The Best Classical Guitars of 2024

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Navigating the rich landscape of classical guitars can be as intricate as playing a Bach fugue. With countless brands, designs, and materials, how do you discern the diamonds from the rough? In this comprehensive guide, we’ve strummed, plucked, and analyzed the best classical guitars available today. Throughout this article, you’ll:

• Discover the Artistry: Uncover how the fusion of craftsmanship and technology is shaping the modern classical guitar market.
• Determine Value: Learn the crucial elements that differentiate a well-valued instrument from an overpriced counterpart.
• Define Your Sound: Grasp how various woods and design intricacies can influence the timbre and resonance of a guitar.

What are the Best Classical Guitars?

1. Taylor Academy 12e-N
2. Cordoba C7
3. Yamaha C40II
4. Cordoba GK Studio Flamenco
5. Takamine GC-6CE
6. Martin 16 Series 000C12-16E Nylon
7. Yamaha NTX1 Electro Classical Guitar
8. Godin Multiac Encore Nylon
9. Yamaha SLG200NW
10. Washburn C5CE Classical Guitar

1. Taylor Academy 12e-N

Technical Features:

• Nylon strings
• Academy Grand Concert body shape
• Solid Lutz Spruce top
• Layered Sapele back and sides
• West African Crelicam Ebony fretboard
• Slim neck

Review:

The Taylor Academy 12e-N is not just a feast for the eyes but also a joy to play. The guitar showcases its strengths when used for fingerstyle playing. The rich, layered tones it produces, coupled with its comfortable neck and body design, make it a winner in its class.

Verdict:

This classical guitar is a top-tier choice for enthusiasts and professionals looking for an exceptional nylon-string experience.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Fingerstyle players
• Performers looking for amplified nylon-string sound
• Those who prioritize craftsmanship and playability

2. Cordoba C7

Technical Features:

• Nylon strings
• Classical body shape
• Solid Western Red Cedar top
• Rosewood back and sides
• Fan body bracing
• Mahogany neck
• Rosewood fingerboard
• Cordoba Gold tuning machines

Review:

With the Cordoba C7, you are investing in a piece of artistry. From its stunning looks to its robust sound, it truly stands out. The guitar is responsive, making it suitable for various playing styles and techniques. With its solid cedar top and redwood back and sides, his traditional classical guitar brings a warm, nuanced tone. It also comes at a great price, making this affordable classical guitar perfect for beginners or a guitarist in need of a budget option.

Verdict:

For its price range, the Cordoba C7 is a masterpiece and is highly recommended for both beginners and seasoned players.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Classical guitarists at all skill levels
• Musicians seeking traditional construction with modern flair
• Those in search of quality on a budget

3. Yamaha C40II

Technical Features:

• Classical body shape
• Spruce top
• Meranti back and sides
• Rosewood fingerboard
• 25.56″ scale length

Review:

The Yamaha C40II stands out as a dependable workhorse. Its straightforward design, combined with Yamaha’s consistent build quality, makes it a favored choice for many. The bright sound profile is delightful, making practicing and performing a pleasure, and the built-in tuner makes this a great classical guitar for beginners.

Verdict:

This is one of the best nylon string guitars for those seeking a balance of affordability, playability, and sound quality.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Intermediate players progressing from beginner models
• Classical guitarists on a budget
• Those seeking a supportive digital companion with their instrument

4. Cordoba GK Studio Flamenco

Technical Features:

• Flamenco body shape
• Solid European Spruce top
• Rosewood back and sides
• Rosewood fingerboard
• 25.5″ scale length

Review:

The Cordoba GK Studio Flamenco is truly a joy to play. Its balanced sound, superb playability, and genuine flamenco aesthetics make it a must-have for any enthusiast. The rich basses and sharp trebles it produces make it perfect for both solo and ensemble playing, making it a great nylon-strung guitar for those looking for a diverse and versatile instrument.

