Best
Guitar players of all levels
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Overall: Designed with a versatile top with a responsive nature
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Best Feature: With finger-friendly strings and a smooth ergonomic feel
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TedScore™: 10/10
Best
Guitar players of all levels
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Overall: Grand concert body produces excellent tones with fingerstyles
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Best Feature: Glorious clarity and dynamics flow from a Lutz spruce top
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TedScore™: 10/10
Best
Nylon String Guitar Brands
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Overall: Traditional Spanish classical guitar with the added benefit of a sleek, slim neck
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Best Feature: With a rich, classical tone of a beautiful solid Canadian cedar top
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TedScore™: 9/10
A nylon guitar, sometimes called a classical guitar, **boasts nylon strings** that give off a soft, rich sound.
Classical guitars are considered to be the ancestors of modern guitars. These well-known quality instruments are recognizable by their round body and four pairs of strings that produce a unique sound.
They’re versatile in playing different genres of music. You can hear them from classical music to modern-day jazz and rock music. They’re also widely used to play Spanish flamenco, South American folk music, and more.
With their rich history and timeless appeal, classical guitars can be enjoyed by musicians of all skill levels.
Finding the best guitar brand doesn’t have to be a difficult process. You can find a great instrument on any budget. It’s also essential to do your research and look at the features and specs of what each brand has to offer.
With time, effort, and a bit of help from this article, you’ll be sure to find the perfect brand that perfectly fits your need, so make sure to keep reading!
Choosing Your Best Brand Classical Guitar Instruments
There are several factors to consider when choosing your best classical guitars.
First, make sure you buy a classical guitar specifically, and not the “hybrid” or the steel string acoustic guitar. The guitar size is also essential. If you haven’t held one before it might be difficult to decide, so it is best to visit a guitar store with a wide selection.
Another thing to consider is the particular type of music you plan to play and your budget when selecting the right one for you. The wood choice and action of the instrument are key factors, as well as neck shape, machine heads and intonation.
Ultimately, the most obvious difference between one guitar and another is volume – best quality classical guitars are typically softer than others.
I remember the first time I played a classical guitar in a live performance and was surprised by its softer volume compared to other guitars. It required a different approach, but it added a unique and beautiful quality to the music.
Classical and Flamenco Guitar: Best Brands
If you are interested in a new guitar or learning the art of guitar playing, there are two main types of guitars to choose from — classical and good flamenco guitars.
Classical guitars have nylon strings and are characterized by their wide necks and larger bodies. Nylon guitar strings are usually made of rosewood and produce a rich, mellow sound. Flamenco guitars, on the other hand, have thinner tops and less internal bracing. They also have narrower necks than traditional classical guitars and produce a brighter, more percussive sound.
Whether you prefer the rounded tones of a classical guitar or the bright, percussive sounds of a flamenco guitar, you’re in luck! There are several exceptional options available of a good classical guitar brands, ranging from affordable factory models to higher-end quality instruments.
The Yamaha C40 and Taylor Academy 12-N are both great classical guitars known for their exceptional build quality, playability, and rich, resonant tones.
The Yamaha C40 is lauded for its affordability and reliable performance, making it an excellent choice for beginners and intermediate players. Its combination of affordability and reliable performance sets it apart from other competitors in the market.
On the other hand, the Taylor Academy 12-N stands out for its superb craftsmanship, attention to detail, and exceptional projection, making it a top choice for advanced players and professionals. Despite its higher price compared to some other classical guitars, its superior craftsmanship and exceptional projection make it a worthwhile investment for serious musicians.
In my experience, both guitars offer a comfortable playing experience and deliver the warm, traditional sound that is characteristic of classical guitars.
