String Problem?

[Roger...]

Hi Folks,

I've recently changed my hybrid 9 - 46's (which I was happy with) to a set of 10 - 46 'bright' D'Addario's (plain 3rd). The problem is, all of the strings when plucked with a plectrum (without amplifier), sound nice and bright except the 'G' (3rd). Difficult to put into words, but all of the strings have a nice 'ding', except the 3th which has a 'dunk' if you know what I mean (like you are lightly resting your sleeve on it). Through the amplifier it is a lot better, but to me is still noticable.

Just for info: February 2009 I had a very well appointed guitar technician replace the nut for a new bone one, dress the frets, and set up my guitar. It has been perfect and a pleasure to play ever since.

Any thoughts?

Best regards
Roger

[Charlie Hall]

Hi Roger,
If only the open string sounds dead and fretted notes sound alright the problem is the nut.
If all notes on that string sound dead, then the problem is a faulty string (unlikely with a plain string unless it has a bad kink along the length between the nut and the bridge) or it is resting at a bad spot on the bridge saddle.
If the nut is more likely to be the problem, slacken off the 3rd string and check that it isn't binding in the nut slot, in particular, check that it is allowed to rest at the bottom of the slot.
Regards,
Charlie

[Roger...]

Hi Charlie,

Thanks for that, I'll check it out. Maybe that might account for it as the previous string was a thinner gauge.

Best regards
Roger

[Roger...]

Hi Charlie,

I have checked the groove in the nut where the 3rd string sits. The string fits perfectly and sits nicely in the bottom with just a minimum amount of clearance to allow it to slide with no restriction. When I fitted the strings, I put a very small amount of vaseline in the nut grooves. Whilst I was carrying out the above check, I wiped off any surplus that was on the string. After winding the string up to tension again, it seems to be a lot better. Perhaps it's me being a bit too picky, and maybe a 3rd string of 0.017" which is not wound sounds this way.

By the way, the bridge saddles are brand new, stainless, and have no marks at all on them.

Best regards
Roger

[Charlie Hall]

Hi Roger,
There may have been some foreign matter in the slot and removing and refitting the string has dislodged it.
Regards,
Charlie

[Roger...]

Hi Charlie,

Good thinking. Maybe a tiny piece of wood came off the end of the cocktail stick when I put the vaseline in the nut slots. Anyway, it seems much better now.

Many thanks Charlie.

Best regards
Roger