Question about a string that won't stay in tune

[Eskimo_Joe]

Hi,

I am have been having some issues with the G string on my les paul.

- It won't stay in tune very long at all. It jumps about a half note flat.

- When I try to tune it, it's challenging to dial it in -- when it's almost tuned, it jumps about a 1/4 of a note sharp.

- This problem has occurred across multiple sets of strings.

Has anyone experienced this before? Any ideas on how to fix?

Thanks!

[Kelsey]

All too often. LPs are tricky, between the break angle of the strings at the headstock and the angle of the headstock. Most likely the nut is the culprit, but in my experience classic Gibsons are harder to keep in tune than well-setup Fenders or PRS's.

[rhinocaster]

If the string is "Jumping" in pitch, it's binding in the nut.

If you're in the habit of tuning down to pitch after it jumps sharp, then you've created a situation where there is greater tension on that string on the fingerboard side of the nut than there is on the headstock side of the nut. This tension will eventually find equilibrium and you're string will now be flat.

[Austinrocks]

have a tech check the strings, typically we never get the nut cut for the strings, gibson does not know what strings we will use, so they don't cut the nut for the strings, a tech will

[bluesjuke]

Definitely the nut slot.

[stvnscott]

Use a pencil to apply some graphite in that nut slot and see if it helps. If it does, you may need to have your nut adjusted to fit the gauge of strings you are using.

[Eskimo_Joe]

I appreciate all the help you guys. I'll have a professional check it out.

[McStrats]

It's almost certainly binding in the nut. I had a bone nut cut and installed by a local luthier. It made the world of difference.

[Eskimo_Joe]

How much do you guys think it will cost to get fixed, assuming the nut has to be replaced?

[tonegangster]

Its also probably a good idea to have your frets dressed at the same time you do a new nut.

[paranoid70]

I had the EXACT problem with my SG. I took it to a tech and he filed down the nut for $20 while I checked out the other gear in the store. Problem solved!

[musicman1]

I pay about $80.00 to have my tech remove the old nut and completely install and set up a Tusq nut. Well worth it. Better open string tone and no binding or tuning issues. Tusq also lasts along time especially on a gtr w/o a trem. While he's at it, I usually spring for a good set up even though I generally do my own. On a Gibson, I will usually have the tuners upgraded too if the gtr has the old style tulip knobbed Klusons.

[bluesjuke]

That may depend on what part of the country you're in. My guy did an unbleached bone nut on my Martin for $45. + $5 for the nut. Top notch guy too.

[fumbler]

Is the guitar easy to play down at the first few frets? Do chords on the first few frets sound in tune (after the strings are tuned up)? If so, then the slots are cut deep enough and you just have to widen and polish that one slot. You could do this yourself pretty easily. There are specialized nut files available but first I would try just taking a D-string and "flossing" the G-slot with it. Then make sure to lubricate it (I use this stuff).

If not then the whole nut needs work and taking it to a pro is a good idea.

[jtees4]

Take a womans nail file, turn it sideways and file the g nut slot a bit. Don't overdo it, but really the worst that can happen is you screw it up....then you can always get a new nut and have it professionally done.