Best Cheap Classical Guitar (2024 Update)

So if you’re reading this because of my headline, let get that out of the way first. I’m a weirdo for liking that classical smell. It smells gooooood! As for playability, the guitar is very comfortable. Very easy to play. My only complaint is that a couple of the strings are not keeping tune. Maybe they’re just older strings? I received the guitar about a week to two weeks ago. The tuning issue was present upon receiving the product. I thought maybe the strings were just fresh and needing some breaking in but that’s not the case.Michael

I've played a number of Ibanez electric and acoustic guitars over the years, almost bought an Ibanez 12 string A/E guitar not too long ago. I've owned nylon strings before, but not for a long time. I wanted a nice classical that I could just grab and play around the living room. This is perfect. It plays well and has a nice, soft sound that just sounds good! Highly recommend it!Jamie

Perfect guitar for a small child taking lessons. This is a real instrument not a toy. Sounds great, easy to tune, nylon strings were in perfect condition (did not have to replace), and it's beautiful! No nicks, scratches, or scuffs. Our teacher was very pleased with the quality.falkenhome

The Q&A says it's full size. It is not. It measures 29" overall. I received the guitar an when I call to complain about the description they insisted that they were selling a full size guitar. They tried to convince me that a classical guitar is smaller. Would not trust this site. On the plus side it was very easy to arrange for the return. Just a waste of time.GuitarPlayer

I purchased this guitar (the cedar version) and have played it for a few years. The action is very smooth from the factory, and the sound is very good for the price point — balanced and mellow, with crisp overtones, allowing one to play expressively. I have compared it with many guitars off the rack, some even costing twice as much (several cordoba models), as well as a friend's spruce topped classical guitar that was slightly more expensive (~$400), and we both agreed this was better. Surprisingly my guitar was both louder and had a more balanced tone despite its top being cedar, a wood which is generally can be quieter than spruce. I'd recommend this to anyone who's looking to buy a first classical guitar new. Unless you spend quite a bit more money or buy a used instrument, I doubt you'll really find a more usable instrument. It makes a perfect instrument to start on (and probably maximizes your bang for buck), and also gives you a good base should you ever want to upgrade (in which it makes sense to skip some of the models of guitars above it and pay the price for a true premium instrument). In my experience yamaha is very consistent and really shines at making guitars in the entry level price range; their quality control is impressive out of the box, whereas some other brands seem to have a broader mix of good and bad units. This model also doesn't make some of the compromises of the guitars in the price range below it, which from my experience just aren't as loud or crisp due to their laminate tops. Lastly, I like the matte finish of this instrument and it looks better in person than in pictures. This is one of the only matte classical guitars I've seen, which makes it somewhat unique. Rather than being overly glossy and perhaps trying to look more expensive than it sounds, like some of the other guitars in this price range, it has its own charm in looking attractive and more modest; other people I know have complimented its finish as well.Louis

Just an outstanding guitar. Tone is just as good as higher priced versions, and the action has been lowered from previous versions. BUT-I would strongly suggest getting the CG122MCH/Red Cedar Top in Matte Finish. It sounded better than the gloss versions, and WAY better than any of the spruce tops of this series! Also, you can spend more for different types of laminate sides, but I wouldn't. This is the best new guitar I have bought for the price, and a nice change from steel string acoustics. I bonded with this guitar from the start and just found music pouring out of it immediately. May upgrade to bone nut and saddle, but the tone already floors me. I checked out several other classical guitars, and this one was better than some $500 models. I liked it more than the popular Cordoba C5, but again, make sure to get a new one in Red Cedar and a Matte finish.Kasey

