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10 Best Nylon String Guitars 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Fender CN-60S Concert Nylon String Acoustic Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Natural

The Fender CN-60S Concert Nylon String Acoustic Guitar is a solid choice for both beginners and intermediate players looking for a reliable nylon-string guitar. One of its standout features is the solid spruce top, which provides a bright and resonant sound, paired with a laminated mahogany back and sides that enhance its warmth. The scale length of 25.3 inches is comfortable for most players, making it easier to reach the frets without straining. The 12-inch fingerboard radius is quite user-friendly, particularly for those transitioning from steel-string guitars.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,448
Body Size and Shape

Most important from
1926 reviews

Body Size and Shape
The smaller size is convenient and might be especially good for young students.
#2
9.1 score

Godin Multiac Mundial Nylon Acoustic-electric Guitar - Onyx Black

The Godin Multiac Mundial is a well-crafted nylon-string acoustic-electric guitar that suits players who want a versatile instrument for both unplugged and amplified settings. It features a cedar top, which is known for producing warm, rich tones ideal for classical and fingerstyle playing. The back and sides use maple, offering a bright resonance and good projection. The neck is made of cedar and has a rosewood fingerboard, which provides a smooth feel and comfortable playability. The fixed bridge system ensures stable tuning, and the guitar's electronics allow for easy amplification, making it a good choice for performers.

Rating
9.1
Body Size and Shape

Most important from
2 reviews

Body Size and Shape
The guitar stands out with its beautiful and striking design, making it an impressive gift choice.
#3
9.1 score

Taylor 814ce-N Grand Auditorium Cutaway Nylon-String - Natural Sitka Spruce Top

The Taylor 814ce-N is a high-quality nylon-string acoustic-electric guitar featuring a Grand Auditorium body shape and a cutaway, which enhances playability by allowing easier access to higher frets. Its spruce top delivers bright and clear tones that complement the warmth of the rosewood back and sides.

Rating
9.1
Body Size and Shape
Top Wood
Neck Width

Most important from
5 reviews

Body Size and Shape
Despite its premium build and sound, the guitar is noticeably heavier than typical nylon-string guitars, which can affect comfort during long sessions.
Top Wood
The solid Sitka spruce top paired with rosewood back and sides creates a bright, clear sound with warm undertones that impress both unplugged and amplified.
Neck Width
The playability is outstanding, with a setup that feels smooth and comfortable, making it a joy for both beginners and seasoned players.
Electronics
It delivers an incredible presence and responsiveness, producing a tone that truly sings and justifies its premium price.

Top 10 Best Nylon String Guitars 2026 in the United States

Taylor 312ce-N Nylon String Grand Concert, Sapele

Body Size and Shape: Grand Concert
Top Wood: Sitka Spruce
Scale Length: 25.5 inches
Electronics: built-in electronics

Godin ACS-SA Slim - Natural Semi-Gloss

Top Wood: Cedar Wood
Scale Length: 25.5 Inches
Electronics: Single pickup configuration

Yamaha SLG200N NT Nylon String Silent Guitar with Hard Gig Bag, Natural

Body Size and Shape: 38.19 x 14 x 3.47 inches
Top Wood: Mahogany Wood
Scale Length: 26 inches
Electronics: SRT-Powered pickup system

Cordoba C5 SP Classical Acoustic Nylon String Guitar, Iberia Series

Body Size and Shape: Standard
Top Wood: Solid Engelmann Spruce
Neck Width: 52mm
Scale Length: 648mm
Electronics: None
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Buying Guide for the Best Nylon String Guitars

Choosing the right nylon-string guitar can be a rewarding experience, especially if you know what to look for. Nylon-string guitars, also known as classical guitars, are known for their warm, mellow tones and are often used in classical, flamenco, and folk music. When selecting a nylon-string guitar, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you find the best fit for your playing style and needs.
Body Size and ShapeThe body size and shape of a nylon-string guitar affect its sound and playability. Smaller bodies, like parlor or concert sizes, produce a more focused and intimate sound, making them ideal for fingerstyle playing and smaller hands. Larger bodies, such as grand concert or dreadnought, offer a fuller, louder sound with more bass response, suitable for strumming and louder performances. Choose a body size that feels comfortable to hold and suits your playing style.
Top WoodThe top wood, or soundboard, of a nylon-string guitar significantly influences its tone. Common choices include spruce and cedar. Spruce tops provide a bright, clear sound with good projection, making them versatile for various playing styles. Cedar tops offer a warmer, more resonant tone with a quicker response, ideal for fingerstyle and classical music. Consider the type of music you play and the sound you prefer when selecting the top wood.
Neck WidthThe neck width of a nylon-string guitar affects playability, especially for fingerstyle techniques. Classical guitars typically have wider necks (around 2 inches at the nut), which provide more space between strings, making it easier to play complex fingerings. Some crossover or hybrid models have narrower necks (closer to 1.8 inches), which can be more comfortable for players transitioning from steel-string guitars. Choose a neck width that feels comfortable for your hand size and playing style.
Scale LengthThe scale length is the distance between the nut and the saddle, affecting string tension and playability. Standard scale lengths for nylon-string guitars range from 25.5 to 26 inches. Longer scale lengths provide more string tension, resulting in a brighter tone and more volume, but can be harder to play. Shorter scale lengths offer less tension, making the guitar easier to play, especially for beginners or those with smaller hands. Consider your comfort and the sound you prefer when choosing the scale length.
Bracing PatternThe bracing pattern inside the guitar's body supports the top wood and influences the instrument's tone and projection. Traditional fan bracing is common in classical guitars, providing a warm, balanced tone with good sustain. Lattice bracing offers more volume and a brighter sound, often preferred by modern classical guitarists. Choose a bracing pattern that complements your playing style and desired sound.
ElectronicsIf you plan to perform or record with your nylon-string guitar, consider a model with built-in electronics. These systems typically include a pickup and preamp, allowing you to amplify your sound without losing the guitar's natural tone. Look for features like onboard tuners and EQ controls for added convenience. If you primarily play acoustically, electronics may not be necessary, but they can be a valuable addition for versatility.

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