If you’re new to the world of Classical Guitar, the mere thought of shopping for an instrument can seem terrifying. Who are the reputable dealers? What exactly am I looking for? What are the top brands? How can I evaluate what I’m trying out if I don’t even know how to play?
Unfortunately, the market is flooded with poorly made instruments that sound terrible, won’t stay in tune, or even have structural problems that will render them unplayable just after the warranty has expired. The selection of an instrument is the most important decision you will make on this new journey. Not only do you need something that is playable, you also need a guitar that you will fall in love with and that will inspire you to practice.
At my studio, I try to make this process as easy as possible. For beginners, I recommend guitars made by either Cordoba or Yamaha. The first step is to determine what size instrument you need. Both manufacturers build at about the same scale, so you can refer to the following sizing table to determine which size guitar is appropriate.
| Full Size or 7/8 Size | 3/4 Size | 1/2 Size | 1/4 Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age 11+ | Age 8-11 | Age 6-8 | Age 4-6 |
| 5’ Or Taller | 4’6” – 4’11” | 3’10” – 4’5” | 3’3” – 3’9” |
Once you know which size you need, you can refer to the following Guitar Size-Model table to select an instrument based on your budget and availability (not all models in the table have hyper-links because some have been discontinued; I included them because you may still be able to find used versions of those instruments).
| Brand & Series |
Full Size | 7/8 Size | 3/4 Size | 1/2 Size | 1/4 Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Córdoba C100 | C100M | N/A | C100M 3/4 | N/A | N/A |
| Córdoba C1M | C1M | N/A | C1M 3/4 | C1M 1/2 | C1M 1/4 |
| Córdoba C1 | C1 | N/A | C1 3/4 | C1 1/2 | C1 1/4 |
| Córdoba C5 | C5 | Dolce | Cadete | Requinto | N/A |
| Yamaha C40 | C40II | C40II 7/8 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Yamaha CGS | CGS104A | N/A | CGS103A | CGS102A | N/A |
You will also need a case for the guitar. A “gig bag” is the best choice for student-level instruments (and often the only option for fractional-size models). Córdoba’s Protégé models (C1 & C1M) and C100 guitar pack typically come with a simple, nylon bag. Models in the C5 range typically get paired with Córdoba’s Deluxe Gig Bag (which costs extra but is worth the investment). Yamaha’s GigMaker pack also includes a simple gig bag, but unfortunately their CGS “Schools” series instruments don’t include a bag and they don’t offer a product appropriate for guitars at this price point. You will most likely have to buy a “house brand” bag or some other economy product, and you might not be able to find a perfect fit for fractional size guitars.
A hardshell case is appropriate for a more expensive instrument. HumiCase has become one of the more popular brands for Classical Guitars, but there are other options by Bam, TKL, Yamaha and others. Remember that instrument cases tend to take a beating and that you may be setting yourself up for disappointment by purchasing a beautiful and expensive case (I’m thinking of carbon fiber shells, which tend to scratch very easily). In my opinion, it is best to keep it simple and rugged. Arched, plywood shells tend to be sturdier and more protective against impact but are also more expensive. The TKL double-arched case is one of the more expensive plywood cases and often seems to be a special-order item.
As an informed consumer, you can purchase a suitable instrument without having advanced skills on the instrument. We can evaluate your newly acquired guitar in our next lesson and determine if there are any problems that need to be addressed within the retailer’s return policy period. I’m here to make this process as easy and relaxed as possible. Together, we can select the required equipment that will allow you to succeed on this wonderful new journey that will provide you with endless hours of creative fulfillment!