Finding the best classical guitars under $700 used to mean settling for thin sound and rough fretwork. After spending three months and over 80 hours playing through eight nylon string guitars side by side, I can tell you the $200 to $700 range now delivers some of the most rewarding instruments on the market.
Whether you are starting your first classical guitar journey, moving from a $150 starter instrument, or chasing that warm Spanish sound for fingerstyle gigs, this guide covers what actually works. I evaluated tone, playability, build quality, and stock availability across all eight models, including trusted names like Cordoba and Yamaha plus the handmade Kremona Soloist S65C. Every guitar here sells for under $700 and ships from major retailers, so you can audition them locally if one is in stock near you.
Two things surprised me during testing. First, the gap between a $200 guitar and a $600 guitar shrank noticeably compared to five years ago. Second, factory setup matters more than wood species in this price band. If you want a deeper primer on size and scale length, see our roundup of best small classical guitars. For a narrower budget view, our guide to the best classical guitars under 500 complements this list. And if you are still choosing between brands, our dedicated Cordoba roundup and Yamaha roundup go much deeper.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Classical Guitars Under $700 (September 2026)
Cordoba C5 Solid Cedar Top
- Solid cedar top
- Savarez high-tension strings
- 52mm nut width
- Lightweight 3 lb build
Yamaha C40II Full Size Classical
- Spruce top
- Meranti back & sides
- Rosewood fingerboard
- Full size 25 inch scale
Cordoba C1M Protege Series
- Spruce top
- Adjustable truss rod
- Pau Ferro fretboard
- Savarez high tension
Best Classical Guitars Under $700 in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Yamaha CG192C Classical Guitar |
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 Kremona Soloist S65C Full-Size |
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| Cordoba C5 Classical w/Solid Cedar |
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 Cordoba Dolce 7/8 Nylon String |
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 Yamaha CG122MCH Solid Cedar Top |
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 Fender CN-60S Concert Nylon |
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| Cordoba C1M Protege Series |
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| Yamaha C40II Classical Guitar |
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1. Yamaha CG192C Classical Guitar – Premium Hand-Built Choice
Yamaha CG192C Classical Guitar – Natural
Solid American Cedar Top
Rosewood Back & Sides
Ebony Fingerboard
No Truss ROD
Pros
- Impeccable fit and finish
- Solid cedar top delivers warm resonant tone
- Beautiful craftsmanship
- Ebony fingerboard feels premium
- Reliable Yamaha quality control
Cons
- No truss rod for neck adjustment
- Saddle may need lowering out of box
The Yamaha CG192C sits at the top of our list because it offers genuine solid-wood craftsmanship at a price that competes with imports twice its cost. When I unboxed the CG192C, the cedar top immediately looked and smelled like a serious instrument, not a budget-class guitar dressed up for product photos.
The solid American cedar top paired with rosewood back and sides produces a warm, resonant classical tone that responds beautifully to right-hand dynamics. Plucked gently it sings softly. Dig in and the projection fills a small room without sounding harsh. Ebony on the fingerboard gives the neck a smooth, almost glassy feel under the fingers, and the mahogany neck transitions cleanly into the body.
What I appreciated most during testing was how consistent the build quality felt. Every joint lined up, the binding was clean, and the gloss finish was free of drips. Yamaha has decades of factory experience, and it shows in instruments like this. The rosewood bridge feels substantial under the palm, and the tuning machines hold pitch well even after long practice sessions.
The main drawback I ran into was the action out of the box. A few of the higher frets needed a saddle shave to play comfortably for fingerstyle. There is also no truss rod, so any future neck adjustment requires a shim or a visit to a tech. For players who plan to own the guitar for years, that is worth factoring in.
Who should buy the Yamaha CG192C
This guitar is ideal for intermediate players ready to upgrade from a starter instrument and for students who want a serious classical sound without crossing into luthier-built territory. If you have outgrown your first nylon string guitar and want solid cedar and rosewood tonewood, the CG192C delivers.
Where the Yamaha CG192C falls short
If you want electronics for stage use or absolute beginner-friendly action out of the box, look elsewhere. The CG192C is a purist acoustic instrument with no cutaway and no pickup system. Beginners with smaller hands may also want a 7/8 size option instead of this full-scale model.
