Are you looking for the Best Classical Guitar To Buy? If so, you’ve come to the right place.
Choosing the Best Classical Guitar To Buy can be difficult as there are so many considerations, such as Giannini, Kremona, Ortega, Ibanez, Yamaha, Takamine, Godin, Córdoba. We have done a lot of research to find the top 20 Best Classical Guitar To Buy available.
The average cost is $758.74. Sold comparable range in price from a low of $264.70 to a high of $1299.00.
Based on the research we did, we think Cordoba C5 Limited Classical Guitar is the best overall. Read on for the rest of the great options and our buying guide, where you can find all the information you need to know before making an informed purchase.
20 Best Classical Guitar To Buy (20 Sellers)
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Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Attractive . Well made . Lightweight . Durable
Features:
- Build classical
- Construction solid top
- Body top: solid western red cedar
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Attractive . Well made . Lightweight . Durable
Features:
- All-wood traditional rosette
- 4-ply maple and black top purfling
- 3-ply maple and black back purfling
$650.00
4.6
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Attractive . Well made . Durable . Lightweight
Features:
- Solid canadian cedarback & sides.
- Solid mahoganybinding/bridge.
- Indian rosewood binding / indian rosewood bridgepurfling/inlay.
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Attractive . Well made . Lightweight . Durable
Features:
- Solid canadian cedar top
- Mahogany back and sides
- Lightweight, 1/2 size classical
$527.12
4.6
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Attractive . Well made . Lightweight . Durable
Features:
- A traditional solid-topped classical pairing western red cedar and rosewood.
- *grain pattern may vary.
$764.95
4.7
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Attractive . Well made . Durable . Lightweight
Features:
- Thinner, narrower neck and built-in electronics make this an ideal crossover guitar.
- Rich, balanced tone courtesy of premium tonewoods.
- Excellent projection and dynamics due to the classic fan bracing constructi.
$1099.00
4.8
Reviewers Noted:
Well made . Good sound quality . Durable . Attractive . Weight
Features:
- All-solid indian rosewood back and sides
- Solid canadian cedar top
- Lightweight african mahogany neck with an ebony fingerboard
$899.00
4.7
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Attractive . Well made . Durable . Lightweight
Features:
- Solid european spruce top
- Flamed maple back and sides
- Fishman presys blend electronics with onboard tuner
$704.00
4.7
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Attractive . Well made . Durable . Lightweight
Features:
- Construction
- Top bracing pattern
- Soundhole diameter
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Attractive . Durable . Well made . Lightweight
Features:
- Solid canadian cedar top with solid mahogany back and sides
- Lightweight, 7/8 size classical guitar
- Hand inlaid mother-of-pearl "esteso" rosette
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Attractive . Well made . Lightweight . Durable
Features:
- True flamenco
- Cypress back and sides
- Full size
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Attractive . Well made . Lightweight . Durable
Features:
- Solid canadian cedar top
- Mahogany back and sides
- Lightweight, 3/4 size classical, 48mm nut width
$759.99
4.6
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Attractive . Well made . Lightweight . Durable
Features:
- Solid canadian cedar top with solid mahogany back and sides
- Lightweight, 7/8 size classical guitar, 630mm scale length
- Hand inlaid mother-of-pearl "esteso" rosette
$999.99
4.9
Reviewers Noted:
Attractive . Well made . Good sound quality . Comfortable . Lightweight
Features:
- Solid canadian cedar top with rosewood binding, open pore natural finish
- Rosewood back & sides
- Rosewood fingerboard, mahogany neck, 650mm radius
$979.00
4.6
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Attractive . Well made . Lightweight . Durable
Features:
- Solid canadian cedar top with solid mahogany back and sides
- 48mm nut width with comfortably curved 16-inch radiused ebony fingerboard
- Hand inlaid mother-of-pearl "esteso" rosette
Reviewers Noted:
Well made . Durability . Sound quality . Visual appeal . Weight
Features:
- Pro-arte classical guitar strings.
- Ej46ff carbon strings.
- Silver plated wrap, composite dynacore, carbon trebles.
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Durable . Attractive . Well made . Lightweight
Features:
- Great-sounding guitar at an amazing price.
- Traditional spanish fan bracing provides a balanced, lively sound.
- Indian rosewood back and sides for full-bodied frequency response.
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Well made . Attractive . Durability . Weight
Features:
- Fusion neck delivers comfortable playability
- Classic tonewood combination offers big tone
- Classic looks and build
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Visual appeal . Durability . Craftsmanship
Features:
- Body shape: grand concert
- Top: lutz spruce, solid
- Academy series bracing
$929.00
4.7
Reviewers Noted:
Good sound quality . Attractive . Well made . Durable . Lightweight
Features:
- Dimensions (overall): 5.1 inches (h) x 18.1 inches (w) x 40.5 inches (d).
- Weight: 5.7 pounds.
- Electronics condition: new.
1. Cordoba C5 Limited Classical Guitar
Product Details:
A beautiful limited edition for limited time only, the top-selling c5 is available with flamed mahogany back and sides. perfect as a first nylon-string guitar, this lightweight model is built with a solid canadian cedar top and produces a warm, well-rounded tone with beautiful sustain. handmade in the traditional spanish style, the c5's carved headstock, hand-inlaid wood rosette, indian rosewood binding, savarez strings, and glossy pu finish result in a guitar that truly stands out from all other entry-level options. a lightweight adjustable truss rod is built into the neck for stability.
Specifications:
Construction | Solid Top |
Body Top | Solid Western Red Cedar |
Top Bracing Pattern | Fan |
Soundhole Diameter | 84mm (3 1/3") |
Rosette | All Wood Traditional |
Top Binding | Composite |
Back and Sides Wood | Flamed Mahogany |
Neck Material | Mahogany |
Scale Length | 650mm (25 1/2") |
Neck Shape | C Shape |
Nut Width | 52mm (2") |
Neck Thickness 1st Fret | 21mm |
Neck Thickness 9th Fret | 24mm |
Truss Rod | Dual Action |
Truss Rod Wrench | 4mm Allen Key |
Fingerboard Material | Pau Ferro |
Frets Total | 19 |
Finish | Gloss Polyurethane |
Bridge Material | Pau Ferro |
Saddle Material | Bone |
Nut Material | Bone |
Tuning Machines | Cordoba Gold with Pearl Buttons |
Upper Bout Width | 292mm (11 1/2") |
Lower Bout Width | 371mm (14 5/8") |
Body Depth Upper Bout | 95mm (3 3/4") |
Body Depth Lower Bout | 100mm (4") |
Body Length | 489mm (19 1/4") |
Reviews:
This was my upgrade from a Lucero 150se and what a difference it made. In terms of playability there's no comparison, the Cordoba is superior in every way. Start with the tuners/nut which are perfectly smooth allowing you to make small adjustments even on steel strings. Playing the Cordoba is simply easier and there were things I could not do well on the Lucero due to the thickness of the wood neck. Mind you I'm not talking about the nut width which is 50mm on both, I'm talking the actual thickness of the wood neck itself below the fret board. The slimmer profile of the Cordoba meant reaching certain chords easier, changing chords faster, and giving my hands the ability to put pressure when needed. The factory strings on the Cordoba appear to be superior as well although I would still upgrade them if you can afford it; the steel strings on the Lucero wore out at about 85hrs. No fret noise of any kind on the Cordoba (so long as you play the chord right) whereas on the Lucero I would get buzzing on frets 5 & 6 from both 5th and 4th strings with anything other than light strumming, even with perfect finger placement. The sound of the Cordoba is more sharp, crisp, and clear than the Lucero. My only con is that the shallower body does create a slightly more "twangy" sound than I'm used to but its a negligible difference I quickly settled with in exchange for the other qualities. You get what you pay for. This is a very solid guitar for the price. I would recommend nothing less for serious beginners.Joe T
I mostly play rock/popular music gigs but wanted a classical nylon guitar for that particular sound on home recording projects. I researched intermediate level guitars and thought I'd found what I wanted when I chanced on a review of the Cordoba C7 and decided to spend a little more and go with that. I haven't been disappointed. The build quality and tone have been worth that little extra. It would have been nice if a gig bag was included to give it some protection but it wasn't a deal breaker.David
I had a misconception regarding this brand. The only Cordoba's I noticed in stock at the store were inexpensive ukuleles. So when I began the search for a proper classical guitar, Cordoba was nowhere on my list. I ordered a used european built guitar by a reputable brand. It arrived with a bad up-bow in the neck. That's when I learned that traditional classical guitars have no truss rod. (Just my opinion, but wood isn't what it used to be, and you aren't going to get an instrument built with old growth timber under several thousand dollars.) So began my search for a "traditional classical guitar", but with a truss rod. That google search led straight to Cordoba. (All their models have truss rods.) I ordered a C7 (built in China) and a 45CO (built in Spain) to see what this brand was about. It would be a battle royale for build and sound quality. The loser is… my bank account, because I'd like to keep both. The two have a different build and likewise a different feel and sound. (see Cordoba's website for details.) Fit and finish is impeccable on both guitars. The C7 projects more, while the 45CO has perhaps a slightly more refined tone. My past experience has been that nylon string guitars are difficult to play, have poor intonation and need to be tuned more than played. None of that is the case with these two. My steel string acoustic and electrics are collecting dust while I obsess over this genre of guitar. My conclusion is… classical guitars are awesome, and Cordoba should definitely be on your test drive list. What I received are well priced instruments that are not only well made but intoxicatingly fun to play.JRH
2. Cordoba C7-Ce Acoustic-Electric Classical Guitar
Product Details:
Featuring a solid canadian cedar top and rosewood back and sides, the c7-ce adds a soft cutaway and fishman preamp to its sister model, the c7, and is a wonderful choice for beginner or intermediate guitarists who want to play on stage or record. the c7-ce's traditional fan bracing allows for maximum resonance and sustain, and offers a warm and well-balanced tone both acoustically or amplified through the fishman presys blend preamp, which includes an under-saddle pickup and an internal microphone. additional premium features such as a hand-inlaid wooden rosette, two-way adjustable truss rod, sleek high gloss pu finish, and onboard tuner makes this one of the best cutaway-electric nylon string guitars at this price. case sold separately.