Since I bought this guitar from a Sam Ash store, it's only fair that I review it here as well. I am giving five stars for the guitar that I purchased. Other 172sf's would only only get three or four stars because of differences in their build quality. No two guitars ever play the same, even though they are identical models. This holds very true for luthier built guitars or the Yamaha CG172sf, which is mass produced in a factory in China. While each 172sf that I played, sounded fine and was put together well, this one had several characteristics that simply made it better than its conterparts. The solid Engelmann top has a much tighter, straighter grain pattern with zero run out. The top also shows a consistent silking throughout. The neck is perhaps a hair thinner than the average 172sf, making this guitar, for me, that much easier to play. The fretwork is exemplary, though none of the other 172sf's I tried fell short in this department. I simply cannot find a better sounding or playing instrument at this price! The inexpensive gold tunners are mounted perfectly. There are no creaks to be heard from the headstock when tunning up. The nut is as close to perfectly intonated as any builder could get. The only thing I replaced was the saddle which I made custom to set my own preference for the action. I play both flamenco and classical and this guitar is now perfect for both with my custom saddle. This is now the guitar I currently compare all other nylon string guitars to. It is that good! My guitar has those sonic qualities that one has trouble describing. I don't know what combination of factors truly are at work but the above mentioned traits I think are a good indication of why this particular 172sf sounds and plays so well. I would recomed playing several of these guitars before purchasing the one you will keep. For me, this is the perfect guitar. The top continues to age nicely, and there is a nice balanced sustaian somewhere between a flamenco guitar and a concert classical. The top responds well to being driven hard and percusive to being gently set in motion. I have been playing this guitar almost everyday for over two years, and it has held up superbly and only continued to improve with use. I can't say that for any of the other more expensive guitars I have owned in the past including my prize Ramirez.classical guitar aficionado

I bought the cedar top version at first but it was damaged in transit so I returned it and decided to go with the spruce version. I was a little concerned about the action being to high because I had purchased the cg192c and the action was totally unacceptable. However, I was able to sand down the saddle with enough remaining to get the action I wanted, I've owned more expensive Yamahas {cg 180 and 201s}, and I actually prefer the tone of the cg162s because of its lighter build; it has more clarity and better balance. Also, I think a lot of the so called "defects" are really accidents that happened in transit or are a result of poor storage conditions , especially warpage. I wouldn't buy an open box classical. I should also mention that the top has an amazingly tight grain all the way out to the edges. The ovankol back and sides look very much like rosewood,Mo'Brio

The gc3 has a really warm resonant sound. It is beautiful to look at. I got mine at a steal with a very slight cosmetic flaw. It is earning playing time next to my Blueridge BR371. For a different sound than steel strings I definitely recommend this guitar.tinytin56

The guitar arrived on time and was in very good condition. Everything was included as advertised. It's a good size for my 7-year-old to learn.Jonovan

Perfect guitar for a small child taking lessons. This is a real instrument not a toy. Sounds great, easy to tune, nylon strings were in perfect condition (did not have to replace), and it's beautiful! No nicks, scratches, or scuffs. Our teacher was very pleased with the quality.falkenhome

The Q&A says it's full size. It is not. It measures 29" overall. I received the guitar an when I call to complain about the description they insisted that they were selling a full size guitar. They tried to convince me that a classical guitar is smaller. Would not trust this site. On the plus side it was very easy to arrange for the return. Just a waste of time.GuitarPlayer

I've had this for two months now and I'm very very happy with it. There's no reason to pretend that this is a $1000 instrument, but for ~$150 it's a very pleasant beginner instrument. Frets are edges are nicely seated so that you never feel them when playing; instrument stays in tune. Black finish adds a nice touch. Would recommend for anyone curious about classical guitar on a tight budget.Brennan V

I bought this guitar years ago while living in LA and loved it. Great warm tone and nice resonance throughout the body. It just feels good to play. I gave it to a friend when I moved across the country to NYC. I couldn't justify moving with 3 guitars, 2 ukuleles, an accordion, & more. Something had to go, and since this guitar is cheap, this was the one. Here I am buying it again 6 years later and it's just as nice as I remember. I love that it's a more sunny yellow than most other guitars as well. Just all around a good guitar. I debated ordering nicer strings along with it but decided not too. After playing, I'm happy with the sound of the factory strings.Claire

I have always played steel string guitars. I have always wanted a classical but didn't want to dive deep into my wallet. My wife picked this up for me one year for Christmas. I play it everyday, great little guitar for the money.Ian Richardson

