10 Best Classical Guitars 2025 in the United States

The Cordoba C9 CD/MH is a high-quality classical guitar that features a solid Canadian cedar top and solid mahogany back and sides. These tonewoods are known for producing a warm, rich sound that is highly desirable for classical music. The rosewood fingerboard and Indian rosewood bridge also contribute to the guitar's tone and playability. The guitar has a scale length of 25.6 inches, which is standard for classical guitars, providing a comfortable playing experience for most players.

The neck width is designed to accommodate classical playing styles, making it a suitable choice for both beginners and more advanced players. The body size and shape follow traditional classical guitar designs, offering a familiar feel to classical guitarists. The nylon strings are suitable for the genre, producing a soft, mellow sound that is easy on the fingers, especially for newer players. Additionally, the action is set up to be player-friendly, reducing the effort needed to press down the strings.

One significant advantage is the inclusion of a Cordoba Polyfoam case, which offers good protection for the guitar during transport. However, the absence of a pickup may be a drawback for those looking to amplify their sound without external microphones. At 3.5 pounds, this guitar is lightweight, making it easy to handle and carry. While it might be a bit on the pricier side, the quality and craftsmanship offer good value for serious classical guitar enthusiasts.

The Taylor 312ce-N Nylon String Grand Concert is a well-crafted instrument that stands out for its comfortable body size and shape, making it suitable for players of all skill levels, especially those who prefer a softer touch of nylon strings. The combination of mahogany and sapele woods in the body gives it a warm and rich tone, which is great for classical music and fingerstyle playing. The guitar’s scale length of 25.5 inches allows for easy playability, while the 1.875-inch neck width provides enough space for fingerstyle techniques without being too wide for smaller hands.

One of the guitar's notable strengths is its excellent build quality, which is a hallmark of the Taylor brand. The fixed bridge system enhances tuning stability, and the natural finish adds a pleasing aesthetic. This model is on the higher end of the price spectrum, which might not be accessible for beginners or those on a budget. Additionally, while the nylon strings provide a softer sound, they may lack some of the projection found in traditional classical guitars that use nylon and gut strings. The body size, while comfortable for many, might feel smaller for players accustomed to larger guitars.

The Taylor 312ce-N is a fantastic option for intermediate to advanced players looking for a comfortable and high-quality nylon-string guitar. It excels in warm tone and playability, though budget-conscious beginners may need to consider alternative models.

The Cordoba Fusion 12 Rose II is a nylon-string classical guitar featuring a unique +Top design—a solid spruce top covered by a thin rosewood veneer. This combination delivers the warm, bright tone of spruce along with the rich visual appeal of rosewood. The back and sides are crafted from rosewood, adding depth to the sound. It has a scale length of 25.6 inches and a Pau Ferro fretboard, providing a comfortable playing experience suitable for most hand sizes. The neck is made of mahogany, offering good stability and a smooth feel.

This guitar has a full body with a deep cutaway, making higher frets more accessible for advanced playing. Equipped with nylon strings, it produces mellow, expressive tones and is gentle on the fingers. The Fusion 12 Rose II also includes an undersaddle piezo pickup and onboard tuner, which are ideal for players who want to plug in for performances or recording. Weighing just 3.5 pounds, it is light and easy to handle.

The Fusion 12 Rose II is well suited for intermediate to advanced players seeking a classical guitar with modern aesthetics and electric capability. Beginners should evaluate the fit and comfort of the neck and action before purchasing.