How to Capo BB

James Blunt using a capo on the second fret, the F-sharp position.

A capo is a small, clamp-like device that "stops" the strings across the entire fretboard. Typically the capo is used to transpose the open string. This is a convenient approach to transposing a song to a different key without working out a new set of chords or adjusting the guitar's natural tuning. By placing the capo on the sixth fret, the notes that on the third fret of each string function as open strings. If you play an open E major chord with the capo here, it becomes a Bb (or B flat) chord. This is known as the "Bb capo position."

Things You'll Need

• Capo
• Guitar tuner
• Instrument cable

Instructions

1. Tune the guitar. Plug into an electronic tuner or attach a clip-on tuner to the headstock, if using an acoustic guitar. Start with the bottom E string, tighten the tuning machine to correct flat notes, and loosen the tuning machine to correct sharp notes.

2. Fasten the capo between the fifth and sixth fret, where you would play Bb. Position it in the center, parallel to the frets. The method of fitting the capo varies according to the design. Typically you squeeze the curved arm and the handle together to open the capo, then lay it so the top bar sits padded side down on the strings and release. Some have a thumb-screw mechanism for tightening, in which case you don't squeeze. Lay the top arm of the capo on the strings and turn the thumb-screw clockwise to tighten it.

3. Check each string for buzz. Play each open string and listen. If there is a buzz, adjust the position of the capo so it gets a better grip on the strings. If using a screw-on capo, tension it tighter when repositioning.

4. Check the tuning again. Because the capo applies down-force to the strings, it is possible that it will force some of your strings moderately sharp. This happens most often to the top E and bottom E strings. Play the open strings and observe the tuner reading. Note that the note readings will be different. They will be Bb, Eb, Ab, Db, F and Bb. Each string should be perfectly on the note. If not, make a note of which strings are out and whether they are sharp or flat.

5. Remove the capo and make small tuning adjustments to compensate for the down-force of the capo. For example, if the tuner indicated that the second string was a slightly sharp F, loosen the tuning machine to make it slightly flat.

6. Reattach the capo and check the tuning again. You may need to make a series of small tuning adjustments to get the balance right.

Tips & Warnings

• Use sticky-tape to clean lint from the padded side of the capo.

References

• Cyber Fret: Using a Guitar Capo
• Guitar Theory in Depth: Guitar Fretboard Chart
• I Love Guitar: Guitar Capo