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10 Best Classical Guitars 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Fender FA-25N 3/4 Size Nylon String Acoustic Guitar, Beginner Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Perfect for Kids that is Easy on Fingers, Includes Free Lessons, Natural

The Fender 6 String Acoustic Guitar (FA-25N) is an excellent choice for beginners, especially kids and those with smaller hands. Its 3/4 size body makes it lightweight and easy to handle, which is perfect for new players learning the ropes. The nylon strings provide a gentle touch, making it comfortable for fingers that are not yet accustomed to the pressure of playing. With a scale length of 23.3 inches, it offers a manageable reach for younger musicians, while the C-shaped neck is designed to enhance playability.

One of the standout features is the included subscription to Fender Play, which gives access to a wealth of instructional videos and lessons. This can significantly boost a beginner's confidence and skills as they learn to play their favorite songs. The guitar's construction, with a combination of Agathis wood for the top and Sapele for the back, delivers a warm tone, while the walnut bridge adds to the overall tonal smoothness.

The smaller size may not suit everyone, particularly adult players accustomed to full-sized guitars. Additionally, while the sound quality is good for a beginner instrument, more advanced players might find it lacking in depth and projection compared to higher-end models. The guitar is backed by a 2-year limited warranty, ensuring peace of mind regarding quality and craftsmanship, which is a hallmark of the Fender brand. With its combination of thoughtful design and accessibility, the Fender FA-25N is a solid choice for anyone beginning their guitar journey.

#2

Yamaha 6 String Scale Beginner Classical Guitar-Natural Finish, Right Handed, Full Size (C40II)

Rating
9.6
Action

Most important from
1285 reviews

Action
The guitar punches way above its price point with very nice action and excellent sound quality.

The Yamaha C40II classical guitar is a great option for beginners. It features a spruce top, which is known for its bright and clear tone, and meranti back and sides that provide a balanced sound. The rosewood fingerboard and bridge add to the quality of the instrument, making it comfortable and durable. With a full-size body and a 25.0-inch scale length, it offers a traditional playing experience suitable for most classical guitar pieces.

The neck, made from nato wood, is designed to be easy to handle, especially for those new to classical guitar. The plastic strings are extra light, which is easier on the fingers for beginners, but they may not produce as rich a sound as nylon strings. The fixed bridge system ensures stable tuning, which is essential for consistent playability. Some might find the action (the height of the strings from the fretboard) a bit high, which could make playing more challenging.

The guitar is lightweight at 3.3 pounds, making it easy to carry and handle. This Yamaha guitar is a solid and affordable choice for beginners looking to start their classical guitar journey.

Rating
9.6
Action

Most important from
1285 reviews

Action
The guitar punches way above its price point with very nice action and excellent sound quality.
#3

Fender CN-60S Concert Nylon String Acoustic Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Natural

Rating
9.3
Body Size and Shape
String Type
Action

Most important from
1762 reviews

Body Size and Shape
Despite initial concerns about its size, it feels comfortable and normal after getting used to it.
String Type
Switching to D'Addario .10s strings enhanced the sustain and tone, making it ideal for casual playing.
Action
The guitar needed no additional setup; the string height and relief were perfect right out of the box.

The Fender CN-60S Concert Nylon String Acoustic Guitar is a well-rounded choice for classical guitar enthusiasts and beginners alike. With a solid spruce top combined with laminated mahogany back and sides, the guitar offers a balanced and warm tone that is characteristic of classical guitars. The mahogany neck and walnut fingerboard suggest a sturdy build and smooth playability, which are crucial for developing players. The scale length of 25.3 inches is standard for classical guitars, providing a comfortable reach for most hand sizes.

The use of nylon strings on the Fender CN-60S ensures a softer, mellower sound compared to steel strings, making it ideal for classical and fingerstyle play. This also makes it easier on the fingers, which is beneficial for beginners. The body shape, being concert-sized, is smaller and more manageable for younger players or those who prefer a snug fit.

However, the laminated back and sides may not provide the same resonance and projection as fully solid wood guitars, which might be a consideration for more advanced players seeking deeper tonal qualities. The action, or string height, is not specified but is a critical factor for playability; adjustments may be necessary based on individual preference. At 7.4 pounds, the guitar is lightweight, adding to its portability and ease of handling. This guitar is ideal for right-handed players and comes with a two-year warranty, offering peace of mind for long-term use. With Fender's reputation for quality, the CN-60S represents a good investment for those looking to delve into the world of classical guitar playing.

Rating
9.3
Body Size and Shape
String Type
Action

Most important from
1762 reviews

Body Size and Shape
Despite initial concerns about its size, it feels comfortable and normal after getting used to it.
String Type
Switching to D'Addario .10s strings enhanced the sustain and tone, making it ideal for casual playing.
Action
The guitar needed no additional setup; the string height and relief were perfect right out of the box.

Buying Guide for the Best Classical Guitars

Choosing the right classical guitar can be a rewarding experience, but it requires some understanding of the key specifications that differentiate one model from another. By focusing on these key specs, you can find a guitar that suits your playing style, skill level, and personal preferences. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting a classical guitar.
TonewoodTonewood refers to the type of wood used in the construction of the guitar, particularly the top, back, and sides. This is important because different woods produce different sounds. For example, spruce tops are known for their bright and clear tone, while cedar tops offer a warmer, more mellow sound. If you prefer a brighter sound, go for spruce. If you like a warmer tone, cedar might be the better choice. The back and sides also contribute to the overall sound, with rosewood providing a rich, full tone and mahogany offering a more balanced sound.
Neck WidthThe neck width of a classical guitar affects playability, especially for beginners or those with smaller hands. Classical guitars typically have wider necks compared to other types of guitars. A standard classical guitar neck is about 2 inches wide at the nut. If you have smaller hands or are just starting out, you might find a slightly narrower neck more comfortable. Conversely, if you have larger hands or prefer more space between the strings, a standard or wider neck might be better.
Scale LengthScale length is the distance from the nut to the saddle and affects the tension and feel of the strings. Classical guitars usually have a scale length of around 25.6 inches. A longer scale length means higher string tension, which can produce a louder and more resonant sound but may be harder to play. A shorter scale length has lower tension, making it easier to play but potentially sacrificing some volume and resonance. Choose a scale length that feels comfortable for your playing style and hand strength.
Body Size and ShapeThe size and shape of the guitar body influence both the sound and comfort of the instrument. Classical guitars come in various sizes, from full-size to smaller, more compact models. A full-size guitar typically offers a richer, fuller sound, while a smaller body might be more comfortable to hold and play, especially for younger players or those with smaller frames. Consider your body size and how comfortable you feel holding the guitar when making your choice.
String TypeClassical guitars use nylon strings, which are softer on the fingers and produce a warm, mellow tone. However, there are different types of nylon strings, such as high-tension and low-tension. High-tension strings offer more volume and a brighter tone but can be harder to press down. Low-tension strings are easier to play but may not be as loud or bright. If you're a beginner, you might prefer low-tension strings for their ease of play. More experienced players might choose high-tension strings for their enhanced sound quality.
ActionAction refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard. This is important because it affects playability and comfort. Lower action makes it easier to press the strings down, which is ideal for beginners or those who play for extended periods. Higher action can produce a cleaner sound with less buzzing but requires more finger strength. If you're just starting out or prefer a more comfortable playing experience, look for a guitar with lower action. If you're an advanced player seeking better sound quality, you might opt for higher action.

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