Best Guitar Capo Review – Top Rated Models in 2020 with Buying Guide
If you want to find the best guitar capo, and you have little time available, you have come to the right place. After examining the quality and value offered by some of the critically acclaimed products in this line, we’ve concluded that the model to get is the Kava Audio GC-01. This unit is built to stay in tune and can be easily repositioned with just one hand. It is a versatile choice that can be used even with a quality beginner electric guitar. The heavy-duty internal memory steel spring will guarantee a secure fit at all times. If you are unable to find our first pick, but still want to select good guitar capos, we recommend you also consider the Shubb Deluxe Series GC-30.
Comparison Table
Our Top Choice
Built with ease of use and comfort in mind, this capo promises to work correctly every time you employ it. Its design makes it comfortable to use and possible for the unit to be positioned using only one hand. What’s great about this particular model is that it can be employed for a variety of instruments including mandolins and ukuleles. The materials used ensure durability whereas the silicone padding will protect your guitar.
At least one buyer says the product puts a bit too much tension on the strings.
Whether you’re into guitar, ukulele, or mandolin playing, this item is worth taking into account. It is easy to use, comfortable, and durable.
2nd Best
Whether you’re a seasoned or amateur musician, this model should not go unchecked. It is highly adjustable so you can set it rapidly and thus be able to focus on your music. Its design also makes it easy to remove or lock it. The unit is versatile as it can be installed on a banjo as well. Thanks to the custom-made rubber, the item will keep your instrument in tune. Plus, the lightweight stainless steel used ensures durability.
Considering the materials employed and the benefits it offers, the item may be a bit expensive.
If you’re on the lookout for a lightweight yet durable, comfortable, and adjustable capo, this model is worth taking into account, given its features.
Also To Consider
Designed to ensure ease of use and durability, this product is not only user-friendly but also lightweight to make it comfortable for you to employ it for your needs. Appreciated by many acoustic guitar players and ideal for both electric and acoustic guitars, the unit is sturdy but weighs little, so it won’t add too much weight to your instrument. Moreover, you might want to consider the capo for your mandolin or ukulele.
Durability might be an issue as a few buyers mention. The finish might be easily marked.
Give this capo a try whether you play the guitar, mandolin, or ukulele. The sturdy and stylish unit was designed to allow for easy installation and removal.
Highly Recommended Choices – Reviews & Comparison
To help make the buying process more accessible, we have selected some of the cheap guitar capos for sale that manage to offer outstanding quality and performance. These are the products that have garnered some of the best guitar capos reviews, and they are well worth your time and money.
Kava Audio GC-01
A quality capo should be easy to use, and it should work correctly every time. This is precisely what the Kava Audio alternative seeks to offer to the user. It is designed to allow you to focus on what is important and to let this nifty accessory do all the job for you. It fits comfortably in your hand and can be positioned quickly using only one hand.
This versatile purchase is compatible with lots of different instruments apart from your guitar. You can use it with your favorite electric ukulele, banjo, or mandolin. You will have no difficulties in making the most out of this purchase, especially if you are an aspiring musician that seeks to grow his or her collection.
It is constructed from durable materials designed not to bend or break like lower-quality alternatives. The high-density silicone padding will protect your beloved acoustic guitar against wear and scratches.
Pros
It has a heavy-duty internal memory spring that provides the right amount of tension and it won’t bend or break like other cheaper alternatives.
The silicone padding grips attach to your strings firmly without slipping and without damaging your expensive instrument.
It is a user-friendly choice that can get the job done reliably so that the performer can focus on what is important while the product does the job.
It has a slightly curved design which lets the capo put even more pressure on the High E and Low E strings.
The handle is ergonomic which makes it very easy to reposition the unit without disturbing the tuning.
Cons
The aluminum construction is very dull, unlike the shiny finish that is presented in the product picture.
You need to be careful when using it since it can squeeze the strings too tightly and it is best to re-tune it after each use.
Click to see the price on Amazon!
