Rating of the best capos for 2020

Capo - an additional accessory for guitar, mandolin, banjo, allows you to quickly and easily change the key of the instrument. After reviewing the ranking of the best capos for 2020, you can choose the appropriate clip for a specific type of guitar.

What is "capo"

From the Latin language it means the upper mode (saro - top, head, tasto - upper). Capo is a small device that is attached to the neck of a string-plucked musical instrument (guitar, ukulele, mandolin). Other names for the device are capo, clothespin, clip.

Clamp function - fast key change. The device clamps the strings on the fretboard, changes the tone of the sound. If the musical instrument is tuned to the sound "E" (E), and the key is "G", the capo must be set to the 3rd fret.

Capos are used on various stringed and plucked instruments - guitar, banjo, mandolin, bouzuka, ukulele.

Guitar structure

The capo is mounted on the neck of the guitar. Neck, body are the two main parts of a guitar.

The neck is divided by projections - metal plates (sills). The distance between two adjacent sills is fret. First fret is the distance between the first nut and the headstock. Tuning of strings, tuning of tuning, playing of musical pieces takes place here.

The tool body consists of:

• bottom deck - reverse side (professional sounding - mahogany wood);
• top deck - front wall, sound quality, timbre depends on the type of wood (acoustic - plywood, high-quality - alpine spruce, cedar);
• shell - connects the lower, upper decks;
• resonator hole, socket;
• the bottom nut is a plastic (bone) plate;
• stand (bridge) - a wooden plate that holds taut strings, gives rigidity to the body;
• katavei (cutout) - available in pop models, allows you to play the top notes.

What are the capos

From the material used, size, mechanism of action, four main types of capos are distinguished:

1. Elastic.
2. Spring (clothespins).
3. Plastic (latches).
4. Screw.

Elastic (soft)

Consists of a strap (metal, plastic), which is attached to the neck with an elastic band, strap, Velcro. The compression of the strings is regulated by the tension of the elastic band, the strap attachments. These clips are budgetary (the lowest cost), do not spoil the back of the neck, are lightweight, have an interesting design (various colors), adapt to the shape of the neck (flat, curved).

But they wear out quickly, it takes time to fix, it is difficult to adjust the force of pressing the strings for a long time.

Spring (clothespins)

The body is made of metal (steel, aluminum), rubber pads - protection of the back of the profile, strings from damage.The principle of operation is a clothespin, which is attached to the neck with a spring. The main advantage is simple, easy installation, clamp removal. It is the best option for live performances, concerts. Disadvantage - you cannot change the pressure force (depends on the spring), uneven pressure on the strings is possible (low-quality models).

Plastic (latches)

They consist of a plastic plate that closes with a latch (teeth). Protects the surface from damage to the strings with rubber, silicone pads. They have a low cost, compact size, lightweight structures, but break quickly - plastic teeth break, wear off.

Screw

Made of metal (aluminum alloys, steel), durable, have a different structure. The main element is the screw that secures the metal bar (with additional overlays) to the back of the neck. Popular with professional musicians, the force of the strings can be adjusted. Minus - it takes time to remove, install the device yourself.

There are capo options for different types of guitars:

• classic models - flat neck, medium clamping force;
• acoustic - rounded neck, medium clamping force;
• 12 strings - strong clamp;
• custom tuning - average strength on selected strings.

Modern capo types can adjust several strings (individual tuning of each selected string) due to the shortened working surface, freely move along the entire length of the profile (roller design). The new items have a built-in tuner (tuning at different noise and light levels).

Why use

A device that quickly changes the key of a musical instrument is necessary for a beginner, a professional musician:

1. Selection of the key of the song for convenient vocal performance (coordination of accompaniment, voice).
2. Difference (emphasis) among the instruments of the orchestra.
3. Performing solo compositions (blues, country, rock, flamenco).
4. Working out heavy chords (without barre reception).

