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The 10 Best Classical Guitar Under 1000 For 2023

Suzanne Woods
  Dec 10, 2023 7:38 PM

For aspiring classical guitarists, finding the perfect instrument to meet their budget and playing style can be both daunting and time consuming.

With so many models available on the market today ranging from acoustic to electric guitars and featuring a wide range of tones, woods, shapes, strings, size and price points — it's no wonder why narrowing down your choices is such a challenge. That's why we've compiled this list of our 10 favorite classical guitars under $1000 for 2023.

With careful consideration given to sound quality as well as craftsmanship and user feedback - these selections are sure to take you one step closer towards becoming the musician you aspire to be!


Our best choices

Best professional: Yamaha CG182S

Crafted with a solid European spruce top and rosewood back and sides, this classical guitar has a rich, full sound that will bring your performance to the next level. The nato neck is slim and durable while the ebony fingerboard offers smooth, easy playing. 

The rosewood bridge adds additional stability and resonance for an overall richer sound. The classic design with natural finish make it an attractive addition to any home or studio. Whether you’re a professional player or just beginning your journey in the world of music, you can be sure that this guitar will provide years of enjoyment. 

Best classic: Fender 970160506

This acoustic guitar is the perfect combination of classic looks and modern sound. With its concert body style, solid spruce top with classical fan bracing, and mahogany back and sides, this guitar projects a timeless beauty with a vibrant tone. No matter your playing style, you can rest assured that your audience will be captivated by this beauty.

The neck of the CN-60S is ergonomic and easy to maneuver, featuring rolled fingerboard edges that make chording and vibrato easier to control. Its black finish gives it a sleek aesthetic that adds to its allure — not to mention its vibrant sound, unrivaled craftsmanship, and lasting durability creates an experience that will have any musician coming back for more.

Best modern: Yamaha CGS102AII

This half-sized classical guitar features a spruce top for increased resonance and strong sound projection with meranti back & sides that make it light in weight but not in the quality of sound.

Its fingerboard & bridge are constructed from rosewood, giving your notes a smooth, crisp sound and feel that will leave you delighted. Plus, its natural finish makes for an attractive blend of modern style and traditional touches that look as good as it sounds.

The CGS102A includes strings with scale 25.6 inches long and a body depth of 3.15 - 3.3 inches with a width (Nut/Body) of 2.05 inches at the finger board – dimensions perfect for getting used to guitar playing or even small hands! 

Best value: Yamaha C40II

With an exquisite meranti back and sides, a rosewood fingerboard and bridge, and a glossy finish, this guitar boasts an unbeatable combination of eye-catching beauty and superior sound. Whether you're just starting out or you're already a seasoned pro, the C40II Classical Guitar can take your playing to the next level.

From its lightweight body design to its traditional classic style neck shape, every detail has been meticulously crafted to create an extraordinary instrument that's both comfortable to play and easy on the eyes.

The craftsmanship is truly impeccable – you'll be able to feel each note reverberating as it penetrates deeply into your soul. The tone is clear and pure with plenty of power; perfect for strumming away shimmering chords or combining melodies like only a true musician can do.

Best durable: Fender 0374010502

Crafted by Fender with great attention to detail, this instrument is inspired by classic '60s-era Strat models but updated with today's high-quality electronics and hardware. As soon as you pick up the neck you can feel the smooth, silky Laurel fingerboard that's both beautiful and comfortable.

Look at any angle, and you'll see fine nickel-plated hardware giving it a distinctively stunning shimmer. The Alnico Single Coil pickups provide clear, robust tone that's sure to make your playing stand out from the crowd every time; be sure to pick one up and experience why Strat models remain so popular today.

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Last update on 2023-12-10 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API


How to choose

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Classical Guitar Under $1000

Squier Classic Vibe

Are you in the market for a new classical guitar? If so, you're in luck! In this blog post, we will discuss some of the things you need to consider before purchasing a classical guitar under $1000.

It can be difficult to find the perfect guitar for your needs, but with careful consideration and research, you can find one that is perfect for you.

So, what should you look for when choosing a classical guitar? Keep reading to find out!

1. Construction Quality:

A classical guitar is a major investment and you want to make sure it's built to last. Look for guitars made with solid spruce or cedar tops, mahogany or rosewood backs and sides, and ebony fretboards. These materials will ensure your instrument has the best sound quality possible.

2. Action:

The action of a classical guitar is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. You want to find a guitar with low action so it's easy to play.

3. Tone:

Of course, you should also consider the tone of the guitar. If you're looking for a bright sound, look for guitars with spruce tops and mahogany backs. If you're looking for a darker sound, look for guitars with cedar tops and rosewood backs.

4. Playability:

You want to make sure the classical guitar is comfortable in your hands and easy to play. Make sure it has comfortable neck profiles and fretboard edges so you can easily reach all of the notes.

5. Budget:

Finally, you should consider your budget. It's easy to get carried away when shopping for a new guitar, so make sure to set a limit and stick to it.


Final words

In conclusion, finding a good classical guitar does not have to come at an exorbitant price tag. Each of these ten classical guitars provide excellent sound quality, performance and construction. Whether you are just starting out on the instrument or looking for an upgrade, this guide presents a range of options that suit both advanced and novice players.

Not only do they look great, but they also make it possible to explore the wide range of classical pieces written over the last couple centuries with ease and enjoyment. Investing in any one of these music maker be sure to invest your money into a sound investment that will bring you joy every time you pick up your instrument!


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