Specifications:
Build | Classical |
Construction | Solid Top |
Body Top | Solid Western Red Cedar |
Top Bracing Pattern | Fan |
Soundhole Diameter | 84mm (3 1/3") |
Rosette | All Wood Traditional |
Top Purfling Inlay | 4-ply Maple and Black |
Top Binding | Rosewood |
Side Purfling Inlay | 3-ply Maple and Black |
Back and Sides Wood | Rosewood |
Back Purfling Inlay | 3-Ply Maple and Black |
Neck Material | Mahogany |
Scale Length | 648mm (25 1/2") |
Neck Shape | C Shape |
Nut Width | 50mm (2") |
Neck Thickness 1st Fret | 21mm |
Neck Thickness 9th Fret | 24mm |
Truss Rod | Dual Action |
Truss Rod Wrench | 4mm Allen Key |
Fingerboard Material | Rosewood |
Fingerboard Inlays | N / A |
Frets Total | 19 |
Finish | Gloss Polyurethane |
Bridge Material | Rosewood |
Saddle Material | Bone |
Nut Material | Bone |
Tuning Machines | Cordoba Gold and Black with Black Buttons |
Tap Plate | N / A |
Electronics | Fishman Presys Blend |
Strings | Savarez Cristal Corum High Tension 500CJ |
Included Case | Case Sold Separately |
Upper Bout Width | 292mm (11 1/2") |
Lower Bout Width | 371mm (14 5/8") |
Body Depth Upper Bout | 95mm (3 3/4") |
Body Depth Lower Bout | 100mm (4") |
Body Length | 489mm (19 1/4") |
Overall Length | 984mm (38 3/4") |
Dimensions (WxHxD) | No |
Reviews:
This was my upgrade from a Lucero 150se and what a difference it made. In terms of playability there's no comparison, the Cordoba is superior in every way. Start with the tuners/nut which are perfectly smooth allowing you to make small adjustments even on steel strings. Playing the Cordoba is simply easier and there were things I could not do well on the Lucero due to the thickness of the wood neck. Mind you I'm not talking about the nut width which is 50mm on both, I'm talking the actual thickness of the wood neck itself below the fret board. The slimmer profile of the Cordoba meant reaching certain chords easier, changing chords faster, and giving my hands the ability to put pressure when needed. The factory strings on the Cordoba appear to be superior as well although I would still upgrade them if you can afford it; the steel strings on the Lucero wore out at about 85hrs. No fret noise of any kind on the Cordoba (so long as you play the chord right) whereas on the Lucero I would get buzzing on frets 5 & 6 from both 5th and 4th strings with anything other than light strumming, even with perfect finger placement. The sound of the Cordoba is more sharp, crisp, and clear than the Lucero. My only con is that the shallower body does create a slightly more "twangy" sound than I'm used to but its a negligible difference I quickly settled with in exchange for the other qualities. You get what you pay for. This is a very solid guitar for the price. I would recommend nothing less for serious beginners.Joe T
I mostly play rock/popular music gigs but wanted a classical nylon guitar for that particular sound on home recording projects. I researched intermediate level guitars and thought I'd found what I wanted when I chanced on a review of the Cordoba C7 and decided to spend a little more and go with that. I haven't been disappointed. The build quality and tone have been worth that little extra. It would have been nice if a gig bag was included to give it some protection but it wasn't a deal breaker.David
I had a misconception regarding this brand. The only Cordoba's I noticed in stock at the store were inexpensive ukuleles. So when I began the search for a proper classical guitar, Cordoba was nowhere on my list. I ordered a used european built guitar by a reputable brand. It arrived with a bad up-bow in the neck. That's when I learned that traditional classical guitars have no truss rod. (Just my opinion, but wood isn't what it used to be, and you aren't going to get an instrument built with old growth timber under several thousand dollars.) So began my search for a "traditional classical guitar", but with a truss rod. That google search led straight to Cordoba. (All their models have truss rods.) I ordered a C7 (built in China) and a 45CO (built in Spain) to see what this brand was about. It would be a battle royale for build and sound quality. The loser is… my bank account, because I'd like to keep both. The two have a different build and likewise a different feel and sound. (see Cordoba's website for details.) Fit and finish is impeccable on both guitars. The C7 projects more, while the 45CO has perhaps a slightly more refined tone. My past experience has been that nylon string guitars are difficult to play, have poor intonation and need to be tuned more than played. None of that is the case with these two. My steel string acoustic and electrics are collecting dust while I obsess over this genre of guitar. My conclusion is… classical guitars are awesome, and Cordoba should definitely be on your test drive list. What I received are well priced instruments that are not only well made but intoxicatingly fun to play.JRH
3. Cordoba C9 Sp/mh Acoustic Nylon String Classical Guitar
Product Details:
One of the original models in cordoba's luthier series, the cordoba c9 is built with solid european spruce top with solid mahogany back and sides. the c9 features a fan bracing pattern, which gives the center of the soundboard more surface area to vibrate and respond to the tension of the strings. a more responsive soundboard makes the guitar louder, and provides better tone. like every guitar in the luthier series, the c9 is built with spanish heel construction, where the top of the guitar is attached to the neck, the sides are added next, and the guitar' body is sealed by the installation of the back. this construction feature allows the entire instrument to vibrate as one unified piece. the c9 has the neck shape and flat fingerboard characteristic of traditional classical guitars, and includes the added benefit of a two-way truss rod built into the neck. cordoba recently expanded upon the c9, offering two new options that appeal to guitarists from all backgrounds: the c9 parlor, which has a 7/8 size body shape and 50mm nut width, and the c9 crossover, which is a full size guitar with a slim neck profile, radiused fingerboard, and 48mm nut width. aesthetic touches like the mother-of-pearl weave rosette inspired by a 1920's domingo esteso guitar add a touch of vintage elegance to this best-seller. other premium features include an rosewood fingerboard, rosewood bridge, high gloss finish, and savarez cristal corum strings. the c9 includes cordoba's lightweight polyfoam case.
Specifications:
Body Top | Solid European Spruce |
Upper Bout Width | 292mm (11 1/2") |
Lower Bout Width | 371mm (14 5/8") |
Body Depth Upper Bout | 95mm (3 3/4") |
Body Depth Lower Bout | 100mm (4") |
Body Length | 489mm (19 1/4") |
Overall Length | 984mm (38 3/4") |
Soundhole Diameter | 84mm (3 1/3") |
Top Bracing Pattern | Fan |
Back and Sides Wood | Solid African Mahogany |
Top Binding | Rosewood |
Rosette | Pearloid Esteso Weave Pattern |
Top Purfling Inlay | Padauk, Maple and Black |
Side Purfling Inlay | Maple and Black |
Back Purfling Inlay | Maple and Black |
Bridge Material | Ebony |
Saddle Material | Bone |
Scale Length | 650mm (25 1/2") |
Neck Material | Mahogany |
Fingerboard Material | Ebony |
Nut Width | 52mm (2") |
Nut Material | Bone |
Truss Rod | Dual Action |
Truss Rod Wrench | 4mm Allen Key |
Neck Thickness 1st Fret | 21mm |
Neck Thickness 9th Fret | 24mm |
Frets Total | 19 |
Tuning Machines | Cordoba Premium Gold with Black Buttons |
Neck Shape | C Shape |
Finish | Gloss Polyurethane |
Tap Plate | No |
Strings | Savarez Cristal Corum High Tension 500CJ |
Included Case | Cordoba Polyfoam Case |
Reviews:
I use my C10sp mainly to study and play classical music at home. I own another classical which I use for gigs. I don't want my C10SP to get bumped up and scratched. The sound is well balanced with excellent bass and crisp trebles. The intonation is perfect across the fretboard. The action was standard so I lowered a bit to my taste. The wood is beautiful, the spruce top has a nice color with bear claw marks that makes it unique. The rosewood back and sides has a nice color with a beautiful rose/brownish grain. The tuners are beautiful as well and functional as it keeps the guitar tuned very well all the time. The C10SP is an excellent classical guitar at an incredible price.Guitarmonsterz
I went to a guitar store specializing in classical guitars, and tried out a whole lot. For the price, I could not find a better-sounding guitar (if you are after the flamenco sound). Other options: While I originally intended to buy a Cordoba with cutaway and electronics, I found that those guitars (despite from being 50% more expensive) lacked in the quality of sound. A pickup from something like Kremona would cost a lot less. Sound: This guitar has a very clear sound – something you want regardless of the type of guitar. The notes do not sound muffled or dead. The flamenco construction adds to this by producing a shorter sustain, and a very bright tone. At times, it sounds similar to bells ringing. Additionally, there is a little bit of fret buzz on the bass strings when played hard – nowhere near the amount of buzz a flamenco requires, but the bridge had a lot of room to be sanded down if that's what you are after. This should go without mention, but this guitar is made for a flamenco/percussive style of playing. It is entirely possible to play classical music on it, but that music will sound better on the classical equivalent (Cordoba C7). For percussive playing, tapping various regions of the top produces a range of sounds from dull to sharp and bring – lots of potential there. Construction: I found that this guitar is built very well. It would be nice to see book-matched top and bottom, but this is after all an entry level flamenco guitar. Value: I think this is a great guitar for the price. Nothing sounds better (flamenco-wise) in guitars up to two or three times the price. Not to mention the gig bag, and truss rod – something a lot of guitars do not come with.VladimirK
I just purchased my Cordoba C9 Parlor, and I'm so excited. Since I previously owned a Taylor GS Mini with steel strings, I was looking for a smaller size guitar with nylon strings. I tried several smaller-feel, nylon guitars (Cordoba Cadete 3/4 Size, Cordoba C5 CET Thinner Body and F7 Paco Flamenco Guitar). The first guitar I tried, the Cordoba Cadete, felt too small. The Cadete is smaller than my Taylor GS Mini. The second guitar, the Cordoba C5 CET, had a slimmer body and a thinner neck. Both of these characteristics made the C5 CET easier to play. However, I felt that its sound was slightly compromised due to its slimmer body. The third guitar I tried, the F7 Paco, was very light and comfortable, but I wasn't akin to playing flamenco, so instead I went with the Cordoba C9 Parlor. I could not be happier with my purchase. Though the D string broke within 3-days of owning my new C9 Parlor, Sam Ash's staff replaced the string same day. Additionally, the C9 Parlor comes with Cordoba's polyfoam case. Please note that this polyfoam case is not a Humicase. Although the case is beautiful, it is heavy and the straps are a flimsy. I wish Cordoba would make a smaller, lighter polyfoam case with more comfortable and durable straps.Dulci
4. Cordoba Requinto 580 1/2 Size Acoustic Nylon String Classical Guitar
Product Details:
The cordoba iberia requinto 580 1/2 size classical acoustic guitar is handmade with a solid cedar top and mahogany back and sides. the hand-inlaid all-natural wood rosette and indian rosewood detailing distinguishes the iberia requinto 580 from other guitars in this price range. it is designed with the traditional 5-fan torres style bracing to produce a rich spanish sound in spite of its diminutive string length. ideal for children learning how to play nylon string guitars. the requinto comes strung with high tension savarez guitar strings, which are meant to be used in standard e tuning. because the scale length of this guitar is slightly shorter than a full size guitar, the tension will be slightly lower than a full sized guitar as a result, but will still play very well in standard tuning. the requinto can be tuned up as high as a minor third up to g standard tuning, which will increase the tension, but any tunings higher than this are not recommended, as the added stress of the higher string tension of these tunings will compromise the long term health of the instrument.
