Acoustic guitar problem...HELP!

[LesStrat]

Recently, I've noticed that the high E string on my e/acoustic guitar, a Yamaha APX10T, has been "rattling." Especially when plugged in. The string gives a strange "twang" sound, especially if picked/strummed with a heavier attack.

I think it is due to wear on the bridge. Where the strings come out from the bridge pins through the bridge, I've noticed that they have started cutting into the bridge (before they cross the saddles). What is the best way to repair this (short of replacing the bridge)? What is the easiest way? I do alot of my own work on my electric guitars, but I have never had to work on acoustics. Any other suggestions will be welcomed.

 

[Artie]

Re: Acoustic guitar problem...HELP!

For what its worth, this would be a good question for Duncan's "sister" forum:

D-Tar Users Forum

 

[Lewguitar]

Re: Acoustic guitar problem...HELP!

Does it rattle both open and when fretted? If it's rattling when fretted it's not the nut. Does sound like it's the bridge saddle at fault...but I'd have to see the guitar.

The saddle needs to be "ramped" so the string rings cleanly over the edge of the saddle facing the soundhole and doesn't "slap" against the width of the saddle...like a sitar.

(The nut needs to be ramped too but in the opposite direction so the string rings cleanly over the edge facing the fretboard. )

If the saddle is to low, it'll buzz. duh: ) Sometimes you can build it back up with bone dust and epoxy or super glue and then file it smooth again.

This is usually a temporary fix, tho I've had it last for years when I used epoxy.

 

[LesStrat]

Re: Acoustic guitar problem...HELP!

Thanks for the suggestions. I think it is occurring both fretted and open. It's not the saddle itself; the strings are cutting into the wood of the bridge where they exit the bridge pin. I'm thinking that maybe this is causing the string to be out of whack (instead of a saddle problem). But then again, maybe that's not the culprit. I'll have to look at it more closely when I get home. I have given it a cursory glance, but I don't think the neck is out of alignment in any way. I'd hate to give up on this piece--she's been quite good to me for about 15 years. Then again, the Taylor G.A.S. keeps returning....

Anyway, I know it doesn't help reveal the problem, but here's a pic (along with her sisters):

 

[LesStrat]

Re: Acoustic guitar problem...HELP!

That's a thought. But what about the notches forming in the bridge?

 

[Lewguitar]

Re: Acoustic guitar problem...HELP!

The strings wearing into the wood around the end pins shouldn't be causing your problem with buzzing. The problem is fret buzz, nut buzz or bridge buzz. In other words, its somewhere between your bone nut and actual bone saddle...including the nut and saddle. That's where the problem most likely is. Sounds like you need a pro set-up...

Lew

 

[LesStrat]

Re: Acoustic guitar problem...HELP!

Ok. Thanks.