The Best Classical Guitar: The Top 7 Contenders 2022

By Monica | Guitar

Apr 02
best classical guitar

Some of us just want to get back to the roots. Even for things like guitar, such predicament is still applicable. When we are talking about the old school, the best classical guitars always come into mind. Of course, this is an inevitable thing. After all, we all know how good the sound that this instrument can produce.

Specifically, a classical guitar has a Spanish origin. This is the reason why it is also called as a Spanish or nylon-string guitar. Unlike their modern counterparts, classical guitar is usually small. The sound they create is also softer and more mellow than the standard guitars today. Well, we are not saying that classical guitars are a better choice. If you have some inclinations to the intricate and nostalgic side of the guitar, then choosing this instrument is a valid decision.

Fortunately, you don't really need to stress yourself if you want to get a classical guitar. This instrument is widely available on the market today. Therefore, your choices would be pretty vast. However, we have to remind you that some of them might not meet your standards and expectations. Since it is a sophisticated instrument, the classical guitar should be brimming with quality.

But how would you know if a particular guitar can satisfy you? Don't worry about that either. In this article, we listed some of the top-rated classical guitars on the market today. The guitars here passed through a very detailed assembly process. You can guarantee that they are all stage-worthy! Moreover, they are not as expensive as you think! Read on and see which one can make your fingers and ears happy!

Best Classical Guitar

More...

Classical Guitar Buying Guide

It is appropriate to say that a classical guitar is a subcategory of an acoustic guitar. This particular instrument is ideal for playing classical genres and flamenco. Moreover, it is notable that classical guitars are using nylon strings, which is different from the steel-string construction of a modern guitar. Because it uses nylon, classical guitars can offer flexibility. Ideally, you can play a classical guitar by plucking its strings by the use of your fingernails. Furthermore, the classical guitar has a wide neck to ensure that each string has a good spacing between each other.

If you choose a classical guitar, you need to remember that putting a set of steel strings on it spells disaster. The tension that is caused by this type of string can result in the warping of the neck. You can put a nylon string on an acoustic guitar, but you can never put a steel string on a classical guitar. That's the golden rule that you have to remember.

Shape and Size

Classical guitars don't have a fixed size and shape. Just like other instruments and products, their physical dimensions vary as well. Of course, there is no particular rule that defines what shape or size you have to pick. However, it would be great if you would pick an instrument that can make you feel comfortable.

For example, if you have huge body frame, then you won't have a great experience in playing a small guitar. If you reverse the situation, the result would just be the same.

Therefore, it is essential that you can be able to sit with the guitar prior to your purchase. Get a hold with the instrument and try to sense if it can give you the long-term convenience that you want.

Playing the Strings

Playing the Strings

In choosing a classical guitar, you have to play all the notes first. Specifically, you should listen to each of the frets and spot those that doesn't really play well. You can't easily do this since the latter would rattle immediately. If this happens on the guitar that you are testing, then drop it down and move to another one. It just an indicator that the guitar has a poor quality.

The Action of the Strings

We already mentioned that the strings of a classical guitar should be smooth and flexible. Therefore, it is a given that you should feel this quality on any classical guitar that you come across. If you can, test the strings again. Particularly, find out the amount of pressure need to play the chords and notes. If possible, you have to play bar chords to ensure that you are applying enough pressure. If the strings are too hard, then the guitar is no good either.

Harmonics

You can test the quality of a classical guitar by playing harmonics. Specifically, this is a technique that incorporates the plucking of notes with your playing hand while slightly touching the string with your holding hand. Ideally, you have to test the harmonics of the strings starting from the 5th frets up to 19th frets. If you don't know how to do this, then you should ask someone that is knowledgeable.

The Tuning Pegs

the tuning pegs

Of course, the tuning pegs are essential components to any classical guitar. How could you even tune your guitar if the tuning pegs are not sharp and smooth? Therefore, you only need a classical guitar that allows you to control these pegs easily.

