Guitar Fret Level and Crown

There are several factors that may cause fret buzz. One is frets that are not level with the others. There may be uneven fret wear and divots from normal playing. These only get worse. Frets get leveled in several different stages. You must be extremely careful to ensure all frets are uniform in height and shape. They will all be smooth and flat. Now the process of crowning them begins. In a perfect world there will be the smallest contact point between the string and the fret. This makes it much easier to play and string bending easier than ever. Crowning takes time and patience. Files will do a wonderful job when used correctly and with enough practice, but be careful, a few slips can put you back a few steps.

Fret ends, Let’s face it, all the manufacturers have quality issues from time to time. Humidity may cause the fret ends to come loose or will protrude giving you those lovely nubs. These will make your practicing/playing experience short and painful.

For real playing enjoyment and overall good looks. Fret polishing to a mirror finish makes them slippery, looking very nice and last longer. Polishing to a mirror finish is about 8-10 steps beginning with 2000 grit and paper and working up to 12,000 grit. When they are polished you can tell it from across the room. Not many guitar players in Marietta and Roswell GA will take these extra steps, but trust me you will like it. The guitar is a combination of parts that need to be serviced on a regular basis.

If you have any questions, contact Rockit Guitar Repair.