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.
Quick Menu
- 1 Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider
- 2 Frequently Asked Questions
- 3 Top 8 Best Classical Guitars under 500$ Reviews
- 3.1 1. Kremona 6 String Soloist S65C Guitar (~349$)
- 3.2 2. Alvarez AC65 Acoustic Guitar (350$)
- 3.3 3. Cordoba C7 SP Classical Guitar (500$)
- 3.4 5. Alhambra Classical 10P-US (500$)
- 3.5 6. Ibanez GA Series GA5TCE (250$)
- 3.6 7. Yamaha C40 Classical Guitar (Best cheap classical guitar – 160$)
- 3.7 8. Cordoba Dolce 7/8 Size (295$)
- 3.8 9. Breedlove 6 String Acoustic Guitar (400$)
- 4 Conclusion
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 $130. These models are quite good for a classical guitar.
Which classical guitar should I buy?
With a finger-picking playing style, you can choose a model with a soft, mellow tone. Music styles operating well with a classical guitar include folk, flamenco, classical, as well as other Latin styles.
Acoustic guitars with a bright sound will perform better with heavier finger work.
Is a classical guitar easier to play?
The fact is that a classical guitar comes with nylon strings that are easier on the fingers compared to steel strings.
This feature can even make new players like kids easier to play. However, you cannot make your decision just based on this factor.
You can get a wider range of music if you choose steel-string acoustic guitars.
How long does it take to get good at classical guitar?
You may have to take a little longer to learn classical guitar. As a beginner, you can play simple tunes after six months.
Also, you will get a basic knowledge of how to read music.
Is classical guitar harder than the piano?
In general, the guitar requires more technical than the piano. However, it does not mean playing the piano is completely simple.
Classical guitars are much more technique-driven. Therefore, you need to play in the right rhythm.
Top 8 Best Classical Guitars under 500$ 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.
1. Kremona 6 String Soloist S65C Guitar (~349$)
Don’t ignore the Kremora if you are finding the top brands of classical guitars. This is the most beautiful and best nylon string guitar.
This brand is known for delivering handmade guitars. Soloist S65C is one of them. It is a full-size classical guitar you should consider.
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It is the right option for both beginners and intermediate guitars who want an affordable product. It comes with a durable cedar top along with the Sapele sides and back.
Moreover, it brings the mahogany neck with an impressive natural finish. It promises to provide you with great sound. It also comes with the Rosewood Bridge and fingerboard.
It is “student” or beginner friendly because it is a bit smaller than full-sized models which makes it the preferred instrument for those with small hands.
Features
- Indian rosewood fingerboard and bridge.
- African mahogany neck.
- Wood fiber binding.
- Plus, it has nylon strings ( Royal Classics strings) that can offer you a fantastic sound.
- You can transport it with ease since it has a pocketed CGGB-BK branded gig bag.
- Wood rosette
- Solid red cedar top
- Sapele back and sides
- Dovetail neck joint
- 52mm nut width
- 25.6 scale length
- Wood purfling
- Polyurethane finish
- Slotted headstock
- Kremona Arete strings
2. Alvarez AC65 Acoustic Guitar (350$)
This is an attractive classical guitar you should consider buying. It has a solid cedar top.
Moreover, it comes with a mahogany back and sides. The unit also has a classical bridge.
It is also equipped with traditional bridges and nylon strings. They need a Spanish fan bracing system. Since its braces are lighter compared to the “X” bracing system.
Therefore, it can meet the finger playing styles of different musicians. Plus, the model comes with an excellent slotted peghead.
Are Alvarez guitars expensive?
In terms of price The Alvarez-Yairi series guitars, is the most expensive guitar line Alvarez has to offer. The reason is that this guitar is completely handcrafted by masters in the guitar manufacturing industry.
That’s why the sound of the guitar is very warm, has a wonderful tone and excellent action, superb finish. Great guitar for the money!
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it wasn’t too pricey and the guitar is much more playable now than it was in stock configuration. This is a terrific beginner guitar for the serious classical student and a very good addition to a non-classical player’s collection.
They do two other versions of this guitar they do one with a cutaway and an electronic pick up in it.
Alvarez guitars are quite a reputable brand. Many people have experienced and are satisfied with this product of Alvarez guitars.
- Solid Cedar top
- Wood mosaic rosette
- Traditional fan bracing
- Bone nut and saddle
- The comfortable wider neck and the better string spacing at the nut.
Cons
- Does not come with a case
3. Cordoba C7 SP Classical Guitar (500$)
This guitar sounds fantastic. Also, it is a budget-friendly model. It comes with a durable spruce top.
Besides the durability of the wood, its spruce also add to the sound quality. The unit also has rosewood back and sides. These features will add to the overall aesthetics of the product.
If you are looking for ones that make clear sound, invest in this model. Thanks to the large soundboard, you can get a louder volume.
As a customer, you will also get a big bad from the Corboda. It is convenient for you when carrying it around.
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Are Cordoba classical guitars excellent?
Whether you play classical music, play flamenco, or just want to add a classical guitar to your musical arsenal, Cordoba guitars are an excellent option. Moreover, the price of this guitar is very good.
Does the Cordoba C7 have a truss rod?
The Cordoba C7 packs a two-way truss rod for maximum neck stability. This is a real classical guitar with nylon strings
Are Cordoba guitars made in China?