Taylor Academy 12-N
DESIGNED FOR: Guitar players of all levels
FEATURES: Grand concert body produces excellent tones with fingerstyles
OTHER INFO: Glorious clarity and dynamics flow from a Lutz spruce top
Taylor Academy 12-N
- Exude a beautifully rich sound courtesy of layered sapele back and sides
- Includes a durable gig bag for extra peace of mind on the road
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Cordoba C9 Luthier Series Parlour
DESIGNED FOR: Players who want comfort and great sound at great value at the same time
FEATURES: Dark, rich overtones flow from a solid cedar top
OTHER INFO: Has full-bodied resonance thanks to a mahogany body
Cordoba C9 Luthier Series Parlour
- A smaller size offers the smooth, comfortable playability
- Much more expensive guitars compared to other classical guitar brands
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha C40
DESIGNED FOR: Guitar players of all levels
FEATURES: Designed with a versatile top with a responsive nature
OTHER INFO: Superbly balanced tone with an instantly recognisable mellow warmth
Yamaha C40
- With finger-friendly strings and a smooth ergonomic feel
- Sophisticated Yamaha classical style and a classy, traditional aesthetic
- Budget-friendly without compromising great quality
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Nylon Strings and Different Build
Nylon strings are an excellent choice for guitarists who want to enjoy the full sound of steel strings but with an easier playing experience. Traditional nylon string guitars are typically softer than steel string guitars, making them gentler on your fingers.
The “Other” construction method is a great way to get the best nylon string guitars sound you’re looking for, with the neck inserted afterwards using a mortise and tenon joint. One of the important things to consider when switching to nylon string guitars is that they stretch a lot, so you’ll need tuners with large-diameter plastic rollers, and you’ll need to learn the technique of tying the string on.
So, if you’re considering nylon string guitars, it pays to know the differences between a steel string guitar and nylon string instruments and designs to find the best fit for your playing style.
Cordoba C7-CE Classical Acoustic Guitar
DESIGNED FOR: Upper-level beginner to intermediate players
FEATURES: Beautifully rich tonal qualities flow from a solid Canadian red cedar top
OTHER INFO: A strong mahogany neck topped with a rosewood fretboard allows smooth playing
Cordoba C7-CE Classical Acoustic Guitar
- Crystal-clear articulation is produced by Indian rosewood back and sides
- A traditional beauty, supported by Spanish style bracing
- Crafted exquisitely into a traditional classical-style neck for genuine authenticity
- Some users claim there are better fretboard materials for the same price range
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha CG192S
DESIGNED FOR:
FEATURES: High-end Yamaha feel with a solid-topped tone for years of blossoming sonic goodness
OTHER INFO: Slimmed down neck profile creates a sleek platform for effortless expression
Yamaha CG192S
- The ultimate blend of modern and traditional design - your next step to tonal greatness
- Light and well-made
- Pricier than other Yamaha classical guitar models
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Martin 000C12-16E
DESIGNED FOR: Plug in and play with enhanced Fishman electronics
FEATURES: Warm, rounded response from a solid spruce top and mahogany body
OTHER INFO: Unhindered finger positioning on a low-profile neck shape
Martin 000C12-16E
- The epitome of mellow classical tone
- Make you feel completely at home thanks to its wonderful auditorium shape
- Embraces the legacy of a traditional nylon string guitar and blends it with the modern appointments
- Higher price range compared to other classical guitar brands
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Classical Guitar Benefits
Classical guitars offer a beautiful and unique sound that other types of guitars can’t replicate. This is due to how they’re built, the type of wood used, their bracing, and the kind of strings they use. Its classic sound makes it great for jazz and modern music.
Playing these can also be a great way to enhance your guitar-playing skills.
The strings of classical guitars are made from nylon, which gives the guitar a softer feel, making them easier to play.
Classical guitars also have wider fingerboards that tend to be flatter than acoustic guitars, making them perfect for exploring new fingerpicking styles. With its broader spacing for strings, classical guitars make it easier to pick out intricate melodies and techniques.
You can experiment with different chords and progressions to create unique guitar sounds that bring a whole new dimension to your playing.
Premier Acoustic Guitar Brands
Guitar enthusiasts of all levels will find something to love in premier classical guitar brands. These brands offer exquisite, traditional craftsmanship and quality materials that make them stand out from the rest.
A nylon string acoustic guitar is called the “Spanish guitar”.
The construction of these guitars is what makes them special. The best high-end classical guitars are typically wooden-bodied. European spruce is a popular choice of wood used, as it suits any playing style – with various species such as Sitka (the most common), Engelmann and Adirondack being used.
Regarding the best Spanish guitar brands, names like Ramirez, Alhambra, and Cordoba are often recognized for their craftsmanship and quality, making them popular among musicians and enthusiasts.
With their unmatched construction and materials, these guitars will make any player feel like a true musician!