Shubb Deluxe Series GC-30
The Shubb Deluxe Series GC-30 uses the classic and trusted capo design that has been loved by both seasoned and amateur musicians for over 35 years. With this model, you get a device that is highly adjustable so that you can set it in a few seconds and then focus on your music. There’s no need to reset the pressure with each use.
Locking and removing the unit is as simple as flipping the lever. The ease of use will not only make things easier for the user when it comes to installing and removing the capo but will also allow him or her to have just one accessory for more than one instrument. Indeed, this versatile model can also be installed on your awesome banjo.
The custom-made rubber works similar to a fingertip, and it manages to keep your instrument in tune effortlessly. The frame is crafted from lightweight stainless steel, and the roller mechanism provides outstandingly smooth operation.
Pros
This option is made from stainless steel and it has a new roller design that is built to resist wear and it opens and closes very smoothly.
Compared to the original Shubb capo, this new model has a restyled lever that is much easier to operate by beginners since locking and removing only requires a flip of the lever.
It is unique among other adjustable capos since this model does not need to be re-tuned often, and it has a “set it and forget it” design that customers appreciate.
The overwhelmingly positive customer feedback places this model among the most popular and highest-rated guitar capos you can purchase right now.
Cons
When compared to other products this option is more expensive but given the quality of the materials used and the features it offers, this is understandable.
It is larger than most capos on the market so you’ll need to make sure you’re comfortable with its size.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($17.49)
Kyser Quick-Change
The Kyser variant is expertly engineered and built to be easy to use and to last. There is no wonder that this is a favorite of acoustic guitar players all around the world. The sturdy yet lightweight aluminum design won’t let you down, even after many years of use.
Since it is lightweight, it will not add a lot of extra weight to the instrument, and that means that you will be able to try new patterns and play in different keys without having to adjust to the new load of your favorite acoustic electric guitar. The spring-clamping mechanism allows for an easy-on and easy-off with the use of just one hand.
You shouldn’t let the small size of this capo fool you; the Kyser Quick-Charge has earned a worldwide reputation for being a dependable, versatile, and high-quality purchase for professional touring guitarists. It can be used with both electric and acoustic guitars, ukulele, and even mandolins.
Pros
When compared to past Kyser capos, the spring of this new model has 25% less tension and it was designed for modern guitars with small necks and low action that require less force.
It is very easy to operate thanks in part to its lighter action which provides a big advantage for players who need to change the capo position frequently.
The affordable price makes this accessory a no-brainer purchase for guitarists who prefer playing on sleek modern instruments.
You can’t go wrong with a Kyser product since it is one of the most popular and respected manufacturers of guitar capos on the market.
Cons
The curly design may take some time to get used to since it tends to get in the way when you’re playing close to it.
The finish is easily marked which means that you will need to be extra careful with how you handle it.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($19.95)
Planet Waves NS Tri-Action
This particular model is designed for 6-string electric and acoustic guitars so that you can get a buzz-free, in-tune performance on your radiused fretboard. The lightweight aluminum construction features Tri-Action geometry that’s easier on your hands and that provides a quick and effortless operation that only requires the use of a hand.
The aircraft-grade aluminum used in the construction of this nifty unit will ensure that once purchased, the capo will handle many years of heavy use without showing signs of wear. The micrometer tension adjustment and direct horizontal pressure ensure that the NS Tri-Action can effectively eliminate lateral string pull.
You can now get even tension across all your strings regardless of the neck profile of your guitar. It even comes equipped with an integrated pick holder. Customers were also delighted with the quality of this model so there is no reason not to put one in your gig bag and make the most out of your quality travel guitar.
Pros
This versatile option can be used on 6-string electric and acoustic guitars, and the micrometer tension adjustment will guarantee a buzz-free and in-tune performance at any fret.
The tri-action geometry will reduce the force needed to open and close the capo so that the unit can apply even tension regardless of neck profile.
