Dunlop Pivot Capo Review

A refined string clamp that does away with those buzzing 6th-string blues.

Fast action for a screw-type capo. Holds low strings exceptionally well. Slim and light.

Not quite as fast as a trigger capo. Still need two hands for some changes.

$29

Dunlop Pivot Capo
jimdunlop.com

5
4.5
5

Capos are indispensable to a folk-rock nerd like me. More than a means of accommodating quick key changes, capos are invaluable creative and writing tools—enabling me to explore the possibilities of alternate chord voices, overdub harmonizing rhythm parts fast in the studio, or turn a dull first-position chord progression into something more lively.


Capos don’t do these things equally well. I love good trigger capos for the speed with which you can use them on stage. But they don’t always maintain a uniform grip across the strings.

Dunlop’s new Pivot Capo is a refined screw tension capo. It doesn’t eliminate every challenge associated with the type: Only the most daringly dexterous will attempt a one-hand change. But string grip and intonation are perceptibly improved—particularly on heavy 6th strings, the bane of most every capo I know. The smooth, accurate screw action makes it easy to make precise adjustments to compensate for tall or jumbo frets, which can create intonation problems for capos without variable tension. It also handles 7.25" to 12" fretboard radii equally well. Even more impressively, it yielded completely respectable (if not totally accurate) results on a Fender Electric XII at the 7th fret without attempting a retune. At 29 bucks a pop, you’ll want to take care not to lose yours. But I may have found my new go-to string squeezer.

Test Gear: Rickenbacker 330, Gibson J-45, Fender Telecaster Deluxe, Fender Electric XII, Fender Jazzmaster

Who wouldn't love to add a Supro Flanger to their rig? Now's your chance! Enter here for today's Stompboxtober giveaway!

Read MoreShow less

The Trigger Fly Capo builds on the original Trigger Capo—Dunlop’s most popular capo design—designed for better handling and tuning stability.

Read MoreShow less

Gretsch honors the late AC/DC co-founder, guitarist, and songwriter with an all-new signature guitar, Limited Edition Malcolm Young “Red Beast” Signature Jet.

Read MoreShow less

Introducing the new Boogie Cabinet Series, comprised of new guitar cabinet offerings and long-time Mesa player favorites.

Read MoreShow less