Specifications:
Body Top | Solid Western Red Cedar |
Upper Bout Width | 254mm (10") |
Lower Bout Width | 337mm (13 1/4") |
Body Depth Upper Bout | 83mm (3 1/4") |
Body Depth Lower Bout | 89mm (3 1/2") |
Body Length | 425mm (16 3/4") |
Overall Length | 895mm (35 1/4") |
Soundhole Diameter | 84mm (3 1/3") |
Top Bracing Pattern | Fan |
Back and Sides Wood | Mahogany |
Top Binding | Composite |
Rosette | All Wood Traditional |
Saddle Material | Bone |
Scale Length | 580mm (22 7/8") |
Neck Material | Mahogany |
Nut Width | 48mm (1 7/8") |
Nut Material | Bone |
Truss Rod | Dual Action |
Truss Rod Wrench | 4mm Allen Key |
Neck Thickness 1st Fret | 21mm |
Neck Thickness 9th Fret | 24mm |
Frets Total | 19 |
Tuning Machines | Cordoba Gold with Pearl Buttons |
Neck Shape | C Shape |
Finish | Gloss Polyurethane |
Tap Plate | No |
Reviews:
This was my upgrade from a Lucero 150se and what a difference it made. In terms of playability there's no comparison, the Cordoba is superior in every way. Start with the tuners/nut which are perfectly smooth allowing you to make small adjustments even on steel strings. Playing the Cordoba is simply easier and there were things I could not do well on the Lucero due to the thickness of the wood neck. Mind you I'm not talking about the nut width which is 50mm on both, I'm talking the actual thickness of the wood neck itself below the fret board. The slimmer profile of the Cordoba meant reaching certain chords easier, changing chords faster, and giving my hands the ability to put pressure when needed. The factory strings on the Cordoba appear to be superior as well although I would still upgrade them if you can afford it; the steel strings on the Lucero wore out at about 85hrs. No fret noise of any kind on the Cordoba (so long as you play the chord right) whereas on the Lucero I would get buzzing on frets 5 & 6 from both 5th and 4th strings with anything other than light strumming, even with perfect finger placement. The sound of the Cordoba is more sharp, crisp, and clear than the Lucero. My only con is that the shallower body does create a slightly more "twangy" sound than I'm used to but its a negligible difference I quickly settled with in exchange for the other qualities. You get what you pay for. This is a very solid guitar for the price. I would recommend nothing less for serious beginners.Joe T
I mostly play rock/popular music gigs but wanted a classical nylon guitar for that particular sound on home recording projects. I researched intermediate level guitars and thought I'd found what I wanted when I chanced on a review of the Cordoba C7 and decided to spend a little more and go with that. I haven't been disappointed. The build quality and tone have been worth that little extra. It would have been nice if a gig bag was included to give it some protection but it wasn't a deal breaker.David
I had a misconception regarding this brand. The only Cordoba's I noticed in stock at the store were inexpensive ukuleles. So when I began the search for a proper classical guitar, Cordoba was nowhere on my list. I ordered a used european built guitar by a reputable brand. It arrived with a bad up-bow in the neck. That's when I learned that traditional classical guitars have no truss rod. (Just my opinion, but wood isn't what it used to be, and you aren't going to get an instrument built with old growth timber under several thousand dollars.) So began my search for a "traditional classical guitar", but with a truss rod. That google search led straight to Cordoba. (All their models have truss rods.) I ordered a C7 (built in China) and a 45CO (built in Spain) to see what this brand was about. It would be a battle royale for build and sound quality. The loser is… my bank account, because I'd like to keep both. The two have a different build and likewise a different feel and sound. (see Cordoba's website for details.) Fit and finish is impeccable on both guitars. The C7 projects more, while the 45CO has perhaps a slightly more refined tone. My past experience has been that nylon string guitars are difficult to play, have poor intonation and need to be tuned more than played. None of that is the case with these two. My steel string acoustic and electrics are collecting dust while I obsess over this genre of guitar. My conclusion is… classical guitars are awesome, and Cordoba should definitely be on your test drive list. What I received are well priced instruments that are not only well made but intoxicatingly fun to play.JRH
5. Cordoba C7 Cd Classical Nylon Acoustic Guitar In Natural
Product Details:
A traditional solid-topped classical pairing western red cedar and rosewood. the c7 is a wonderful choice for beginner or intermediate guitarists. a step up from our c5, the c7 offers rosewood back and sides with the choice of a solid cedar top to achieve a warm classic nylon string sound, or a solid european spruce top for a brighter tone. the c7's traditional fan bracing allows for maximum resonance and sustain and premium features such as a hand-inlaid wooden rosette, two-way adjustable truss rod, and a sleek high gloss pu finish. available at ken stanton music. *grain pattern may vary
Specifications:
Neck Joint | Dovetail |
Fret Dimensions | 2.0mm (W) x 1.1mm (H) |
Back Binding | Rosewood |
Reviews:
This was my upgrade from a Lucero 150se and what a difference it made. In terms of playability there's no comparison, the Cordoba is superior in every way. Start with the tuners/nut which are perfectly smooth allowing you to make small adjustments even on steel strings. Playing the Cordoba is simply easier and there were things I could not do well on the Lucero due to the thickness of the wood neck. Mind you I'm not talking about the nut width which is 50mm on both, I'm talking the actual thickness of the wood neck itself below the fret board. The slimmer profile of the Cordoba meant reaching certain chords easier, changing chords faster, and giving my hands the ability to put pressure when needed. The factory strings on the Cordoba appear to be superior as well although I would still upgrade them if you can afford it; the steel strings on the Lucero wore out at about 85hrs. No fret noise of any kind on the Cordoba (so long as you play the chord right) whereas on the Lucero I would get buzzing on frets 5 & 6 from both 5th and 4th strings with anything other than light strumming, even with perfect finger placement. The sound of the Cordoba is more sharp, crisp, and clear than the Lucero. My only con is that the shallower body does create a slightly more "twangy" sound than I'm used to but its a negligible difference I quickly settled with in exchange for the other qualities. You get what you pay for. This is a very solid guitar for the price. I would recommend nothing less for serious beginners.Joe T
I mostly play rock/popular music gigs but wanted a classical nylon guitar for that particular sound on home recording projects. I researched intermediate level guitars and thought I'd found what I wanted when I chanced on a review of the Cordoba C7 and decided to spend a little more and go with that. I haven't been disappointed. The build quality and tone have been worth that little extra. It would have been nice if a gig bag was included to give it some protection but it wasn't a deal breaker.David
I had a misconception regarding this brand. The only Cordoba's I noticed in stock at the store were inexpensive ukuleles. So when I began the search for a proper classical guitar, Cordoba was nowhere on my list. I ordered a used european built guitar by a reputable brand. It arrived with a bad up-bow in the neck. That's when I learned that traditional classical guitars have no truss rod. (Just my opinion, but wood isn't what it used to be, and you aren't going to get an instrument built with old growth timber under several thousand dollars.) So began my search for a "traditional classical guitar", but with a truss rod. That google search led straight to Cordoba. (All their models have truss rods.) I ordered a C7 (built in China) and a 45CO (built in Spain) to see what this brand was about. It would be a battle royale for build and sound quality. The loser is… my bank account, because I'd like to keep both. The two have a different build and likewise a different feel and sound. (see Cordoba's website for details.) Fit and finish is impeccable on both guitars. The C7 projects more, while the 45CO has perhaps a slightly more refined tone. My past experience has been that nylon string guitars are difficult to play, have poor intonation and need to be tuned more than played. None of that is the case with these two. My steel string acoustic and electrics are collecting dust while I obsess over this genre of guitar. My conclusion is… classical guitars are awesome, and Cordoba should definitely be on your test drive list. What I received are well priced instruments that are not only well made but intoxicatingly fun to play.JRH
6. Cordoba Fusion Orchestra Ce Cd Acoustic Electric Nylon String Classical Guitar
Product Details:
The cordoba fusion orchestra ce classical acoustic electric guitar blends steel string playability with the warm sound of a nylon-string guitar. this model features both the bracing and heel of a traditional spanish guitar in addition to a thinner neck and radiused fretboard, making it similar to steel string or electrics. the fusion orchestra ce features an added cutaway to provide easy access to the upper frets. the solid mahogany neck paired with the thinner 48 millimeters, 1 7/8 inches nut width, makes this guitar comfortable for any player to hold. the most notable characteristics of the orchestra ce are the dark and punchy bass tones, strong, round trebles and balanced mids. the fishman presys blend includes a 4band eq and convenient onboard tuner. this guitar comes with a deluxe padded cordoba gig bag.
Specifications:
Back and Sides | Indian Rosewood |
Binding/Bridge | Mahogany binding/Indian rosewood bridge |
Purfling/Inlay | 3 ply maple and ebony top, back, and side purfling |
Rosette | All natural inlaid wood rings |
Finish | High gloss PU finish |
Neck/Fingerboard | Mahogany neck/Ebony radiused fingerboard |
Scale Length | 25.6 inches, 650 millimeters |
Nut Width | 1 7/8 inches, 48 millimeters |
Fret Marker Inlays | Mother of Pearl at 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, 15, 17 |
Nut/Saddle | Bone |
Number of Frets | 12 to body, 19 total |
Bracing/Build | Spanish fan bracing, cutaway electric |
Turning Machines | Cordoba Silver Tuning Machines |
Strings | Savarez Corum Alliance High Tension, 500AJ |
Reviews:
It's hard to find a high quality affordable nylon guitar with a 48mm neck. I have both the Cordoba Orchestra CE Crossover and the Kremona Verea. I like the Cordoba CE a lot more. I'm surprised that there aren't more favorable reviews for the Cordoba compared to the Verea. I admit that I took the Cordoba to a luthier and had the action lowered. They told me high action was normal for nylon, but I convinced them to lower it, now it's really nice; low action and no buzz. Maybe if I did that to the Verea I would like it more, but it seems like the neck on the Cordoba is better. The Verea is fatter with a flat finger board, while the the Cordoba is thiner and maybe a slightly rounder finger board. The Verea looks a little better and the tuning pegs are nicer, but all that stuff is somewhat superficial. The bottom line is that I find myself playing the Cordoba all the time and when I pick up the Verea it just doesn't do it. To me, the Cordoba design and craftsmanship is superior but maybe that's why it cost a little more. That's ok because at the end of the day you want a guitar that you're going to keep forever, and not sell back to Guitar Center.CY
Overall: Before I say anything about the guitar I need to say something special about zZounds. 12 equal payments for this fabulous instrument, are you kidding me? As long as zZounds sells what I need I will always buy from zZounds. The guitar is great. The Orchestra model is worth the extra $. I also bought the Gator case which is vault like protection. What sold me was the feel of the neck was made for steel string and electric guitar players. If you've ever wondered why traditional classical guitar necks feel like a baseball bat there's a reason. Classical guitars from the past (1500, 1600, etc) had NO TRUST ROD so the neck had to be really big. Why haven't they changed that in the modern era? Tradition is a hard habit to change so thank God Cordoba used some common sense.
Having always been a steel string/electric player I wanted to add a classical/nylon string to the collection and after a lot of trials and research I ended up with one of these. Appearance and feel wise, it could easily stand up against guitars twice the price in my opinion and sound wise I'd have to say the same. It's got a wonderful rich warm sound but the highs just cut through beautifully and that's before plugging it, as it truly comes to life then. The pickups sound ace and the blended mic/pick up makes it sound absolutely mind blowing giving an airy clear sound, but with lows that resonate. Definitely recommend checking one of these out, especially if moving from steel strung.T M.
7. Cordoba C10 Cd Classical Guitar Natural
Product Details:
Along with the sweet, warm tone provided by its all-solid body, the handmade c10 cd features the vintage elegance of a hand-inlaid mother-of-pearl rosette inspired by a 1920s domingo esteso design. this model has a canadian cedar top with indian rosewood back and sides. other notable features of the c10 include its black and gold tuning machines and adjustable truss rod. comes with a hardshell cordoba humidified archtop case.
