Published on this page in the GuitarFella archive — what our editors chose at the time, not a lab test.
Last Updated: May-04-2019
As we approached the summer, we made a few significant changes to this affordable classical chart. This included removing the Washburn C80S, then expanding the article to includea total of seven models. New additions comprised the Ovation Applause Balladeer AB24CII-CED, the J. Navarro NC-60 and the Takamine GC1 NAT.
Good news – these days, having $300 in your pocket grants you access to a
big market of classical guitars, many of which offer great value for money and a significant step up in terms of variety.
You’re still quite a way from premium, but as you move out of the super-budget zone, you’ll find the materials, playability and craftsmanship all start to improve.
If you are in the market for a new nylon-stringed guitar in this under $300 range, you’ve come to the right page, as we have searched high and low for a selection of the best classical guitars on offer, which we’ve highlighted below.
Top 7 Classical Guitars Under $300:
What to Look for in a Classical Guitar Under $300?
Whether you’re shopping in the high end or the bargain bin, the general style of classical guitars rarely changes. Now and again you’ll see something a little different, but – especially in this sub-$300 region – there won’t be too many surprises when it comes to design. If you do want something a little different, Ibanez specialize in colored guitars, so be sure to check out their GA Series.
The quality of craftsmanship will be a little better in this price range too, even though the guitars will still be mass-produced and will still be made in Asia. Brands including Cordoba, Lucero, Yamaha, Washburn, and the aforementioned Ibanez all dominate this price range, and the majority of their models tend to impress.
As for materials, there’s nothing too different to what you would find in the budget range, with familiar woods such as cedar, spruce and mahogany all well-represented, while you will also see a couple of more exotic woods such as bubinga used on back and sides (
Lucero’s LC230S is a fine example of this wood in action).
In this price range, you find more use of solid woods for tops, although laminates will still be the norm for back and sides. This mix leads to a guitar with better tone and bigger projection.
Buying an Electro-Acoustic Classical?
On the topic of projection, one thing you see more of as you move up into the $200-$300 category is electro-acoustic classical guitars, which allow you to plug the guitar into an amplifier and… well, amplify your sound.
The prime question you need to ask yourself is: do I need an electro-acoustic?
If you are planning to plug into an amp to play on stage, be it solo, with a group or an orchestra, then an electro-acoustic is a great idea. The same goes for recording. It’s the most convenient way to amplify your sound – instead of having to mike up the guitar – and allows you to shape your tone directly from the guitar. The fact that many preamps come with built-in tuners is another plus.
However, unless you are planning to record or perform – and especially if you are a beginner – we suggest going for a plain acoustic model. You tend to get more guitar for your money buying this way, because you aren’t paying for the electronics.
So, a $300 classical guitar will probably be better quality and smoother to play than a $300 classical that’s loaded with electronics (in theory at least). If you have your heart set on an electro-acoustic, don’t let us deter you – you can find some excellent models in this sub-$300 category.
The Final Word
As you’ve seen, it’s not difficult to find a quality, highly playable classical guitar with a good sound in this sub-$300 price range. It’s quite simple in fact!
The five classical guitars we’ve highlighted are not a comprehensive list, but go a long way in giving you a snapshot of the best guitars on the market for your money – whether plain acoustic or something with electronics.
Whatever you choose, make sure to read reviews and watch videos of the guitars on your shortlist before you buy. Do your research and find something that fits, and then enjoy the guitar!