Introduction: A Foreword about the Best Classical Guitars Under $2000:
The classical guitar is a very old and traditional instrument that has changed a lot over the years. But one thing that has stayed the same is the fact that only highest-quality instruments are making it into the hands of performers. That is why today, we are reviewing only the highest-grade classical guitars available for 2000 USD or less. If you want to compare with some more budget options we have a buying guide here. Later on will take a look at what you need to consider when buying a high-end nylon-string guitar. Now, let’s dive in to our top 3 picks for the best classical guitars on the market:
QUICK RUNDOWN
If you are in a hurry here is a quick comparison:
#1 Cordoba GK Pro [Gipsy Kings Signature Model] Editor Rating Read Full Review |
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#2 Yamaha GC32C Editor Rating Read Full Review |
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#3 Takamine Pro Series 3 P3FCN FXC Editor Rating Read Full Review |
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Table of Contents
BEST CLASSICAL GUITARS UNDER $2000:
Overview:
Cordoba is one of the best classical guitar brands and the GK Pro [Gipsy Kings Signature Model] is a great representative of the brand. The GK Pro delicate, thinbody cutawaywhich makes it uniquely comfortable. The size and tonewoods combination used make up for a very outstanding sound that makes this guitar a very valuable instrument.
Info:
The GK Pro is a lightweight thinline classical guitar with a solid European spruce top and solid Spanish cypress back and sides. Other premium features include a Spanish cedar neck, ebony fingerboard, a 3-band EQ and built-in microphone
The guitar is crafted using traditional Spanish construction techniques and is one of the most affordable hand-crafted guitars ever created. The GK Pro [Gipsy Kings Signature Model] also comes with very good Corum Savarez strings.
Like mentioned, the guitar has a very unique sound. The modern features are easily embraced if you are a flamenco player, but classical guitarists might find those awkward. Be as it may, if you are ready to try out something new, the Cordoba GK Pro is a great instrument
For more about the Cordoba GK Pro, check out customer reviews on Amazon.
- Performance 98%
- Price to Value 92%
- Overall 95%
THINGS WE LIKED
- Unique wood combination
- High-quality strings
- Traditional crafting method
THINGS WE DIDN'T LIKE
- Might be too radical for traditional classical guitarists
Overview:
The GC32C is a very standardized classical guitar that will fit any classical guitarist perfectly. This guitar is a big step forward when compared to cheap Yamaha’s and is the pinnacle of their guitar crafting skills and technology.
Info:
If you want a classical guitar that would perfectly fit the definition and description of what a good classical guitar should be, look and feel like, then you are looking at your next instrument.
The Yamaha GC32C nylon string acoustic guitar’s front (cedar, also available as spruce), back (rosewood) and sides (rosewood) are all crafted with solid wood.
The neck uses African mahogany and the saddle is made out of bone. This whole setup is pretty standard and traditional. This guitar is made at Yamaha Music Craft in Japan and the result of the exquisite craftsmanship is a bright, responsive and sumptuous sound.
Although everything is as it should be, the guitar lacks a little bit of character. If you are searching for a standardized instrument that will last you through a gig, this instrument will not let you down.
For more about the Yamaha GC32C, check out customer reviews on Amazon.
- Performance 93%
- Price to Value 95%
- Overall 90%
THINGS WE LIKED
- Traditional wood combination
- Decent price
- Great craftsmanship
THINGS WE DIDN'T LIKE
- Lacks unique or modern features
Overview:
This is a great classical guitar with many modern features such as the Cool Tube electronics and an immaculate fretwork that makes other models in this price range look cheap and unrefined. This is the ideal blend of futuristic concepts and traditional features for the modern classical guitarist.
Info:
This unique guitar features traditional Spanish design and materials blended with a number of state-of-the-art innovations.
The Takamine Pro Series 3 P3FCN features a solid Cedar top that makes this guitar very responsive and dynamic, as well as solid sapele back and mahogony neck for a brilliant and rich classical tone.
The CT4B II preamp system gets its name from the fact that tube runs at only two or three degrees above ambient, so there is no concern over the delicate tone woods being affected by radiant heat. Some of the system features are a built-in tuner, volume control and three-band EQ section which can cut or boost bass, mids and treble frequencies.
It’s very hard to find fault with this great instrument. The only thing that could potentially be annoying to some players might be the weight. All in all, this is an amazing instrument that offers incredible value for a moderate price.
For more about the Takamine Pro Series P3FCN, check out customer reviews on Amazon.
- Performance 92%
- Price to Value 90%
- Overall 89%
THINGS WE LIKED
- High value
- Great sound
- Very modern
- Traditional woods
THINGS WE DIDN'T LIKE
- Somewhat narrow neck that can be uncomfortable for guitarists with bigger hands
THINGS TO KNOW:
Features of a good classical guitar:
If we are talking about classical guitars, we are talking about sound woods.
In electric instruments, the quality and kind of wood used can influence the sound slightly, but on an acoustic instrument, the wood plays the most important role behind proper technique and skill.
The woods used will impact tuning stability, response, the color of the tone and the amount of sustain.
The tuning stability and overall performance of the instrument will also be influenced by the “hardware” – the tuners, nut and bridge. These can also influence the tone of your instrument to a certain degree.
We find that a player who wants to stand out needs to use an instrument that stands out, as well. That is why looking at certain unique details can make the difference, both when performing pieces composed by others, and when producing or recording your own musical compositions.
If you are going to spend more than a thousand bucks on an instrument, be careful to make the right choice. The good thing is that expensive instruments don’t lose on value as much as cheaper ones, so even if you decide to check out a different brand or model, later on, you will be sure that you invested in something decent and reliable.
CONCLUSION
Depending on what you need, you might have to try out a few different guitars before settling down. No matter if you are a professional, a recording musician or a performer, you will have to explore different wood combinations and experiment with different tonal features.
Do you have a different classical guitar model that you would like to introduce to us? Tell us in the comments below which model you like the best!
