Re-entering the world of classical guitar playing… Looking for a quality instrument
 

Hi folks! While in college, as a vocal performance major, I secured a classical guitar minor. I have been playing guitar since I was 13 years old, and wanted to increase the range of my skills, so I picked up that minor in Classical Guitar, which I dearly enjoyed. At that time (mid 80’s), I had an Asturias guitar, which was wonderful.

Fast forward almost 35 years since I graduated with my degree, I no longer have that classical guitar, but find myself wanting to play more classically.

As I’m re-entering this phase of playing, I want to find a quality instrument… Doesn’t have to be a $4000 instrument, but maybe something a little bit above the $700 Cordobas that I’m finding at the local guitar center. Can you guys and gals that play on a regular basis steer me in the direction of some that I might try?

Many thanks!

https://alvarezguitars.com/guitar/cc7hcear/

As a 50 year pop/country/jazz guitar player I was looking to buy my first real Classical Guitar for a reasonable amount of money. I contacted my buddies at Saint Louis Music, who suggested the Alvarez Hybrid Classical (linked above).

It has a book matched Sitka Top, and solid Walnut sizes and back. An LR Baggs pro element electronics built-in, and a 22 fret neck with a D cut, and a 15" radius. It also has a 26" scale, a Spanish Heel, and a premium Indian Laurel/Rosewood board. It sounds great, with good balance, and it records like a dream in the studio. It also has an armrest on the top, which I've grown to love. It' a great crossover guitar for those with experience on traditional electric and acoustic instruments, yet retains a true classical feel. Anyway, it's something to consider. It can be purchased for about $700 new, give or take. :-)

There will be as many suggestions as there are people on this forum.

Consider used. Consider looking on the DeCamp forum.

I have a used Kremona that I love, they are a smaller factory Guitar than Cordoba. Nice brand with a variety of price options.

Interesting that you should mention Alvarez. My main workhorse acoustic guitar is the MD 60… Chinese made, mahogany back and sides, Sitka spruce top. Absolutely destroys all of my high-end acoustics which I’m currently trying to sell… Including a brand new 2022 Martin D-41. I took out the element pickup and had a Trance Audio Amulet M pickup installed, which sounds unbelievable! I will definitely check out Alvarez… Just wish I could play some, but no one near me has them in stock.

A few suggestions. (And I also have a son named Trevor.)

There is a nice Cervantes Milenia PE for sale on the AGF right now. No affiliation with the seller, but that was the guitar I started with a few years ago when I got back into classical playing after a long hiatus (mine had a cedar top though as opposed to spruce). Excellent projection and easy to play - I only recently sold mine to fund a more expensive guitar.

You don’t mention where you live, but there’s an excellent store here in Philadelphia (The Classical Guitar Store) that might be a good resource for you. They sell very high end guitars, but also a fair number of more modest guitars. The owner, Bill Newman, has always been very helpful … whether in person or on the phone.

Lastly, the suggestion to visit the Delcamp’s website is a good one. Lots of really nice classical guitars for sale there. Best of luck with the search!

Kenny Hill New World Player models are solid wood, made in China, and come in a variety of scale lengths. I have a Sitka/Rosewood 628mm/50mm model that I have enjoyed.
I also have a Cordoba Torres Master Copy that is made at Kenny Hills facility in California. It also has a shorter scale and slightly more narrow nut(640mm/51mm). It’s an amazing instrument.
I bought both instruments used at a considerable discount from their new prices.
Navarro and Merlon Francisco are a father son pair of luthiers in Mexico who make highly regarded instruments. Their entry level solid wood guitars cost about 1200$ new. This might be a nice option.

Fortunately for you there are lots of wonderful options for you to choose from.
Good luck with your search.
Best,
Tom

Don't know about the one mentioned above, but often crossover nylon string guitars are aimed at the steel string player and have narrower necks than are usual for a true classical guitar. The few crossovers I've had over the years were okay for some stuff, but not for some classical techniques.

I have a 1987 Asturias A10s in excellent condition that you can have for just "a little bit above the $700."

I bought it in March 2021 but a few months later upgraded to a luthier-made guitar so it didn't get played much.

I'm having problem with uploading photos. Please drop me a PM.

I highly recommend looking at a Yairi classical. I recently had a 60's Yairi refretted and worked on by a very respected Bay Area luthier that builds 12k guitars and he was blown away by my Yairi. He heard the same magic I heard and commented that the guitar was truly special.

I also have a Manuel Adalid (Spain) Torres model I purchased for under 4K that is a fantastic guitar.

Have also heard good things about Pavan for the money (also made in Spain), however I have yet to play one.

Hmm . I am right across the bridge from Philly and never heard of this Classical Guitar Shop. I'm interested!

According to the store's website, they've been in business 55 years. I've bought several guitars from them over the years ... always helpful. Bill Newman, the owner, is also an excellent player and performer.

http://www.classicalguitarstore.com/

If you're in the area and enjoy classical guitar, check out the Philadelphia Classical Guitar Society. They have a number of great concerts throughout the year.

https://www.phillyguitar.org/

Thank you ! I did email Bill ,hopefully get over there after the holidays. Great info !

I’ll bet you’d love a Cervantes crossover. The Córdoba F10 is also a great choice although it does have the Flamenco vibe. I have a Cervantes Milenia PE for sale if you want to take a big step up. It is also a thing of beauty.

For classical guitar...

...without question Delcamp.

https://www.classicalguitardelcamp.c...wforum.php?f=3