Specifications:
Binding/Bridge | Indian Rosewood Binding / Indian Rosewood Bridge |
Purfling/Inlay | Maple & Ebony top, back, sides purfling inlay |
Rosette | Mother of Pearl & Ebony "Esteso" weave rosette |
Finish | High Gloss PU Natural Finish |
Neck/Fingerboard | African Mahogany neck / Ebony fingerboard |
Nut/Saddle | Bone |
Fingerboard Inlays | Mother of Pearl on side of fret board (5,7) |
Number of Frets | 12 to body, 19 total |
Bracing/Build | Spanish Classic, X fan bracing pattern |
Tuning Machines | Der Jung Gold Floral Tuners with wood buttons |
Strings | Savarez Cristal Corum |
Reviews:
I use my C10sp mainly to study and play classical music at home. I own another classical which I use for gigs. I don't want my C10SP to get bumped up and scratched. The sound is well balanced with excellent bass and crisp trebles. The intonation is perfect across the fretboard. The action was standard so I lowered a bit to my taste. The wood is beautiful, the spruce top has a nice color with bear claw marks that makes it unique. The rosewood back and sides has a nice color with a beautiful rose/brownish grain. The tuners are beautiful as well and functional as it keeps the guitar tuned very well all the time. The C10SP is an excellent classical guitar at an incredible price.Guitarmonsterz
I went to a guitar store specializing in classical guitars, and tried out a whole lot. For the price, I could not find a better-sounding guitar (if you are after the flamenco sound). Other options: While I originally intended to buy a Cordoba with cutaway and electronics, I found that those guitars (despite from being 50% more expensive) lacked in the quality of sound. A pickup from something like Kremona would cost a lot less. Sound: This guitar has a very clear sound – something you want regardless of the type of guitar. The notes do not sound muffled or dead. The flamenco construction adds to this by producing a shorter sustain, and a very bright tone. At times, it sounds similar to bells ringing. Additionally, there is a little bit of fret buzz on the bass strings when played hard – nowhere near the amount of buzz a flamenco requires, but the bridge had a lot of room to be sanded down if that's what you are after. This should go without mention, but this guitar is made for a flamenco/percussive style of playing. It is entirely possible to play classical music on it, but that music will sound better on the classical equivalent (Cordoba C7). For percussive playing, tapping various regions of the top produces a range of sounds from dull to sharp and bring – lots of potential there. Construction: I found that this guitar is built very well. It would be nice to see book-matched top and bottom, but this is after all an entry level flamenco guitar. Value: I think this is a great guitar for the price. Nothing sounds better (flamenco-wise) in guitars up to two or three times the price. Not to mention the gig bag, and truss rod – something a lot of guitars do not come with.VladimirK
I just purchased my Cordoba C9 Parlor, and I'm so excited. Since I previously owned a Taylor GS Mini with steel strings, I was looking for a smaller size guitar with nylon strings. I tried several smaller-feel, nylon guitars (Cordoba Cadete 3/4 Size, Cordoba C5 CET Thinner Body and F7 Paco Flamenco Guitar). The first guitar I tried, the Cordoba Cadete, felt too small. The Cadete is smaller than my Taylor GS Mini. The second guitar, the Cordoba C5 CET, had a slimmer body and a thinner neck. Both of these characteristics made the C5 CET easier to play. However, I felt that its sound was slightly compromised due to its slimmer body. The third guitar I tried, the F7 Paco, was very light and comfortable, but I wasn't akin to playing flamenco, so instead I went with the Cordoba C9 Parlor. I could not be happier with my purchase. Though the D string broke within 3-days of owning my new C9 Parlor, Sam Ash's staff replaced the string same day. Additionally, the C9 Parlor comes with Cordoba's polyfoam case. Please note that this polyfoam case is not a Humicase. Although the case is beautiful, it is heavy and the straps are a flimsy. I wish Cordoba would make a smaller, lighter polyfoam case with more comfortable and durable straps.Dulci
8. Cordoba Fusion 14 Maple Acoustic Electric Nylon String Classical Guitar
Product Details:
The maple belongs to cordoba's fusion series, a line of high-quality crossover or hybrid-style nylon string guitars designed to play and feel like steel string acoustics. most notably, the necks are carved thinner than traditional spanish-style "classical" guitars and have a nut width of 48 mm (1-7/8 in.). with the option of 12 or 14 frets to the body on most models, these slimmer dimensions, combined with a radiused fingerboard, give the fusion series the feel and playability that most steel string and electric guitar players are used to. tonally, the fusion series models have all the warmth, body, and resonance that traditional "classical" nylon string guitars are known for, and are built using traditional spanish guitar methods like domed soundboards and fan bracing patterns in the design. additional features include cutaway and non-cutaway body styles, fishman or b-band pickups, two-way adjustable truss rods, and savarez corum alliance strings that offer the higher tension feel that most crossover players are looking for. cordoba's fusion series was first to effectively merge the feel of a steel string with the tone of a "classical" guitar, and, with a variety of wood options and finishes, is the most comprehensive line of crossover-style nylon string hybrids on the market. the maple is built with a solid european spruce top and flamed maple back and sides. the neck has 14 frets to the body and has an ebony fingerboard. the bridge, binding and headstock overlay are made of rosewood, and the rosette is hand inlaid using maple and rosewood rings. the maple is equipped with the fishman presys blend pickup, and includes a deluxe cordoba gig bag.
Specifications:
Reviews:
It's hard to find a high quality affordable nylon guitar with a 48mm neck. I have both the Cordoba Orchestra CE Crossover and the Kremona Verea. I like the Cordoba CE a lot more. I'm surprised that there aren't more favorable reviews for the Cordoba compared to the Verea. I admit that I took the Cordoba to a luthier and had the action lowered. They told me high action was normal for nylon, but I convinced them to lower it, now it's really nice; low action and no buzz. Maybe if I did that to the Verea I would like it more, but it seems like the neck on the Cordoba is better. The Verea is fatter with a flat finger board, while the the Cordoba is thiner and maybe a slightly rounder finger board. The Verea looks a little better and the tuning pegs are nicer, but all that stuff is somewhat superficial. The bottom line is that I find myself playing the Cordoba all the time and when I pick up the Verea it just doesn't do it. To me, the Cordoba design and craftsmanship is superior but maybe that's why it cost a little more. That's ok because at the end of the day you want a guitar that you're going to keep forever, and not sell back to Guitar Center.CY
Overall: Before I say anything about the guitar I need to say something special about zZounds. 12 equal payments for this fabulous instrument, are you kidding me? As long as zZounds sells what I need I will always buy from zZounds. The guitar is great. The Orchestra model is worth the extra $. I also bought the Gator case which is vault like protection. What sold me was the feel of the neck was made for steel string and electric guitar players. If you've ever wondered why traditional classical guitar necks feel like a baseball bat there's a reason. Classical guitars from the past (1500, 1600, etc) had NO TRUST ROD so the neck had to be really big. Why haven't they changed that in the modern era? Tradition is a hard habit to change so thank God Cordoba used some common sense.
Having always been a steel string/electric player I wanted to add a classical/nylon string to the collection and after a lot of trials and research I ended up with one of these. Appearance and feel wise, it could easily stand up against guitars twice the price in my opinion and sound wise I'd have to say the same. It's got a wonderful rich warm sound but the highs just cut through beautifully and that's before plugging it, as it truly comes to life then. The pickups sound ace and the blended mic/pick up makes it sound absolutely mind blowing giving an airy clear sound, but with lows that resonate. Definitely recommend checking one of these out, especially if moving from steel strung.T M.
9. Cordoba Fusion 12 Natural Spruce Classical Electric Guitar Top
Product Details:
The fusion 12 natural spruce classical electric guitar belongs to cordoba's fusion series, a line of high quality crossover or hybrid style nylon string guitars designed to play and feel like steel-string acoustics. most notably, the necks are carved thinner than traditional spanish-style "classical" guitars and have a nut width of 48 mm (1-7/8 in.). with 12 frets to the body, these slimmer dimensions combined with a radiused fingerboard give the fusion 12 series the feel and playability that most steel string and electric guitar players are used to. tonally, the fusion series models have all the warmth, body, and resonance that traditional "classical" nylon string guitars are known for, and are built using traditional spanish guitar methods like domed soundboards and fan bracing patterns. additional features include cutaway and non-cutaway body styles, fishman or bband pickups, two-way adjustable truss rods, and savarez corum alliance strings that offer the higher tension feel that most crossover players are looking for. cordoba's fusion series was first to effectively merge the feel of a steel string with the tone of a “classical” guitar, and with a variety of wood options and finishes is the most comprehensive line of crossover style nylon string hybrids on the market. the 12 natural is built with a solid european spruce top paired with mahogany back and sides. the rosette is hand inlaid using maple and rosewood rings, and it features 3-ply maple and ebony top purfling for a sleek aesthetic. it also comes equipped with the fishman presys pickup. the fingerboard and bridge are rosewood, neck has 12 frets to the body, and comes with a deluxe cordoba gig bag.
Specifications:
Top Wood | Solid European Spruce |
Style | Crossover |
Construction | Solid Top |
Electronics | Fishman Presys |
Reviews:
It's hard to find a high quality affordable nylon guitar with a 48mm neck. I have both the Cordoba Orchestra CE Crossover and the Kremona Verea. I like the Cordoba CE a lot more. I'm surprised that there aren't more favorable reviews for the Cordoba compared to the Verea. I admit that I took the Cordoba to a luthier and had the action lowered. They told me high action was normal for nylon, but I convinced them to lower it, now it's really nice; low action and no buzz. Maybe if I did that to the Verea I would like it more, but it seems like the neck on the Cordoba is better. The Verea is fatter with a flat finger board, while the the Cordoba is thiner and maybe a slightly rounder finger board. The Verea looks a little better and the tuning pegs are nicer, but all that stuff is somewhat superficial. The bottom line is that I find myself playing the Cordoba all the time and when I pick up the Verea it just doesn't do it. To me, the Cordoba design and craftsmanship is superior but maybe that's why it cost a little more. That's ok because at the end of the day you want a guitar that you're going to keep forever, and not sell back to Guitar Center.CY
Overall: Before I say anything about the guitar I need to say something special about zZounds. 12 equal payments for this fabulous instrument, are you kidding me? As long as zZounds sells what I need I will always buy from zZounds. The guitar is great. The Orchestra model is worth the extra $. I also bought the Gator case which is vault like protection. What sold me was the feel of the neck was made for steel string and electric guitar players. If you've ever wondered why traditional classical guitar necks feel like a baseball bat there's a reason. Classical guitars from the past (1500, 1600, etc) had NO TRUST ROD so the neck had to be really big. Why haven't they changed that in the modern era? Tradition is a hard habit to change so thank God Cordoba used some common sense.
Having always been a steel string/electric player I wanted to add a classical/nylon string to the collection and after a lot of trials and research I ended up with one of these. Appearance and feel wise, it could easily stand up against guitars twice the price in my opinion and sound wise I'd have to say the same. It's got a wonderful rich warm sound but the highs just cut through beautifully and that's before plugging it, as it truly comes to life then. The pickups sound ace and the blended mic/pick up makes it sound absolutely mind blowing giving an airy clear sound, but with lows that resonate. Definitely recommend checking one of these out, especially if moving from steel strung.T M.
10. Cordoba C9 Parlor Nylon String Acoustic Guitar Natural
Product Details:
Acoustic guitars – enjoy rich tone and exquisite craftsmanship with the cordoba c9 parlor! the 7/8-sized cordoba c9 parlor is an excellent value in a nylon-string acoustic guitar. the handmade c9 parlor sports mahogany back and sides with a canadian cedar top, for rich tones with a lively presence. and the solid mahogany neck provides excellent sustain and detail. no matter your experience level, you'll love the attention to detail and excellent playability of the c9 parlor. and with the gloss polyurethane finish, indian rosewood binding, and a stylish rosette, the c9 parlor looks as good as it plays. the cordoba c9 parlor even comes with a humidified hard case! cordoba c9 parlor nylon-string acoustic guitar at a glance: traditional design. quality tonewoods. great look, great playability. traditional design. the cordoba c9 parlor doesn't skimp on construction. the handmade c9 parlor features a slightly smaller, 7/8-sized traditional classical guitar design, including the solid canadian cedar top (choice top wood for classical guitars) and spanish-style fan bracing. fan bracing is preferred for classical guitars over lattice bracing, as it allows the guitar's top to vibrate more freely while still providing evenly balanced tone. quality tonewoods – the cordoba c9 parlor's solid mahogany back and sides set a powerful tonal foundation for the solid cedar top, giving you the right balance of warmth and brightness. the neck is solid mahogany, for maximum transfer of string energy to the cedar top. a rosewood fingerboard and indian rosewood bridge complete the elegant look. great look, great playability – the cordoba c9 parlor is gorgeous to simply look at, from the detailed mother-of-pearl "esteso" rosette inlay and indian rosewood binding to the gold tuners with ebony buttons. and you'll love how the gloss finish shows off the indian rosewood body and canadian cedar top. but looks aren't everything, the c9 parlor was designed with playability in mind, and the great look is just the icing on the classical cake. cordoba c9 parlor nylon-string acoustic guitar features: handmade 7/8-sized classical guitar. traditional spanish fan bracing provides a balanced, lively sound. mahogany back and sides for full-bodied frequency response. canadian cedar top for excellent definition and projection. polyfoam case included. get premium tonewoods at a great price with the cordoba c9 parlor nylon-string classical guitar.
