What is the Kyser 12 String Capo made from?

The capo is constructed from lightweight aluminium, which provides a balance of durability and ease of use without adding excessive weight to the guitar neck.

Can I use this capo with one hand?

Yes, it is specifically designed for single-hand operation, allowing you to quickly move it to any fret position during a performance.

Is this capo suitable for a standard 6-string guitar?

While it can be used on a 6-string, it is specifically engineered with the length and tension required for 12-string guitars. A dedicated 6-string model may be more comfortable for standard instruments.

How many semitones can I raise the tuning?

You can raise the tuning by as many semitones as your guitar neck allows by clamping the capo on the desired fret position.

What colour is this specific model?

This specific model comes in a classic black finish, which is a popular choice for its discrete and professional appearance.

Does the capo require manual tension adjustment?

No, it uses a fixed-spring trigger mechanism that provides the necessary pressure automatically once clamped onto the neck.

How does this capo affect the guitar's voicing?

By changing the length of the vibrating strings, it allows for a multitude of new voicings and higher-pitched tonal characteristics while maintaining standard chord shapes.

Is the Kyser 12 String Capo durable?

Yes, it is described as a sturdy device made from aluminium that is designed to stand the test of time even with frequent use.

Where can I store the capo when not playing?

The spring-loaded design allows it to be clamped onto the headstock of the guitar, or it can be easily carried in a standard gigbag.

Does it work on electric 12-string guitars?

It is primarily designed for the neck profiles of 12-string guitars. While it may fit some electric models, it is most commonly used with acoustic 12-string instruments.

Will this capo cause string buzzing on a 12-string?

It is specifically built with the tension required to press down all twelve strings firmly, which helps prevent the buzzing often associated with using 6-string capos on 12-string necks.

What is the typical price for this accessory?

The Kyser 12 String Capo typically retails in the price range of approximately GBP 21.

Gear article

Kyser 12 String Capo Black

The Kyser 12 String Capo is a specialized accessory designed to accommodate the wider necks and higher tension of twelve-string acoustic guitars. Constructed from lightweight aluminium, it features a spring-loaded trigger mechanism for rapid, one-handed operation.

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Overview

The Kyser 12 String Capo is an essential tool for guitarists seeking to expand the tonal range of their 12-string instruments. Unlike standard capos, this model is engineered to provide sufficient pressure across all twelve strings simultaneously, ensuring that the octave and unison pairs are held down securely without buzzing. The black finish provides a professional, understated aesthetic suitable for any performance environment.

Design and Construction

This capo is manufactured from high-grade aluminium, chosen for its balance of structural integrity and minimal weight. The lightweight nature of the device ensures that it does not significantly alter the balance of the guitar neck when attached. It utilizes Kyser's signature 'Quick-Change' trigger design, which relies on a calibrated spring mechanism to apply even pressure across the fretboard.

Functionality and Use

The primary function of the Kyser 12 String Capo is to raise the pitch of the guitar's open strings, allowing the player to perform in different keys while using familiar chord shapes. Because it is designed for single-hand operation, it can be quickly clamped onto any fret position along the neck. When not in use, the spring-loaded design allows it to be conveniently 'parked' on the guitar's headstock.

Suitability

This model is specifically suited for 12-string acoustic guitarists who require a reliable, portable solution for changing tunings mid-performance. Its sturdy construction makes it a durable addition to a gigbag, capable of withstanding the rigours of travel and frequent use. While it is built for 12-string tension, its versatility allows it to provide various new voicings for the instrument across multiple semitones.

Comparative Context

Within the wider market of stringed instrument accessories, the Kyser 12 String Capo sits alongside specialized products like Ernie Ball M-Steel or Tim Henson Signature strings, and D'Addario Zyex or Helicore orchestral strings. Unlike standard 6-string capos, this unit features a longer bar and a stronger spring tension to ensure all courses of strings on a 12-string guitar are properly fretted.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Kyser 12 String Capo made from?: The capo is constructed from lightweight aluminium, which provides a balance of durability and ease of use without adding excessive weight to the guitar neck.
Can I use this capo with one hand?: Yes, it is specifically designed for single-hand operation, allowing you to quickly move it to any fret position during a performance.
Is this capo suitable for a standard 6-string guitar?: While it can be used on a 6-string, it is specifically engineered with the length and tension required for 12-string guitars. A dedicated 6-string model may be more comfortable for standard instruments.
How many semitones can I raise the tuning?: You can raise the tuning by as many semitones as your guitar neck allows by clamping the capo on the desired fret position.
What colour is this specific model?: This specific model comes in a classic black finish, which is a popular choice for its discrete and professional appearance.
Does the capo require manual tension adjustment?: No, it uses a fixed-spring trigger mechanism that provides the necessary pressure automatically once clamped onto the neck.
How does this capo affect the guitar's voicing?: By changing the length of the vibrating strings, it allows for a multitude of new voicings and higher-pitched tonal characteristics while maintaining standard chord shapes.
Is the Kyser 12 String Capo durable?: Yes, it is described as a sturdy device made from aluminium that is designed to stand the test of time even with frequent use.
Where can I store the capo when not playing?: The spring-loaded design allows it to be clamped onto the headstock of the guitar, or it can be easily carried in a standard gigbag.
Does it work on electric 12-string guitars?: It is primarily designed for the neck profiles of 12-string guitars. While it may fit some electric models, it is most commonly used with acoustic 12-string instruments.
Will this capo cause string buzzing on a 12-string?: It is specifically built with the tension required to press down all twelve strings firmly, which helps prevent the buzzing often associated with using 6-string capos on 12-string necks.
What is the typical price for this accessory?: The Kyser 12 String Capo typically retails in the price range of approximately GBP 21.