pluncky buzzy string

I am a beginner and my 8th fret on my high E string suddenly has started acting up. I don't want to keep replacing guitars everytime this happens. I don't think it's the technique because it is literally just the 8th fret. The 7th and 9th fret work just fine and ring out a clear B and C# per my snark tuner. Any help or suggestions to keep me from giving up on this guitar is much appreciated.

Can you see a wear pattern on any of those frets (the 8th fret in particular)? If so that could be your cause. When frets wear out they lower the string, from the correct position to closer to the fret board. This can cause the next fret up the neck to contact the e string when it vibrates. This could be the cause of your buzzing. Have a luthier look at the instrument, it may need to have the frets filed flat.

It could also be that your neck has warped due to heat or moisture. This will also likely involve a luther.

If you play guitar you will eventually find your way to such a luthier. They are like your auto mechinic. However they are usually less expensive than a new guitar (which you will probably have to take to a luthier to get the insturment set up for your style).... so might as well start looking for a good one now.

Thank you. I'd have happily traded the guitar for a new one if it was wear on the frets. It is a new guitar and me a novice.

Your advice about finding a luthier did come in handy though. As you'd alluded to it was the warp in the guitar truss. He was immediately able to diagnose the problem that the guitar truss was out-of-balance. He fixed it and i have not heard better sounds from this guitar ever now.

Originally Posted by: zaxena

I am a beginner and my 8th fret on my high E string suddenly has started acting up. I don't want to keep replacing guitars everytime this happens. I don't think it's the technique because it is literally just the 8th fret. The 7th and 9th fret work just fine and ring out a clear B and C# per my snark tuner. Any help or suggestions to keep me from giving up on this guitar is much appreciated.

If it's something that just started, likely your neck (neck) needs an adjustment. All guitars need this periodically. My Strat has a wicked buzz on the high E 12th fret. Time and weather conditions change the bend and bow on your guitar's neck. That metal rod buried in the middle if the neck is to keep the neck stable and when needed, to adjust the neck to bring it back to the right place. This does mean, as a beginner, you'll want to bring the guitar in to the shop for a setup. Most guitar shops have a tech for that and may cost you $60(ish) dollars. It's a good time just to make sure it is playable and get a string change too.

String buzz is very, very common and a good setup often will take care of it.