sexybeast Posted October 25, 2006 Report Share Posted October 25, 2006 I'm using a zero fret and am having a helluva time getting info about string height regarding this topic. Do I have to file the other frets lower to provide proper string height, or do I have to use a taller fret? Is it all in the neck angle? Any advice will help. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
another doug Posted October 25, 2006 Report Share Posted October 25, 2006 I'm 99.9% sure a zero fret should be on the same plane as the rest of them. After all, if you put a capo on the first fret, it is effectively acting as a zero fret, and you don't have to raise it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mickguard Posted October 25, 2006 Report Share Posted October 25, 2006 My hofner has a zero fret, it's definitely taller and wider than the others. But it might be a replacement, dunno. Keep in mind that most nuts raise the strings slightly off the first fret, so it makes sense that the zero fret be a little taller. Also, using a taller wider fret will give you more time before you'll have to replace the fret --since it'll be getting a lot of wear and tear. You'll also be able to file just one fret, instead of all the others! I'm planning on using jumbo wire for the zero fret, medium wire for the rest. If I ever get around to fretting the necks I'm working on, that is. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Son of Magni Posted October 25, 2006 Report Share Posted October 25, 2006 I'm 99.9% sure a zero fret should be on the same plane as the rest of them. After all, if you put a capo on the first fret, it is effectively acting as a zero fret, and you don't have to raise it. My only concern about that theory is that when you use a capo, you're creating a break angle over the fret. This in effect cantilevers (sp?) the string over the next fret. If your break angle at the zero fret is the same then all is well. If not, then it *might* make sense for the zero fret to be higher (probably only by a few thousandths). Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
another doug Posted October 25, 2006 Report Share Posted October 25, 2006 (edited) My only concern about that theory is that when you use a capo, you're creating a break angle over the fret. This in effect cantilevers (sp?) the string over the next fret. If your break angle at the zero fret is the same then all is well. If not, then it *might* make sense for the zero fret to be higher (probably only by a few thousandths). First, let me emphasize that I am speaking without much experience of zero frets, but (in theory anyway) I stand by what I said earlier. Having a larger zero fret will certainly work; I just don't think it's necessary. I am also aware that there was a debate about this a while back, so I apologize if I'm forcing open any old wounds In response to Son of Magni, I don't think that the break angle should make that much difference. My strings don't buzz using a light touch, so I think that the break angle from the headstock should be sufficient. That said, I can't be 100% sure until I make a neck with a zero fret. Just out of curiosity, has anyone done a zero fret "my" way? EDIT: Zero Fret Discussion Never mind! I found the thread in question. A lively discussion, but no need to repeat it! Edited October 25, 2006 by another doug Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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