Originally Posted by: Ben LindholmThe benefits of using a capo (beginner or pro) is that you can get the sound of open chords/open strings in any key. The immediate benefits of a capo for a beginner is that you only have to know a few basic chords (you don't have to know barre chords) and still be able to play in any key.

+1 and using a capo is very good way to break out of a creative rut