For the aspiring guitarist, one of the first and most important decisions is choosing the right type of guitar. While there are many types of guitars available, two of the most popular for beginners are the classical guitar and the acoustic steel-string guitar. At first glance, they may appear quite similar—both have a hollow wooden body, a soundhole, and six strings.
However, beneath the surface, these two instruments have significant differences in construction, sound, playing technique, and musical application. Understanding these differences is essential for making an informed choice that aligns with your musical goals and personal preferences. This guide will provide a comprehensive comparison of the classical guitar and the acoustic guitar, helping you to choose the instrument that is right for you.
Construction and Materials
The most fundamental difference between the two instruments lies in their construction and the materials used.
Classical Guitar
The classical guitar has a lighter, more delicate build. The body is typically smaller and shallower than an acoustic steel-string guitar. The top (soundboard) is usually made of spruce or cedar, and the back and sides are often made of rosewood or mahogany. The neck is wider and flatter, and it joins the body at the 12th fret. Most importantly, the classical guitar uses nylon strings. The three treble strings (the high E, B, and G) are made of a single strand of nylon, while the three bass strings (the low E, A, and D) have a nylon core wrapped in metal wire.
Acoustic Steel-String Guitar
The acoustic steel-string guitar (often simply called an “acoustic guitar”) has a more robust and heavier construction. The body is typically larger and deeper, designed to project a louder sound. The top is usually made of spruce, and the back and sides can be made of a variety of woods, including mahogany, rosewood, maple, and walnut. The neck is narrower and has a slight curve (radius), and it joins the body at the 14th fret, giving the player easier access to the higher frets. As the name suggests, this guitar uses steel strings, which are much thinner and under much higher tension than nylon strings.
Sound and Tone
The choice of strings has a profound impact on the sound of each instrument.
Classical Guitar
The nylon strings of the classical guitar produce a warm, mellow, and rounded tone. The sound is softer and less bright than a steel-string guitar, with a gentle attack and a smooth sustain. This tone is ideal for classical music, flamenco, bossa nova, and other styles that emphasize melody, harmony, and fingerstyle playing.
Acoustic Steel-String Guitar
The steel strings of the acoustic guitar produce a bright, loud, and resonant tone. The sound has a sharp attack and a long, ringing sustain. This tone is well-suited for folk, country, rock, pop, and bluegrass, where the guitar often needs to cut through a mix of other instruments or provide rhythmic accompaniment with strumming.
Playing Technique and Feel
The physical differences between the two guitars also affect how they are played.
Classical Guitar
Classical guitars are almost always played with the fingers (fingerstyle), rather than with a pick. The wider neck provides more space between the strings, making it easier to pluck individual strings with precision. The nylon strings are softer and easier on the fingers, which is a significant advantage for beginners who have not yet developed calluses. The classical playing position typically involves resting the guitar on the left leg (for right-handed players) with the neck elevated at an angle.
Acoustic Steel-String Guitar
Acoustic guitars can be played with either a pick (flatpicking) or with the fingers (fingerpicking). The narrower neck and the higher string tension make it easier to play barre chords and to strum with a pick. However, the steel strings are much harder on the fingers, and beginners will often experience some discomfort until they develop calluses. The acoustic guitar is typically played with the instrument resting on the right leg (for right-handed players).
Musical Styles and Applications
Classical Guitar
As the name suggests, the classical guitar is the instrument of choice for classical music. It is used to perform the works of composers like Bach, Sor, Tárrega, and Villa-Lobos. It is also the primary instrument for flamenco music and is widely used in Latin American genres like bossa nova and samba.
Acoustic Steel-String Guitar
The acoustic steel-string guitar is incredibly versatile and is used in a vast array of musical styles, including folk, country, rock, pop, blues, bluegrass, and singer-songwriter music. It is the go-to instrument for campfire sing-alongs, open mic nights, and acoustic performances.
Which Guitar Should You Choose?
The best guitar for you depends on your musical interests and physical comfort.
Choose a Classical Guitar if:
- You are interested in classical music, flamenco, or Latin American styles.
- You prefer fingerstyle playing and want to focus on melody and harmony.
- You want an instrument that is easier on the fingers, especially as a beginner.
- You appreciate a warm, mellow tone.
Choose an Acoustic Steel-String Guitar if:
- You are interested in folk, rock, country, pop, or blues.
- You want to strum chords and sing along, or play with a pick.
- You want a louder, brighter sound that can cut through a mix.
- You don’t mind the initial discomfort of steel strings while building calluses.
Conclusion
Both the classical guitar and the acoustic steel-string guitar are beautiful and expressive instruments, each with its own unique character. There is no “better” choice—only the choice that is right for you. By understanding the differences in construction, sound, playing technique, and musical application, you can make an informed decision that will set you on the path to a lifetime of musical enjoyment. Whichever guitar you choose, the most important thing is to pick it up, start playing, and let the music flow.