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Please note this is an archived topic, so it is locked and unable to be replied to. You may, however, start a new topic and refer to this topic with a link: http://www.banjohangout.org/archive/295604
jlawjr - Posted - 12/06/2014: 10:27:15
I am considering buying a Banjo Highway 5th string capo. Has anyone tried to use this capo on a nylon-strung banjo? If so, did it work well?
jstollak - Posted - 12/08/2014: 19:40:24
I just received one today. I tried it briefly on a nylgut-strung banjo and it was OK. I'll need a few days to decide whether it works "well." I'll get back to you.
js
jlawjr - Posted - 12/09/2014: 11:48:35
I got an email from the capo manufacturer. They make several capos that are specifically for nylgut-strung banjos, but don't advertise them on their website because there are different gauges for nylgut strings and sometimes higher action at the 7th fret on a banjo set up for nylgut strings.. I really don't want to buy more than one fifth-string capo, given the high price, and ideally the capo would work for both steel and nylgut strings.
I'll be very interested to hear how it works out for you.
---Jim
jstollak - Posted - 12/15/2014: 10:21:23
Actually, it works quite well. The initial uncertainty had nothing to do with the capo - I had just changed the strings and they were still stretching so the sound itself wasn't stable.
As a 5th string capo (again, nylgut strings) it was fine. Did it affect the tone? I would say "Yes," but it was OK.
When on, it LOOKed a little shaky like it wasn't going to be stable, but it was. I didn't know there were "special" models.
The biggest issue for me is it adds a sizable "blind spot" on a part of the fingerboard where I may be glancing for visual cues. Since I'm usually not watching my fingers, I'll get used to it.
jlawjr - Posted - 12/16/2014: 05:24:02
It is good to hear that the standard capo is working out for you. How high is the action at the seventh fret on your nylon strung banjo? Are you using light, regular, or heavy strings? Or Nylgut minstrels?
For the specialty capos, it costs another $13 for postage from Australia.
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