Published on this page in the GuitarFella archive — what our editors chose at the time, not a lab test.
Last Updated: May-04-2018
In this latest review of our sub-$500 classical chart, we were pleased to see our previous choices stood up to scrutiny! So, instead of removing any models, we simply expanded the list to include two more - the new Cordoba F7 and the return of the Alvarez AC65HCE.
With $500 in your pocket the classical guitar world really is your oyster! While you’re still a few hundred dollars off
the true premium market, in this category things are starting to feel more high-end.
Woods get better, playability increases, and electronics – when included – are more advanced. You can find yourself with a performance-worthy instrument that could last a lifetime, if looked after.
On this page, we’ve searched through
the current classical guitar market to produce a short chart that represents some of the best choices, whatever your style. Whether a keen flamenco player, classical maestro, or an electric guitarist making the move to classical guitar, there’s likely to be a model to suit you.
Top 7 Classical Guitars Under $500:
What to Look for in a Classical Guitar Under $500?
Tradition is a word we use a lot when talking about classical guitars, but there’s a reason. Whether you’re purchasing a classical guitar worth $100 or $1,000, they all demonstrate traditional features that are rarely tinkered with – wide necks and slotted headstocks for example.
However, as we approach the higher end of affordable, the guitars in this $500 price range should all justify their substantial price tags by showing good quality as standard – not the exception.
Naturally, the materials, construction, and electronics will differ from manufacturer to manufacturer, but general design tends not to stray too far from the norm. As a classical instrument, the majority of classical guitars will still show the traditional non-cutaway design, although cutaway versions are readily available for those players who explore the highest registers.
Some brands also add elegant binding and adventurous rosettes to their models, which nod to the fact that these are instruments of higher quality and craftsmanship than the entry-level market.
While cedar, spruce, mahogany and rosewood all still dominate, these woods will be slightly better quality in this mid-level range, and a solid top is now a necessary inclusion, although laminated back and sides are still standard.
Electronics on these guitars also tend to be slightly more advanced, with systems including more versatile preamps – 3-band EQ as standard, with phase switches and built-in digital tuners. This all results in a guitar worthy of recording or stage performances, whether miking up or plugging directly into an amp.
Ultimately, guitars in this range offer guitarists a taste of premium, and an instrument they want to look after, and pick up and play again and again.
Buying Used or New?
You can certainly pick up a bargain when buying a used guitar. Someone who has spent $1,000 on a Cordoba needs to get rid of it to free up cash – that’s where you step in and take it off his hands for half the price! Just like buying new, having $500 in the secondhand market will grant you a myriad of options and you can really find some bargains.
Just make sure you are careful and avoid the pitfalls of pre-owned. Buy from a reputable online store or a local guitar retailer, who can offer you a guarantee and returns policy, should something go wrong or you change your mind (even in this range it happens). Avoid flea markets or garage sales, unless you can thoroughly test the guitar (though an amp if it’s an electro-acoustic) and are 100% confident it’s not faulty or – even worse – a fake!
The Final Word
If you do have half a grand to spend on a classical guitar, then congratulations – you have access to hundreds of quality models. Whether you spend the full amount on a guitar, or a portion on a guitar and a portion on an amp, your options are endless.
Be sure to keep checking back, as we often refresh our charts and something you find here this week might be in the
under $300 category page next week!