Even the most advanced guitar capos are, at their core, fairly simple mechanisms. In the most basic sense, it’s a capo is a clamp that raises the pitch of your guitar, similar to putting the nut or your finger on a higher fret on a guitar. Capos are useful for jamming in tricky sharp or flat key signatures, as well as transposing a song to a higher pitch while keeping the same chord patterns. We recommend that everyone buy in one of the options in this guide because the capo is a gigbag standard regardless of the sort of guitar they play.
Table of Contents
G7th Performance 3 Capo with ART (Steel String Silver)
- Adaptive Radius Technology - gives you maximum tuning stability by...
- Unique Tension Control - By simply squeezing to attach and squeezing to...
- Easy to use - Designed for one-handed use, in any sized hands. With a...
G7th’s groundbreaking Performance Capos, first debuted in 2004, are now in their third iteration. That cutting-edge guitar accessory has received countless plaudits, and I wouldn’t be shocked if the English business wins additional awards with the Performance 3. The Performance 3 offers everything you’re looking for in a capo. You want precise tuning, maximum tuning stability, maximum adaptability, and ease of use, don’t you? This capo possesses it. The Adaptive Radius Technology on this capo is something I truly like. Most capos are only compatible with fretboards that are flat or curved and have a specific fingerboard radius. The Performance 3 is compatible with any fretboard shape. You get an even amount of pressure across the strings and a more permanent nut on any fret.
It’s very simple to put the capo on any guitar. It only takes a single press to open the capo and slide it over your fretboard. There aren’t any screws to fiddle with. The Performance was created by G7th to provide the ultimate in tension management that is both effortless and precise. The correct amount of force will be applied to all threads in order to achieve the desired tension. That’s what I mean when I say ingenious.
The G7th Performance 3 with ART could be the priciest item on the list. However, when it comes to build quality, tuning stability, ease of use, adaptability, convenience, and tension control, it simply is the best.
Ernie Ball Axis Dual Radius Capo
- Quick, single-handed operation.
- Simply flip the capo around to accommodate flat or curved fretboards.
- Buzz-free clamping pressure for for both acoustic and electric guitars.
The tasty-looking Axis capo from Ernie Ball has a lot of kerb appeal, but its abilities aren’t just superficial. Its key advantage is that it can be used with just one hand. Do you need to change your capo in the middle of a song? It’s no problem! Simply grasp the Axis and move it around. The tensioning is taken care of by the springs. Capos don’t get any easier to use than this, as long as you don’t bend the strings in the process.
There’s also no need to be concerned about the curvature of your guitar’s fretboard. The Axis is equipped with two rubber-padded arms, one for flat fretboards and the other for radiused fretboards. Simply turn the capo to suit your ‘board. The arms do seem to get in the way a little, but the ergonomics are generally acceptable, so we’re not complaining.
Do you need to fit or remove your capo on the spot? You’ll need a spring-loaded clamp that simply clamps on without any fine-tuning required before or after. With a dual radius design that fits flat or curved fretboards on six and seven-string models, the Axis Capo is ideal.
Shubb C1 Nickel Capo for Steel String Guitar
Shubb has integrated numerous functions previously only accessible in the S model into the Standard C series of capos. So, deluxe features at a normal price. Bargain! Its slim frame shouldn’t stop you from playing around the clamped fret, though. To lock the capo in place or remove it, simply flip the lever – after you’ve set the screw tensioner for optimal pressure, that is. Sure, it’s only a 20-second task, but if you move your capo over the fretboard or to a second guitar on a regular basis, the speed of a quick-release capo would be preferred.
Another capo that has impressed us after a lot of stage time. This one is a well-known sight as an industry standard that was introduced more than 30 years ago — its longevity says words about how effective its roller design has proven for musicians such as Keith Richards, Joe Bonamassa, Sheryl Crow, Brian Setzer, and Eric Johnson.
You can use this capo on either the bass or treble side, and adjust the tension with the screw cap so that it fits snugly over the strings without being too tight. Shubb claims that the capo is built to last a lifetime, but he also sells replacement rubber sleeves for a reasonable price if yours wears out.
Donner DC-2 Guitar Capo for Electric and Acoustic Guitars
- 🎵【Strong Rust Resistance & High-Strength Metal】-- Donner...
- 🎵【Easy to Use while Moving Fast on Different Instruments】- Fits...
- 🎵【Firm Tension & No Scratches】-- Soft rubber pads give a more snug...
I definitely recommend Donner’s DC-2 if you’re a big lover of spring capos. One of my favorite features of the DC-2 is its memory spring. This gadget can be installed on any string instrument, independent of the neck’s shape or proportions. The DC-2 will fit well on a U-, C-, or even a V-shaped guitar neck. The DC-2 is able to provide balanced force across the strings thanks to this innovation. The precise tension is applied to each string, allowing the capo to eliminate annoying buzz. Regardless, this also helps maintain the strings in tune.
