Variable string capo system for pedal steel prototype

[John Gately]

I created a 3D printed single string CAPO system for pedal steel. It consists of steel fret bars 1/4” width that mount on a rail which is mounted on a base. Since the string height can vary vertically as well as horizontally there are three different height fret holders as well as spacers that mount under the rail of 1/16” and 1/32” in height. I thought about this as a potentially commercial project but the variability between instrument specifications would seem to make this impractical. I have 3”, 3.5”, and 4” width versions. See image for example of 4” inch width suitable for 12 string.

This system allows you to capo a single string or multiple strings higher up the neck while using the bar lower down the neck. Thus pitch combinations impossible to play with a single bar become possible. For instance you could capo string 4 at the 12 fret (note E) while playing an E chord with the AB pedals at fret 7. Using a second capo, you could simultaneously capo string 1 at fret 14 (note G#). This system facilitates creation of signature motifs and chordal possibilities that span intervals otherwise not possible.

There are some issues with the design. Notably, the sustain of the capo’d note is not optimal. This may be due to the PLA material encasing the steel fret. Also inserting and removing the capo requires some fiddling.

In any event, if anyone is interested in trying this system, I am willing to provide the prototype for free. It is somewhat of a novelty item and not something I’d expect to be usefully for every session or gig. But it does allow a creative person to do some interesting things musically that otherwise would impossible. PM me if you are interested in trying this out. But please be a gigging or recording steel player willing to provide feedback