If you’re looking for a classical guitar that hits the sweet spot between beginner and professional, an intermediate guitar may be the perfect choice for you. But with so many options available in the market, it can be a daunting task to select the best one.
Before buying an intermediate classical guitar, there are several factors that need to be considered, including the tonewoods, construction quality, sound projection, and action. It’s essential to understand that intermediate guitars offer a higher level of quality and craftsmanship than entry-level models but may not compare to the professional options available.
So, how do you make the best choice for you? Consider questions like: How long have you been playing? What is your budget? Are you willing to spend extra on a guitar that offers superior sound quality? Do you prefer a traditional or modern design? Answering these questions will help you gain a better idea of what you’re looking for and what may work best for you.
Ultimately, finding the best intermediate classical guitar is about finding the perfect balance between quality and affordability. With proper research and consideration, you can invest in a guitar that will last for years to come and provide you with an exceptional playing and listening experience.
10 Best Intermediate Classical Guitar
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Ideal for musicians seeking a small-bodied nylon-stringed acoustic guitar with high-quality craftsmanship and a protective case.
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2
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Ideal for musicians who want an acoustic guitar with the option to amplify sound and play different genres.
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3
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The product is ideal for beginners who want a complete guitar kit with various accessories and gift options.
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4
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This product is ideal for professional classical guitar players looking for a high-quality acoustic-electric instrument with a solid top.
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5
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Ideal for musicians seeking a high-quality, slim-necked nylon string classical guitar with a solid top and included bag.
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6
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This product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality nylon string classical guitar with a solid top and included bag.
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7
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The product is ideal for musicians seeking a high-quality, versatile acoustic-electric nylon classical guitar.
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8
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The product is ideal for musicians who want a high-quality acoustic-electric nylon classical guitar with a solid top.
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9
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This product is ideal for musicians who need a high-quality acoustic-electric nylon classical guitar with a solid top.
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10
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The product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality classical guitar with a spruce top and natural finish.
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1. Cordoba Parlor Guitar With Case

This classical guitar is an excellent choice for those seeking an instrument with a solid Canadian cedar top and solid mahogany back and sides. The materials used in its construction ensure a rich, warm tone that is both balanced and nuanced.
With its lightweight 7/8 size, this guitar is perfect for musicians seeking a comfortable, easy-to-play instrument. The smaller size also makes it an ideal choice for younger players or those with smaller hands.
One of the standout features of this guitar is its hand-inlaid Mother-of-Pearl "Esteso" rosette. This beautiful detail adds a touch of elegance to the instrument, making it a true work of art.
The rosewood fingerboard and Indian rosewood bridge provide a smooth, comfortable playing experience. The guitar is also equipped with a Cordoba Polyfoam case, ensuring that it stays protected during transport and storage.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced musician, this classical guitar is an excellent choice. Its high-quality materials, beautiful design, and comfortable playing experience make it a standout instrument in its class.
2. Takamine Gc5ce-Nat Acoustic Electric Classical Cutaway Guitar,natural

The GC5CE is an acoustic-electric classical guitar designed to enhance any music performance with its deluxe features, solid construction, and exceptional sound quality. This guitar is equipped with a Venetian-style cutaway and Takamine electronics system, making it a versatile and reliable choice for any performance situation.
Crafted with a fan-braced solid spruce top and rosewood back and sides, the GC5CE produces a warm and rich nylon-string sound that captures the essence of classical guitar music. The slim mahogany neck and rosewood fingerboard provide excellent playability and a comfortable feel that allows for hours of uninterrupted playing.
The Takamine TP-4T preamp system is a standout feature of the GC5CE, providing a built-in tuner with three-band EQ and gain controls for a solid amplified performance and versatility. Whether you are performing in front of a large audience or recording in a studio, this guitar is designed to meet the demands of any performance situation.
Other great features of the GC5CE include a dovetail neck joint, beautiful inlaid mosaic rosette, synthetic bone nut and bridge saddle, rosewood head cap, gold tuners with white pearl buttons, and a luxurious gloss finish. These details not only enhance the guitar's aesthetic appeal but also contribute to its overall performance and durability.
3. Fujampe Beginner Acoustic Guitar Kit – All-Inclusive!

