How a capo changes pitch
A capo shortens all strings at the same fret. Each fret raises the sounding pitch by one semitone while letting you use familiar open-position shapes. For example, an open G shape with a capo at fret 2 sounds as A.
Capo transposition chart
| Shape | Capo 1 | Capo 2 | Capo 3 | Capo 4 | Capo 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C | Db | D | Eb | E | F |
| D | Eb | E | F | Gb | G |
| E | F | Gb | G | Ab | A |
| F | Gb | G | Ab | A | Bb |
| G | Ab | A | Bb | B | C |
| A | Bb | B | C | Db | D |
| B | C | Db | D | Eb | E |
Quick formula
Start with the chord-shape name and move up one chromatic step for each capo fret. The sequence is A, Bb, B, C, Db, D, Eb, E, F, Gb, G, Ab, then A again. Sharp names may be used instead of equivalent flats depending on the key.
Finding a comfortable singing key
If a song feels too low, move the capo upward while keeping the same shapes. Each fret raises the song by one semitone. If it becomes too high, choose lower shapes, remove the capo, or transpose the progression downward.
Capos and alternate tunings
A capo preserves the tuning’s interval pattern but raises every sounding pitch. Open D with a capo at fret 2 sounds as Open E without raising the open-string tension. A guitar tuned half step down with a capo at fret 1 returns to the sounding pitches of standard tuning.
Tuning after installing a capo
- Tune the guitar before placing the capo.
- Position it close behind the fret, not directly on top.
- Use only enough pressure to produce clean notes.
- Check tuning again; excessive capo pressure can pull strings sharp.
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