Another advantage of this model is the premium construction that uses aircraft-grade aluminum so that you can enjoy a durable capo that won’t add too much weight to the neck of your guitar.
It offers easy one-handed use and you can quickly clamp it to the headstock when you’re not using it.
Cons
The rubber molding on the fret and neck side isn’t very durable and while you can glue it back on, this shouldn’t happen.
The spring could be a bit stronger since even if it functions well overall there are some instances where the intonation can get affected.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($17.79)
Nordic Essentials 2 Pack
If you like getting more value for your purchase, then the idea of getting two quality capos at the price of a single one should sound useful to you. For an affordable price, you get a pair of the company’s premium products that are compatible with numerous types of instruments.
Apart from guitars, this model can also be equipped to your favorite mandolin, banjo, ukulele, or bass. The frame features the use of aircraft grade aluminum that will ensure that this choice will give you thousands of hours of play. The pair is available in three distinct color versions so that you can get the one that works best for your guitar.
What’s more, the protective pads are made from silicone to ensure a tight grip that will not damage the strings or neck of your instrument in the process. You also get two carrying pouches to store and transport the capos.
Pros
You get a lot of value with this product since the pack of 2 capos is available at a very competitive price point.
These accessories are made from ultra-lightweight and durable aircraft-grade aluminum and each one weighs around 1.2 ounces.
It has an intuitive and easy-to-use design that can be released and repositioned quickly and easily with one hand without disturbing the tuning.
The model is available in 4 colors, namely blue and silver, green and blue, pink and purple, and red and gold so that you can get the one that goes best with your guitar.
It is suitable for most 6- and 12-string instruments.
Cons
This model is advertised as being compatible with ukuleles but while it works very well for guitars, it is too bulky to be used comfortably on a uke.
The rubber protector is a bit flimsy so you’ll need to be careful when releasing or repositioning the unit so that it doesn’t fall off.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($21.95)
Paige P6E 6-String
As the name suggests, this model is designed to work perfectly with 6-string guitars, and it comes with a sleek design that is easy to adjust and control. The quality of this unit can be attested by the fact that Paige has collected years of award-winning artist feedback when creating this innovative and affordable capo.
The direct-tension design will eliminate string buzz by pulling down on the strings from the center of the capo’s bar, rather than on the side like other alternatives do. You get an easy one-handed knurled-knob adjustment, and when not in use, you can park it behind the nut so that it is within easy reach when you need it again.
The no-nonsense design will ensure that the user will have no difficulties controlling and making precise adjustments. It moves quickly and can be operated with a one-handed action. Customers liked that this is one of the few capos that can apply 90-degree perpendicular squeeze evenly to the fretboard.
Pros
This model has a sleek design that is very easy to control and adjust, and it manages to control the string tension perfectly.
It may not have a clip-on design but that doesn’t mean that this option is not easy to use since you can re-fret it in seconds and store it behind the nut when you’re not using it.
This model moves quickly and the innovative design allows it to be operated using only one hand.
It is one of the few capos on the market in this price range that can apply a 90-degree perpendicular squeeze evenly across the fretboard.
Cons
The rubber sleeve wears out with time but Paige is very good with such issues and it will send you several rubber sleeves free of charge.
The design could use some improvements since the way it is now, it can’t get past the 5th or 7th fret on certain acoustic guitars.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($22.99)
Shubb S1 Stainless Steel
The Shubb alternative features a new roller design that is resistant to wear and that opens and closes more smoothly than the original capo. The restyled lever makes it much easier for the user to handle and adjust the product.
The capo’s fretting bar is held in place against the back of the neck with the help of a lever that has a soft rubber pad so that no metal touches your instrument, thus removing any chance of your guitar getting scratched. This model can be used to affect alternate tunings by attaching it while leaving one or two strings free. Other models cannot do this.
We found that customers were pleased with the functionality and the performance this particular choice offered. Users liked the very low profile of this option and the fact that you can line the end of the capo with the bottom edge of the fingerboard, allowing players to make fine adjustments.
