The Quintessential Guide to Classical Guitars: The One Stop Destination for All Things Nylon.
With the rise in popularity of the acoustic guitar, many people have become increasingly interested in classical guitars as well. While many people are familiar with the look of a traditional steel-string acoustic guitar, the classical guitar has its own unique and distinctive qualities that make it an attractive instrument to pursue. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first guitar or an experienced player looking to expand their guitar collection, it’s important to understand the specifics of the classical guitar. In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of classical guitars and explore the various features, materials, and styles that make the classical guitar unique in the world of acoustic instruments.
Classical guitars are nylon string acoustic guitars that are well-known for their traditional design, warm sound, and expansive playing style. Although they are similar to acoustic guitars in many ways, there are several aspects that make the classical guitar stand out. The main feature that sets classical guitars apart from other acoustic guitars is the type of strings used. Classical guitars traditionally use nylon strings instead of steel strings, which gives them a distinctively softer sound and feel.
In terms of design, classical guitars typically have a wider neck that allows for easier fretting. Also, the body is usually larger than that of a smaller steel-string guitar, giving the classical guitar a greater sound range and resonance. The bridge on a classical guitar is usually quite wide and low, allowing enough surface area to make easy vibrato. This vibrato sound is a signature of the classical guitar, and one that many classical guitarists seek to emulate.
Classical guitars are also characterized by other features, including their very simple headstock designs, a warm mahogany body and cedar top, and scalloped bracing. This bracing design allows for more resonance and flexibility than normal acoustic guitars. All these features come together to create a lighter and softer sound that is often associated with classical and flamenco music.
In terms of playability, classical guitars tend to be easier to play than other guitars due to their wider neck and softer strings. For this reason, they are a popular choice among beginning guitarists. However, due to the larger size and tension of the strings, classical guitarists often earn greater calluses on their fingertips than acoustic guitarists.
Finally, in terms of sound quality, classical guitars are often preferred for recordings and concert performances over other acoustic guitars because of their low dynamic range and lack of “twangy” sound. This gives classical guitars an overall smoother sound that is great for recording and heavy touring.
At the end of the day, classical guitars are an incredibly valuable addition to any guitar collection. With so many features and materials that make this type of guitar stand out, it’s easy to see why the classical guitar has been a staple in music for centuries. Whether you’re playing classical and flamenco styles, fingerstyle picking, or just want a unique and balanced sounding guitar, the classical guitar is the one stop destination for all things nylon.