Alhambra 10 Premier Classical Guitar
DESIGNED FOR: Highly advanced student and semi-professional classical guitarists
FEATURES: With perfectly balanced bass, medium and treble sounds and superb sound projection
OTHER INFO: Has an ergo neck which offers more comfort to guitarists
Alhambra 10 Premier Classical Guitar
- Designed with extended fretboard to incorporate fret number 20
- Combines great comfort and playability with a sublime sound
- Pricier than other guitar manufacturers and classical guitar brands on the market
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Ramirez Estudio 3 Classical Guitar
DESIGNED FOR: Advanced students and professionals
FEATURES: Improved internal design for more volume and projection
OTHER INFO: Built with a solid cedar top, solid Indian rosewood back and sides and ebony maple fretboard
Ramirez Estudio 3 Classical Guitar
- Provides consistent quality and excellent playability
- Comfortable instrument to play, well set up
- With colourful tone and perfect projection
- More expensive model than other premium guitar brands on the market
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Admira A15
DESIGNED FOR: Beginner to professional classical guitarists
OTHER INFO: Natural finish
FEATURES: lightweight build and elegant contours
Admira A15
- Professional level of craftsmanship at an affordable price
- Rich and resonant tone from tonewoods
- Smooth playability from neck and fretboard
- Crafted for perfect playability
- None
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best Nylon String Guitar Brands
Cordoba Iberia C5-CE Classical Electro Acoustic Guitar
DESIGNED FOR: Fingerstyle players
FEATURES: Traditional Spanish classical guitar with the added benefit of a sleek, slim neck
OTHER INFO: With a rich, classical tone of a beautiful solid Canadian cedar top
Cordoba Iberia C5-CE Classical Electro Acoustic Guitar
- Heavenly resonance flows from mahogany back and sides
- Amplify sound without losing a touch of clarity thanks to Fishman electronics
- Offers a never-ending world of sonic potential
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha NTX5
DESIGNED FOR: Electric or steel-string guitarists wanting to explore the world of nylon tone
FEATURES: Solid build quality for a sound that just keeps giving, and a tone that blossoms with age
OTHER INFO: Modern, ergonomic neck profile and Venetian cutaway offers a smooth, unforgettable feel
Yamaha NTX5
- Equipped with game-changing Atmosfeel electronics for a live sound like never before
- Elegant, distinctive, and filled with renowned Yamaha quality
- Modern with a player-friendly feel
- One of the best classical guitars on the market
- More expensive guitars than other counterparts
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Alhambra 2C-US
DESIGNED FOR: Student classical guitarists
FEATURES: Made with Sapelli for the back and sides, Indian rosewood for the fingerboard and nickel-plated machine heads
OTHER INFO: Comes with power, good sound quality and a wide range of tones
Alhambra 2C-US
- A beautiful guitar, stylized and carefully finished
- A very comfortable guitar of great quality
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best Buying Advice in Classical Guitar World
The best classic guitar brands are known for their exceptional craftsmanship, rich tones, and lasting durability.
No matter what type of player you are, there’s a best classical guitar out there that’s perfect for you! Be sure to do your research before selecting your instrument to get the best playing experience possible.
Here are some of the things you need to do before guitar shopping!
Know Your Needs: Before buying, know what kind of playing you want. Consider what sound you want and which type of strings will be most suitable for your style.
Research Different Brands: Research different brands and models to find one that best fits your needs and budget. Don’t be afraid to ask experts for advice!
Test Out Different Guitars: Test out different guitars before making a purchase. You should know how it feels in your hands, how it sounds, etc.
Consider the Construction: Consider the guitar’s construction. You should look for solid wood and quality craftsmanship. This will help ensure you get a good quality instrument that will last for years to come.
Set a Budget: Set a budget for yourself before you go shopping so that you don’t overspend and regret it later.
Look for Pre-Owned Guitars: Pre-owned guitars are often cheaper than new ones, and they can be just as good, if not better, quality than new ones!
Buy from a Reputable Dealer: Buy from a reputable dealer or luthier who can offer advice, guidance, and after-sales service if needed.
By following these tips, you should be able to find the perfect guitar for all your needs!
Bonus: 5 Classical Guitar Accessories
Gig Bag
A gig bag is a perfect way to keep your instrument safe while you’re on the go. It provides cushioning and protection against minor bumps and bashes while still being lightweight and easy to carry. Whether you’re travelling by air or car, a good quality padded gig bag will keep your instrument in great condition.