Reviews:
I use my C10sp mainly to study and play classical music at home. I own another classical which I use for gigs. I don't want my C10SP to get bumped up and scratched. The sound is well balanced with excellent bass and crisp trebles. The intonation is perfect across the fretboard. The action was standard so I lowered a bit to my taste. The wood is beautiful, the spruce top has a nice color with bear claw marks that makes it unique. The rosewood back and sides has a nice color with a beautiful rose/brownish grain. The tuners are beautiful as well and functional as it keeps the guitar tuned very well all the time. The C10SP is an excellent classical guitar at an incredible price.Guitarmonsterz
I went to a guitar store specializing in classical guitars, and tried out a whole lot. For the price, I could not find a better-sounding guitar (if you are after the flamenco sound). Other options: While I originally intended to buy a Cordoba with cutaway and electronics, I found that those guitars (despite from being 50% more expensive) lacked in the quality of sound. A pickup from something like Kremona would cost a lot less. Sound: This guitar has a very clear sound – something you want regardless of the type of guitar. The notes do not sound muffled or dead. The flamenco construction adds to this by producing a shorter sustain, and a very bright tone. At times, it sounds similar to bells ringing. Additionally, there is a little bit of fret buzz on the bass strings when played hard – nowhere near the amount of buzz a flamenco requires, but the bridge had a lot of room to be sanded down if that's what you are after. This should go without mention, but this guitar is made for a flamenco/percussive style of playing. It is entirely possible to play classical music on it, but that music will sound better on the classical equivalent (Cordoba C7). For percussive playing, tapping various regions of the top produces a range of sounds from dull to sharp and bring – lots of potential there. Construction: I found that this guitar is built very well. It would be nice to see book-matched top and bottom, but this is after all an entry level flamenco guitar. Value: I think this is a great guitar for the price. Nothing sounds better (flamenco-wise) in guitars up to two or three times the price. Not to mention the gig bag, and truss rod – something a lot of guitars do not come with.VladimirK
I just purchased my Cordoba C9 Parlor, and I'm so excited. Since I previously owned a Taylor GS Mini with steel strings, I was looking for a smaller size guitar with nylon strings. I tried several smaller-feel, nylon guitars (Cordoba Cadete 3/4 Size, Cordoba C5 CET Thinner Body and F7 Paco Flamenco Guitar). The first guitar I tried, the Cordoba Cadete, felt too small. The Cadete is smaller than my Taylor GS Mini. The second guitar, the Cordoba C5 CET, had a slimmer body and a thinner neck. Both of these characteristics made the C5 CET easier to play. However, I felt that its sound was slightly compromised due to its slimmer body. The third guitar I tried, the F7 Paco, was very light and comfortable, but I wasn't akin to playing flamenco, so instead I went with the Cordoba C9 Parlor. I could not be happier with my purchase. Though the D string broke within 3-days of owning my new C9 Parlor, Sam Ash's staff replaced the string same day. Additionally, the C9 Parlor comes with Cordoba's polyfoam case. Please note that this polyfoam case is not a Humicase. Although the case is beautiful, it is heavy and the straps are a flimsy. I wish Cordoba would make a smaller, lighter polyfoam case with more comfortable and durable straps.Dulci
11. Cordoba Cordoba F7 Flamenco Iberia Top Nylon String Guitar Solid
Product Details:
The f7 is our entry-level flamenco model featuring the traditional combination of a solid european spruce top paired with cypress back and sides. it's a perfect fit for both beginner and intermediate flamenco players. incredibly lightweight, the f7 is built in the spanish tradition with a slightly thinner body depth than a classical guitar. additionally, its flat neck angle gives this guitar low action, and the bright, snappy tone characteristic of flamenco guitars. a clear flamenco-style tap plate comes installed on the top for an added layer of protection and like all crdoba guitars, the f7 includes a two-way truss rod inside the neck for action adjustment and long term stability.
Specifications:
Build | Flamenco |
Construction | Solid Top |
Body Top | Solid European Spruce |
Top Bracing Pattern | Fan |
Soundhole Diameter | 84mm (3 1/3") |
Rosette | All Wood Traditional |
Top Purfling Inlay | 4-ply Maple and Black |
Top Binding | Pau Ferro |
Side Purfling Inlay | N / A |
Back and Sides Wood | Cypress |
Back Purfling Inlay | N / A |
Neck Material | Mahogany |
Scale Length | 648mm (25 1/2") |
Neck Shape | C Shape |
Nut Width | 52mm (2") |
Neck Thickness 1st Fret | 21mm |
Neck Thickness 9th Fret | 24mm |
Truss Rod | Dual Action |
Truss Rod Wrench | 4mm Allen Key |
Fingerboard Material | Pau Ferro |
Fingerboard Inlays | N / A |
Frets Total | 19 |
Finish | Gloss Polyurethane |
Bridge Material | Pau Ferro |
Saddle Material | Bone |
Nut Material | Bone |
Tuning Machines | Cordoba Gold and Black with Black Buttons |
Tap Plate | Yes |
Electronics | N / A |
Strings | Savarez Cristal Corum High Tension 500CJ |
Included Case | Case Sold Separately |
Upper Bout Width | 286mm (11 1/4") |
Lower Bout Width | 368mm (14 1/2") |
Body Depth Upper Bout | 85mm (3 1/3") |
Body Depth Lower Bout | 90mm (3 1/2") |
Body Length | 489mm (19 1/4") |
Overall Length | 984mm (38 3/4") |
Reviews:
I use my C10sp mainly to study and play classical music at home. I own another classical which I use for gigs. I don't want my C10SP to get bumped up and scratched. The sound is well balanced with excellent bass and crisp trebles. The intonation is perfect across the fretboard. The action was standard so I lowered a bit to my taste. The wood is beautiful, the spruce top has a nice color with bear claw marks that makes it unique. The rosewood back and sides has a nice color with a beautiful rose/brownish grain. The tuners are beautiful as well and functional as it keeps the guitar tuned very well all the time. The C10SP is an excellent classical guitar at an incredible price.Guitarmonsterz
I went to a guitar store specializing in classical guitars, and tried out a whole lot. For the price, I could not find a better-sounding guitar (if you are after the flamenco sound). Other options: While I originally intended to buy a Cordoba with cutaway and electronics, I found that those guitars (despite from being 50% more expensive) lacked in the quality of sound. A pickup from something like Kremona would cost a lot less. Sound: This guitar has a very clear sound – something you want regardless of the type of guitar. The notes do not sound muffled or dead. The flamenco construction adds to this by producing a shorter sustain, and a very bright tone. At times, it sounds similar to bells ringing. Additionally, there is a little bit of fret buzz on the bass strings when played hard – nowhere near the amount of buzz a flamenco requires, but the bridge had a lot of room to be sanded down if that's what you are after. This should go without mention, but this guitar is made for a flamenco/percussive style of playing. It is entirely possible to play classical music on it, but that music will sound better on the classical equivalent (Cordoba C7). For percussive playing, tapping various regions of the top produces a range of sounds from dull to sharp and bring – lots of potential there. Construction: I found that this guitar is built very well. It would be nice to see book-matched top and bottom, but this is after all an entry level flamenco guitar. Value: I think this is a great guitar for the price. Nothing sounds better (flamenco-wise) in guitars up to two or three times the price. Not to mention the gig bag, and truss rod – something a lot of guitars do not come with.VladimirK
I just purchased my Cordoba C9 Parlor, and I'm so excited. Since I previously owned a Taylor GS Mini with steel strings, I was looking for a smaller size guitar with nylon strings. I tried several smaller-feel, nylon guitars (Cordoba Cadete 3/4 Size, Cordoba C5 CET Thinner Body and F7 Paco Flamenco Guitar). The first guitar I tried, the Cordoba Cadete, felt too small. The Cadete is smaller than my Taylor GS Mini. The second guitar, the Cordoba C5 CET, had a slimmer body and a thinner neck. Both of these characteristics made the C5 CET easier to play. However, I felt that its sound was slightly compromised due to its slimmer body. The third guitar I tried, the F7 Paco, was very light and comfortable, but I wasn't akin to playing flamenco, so instead I went with the Cordoba C9 Parlor. I could not be happier with my purchase. Though the D string broke within 3-days of owning my new C9 Parlor, Sam Ash's staff replaced the string same day. Additionally, the C9 Parlor comes with Cordoba's polyfoam case. Please note that this polyfoam case is not a Humicase. Although the case is beautiful, it is heavy and the straps are a flimsy. I wish Cordoba would make a smaller, lighter polyfoam case with more comfortable and durable straps.Dulci
12. Cordoba Cadete 3/4 Size Acoustic Nylon String Classical Guitar
Product Details:
Slightly larger than the requinto 580, the cadete is a 3/4 size guitar (615mm scale length). it has the traditional spanish 7 fan bracing, a solid cedar top and mahogany back and sides. additional features include a hand inlaid wooden rosette, gold tuning machines with pearl buttons and a rosewood fingerboard. an adjustable truss rod is built into the neck. this is a great guitar for anyone looking for a lightweight, comfortable, and easy playing instrument.the cordoba cadete comes strung with high tension savarez guitar strings, which are meant to be used in standard e tuning only. for a guitar that is designed to withstand higher pitched tunings, consider cordoba's c1 1/4, c1 1/2, or requinto 580. case sold separately.
