Choosing Your First Guitar
- Sezin KIZILTAN
- Dec 7, 2024
- 3 min read
*This article was written by a human.
Starting your guitar journey is exciting, and choosing the right type of guitar depends on the student height.
Classical Guitar
Perfect for: Fingerstyle, classical, or softer, melodic music.
Why you’ll love it: Nylon strings are easier on your fingers, especially if you’re just starting. The wider neck gives your fingers more space, making it great for learning chords and scales.
Size:
When it comes to picking out your first guitar, the most important thing you need to keep in mind it how to choose depending on the student height.

Note: If you are in between sizes, it is always a good idea to size up!
Guitar Recommendations
Classical Guitars
4/4 (Full Size) Classical Guitars
Yamaha 6 String Beginner Scale Classical Guitar C40II
$164.89

The Yamaha C40II is a popular choice for beginners. It offers quality construction and playability at an affordable price.
Pros
Playability: The nylon strings are gentle on the fingers, making it ideal for beginners.
Build Quality: Features a laminated spruce top and meranti back and sides, providing durability and a pleasant tone.
Tuning Stability: Equipped with quality tuning pegs that maintain tuning well, even with frequent play.
Cons
Potential Fret Issues: It has slightly sharp fret ends, which might require alteration for better comfort.
Overall, the Yamaha C40II offers a balanced combination of comfort, durability, and sound quality.
Ortega Guitars 6 String Family Series (R122)
$209

The Ortega R122 is a full-size classical guitar from Ortega's Family Series which is a great alternative to Yamaha.
Pros:
Quality Materials: The guitar features a cedar top paired with sapele back and sides, delivering a warm and balanced tone.
Comfortable Playability: It has a mahogany neck and walnut fretboard. It provides comfort when playing.
Gig Bag: This option comes with a durable gig bag, which protects the instrument.
Cons:
Tuning: This instrument has a basic tuning machine, which can require frequent tuning.
In summary, the Ortega R122 is a well-crafted classical guitar that provides good value for beginners and intermediate players.
1/2 Size Classical Guitars
Yamaha CGS102A Half-Size Classical Guitar
$137.19

The Yamaha CGS102A is a 1/2-size classical guitar tailored for young learners.
Pros:
Child-Friendly Dimensions: Designed for children aged 6-8, its smaller size facilitates comfortable play and easier finger positioning.
Quality Construction: It has a spruce top and meranti back and sides, delivering a balanced tone.
Cons:
Limited Tonal Range: As a beginner's instrument, it may not offer the depth and richness found in full-sized, higher-end guitars.
Potential Intonation Issues: It can cause tuning inconsistencies.
In summary, the Yamaha CGS102A serves as a solid entry-level guitar for young students.
Ortega Guitars 6 String Family Series (R122)
$209

Just like it's full-size version, 1/2 of the same instrument is a great option
Pros:
Quality Materials: The guitar features a cedar top paired with sapele back and sides, delivering a warm and balanced tone.
Comfortable Playability: It has a mahogany neck and walnut fretboard. It provides comfort when playing.
Gig Bag: This option comes with a durable gig bag, which protects the instrument.
Cons:
Tuning: This instrument has a basic tuning machine, which can require frequent tuning.
In summary, the Ortega R122 is a well-crafted classical guitar that provides good value for beginners and intermediate players.
3/4 Size Classical Guitars
Cordoba C1M 3/4 Small Body Acoustic
$169.99

The Córdoba Protégé C1M 3/4 is a compact classical guitar designed for young learners and players with smaller hands.
Pros:
Comfortable Size: The 3/4 scale is ideal for children or individuals with smaller hands.
Quality Materials: It has a spruce top with mahogany back and sides, delivering a balanced and resonant tone.
Cons:
Tuning Stability: Equipped with standard tuning machines, which may require regular adjustments to maintain optimal tuning stability.
In summary, the Córdoba Protégé C1M 3/4 is a great instrument that serves as an excellent entry point for beginners.
Yamaha Student Series CGS103
$145.49

Pros:
Perfect for Beginners: The 3/4 size is ideal for kids or players with smaller hands, offering great comfort.
Good Build Quality: Spruce top and meranti back and sides provide a warm, clear tone.
Beginner-Friendly Strings: Nylon strings are easy on the fingers, making it great for first-timers.
Summary: A well-crafted, comfortable option for young learners or beginners seeking a manageable guitar.
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