Buying Tips

Before buying, you need to familiarize yourself with the main types of kapos, study their features. Main principles:

• capo must match the model of the musical instrument (type of guitar, type of neck);
• take into account the number, size, material of strings (nylon, metal);
• choose light, small-sized models - should not interfere with the game;
• take into account the frequency, area of ​​use, experience of the game (beginner, recording of musical works, performance at concerts);
• explore the range of specialized stores, the ability to order a suitable model online;
• get acquainted with the models of well-known manufacturers;
• correct pressing force - after installing the clamp, the sound volume remains the same, there is no extraneous hum, the tuning does not change after removing the clothespin;
• take the tool with you to the store for fitting;
• shoot after rehearsals, concerts - it will last longer.

You can choose the model you need on the websites of music stores, online services for the sale of goods (Yandex-market, Aliexpress).

DIY capo

The clamp can be made on your own, at home, using materials at hand. Self-made devices do not last long, but they give a beginner an opportunity to practice, to continue working on a melody if the device suddenly breaks down.

Option 1.

You need 1 simple wooden pencil (lighter, ballpoint pen), colored rubber band (string, piece of soft wire).

Instructions:

• fold the gum several times - tight sticking of the pencil;
• wind an elastic band on one side of the pencil;
• place the pencil on the fretboard (select the desired fret);
• secure the other end of the pencil with an elastic band;
• adjustment - pass the second pencil through the elastic band on the back, scroll.

Option 2.

You need an adhesive tape, a plastic felt-tip pen, a proofreader. May damage the reverse side (adhesive side of the tape). Manufacturing instruction:

1. Attach a plastic felt-tip pen in the desired place on the profile.
2. Wrap tape around the edge of the felt-tip pen.
3. Attach the other end of the marker to the fretboard.

Installation

Any capo (purchased, professional, homemade) is installed on fret sills, put on from top to bottom. The bindings are directed upwards (at the base - maximum pressure, thick strings). Lefties are provided with models that can be installed simultaneously from the bottom and from the top.

If high sound is required, place the clamp further from the profile head.

The frets are used for playing, which are located after clamping to the socket (frets are not played after the clothespin).

Check - play a few chords, analyze the pitch, the presence of extraneous noise. If the sound is dull, the strings are pressed against the nut. It is necessary to move the clamp by the fret saddle. If rattling is heard, the capo is located far from the nut.

Selecting the required key - play the chords after installing the capo. If the tonality is not suitable, change the location of the device.

Rating of the best capos for 2020

The review of high-quality models of clamps is compiled according to the popularity among buyers of online stores, the Yandex market platform. Product material - metal (steel, aluminum alloy).

For acoustic guitar

5th place Alice A007D / SL-A

Manufacturer - Alice (China). Material - chrome-plated metal. Fixed with a spring. Quickly installed, spring removed. Additional protection - black rubber pads.

Packing - blister. Weight - 0.084 kg.

• easy to install, remove;
• profile protection with rubber pads;
• low cost.

• not found.

4th place Alice AWR01-A / BK

Manufactured by Alice (China). The material is lightweight, durable aluminum alloy. The edges of the clamp are polished, smooth. The fastening is reliable.

Weight - 0.060 kg. The warranty period is 6 months.

• lightweight;
• smooth edges of the clamp;
• low price.

• not found.

3rd place KYSER KG6TDA

Manufacturer - KYSER (USA). Material - aluminum. Rounded shapes - hand-sanded. Drawing - TIE-DYE (print of hippie culture).

Clamp weight, packaging - 0.090 kg.

• the ability to play in any key;
• easy installation, removal;
• unique drawing.

• not found.

2nd place KYSER KG6EG

Made by the famous American company KYSER. Material - aluminum. Color - emerald green. The QUICK-CHANGE system was used (from English - quick change).

Weight (packing, clamp) - 0, 090 kg.

• quickly strengthens;
• easy to use;
• robust construction.

• high price.

1st place KYSER KG6LTA

The American manufacturer is KYSER. Universal model - suitable for acoustic, electric guitars. Manual assembly of aluminum parts. Color - matt black. The voltage is 25% less than other models.