Specifications:
Build | Small Body |
Construction | Solid Top |
Body Top | Solid Western Red Cedar |
Top Bracing Pattern | Fan |
Soundhole Diameter | 84mm (3 1/3") |
Rosette | All Wood Traditional |
Top Binding | Composite |
Back and Sides Wood | Mahogany |
Neck Material | Mahogany |
Scale Length | 615mm (24.2") |
Neck Shape | C Shape |
Neck Thickness 1st Fret | 21mm |
Neck Thickness 9th Fret | 24mm |
Truss Rod | Dual Action |
Truss Rod Wrench | 4mm Allen Key |
Frets Total | 19 |
Finish | Gloss Polyurethane |
Saddle Material | Bone |
Nut Material | Bone |
Tuning Machines | Cordoba Gold with Pearl Buttons |
Strings | Savarez Cristal Corum High Tension 500CJ |
Upper Bout Width | 260mm (10 1/4") |
Lower Bout Width | 343mm (13 1/2") |
Body Depth Upper Bout | 80mm (3 1/8") |
Body Depth Lower Bout | 85mm (3 1/3") |
Body Length | 457mm (18") |
Overall Length | 940mm (37") |
Country of Origin | China |
Reviews:
This was my upgrade from a Lucero 150se and what a difference it made. In terms of playability there's no comparison, the Cordoba is superior in every way. Start with the tuners/nut which are perfectly smooth allowing you to make small adjustments even on steel strings. Playing the Cordoba is simply easier and there were things I could not do well on the Lucero due to the thickness of the wood neck. Mind you I'm not talking about the nut width which is 50mm on both, I'm talking the actual thickness of the wood neck itself below the fret board. The slimmer profile of the Cordoba meant reaching certain chords easier, changing chords faster, and giving my hands the ability to put pressure when needed. The factory strings on the Cordoba appear to be superior as well although I would still upgrade them if you can afford it; the steel strings on the Lucero wore out at about 85hrs. No fret noise of any kind on the Cordoba (so long as you play the chord right) whereas on the Lucero I would get buzzing on frets 5 & 6 from both 5th and 4th strings with anything other than light strumming, even with perfect finger placement. The sound of the Cordoba is more sharp, crisp, and clear than the Lucero. My only con is that the shallower body does create a slightly more "twangy" sound than I'm used to but its a negligible difference I quickly settled with in exchange for the other qualities. You get what you pay for. This is a very solid guitar for the price. I would recommend nothing less for serious beginners.Joe T
I mostly play rock/popular music gigs but wanted a classical nylon guitar for that particular sound on home recording projects. I researched intermediate level guitars and thought I'd found what I wanted when I chanced on a review of the Cordoba C7 and decided to spend a little more and go with that. I haven't been disappointed. The build quality and tone have been worth that little extra. It would have been nice if a gig bag was included to give it some protection but it wasn't a deal breaker.David
I had a misconception regarding this brand. The only Cordoba's I noticed in stock at the store were inexpensive ukuleles. So when I began the search for a proper classical guitar, Cordoba was nowhere on my list. I ordered a used european built guitar by a reputable brand. It arrived with a bad up-bow in the neck. That's when I learned that traditional classical guitars have no truss rod. (Just my opinion, but wood isn't what it used to be, and you aren't going to get an instrument built with old growth timber under several thousand dollars.) So began my search for a "traditional classical guitar", but with a truss rod. That google search led straight to Cordoba. (All their models have truss rods.) I ordered a C7 (built in China) and a 45CO (built in Spain) to see what this brand was about. It would be a battle royale for build and sound quality. The loser is… my bank account, because I'd like to keep both. The two have a different build and likewise a different feel and sound. (see Cordoba's website for details.) Fit and finish is impeccable on both guitars. The C7 projects more, while the 45CO has perhaps a slightly more refined tone. My past experience has been that nylon string guitars are difficult to play, have poor intonation and need to be tuned more than played. None of that is the case with these two. My steel string acoustic and electrics are collecting dust while I obsess over this genre of guitar. My conclusion is… classical guitars are awesome, and Cordoba should definitely be on your test drive list. What I received are well priced instruments that are not only well made but intoxicatingly fun to play.JRH
13. Cordoba C9 Parlor Acoustic Nylon String Parlor Size Guitar
Product Details:
The handmade c9 parlor (7/8 size) is ideal for the player looking for the feel, comfort, and ease of playability that a smaller instrument provides, while retaining the sweet, warm tone created by all-solid wood construction. the c9 parlor is handmade by a small team of builders in a boutique workshop using traditional spanish construction techniques such as the spanish heel, hand carved necks and braces, and domed soundboards. it also features the vintage elegance of a hand-inlaid mother-of-pearl rosette inspired by a 1920s domingo esteso design. like its full-size companion, the c9 cd, the c9 parlor is made with a solid canadian cedar top and solid mahogany back and sides. includes a cordoba polyfoam case.
Specifications:
Reviews:
This was my upgrade from a Lucero 150se and what a difference it made. In terms of playability there's no comparison, the Cordoba is superior in every way. Start with the tuners/nut which are perfectly smooth allowing you to make small adjustments even on steel strings. Playing the Cordoba is simply easier and there were things I could not do well on the Lucero due to the thickness of the wood neck. Mind you I'm not talking about the nut width which is 50mm on both, I'm talking the actual thickness of the wood neck itself below the fret board. The slimmer profile of the Cordoba meant reaching certain chords easier, changing chords faster, and giving my hands the ability to put pressure when needed. The factory strings on the Cordoba appear to be superior as well although I would still upgrade them if you can afford it; the steel strings on the Lucero wore out at about 85hrs. No fret noise of any kind on the Cordoba (so long as you play the chord right) whereas on the Lucero I would get buzzing on frets 5 & 6 from both 5th and 4th strings with anything other than light strumming, even with perfect finger placement. The sound of the Cordoba is more sharp, crisp, and clear than the Lucero. My only con is that the shallower body does create a slightly more "twangy" sound than I'm used to but its a negligible difference I quickly settled with in exchange for the other qualities. You get what you pay for. This is a very solid guitar for the price. I would recommend nothing less for serious beginners.Joe T
I mostly play rock/popular music gigs but wanted a classical nylon guitar for that particular sound on home recording projects. I researched intermediate level guitars and thought I'd found what I wanted when I chanced on a review of the Cordoba C7 and decided to spend a little more and go with that. I haven't been disappointed. The build quality and tone have been worth that little extra. It would have been nice if a gig bag was included to give it some protection but it wasn't a deal breaker.David
I had a misconception regarding this brand. The only Cordoba's I noticed in stock at the store were inexpensive ukuleles. So when I began the search for a proper classical guitar, Cordoba was nowhere on my list. I ordered a used european built guitar by a reputable brand. It arrived with a bad up-bow in the neck. That's when I learned that traditional classical guitars have no truss rod. (Just my opinion, but wood isn't what it used to be, and you aren't going to get an instrument built with old growth timber under several thousand dollars.) So began my search for a "traditional classical guitar", but with a truss rod. That google search led straight to Cordoba. (All their models have truss rods.) I ordered a C7 (built in China) and a 45CO (built in Spain) to see what this brand was about. It would be a battle royale for build and sound quality. The loser is… my bank account, because I'd like to keep both. The two have a different build and likewise a different feel and sound. (see Cordoba's website for details.) Fit and finish is impeccable on both guitars. The C7 projects more, while the 45CO has perhaps a slightly more refined tone. My past experience has been that nylon string guitars are difficult to play, have poor intonation and need to be tuned more than played. None of that is the case with these two. My steel string acoustic and electrics are collecting dust while I obsess over this genre of guitar. My conclusion is… classical guitars are awesome, and Cordoba should definitely be on your test drive list. What I received are well priced instruments that are not only well made but intoxicatingly fun to play.JRH
14. Alhambra 4p Classical Guitar
Product Details:
This item was returned in mint condition. it is free of any performance issues, and has no scratches, blemishes, or other cosmetic flaws.the 4 p nylon-string classical is one of best-selling alhambra guitars in the company's history. four layers of light varnish highlight its solid red canadian cedar top and the gorgeous rosewood laminate on back and side. the fingerboard is made of beautiful ebony, and its gold-plated machine heads are of a superior quality, allowing smooth and precise tuning. built in spain.gig bag included.
Specifications:
Body type | Classical |
Cutaway | No |
Top wood | Solid Canadian Cedar |
Bracing pattern | Fan |
Body finish | Varnish |
Orientation | Right handed |
Neck shape | U |
Nut width | 2.04 in. (52 mm) |
Fingerboard | Ebony |
Neck wood | Mahogany |
Scale length | 25 in. |
Number of frets | 18 |
Neck finish | Varnish |
Pickup/preamp | No |
Headstock overlay | Rosewood |
Tuning machines | Gold Plated |
Bridge | Rosewood |
Number of strings | 6-string |
Country of origin | Spain |
Reviews:
Alhambra is a very premium making that has started making factory guitars, this ones not bad- probably the best beginner guitar I've seen at guitar center. However it's pretty pricey and you basically are paying the price to get it shipped from Spain and at that price there are many handmades from Spain that are better. Still not badDan, I
I just received my handmade Linea Profesional built by Alhambra in Spain. This is perhaps one of the absolute best professional level classical guitars you can buy for the money. It has a cedar soundboard giving the guitar a deep melodious, Spanish tone with excellent sustain. The innovative strut design offers the guitar magnificent projection. It came with two saddles. I use the lower saddle without buzz. The tuning machines are beautiful and compliment the instrument. The rosette, saddle decoration, and binding are all beautifully matched. You cannot find a better classical guitar in this price point. I recommend it without reservation. This is my forever guitar.frona-22
Great guitar for the price point. Tried all of the other classical models in the store at this price point and below, and walked away with this one due to both sound and aesthetics. Particularly good for the Brazilian jazz stylings I was looking to play. Definitely recommended as an entry point into the classical world.Brian
15. Cordoba C9 Crossover Acoustic Nylon String Guitar
Product Details:
The cordoba c9 crossover offers a new spin on a cordoba classic. built with a solid canadian cedar top and solid mahogany back and sides, the c9 crossover features a 48mm nut width, radiused fingerboard, and hand-carved mahogany neck with a thinner profile. it also includes a two-way truss rod built into the neck. this model is an excellent choice for the guitarist who loves the sound and look of the traditional c9, but prefers the feel of a steel string or electric guitar. the c9 crossover features a fan bracing pattern, which gives the center of the soundboard more surface area to vibrate and respond to the tension of the strings. a more responsive soundboard makes the guitar louder, and provides better tone. like every guitar in the luthier series, the c9 crossover is built with spanish heel construction, where the top of the guitar is attached to the neck, the sides are added next, and the guitar's body is sealed by the installation of the back. this construction technique allows the entire instrument to vibrate as one unified piece. aesthetic touches like the mother-of-pearl weave rosette inspired by a 1920's domingo esteso guitar add a touch of vintage elegance to this best-seller. other premium features include an rosewood fingerboard, rosewood bridge, high gloss finish, and savarez cristal corum strings. the c9 crossover includes cordoba's lightweight polyfoam case.