The Structure of the Guitar

You also need to examine the overall structure of the guitar. Take a look at all of its parts so that you can spot if there are any blemishes or cracks. These are production defects that you have to avoid. Moreover, you have to check if the frets were tightly installed to the fret board. Also, can you see any breaches or exposed glue on the bridge area? If any of these flaws are present, then you are holding an inferior instrument. Never buy that one!

Sound Board

Sound Board

In any type of guitar, the soundboard is always a crucial part. The latter plays an important part in the sound production of the instrument. Fortunately, there is a way to check its quality. Specifically, you just have to tap the soundboard on different parts. Does it produce a warm and reverberating sound? If the sound that it produces is dull and dead, then it is not the instrument that can give value to your money.

These are the means that you can do to guarantee that a classical guitar has good quality and sound production. Always do those procedures that we mentioned to ensure that you won't get a bad product! But if you are still not sure about everything, then let us handle your worries. Read on and see the ideal choices for classical guitars!


Best Classical Guitar:Top 7 List

The Kremona Rosa Morena Nylon String Guitar is an excellent choice if you are looking for a classical guitar. Made from the combination of European spruce and Indian rosewood, the Rosa Morena can give warm and rich tone. It also has a dynamic sound frequency, which is quite unusual but useful for classical guitars. However, you can guarantee that this one still exhibits the intricate characteristics of a flamenco guitar.

The Kremona is using an authentic and natural bone nut and saddle. This guitar is also hand-crafted by seasoned guitar makers in Europe. Therefore, you can ensure that this instrument has a premium and top-notch quality.


Pros:

  • The soundboard is made from high-quality European spruce
  • Most of the parts are hand-made
  • Can produce warm and echoing sounds
  • The strings are very smooth and flexible
  • Comes with a neck support and gig bag

Cons:

  • No drawbacks

Let's take a look at this product...


You will certainly love the sound and design quality of the Cordoba 45MR. It comes with a smooth top made from Canadian cedar. Meanwhile, it used the Madagascar rosewood for the construction of its sides and backs. With is Ebony fingerboard, you can guarantee that it can give utter convenience to you, regardless of your playing style.

Moreover, you will certainly love that it exhibits the "classic" ambiance of a Spanish guitar. Of course, this should not come with as a surprise. After all, it was a bunch of Spanish guitar makers that created this opus!


Pros:

  • Aesthetically impressive
  • It comes with a premium guitar case
  • Exquisite construction and design
  • Easy to use and play
  • It is not rough to the fingers

Cons:

  • It is quite pricey (but definitely worth it)

Let's take a look at this product...


Yamaha still found its way to the world of classical guitars. And fortunately, they didn't fail their avid fans. We know that they wouldn't, considering that they released the Yamaha NCX1200R. It uses the Sitka spruce as the sole material for its top.

Therefore, you can guarantee that it is robust and is capable of producing rich and warm sounds. On the other hand, it used rosewood for its back and sides. It also has an ebony fingerboard and mahogany neck. With the intricate placement of these parts, who could say that this classical guitar from Yamaha does not deserve a spotlight?


Pros:

  • Available in two versions (all solid and solid top)
  • Made by guitar artisans
  • It has a two-way pickup system
  • Sound production is very satisfactory
  • It is comfortable to play

Cons:

  • Its acoustic is too "soft"
  • It is a bulky guitar model

Let's take a look at this product...


The Kremona Verea is still as good as its cousin, the Rosa Morena. It also uses European spruce for its top. However, this one has been fashioned with innovation. Specifically, it comes with the Fishman Presys Blend System. With this technology on board, the Verea became an intuitive classical guitar.

You will certainly love that it has an integrated tuner and a three-band EQ. Moreover, it has a built-in microphone, as well! We are certain that most classical guitar on the market today doesn't have these amenities on them. Therefore, if you want a straightforward and convenient option, choosing the Kremona Verea is not a bad decision.