The warranty is 12 months.

• suitable for different types of guitars;
• easy installation, use;
• less voltage - less often setting.

• high price.

For electric guitar

5th JOYO JCP-01 Silver Light Capo

Manufacturer - JOYO (China). Material - light colored plastic. The mechanism is spring-loaded. Silicone pads do not damage profile, strings.

• comfortable handles;
• silicone pads;
• low cost.

• material - plastic.

4th place Planet Waves PW-CP-10NSM

Manufacturer - Planet Waves brand (USA). Universal model - fits 6-string acoustic, electric guitars. In addition, it contains a PLANET WAVES PW-CT-12 tuner-clothespin, a bracket (for attaching the tuner to the capo).

Tuner display - backlit. Can be adjusted for different lighting, noise levels. There is a highly sensitive transducer (piezo - element).

The Tri-Action design is used - you can apply 3 times less force.

Material - black aluminum. Locking with a spring. Profile protection from damage - rubber pads.

Packing - blister. Weight - 0.730 kg.

• can be used on acoustic, electric guitars;
• additional tuner;
• quick installation, adjustment under different conditions.

• high price.

3rd place Dunlop 87 B Trigger Electric Curved Black

Manufacturer Dunlop (USA). Model for electric guitars, with a curved neck. Material - black aviation aluminum. There is a gasket (protection of strings, profile). Spring mechanism.

• quick installation, change;
• thin profile does not interfere;
• does not spoil the neck, strings.

• not found.

2nd place Dunlop 87N

Manufactured by the American company Dunlop. Material - lightweight, durable aluminum (duralumin). Available in black (B), nickel plated (N). The mechanism is a dense spring. For electric guitar, curved profile. Extra rubber pads - scratch protection.

• reliable;
• quickly removed, installed;
• fits snugly on the neck.

• high price.

1st place Kyser KGEB

Manufacturer: KYSER (USA).

Designed for electric guitars. Material - lightweight black aluminum. Proprietary QUICK-CHANGE design - quick installation, easy handling, compact size.

The warranty is 6 months.

• easy installation;
• does not interfere with the game;
• manual processing of parts.

• high price.

For ukulele

5th Ortega OCAPOUKE-BCR

Represented by Ortega (Indonesia). Product material - aluminum alloy, black chrome finish. There are silicone pads (anti-scratch).

Banjo (flat pad) fits.

Weight - 0.1 kg. Gift box - black cardboard box.

• simple functionality;
• universal application;
• gift wrap.

• not found.

4th place ALICE A007P / BK

Made by ALICE (China). Black metal clip. There are blue rubber pads.

Packing - blister.

• reliable clamp;
• good price.

• not found.

3rd place ALICE A007R / BK

Released by the Chinese company ALICE. Material - black metal. There are rubber protective pads. Screw mechanism.

Packed in a blister.

• affordable cost;
• user-friendly design.

• not found.

2nd place KYSER KULEA

Manufacturer - American company KYSER (USA). The material is lightweight aluminum. Color - Hawaiian motives. Available in three colors: pastel hibiscus, red hibiscus, and hawaiian flower garland. The mechanism is a spring. Hand grinding.

Compact size, weaker spring tension. Suitable for banjo, mandolin.

The warranty is 6 months.

• suitable for instruments with a small flat neck;
• there are three color options;
• convenient to use;
• reliable material.

• high price.

1st place KYSER KBMBA

The manufacturer is the KYSER company (USA). Material - black aluminum. Universal option for ukulele, mandolin, banjo. The mechanism of action is a spring clip. There is a soft pad (protection).

The warranty is 6 months.

• suitable for mandolin, banjo;
• simple, convenient use;
• reliable system, material;
• there is a warranty period.

• not found.

Output

The correct choice of clamping the strings will allow you to change the key, adapt to the performer's vocals, play bright solo parts in concerts of jazz, rock music. Knowing the structural features, the mechanism of action, you can quickly choose the right tool that will serve for a long time.