Axis SS Nut Problem?

[Jedidad]

Hey guys,
I have had my Axis SS since Aug. 04. I would like to get it professionally set up (I am still not confident in my own abilities to do this). I took it to a reputable shop where the guy behind the counter (not their tech, he wasn't there when I took it) said that the tech would want to replace the nut with a bone nut. He said that the nut on it was plastic and cut too deep. The strings do sit completely in the nut slots, so I agree that the nut might be cut too deep. Also the cost of setup and nut replacement was going to be 125$. As far as I know, this guitar hasn't been touched unless the GC kids screwed with it.

Has anyone else replaced their nut? How does the cost sound? I haven't had any work done on any of my guitars in a while and this sounded a little high. But, the guy is a luthier and is very good. Any info/advice/help you guys could give me would be greatly appreciated!!!

God Bless

 

[Warg Master]

Dor you break strings alot? Do the strings sit too low or something? I don't see why the nut should be changed at all. There is absolutely no reason for it (IMO) other then the fact they just want to get some cash out of you. If it needs a set up, the only thing they should do is change the strings, clean the fretboard and frets (if need be) raise or lower the brisge saddles depending on any fret buzz/how low or high you want the action and intonate it.

IMO, unless you're having problems with the guitar staying in tune or string breakage near the nut, it shouldn't be messed with. That is not part of a professional setup.

 

[jongitarz]

When you hit an open string, does it buzz? If the nut is cut too low, the strings will touch the 1st fret when they vibrate. If the answer is no, then you do not need a new nut.

 

[Jedidad]

No, I have never broken a string on this guitar. It stays in tune pretty well. The action is pretty low, but I like it low. I have tried to set the intonation, but haven't gotten it quite there yet. You brought up a point that I was wondering about. Is this necessary or are they trying to get more money?
Thanks

 

[Jedidad]

When you hit an open string, does it buzz? If the nut is cut too low, the strings will touch the 1st fret when they vibrate. If the answer is no, then you do not need a new nut.

I just pulled it out of the case. I don't notice any buzz when I hit an open string.

 

[jongitarz]

Then you don't need a new nut. You need a new guitar tech. BTW, the nut material is a non issue once the string is fretted.