Introducing the all-in-one guitar kit, perfect for beginners, intermediates, and experienced players alike. This comprehensive starter set features a full-scale 6-string folk guitar made of high-quality basswood, equipped with all the necessary accessories to get you started on your musical journey.
The kit includes a carrying case for easy transport, extra strings, a strap with a pick holder, a tuner, pick guard, cleaning cloth, capo, and 4 guitar picks. No need to purchase any additional accessories – everything is included in this all-inclusive package.
The guitar's elegant inlay provides a classic, acoustic look, and its polished surface allows for smooth playing, preventing any discomfort or injury to your hands. Its 41in body makes for a comfortable fit, perfect for teenagers and adults alike.
The all-wood guitar produces a pleasant, warm tone, making it ideal for guitar lessons, recitals, band rehearsals, stage performances, and even traveling. Whether you're playing soft or loud, strumming or flatpicking, this guitar remains responsive and retains its tonal integrity.
This tasteful guitar is also a great gift for kids and friends, and it's perfect for both recreational and professional use. Take your guitar with you to school or on trips with a stylish and protective carrying case, ensuring that your instrument stays safe and secure.
4. Ortega Pro Thinline Nylon Classical Guitar.

Introducing the RCE145NT, a Solid Top Thinline Acoustic-Electric Nylon String Guitar from the Family Series Pro line. This guitar boasts a stunning combination of materials including a Solid Canadian Engelmann Spruce Top, Mahogany Back & Sides with a Natural Gloss Finish that gives it a classic and elegant look.
The Mahogany Neck with Natural Gloss Finish is equipped with a Walnut Fretboard & Bridge, Maple Binding & ABS Purfling, and a White Abalone / ABS Rosette, perfect for those who appreciate intricate details and fine craftsmanship.
The RCE145NT has a full body 650 mm Scale, 85 mm Thinline Body Depth, 48 mm Nut Width Slim Neck, and 19 Frets, with a 2-Way Truss rod that ensures optimal playability and stability. The Gold Plated Tuning Machines with Pearl Buttons further enhance the guitar's visual appeal, while the Fan Bracing and 12-Hole Bridge provide a greater break angle for a cleaner, crisper sound and faster string replacement.
Equipped with an Ortega MagusPro preamp/pickup system with a built-in tuner, this guitar makes it easy to amplify your sound and tune on-the-go. The Venetian Cutaway adds to the guitar's versatility, allowing for easy access to higher frets.
The RCE145NT comes with a Free Deluxe Gig Bag, making it easy to transport and protect your instrument. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, the RCE145NT is an excellent choice for those who appreciate quality, beauty, and functionality.
5. Ortega Family Pro Nylon Classical Guitar W/bag.

The R131SN Solid Top Nylon String Guitar from the Family Series Pro is an exceptional instrument for both beginners and professionals. It boasts a Solid Canadian Western Red Cedar Top and Mahogany Back & Sides, finished in a Natural Satin Finish to deliver a warm, rich and resonant sound. The Mahogany Neck with its Natural Satin Finish offers excellent playability, while the Walnut Fretboard & Bridge and Maple Binding & ABS Purfling add to its aesthetic appeal.
The guitar's Full Body 650 mm Scale, 102 mm Body Depth, and 48 mm Nut Width Slim Neck make it comfortable to play for extended periods. It also features 19 Frets, a 2-Way Truss rod, and Chrome Plated Tuning Machines w/ Pearl Buttons for tuning stability and accuracy. The Fan Bracing enhances the guitar's projection and resonance, while the 12-Hole Bridge provides a greater break angle for a cleaner, crisper sound and faster string replacement.
The R131SN Nylon String Guitar comes with a Free Deluxe Gig Bag, making it an excellent choice for musicians who are always on the go. Overall, the R131SN guitar is an outstanding investment for those who want an instrument that delivers quality sound, exceptional playability, and stunning looks.
6. Ortega Guitars 6 String Performer Series Solid Top Nylon Classical Guitar W/bag, Right, Full (R159)

