Is this a good classical guitar?

Question

Good classical guitar for intermediate player, Finger picking style.
http://www.mallmusic.com.au/pages/mod.php?mod=cart&op=details&viewitem=GM6447

I need a good classical guitar for around $200 to $500 (AUS MONEYS) Any ideas on brand and what not?

Answer 1

Ibanez is an alright brand. However, when looking for a classical guitar, I much prefer any models from Spain or Argentina. Also, I noticed that the Ibanez you're looking at is an acoustic-electric. I have a Godin acoustic-electric nylon guitar with a cutaway and let me tell you, they do not get very loud; the acoustics of the body sound very artificial and...well, to put it blatantly, their sound has no BALLS, you can forget about it filling a whole recital hall. The wood also effects the guitar greatly (more than you would expect). I personally prefer spruce and cedar. You would benefit a whole lot more with getting a full body nylon.

Answer 2

Classical guitars are a matter of taste. All of them in that price range will lack bass response and depth. Go to any guitar store, play the $500 versus $2500 ones and you will know exactly what I mean immediately.



All the major makers put out classical guitars in that price range that are fine for intermediates or beginners. So, find one you like, bang away on it. See if it feels and sounds good to you (its an intimate tone, so you want it to sound great to you). Then make sure its well made, no serious flaws, no warpage of neck, each fret plays clean, etc. Then, make sure it stays in tune, bang on it some, and make sure.



You don't want a drifty guitar that doesn't stay in tune or has major intonation problems as you move up the neck (all in this price range will have some intonation problems, i.e. the Open E string plays perfectly in tune but not when you play E at the 12th fret, for example, its not a perfect E).

Answer 3

Ibanez makes some fine instruments. I can let the cutaway body slide if you play high on the neck, but there should be no reason to have electronics built in to a Classical guitar.



I'd save some money and get the GA5 http://www.ibanez.com/AcousticGuitars/model-GA5

Answer 4

You should go your local guitar store and try some out. It's the only want to tell. Everyone has a different of what a "good" guitar is. It's all down to personal preference.