Finding a Classical Guitar

What do I need to know to properly search for a classical guitar? I need to get rid of one of my electrics and get a decent classical guitar.

I've been playing classical and flamenco on steel stringed guitars for a very long time...I owe it to myself to start using a nice nylon/catgut stringed classical guitar.

Any ideas for a Brand, model or price range? I'd like to spend less than $500.

I will be out in the field trying some out, but I'd love to know a little more about what I'm getting into beside the fact that one sounds good.


Thanks in advance if you can help!

posted by snsranch (4 comments total)

A couple years back I had an itch for a nylon string, and I ended up buying a scratch and dent 3/4 size Framus from Thomann. I absolutely love the thing and am really pleased with the sound, build quality, etc. I thought I'd at least replace the tuning machines, but the stock ones were good enough that I haven't had a need to. Cost me £35.
posted by dubold at 3:42 AM on May 27, 2013

I will be out in the field trying some out

Wow! So.....they can actually grow these things in the USA??! We have to buy them in shops in the UK. They're not fresh obviously - they tend to be very dried out and kinda woody. (sorry sns - couldn't resist pulling your leg on that one - no offence :-))
posted by Hoops McCann at 12:52 PM on May 27, 2013

Ya know, Hoops, had I any wood working skills I really could "harvest" up a guitar. Actually they should sell them in kits like model airplanes.

dubold, at around $100 that's very promising. I guess I'll just get out and start looking.

Thanks folks!
posted by snsranch at 3:55 PM on May 28, 2013

My dad has gotten three or four good ones over the years at flea markets for under $100. All of them were off-brand and made in Europe. I think you can probably get something reliably great on Craigslist for $300 or so as long as you can try before you buy.
posted by ignignokt at 7:24 PM on June 16, 2013