How to choose the classical guitar PERFECT for you.

So, your thinking of getting your first classical guitar.  Maybe you already have one and are looking to expand your collection with something offering more options and playability?  The available options out there can be dizzying.  Fear not, here are some tips in helping you pick your next forever home classical guitar.

Nut Width

Most true classical guitars have a wide nut width.  (pushing 2 inches)  To steel string players this is quite a big jump from their normal nut widths. (say 1.75 inches)  Most makers are now offering some sort of “crossover” model offering a smaller nut width making it more comfortable and an easier transaction from steel to classical guitar strings.

Fretboard Radius

Classical guitars usually have a flat fretboard radius.  This compounds the learning curve for steel string players making it less comfortable in the fretting hand.  Look to these new “crossover” models as they also offer a radiused fingerboard making the feel in your fretting hand much more comfortable and similar feeling to the acoustic guitars they are accustomed to.

Body Shape/Style

Body shapes and sizes have come a long way.  Aside from the typical classical guitar style style body, also available are dread-styles, orchestra models, 3/4 scales, you name it.  The bigger the body generally means more volume and projections vs smaller bodies offer more comfort and lap friendliness.

Wood Type

Mahogany, Maple, Sitka, Salele, Walnut, Rosewood…. the list goes on and on.  Different woods produce different tones, that is true.  Many offer stunning visuals of grain, quilt, streak, etc.  It comes down to what tone you want, and how pretty.  We suggest picking what sounds best to your ears.  What tone are YOU going for?

 

Strings and Picks

Of course let us not forget picks and strings.  Yes many classical players use nothing but fingers to pluck the strings, however lots of steel string players also prefer to use their trusty picks.  Classical strings are a lot more loose than steel strings.  They don’t have near the tension as steel strings.  Therefore this may cause you to want to use a more flexible pick to accommodate this difference.  Thumb picks are also an option for many styles out there.  A thumb pick in combination of fingers can lead to some very musical options.  (just ask Chet Atkins!)

Touching on strings, many people don’t realize that classical strings come in different TENSIONS.  From Medium, to Hard, this varies the feel of play greatly.  Be sure to try some different sets to see which you prefer.

Conclusion

So there you have it, a very short and concise list of things to consider when looking for your next classical acoustic guitar.  Make sure it’s comfortable and has the tone you want.  Then feel free to experiment with the different playing styles, options, and variations to come up with your own individual tone fingerprint.