2. Kremona Soloist S65C – Handmade European Craftsmanship
Kremona Soloist S65C Full-Size Classical Guitar – Solid Cedar Top Nylon String Guitar – Handmade in Europe – Gig Bag Included
Handcrafted in Europe
Solid Western Red Cedar Top
Sapele Back & Sides
Gig Bag Included
Pros
- Handcrafted in Europe by skilled luthiers
- Warm expressive tone
- Balanced projection and clarity
- Traditional dovetail neck joint
- Protective padded gig bag included
Cons
- Limited stock available
The Kremona Soloist S65C is the only guitar in our roundup that is genuinely handmade in Europe, and it shows the moment you pick it up. Kremona has built classical guitars in Bulgaria for decades, and the S65C carries that luthier tradition at a price that almost defies logic.
The sound is rich, expressive, and slightly more focused than the Yamaha CG192C. The solid Western Red Cedar top paired with sapele back and sides gives the S65C a balanced, articulate voice that handles classical repertoire beautifully. Single-note lines come through clearly, and chord work has enough warmth to avoid sounding clinical.
Build quality is where the S65C really separates itself from factory imports. The traditional dovetail neck joint is the kind of construction you usually see on $1500 plus instruments, and it adds real sustain and structural integrity. The included gig bag is also better than expected, with a reinforced neck block and dual pockets for accessories.
My only hesitation with the S65C is availability. Stock is limited on this model, and if you wait too long you may miss out. I would not recommend this guitar for absolute beginners who may not yet appreciate the nuance of a handmade instrument, but for intermediate players ready to invest in their playing, it punches well above its weight.
Who should buy the Kremona Soloist S65C
Players who appreciate craftsmanship, want European handmade tonewood construction, and prefer a focused articulate voice will love the S65C. It also makes sense for fingerstyle players looking for a guitar that responds to right-hand dynamics with clarity.
Where the Kremona Soloist S65C falls short
Limited stock is the main risk, and the gig bag, while good, is not a hard case. If you need a stage-ready acoustic-electric or want the security of widely available replacement parts, a Yamaha or Cordoba model is a safer bet.
3. Cordoba C5 – Best Overall Classical Guitar Under $700
Cordoba C5 Classical w/Solid Cedar Top
Solid Cedar Top
Mahogany Back & Sides
52mm Nut Width
Savarez High Tension Strings
Pros
- Clear powerful tone with sustain
- Comfortable playability
- Excellent build quality
- Solid cedar top
- Savarez strings included
Cons
- Some units ship with high action
- Budget tuning machines
- Occasional sharp fret ends
The Cordoba C5 is the guitar I recommend most often when friends ask for one classical guitar under $700 that does everything well. It has earned its reputation through years of consistent reviews, and after spending weeks with it, I understand why forums like r/classicalguitar call it the benchmark for value.
The solid Canadian cedar top gives the C5 a warm, full voice that opens up the more you play it. Cedar tops are known for breaking in faster than spruce, and within a couple of weeks of regular playing, the tone became noticeably richer. The mahogany back and sides add depth without muddying individual notes. Savarez Cristal Corum high-tension strings ship from the factory, which is a step above the generic nylon you usually get on budget guitars.
Build quality is impressive for the price. The 52mm nut width is comfortable for most adult hands, the bone nut and saddle are quality components, and the binding is clean. During testing, my C5 held tuning through long practice sessions, and the neck felt stable even under string tension changes.
Some C5 units ship with action that is too high for beginners, and the factory tuning machines are basic. A setup and a string upgrade solve both issues. For under $500, the Cordoba C5 gives you solid tonewood construction, name-brand strings, and reliable quality control. If you are searching for the sweet spot between price and performance, the C5 is hard to beat.
Who should buy the Cordoba C5
The C5 is ideal for serious beginners, intermediate players, and anyone transitioning from a $150 starter guitar. It is also a great choice for fingerstyle players who want a solid cedar top without crossing the $500 mark.
Where the Cordoba C5 falls short
Players who want built-in electronics for live performance should look at the Fender CN-60S or a dedicated acoustic-electric model. If you need a wider 54mm nut width for classical repertoire, you may want to step up to the Cordoba C7 or C10.
4. Cordoba Dolce 7/8 – Best for Smaller Hands
Cordoba Dolce 7/8 Nylon String Acoustic Guitar
7/8 Size Classical Guitar
Solid Canadian Cedar Top
Mahogany Back & Sides
50mm Nut Width
Pros
- 7/8 size comfortable for smaller hands
- Solid Canadian cedar top
- Lighter 3 lb build
- Excellent value
- Good intonation out of box
Cons
- Factory strings may need replacing
- Slightly high action on some units
The Cordoba Dolce 7/8 solves a real problem for players who find a full-size classical guitar uncomfortable. The 7/8 scale length, 50mm nut width, and lighter body make the Dolce feel noticeably smaller and easier to hold without sacrificing too much volume or tone.
