The standard size for a classical guitar is typically around 39 to 40 inches in total length. The body of the guitar is usually about 19 inches long and 14.5 inches wide at its widest point. The scale length, which is the distance between the nut and the saddle, is typically around 25.6 inches. Classical guitars come in various sizes and shapes, but these measurements are considered the standard for most classical guitars.
Best Classical Guitars of May 2024
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Rating is 5 out of 5
Cordoba C5 CD Classical Acoustic Nylon String Guitar, Iberia Series
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PERFECT ENTRY LEVEL GUITAR: Ideal for aspiring classical guitarists, as well as anyone looking for the warm sound of nylon strings and comfortable playability
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BEGINNER FRIENDLY NYLON STRINGS: Lightweight and comfortable to play, nylon strings are much softer than steel strings, ideal for beginners
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52mm nut width
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
Yamaha CG102 Classical Guitar, Spruce Top, Natural
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Nylon Strings
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Spruce Top w/Nato Back and Sides
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Upgraded Tuners
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Natural Color
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Yamaha C40II Classical Guitar, Full Size, Natural
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Spruce top
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Meranti back & sides
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Rosewood fingerboard & bridge
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Gloss finish
4
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
Yamaha Student Series CGS103AII Classical Guitar, Natural
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Spruce Top
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Meranti Back & Sides
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Rosewood Fingerboard & Bridge
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Natural Finish
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
Fender Squier SA-150N Classical Acoustic Guitar - Natural Bundle with Gig Bag, Tuner, Strap, Picks, and Austin Bazaar Guitar DVD
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CLASSICAL TONES: SA-150N gives an authentic playing experience as it delivers rich and warm tones reminiscent of traditional Spanish guitar music.
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PERFECT FOR BEGINNERS: It is built to withstand the inevitable bumps and knocks that come with learning, allowing beginners to focus on honing their skills without worrying about damaging their instrument.
6
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
Fender Acoustic Classical Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Small Beginner Guitar (3/4 Size) with Nylon Strings (Easier on Fingers), Includes Guitar Bag
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One right-handed Fender Acoustic Guitar and one Gig Bag
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Smooth Tuning: The modern 3+3 headstock makes for an easy playing acoustic guitar and gives an intricate symmetrical design
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Starting with Nylon: Combines the easy playability and quintessential sound of nylon strings with the comfort of a narrower string spacing for a best-of-both-worlds feel
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Cordoba Protégé C1 Matiz Classical Guitar in Pale Sky with Color-Matching Recycled Nylon Gig Bag
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Bring your music to life in full color with the Protégé C1 Matiz!
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A fresh take on the traditional aesthetic of the nylon guitar, the Matiz series combines maple accents and traditional tone woods in 4 eye-catching colors: Aqua, Coral, Pale Sky, and Classic Blue.
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Spruce top and mahogany back and sides provide the projection and warmth associated with a nylon string guitar, while the maple headplate, bridge, and full-scale fretboard give the C1 Matiz an all new look with a lively tonal response.
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
HUAWIND 39 Inch Classical Guitar Full Size Acoustic Guitar Nylon Strings Guitar for Beginners Adults
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【Nylon Strings】： This 39-inch full size classical guitar is equipped with 6 nylon strings. Compared with steel strings, nylon strings are softer and easier to play for beginners or younger players. Very suitable for adults who like guitars.
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【About String】：The strings and wood of the new guitar need some time to adjust to the tension. So when you first start to use the guitar, you need to tune frequently. This situation will continue for a while until the tuning stabilizes.
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【Easy to Tune 】：You can tune this guitar by yourself before you play it. Tuning it is very easy! With the 15 geared professional tuning machines, the tuning is fast and standard. The tune will hold longer.
How to play basic chords on a classical guitar?
Playing basic chords on a classical guitar involves holding down multiple strings at various frets using your fingertips. Here are some steps to follow:
- Hold the guitar properly: Sit in a comfortable position with the guitar sitting on your right leg (if you are right-handed) or left leg (if you are left-handed). Make sure the guitar is resting on your thigh and held against your body with your right arm.
- Use correct hand positioning: Place your left hand on the neck of the guitar so that your thumb is behind the neck and your fingers are on top of the fretboard.
- Start with an open chord: An "open chord" means that one or more strings are played without pressing them down on any frets. For example, the E major chord is played by strumming all six strings without pressing down any frets.
- Learn the basic chords: There are several basic chords that you should learn when first starting out, such as E major, A major, D major, G major, C major, and E minor. Refer to chord charts or online resources for finger placement and strumming patterns.
- Practice transitioning between chords: Once you can play each chord individually, practice moving smoothly between them. Start by strumming each chord once and then switching to the next chord. Repeat this process until you can switch chords quickly and smoothly.
- Experiment with different strumming patterns: Once you are comfortable playing basic chords, try experimenting with different strumming patterns to add variety and dynamics to your playing. You can use a pick or your fingers to strum the strings in different rhythms and patterns.
- Practice regularly: Like any new skill, learning to play basic chords on a classical guitar takes practice. Set aside time each day to practice and gradually build up your chord repertoire and technique. Remember to be patient with yourself and enjoy the process of learning and improving.
What is the ideal string height for a classical guitar?
The ideal string height for a classical guitar is typically around 3-4 mm for the high E string and 4-5 mm for the low E string at the 12th fret. This measurement can vary depending on player preference and playing style, but these measurements are a good starting point for optimal playability and tone. It is recommended to consult with a professional guitar technician for adjustments to the string height on a classical guitar.
What is the average price range for a beginner classical guitar?
The average price range for a beginner classical guitar is typically between $100 to $300. There are higher-end models available for more experienced players that can range from $500 to $1000 or more.