Pros:

  • Perfect balance between technology and traditional elements of classical guitars
  • High-quality and solid construction
  • It is a mixture of premium tonewoods
  • It has a Venetian cutaway
  • Comes with a 48mm neck

Cons:

  • The narrow neck size might not be suitable for all types of players

Let's take a look at this product...


The Cordoba Rose is a part of the Fusion series. Specifically, this line is a unit of high-quality guitars that use hybrid strings. The guitar still uses a nylon string. But its mechanism and action are pretty similar to a steel string.

However, the most notable feature the Cordoba Fusion 12 Rose possess is its thin neck. We observed that it is quite thinner compared to the standard neck size of Spanish guitars. Of course, it is a good thing, considering that you can opt for either a 14-fret or 12-fret model on this instrument.


Pros:

  • It can produce the warmth and tonal characteristics of classical guitars
  • The crossover of nylon and hybrid strings makes this guitar a versatile option
  • Available in various finishes and wood style
  • Comes with a two-way truss rod (Adjustable)
  • It is very smooth and friendly to the hands

Cons:

  • It produces a significant amount of vibration

Let's take a look at this product...


The construction of the Sofia from Kremona is simply astounding. The well-thought usage of West African Sapele allowed this classical guitar to have a superior tonal richness and vibrancy. Furthermore, the latter has been combined with a Red Cedar top. As a result, the instrument has a good sense of sound articulation and warmth. Playing this guitar would always be a pleasure, thanks to its smooth finish and soft strings. Meanwhile, the combination of various tonewood of this device enables it to become a dynamic and stage-worthy.


Pros:

  • Premium construction
  • It is very comfortable to play
  • Can produce articulate and distinct sound
  • Handcrafted in Bulgaria
  • Surprisingly affordable

Cons:

  • It might not be a good choice for small guitar players

Let's take a look at this product...


The last classical guitar that we will offer you is the La Patrie Guitar. This North American instrument is also a decent choice, thanks to its high-quality design and components. This particular instrument features a radiused fingerboard. Therefore, it can give it user the utmost comfort and convenience that he/ she deserves. The Cedar top of this guitar is pressured-tested as well. You can guarantee that it is not flimsy and is immune from cracks and dents. It also has an ergonomic saddle that improves its sound intonation.


Pros:

  • It has a radiused fingerboard
  • Extremely rugged top
  • Comes with a built-in tuner and pick up
  • It has a distinct tonal characteristic
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • The sound it produces is not as good as other "premium" classical guitars

Let's take a look at this product...

Final Verdict

Choosing a classical guitar can be fun but tricky. After all, we are always in pursuit of quality. We don't want to get those models that have dull sound and construction. We know that this instrument is not cheap. Therefore, being wise and keen will always be justifiable.

The classical guitars that we featured here are the cream of the crop. They are here because of their outspoken quality and performance. Don't worry. We had tested each of these guitars before we listed them here. Through this, we will be able to help you overcome the arduous choosing process.

But among these guitars, it is the Cordoba 45MR CD that really stands out. From its tonal quality down to its construction, the Cordoba 45MR is pretty unrivaled. Moreover, although it is a classical guitar, the sound it creates is still "booming" and compelling. Therefore, we didn't have any second thoughts on declaring it as the best classical guitar.

Did you learn from this article? What are your thoughts about these classical guitars? Tell us your answers in the comment section below!

Some of us just want to get back to the roots. Even for things like guitar, such predicament is still applicable. When we are talking about the old school, the best classical guitars always come into mind. Of course, this is an inevitable thing. After all, we all know how good the sound that this instrument can produce.

Specifically, a classical guitar has a Spanish origin. This is the reason why it is also called as a Spanish or nylon-string guitar. Unlike their modern counterparts, classical guitar is usually small. The sound they create is also softer and more mellow than the standard guitars today. Well, we are not saying that classical guitars are a better choice. If you have some inclinations to the intricate and nostalgic side of the guitar, then choosing this instrument is a valid decision.

