What does the Kyser Short Cut Capo actually do?

The Short Cut Capo clamps down on only three strings of the guitar instead of all six. This allows for partial capoing, which mimics the sound of alternate tunings like DADGAD while keeping the guitar in standard tuning.

Which strings does this capo typically cover?

It is most commonly used to cover the A, D, and G strings (the 5th, 4th, and 3rd strings). When placed at the second fret, it creates a suspended chord effect.

Can I use this capo on a classical guitar?

While it is designed for steel-string acoustic guitars, it can be used on others; however, the flat fretboards of classical guitars may require a specific capo like the K&M 30910 for proper tension across all strings.

How does this differ from a regular Kyser Quick-Change capo?

A regular Quick-Change capo has a long bar to fret all strings, whereas the Short Cut has a significantly shorter bar designed to leave the outer strings open.

Is the Kyser Short Cut Capo durable?

Yes, it is built with a sturdy aluminium frame and a high-tension spring. It is designed to be a professional-grade tool for long-term use.

What is the typical price for this model?

In the UK market, the Kyser Short Cut Capo typically retails for approximately £21.00. Prices may vary slightly based on the specific retailer.

Does it require me to retune my guitar?

No, the primary benefit of the Short Cut Capo is that it provides the sound of an alternate tuning while the guitar remains physically tuned to Standard (EADGBE).

Can I use the Short Cut Capo alongside a standard capo?

Yes, many guitarists use a standard capo to change the key and then place the Short Cut Capo two frets above it to achieve partial-capo voicings in different keys.

What kind of music is this capo best for?

It is highly popular in folk, Celtic, acoustic rock, and worship music. It is ideal for any genre that benefits from ringing, open drone notes.

Is this capo available in different colours?

This specific reference pertains to the Black version of the Short Cut Capo. Kyser often produces their hardware in a variety of finishes.

How easy is it to move during a live performance?

Like all Kyser Quick-Change models, it features a trigger design that allows it to be moved or removed with one hand very quickly.

Does the Short Cut Capo work on electric guitars?

Yes, it can be used on electric guitars, though players should be mindful of the string gauge and fretboard radius to ensure even pressure.

Gear article

Kyser Short Cut Capo

The Kyser Short Cut Capo is a specialised guitar accessory designed to facilitate open tuning effects without retuning the instrument. Unlike standard capos, it applies pressure to only a specific selection of strings, allowing for unique chord voicings and drone effects.

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Overview

The Kyser Short Cut Capo is a unique utility in the realm of guitar accessories, specifically engineered to expand the creative potential of the instrument. While traditional capos clamp across all six strings to raise the pitch of the entire guitar, the Short Cut is designed to hold down only three strings. This configuration allows players to experiment with alternate 'modal' sounds and creative fingerings that are impossible with standard equipment.

Design and Functionality

Constructed with the robust build quality characteristic of the Kyser brand, this capo utilises a spring-loaded trigger mechanism for quick installation and removal. The short bar is specifically sized to fret three strings (typically the A, D, and G strings at the second fret), which creates a DADGAD-like effect while leaving the low E, B, and high E strings open. This allows the open strings to act as drones while the player uses standard chord shapes further down the neck.

Sound and Character

The primary sonic characteristic of the Short Cut Capo is its ability to create lush, open-sounding textures. By leaving certain strings unfretted, it provides a resonant, ringing quality often associated with Celtic or folk music. It encourages the use of 'drone strings,' where a single note rings consistently throughout a chord progression, adding depth and a complex harmonic foundation to solo performances.

Target User

This tool is best suited for singer-songwriters, folk musicians, and fingerstyle guitarists looking to explore new sonic dimensions without the complexity of learning entirely new tuning systems. It is also an excellent tool for beginners to find 'cheat' chords that sound sophisticated but require simpler left-hand positioning. Its sturdy construction ensures it can withstand frequent use in both practice and live performance environments.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to standard devices like the K&M 30910 Classical Guitar Capo or the Flight Aluminium Ukulele Capo, the Short Cut is a specialized tool rather than a general-purpose pitch shifter. While standard capos are essential for changing key, the Short Cut is an additive creative tool. In the wider market of guitar maintenance and accessories, it sits alongside items such as Fender Strap Blocks or various instrument straps from Neotech and Protec as a staple for the performing guitarist.

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Frequently asked questions

What does the Kyser Short Cut Capo actually do?: The Short Cut Capo clamps down on only three strings of the guitar instead of all six. This allows for partial capoing, which mimics the sound of alternate tunings like DADGAD while keeping the guitar in standard tuning.
Which strings does this capo typically cover?: It is most commonly used to cover the A, D, and G strings (the 5th, 4th, and 3rd strings). When placed at the second fret, it creates a suspended chord effect.
Can I use this capo on a classical guitar?: While it is designed for steel-string acoustic guitars, it can be used on others; however, the flat fretboards of classical guitars may require a specific capo like the K&M 30910 for proper tension across all strings.
How does this differ from a regular Kyser Quick-Change capo?: A regular Quick-Change capo has a long bar to fret all strings, whereas the Short Cut has a significantly shorter bar designed to leave the outer strings open.
Is the Kyser Short Cut Capo durable?: Yes, it is built with a sturdy aluminium frame and a high-tension spring. It is designed to be a professional-grade tool for long-term use.
What is the typical price for this model?: In the UK market, the Kyser Short Cut Capo typically retails for approximately £21.00. Prices may vary slightly based on the specific retailer.
Does it require me to retune my guitar?: No, the primary benefit of the Short Cut Capo is that it provides the sound of an alternate tuning while the guitar remains physically tuned to Standard (EADGBE).
Can I use the Short Cut Capo alongside a standard capo?: Yes, many guitarists use a standard capo to change the key and then place the Short Cut Capo two frets above it to achieve partial-capo voicings in different keys.
What kind of music is this capo best for?: It is highly popular in folk, Celtic, acoustic rock, and worship music. It is ideal for any genre that benefits from ringing, open drone notes.
Is this capo available in different colours?: This specific reference pertains to the Black version of the Short Cut Capo. Kyser often produces their hardware in a variety of finishes.
How easy is it to move during a live performance?: Like all Kyser Quick-Change models, it features a trigger design that allows it to be moved or removed with one hand very quickly.
Does the Short Cut Capo work on electric guitars?: Yes, it can be used on electric guitars, though players should be mindful of the string gauge and fretboard radius to ensure even pressure.