I’m going to answer these questions: What does a capo do on guitar? Why do you use a capo? What capo should I buy? I’d also like to share with you 3 reasons why you should get a capo for acoustic guitar. Finally, I’m going to show you some options for good quality, affordable capos that will last a lifetime. Learn how to use a capo on the guitar.
FREE PDF Songbook
Play 15 iconic songs on guitar — starting with just 2 chords
- Play your first complete song today – even as a total beginner
- Build real skills (chord switching, strumming, rhythm) through music you love
- Sound like a real guitarist from your very first practice session
Table of Contents
- 0:00 – Intro
- 0:31 – Do I need a Capo for Guitar?
- 1:38 – Which guitar capo should I get?
- 2:17 – The most affordable capo for guitar
- 3:24 – The most versatile capo
- 5:00 – An adjustable capo
A capo is an essential tool for acoustic guitarists, and today we’ll discuss three different types: an affordable option, a versatile one, and one with a unique mechanism. First, let’s quickly answer a common question: why would anyone need a capo?
A capo allows you to raise the key of a song without learning new chord shapes, making it easier to match your singing voice. It’s also necessary for certain songs, particularly fingerstyle and chord melodies. The first capo is a budget-friendly option you can find on Amazon for under $10. It’s a spring-loaded capo, which is easy to use but can sometimes oversqueeze the strings, causing them to go sharp. Despite its affordable price and basic construction, it’s a practical choice for occasional use.
The second capo is the Ernie Ball Axis Capo, known for its versatility. It features a dual-sided design with one curved side and one flat side, making it suitable for various fretboard shapes. It’s easy to use, doesn’t require much grip strength, and costs under $30.
Lastly, the Shubb capo has a unique latching mechanism that allows for adjustable tension, preventing oversqueezing and reducing the need to retune. It’s durable, with replaceable rubber sleeves, and costs about $25. Though it requires more setup and isn’t as versatile as the Ernie Ball Axis, its precise tension control makes it a great option.
