There are not so many stringed musical instruments that can make pure tones as classical guitars do. However, most classical models are quite expensive. They can produce rich natural sounds.
Moreover, they have become more and more popular these days. You can see hundreds of options out there.
If you are finding the best classical guitars under 500, keep reading this article.
Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider
It may be hard to find the best classical guitars for you among hundreds of products available out there.
You should know the essential features to look for when buying a classical guitar.
Here are some necessary things to keep in mind when shopping for a classical guitar.
Guitar Accessories
Most models out there have extra accessories, such as capo, string sets, and tuners. They are to enhance the quality of the sound. It may not be easy to access them on your own.
Therefore, you should choose one that already comes with these accessories.
Wood Types
There are several types of woods available out there. The best kind will depend on your personal needs. For instance, if you want to get a solid and hollow one, you should choose cedar. Mahogany is thicker.
Design
This factor is more important than you may know. If you choose a comfortable one, you can play your instrument better. Besides, the shape of the fretboard also plays an essential part in the design.
If you are a beginner, it is best to go for a smaller fretboard with less space between the strings. On the contrary, a larger fretboard is suitable for professionals.
Size
You should choose one with the size that matches your physical size. It means that full size and bigger guitars are suitable for the bigger guitarist. On the contrary, the smaller guitarist should go for half-sized or 3/4 models.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price of a good classical guitar?
To save your time on the Internet, you need to know the cheapest price of these models ranges from $40-$5000.
Also, you will see many affordable products with a price ranging around $130. These models are quite good for a classical guitar.
Which classical guitar should I buy?
With a finger-picking playing style, you can choose a model with a soft, mellow tone. Music styles operating well with a classical guitar include folk, flamenco, classical, as well as other Latin styles.
Acoustic guitars with a bright sound will perform better with heavier finger work.
Is a classical guitar easier to play?
The fact is that a classical guitar comes with nylon strings that are easier on the fingers compared to steel strings.
This feature can even make new players like kids easier to play. However, you cannot make your decision just based on this factor.
You can get a wider range of music if you choose steel-string acoustic guitars.
How long does it take to get good at classical guitar?
You may have to take a little longer to learn classical guitar. As a beginner, you can play simple tunes after six months.
Also, you will get a basic knowledge of how to read music.
Is classical guitar harder than the piano?
In general, the guitar requires more technical than the piano. However, it does not mean playing the piano is completely simple.
Classical guitars are much more technique-driven. Therefore, you need to play in the right rhythm.
Best Classical Guitars under 500$ Reviews
We will show you a list of the top ten best models on the market now.
These products will not break the bank. Also, they can help you make the right choice.
Kremona 6 String Soloist S65C Guitar (~349$)
Don’t ignore the Kremora if you are finding the top brands of classical guitars. This is the most beautiful and best nylon string guitar.
This brand is known for delivering handmade guitars. Soloist S65C is one of them. It is a full-size classical guitar you should consider.
It is the right option for both beginners and intermediate guitars who want an affordable product. It comes with a durable cedar top along with the Sapele sides and back.
Moreover, it brings the mahogany neck with an impressive natural finish. It promises to provide you with great sound. It also comes with the Rosewood Bridge and fingerboard.
It is “student” or beginner friendly because it is a bit smaller than full-sized models which makes it the preferred instrument for those with small hands.
Features
- Indian rosewood fingerboard and bridge.
- African mahogany neck.
- Wood fiber binding.
- Plus, it has nylon strings ( Royal Classics strings) that can offer you a fantastic sound.
- You can transport it with ease since it has a pocketed CGGB-BK branded gig bag.
- Wood rosette
- Solid red cedar top
- Sapele back and sides
- Dovetail neck joint
- 52mm nut width
- 25.6 scale length
- Wood purfling
- Polyurethane finish
- Slotted headstock
- Kremona Arete strings
Cordoba C7 SP Classical Guitar (500$)
This guitar sounds fantastic. Also, it is a budget-friendly model. It comes with a durable spruce top.
Besides the durability of the wood, its spruce also add to the sound quality. The unit also has rosewood back and sides. These features will add to the overall aesthetics of the product.
If you are looking for ones that make clear sound, invest in this model. Thanks to the large soundboard, you can get a louder volume.
As a customer, you will also get a big bad from the Corboda. It is convenient for you when carrying it around.
Are Cordoba classical guitars excellent?
