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10 Best 12 String Capos 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

G7th Newport Guitar Capo (C32013),Silver, 12 String

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,215
Tension Adjustment
Ease of Use
Size and Fit

Most important from
1272 reviews

Tension Adjustment
An ingenious design that compensates for changes in neck radius, providing consistent performance across the fretboard.
Ease of Use
The low-profile, tapered design doesn't inhibit the fretting hand, making it ideal for extensive use during long sets.
Size and Fit
Notches effectively cover high octave strings on the low E and A, eliminating buzzing and ensuring clear sound.

The G7th Newport Guitar Capo (C32013) is specifically tailored for 12-string acoustic guitars. Made from silver, this capo is designed to fit snugly behind the fret, ensuring a secure grip without excessive tension that could damage the guitar. One of its standout features is the longer arm, which is ideal for the wider fingerboards found on 12-string guitars. This ensures that all strings are pressed down evenly, resulting in clear and consistent sound quality.

The capo's tension can be easily adjusted, which allows for precise control to avoid buzzing or muting of the strings. Additionally, the padding on the capo helps to protect the guitar's neck from scratches or wear over time. At 2.08 ounces, it is lightweight and won't significantly add to the guitar's weight, making it convenient for both practice and performance.

However, it is important to note that some users have mentioned difficulty in quickly navigating the capo during live performances due to its design. While the majority of users appreciate its secure fit and ease of use, a few have found the adjustment mechanism to be a bit fiddly compared to other capos. The G7th Newport Guitar Capo is a solid choice for 12-string guitar players looking for a capo that offers both enhanced performance and protection for their instrument.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,215
Tension Adjustment
Ease of Use
Size and Fit

Most important from
1272 reviews

Tension Adjustment
An ingenious design that compensates for changes in neck radius, providing consistent performance across the fretboard.
Ease of Use
The low-profile, tapered design doesn't inhibit the fretting hand, making it ideal for extensive use during long sets.
Size and Fit
Notches effectively cover high octave strings on the low E and A, eliminating buzzing and ensuring clear sound.
#2

D'Addario Guitar Capo for Acoustic and Electric Guitar - NS Capo - Adjustable Tension - Guitar Accessories - Works for 6 String and 12 String Guitars - Black

Rating
9.8
Material
Ease of Use

Most important from
1536 reviews

Material
The silver aluminum D'Addario NS Capo is incredibly durable, unlike the black thermoplastic version which tends to break easily.
Ease of Use
This capo is the best I've ever had; it's super easy to use and allows quick transitions between frets without moving your body or guitar.

The D'Addario NS Capo is a solid choice for guitarists looking for a reliable capo for their 6-string or 12-string guitars. One of its standout features is the micrometer tension adjustment, which allows users to fine-tune the pressure on the strings. This means you'll achieve a buzz-free sound no matter where you place it on the fretboard, which is especially beneficial for those who play in various tunings or styles. The adjustable tension combined with its strong, aircraft-grade aluminum construction ensures durability and longevity.

Ease of use is another strong point; the capo is designed for quick adjustments with a single hand. This feature is ideal for performers who need to switch keys on the fly during a performance. The lightweight nature of the capo (only 0.3 grams) means it won't weigh down your guitar or affect your playing.

While the capo is versatile, fitting both acoustic and electric guitars with radiused fretboards, it may struggle with very thick necks or unusually shaped instruments. Additionally, some users might find that the adjustment screw, while effective, can be a bit tricky to set up initially if they're not accustomed to using a micrometer system.

Rating
9.8
Material
Ease of Use

Most important from
1536 reviews

Material
The silver aluminum D'Addario NS Capo is incredibly durable, unlike the black thermoplastic version which tends to break easily.
Ease of Use
This capo is the best I've ever had; it's super easy to use and allows quick transitions between frets without moving your body or guitar.
#3

C3B Shubb Original Series 12-string Guitar Capo - Brass

Rating
9.7
Ease of Use
Size and Fit

Most important from
328 reviews

Ease of Use
It's easy to use and well-designed, holding the strings down nicely without needing frequent adjustments.
Size and Fit
The Shubb capo fits and works perfectly on a 12-string guitar, with no buzzing of strings and strong clamp strength.