Pros
The patented closing action is designed to provide the ideal pressure on the fretboard with each and every use so that you can keep that annoying buzzing and ringing sound at bay.
The quality soft rubber pads on the capo are as delicate as fingertips and they help fret the strings with even pressure without damaging your expensive instrument.
It can move up and down the neck easily and quickly so that you can place it anywhere on the instrument you want so that you can create the desired pitch.
It has a solid stainless steel construction for optimal durability and the perfect contact with your guitar’s fingerboard.
Cons
It is great for light acoustic guitar and electric guitar strings but for gauge acoustic strings this option does not provide the best performance since it is very hard to tighten the clamp down.
It doesn’t have the same adjustable range as other options do.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($17.49)
Jim Dunlop 83CB
You can’t go wrong by going with a Jim Dunlop option, as this is a brand that has a long history of over 50 years, and it is well-known for the superior quality and the intuitive design of the products it creates. The ergonomic shape and the padded handle make positioning the capo on the fret exceptionally easy.
The strong spring action clamps the unit firmly in place so that once secured, it will stay that way until you decide to take it off. Speaking of that, the easy on and off system allows users to handle this model with the use of a single hand.
The product is built from ruggedized aircraft quality aluminum with soft padding that will ensure that your instrument will not get damaged by the metal. This made in the USA option is built to work best with 6 and 12 string guitars.
Pros
If you’re in the market for an affordable guitar capo, then this model is the one to get since it provides excellent performance for a low price.
This unit can help you make quick key changes without re-tuning your guitar and it is very reliable and easy to use even by beginners.
It has a unique design that makes it ideal to use with curved fingerboards and its low profile will ensure that you’ll be able to play without the product getting in your way.
It has a durable yet lightweight construction made from aircraft aluminum which is protected by a soft padding for scratch-free performance.
This model is available in five colors: black, brown, gold, nickel, and smoked chrome.
Cons
The nickel color is not achieved with a nickel treatment on the steel, it is just a coat of silver that makes the unit look very cheap.
It doesn’t fit small acoustic guitars.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($12.39)
Fender Dragon Black
Whether you enjoy playing a classic acoustic guitar or an electric option, the Fender Dragon will provide you with the solid tuning stability required to perform naturally and effortlessly. The lightweight cast-aluminum capo is built to be as low profile as possible so that the user barely notices the presence of this sleek accessory.
Customers and experts alike praise this model for the way in which it can fit any neck shape, meaning that you can easily swap guitars mid-gig. It is also built to offer a comfortable and trouble-free experience which is why it can be operated with one hand. You can now comfortably snap your Fender Dragon capo while you’re mid-song.
What’s more, this option comes ready to use out of the package; there are no adjustments required. This feature makes it ideal for both amateur players that don’t feel comfortable tinkering with their instrument, but also for seasoned players that want a reliable capo that is ready to use at a moment’s notice.
Pros
This portable guitar capo is perfect for every player regardless of his or her skill level and it delivers the ideal performance for both acoustic and electric guitars.
It has a convenient micro-dial thumbscrew that is easy to use and lets you adjust the position of the capo quickly so that you can put the right amount of pressure at any fret.
You can use it without fear that it will damage your expensive instrument since this model is equipped with special protective pads that won’t harm the delicate finish on your guitar’s neck.
It is very small so that it doesn’t interfere with your playing and your fingers will forget that it is even there.
Cons
The build quality could have been better and the product does look a bit cheap and flimsy but given the low price we can’t complain too much.
It has some problems with clamping the 1st and 6th strings well.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($12.24)
Planet Waves NS Artist
The NS Artist is built to offer aspiring and seasoned musicians with a buzz-free, and in-tune performance on their favorite 6-string guitar. It mounts on the front of your fretboard, and the lightweight aluminum construction features Artist geometry that is easy on your hands, providing quick and effortless operation.