Verdict:

The Cordoba GK Studio is an exceptional instrument for those wanting an authentic flamenco guitar without splurging.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Flamenco enthusiasts and players
• Guitarists seeking a versatile instrument for diverse genres
• Those who prioritize aesthetics along with sound quality

5. Takamine GC-6CE

Technical Features:

• Classical body shape
• Solid Spruce top
• Black Walnut back and sides
• Mahogany neck
• Laurel fingerboard

Review:

The Takamine GC-6CE does not disappoint. It produces a vibrant sound that’s both rich and articulate. Its electronics are of top-notch quality, ensuring that when amplified, the guitar’s character remains intact. Visually, the guitar is stunning, with its unique soundhole capturing attention whether you’re on stage or in the studio.

Verdict:

This nylon-strung guitar offers an impeccable blend of modern electronics and traditional guitar craftsmanship suitable for players who seek both aesthetics and sound.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Intermediate players transitioning to professional levels
• Classical guitarists in need of reliable onboard electronics
• Those who desire a visually distinctive classical guitar

6. Martin 16 Series 000C12-16E Nylon

Technical Features:

• Classical body shape
• Solid Spruce top
• Black Walnut back and sides
• Mahogany neck

Review:

The Martin 16 Series 000C12-16E Nylon maintains the reputation of its brand. From the moment you pick it up, it exudes Martin’s renowned quality. It offers a rich, warm sound that captures the spirit of classical music. Whether played acoustically or amplified, its sound remains faithful and pure.

Verdict:

This is a must-have for classical guitarists who refuse to compromise on quality, tradition, and modern functionality.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Classical guitar enthusiasts seeking a blend of tradition and modernity
• Intermediate players looking to invest in a legacy brand
• Performers requiring both acoustic richness and amplified clarity

7. Yamaha NTX1 Electro Classical Guitar

Technical Features:

• Solid Sitka Spruce top
• Nato or Okume back and sides
• Nato neck
• Walnut fingerboard
• Gold/Black tuning machine
• 650mm scale length
• Undersaddle Pickup

Review:

The Yamaha NTX1 Electro is an impressive crossover instrument. This exciting classical guitar captures the classic feel and sound while integrating it with modern designs and features. Its electronics are responsive and accurate, making it suitable for both studio recording and live performances.

Verdict:

The Yamaha NTX1 is an excellent instrument for modern players wanting to blend classical tones with a modern feel.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Electric and steel-string players looking to explore classical tones
• Live performers requiring reliable onboard electronics
• Guitarists valuing style and functionality

8. Godin Multiac Encore Nylon

Technical Features:

• Hollowbody body
• Encore body
• Silver Leaf Maple body
• Canadian Laurentian Basswood Wings
• Solid Cedar top
• Mahogany neck
• Rosewood fingerboard
• Controls: 1 x volume, 3-band EQ, 1 x blend

Review:

The Godin Multiac Encore Nylon has proven itself as one of the best nylon string guitars for live performers. Its sound is pristine, with clear highs and deep lows, a testament to the high-quality tonewoods and construction. The dual-source EPM electronics allow for diverse soundscapes suited for different performance settings.

Verdict:

This is the best classical guitar for live performers, ensuring quality sound, ease of play, and feedback resistance.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Live performers who need feedback-resistant guitars
• Players looking for a combination of traditional and modern design
• Guitarists desiring optimal sound quality and versatility

9. Yamaha SLG200NW

Technical Features:

• Mahogany body and neck
• Rosewood fingerboard
• Rosewood bridge
• Flat fingerboard radius
• 52mm nut width

Review:

The Yamaha SLG200NW offers a truly innovative approach to the classical guitar. While it retains the warmth and richness one would expect from a nylon-stringed instrument, it breaks away from tradition with its slim, silent design. This is perfect for practicing in silence, while also being ready to deliver powerful, authentic tones when plugged in.

