Need recommendation

I'm getting the bug to play a little nylon string these days and was wondering what's out there in the sub $500 range that is also acoustic/electric? Needs to be a solid top,and doesn't matter if it's new or used-just not abused.
Are the new Fender models any good that have the solid cedar top?
Ron

[Eric.Hope]

http://cgi.ebay.com/Patrie-Presentat...item2ead181e2b

http://guitars.musiciansfriend.com/p...tar?sku=513401

La Patries are great entry-level classicals. I play a Concert CW, and am complimented on it everywhere I go. Great value for the money. As for the Fenders, I'm afraid I have no experience with them, though (and this is only speaking for myself) I think I am more comfortable purchasing a classical guitar from a company that specializes in that. La Patrie - Classical guitars is all they do. I have no idea what experience Fender has at making classicals. That said, speaking from a "specs on a page" perspective, the Fender looks OK (and comparable to the La Patries). If you're looking for a slightly narrower neck, this may be the way to go, as the La Patries all have full 2" Classical necks, which is much more traditional. Give them both a play, and see what you think.

[joehempel]

I'm partial to the Ibanez Exotic Wood series, I don't know if the Koa Wood dropped, but mine was $550 new.

[VintageToneGuy]

I have a Fender CN240sce and I like it alot. I've owned several classical acoustic\electrics and some of those costs well over $1K. While the more expensive had all solid wood construction and better electronics; none play any better than this little Fender. One day I might upgrade the electronics, but I doubt it.

In your price range you can consider the Ibanez and Washburn models also. They are nice guitars!

http://cgi.ebay.com/Ibanez-Elite-Cla...item255ab7ed3d
http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-WASHBURN-C10...item5ada1c8355

*Just a note on that Washburn model. I had previously decided to try that particular WB model but found out that everyone who had it for
salehad to order it from the factory meaning it was going to take longer to receive the guitar. Then I found the Fender and got it on clearance from MF with a case for a great price!

vtg

Thanks for the replies. You've given me some models to think about that I hadn't heard of before.

Ron

[MJScott]

I have a La Patrie that I really like, but no electronics. I also have a Yamaha NTX 700 that cost exactly the amount you set as your upper limit. I have not plugged it in, but am told they are exceptional plugged in. You may want to look at them as well. Exceptional workmanship too.

Hope this helps.

[ProgGtr]

Ibanez GA5TCE
You'll have to get this one set up but seems like a deal.

http://www.ibanez.com/AcousticGuitars/model-GA5TCE

Or spend a little more for a Cordoba GK Studio.

[brad4d8]

I had a Korean Fender hybrid nylon a few years ago, I don't remember the model. It had 14 frets, cutaway and a narrower neck than a true classical. It played fine, sounded thin acoustically but was fine amped. The thin sound probably helped to keep down feedback. This model was discontinued, but I imagine the current ones are similar.
Brad

[billgennaro]

check out this website, its full of classical and flamenco luthiers and places to buy.

http://www.theguitarsherpa.com/categ...-flamenco.html