The R159 – Solid Top String Guitar – Performer Series – w/ Bag is a must-have instrument for any music enthusiast. It is made of high-quality materials that ensure durability and excellent sound quality. The guitar features a solid North American Cedar top with walnut back and sides, providing a warm and balanced tone. The natural gloss finish adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the instrument.
The guitar's Okuman neck also features a natural gloss finish, making it comfortable and smooth to play. The Purpleheart fretboard and bridge, along with the walnut binding and Maple/ABS purfling, add a stunning contrast to the guitar's natural wood color. The Ortega Signature Walnut/Maple/White Pearl Rosette is a beautiful decorative element that enhances the guitar's overall aesthetic.
The guitar has a full-body 650 mm scale, 102 mm body depth, and 52 mm nut width medium neck, making it comfortable to play for extended periods. The guitar has 19 frets and a 2-way truss rod that helps to adjust the guitar's neck relief, thus ensuring optimal playability.
The gold-plated tuning machines with pearl buttons offer a smooth and precise tuning experience, while the fan bracing enhances the guitar's overall tonality. The 12-hole bridge is a unique feature that provides a greater break angle for a cleaner, crisper sound, and faster string replacement.
The R159 – Solid Top String Guitar – Performer Series – w/ Bag comes with a free deluxe gig bag, making it easy to transport and store the instrument. Overall, this guitar is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a high-quality instrument that offers excellent sound quality, comfort, and durability.
7. Pro Nylon Acoustic-Electric Guitar With Bag

The RCE131 – Solid Top Acoustic/Electric Nylon String Guitar – Family Series Pro is a high-quality guitar designed for both professionals and beginners. This guitar has a solid Canadian Western Red Cedar top that produces a warm and rich tone, perfect for classical and flamenco music.
The back and sides of the guitar are made of mahogany, providing a full and balanced sound. The natural satin finish on the body of the guitar gives it an elegant and classic look that is both stylish and timeless.
The neck of the guitar is also made of mahogany, with a natural satin finish that provides a smooth and comfortable playing experience. The walnut fretboard and bridge are durable and easy to play, while the maple binding and ABS purfling add a touch of elegance to the overall design.
This guitar has a full body 650 mm scale, 102 mm body depth, and a 52 mm nut width, making it comfortable to play for long periods of time. It features 19 frets, a 2-way truss rod, and chrome plated tuning machines with pearl buttons that provide accurate tuning and stability.
The fan bracing and 12-hole bridge improve the sound quality of the guitar, providing a cleaner and crisper sound with faster string replacement. The Ortega MagusPro preamp/pickup system with a built-in tuner allows you to play your guitar on stage and in the studio with ease, while the Venetian cutaway provides easy access to the higher frets.
This guitar comes with a free deluxe gig bag, making it easy to transport and protect your instrument. Overall, the RCE131 – Solid Top Acoustic/Electric Nylon String Guitar – Family Series Pro is a great investment for anyone looking for a high-quality, versatile guitar that delivers exceptional sound quality and is built to last.
8. Pro Nylon Acoustic-Electric Guitar By Ortega

Introducing the RCE141NT – Solid Top Nylon String Guitar from the Family Series Pro, complete with a free deluxe gig bag. This top-quality instrument boasts a solid Canadian Engelmann Spruce top, Mahogany back and sides, and a natural gloss finish that gives it an elegant and sophisticated look.
The Mahogany neck is also coated in a natural gloss finish and features a Walnut fretboard and bridge, as well as Maple binding and ABS purfling. The White Abalone/ABS Rosette adds an extra touch of style to the overall design.
The guitar features a full-body 650mm scale, 102mm body depth, 52mm nut width, and 19 frets. It also comes equipped with a 2-way truss rod, gold plated tuning machines with pearl buttons, fan bracing, and a 12-hole bridge that provides a greater break angle for a cleaner, crisper sound and faster string replacement.
The Ortega MagusPro preamp/pickup system with built-in tuner ensures that the guitar produces a clear, balanced sound that is perfect for both live performances and recording sessions. The Venetian Cutaway also allows players to easily access the higher frets for more complex chord progressions and solos.
9. Pro Nylon Classical Guitar With Bag.