The Cordoba C series is made in China, the Master series is made in the US, and the Luthier series is made in Spain!
The main headquarters and factory is located in Oxnard, California where the Cordoba Master Series is hand-crafted.
Cordoba’s España Series is handmade in Valencia and Barcelona while the Iberia, Fusion, Luthier, and Protege Series as well as all ukuleles are handmade in China.
Pros
- Spruce top
- Rosewood back and sides
- A gig bag
- Perfect sound, thanks to Fan-pattern bracing
- A shiny finish
Cons
- The saddle may fall off
- The upper frets may vibrate with high action.
5. Alhambra Classical 10P-US (500$)
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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
6. Ibanez GA Series GA5TCE (250$)
This product is sure to offer outstanding performance at an affordable price. It comes with a beautiful golden color. Moreover, it comes with a thin line of body design. Therefore, you can access to the higher part of the neck with ease.
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It comes with the back and sides made of mahogany. The neck is also a mahogany construction. Besides, there is a slim build that allows you to use the instrument with ease. This unit is made to last for a long time.
It promises to give you the benefits of not only electric guitar but also an acoustic one. It is the right option for beginners and intermediates.
Pros
- A thin line body design
- Nylon strings
- The Ibanez piezo pickup system
Cons
- The setup has a little tweak going along the way.
7. Yamaha C40 Classical Guitar (Best cheap classical guitar – 160$)
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.
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Pros
- Spruce top
- Mahogany back and sides
- Clear sound
- Good low action
Cons
- The bag does not have protective padding.
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8. Cordoba Dolce 7/8 Size (295$)
This product is famous for its lightweight qualities. It produces classical sound.
Therefore, this one is a good option for people to find a model that allows them to take on trips with ease. Its top is made of solid Canadian cedar.
This guitar is sure to provide players with a rich, resonant sound. It comes with many full-sized nylon string guitars.
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Moreover, it has a good-quality tuning peg. It also allows you to bring your instrument to the tone you expect with ease.
It produces a full and mellow sound. Thus, it is perfect for those who want a solid practice guitar.
If you are a fan of a deep bass guitar sound, choose this one with no doubt. It is also the right choice for any traveling guitarist.
Pros
- Solid Canadian cedar top
- Mahogany back and sides
- The full, mellow sound
- High-quality tuning pegs
- Appealing appearance
Cons
- May need some adjustment
- Need more quality control
9. Breedlove 6 String Acoustic Guitar (400$)
We set out to create a guitar that would surpass the classic big body sound of the dreadnought, to bring out more tonal complexity, and to offer a much more comfortable playing experience
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The world’s most popular top wood, for a reason. Sitka has an ideal strength-to-weight ratio, yielding a strong fundamental, high velocity of sound and a pleasing elasticity.
Pros
- The Breedlove Bridge Truss (BBT) reduces tension on the soundboard of the guitar, so the top wood is able to vibrate more freely, producing remarkable sustain, balance, and clarity.
- The Breedlove Pinless Bridge helps maintain the integrity of the top by eliminating the need for six drilled string holes. The fewer holes in your soundboard, the more evenly the sound wave can move across the interior, without any loss of energy
- Breedlove guitars feature a slimmer neck profile, which enables comfortable play, even with smaller hands.
- Comes with a mahogany back and sides.
Cons
- Slightly higher price compared to entry-level models.
- Some players may find the body shape less comfortable for extended playing sessions.
- Limited color and finish options compared to other brands.
- The onboard electronics may require occasional adjustments for optimal performance.
- The specific tone and sound may not suit all musical genres or playing styles.
Pros of the Yamaha GigMaker Standard Acoustic Guitar
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Affordable Price: The GigMaker offers excellent value for its price, making it an ideal choice for beginners or budget-conscious players.
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Trusted Brand: Yamaha is known for producing reliable and quality instruments, giving you peace of mind in your purchase.
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Solid Construction: The guitar is well-built with quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity.
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Decent Sound Quality: It produces a balanced and clear sound, suitable for various playing styles.
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Comfortable Playability: The guitar’s design and neck profile offer a comfortable playing experience, especially for learners.
Read more: Top Classical Guitars Under $1000
Cons of the Yamaha GigMaker Standard Acoustic Guitar
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Basic Design: The guitar’s appearance might be considered plain or standard compared to more visually intricate models.
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Limited Customization: The options for personalization, such as finishes or inlays, might be limited compared to higher-end models.
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Entry-Level Tone: While the sound quality is good, it might not have the same richness and complexity as more expensive guitars.
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Potential for Upgrading: As your skills advance, you might outgrow the capabilities of this guitar, requiring an upgrade sooner than expected.
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Sound Projection: The guitar’s projection might not be as powerful as some higher-priced acoustic models, which could affect performance in larger settings.
Keep in mind that the pros and cons can vary based on personal preferences and individual experiences. It’s recommended to try out the guitar if possible or read reviews from other users to gain a comprehensive understanding before making a purchase decision.
What’s the difference between Yamaha Gigmaker Standard vs Deluxe Package?
First, In the GigMaker Standard Guitar Package, you get the F325D acoustic guitar – with die-cast chrome tuners (rated pretty good) and a spruce top.
Yamaha GigMaker Guitar Package includes essential accessories: a gig bag, digital tuner, strap, extra strings, picks, and an instructional DVD to kick-start your guitar playing.
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.
