Capos and tuning

[GregK]

I have a GS mini.  When I place a capo on the second fret (or fourth) I need to re-tune, at least the low E and A strings.  With my old Gibsons that is not the case.  Is there a problem with the GS mini guitar that can be corrected? I love the guitar and thinking of a 400 series next but a bit skeptical of Taylor because I like to use a capo often and like to change capo position or not use with different songs I play.

[ericjungemann]

Very doubtful it is the mini.  I recently learned something from Tommy Emmanuel.  See if this helps you . . .

http://www.unofficialtaylorguitarforum.com/index.php?topic=8738.0

Eric

[TaylorGirl]

What kind of capo are you using?

I have always used Shubb capos, which allow you to adjust the pressure, depending on the fret (neck thickness). I know there are other similar, good capos that do the same. They do their job without pulling the strings sharp. Rarely do I have to retune a string. I have never had an intonation problem with any Taylor's that I've owned, while using capos or not.  I guess I'm at a loss otherwise. 

Maybe the guitar needs a good setup.

[zeebow]

i’ve been taught that you should retune after a capo, some are more notorious than others for making some strings sharp

[Frettingflyer]

It does happen. I like the G7th performance 2, with which I rarely need to retune any string. Probably the way your capo interacts with the neck, fwiw

[MrYelnats]

I agree with the responses above. But would also add that short scale guitars like the mini gs are more susceptible to too much finger or capo pressure making notes sharp. 

[SoCalSurf]

I won't capo my GS Mini below the third fret for the same reason. But it does not happen on any of my full-sized Taylors.

[GregK]

OK.  I watched the Tommy Emanuel video.  Using a Shubb capo, I press the capo into place midway between frets; that is press the capo firmly against the strings prior to snapping the capo shut.  It works! The low strings do not require re-tuning.  AND who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks.  Thanks all for responding to my original post.
Oh, and by the way, the Tommy Emanuel technique of putting pressure on the strings over the sound hole after placing the capo doesn't seem to do a cotton-picking thing.   BUT the aforementioned "trick" seems to work for me.