Whether you play classical music, play flamenco, or just want to add a classical guitar to your musical arsenal, Cordoba guitars are an excellent option. Moreover, the price of this guitar is very good.
Does the Cordoba C7 have a truss rod?
The Cordoba C7 packs a two-way truss rod for maximum neck stability. This is a real classical guitar with nylon strings
Are Cordoba guitars made in China?
The Cordoba C series is made in China, the Master series is made in the US, and the Luthier series is made in Spain!
The main headquarters and factory is located in Oxnard, California where the Cordoba Master Series is hand-crafted.
Cordoba’s España Series is handmade in Valencia and Barcelona while the Iberia, Fusion, Luthier, and Protege Series as well as all ukuleles are handmade in China.
Pros
- Spruce top
- Rosewood back and sides
- A gig bag
- Perfect sound, thanks to Fan-pattern bracing
- A shiny finish
Cons
- The saddle may fall off
- The upper frets may vibrate with high action.
Alhambra Classical 10P-US (500$)
If you are going for a solid product, you should consider the Alhambra Classical 10P-US.
Some models have cutaways. They are suitable for people who want to get reach the frets. Moreover, it comes in two varieties, including one open pore finish, and one glossy finish.
This guitar is lightweight. Therefore, it is excellent for those who need to move around a lot with their instruments.
It has a rosewood fingerboard and bridge. Moreover, there is the mahogany back and sides.
Besides, it is also packed with a soft case that you can use to keep your instrument safe when you do not use it.
Alhambra Classical 10P-US is completely handcrafted by the hands of skilled craftsmen. They have used years of experience making guitars to create the best classical guitar with bass; Mid-range and treble are perfectly balanced with incredible sound projection.
The Alhambra Classical 10P-US is a modern guitar geared towards guitarists and guitar lovers alike.
Pros
- Comes in a wide range of varieties
- Comes with a cedar wood top, mahogany back and sides
- Includes a soft case
- Has a lightweight design
Cons
- Still, be a new model in the market
Ibanez GA Series GA5TCE (250$)
This product is sure to offer outstanding performance at an affordable price. It comes with a beautiful golden color. Moreover, it comes with a thin line of body design. Therefore, you can access to the higher part of the neck with ease.
It comes with the back and sides made of mahogany. The neck is also a mahogany construction. Besides, there is a slim build that allows you to use the instrument with ease. This unit is made to last for a long time.
It promises to give you the benefits of not only electric guitar but also an acoustic one. It is the right option for beginners and intermediates.
Pros
- A thin line body design
- Nylon strings
- The Ibanez piezo pickup system
Cons
- The setup has a little tweak going along the way.
Yamaha C40 Classical Guitar (Best cheap classical guitar – 160$)
When it comes to the best classical guitar, we highly recommend you to buy the Yamaha C40. This product is one of the most favorite models out there because of its affordability and quality.
The back and sides are made of Indonesia mahogany. Therefore, it can stay strong and durable.
It can withstand any intense practice session the players put in. The guitar will remain fresh for years thanks to the melamine gloss finish. It is the right purchase for those who are taking guitar lessons.
Pros
- Spruce top
- Mahogany back and sides
- Clear sound
- Good low action
Cons
- The bag does not have protective padding.
Cordoba Dolce 7/8 Size (295$)
This product is famous for its lightweight qualities. It produces classical sound.
Therefore, this one is a good option for people to find a model that allows them to take on trips with ease. Its top is made of solid Canadian cedar.
This guitar is sure to provide players with a rich, resonant sound. It comes with many full-sized nylon string guitars.
Moreover, it has a good-quality tuning peg. It also allows you to bring your instrument to the tone you expect with ease.
It produces a full and mellow sound. Thus, it is perfect for those who want a solid practice guitar.
If you are a fan of a deep bass guitar sound, choose this one with no doubt. It is also the right choice for any traveling guitarist.
Pros
- Solid Canadian cedar top
- Mahogany back and sides
- The full, mellow sound
- High-quality tuning pegs
- Appealing appearance
Cons
- May need some adjustment
- Need more quality control
Conclusion
With the best classical (acoustic) guitar under $500, you will get any feature as playability, durability, or audio quality you expect.
All of the ten products above are highly playable. They are also reliable.
They are the right choices for players of any skill level.
Hopefully, this post offers the insight you need, and it will help you make the right decision.