The micrometer tension adjustment assures that your guitar will be in-tune as long as the capo is installed. The lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum construction will not add too much extra weight to your instrument. It also helps that the model features a low-profile design so that the user doesn’t even notice the capo is attached to the fret.
You can use the Planet Waves alternative with both acoustic and electric guitars, and the single hand operation will ensure that you will be able to swap between instruments with close to no effort. What’s more, if you are a beginner, this unit works perfectly out of the box, as no adjustments are required unless you feel comfortable to do so.
Pros
This model is designed for use on classical guitars that have flat, non-radiused fretboards and the micrometer tension adjustments will guarantee a buzz-free and in-tune performance.
This model is very easy to use and it can be adjusted using just one hand, and when you’re not using it, you can clamp it to the headstock so that you can always have it ready to use.
Once placed properly on the fretboard, it provides even tension across all strings so that players barely need to touch the tuners.
When compared to other trigger-style models, this option uses a more straight-down clamping angle and you can adjust the tension via the dial and you don’t need to remove the capo to do it.
Cons
It is a bit more expensive than your regular guitar capo but it does boast some nice features.
It can be a bit awkward to use if you need to move the capo rapidly from one fret to another.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($24.99)
D’Addario Accessories PW-CP-18
With the help of the stainless steel and self-centering design, the D’Addario Accessories option ensures even tension across the fretboard for a buzz-free and in-tune performance. The adjustable micrometer lets the user dial in the ideal pressure, while still allowing the freedom for quick transitions and the ability of it to stay on the guitar even when not in use.
The PW-CP-18 is a promising product that was created with the joint effort of the famed designer Ned Steinberger and Jim D’Addario. When not in use, instead of relying on carry pouches that can be misplaced or lost, you can store it above the guitar nut.
The durable stainless steel construction will ensure that you can get many years of use out of this variant since it is built to resist wear and nicks. The roller mechanism provides an ultimately smooth operation by further reducing wear while adding smoothness to the closing and opening action.
Pros
With this option, you get one of the most innovative professional guitar capos available on the market that manages to deliver exceptional performance.
It has an always-ready design with a self-centering cradle that delivers even tension across the entire fretboard.
When you are not using the accessory you can store it just above the guitar nut so that you can always have it ready to use and not have to waste more time searching for it in your guitar case.
It is made from premium stainless steel that ensures more durability, and the professional craftsmanship of the capo makes this one of the best-looking models you can get.
Cons
There is no way to hide the price of this model and while it does offer great performance and a beautiful design, it can be hard to justify spending this much for it.
It’s quite hard to set this capo on guitars that have a small neck.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($69.99)
HIGHROCK Single Handed
Ever wondered what the lowest price for a decent capo is? With the HIGHROCK alternative, you get one of the cheapest models available on the market. While other models may come with a similar price tag, this is one of the few that both customers and experts recommend.
Despite the crazy low price, this variant comes with all the crucial features that a quality capo needs to work correctly. The grip is good, the build quality is exceptionally sturdy, and the paddings are soft and comfortable and will not damage your instrument. What’s more, the design of the HIGHROCK is not bad at all; it looks quite elegant.
The device uses the Quick Release technology that allows it to be placed anywhere on the fretboard. To make things even better, while for such a low price you might expect a plastic body, the manufacturer has chosen instead to use sturdy steel.
Pros
It is one of the most economical models that you can find right now on the market and despite its very low price point it still manages to include most of the current important characteristics.
It is small in size which makes it very convenient to use and portable and it won’t get in your way while you play the guitar.
You can release and reposition this option quickly and easily without disturbing the tuning of your guitar.
The padding is soft and comfortable so that you don’t need to worry that this capo will damage your instrument.
While you might expect a plastic construction, this model uses durable stainless steel instead.
Cons
The tension is a bit too grippy at first but it will smoothen out after working the spring in.
It is not the most durable option out there, so don’t expect it to last you for years.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($4.76)
Yearly Guide & Report
Finding the right guitar capo is not as easy as it might first appear. Nowadays there are more options available than ever before, and that makes settling for just one device a lot harder than you thought. If you are a beginner, things can become even more difficult since there are many types of capos available and other in-depth technical specifications that need to be considered.