Specifications:
Body Top | Solid Western Red Cedar |
Upper Bout Width | 292mm (11 1/2") |
Lower Bout Width | 371mm (14 5/8") |
Body Depth Upper Bout | 95mm (3 3/4") |
Body Depth Lower Bout | 100mm (4") |
Body Length | 489mm (19 1/4") |
Overall Length | 984mm (38 3/4") |
Soundhole Diameter | 84mm (3 1/3") |
Top Bracing Pattern | Fan |
Back and Sides Wood | Solid African Mahogany |
Top Binding | Rosewood |
Rosette | Pearloid Esteso Weave Pattern |
Top Purfling Inlay | Padauk, Maple and Black |
Side Purfling Inlay | Maple and Black |
Back Purfling Inlay | Maple and Black |
Bridge Material | Ebony |
Saddle Material | Bone |
Scale Length | 650mm (25 1/2") |
Neck Material | Mahogany |
Fingerboard Material | Ebony |
Nut Width | 48mm (1 7/8") |
Nut Material | Bone |
Truss Rod | Dual Action |
Truss Rod Wrench | 4mm Allen Key |
Neck Thickness 1st Fret | 21mm |
Neck Thickness 9th Fret | 24mm |
Frets Total | 19 |
Tuning Machines | Cordoba Silver with Black Buttons |
Neck Shape | C Shape |
Finish | Gloss Polyurethane |
Tap Plate | No |
Strings | Savarez Cristal Corum High Tension 500CJ |
Included Case | Cordoba Polyfoam Case |
Reviews:
I use my C10sp mainly to study and play classical music at home. I own another classical which I use for gigs. I don't want my C10SP to get bumped up and scratched. The sound is well balanced with excellent bass and crisp trebles. The intonation is perfect across the fretboard. The action was standard so I lowered a bit to my taste. The wood is beautiful, the spruce top has a nice color with bear claw marks that makes it unique. The rosewood back and sides has a nice color with a beautiful rose/brownish grain. The tuners are beautiful as well and functional as it keeps the guitar tuned very well all the time. The C10SP is an excellent classical guitar at an incredible price.Guitarmonsterz
I went to a guitar store specializing in classical guitars, and tried out a whole lot. For the price, I could not find a better-sounding guitar (if you are after the flamenco sound). Other options: While I originally intended to buy a Cordoba with cutaway and electronics, I found that those guitars (despite from being 50% more expensive) lacked in the quality of sound. A pickup from something like Kremona would cost a lot less. Sound: This guitar has a very clear sound – something you want regardless of the type of guitar. The notes do not sound muffled or dead. The flamenco construction adds to this by producing a shorter sustain, and a very bright tone. At times, it sounds similar to bells ringing. Additionally, there is a little bit of fret buzz on the bass strings when played hard – nowhere near the amount of buzz a flamenco requires, but the bridge had a lot of room to be sanded down if that's what you are after. This should go without mention, but this guitar is made for a flamenco/percussive style of playing. It is entirely possible to play classical music on it, but that music will sound better on the classical equivalent (Cordoba C7). For percussive playing, tapping various regions of the top produces a range of sounds from dull to sharp and bring – lots of potential there. Construction: I found that this guitar is built very well. It would be nice to see book-matched top and bottom, but this is after all an entry level flamenco guitar. Value: I think this is a great guitar for the price. Nothing sounds better (flamenco-wise) in guitars up to two or three times the price. Not to mention the gig bag, and truss rod – something a lot of guitars do not come with.VladimirK
I just purchased my Cordoba C9 Parlor, and I'm so excited. Since I previously owned a Taylor GS Mini with steel strings, I was looking for a smaller size guitar with nylon strings. I tried several smaller-feel, nylon guitars (Cordoba Cadete 3/4 Size, Cordoba C5 CET Thinner Body and F7 Paco Flamenco Guitar). The first guitar I tried, the Cordoba Cadete, felt too small. The Cadete is smaller than my Taylor GS Mini. The second guitar, the Cordoba C5 CET, had a slimmer body and a thinner neck. Both of these characteristics made the C5 CET easier to play. However, I felt that its sound was slightly compromised due to its slimmer body. The third guitar I tried, the F7 Paco, was very light and comfortable, but I wasn't akin to playing flamenco, so instead I went with the Cordoba C9 Parlor. I could not be happier with my purchase. Though the D string broke within 3-days of owning my new C9 Parlor, Sam Ash's staff replaced the string same day. Additionally, the C9 Parlor comes with Cordoba's polyfoam case. Please note that this polyfoam case is not a Humicase. Although the case is beautiful, it is heavy and the straps are a flimsy. I wish Cordoba would make a smaller, lighter polyfoam case with more comfortable and durable straps.Dulci
16. Cordoba C10 Parlor Sp Classical Guitar
Product Details:
The cordoba c10 parlor is ideal for the player looking for the feel, comfort, and ease of playability that a smaller instrument provides, while retaining the sweet, warm tone created by all-solid wood construction. built with either a solid canadian cedar or solid european spruce top with solid indian rosewood back and sides, the c10 parlor features a 7/8 body size, 50mm nut width, and the fan bracing pattern found on most cordoba guitars. this bracing pattern gives the center of the soundboard more surface area to vibrate and respond to the tension of the strings. a more responsive soundboard makes the guitar louder, and provides better tone. like every guitar in the luthier series, the c10 parlor is built with spanish heel construction, where the top of the guitar is attached to the neck, the sides are added next, and the guitar’s body is sealed by the installation of the back. this construction technique allows the entire instrument to vibrate as one unified piece. aesthetic touches like the mother-of-pearl weave rosette inspired by a 1920’s domingo esteso guitar add a touch of vintage elegance to this best-seller. other premium features include an ebony fingerboard, rosewood bridge, high gloss finish, and savarez cristal corum strings. the c10 parlor includes cordoba’s lightweight polyfoam case.
Specifications:
Product Dimensions | 46 x 8 x 18 inches |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | Yes |
Back Material | Indian Rosewood |
Color Name | Spruce, Parlor |
Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
Top Material | Spruce |
Neck Material Type | Mahogany |
Number of Strings | 6 |
Guitar Bridge System | Fixed |
Fretboard Material Type | Rosewood |
Hand Orientation | Right |
Reviews:
I use my C10sp mainly to study and play classical music at home. I own another classical which I use for gigs. I don't want my C10SP to get bumped up and scratched. The sound is well balanced with excellent bass and crisp trebles. The intonation is perfect across the fretboard. The action was standard so I lowered a bit to my taste. The wood is beautiful, the spruce top has a nice color with bear claw marks that makes it unique. The rosewood back and sides has a nice color with a beautiful rose/brownish grain. The tuners are beautiful as well and functional as it keeps the guitar tuned very well all the time. The C10SP is an excellent classical guitar at an incredible price.Guitarmonsterz
I just purchased my Cordoba C9 Parlor, and I'm so excited. Since I previously owned a Taylor GS Mini with steel strings, I was looking for a smaller size guitar with nylon strings. I tried several smaller-feel, nylon guitars (Cordoba Cadete 3/4 Size, Cordoba C5 CET Thinner Body and F7 Paco Flamenco Guitar). The first guitar I tried, the Cordoba Cadete, felt too small. The Cadete is smaller than my Taylor GS Mini. The second guitar, the Cordoba C5 CET, had a slimmer body and a thinner neck. Both of these characteristics made the C5 CET easier to play. However, I felt that its sound was slightly compromised due to its slimmer body. The third guitar I tried, the F7 Paco, was very light and comfortable, but I wasn't akin to playing flamenco, so instead I went with the Cordoba C9 Parlor. I could not be happier with my purchase. Though the D string broke within 3-days of owning my new C9 Parlor, Sam Ash's staff replaced the string same day. Additionally, the C9 Parlor comes with Cordoba's polyfoam case. Please note that this polyfoam case is not a Humicase. Although the case is beautiful, it is heavy and the straps are a flimsy. I wish Cordoba would make a smaller, lighter polyfoam case with more comfortable and durable straps.Dulci
Overall: It is a pleasure and privilege to own the Cordoba C-10 cedar classical guitar because it has the most beautiful balance across the strings. Clearly, this depends on your playing style, and the strings you choose to use. On this instrument i use "rectified-lightly polished bass" strings. While they may not last as long as unpolished strings, the sound they produce is well worth the extra expense and restringing. I can best describe the sounds from this guitar/string combination as lyrical, poetic, and warmly human. No string requires compensation while playing, not even the intrusive G, as this is not clear nylon, but has a mixture of another compound to help "tame" this unruly member.The frets are nearly perfect, with only one area near the sound hole on the low E and A, that is rarely played by anybody, though I will have it remedied eventually. The neck is straight, fingerboard true ebony, and the saddle was perfect out of the box at 2.5 mm and 3. mm clearance at the 12th fret on the 1st and 6th strings. At this low string height, I do have to be sure that strings are constantly tuned up to avoid any buzzing, but that is a small price to pay for such fine and easy play ability.It is so gratifying to find a product that meets its billing, and the stated philosophy of Cordoba's CEO to "bring fine guitars within everybody's reach." That is absolutely true of this guitar, as the first entry into a true classical guitar it proves to be worthy of far more than its cost.Kudos must be extended to zZounds as well for their "pay and play" plan which makes such a great instrument available to mere mortals. Now that I've played this guitar, the cost has become irrelevant.Finally, the most ineffable feature of this guitar only becomes apparent when you play, especially during soft passages, as you pay attention to the celestial aroma of cedar wafting through your consciousness. I do like the sound of spruce-top guitars, but find that most are stuck in "bright to brighter" tones, and they cannot come down to a warm fireplace beside a beautiful guitar played for a beloved wife. Thank you Cordoba
17. Cordoba C7-Cd Nylon String Classical Guitar
Product Details:
The cordoba c7 is a handmade traditional nylon-string acoustic guitar featuring a solid canadian cedar top with indian rosewood back and sides, a wood-inlaid rosette, and rosewood binding, bridge and fingerboard. cordoba represents a lifestyle that blends bohemian creativity and individuality with a heritage of artistry and craftsmanship. offering an entire range of nylon-string acoustic guitars, the quality of cordoba guitars has been recognized worldwide by artists from a variety of genres and musical backgrounds. passion and tradition accompany every cordoba guitar from the craftsman who chooses the soundboard to the musician playing the finished guitar. strings: 6. string type: nylon. top: solid canadian cedar. back and sides: indian rosewood laminate. finish: polyurethane. fretboard: rosewood. scale: 25 1/2". nut width: 2". neck joint: thru-body. frets: 19. includes cordoba gig bag. scale length: 25.59".
Specifications:
Body Top | Solid Western Red Cedar |
Upper Bout Width | 292mm (11 1/2") |
Lower Bout Width | 371mm (14 5/8") |
Body Depth Upper Bout | 95mm (3 3/4") |
Body Depth Lower Bout | 100mm (4") |
Body Length | 489mm (19 1/4") |
Overall Length | 984mm (38 3/4") |
Soundhole Diameter | 84mm (3 1/3") |
Top Bracing Pattern | Fan |
Back and Sides Wood | Rosewood |
Top Binding | Rosewood |
Rosette | All Wood Traditional |
Top Purfling Inlay | Maple and Black |
Side Purfling Inlay | Maple and Black |
Back Purfling Inlay | Maple and Black |
Bridge Material | Rosewood |
Saddle Material | Bone |
Scale Length | 650mm (25 1/2") |
Neck Material | Mahogany |
Fingerboard Material | Rosewood |
Fingerboard Inlays | N / A |
Nut Width | 52mm (2") |
Nut Material | Bone |
Truss Rod | Dual Action |
Truss Rod Wrench | 4mm Allen Key |
Neck Thickness 1st Fret | 21mm |
Neck Thickness 9th Fret | 24mm |
Frets Total | 19 |
Tuning Machines | Cordoba Gold and Black with Black Buttons |
Neck Shape | C Shape |
Finish | Gloss Polyurethane |
Tap Plate | No |
Strings | Savarez Cristal Corum High Tension 500CJ |
Included Case | Cordoba Deluxe Gig Bag |
Dimensions (WxHxD) | No |
Reviews:
This is just a fabulous instrument. Maybe I received an especially good one, but it's alive! Such response, clarity, tone! Loud! Beautiful string balance. Solid low end, with not a hint of confusion – indeed easily as good as a friends $2,000 guitar (which has more cosmetic "fanciness", but no better tone or playability). Great tuning response and stability, lovely to play, wonderful neck profile. I can't put her down!Nyk Fry
Sound: The sound is good. I wouldn't put it in it's own category but definitely on par with other guitars in the same price range. Features: The most useful feature is the truss rod. This is very uncommon in traditional classic nylon string guitars and will prove very useful. Ease of Use: The main key to getting great sounds from any instrument is the player. However, I would recommend changing the stock strings to some EJ45 Pro-Arte's from D'addario. They have a warmer tone. Quality: As long as you keep it in the supplied gig bag and make sure to check the humidity often, I see no reason why this guitar wouldn't last decades. Value: Absolutely worth the price. For $500, you'd be hard pressed to find another nylon string that has the same level of craftsmanship. Some may argue that you can't get a good nylon string for under $1000 but for those of us on a budget, you can't go wrong with this. Manufacturer Support: Fortunately, I haven't had any reason to contact Cordoba. The Wow Factor: The price, the truss rod, the finish, $500 = Wow. Overall: I must say this is a fantastic guitar for the price. I felt as if I was playing a $800+ instrument. The quality is really on par with other popular brands that also sell nylon string guitars in the same price range. The finish is beautiful, a nice reddish/natural color. I read some complaints about the guitar being a bit too heavy but I disagree. It couldn't be any more light in my hands and fits perfectly in my lap. The neck is smooth and fast, fret edges are trimmed and tuning pegs feel like they have a good weight to them. A top quality guitar for under $500. Thanks Cordoba!
I was looking to graduate to a more intermediate model in the Cordoba line, having already purchased and enjoyed the C3M. The C7 is the perfect choice. First the appearance – The C7 is an exquisite looking guitar. The fit and finish are superior to other brands that I have researched. Fantastic looking rosewood back and sides, beautiful tight-grained cedar top, lovely rosette, beautiful gold and black tuning machines and the gloss finish is the icing on the cake. Now the playability features – Comfortable and smooth C shaped neck, outstanding warm tone and volume projection, standard classical string action, good intonation up the neck and the better quality tuning machines help to keep the instrument in tune. Throw in a real bone nut and saddle, lightweight adjustable truss rod, side fret markers and a sturdy padded Cordoba gig bag and you've got a total package that's tough to beat, especially at this price. I would easily recommend this guitar to anyone, especially an intermediate player like myself.Wayne C.
