A Beginner’s Guide To Capos: Versatility
Key To Diverse Playing: Capo Basics
Capos (from the Italian capotasto), also weirdly called fret lobsters function as tools that shorten guitar strings. They clamp down over a string’s frets. Basically, the device is one of simplifying, as one can change key and pitch without retuning the guitar. They can also be used for other stringed instruments like the banjo and even mandolin. Several different styles exist with different mechanisms. The capo functions as a very simple machine. Folk, rock and flamenco have been known as styles that heavily use the capo, while classical and Jazz styles rarely use the device. Capos will allow you to play a song without learning it in different keys if you work with vocals that utilize different pitches. These devices will allow you to accommodate the singer without all the fuss.
Capos also reduce the fumbling associated with difficult chords. A capo can reduce a crazy Bb to a progression as simple as an A chord.
Keep this fact in mind. Occasionally capos are designed specifically for electric while others are designed for acoustic. Always try out different models when you visit the music shop before purchase.
Clamping Down Capo Style
Most capos utilize a rubber covered bar to hold the desired strings down. The bar is held down by elastic, nylon or another metal bar that mechanically clamps down. The capo placement is always closest to the fret as absolutely possible. String timbre changes as scale length changes by capo. Basically, one can make the guitar resemble a mandolin!
Capo manufacturers strongly recommend that one does not tune their guitar a tone above below standard guitar tuning. This will wrack stress upon the neck and possibly can damage the guitar.
Poor Man’s Capo
If one wants to down home folksy or is just plain poor, you can make a capo out of a simple pencil and rubber band. Obviously, these are not the most reliable yet will allow specific experimentation. All one has to do for the home made capo is place the pencil over the specific fret you want clamped. Then simply, tie the rubber band around both pencil ends and underneath the fret board. Now, you’ll be in a different pitch and key!
Available Capo Types
Partial capos exist also, which are fitted to individually stop strings down, instead of all them clamped with the same bar. Supposedly, this allows more diversify sounds among a versatile producing device. These capos are more commonly used on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th strings for best use.
Capos with two rollers allow a quicker change of key, which entails one over the neck and one under, allowing less awkwardness and more proficiency. Another benefit of two rollers allows one not to sacrifice drone strings.
Available Brands
Shubb Capos manufacture high quality affordable capos. This company actually designs capos to the type of strings a guitar uses and even specializes in banjo specialty versions. They also make vintage capos for thick necks and even dobros.
Elliot capos actually hand make stainless steel capos. The independent manufacturer also customizes to your needs.
To Clamp or Not
Guitar capos are not necessarily essential, yet these simple tools will allow you not to be left behind. When playing a show one does not want to have to sit there and tune their guitar to different keys and pitches. This is one sure way to make an audience annoyed! So clamp down your guitar capo and prepare yourself for the twists and turns that may happen in any playing situation! Good Luck.
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