To make things easier for you, and because we know just how difficult researching on your own can be, we have gathered all the useful information in our buyer’s guide below. Here you will learn the basics of capos, how to use one, and which type you should choose depending on your instrument and your play style.
What is a capo and how to pick the right one
Capo is short for capotasto which in Italian means “head of the fretboard.” A guitar capo is basically a clamp that is used on the neck of the guitar to shorten the playable length of the open strings, and thus raise their pitch by a chosen amount. Therefore, the player has the opportunity to change the various keys without having to move the fingers to switch positions.
Another reason to use a capo is to avoid using bar chords. Since this nifty device does all the hard work for you, it will take the place of the bar you would create with your finger, saving you a lot of energy. You can also use a capo to create more exciting guitar parts when playing with another player.
It is worth noting that capos are not only used for guitars, they also work on the lute, mandolin, mandola, ukulele, banjo, Greek Bouzouki and many other instruments. Indeed, if you have a large collection at home, you can go with a versatile product that can be used with all of them.
It is crucial that the capo distributes the pressure of the strings equally along each fret, especially if you have a guitar with a curved back. By doing this, you will prevent buzzing from strings that aren’t held tight. This way you can make sure that the strings won’t be pulled out of tune by a capo that has a robust clamping mechanism.
You should also never be afraid to experiment with different tunes and types of capos. Finding the right capos takes a lot of trial and error, so don’t feel discouraged if your first purchase is not what you’ve expected. Similarly, you should always make sure the rubber on the capo is sufficient to keep the finish on the guitar’s neck protected.
Types of Capos
Since capos add a whole new dimension of creativity, they are more often than not considered as one of the most valuable accessories that you can get as a guitar player. Just as is the case with any guitar accessory, capos too come in different forms and shapes built to cater to specific instruments and musicians.
The spring-loaded guitar capo is built for speed and players that like to do things in record time. It is very easy to put it on and remove from the guitar, which is a primary reason why this type is so popular. This variant also comes with a simple design, and since there aren’t many moving parts to worry about, it can be used by people of all skills.
The C-Clamp is an option built for the advanced musicians since it comes with the ability to adjust the pressure exerted on the strings at all times. For people that perform live often, the C-Clamp is a rugged version that will never fail on you. The added performance and reliability make it require more effort to put on and remove from your guitar.
Finally, we have the toggle capos which are ideal for people that travel a lot and want a device that is affordable, compact and easy to put on. While they do not offer the best performance since the pressure distribution is inconsistent and they can come loose and bend easily, they are so affordable that it never hurts to have a few for practice and learning purposes.
Don’t forget about your playing style
Getting the right model that can fit and work with your instrument properly is half the battle. To ensure that you will get the most out of your new purchase and that you will enjoy playing it for years to come, you should also consider what your playing style is.
Do you want a flexible capo that can be placed anywhere on the fretboard and that allows string selection? Maybe you want increased sustain and a low profile? Perhaps you prefer speed instead of fine-tuning? These are all question that you should try and answer before spending money on a product.
For players that enjoy speed, there are many spring-tension capos, also called “quick change” or “trigger.” These models are built to be easy to move and can be extremely accurate when placed with care behind the fret. Unfortunately, since they are not adjustable, if poorly placed they can pull strings out of tune.
If you are not in a hurry and you enjoy fine-tuning your instrument, some clamp-style capos have fine-tuning thumbscrews, while others can be adjusted with a screw mechanism. These systems allow the player to maintain good intonation. The only downside is that placement can take more time.
Don’t forget that the profile of the product also plays an important role. Depending on your hand placement, you can find specific contours easier to use than others. Options that feature screw adjustment can get in the way of your palm.
To get a unit you will feel comfortable using, you should compare profiles, consider the position of your hand, and never be afraid to experiment and try as many products as possible. You might find that the option that you never even considered is the one that works best for you.
