
• Use different playing styles to ensure the buzzing is gone.
• Make minor tweaks if necessary.

Valuable Resources

Here are some additional resources to help you troubleshoot and fix fret buzz:

1. StewMac Guitar Setup Tools - High-quality tools for guitar maintenance.
2. Guitar Tricks Blog on String Action - A detailed guide to adjusting string action.
3. YouTube: Fixing Fret Buzz by Elixir Strings - A step-by-step video guide.
4. Fret Buzz Troubleshooting by Sweetwater - Expert advice for diagnosing and fixing buzzing issues.
5. Reddit Guitar Community - Ask questions and share experiences with fellow guitarists.

By following this guide, you should be able to identify and fix fret buzz on both acoustic and electric guitars. If you’re unsure about any step or don’t have the necessary tools, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional luthier.