When it comes to positioning, the DC-2 is simple to secure and glide around the neck. Despite the fact that it has a very strong spring, this is the case. The capo’s immaculate finish is particularly appealing to me. It’s perfect for anyone who believes in keeping things simple when it comes to capos. It is, unfortunately, quite substantial. It’s nevertheless good news for people who have a propensity of misplacing or losing their capos due to their small weight. The DC-2’s price is a deal considering its incredible features, stylish design, and undeniable performance. The Donner DC-2 is the most gorgeous and high-performing capo I’ve ever seen.
D’Addario Guitar Capo – Pro Plus – Ideal for 12 String Guitars
- HIGH PERFORMANCE: FlexFit Technology automatically adjusts to any fretboard...
- DESIGNED FOR: Ideal for 6 or 12-string guitars or any instrument with...
- BUZZ FREE: Optimal pressure on each string prevents fret buzz
This D’addario capo is both lightweight and slimline, and it’s meant to have as little detrimental affect on your playing as possible. Because of its small size, the NS Pro doesn’t weigh down your guitar’s neck (which might be a problem when capoing at the first or second fret), and it’s easy to fret beside the capo.
This type is designed for fretboards with radiused edges. That implies you’ll need a different capo for classical guitar or other instruments with a flatter radius, which D’addario does sell. Just keep in mind that this isn’t a one-size-fits-all capo. Do you want to save money? Consider D’addario’s NS Lite model instead — it’s plastic, but it’s made of high-strength molded ABS, so it should last a long time.
The Planet Waves glides into place and is held in place by a tactile knob. What you don’t see is a clever spring mechanism that includes D’Addario’s groundbreaking micrometer tension adjusting system. When you use the capo, you’ll never have to be concerned about your guitar buzzing. The Planet Waves NS clamps down on the strings like a vise grip, applying just enough force to maintain proper string tension.
Your guitar may produce rich, clean tones without the annoying buzz. The Planet Waves NS’s size and weight are two possible drawbacks. If you don’t have a safe place to keep this capo, it’s easy to misplace it. I recommend keeping it in its own pouch. With this D’Addario capo, you’ll never go wrong. It combines excellent performance, precision tensioning, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness in a thin and sleek design that fits comfortably in your pocket.
Jim Dunlop Acoustic Trigger
- Avaiable in flat or curved
- Essential for any guitarist
- Fits most acoustic or electric
The Trigger capo by Dunlop has been around for a while. Some could argue that it’s just another one of those ‘industry standards.’ In 2020, it will have a natural opponent in the form of the Ernie Ball Axis, both of which are spring-loaded quick-release designs. With a squeeze of the Trigger’s spring-loaded arms, you can easily change keys, just like the Axis. Easy!
Despite the Trigger’s reassuringly solid structure – which will ensure consistent intonation in usage – the Axis has it licked in terms of affordability and versatility. However, there is nothing to hate about this. It’s a fantastic capo with a long track record. If you want one, you can rest assured that the Trigger will deliver.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a guitar capo?
A guitar capo is a device used to change the pitch of the strings, allowing players to explore different keys and chord voicings without re-tuning the guitar.
How do I use a guitar capo?
Place the capo on the desired fret, making sure it’s secure and doesn’t buzz or slip. Adjust the tension as needed to achieve the desired tone and playability.
What are the different types of guitar capos?
Spring-loaded capos, C-clip capos, trigger capos, and partial capos are the main types of guitar capos available.
How do I choose the right guitar capo for my needs?
Determine the type of capo you need, consider the material, size, adjustable tension, brand reputation, and price. Try before you buy if possible.
Can I use a guitar capo on any guitar?
Yes, guitar capos can be used on acoustic and electric guitars, as well as classical and bass guitars.
How do I properly care for my guitar capo?
Keep your capo clean and dry. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity. Store it in a protective case when not in use.
Can I use a guitar capo for other instruments?
Some capos can be used on other instruments like banjos, ukuleles, and mandolins, but compatibility may vary depending on the instrument and capo design.
What’s the difference between a spring-loaded capo and a trigger capo?
Spring-loaded capos use a spring mechanism to clamp onto the strings, while trigger capos use a lever system to pinch the strings against the fretboard. Trigger capos offer more precise control over the pitch but may take longer to apply.
Can I use multiple capos at once?
Yes, you can use multiple capos at once, creating different tonal variations and effects.
How do I properly install and remove a guitar capo?
Place the capo on the desired fret, making sure it’s secure and doesn’t buzz or slip. To remove, gently lift the capo off the strings, taking care not to scratch the finish