Verdict:

For the modern classical guitarist, the SLG200NW is a must-have, merging portability with uncompromised sound.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Traveling musicians seeking portability without sacrificing sound
• Players wanting a unique, contemporary instrument
• Guitarists living in shared spaces desiring quiet practice sessions

10. Washburn C5CE Classical Guitar

• Technical Features:

• Classical body shape with Single Cutaway
• Catalpa back and sides
• Mahogany neck
• Engineered Wood fingerboard
• 25.5″ scale length
• Pearloid button tuners

Review:

The Washburn C5CE presents a surprising package. For its price point, it offers robust build quality and a sound that competes with more expensive models. The brightness of the spruce top is well-balanced by the depth of the mahogany neck and catalpa back and sides. The inclusion of a cutaway and electronics makes it versatile for various musical scenarios.

Verdict:

This is a fantastic entry-level classical guitar that provides excellent value for money, proving that quality doesn’t always have to break the bank.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Beginners looking for a reliable first classical guitar
• Intermediate players seeking an affordable, gig-ready option
• Musicians on a budget who don’t want to compromise on quality

In-Depth Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Classical Guitar For You

When you’re on the hunt for the best classical guitar, the choices can be overwhelming, especially with the number of classical guitar deals available on the market. Understanding the core elements and what differentiates this elegant instrument from others is crucial.

Let’s delve deep into the world of classical guitars.

What is a Classical Guitar?

A classical guitar, sometimes called the “Spanish guitar,” is a musical instrument from the guitar family. It’s primarily used in classical music, but its sweet, mellow sound has found a home in various genres, from jazz to pop.

Would you prefer an electric guitar? Check out our list of the best brands here.

Key Characteristics:

Strings: Classical guitars are strung with nylon strings, giving them a warm and mellow tone. This is one of their most distinctive features compared to steel-string guitars, which have a brighter and louder sound.

Steel strings are also less forgiving for beginners and are more likely to cause finger pain if you’re just getting used to playing the guitar. This is why many beginners opt for a nylon instrument over a steel string guitar.

Headstock: The headstock of a classical guitar typically has slotted pegheads, which means the tuning pegs are perpendicular to the headstock surface rather than parallel, as seen in most modern guitars.

Fingerboard: The fingerboard (or fretboard) is wider, allowing for more space between the strings. This design caters to intricate fingerpicking techniques inherent in classical guitar playing.

Body Size: They generally have a smaller body size than Dreadnought acoustics, making them more comfortable for many players, especially those of smaller stature. (Looking for the best acoustic guitars for kids? Check out this article.)

No Truss Rod: Unlike many modern guitars, classical guitars usually don’t have a truss rod – a metal rod in the neck used for adjustment. This is because nylon strings exert less tension than steel strings, making the rod unnecessary.

What to Look for When Buying a Classical Guitar

When purchasing a classical guitar, there are several key factors you need to keep in mind.

Materials

Top Wood: The top (or soundboard) plays a significant role in producing the guitar’s sound. Solid tops, usually made of spruce or cedar, tend to produce a richer tone than laminated tops.

Back and Sides Wood: Rosewood, mahogany, and maple are common materials for the back and sides of classical guitars. Rosewood usually provides deep lows and sparkling highs, while mahogany offers a more balanced, punchier tone.

Neck and Fingerboard: When it comes to classical guitars, the neck is typically made of mahogany or cedar, with rosewood or ebony fingerboards. The choice here affects playability and comfort.

Size, Craftsmanship, and Playability

While classical guitars have a standard shape, there are variations like the cutaway design which provides easier access to higher frets. Consider what’s comfortable for your body size and playing style. Make sure to look for clean construction. Check the bracing pattern inside the guitar – fan bracing is a traditional choice for classical guitars, giving them their distinctive sound.

The action (distance between the strings and the fingerboard) should be comfortable. Too high, and it becomes hard to press the strings down; too low, and you might hear unwanted buzzing.

Electronics

Some classical guitars come with built-in pickups and preamps, allowing them to be amplified. This feature is useful for performing in larger venues or recording songs.