The C3B Shubb Original Series 12-string Guitar Capo in Brass is a popular choice among musicians, boasting a unique design that's been trusted for over 35 years. Made from durable brass and featuring custom-made rubber, it provides a sturdy and reliable option for holding down strings. One of its standout features is the 'set it and forget it' tension adjustment, which allows you to maintain consistent pressure without needing to reset it each time you use the capo. This makes it very convenient and time-saving.

Additionally, the capo is easy to lock and remove with a simple lever flip, enhancing its user-friendliness. The rubber padding mimics a fingertip to keep your guitar in tune, ensuring a clear and stable sound. However, the capo might feel slightly heavy for some users due to its brass construction, weighing in at 0.15 pounds.

The C3B Shubb capo is a solid option for those seeking a reliable and easy-to-use capo for their 12-string guitar, though its weight might be a consideration for those preferring a lighter accessory.

Rating
9.7
Ease of Use
Size and Fit

Most important from
328 reviews

Ease of Use
It's easy to use and well-designed, holding the strings down nicely without needing frequent adjustments.
Size and Fit
The Shubb capo fits and works perfectly on a 12-string guitar, with no buzzing of strings and strong clamp strength.

Buying Guide for the Best 12 String Capos

Choosing the right capo for your 12-string guitar can significantly enhance your playing experience. A capo is a device that clamps down across the guitar's fingerboard at a particular fret, allowing you to change the pitch of the strings and play in different keys without changing your finger positioning. When selecting a capo for a 12-string guitar, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it fits well and performs effectively. Here are the key specs to look out for and how to choose the best one for your needs.
MaterialThe material of the capo affects its durability, weight, and how it interacts with your guitar strings. Common materials include metal, plastic, and rubber. Metal capos are generally more durable and provide a firm grip, but they can be heavier. Plastic capos are lighter and less expensive but may not last as long. Rubber is often used for the part that contacts the strings to prevent damage. Choose a material that balances durability and weight according to your playing style and frequency of use.
Tension AdjustmentTension adjustment refers to how tightly the capo clamps down on the strings. This is crucial for a 12-string guitar because it has more strings and requires even pressure to avoid buzzing or muting. Some capos have a spring mechanism with fixed tension, while others allow you to adjust the tension manually. Adjustable tension capos are generally better for 12-string guitars as they let you fine-tune the pressure to suit your instrument. If you play different guitars or frequently change tunings, an adjustable tension capo is a versatile choice.
PaddingPadding is the part of the capo that comes into direct contact with the strings and the back of the neck. Good padding ensures that the capo doesn't damage your guitar and provides even pressure across all strings. Look for capos with soft, durable padding materials like silicone or rubber. The padding should be thick enough to protect the strings but not so thick that it affects the capo's grip. If you have a high-end guitar, investing in a capo with high-quality padding is essential to prevent any potential damage.
Ease of UseEase of use refers to how quickly and easily you can attach, adjust, and remove the capo. Some capos have a quick-release mechanism, while others require more effort to position correctly. For live performances or frequent key changes, a capo that can be easily operated with one hand is ideal. Consider how often you'll need to move the capo and choose one that fits your playing style. If you often switch between songs or keys, a quick-release capo can save you time and hassle.
Size and FitThe size and fit of the capo are crucial for ensuring it works well with your 12-string guitar. A capo that is too small may not cover all the strings properly, while one that is too large can be cumbersome and affect your playing. Look for capos specifically designed for 12-string guitars, as they are typically wider and provide the necessary coverage. Ensure the capo fits snugly without being too tight, as this can affect the tuning and intonation of your guitar. Trying out different sizes and shapes can help you find the perfect fit for your instrument.

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