I upgraded from a Yamaha CG162 to this guitar a couple of months ago. The price difference is significant but worth it. With the extra money you are getting a very high quality guitar that plays well, and sounds amazing. The first thing I noticed was how much lighter the GC12 is, and how finely it's put together. The second thing I noticed was how much richer and fuller the sound is. The guitar body vibrates and hums. It's a really big step up in quality. All solid wood at this price is really nice too. The ebony fretboard is really smooth and deep black with no marks or imperfections of any kind. I passed on the spruce top and ordered the cedar based on the reviews here. The cedar is very full sounding, and projects nicely. Very happy I bought this guitar.Tony

This is the guitar for when you're ready to leave all those beginner guitars behind. The guitar is clear and crisp and snaps in the trebles, and has a beautiful tight low end. Quality tuners and built extremely well. I have three pieces of advice if you buy this guitar: 1. Get an arched back hardshell case. The case that comes with the guitar is really nice and lightweight, but I just don't trust all of these zippered polyfoam cases on the market right now. 2. Replace the factory strings with high tension strings. D'Addario 46s are great. 3. Get the cedar top version. You could shell out about twice as much for the GC32, and never have to buy another guitar again, if you have the money. But the GC12C is a really nice guitar on it's own.Green Leaf

Yamaha's equivilant to the Cordoba C9, both with solid mahogany back and sides and solid spruce or cedar top. I've played both. The Yamaha is a much better instrument all around, and sounds and plays like a dream. VERY refined tone. Cordoba likes to put heavy truss rods in their guitars, for some unknown reason. It makes the guitar heavy and awkward, and you will never ever adjust it. The cedar is much nicer than the spruce, by the way. This guitar is NOT bass heavy, or "favor the lower registers" as some reviewers have said. That's a general statement for cedar/mahogany, and does not apply to the GC12 cedar. This guitar sparkles in the trebles, and has a tight, refined tone in the bass. Put on high tension strings and lower the action, which is too high from the factory, as on most guitars. If you can't afford a 5,000 – 10,000 guitar, but want a very high quality factory made instrument, go for this. Another reviewer is right in that the rosewood models (GC22 and up) are not worth the extra money, in my opinion.Arlene

The guitar is too light and it sounds hollow. The one I bought the saddle is not securely fixed on the sound board, there is a gap between the corner of the saddle and the sound board.kiddn123

I was looking for a good beginner's guitar, and I wanted something with nylon strings. I did a pretty extensive search in order to find an instrument that was relatively inexpensive yet had some degree of quality. I read reviews on this particular model, and most seemed to be pleased. I was able to purchase one that, I'm guessing, had been returned, and I was very pleased with both the reduced price and the condition/quality of the guitar. The guitar itself has a very beautiful and mellow tone. It stays in tune, only requiring minor adjustments from time-to-time. I would not recommend this for young people or those adults with smaller hands, as the neck is somewhat wider than one might expect. All-in-all a very fine instrument for the price.Swewpa

This is the best beginner/student classical guitar there is bar none. It's full size and the intonation is spot on, the tuners (whilst basic) are fully functional and consistent. The bridge saddle has 3rd string compensation and is set to a low-ish action. Putting a new set of EJ45's opens up the sound considerably (don't play with the crappy strings that are on it). Great second or studio guitar for the experienced player. Stick it in a half decent case and you'll have a fantastic holiday guitar for around £150. The spruce soundboard already sounds good and will improve with age. Buy, play it – chuck it about. – it's very well made and robust. Finish is shiny and cleans with a wipe. Buy it today.Warwick M.

