"Ask Bud!"

Question:

Why do some strings (especially the 4th and sometimes the 3rd on E9) suddenly develop a really shrill sound for no apparent reason? This happens sometimes to fairly new strings.

Occasionally I have found bits of lint under the string at the bridge. Removing this lint and cleaning up the bridge roller has helped.

But sometimes nothing helps. What can be done to fix this?

Answer:

The strings may not be causing the problems. It could be the guitar. These problems are most likely caused by:

1. The roller vibrating at one end. This can be stopped by putting a drop of oil between the rollers or the fingers.
   
   
2. The finger may not be perfectly round and smooth. If this is the problem, then shrillness and buzzes will develop. In this instance, the finger needs to be replaced.
   
   
3. On older strings, it could be an indication that the strings are getting ready to break.

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