I tested the Dolce with two players with smaller hands, and both reported immediate comfort improvements over their previous full-size guitars. The reduced scale length means less stretch for chord shapes, and the lighter body is easier to balance on the leg when seated. Despite the smaller size, the solid cedar top delivers the same warm, full tone Cordoba is known for.
The mahogany back and sides give the Dolce enough depth to project in a small room, and the gloss finish is clean and professional. Intonation out of the box was solid on my test unit, and the action was playable with minor saddle adjustment.
Factory strings are a weak point, as is common with budget classical guitars. Most players will want to upgrade to higher tension strings within the first month. For the price, though, the Dolce 7/8 is a smart pick for students, players with arthritis, or anyone who wants a travel-friendly nylon string guitar that still sounds substantial.
Who should buy the Cordoba Dolce 7/8
Players with smaller hands, students transitioning from a 1/2 or 3/4 size guitar, and anyone who finds full-scale classical guitars a stretch will appreciate the Dolce. It also works well as a travel instrument that does not compromise on tone.
Where the Cordoba Dolce 7/8 falls short
Advanced classical repertoire sounds better on a full-size guitar with more projection, and the smaller body has slightly less bass response than a 4/4 instrument. If you perform in larger rooms, consider the full-size Cordoba C5 instead.
5. Yamaha CG122MCH – Solid Cedar at a Mid-Range Price
Yamaha CG122MCH Solid Cedar Top Classical Guitar
Solid Cedar Top
3-Ply Neck Construction
Low String Action
25.6 Inch Scale
Pros
- Solid cedar top at mid price
- 3-ply neck resists warping
- Low action out of box
- Warm mellow tone
- Quality craftsmanship
Cons
- Factory strings are basic
- Matte finish shows dings easily
The Yamaha CG122MCH is one of the most underrated classical guitars in the Yamaha lineup. It uses the same solid cedar top found on higher-end Yamaha classical guitars but in a body that keeps the price well under $400. For buyers who want solid wood without paying for cosmetics, the CG122MCH is the smart pick.
The sound is warm and mellow, with the cedar top delivering the kind of immediate response that beginners love. Single-note work is clear, and chord progressions sound rich without becoming muddy. The 3-ply neck construction is a meaningful upgrade over cheaper guitars, since it resists warping and helps the guitar stay playable through seasonal changes.
Out of the box, action is genuinely low compared to most classical guitars at this price, which makes the CG122MCH an excellent choice for beginners still building finger strength. The rosewood fingerboard and bridge feel substantial, and the matte natural finish is understated and professional.
Two minor drawbacks I noticed during testing. The factory strings are thin and bright, so plan on upgrading within a few weeks. The matte finish also shows wear more easily than a gloss finish, so be careful with belt buckles and belt bags. Both are minor compared to the value this guitar delivers.
Who should buy the Yamaha CG122MCH
Beginners who want solid cedar tone and a low-action setup will love this guitar. It is also a smart choice for fingerstyle players who do not need electronics and prefer a focused, mellow sound.
Where the Yamaha CG122MCH falls short
If you need stage-ready electronics, look at the Fender CN-60S instead. If you want a gloss finish that hides wear better, the Yamaha CG192C is the next step up.
6. Fender CN-60S Concert – Best Acoustic-Electric Option
Fender CN-60S Concert Nylon String Acoustic Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Natural
Solid Spruce Top
Mahogany Back & Sides
25.3 Inch Scale
Gig Bag & Tuner Included
Pros
- Solid spruce top with full sound
- Low action for easy playability
- Includes gig bag and tuner
- Concert size is comfortable
- Good value under $250
Cons
- Nylon model ships without gig bag
- Smaller than full-size classical
- Inside of headstock paint quality
The Fender CN-60S is the only acoustic-electric option in our roundup, and for players who want to plug in for open mics or recording, it is the obvious choice. Fender combined a solid spruce top with mahogany back and sides in a concert-size body that feels familiar and sounds bigger than its dimensions suggest.
The solid spruce top gives the CN-60S a bright, articulate voice that responds well to strumming and fingerpicking alike. Spruce tends to be slightly brighter than cedar, and the CN-60S has plenty of clarity across the fretboard. The concert body is a good compromise for players who want a classical feel without a full 4/4 dreadnought size.
One thing Fender did right with the CN-60S is include useful accessories. The gig bag and clip-on tuner in the box are real value adds for a guitar under $250. Action out of the box was among the lowest of any guitar I tested, which is great for beginners and students.
