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Which Acoustic Guitar Is Better To Learn On - Classical Or Steel Strung?

By John King

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Published: 23Oct2011
Word count: 1132
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Many people decide to take up playing the guitar and decide on the safer option of purchasing an acoustic model rather than an electric solid body type. The only problem can be a lack of real understanding of the difference between a classical/ Spanish guitar and a steel strung acoustic. They are both acoustic but what is the best option for your needs?

Here I examine the differences between the 2 types.

Classical/ Spanish Guitar

As the nylon strings are quite a bit easier to push down on to the fretboard they are generally the preferred choice for children to learn on. These guitars also have less heavy bodies which again suits children. The manufacturing costs are comparatively low due to their mass production and versions are available for children as young as five. There is generally a good colour choice which also makes owning these instruments fun for children.

For adults, if you are interested in Spanish style or classical then these are obviously a good choice. Having said that, the softer nylon strings are a major advantage to anyone learning to play.

If you are keeping an eye on your budget, a nylon strung classical guitar is nearly always the cheaper option.

Steel Strung Acoustic Guitar

The body of a steel strung acoustic guitar is heavier and is built to withstand the higher tension of the steel strings. They are a popular choice with adults and children over the age of 12 as they are excellent for strumming and can be the preferred choice for playing popular music.

Nowadays even the more competitively priced versions are well put together. In the past poor quality building and cheap materials on the more budget versions could result in a warped neck or a rough fret job. This is not the case now as the quality across the board seems to be constantly improving. Having said that, it goes without saying that the quality of the tone-woods used in the construction of a guitar will improve with the cost of the instrument, and this will ultimately have an impact on the quality of the sound. So whilst playability is generally good even at the lower end, sound quality will be pretty basic.

Most steel strung versions come in the shape and size known as the Dreadnought which is quite a big beast that is often associated with Country and Western music. Some people may well prefer the smaller body of a folk style guitar which is a popular choice for smaller adults or a younger person. Many steel strung acoustics come with factory fitted guitar pickups allowing the sound to be amplified.

So there are the two main choices. Hopefully you will pick the perfect one for you.

The author works in the website design industry and is a keen guitar player. He lives in Surrey in the UK and is a regular visitor to the first class independent music store Ritz Music where he chooses from a wide range of guitars. Ritz Music have expanded and currently have a Putney music shop and a Richmond music shop

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