Pros and cons of each type of guitar capo available
Just earlier, you’ve learned that there are several types of capos available. But which one is the best guitar capo you can get? The answer can depend on several factors, which is why it is necessary that you have a clear idea of the pros and cons of each type available. Some may be good for acoustic and electric guitars just the same, but others can work only for certain guitar types, and that’s something to bear in mind.
- Spring-loaded capos
Planet Waves is one of the companies that make such models and does so with great success. This type is very popular due to the simple design, and the built-in spring makes it easy for you to put the capo on and remove it as needed.
Pros:
You can remove the capo with ease, even while still playing
You only need one hand to manipulate it
It is affordable, and for many guitar players, that makes this type the best guitar capo
Cons:
Players cannot freely adjust the pressure
Some models might cause the strings to bend if not manipulated carefully
The robust construction is definitely not low profile
There is something to add here. If you don’t like the fact that the guitar capo can’t be adjusted with this type of design, you can always go for a dual-action model. Planet Waves makes such models, and you can find in their selection models for both acoustic and electric guitars. However, some people might not like the string-bending potential, especially if they got the best guitar for their needs. You can get a model made only for an acoustic guitar, as well.
- C-clamp capos
Other people may argue that the best guitar capo must be the C-clamp type. This guitar capo has a particular design, and it works with a screw that helps with adjusting the pressure on the strings.
Pros:
You can count on this model to be durable as it has a reliable construction
Your guitar won’t go out of tune as often as it might happen with other guitar capo models
Since it has a compact design, you will find it more manageable
Cons:
Working with this type of capo might require a learning process
More often than not, they are more expensive than other types
Twisting the screw may require you to stop in the middle of playing
For the best guitar you can get, you should get a capo to match. That’s why you should consider the C-clamp design. Because of its durability and low profile, it could be easily considered the best guitar capo out there.
- Toggle capos
The debate over the best guitar capo is quite heated, as some people opt in favor of toggle models. You can get one for your acoustic guitar. While Planet Waves is known more for its spring-loaded and dual-action models, there are other manufacturers like Dunlop that make these capos.
Pros:
They are the cheapest you can find
Because of their low profile, you will find it easy to play your guitar
Cons:
The construction of such a guitar capo is generally not very durable
You might bend the strings by accident
You should opt for this type of capo only if you don’t intend to use it on the best guitar in your possession. Because of how cheap it is, it could be considered an option for beginners. Still, the fact that it can bend the strings shouldn’t be overlooked.
Several aspects to focus on to get the best guitar capo
It is essential that your acoustic guitar or electric model doesn’t end up out of tune when using a capo. That’s why models made by companies like Planet Waves come highly recommended. They are sturdy, they don’t get in the way of your playing style, and they have a reduced potential of bending your strings.
Here are some things you need to concentrate on if you want to make the best out of your capo. When you clamp the guitar capo on your instrument. Even if you play the best guitar you have, if you’re not careful, you’ll end up with an instrument out of tune. That’s one rule to obey.
Your technique matters a great deal when you play the guitar. The same rule applies for both acoustic and electric instruments. The point is that the best guitar capo is the one that doesn’t get in the way of your playing technique. The best guitar can be even better if you choose the right capo for your style.
Make sure that the capo doesn’t scratch the surface of your fretboard. That depends on the construction of your capo, but also on how sturdy the instrument is. An acoustic guitar might be easier to scratch than other instruments, which is why you should invest in a guitar capo that won’t leave unsightly marks.
Using a capo the safe way
Here are some extra recommendations you can use to make sure that your acoustic guitar won’t end up playing out of tune. Acoustic and electric guitars alike can sound better or allow you to play in more diverse styles with the help of a capo, but not if you’re not careful.
