In this article we discuss some of the best dulcimer capos available online. A capo is a vital accessory for any dulcimer player, and there are many reasons for using capo.
Let’s take a look.
Why Use a Capo?
Similar to an acoustic guitar capo, it is used to hold all the strings down at the fret with simultaneous and equal pressure. Capos shorten the strings, raising their pitch. A capo is usually fastened across all the strings of the dulcimer, although it can be applied to a subset of strings.
A key reason is that it allows the musician to play songs in different keys without adjusting the tuning. In this way, a dulcimer player can change the pitch of the open notes or open-string chord forms, and the fretted notes will not change.
Like in acoustic guitars, dulcimer capos can be used for beginners who may have a tough time fingering certain chords as it requires less stretching. For most players, it just makes life easier. Capos can also open up a whole new world beyond your typical open chords!
With the proper tuning, the capo on the neck of the dulcimer allows the player to play in multiple keys. The dulcimer’s strings can have a very wide range of pitches. As a result, the capo leaves room for the strings to be moved up or down by a whole or half note. The most recommended tunings are DAD, DAA and DGD. However, tightening the dulcimer to EBE makes for another whole range of keys.
What to Look for in Dulcimer Capos
The capos can come in leather, vinyl, rubber, or any other material that is useful for keeping the strings down with the right pressure. The capo is held in place by two circular clamps on the side. The insides of the clamps are made of rubber, cork, or some other material that can hold the capo down without scratching or damaging the dulcimer in any way.
How to Apply Dulcimer Capos
The correct way to install a dulcimer capo is to first, have the sides slightly wider than the neck. Press the bar of the capo on a spot on the nut very close to the fret. While still holding it down, carefully add the clamps. Then try strumming your dulcimer. If you get a buzzing sound, take the clamps off and move the capo.
Let’s take a look at some popular dulcimer capos available online.
Folk Craft Music’s Dulcimer Capo
Folk Craft’s instrument makers understand dulcimer players quite well. As a result, they know that it’s not uncommon to run into a song where the dulcimer’s current tuning doesn’t quite fit the desired notes. They do their best to ensure that their capos are manufactured in the highest quality of material possible to guarantee that their capos will not cause any damage.
The Folk Craft Capo prides itself in being an “easy on, easy off” capo, meaning it is easy to clamp on and off and to slide up and down. It is made of plastic and does not contain a single trace of wood, which gives it an extra flexibility.
Over 70 percent of reviewers have given it a five-star rating. The main complaint has been about the pressure it requires to hold the strings down to satisfaction. Generally, however, it has been reported that it fits most instrumentalists’ dulcimers quite well. They are capable of lasting for at least five years.
The Folk Craft’s capo is best for dulcimer players who need something durable and flexible.
Roosebeck Capo for the Mountain Dulcimer
The Roosebeck Capo is wooden with a partially glossed finished and a handy screw made from brass. It is made of lacewood and Sheesham. This capo is ideal for those who own dulcimers with opening string dimensions of 1 1/8-1 5/8 inches.
The Roosebeck is very effective at shortening the length of the strings to raise the pitch so it is ideal for players whose songs are mostly high pitched. It works best on dulcimers that are Roosebecks or Applecreeks.
Over 60 percent of reviewers gave the Roosebeck a five-star rating. There have been some complaints that it wasn’t cinching the strings down tightly enough and that its padding is not very effective. However, many dulcimer players have reported that it fits their fret range quite nicely and gives off a good appearance. Some tried other capos that ultimately did not work for them, but reported that the Roosebeck turned out to be the best solution.
That being said, the Roosebeck capo may be particular to a player’s specific dulcimer brand and holding needs.
Selected a capo for your dulcimer? Great! Check out the best dulcimer stands, and best dulcimer cases to complete your dulcimer package.
