Capos

A capo is a clamp that attaches to your guitar's neck, pressing all the strings down across a specific fret. This raises the pitch of the open strings, allowing you to play familiar chord shapes in new keys without retuning your guitar. More adventurous players also use capos to unlock new chord voicings, open-string textures, and melodic possibilities higher up the neck.

There are three main types of guitar capos: screw, trigger, and cradle. Each uses a different mechanism to apply pressure to the strings, but all serve the same purpose.

• Screw capos use an adjustable knob to fine-tune the tension, making them ideal for players who prioritize tuning accuracy.
• Trigger capos use a spring-loaded handle that lets you attach or reposition the capo with one hand, making them a popular choice for live performers.
• Cradle capos wrap around the back of the neck and lock into place with an adjustable arm, providing even tension and the convenience of storing the capo behind the nut when it's not in use.

Position the capo just behind the fret, not directly on top of it. That's where your finger naturally presses a string when you’re fretting a note, so placing the capo there helps produce the cleanest sound.

A well-designed capo shouldn't significantly affect tuning when used correctly. All D'Addario capos feature adjustable tension, allowing you to dial in just the right amount of pressure for a clear sound and in tune performances.

Spring capos apply a fixed amount of pressure, while adjustable capos let you fine-tune the tension for your specific guitar. Adjustable models provide better tuning stability and more consistent performance.

Many capos work well on both, but neck shapes and string gauges can vary. A capo with adjustable tension makes it easy to find the right fit for either instrument.

Yes, while you're playing. But for long-term storage, it's best to remove the capo to avoid leaving constant pressure on the string, neck, and capo pad.

Buzzing is usually caused by placing the capo too far from the fret or by using too little pressure. Position the capo close behind the fret and make sure it's applying enough tension to fret every string cleanly.

A capo with adjustable tension is the best choice, since it can distribute pressure more evenly across all 12 strings. The D'Addario Pro Plus Capo is designed to provide consistent pressure while minimizing the need to retune.

Some capos work on instruments like banjo or mandolin, but the best results come from using a capo designed for that instrument's neck shape and width. D'Addario offers instrument-specific capos for a precise fit.

If you want fast, one-handed operation, a trigger capo is hard to beat. D'Addario Trigger Capos combine that convenience with adjustable tension, giving you quick changes without sacrificing tuning stability. If you prefer a traditional trigger design, choose the Artist Capo. If you'd rather have the handle face toward you, the Tri-Action Capo offers the same performance in a different ergonomic orientation.