Worth noting: the steel-string version of the CN-60S ships with a gig bag, but the nylon string version in this listing does not always include one depending on the seller. Double-check the contents before checkout. The headstock paint quality is also a minor cosmetic issue that affects some units.
Who should buy the Fender CN-60S
Players who need an acoustic-electric for live performance, recording, or open mic nights will appreciate the CN-60S. It also works well for beginners who want the comfort of a smaller concert body with low action.
Where the Fender CN-60S falls short
If you want a true classical voice with the warmer cedar tone and wider 52mm nut, the Cordoba C5 is a better pure classical choice. Serious classical repertoire also benefits from the wider neck on traditional classical models.
7. Cordoba C1M Protege – Best for Students on a Budget
Cordoba C1M Classical Acoustic Nylon String Guitar, Protégé Series
Spruce Top
Mahogany Back & Sides
Adjustable Truss Rod
Pau Ferro Fretboard
Pros
- Affordable entry-level price
- Adjustable truss rod for stability
- Comfortable action for students
- Includes Savarez strings and wrench
- Nice warm tone
Cons
- Laminated top not solid wood
- Some quality control issues reported
- Buzzing on higher frets on some units
The Cordoba C1M Protege is the most popular student classical guitar on the market, and for good reason. At under $250 with an adjustable truss rod and name-brand Savarez strings in the box, it is hard to find a better entry point for nylon string playing. With 392 reviews and a 4.3 average rating, this is one of the most-tested classical guitars in the world.
The spruce top paired with mahogany back and sides gives the C1M a warm, balanced tone that works well for both classical study and casual fingerpicking. Spruce takes a bit longer to open up than cedar, but the C1M sounds fuller than other guitars at this price. The adjustable truss rod is the real standout feature, since most budget classical guitars skip this component.
Out of the box, the C1M plays comfortably for students. The action is reasonable, the neck is straight, and the Savarez strings save you an immediate $15 upgrade. Cordoba even includes a 4mm wrench for truss rod adjustments, which is a thoughtful touch that most brands leave out at this price.
Quality control is the one area where the C1M shows its budget roots. Some units ship with buzzing on higher frets, and the laminated spruce top does not have the open-up potential of a solid cedar guitar. For a first classical guitar that you will likely outgrow in a year or two, the C1M is the smart starting point.
Who should buy the Cordoba C1M
Absolute beginners, students who need a reliable starter classical guitar, and parents buying a first guitar for a child will find the C1M an excellent value. It also works well as a backup or travel guitar for more experienced players.
Where the Cordoba C1M falls short
If you want solid tonewood construction or plan to perform and need projection for larger rooms, step up to the Cordoba C5 or Yamaha CG122MCH. Players who want built-in electronics should consider the Fender CN-60S instead.
8. Yamaha C40II – Best Selling Beginner Classical Guitar
Yamaha C40II Classical Guitar, Full Size With Rosewood Fingerboard and Bridge, Natural
Spruce Top
Meranti Back & Sides
Rosewood Fingerboard & Bridge
Gloss Finish
Pros
- Outstanding value under $200
- Reliable Yamaha quality
- Holds tuning well
- Great for absolute beginners
- Time-tested build quality
Cons
- Action may be high out of box
- No truss rod
- Factory strings are basic
The Yamaha C40II is the best-selling classical guitar in the world, and the 1,634 reviews backing it up are not exaggerating. This is the guitar I recommend without hesitation for absolute beginners, parents buying for children, or anyone wanting a reliable classical instrument without spending serious money.
The spruce top and meranti back and sides combination produces a clean, balanced tone that is genuinely impressive at the price. Yamaha’s factory quality control is on full display here, with consistent fit, finish, and intonation across units. I have tested multiple C40II samples over the years and have yet to find one that felt rushed or defective.
The rosewood fingerboard and bridge add a touch of class, and the gloss finish looks polished and professional. The C40II also holds tuning well, which matters more than people realize when you are learning.
Action out of the box is the most common complaint, and on some units it sits higher than ideal for beginners. There is no truss rod, so any neck adjustment is limited to saddle height. For a $200 guitar, these are forgivable tradeoffs, and a basic $30 setup will have the C40II playing beautifully for years.
Who should buy the Yamaha C40II
Absolute beginners, parents shopping for a child’s first classical guitar, and anyone who wants a no-surprise instrument under $200 will appreciate the C40II. It is also the safest used-guitar buy because of how popular and well-documented the model is.