18. Cordoba C10 Crossover Acoustic Nylon String Guitar
Product Details:
The handmade c10 is one of the staple models in the luthier series, and is now available with a slimmer neck! the c10 crossover features a 48mm nut width, radiused fingerboard, and hand-carved mahogany neck with a thinner profile- perfect for the guitarist who loves the sound and look of the traditional c10, but prefers the feel of a steel string or electric guitar. it features a solid european spruce top with solid indian rosewood back and sides for a sweet, warm tone. like all models in the luthier series, the c10 crossover offers the vintage elegance of a hand-inlaid mother-of-pearl rosette inspired by a 1920s domingo esteso design. other notable features of the c10 crossover include its black and gold tuning machines, and adjustable truss rod. includes case.
Specifications:
Body Top | Solid European Spruce |
Upper Bout Width | 292mm (11 1/2") |
Lower Bout Width | 371mm (14 5/8") |
Body Depth Upper Bout | 95mm (3 3/4") |
Body Depth Lower Bout | 100mm (4") |
Body Length | 489mm (19 1/4") |
Overall Length | 984mm (38 3/4") |
Soundhole Diameter | 84mm (3 1/3") |
Top Bracing Pattern | Fan |
Back and Sides Wood | Solid Indian Rosewood |
Top Binding | Rosewood |
Rosette | Pearloid Esteso Weave Pattern |
Top Purfling Inlay | Padauk, Maple and Black |
Side Purfling Inlay | Maple and Black |
Back Purfling Inlay | Maple and Black |
Bridge Material | Rosewood |
Saddle Material | Bone |
Scale Length | 650mm (25 1/2") |
Neck Material | Mahogany |
Fingerboard Material | Ebony |
Nut Width | 48mm (1 7/8") |
Nut Material | Bone |
Truss Rod | Dual Action |
Truss Rod Wrench | 4mm Allen Key |
Neck Thickness 1st Fret | 21mm |
Neck Thickness 9th Fret | 24mm |
Frets Total | 19 |
Tuning Machines | Cordoba Silver with Black Buttons |
Neck Shape | C Shape |
Finish | Gloss Polyurethane |
Tap Plate | No |
Strings | Savarez Cristal Corum High Tension 500CJ |
Included Case | Cordoba Polyfoam Case |
Reviews:
I use my C10sp mainly to study and play classical music at home. I own another classical which I use for gigs. I don't want my C10SP to get bumped up and scratched. The sound is well balanced with excellent bass and crisp trebles. The intonation is perfect across the fretboard. The action was standard so I lowered a bit to my taste. The wood is beautiful, the spruce top has a nice color with bear claw marks that makes it unique. The rosewood back and sides has a nice color with a beautiful rose/brownish grain. The tuners are beautiful as well and functional as it keeps the guitar tuned very well all the time. The C10SP is an excellent classical guitar at an incredible price.Guitarmonsterz
I went to a guitar store specializing in classical guitars, and tried out a whole lot. For the price, I could not find a better-sounding guitar (if you are after the flamenco sound). Other options: While I originally intended to buy a Cordoba with cutaway and electronics, I found that those guitars (despite from being 50% more expensive) lacked in the quality of sound. A pickup from something like Kremona would cost a lot less. Sound: This guitar has a very clear sound – something you want regardless of the type of guitar. The notes do not sound muffled or dead. The flamenco construction adds to this by producing a shorter sustain, and a very bright tone. At times, it sounds similar to bells ringing. Additionally, there is a little bit of fret buzz on the bass strings when played hard – nowhere near the amount of buzz a flamenco requires, but the bridge had a lot of room to be sanded down if that's what you are after. This should go without mention, but this guitar is made for a flamenco/percussive style of playing. It is entirely possible to play classical music on it, but that music will sound better on the classical equivalent (Cordoba C7). For percussive playing, tapping various regions of the top produces a range of sounds from dull to sharp and bring – lots of potential there. Construction: I found that this guitar is built very well. It would be nice to see book-matched top and bottom, but this is after all an entry level flamenco guitar. Value: I think this is a great guitar for the price. Nothing sounds better (flamenco-wise) in guitars up to two or three times the price. Not to mention the gig bag, and truss rod – something a lot of guitars do not come with.VladimirK
I just purchased my Cordoba C9 Parlor, and I'm so excited. Since I previously owned a Taylor GS Mini with steel strings, I was looking for a smaller size guitar with nylon strings. I tried several smaller-feel, nylon guitars (Cordoba Cadete 3/4 Size, Cordoba C5 CET Thinner Body and F7 Paco Flamenco Guitar). The first guitar I tried, the Cordoba Cadete, felt too small. The Cadete is smaller than my Taylor GS Mini. The second guitar, the Cordoba C5 CET, had a slimmer body and a thinner neck. Both of these characteristics made the C5 CET easier to play. However, I felt that its sound was slightly compromised due to its slimmer body. The third guitar I tried, the F7 Paco, was very light and comfortable, but I wasn't akin to playing flamenco, so instead I went with the Cordoba C9 Parlor. I could not be happier with my purchase. Though the D string broke within 3-days of owning my new C9 Parlor, Sam Ash's staff replaced the string same day. Additionally, the C9 Parlor comes with Cordoba's polyfoam case. Please note that this polyfoam case is not a Humicase. Although the case is beautiful, it is heavy and the straps are a flimsy. I wish Cordoba would make a smaller, lighter polyfoam case with more comfortable and durable straps.Dulci
19. Taylor Academy 12-N Grand Concert Nylon String Guitar
Product Details:
The taylor academy 12-n classical guitar is elegant, comfortable to play, and a true natural beauty. its lutz spruce top offers a hybrid tone that boasts the qualities of sitka and white spruce, so you can explore an abundance of dynamics and richness that responds to strong attack. layered sapele back and sides then produce glistening clarity whilst a sublime grand concert shape accommodates fingerstyles, perfect for folk players. underneath your fingertips will lie a luscious ebony fretboard, a tonewood that lends itself to seamless playing. slide from fret to fret in glorious, effortless fashion. it's magical. the smooth feel and sound of nylon strings then beg you to delve into their superb classical tone. a gig bag is included too, protecting the academy 12-n from any damage on the road, so you can travel with peace of mind.
Specifications:
Scale Length | 25-1/2" |
Bracing | Academy Series |
Truss Rod Cover | Black Plastic |
Number of Frets | 17 |
Tuners | Classical Nickel |
Body Length | 19 1/2" |
Body Width | 15" |
Body Depth | 4 3/8" |
Binding/Edge Treatment | Black |
Top Finish | Varnish |
Back Config | Layered |
Rosette Size | Three Ring |
Back/Side Finish | Varnish |
Rosette Mat. | Wood/Fiber |
Armrest | Yes |
Neck Width | 1-7/8” |
Fretboard Inlay | 4mm Dot Italian Acrylic |
Heel Cap Binding | Black |
Type of Neck Joint | Taylor Neck |
Neck/Heel | Mahogany |
Fretboard Wood | West African Ebony |
Neck Finish | Varnish |
Heel Length | 3-1/2” |
Peghead Type | Slot Head |
Headstock Overlay | Copafera |
Peghead Logo | Printed on Headstock Overlay |
Reviews:
This guitar is a lot of fun. I have played for a long time, and owned many guitars including some higher-end Taylor acoustics. Due to issues with my elbow, I didn't think that I would be able to play an acoustic guitar again. This nylon string guitar, however, doesn't aggravate my elbow and is super fun to play. It has a great sound for the money. Highly recommended.Dave S.
20. Cordoba Fusion Orchestra Ce Crossover Classical Acoustic-Electric Guitar Teardrop Sunburst
Product Details:
The orchestra ce is one of cordoba's best-selling crossover guitars. with a solid canadian cedar top and rosewood back and sides, this model's main feature is its slim neck profile and only 12 frets to the body, which maximizes the amount of resonance and vibration across the soundboard. it's the perfect blend of classic spanish designs with modern aestheticsa hand-inlaid wooden rosette, elegant mahogany binding and a high-gloss polyurethane finish. ready to plug in and play, the orchestra ce comes equipped with the fishman presys blend preamp.case sold separately.fusion seriesthe orchestra ce belongs to c? rdobas fusion series, a line of high-quality crossover/hybrid nylon-string guitars designed to play and feel like steel-string acoustics. with the option of 12 or 14 frets to the body on most models, these slimmer dimensions, combined with a radiused fingerboard, give the fusion series the feel and playability that most steel string and electric guitar players prefer. tonally, the fusion series models have all the warmth, body and resonance that traditionalclassical? nylon string guitars are known for, and are built using traditional spanish guitar methods like domed soundboards and fan bracing patterns.
Specifications:
Body type | Crossover |
Cutaway | Single |
Top wood | Solid Western red cedar |
Back and sides | Rosewood |
Bracing pattern | Fan |
Body finish | Gloss Polyurethane |
Orientation | Right handed |
Neck shape | Crossover C |
Nut width | 1.875" (48 mm) |
Fingerboard | Ebony |
Neck wood | Mahogany |
Scale length | 25.5" |
Number of frets | 19 |
Neck finish | Gloss |
Pickup/preamp | Yes |
Configuration | Sidemounted preamp |
Preamp EQ | 4-band |
Feedback filter | Notch, Phase |
Tuner | Yes |
Headstock overlay | Rosewood |
Tuning machines | Cordoba silver with black buttons |
Bridge | Rosewood |
Saddle and nut | Bone |
Number of strings | 6 |
Country of origin | China |
Reviews:
It's hard to find a high quality affordable nylon guitar with a 48mm neck. I have both the Cordoba Orchestra CE Crossover and the Kremona Verea. I like the Cordoba CE a lot more. I'm surprised that there aren't more favorable reviews for the Cordoba compared to the Verea. I admit that I took the Cordoba to a luthier and had the action lowered. They told me high action was normal for nylon, but I convinced them to lower it, now it's really nice; low action and no buzz. Maybe if I did that to the Verea I would like it more, but it seems like the neck on the Cordoba is better. The Verea is fatter with a flat finger board, while the the Cordoba is thiner and maybe a slightly rounder finger board. The Verea looks a little better and the tuning pegs are nicer, but all that stuff is somewhat superficial. The bottom line is that I find myself playing the Cordoba all the time and when I pick up the Verea it just doesn't do it. To me, the Cordoba design and craftsmanship is superior but maybe that's why it cost a little more. That's ok because at the end of the day you want a guitar that you're going to keep forever, and not sell back to Guitar Center.CY
Overall: Before I say anything about the guitar I need to say something special about zZounds. 12 equal payments for this fabulous instrument, are you kidding me? As long as zZounds sells what I need I will always buy from zZounds. The guitar is great. The Orchestra model is worth the extra $. I also bought the Gator case which is vault like protection. What sold me was the feel of the neck was made for steel string and electric guitar players. If you've ever wondered why traditional classical guitar necks feel like a baseball bat there's a reason. Classical guitars from the past (1500, 1600, etc) had NO TRUST ROD so the neck had to be really big. Why haven't they changed that in the modern era? Tradition is a hard habit to change so thank God Cordoba used some common sense.
Having always been a steel string/electric player I wanted to add a classical/nylon string to the collection and after a lot of trials and research I ended up with one of these. Appearance and feel wise, it could easily stand up against guitars twice the price in my opinion and sound wise I'd have to say the same. It's got a wonderful rich warm sound but the highs just cut through beautifully and that's before plugging it, as it truly comes to life then. The pickups sound ace and the blended mic/pick up makes it sound absolutely mind blowing giving an airy clear sound, but with lows that resonate. Definitely recommend checking one of these out, especially if moving from steel strung.T M.
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