When you install the capo, make sure that the strings don’t end up making a buzzing sound. That’s a sign that you’re doing it wrong. With both acoustic and electric instruments, this is a valid recommendation. The best guitar capo may perform poorly if you don’t install it correctly. Place the capo close to the metal fret to acquire the desired effect. Your acoustic guitar will be able to create some interesting sounds if you do that correctly.
Just like you opt for the best guitar for your skill level, you should do the same when choosing a capo. Go for a Planet Waves model if you want sturdiness and reliability. Also, pick one that works for acoustic and electric instruments alike if you prefer versatility.
Frequently asked questions
Q: What is a guitar capo?
A capo is a small accessory for your guitar that clamps down across the fretboard at a particular fret. They can be operated either by means of springs or threaded or elastic bolts but regardless of their construction, capos all serve the same purpose: namely to shorten the length of all the guitar strings and raise their pitch.
Usually, a guitar capo is fastened across all the strings of the instrument but it is also possible to use it on only some strings, not all of them, although this is less often the case. The capo will let guitarists play standard open chord voicing and change the key to let vocalists match pitch with very little effort.
For example, if you place a capo on the first fret while playing an open G chord voicing, the result will be an A-flat key which would be very difficult to play without the help of this nifty accessory.
Q: Why should you use a capo on a guitar?
The main reason to use a capo is to change the key of a song instantly. This way you can find the key that’s perfect for your vocal range by simply moving the capo to any fret and sliding it up and down the neck.
A capo can also give your guitar a brighter sound and you can make your instrument sound more like a mandolin. This is very useful if you have two guitarists playing a song together since one can play with a capo and one without it, and this will create a beautiful and striking effect.
Since a capo can move the frets closer together as you go higher up the neck, this can make playing the guitar much more manageable especially for beginners. Having a capo attached to the neck will require less stretching in the left hand and that will make it easier to play certain songs.
Q: Do beginners need a capo?
A beginner does not need to learn how to use a capo but this device can be useful since it gives an easy way to play in other keys without learning new chords. This can help you match an experienced singer with your early skills.
The issue with this is that while at first, it may seem like a huge advantage, it can also turn into a big downside since using a capo can easily become a learning prevention tool. This is the reason why many music instructors don’t recommend beginners to use a capo.
It can be useful when used sparingly, but relying too much on it can slow your learning experience down. Thus, as a beginner, you do not need to invest in a capo if you don’t need it, but there’s nothing stopping you from getting one if you wish to. Most tutors would advise that as a beginner, it is much better to invest your time and money in lessons and practice.
Q: Does leaving a capo on damage the strings?
Leaving the capo on while playing the guitar will not damage your strings but you shouldn’t leave the capo on the fretboard when you’re not using the instrument. It may not damage the strings visibly but it will certainly wear them out which in time will lead to damage if you continue to leave the capo on all the time.
When clamped on the neck, the capo will hold the strings down and create extra tension on the top and neck of the guitar. While all guitars are destined to have problems at some point in time due to the tension of the strings, using a capo all the time can hasten the process.
Instead, you should remove the capo off your fretboard after you are done playing the instrument. This shouldn’t be a problem since most of the products currently on the market are designed to be stored behind the nut when not in use.
Q: What’s the difference between guitar capos?
There are 3 different types of guitar capos. There’s the spring-loaded guitar capo which is designed for guitarists who need to do things fast. It can be put in and removed from the guitar in just a few seconds and the simple design that uses few moving parts makes this type of capo very easy to use by people of all skills.
The C-Clamp is a type of capo that more advanced guitarists use since it comes with the ability to adjust the pressure exerted on the strings. It is an ideal choice for live performances but the added features make it more difficult to put on and remove.
Lastly, the toggle capos are perfect for guitarists who travel a lot and want to get a product that is not only easy to put on and compact, but also affordable. It may not offer the best performance but this type is excellent for practice and learning purposes.
Bibliography:
1) A capo gives the guitar a brighter sound
2) Why do we use capo in guitar?
3) Does a capo change the key?
4) What does a capo do to chords?
5) Reasons Why Using a Capo is Great for Your Guitar Playing
