The classic question: which classical guitar is best for beginner guitarists? In this dainty little article, we’ll be having a good look at this question. So, if you’re a beginner and searching for your first model, you’re in the right place.
Classical vs acoustic guitars
Just to give you a quick run down – classical guitars are very much like acoustics, but they have nylon strings instead of metal or metal alloy strings, as well as a particular body shape. This makes them much easier to play and gives them a distinctive, bright tone.
They’re used for a range of genres, from classical (duh) to flamenco and even jazz! Often, they’re called Spanish guitars – which are exactly the same.
What should you look out for?
Looking to lay your fingers on the best classical guitar you can find? There are a few things you should look out for. Here’s a handy list which you can use as a checklist when you’re searching for your first model:
Strings
Is what you’re looking at definitely a nylon-string guitar? This is the most distinctive mark of a classical, so make sure you know what one looks like. Steel-string acoustics sound very different, so if it’s the classical sound you’re after, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got nylon strings at your disposal.
Wood
The wood of any non-electric guitar massively influences its tone, so it’s important you have the right one. Mahogany, for instance, has rich, warm voicing, whilst a spruce top will often bring out more punch and projection. Here’s a full guide to acoustic tonewoods which you might find useful.
Size
Are you a smaller person or buying for your child? Classical guitars come in many sizes, from full to 3/4 classical guitars and even half-size. Smaller models are much easier to play if you have smaller hands, so they’re well worth looking at.
Can it be amplified?
Classicals sound great, but they can only reach so far when played acoustically.
If you’re looking for a bit more volume and potentially to play live, you’ll want an electro-acoustic model.
Price
They say money makes the world go ’round. But it can also make your head spin – especially when you see a less-than-attractive price tag.
Unless you have cash to burn, there’s no point in buying a super-expensive guitar.
There are plenty of affordable classicals out there.
Get one of them first, and make sure you love playing before you invest in a pricier one.
The best model for you
It’s come time to determine which is the best classical guitar for you! So, without further ado, here are some of the contenders:
Yamaha C40 Classical Guitar
Having been around for a long time, and having proven their mettle over the years, Yamaha classical guitars are often the go-to for both beginners and experienced players alike.
The C40 is a high-quality instrument at an affordable price point.
Featuring a meranti body and spruce top, this guitar produces a crisp, mahogany-like warmth with a stronger midrange punch.
Shop now | Yamaha C40 Classical Guitar
Fender ESC-110 Classical Guitar, Wide Neck
Everyone knows the name Fender. One of the largest and more popular guitar makers in the world, you can be sure their guitars are up to scratch.
And their classicals are no different, with the ESC-110 boasting a host of fine features.
You’ll find it really easy to play from the off, with its wide neck offering a comfortable grip and feel.
Shop now | Fender ESC-110 Classical Guitar
3/4 Classical Guitar, Sunburst, by Gear4music
Possibly the most wallet-friendly classical guitar out there.
This Gear4music guitar is 3/4 size, so it’s perfect for smaller players or those who just want an easier-to-play instrument.
It’s incredibly popular and has a really satisfying sound courtesy of linden back, sides, and top. This wood is also really light, so literally anyone will be able to handle this beauty.
Shop now | 3/4 Classical Guitar, Sunburst, by Gear4music
Junior 1/2 Classical Guitar, Blue, by Gear4music
Thought they couldn’t get smaller? Think again!
If you’re really small, then a half-size classical might be the way to go!
The Junior 1/2 Classical is definitely aimed at smaller kids who are looking to get into guitar early.
Like the 3/4 size guitar, it’s made from lightweight linden, and comes at a super affordable price.
Shop now | Junior 1/2 Classical Guitar, Blue, by Gear4music
Thinline Electro Classical Guitar by Gear4music
If you like a sleeker-looking guitar which can be amplified, the Thinline Electro Classical will do the job perfectly.
It boasts a much shallower body than your regular classical.
This thinline body is a little easier to handle, and sapele back and sides add a lovely striped aesthetic.
There’s also a cutaway body for easy upper fret access, so you can reach every note.
The preamp and electronics let you connect to an amp.
A built-in tuner and tonal controls then serve as handy extras to further shape and control your sound.
Final thoughts
So, which one is the best? All of them! The truth is that the best option for you really comes down to your preferences and what you’re looking for.
One of the best things you can do is go into a shop and try different models out yourself. Then you can decide which tonewoods, sizes, and designs you like the most, and go from there.
These Spanish classical guitars are spectacular for beginners, but they’re just a choice selection. You could also look at the Gear4music Deluxe Single Cutaway, Deluxe 3/4, or Fender ESC-105, or follow the link below for our whole array of classicals.
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