Restringing - Got me a Buzz!

[pettyman]

Hey

Just restrung my mando, first time since I got it at Christmas - and boy is it nice to play!! Got D'Addario J74s on it now and it is great to play.

Problem is - there is a buzz whenever I put the tailpiece cover back on. Fine with it off! But I like it on so am wondering whether there are any tips anyone can give me.

It only buzzes on a few "notes" like 4th fret of A string and 7th fret of G string but that is annoying for G chop chords and A 3 finger chord!!

Cheers
Matt

[Jerry Byers]

It might be that the cover is not sitting correctly. The front edge might be touching the strings. When the cover is on, it should sit squarely on the bottom section and the front lip should angle up along with the strings but not touch. You could try to put something under the lip like felt or leather.

[pettyman]

ah that's interesting - not supposed to touch - mine always has, but it didn't seem to affect the last set of strings!

I'm off to hunt for some sticky felt - sure dad has some in his woodworking shed - he used to do woodturning and covered the bottoms of bowls etc with it!

Cheers
Matt

[otterly2k]

if that doesn't do it, Matt, then the cover isn't seating tightly and may continue to rattle (in response to particular vibrations).

This is one reason that some people prefer cast or single-piece tailpieces. And also why some people simply take off the tailpiece cover and leave it off.

[pettyman]

We'd run out of sticky basck felt but stuck some material to it and cut it to shape - done the trick and looks fine!

Cheers for the help - much appreciated!

Matt