Branding and Budget

While brand reputation can be a sign of quality, it’s essential to play the guitar or listen to it being played before purchasing. Even though it can be much safer to go with well-known brands, sometimes, lesser-known brands offer excellent value for money. Always do your research and read reviews to make sure you’re getting the very best classical guitar deals and not being scammed.

Remember, if you’re just starting out, it’s better to go with a simpler, less expensive guitar. Whether you’re looking for a steel-string model or a nylon-string acoustic, you can always upgrade later when your skills improve.

Looking for classical guitars under $500? Try these.

Potential Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Misrepresentation:

When shopping for classical guitar deals, not everything is as it seems. A guitar may look good, but it doesn’t mean that’s how it will sound. Always try before you buy. Pictures can be deceptive, and descriptions might omit crucial details.

If purchasing online, buy from reputable sellers or platforms with good return policies. All the classical guitars we’ve included on our list are from well-known and trusted sellers.

Overpaying:

To avoid forking out more cash than you have to, research the guitar’s make, model, and typical selling price in similar conditions. Compare prices from various sources.

Hidden Issues:

If you’re buying second-hand, there may be hidden issues you won’t be able to spot at first glance. Spend ample time inspecting and playing the guitar. Consider taking along a knowledgeable friend or getting the guitar checked at a local music shop.

Fake Brands or Knockoffs

Familiarize yourself with the brand’s unique markers, logos, and typical build qualities. When a deal seems too good to be true, it often is.

Incomplete Sales

If you’re dealing with a private seller, meet in public places and ensure you have all the necessary components (case, any included accessories) before completing the transaction.

Buying a Guitar That Doesn’t Suit Your Needs:

Understand what you want in a guitar. Whether it’s a particular sound, feel, or size, ensure the guitar meets those specific needs before purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions: Best Classical Guitars

Which brand is best for classical guitar?

The “best” brand for classical guitars can be subjective and often depends on an individual’s needs and preferences. Historically, brands like Yamaha, Cordoba, and Takamine have received high praise from both beginners and professionals alike. They are known for consistent quality and producing some of the best classical guitars in various price ranges.

Are expensive classical guitars worth it?

Expensive classical guitars often come with a combination of superior craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and years (if not centuries) of brand legacy. They tend to offer richer tones, greater sustain, and more detailed resonance. While they can significantly elevate the playing experience for professionals, beginners might not always discern the subtle differences. Therefore, while they are worth it for seasoned players or those looking for the best tonal quality, beginners might start with a mid-range guitar and upgrade as their skills advance.

Which classical guitar is the easiest to play?

The ease of play in classical guitars is largely determined by its neck width, action (the distance between the strings and the fretboard), and overall build quality. Brands like Yamaha and Cordoba often design guitars that cater to both beginners and intermediates, focusing on playability. Their models, especially the ones labeled for beginners or with “slim neck” designs, are typically easier to play.

It’s also advisable to try guitars in person or consult with a music instructor to find the best fit for your hands and playing style.

Are Cordoba guitars any good?

Absolutely! Cordoba is renowned for producing high-quality classical and flamenco guitars. They blend traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to produce instruments that resonate with both warmth and clarity. Their range spans from beginner models to professional-grade instruments, and they consistently rank among the best classical guitars in various price categories.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right classical guitar, whether new or used, is a journey into the world of craftsmanship, sound, and personal musical expression. From understanding the intricacies of what sets classical guitars apart to navigating the potential pitfalls of purchasing a used instrument, it’s clear that every guitar has its own story to tell.

With the guidance provided in this comprehensive review, you’re not just buying a piece of wood and strings; you’re investing in a legacy of music and the soulful resonance that only a well-chosen guitar can provide. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or a budding guitarist, the best classical guitars await to amplify your melodies, enriching your musical journey. Dive into this realm with knowledge, passion, and the right instrument in hand, and let the symphony of strings elevate your every performance.

: Frequently Asked Questions