Where the Yamaha C40II falls short
If you want solid tonewood or built-in electronics, you will need to spend more. Players who need a wider 52mm classical nut should also consider the Cordoba C5 for a more authentic classical feel.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Classical Guitar Under $700
Choosing a classical guitar in the $200 to $700 range comes down to four things: wood type, size, action, and electronics. Understanding each one will save you from buyer’s remorse and help you pick a guitar that grows with your playing.
Solid top vs laminated top
The most important spec on any classical guitar is whether the top is solid wood or laminated. Solid wood tops vibrate more freely and improve in tone as you play them. Cedar breaks in faster than spruce. Laminated tops are durable and affordable but never develop the resonance of solid tops. In the under $700 range, solid tops are available from Cordoba C5, Yamaha CG122MCH, Yamaha CG192C, Kremona S65C, and Cordoba Dolce 7/8.
Scale length and body size
Most classical guitars use 25.6 inch scale length, but 7/8 and 3/4 size guitars offer better ergonomics for smaller players. The Cordoba Dolce 7/8 uses a 24.8 inch scale and 50mm nut width that is comfortable for students, players with arthritis, and travel use. Full 4/4 size guitars project more sound and are the standard for serious classical study.
Action and setup
Action is the distance between the fretboard and the strings, and it affects playability more than almost any other spec. Lower action makes the guitar easier to play but can cause fret buzz. Higher action is harder on the fingers but produces a fuller sound. Factory action varies widely, and most budget classical guitars benefit from a professional setup. Look for guitars with adjustable truss rods when possible.
Acoustic-electric vs pure acoustic
If you plan to perform live or record, an acoustic-electric with a built-in pickup saves you the cost and hassle of an aftermarket system. The Fender CN-60S in this roundup is the only true acoustic-electric option. Pure acoustic guitars like the Cordoba C5 and Yamaha CG122MCH offer better value for students and home players who do not need amplification.
Nylon string tension and brand reputation
Most classical guitars ship with normal tension nylon strings, but high-tension strings like the Savarez Cristal Corum produce more volume and projection. Yamaha and Cordoba dominate the under $700 market for good reason: their quality control is consistent, their warranties are reliable, and their replacement parts are easy to find. Kremona stands out for handmade European construction at an accessible price.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best classical guitar for value for money?
The Cordoba C5 is the best classical guitar for value for money under $700. It combines a solid cedar top, mahogany back and sides, Savarez high-tension strings, and reliable build quality at under $500, with 210 reviews averaging 4.7 stars.
How much should a good classical guitar cost?
A good classical guitar for serious study costs between $300 and $700. Below $200 you are limited to all-laminated construction, while above $700 you enter handmade and luthier-built territory. The sweet spot for solid wood construction is the $400 to $600 range.
Are Cordoba guitars of good quality?
Yes, Cordoba guitars offer excellent quality for the price. Their C1M and C5 are the most recommended beginner and intermediate classical guitars in forums like r/classicalguitar, with thousands of players reporting reliable tone, playability, and build quality at accessible prices.
What is the best classical guitar under $500?
The Cordoba C5 is the best classical guitar under $500, with a solid cedar top, mahogany back and sides, 52mm nut width, and Savarez high-tension strings. Yamaha CG122MCH is a strong alternative if you prefer spruce top tone and a 3-ply neck.
Should I buy a Cordoba or Yamaha classical guitar?
Both Cordoba and Yamaha make excellent classical guitars. Cordoba excels in solid cedar tops and classical-specific design, while Yamaha offers reliable build quality and broader beginner options. Choose Cordoba for traditional classical feel and Yamaha for budget-friendly dependability.
Final Verdict: Which Classical Guitar Under $700 Should You Buy?
After three months of side-by-side testing, the best classical guitars under $700 in 2026 come down to three core picks. The Cordoba C5 remains the editor’s choice for its solid cedar top, Savarez strings, and 210 reviews averaging 4.7 stars. The Yamaha C40II wins the best value slot with over 1,600 reviews and bulletproof beginner-friendly construction. The Kremona Soloist S65C is the hidden gem for anyone wanting handmade European craftsmanship under $700.
For smaller hands, the Cordoba Dolce 7/8 solves a real ergonomic problem. For live performance, the Fender CN-60S is the only true acoustic-electric option. For students, the Cordoba C1M Protege is the most popular starting point in the world. And if you want premium Yamaha craftsmanship, the CG192C sits at the top of the lineup with solid cedar and rosewood back and sides.
No matter which classical guitar you choose from this list, budget $30 to $50 for a professional setup if you are new to nylon string playing. A good setup makes any of these guitars play better and protects your investment for years of music.