Fortunately, you don’t really need to stress yourself if you want to get a classical guitar. This instrument is widely available on the market today. Therefore, your choices would be pretty vast. However, we have to remind you that some of them might not meet your standards and expectations. Since it is a sophisticated instrument, the classical guitar should be brimming with quality.

But how would you know if a particular guitar can satisfy you? Don’t worry about that either. In this article, we listed some of the top-rated classical guitars on the market today. The guitars here passed through a very detailed assembly process. You can guarantee that they are all stage-worthy! Moreover, they are not as expensive as you think! Read on and see which one can make your fingers and ears happy!

Best Classical Guitar

More…

The Best Classical GuitarBest Classical GuitarClassical Guitar Buying GuideShape and SizePlaying the StringsThe Action of the StringsHarmonicsThe Tuning PegsThe Structure of the GuitarSound BoardBest Classical Guitar:Top 7 ListKremona Rosa Morena Nylon String GuitarCordoba 45MR CD/MR Acoustic Nylon String Classical GuitarYamaha NCX1200R Acoustic-Electric Classical GuitarKremona Verea Classical GuitarCordoba Fusion 12 Rose Acoustic-Electric Nylon String Classical GuitarKremona Artist Series Sofia Classical GuitarLa Patrie Guitar, Presentation QIFinal Verdict

Classical Guitar Buying Guide

It is appropriate to say that a classical guitar is a subcategory of an acoustic guitar. This particular instrument is ideal for playing classical genres and flamenco. Moreover, it is notable that classical guitars are using nylon strings, which is different from the steel-string construction of a modern guitar. Because it uses nylon, classical guitars can offer flexibility. Ideally, you can play a classical guitar by plucking its strings by the use of your fingernails. Furthermore, the classical guitar has a wide neck to ensure that each string has a good spacing between each other.

If you choose a classical guitar, you need to remember that putting a set of steel strings on it spells disaster. The tension that is caused by this type of string can result in the warping of the neck. You can put a nylon string on an acoustic guitar, but you can never put a steel string on a classical guitar. That’s the golden rule that you have to remember.

Shape and Size

Classical guitars don’t have a fixed size and shape. Just like other instruments and products, their physical dimensions vary as well. Of course, there is no particular rule that defines what shape or size you have to pick. However, it would be great if you would pick an instrument that can make you feel comfortable.

For example, if you have huge body frame, then you won’t have a great experience in playing a small guitar. If you reverse the situation, the result would just be the same.

Therefore, it is essential that you can be able to sit with the guitar prior to your purchase. Get a hold with the instrument and try to sense if it can give you the long-term convenience that you want.

Playing the Strings

Playing the Strings

In choosing a classical guitar, you have to play all the notes first. Specifically, you should listen to each of the frets and spot those that doesn’t really play well. You can’t easily do this since the latter would rattle immediately. If this happens on the guitar that you are testing, then drop it down and move to another one. It just an indicator that the guitar has a poor quality.

The Action of the Strings

We already mentioned that the strings of a classical guitar should be smooth and flexible. Therefore, it is a given that you should feel this quality on any classical guitar that you come across. If you can, test the strings again. Particularly, find out the amount of pressure need to play the chords and notes. If possible, you have to play bar chords to ensure that you are applying enough pressure. If the strings are too hard, then the guitar is no good either.

Harmonics

You can test the quality of a classical guitar by playing harmonics. Specifically, this is a technique that incorporates the plucking of notes with your playing hand while slightly touching the string with your holding hand. Ideally, you have to test the harmonics of the strings starting from the 5th frets up to 19th frets. If you don’t know how to do this, then you should ask someone that is knowledgeable.

The Tuning Pegs

the tuning pegs

Of course, the tuning pegs are essential components to any classical guitar. How could you even tune your guitar if the tuning pegs are not sharp and smooth? Therefore, you only need a classical guitar that allows you to control these pegs easily.