Gator GB-4G-CLASSIC
4G Series Classical Guitar Gig Bag
DESIGNED FOR: Most popular styles of classical guitars
FEATURES: Prevent wear on the road thanks to its padded interior
OTHER INFO: Added support resulting from the headstock and bridge reinforcement
Gator GB-4G-CLASSIC
4G Series Classical Guitar Gig Bag
- Comes with an exterior storage pocket
- Relieve back pain by providing optimal comfort and support
- Comfort when carrying due to backpack-style straps
- Large exterior pocket to store your accessories
- No claimed waterproof abilities
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Tuner
A guitar tuner is an essential tool for any guitarist. It allows you to accurately and quickly tune your guitar to the desired pitch.
Tuners are especially important for guitarists who tune in a noisy environment, need the ability to make precise adjustments for intonation, or are beginners learning to train their ears.
Chromatic Clip-On Tuner by Gear4music
DESIGNED FOR: Performances, rehearsals, and studio sessions
FEATURES: Versatile clip-on tuner ideal for a wide range of instruments
OTHER INFO: Comes with an intuitive, light-up display
Chromatic Clip-On Tuner by Gear4music
- Superbly accurate, with a default 440Hz pitch and broad frequency range
- Easy to read with five modes to choose from
- Perform with pitch-perfect accuracy due to precise tuning quality
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Footstool
With a footstool, you can play your guitar with more precision and comfort without contorting your body in awkward positions. So if you’re serious about playing the guitar, investing in a good footstool can make a world of difference!
Hercules FS100B Guitarist Footstool
DESIGNED FOR: All guitarists
FEATURES: Adjustable height - all players can use
OTHER INFO: The large footrest can accommodate most foot sizes
Hercules FS100B Guitarist Footstool
- Non-slip rubber ensures stability
- Sturdy steel frame
- The stand folds down so it can be compactly stored or transported
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Guitar stand
A guitar stand provides a place to put your guitar down when it’s not in use. It keeps your guitar securely upright and prevents it from sliding around or tipping over.
Compact Foldable Guitar Stand by Gear4music
DESIGNED FOR: All guitar players
FEATURES: Compact, foldable design slots straight into your gig bag
OTHER INFO: Durable plastic design with a locking folding mechanism
Compact Foldable Guitar Stand by Gear4music
- Rubber base and backstop to protect your instrument's finish
- Portable and compact
- Fits almost any electric, acoustic, and bass guitar
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Spare Strings
As a guitarist, it’s essential always to have spare strings on hand. Not only will they save you time and hassle when you break a string mid-performance, but they can also help boost your sound!
Dunlop Nylon Classical Concert Guitar Strings Hard Tension
DESIGNED FOR: All guitar players
FEATURES: Optimum tonal balance and dynamic range delivered by meticulous Dunlop design
OTHER INFO: Beautifully focused low-end thanks to copper-wrapped nylon string
Dunlop Nylon Classical Concert Guitar Strings Hard Tension
- Warm, singing tone provided by Dupont Tynex treble strings
- A smooth, tactile feel enhances playability to its maximum
- Meticulously crafted to deliver superb tone, feel, and dynamic range
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Classical Guitar Brands
Summary
If you’re in the market for a classical guitar, you have plenty of options to choose from. From affordable beginner models to more advanced guitars, there are plenty of options out there!
When it comes to the world of classical guitar, there are several top classical guitar brands that have consistently garnered recognition and praise.
To help narrow down your search, it’s essential to consider your budget, playing style, and level of skill. Alhambra, Cordoba, Yamaha, and Taylor Academy are some trustworthy brands that offer quality guitars at different price points.
We hope that our recommendations for some of the best affordable classical guitar and guitars also helped you narrow down your choice.
There’s no stopping! We’re confident you’ll find the perfect one for you in no time because a guitarist that never finishes the job is a quitar!
Thank you for the informative insight on nylon string classical/flamenco guitars. My experience as a professional flamenco player, owner and collector of too many guitars has been that usually flamenco guitar necks are the same width as classical guitars, not narrower, although the string action on a flamenco is lower. Luthiers can shape a neck to a customers specific request in width and scale length but their standard models are the same. I have played crossover/fusion nylon stringed guitars made for electric guitar players that have a narrow neck width though not a true flamenco.
Thanks for the comments Stewart and sharing your experience.