Advice on Classical Guitars

BornIn84

Hi all,

I'm playing guitar rock/alternative for 14 years now.

i've decided to pick up classical guitar.

Does anyone have any advice on the guitar itself?

should i get full size? I will spend up to 300 for an electro classical.

Can i get a decent one at this price?

Any other advice would be appreciated.

thank you.

TroutMask

yes - get a full size unless you have really small arms/hands and a full size is too unwieldy. Some have shallower necks than others - might feel better coming off electric. 300 is not much so maybe used so you get a better axe? Spruce or cedar top is nice. I just spent the guts of 4000 on one, and that's entry level to the luthier realm. Strings matter: lower priced nylons can have intonation problems, polished strings are uniform. So called 'Hard Tension' strings will be weird coming off electric so go for Soft to Medium Tension strings. Check the intonation carefully and play chromatic scales up and down the neck to look for 'wolf notes' (they tend to show up in cheaper axes - sound like dog and will gradually wear you down over time). Check the neck carefully, and if buying used, tap the soundboard all over gently to check for loose braces. There should be a slight convex belly around the bridge, but nothing too drastic. Buy the book 'Pumping Nylon'

BornIn84

Thanks a lot TroutMask.

I might wait a month or two and save some extra and get one.

Can you recommend any teachers? I was looking at going to Waltons School of Music.

Thanks.

REgards,

eric

TroutMask

RIAM perhaps? Guitar classes/ensembles can be fun for getting into the technique.

BornIn84

cool. i'll check it out.

Do you rate Ortega guitars?