The Structure of the Guitar

You also need to examine the overall structure of the guitar. Take a look at all of its parts so that you can spot if there are any blemishes or cracks. These are production defects that you have to avoid. Moreover, you have to check if the frets were tightly installed to the fret board. Also, can you see any breaches or exposed glue on the bridge area? If any of these flaws are present, then you are holding an inferior instrument. Never buy that one!

Sound Board

Sound Board

In any type of guitar, the soundboard is always a crucial part. The latter plays an important part in the sound production of the instrument. Fortunately, there is a way to check its quality. Specifically, you just have to tap the soundboard on different parts. Does it produce a warm and reverberating sound? If the sound that it produces is dull and dead, then it is not the instrument that can give value to your money.

These are the means that you can do to guarantee that a classical guitar has good quality and sound production. Always do those procedures that we mentioned to ensure that you won’t get a bad product! But if you are still not sure about everything, then let us handle your worries. Read on and see the ideal choices for classical guitars!

Best Classical Guitar:Top 7 List

Kremona Rosa Morena Nylon String Guitar

The Kremona Rosa Morena Nylon String Guitar is an excellent choice if you are looking for a classical guitar. Made from the combination of European spruce and Indian rosewood, the Rosa Morena can give warm and rich tone. It also has a dynamic sound frequency, which is quite unusual but useful for classical guitars. However, you can guarantee that this one still exhibits the intricate characteristics of a flamenco guitar.

The Kremona is using an authentic and natural bone nut and saddle. This guitar is also hand-crafted by seasoned guitar makers in Europe. Therefore, you can ensure that this instrument has a premium and top-notch quality.

Pros:

  • The soundboard is made from high-quality European spruce
  • Most of the parts are hand-made
  • Can produce warm and echoing sounds
  • The strings are very smooth and flexible
  • Comes with a neck support and gig bag

Cons:

  • No drawbacks

Let’s take a look at this product…

Cordoba 45MR CD/MR Acoustic Nylon String Classical Guitar

You will certainly love the sound and design quality of the Cordoba 45MR. It comes with a smooth top made from Canadian cedar. Meanwhile, it used the Madagascar rosewood for the construction of its sides and backs. With is Ebony fingerboard, you can guarantee that it can give utter convenience to you, regardless of your playing style.

Moreover, you will certainly love that it exhibits the “classic” ambiance of a Spanish guitar. Of course, this should not come with as a surprise. After all, it was a bunch of Spanish guitar makers that created this opus!

Pros:

  • Aesthetically impressive
  • It comes with a premium guitar case
  • Exquisite construction and design
  • Easy to use and play
  • It is not rough to the fingers

Cons:

  • It is quite pricey (but definitely worth it)

Let’s take a look at this product…

Yamaha NCX1200R Acoustic-Electric Classical Guitar

Yamaha still found its way to the world of classical guitars. And fortunately, they didn’t fail their avid fans. We know that they wouldn’t, considering that they released the Yamaha NCX1200R. It uses the Sitka spruce as the sole material for its top.

Therefore, you can guarantee that it is robust and is capable of producing rich and warm sounds. On the other hand, it used rosewood for its back and sides. It also has an ebony fingerboard and mahogany neck. With the intricate placement of these parts, who could say that this classical guitar from Yamaha does not deserve a spotlight?

Pros:

  • Available in two versions (all solid and solid top)
  • Made by guitar artisans
  • It has a two-way pickup system
  • Sound production is very satisfactory
  • It is comfortable to play

Cons:

  • Its acoustic is too “soft”
  • It is a bulky guitar model

Let’s take a look at this product…

Kremona Verea Classical Guitar

The Kremona Verea is still as good as its cousin, the Rosa Morena. It also uses European spruce for its top. However, this one has been fashioned with innovation. Specifically, it comes with the Fishman Presys Blend System. With this technology on board, the Verea became an intuitive classical guitar.

You will certainly love that it has an integrated tuner and a three-band EQ. Moreover, it has a built-in microphone, as well! We are certain that most classical guitar on the market today doesn’t have these amenities on them. Therefore, if you want a straightforward and convenient option, choosing the Kremona Verea is not a bad decision.