We purchased two of these for my pre-teens, who have been studying guitar in school. Both loved the instruments, which match the model they use in school. Nice, clean, warm sound, and clearly well-made instruments.Amy Beee

I have been playing classical since age 12, I am now 72. I have found this instrument to be most comfortable and responsive to my needs. I still have my first guitar that was purchased by my parents in 1954. As I play for my own pleasure and an occasional recital, I have found much satisfaction with this product. My son gave it to me 2 years ago for a birthday present. This instrument "fits" me perfectly. The neck is of perfect dimension for my left hand and fingers. As I transitioned from my first guitar to this one, I found it to be so comfortable. As I do not use much, if any, amplification, it is nice for large rooms like church buildings or recitals. The most expensive is not necessarily the best. The instrument must compliment the human body. Thank you for allowing me to comment on this instrument.Sounds of the past

I have several classical guitars, and this was the least expensive. It has become my go-to guitar for gigging, including a few spots for TV. At home, this Ibanez is the one that was always out of the case on a stand, ready to pick up whenever. So it became comfortable, but then noticeably reliable. It stays in tune. The electronics sound better than the Fishman on another that I have, particularly the bass response. The tuners (particularly the low E) have withstood routine changes to drop D a few times while playing, without obvious sign of wear. When I first started gigging I used another great sounding guitar but then changed to the Ibanez to protect the other(s) from bumps, weather, people, and other hazards. If something terrible happened to my guitar collection, probably the first replacement might be this Ibanez.Tim - ATL

This was a birthday present for my wife and this did not disappoint. She was very happy and loves playing it. Spunds excellentReviewed by guitarguitar custome

This is my first classical guitar and , having owned many (12) guitars, I have found that I am impressed with this one. I like the finish and tone a lot. It stays in tune and looks impressive. Really good "bang for the buck" and the included accessories only add to this value. 'Friends like it too.Tom

I received this guitar for Christmas. Sounds nice, plays nice. Had bad buzzing on low E from first fret. Neck was ever so slightly bowed. Upon closer examination there was a long lineal split in the fret board starting at the first fret high E, skipping down to the 10th fret. A lame attempt was made to cover it up. The frets are sharp, like right off of the cutter, no sanding, mass production style. The rest of the guitar body was flawless and the FMH looks great. It has a reasonably full sound for a mini guitar. There are plenty of good reviews out there for you. I just wanted to let folks know about these potential issues. Despite these issues, I'm exchanging this guitar for another of the same and hope this particular one was a fluke. Cordoba has a good reputation.DRZ

The first thing I liked about the mini ii fmh was the action; it is nicely balanced and easy to reach the higher fret chords. The fret spacing is smaller, but it isn't too crucial. The guitar's body depth is really nice since it's fun to hold, it is lighter, and space-saving. Visually, it is different than my other guitars and draws me to pick up the instrument often. It reminds me of a ukulele, comfortability, but it is hard to believe it is an actual classical guitar. The instrument is very refined – highly recommend.neptune

Excellent fit and finish, especially for the price. Upgraded standard features not usually included with nylon-string guitars: truss rod (crucial), both strap buttons, and solid peghead (slotted pegheads are a hassle). The wide string spacing allows for best chord articulation at the left hand. The tone is crisp and full and the volume is good. Intonation is superior. Altogether a great guitar for a great price. I'm sure the regular Mini II would be just as good for even less money, but it was out of stock and I didn't want to wait.Bruce The Woodworker

Bought this for my 7y/o son, we've started guitar lessons, thought it's going to be fine for his first guitar, but it's terrible. Some frets are defected and it doesn't hold the tune. It's what our guitar teacher said. (Well he was the one who recommended to buy a cheaper version for the first guitar, and he has the one from Walmart, so I think it's just this brand or something) just don't buy this one unless it's just for fun.Nick

If you want your child to feel discouraged and never pick up a guitar again then this is the right fit for you. The guitar can’t be tuned properly and is built so poorly, I can’t believe it’s allowed to be sold. So it is literally impossible for a child to learn on.MmMm40

I bought this in the last week of July and got it a couple days after. Within 5 days of getting it, the plastic bar on the wood that holds the strings came off and now it's practically useless because it won't go back in and all the strings are loose. I tried to return it within 7 days but they wouldn't take it back because I don't have the original box that it came in but I do have everything else which is fine I guess but now I'm being juggled between the actual manufacturers of the product and the source and it's really not worth the money.Kiwi08

I love this guitar, especially for the price, my last guitar was a Godin which cost $900.00. My Angel Lopez is equally as good if not better.stewarcohe0