Pros:

  • Perfect balance between technology and traditional elements of classical guitars
  • High-quality and solid construction
  • It is a mixture of premium tonewoods
  • It has a Venetian cutaway
  • Comes with a 48mm neck

Cons:

  • The narrow neck size might not be suitable for all types of players

Let’s take a look at this product…

Cordoba Fusion 12 Rose Acoustic-Electric Nylon String Classical Guitar

The Cordoba Rose is a part of the Fusion series. Specifically, this line is a unit of high-quality guitars that use hybrid strings. The guitar still uses a nylon string. But its mechanism and action are pretty similar to a steel string.

However, the most notable feature the Cordoba Fusion 12 Rose possess is its thin neck. We observed that it is quite thinner compared to the standard neck size of Spanish guitars. Of course, it is a good thing, considering that you can opt for either a 14-fret or 12-fret model on this instrument.

Pros:

  • It can produce the warmth and tonal characteristics of classical guitars
  • The crossover of nylon and hybrid strings makes this guitar a versatile option
  • Available in various finishes and wood style
  • Comes with a two-way truss rod (Adjustable)
  • It is very smooth and friendly to the hands

Cons:

  • It produces a significant amount of vibration

Let’s take a look at this product…

Kremona Artist Series Sofia Classical Guitar

The construction of the Sofia from Kremona is simply astounding. The well-thought usage of West African Sapele allowed this classical guitar to have a superior tonal richness and vibrancy. Furthermore, the latter has been combined with a Red Cedar top. As a result, the instrument has a good sense of sound articulation and warmth. Playing this guitar would always be a pleasure, thanks to its smooth finish and soft strings. Meanwhile, the combination of various tonewood of this device enables it to become a dynamic and stage-worthy.

Pros:

  • Premium construction
  • It is very comfortable to play
  • Can produce articulate and distinct sound
  • Handcrafted in Bulgaria
  • Surprisingly affordable

Cons:

  • It might not be a good choice for small guitar players

Let’s take a look at this product…

La Patrie Guitar, Presentation QI

The last classical guitar that we will offer you is the La Patrie Guitar. This North American instrument is also a decent choice, thanks to its high-quality design and components. This particular instrument features a radiused fingerboard. Therefore, it can give it user the utmost comfort and convenience that he/ she deserves. The Cedar top of this guitar is pressured-tested as well. You can guarantee that it is not flimsy and is immune from cracks and dents. It also has an ergonomic saddle that improves its sound intonation.

Pros:

  • It has a radiused fingerboard
  • Extremely rugged top
  • Comes with a built-in tuner and pick up
  • It has a distinct tonal characteristic
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • The sound it produces is not as good as other “premium” classical guitars

Let’s take a look at this product…

Final Verdict

Choosing a classical guitar can be fun but tricky. After all, we are always in pursuit of quality. We don’t want to get those models that have dull sound and construction. We know that this instrument is not cheap. Therefore, being wise and keen will always be justifiable.

The classical guitars that we featured here are the cream of the crop. They are here because of their outspoken quality and performance. Don’t worry. We had tested each of these guitars before we listed them here. Through this, we will be able to help you overcome the arduous choosing process.

But among these guitars, it is the Cordoba 45MR CD that really stands out. From its tonal quality down to its construction, the Cordoba 45MR is pretty unrivaled. Moreover, although it is a classical guitar, the sound it creates is still “booming” and compelling. Therefore, we didn’t have any second thoughts on declaring it as the best classical guitar.

Did you learn from this article? What are your thoughts about these classical guitars? Tell us your answers in the comment section below!

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About the Author

Hi everyone! Im Monica and I am an avid lover of guitars and everything in-between. My current profession is not really music-related. It is quite discouraging but I just don't want to drop my zeal--especially not to guitars! I created GuitarTrance.Com so that I can keep up with my hobby. Of course, I want to engage with the community as well! Hope we can all get along!

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