Introducing the RCE141BK, a high-quality acoustic/electric nylon string guitar from the Family Series Pro with a sleek black gloss finish. Crafted with a solid Canadian Engelmann Spruce top and Mahogany back & sides, this guitar delivers a rich, warm sound that's perfect for a variety of musical genres.
The Mahogany neck with a black gloss finish, Walnut fretboard and bridge, and white Abalone/ABS binding & rosette contribute to the guitar's aesthetic appeal. The full-body 650 mm scale, 102 mm body depth, and 52 mm nut width make it comfortable to play for extended periods. With 19 frets and a 2-way truss rod, the guitar offers flexibility and versatility in terms of playing style.
The RCE141BK's gold plated tuning machines with pearl buttons ensure accurate and stable tuning, while the fan bracing and 12-hole bridge provide a cleaner, crisper sound and facilitate faster string replacement. The Venetian cutaway allows for easy access to upper frets, making it ideal for solo performances.
Equipped with an Ortega MagusPro preamp/pickup system with a built-in tuner, the RCE141BK offers a seamless transition from acoustic to electric play and allows for fine-tuning of the sound. This guitar also comes with a free deluxe gig bag that provides excellent protection during transport.
10. Yamaha Cg162s Spruce Top Classical Guitar – Natural

The guitar in question boasts an exceptional build quality with a Solid Engelmann Spruce Top, Ovankol Back and Sides, and a Nato Neck. The use of these premium materials ensures that the guitar produces a high-quality sound with an excellent tonal range. The Solid Engelmann Spruce Top provides a bright and clear sound with excellent projection, while the Ovankol Back and Sides complement it with a warm and rich tone. The Nato Neck is sturdy and comfortable to play, making it an ideal choice for extended playing sessions.
The guitar is also equipped with a Rosewood Fingerboard and Bridge, which provides a smooth and comfortable playing experience. The Rosewood material is highly durable and offers a natural feel, making it an ideal choice for players of all levels. The Fingerboard and Bridge design also ensures excellent intonation, allowing for precise and accurate playing.
Best Intermediate Classical Guitar FAQs
Are there any specific styles of music that an intermediate classical guitar is best suited for?
An intermediate classical guitar can be suitable for a variety of music styles, including classical, flamenco, folk, and some forms of jazz. However, it's essential to keep in mind that the type of music you can play on your guitar depends on its particular characteristics and your personal playing style. For instance, if you prefer to play fast-paced, intricate pieces, you may need a guitar with a thinner neck and a lower action. On the other hand, if you enjoy playing with a softer, more delicate touch, you may prefer a guitar with a wider neck and a higher action. Ultimately, the best way to determine the music styles that your intermediate classical guitar is best suited for is to experiment with different pieces and techniques and listen to how your guitar responds. That way, you can get a feel for its unique sound and capabilities and find the music styles that suit it best.
Can you recommend a specific brand or model for an intermediate classical guitar?
There are many reputable brands and models of intermediate classical guitars on the market, each with their own unique features and benefits. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your personal preferences and budget. However, some brands that are widely known for producing high-quality classical guitars include Yamaha, Cordoba, and Takamine.
One model that is often recommended for intermediate players is the Yamaha CG172SF. This guitar has a solid spruce top and rosewood back and sides, which produces a balanced and warm sound. It also has a comfortable neck shape and is known for its excellent intonation and playability.
Another option to consider is the Cordoba C7. This guitar features a solid cedar top and mahogany back and sides, which gives it a rich and full-bodied tone. It also has a slim neck profile and a traditional Spanish heel for enhanced playability.
Ultimately, it's important to try out different guitars and find one that feels comfortable and sounds good to you. It's also a good idea to consult with a guitar teacher or experienced player for additional guidance on selecting the right instrument.
Do I need to have a certain level of skill to play an intermediate classical guitar?
Yes, you need to have a certain level of skill to play an intermediate classical guitar. Intermediate level classical guitars are designed for players who have already learned the basics of playing classical guitar and have developed a good level of finger strength and dexterity. This level of guitar playing requires a solid foundation in classical guitar technique, such as proper hand positioning, finger placement, and picking techniques.
To play an intermediate classical guitar, you should have a good understanding of music theory and be familiar with reading sheet music. You should also be able to play basic scales, arpeggios, and chords with ease. If you are a beginner, it is recommended that you start with a beginner-level classical guitar and work your way up to an intermediate level as you improve your skills.
It is important to note that playing a classical guitar requires a lot of practice and dedication. With consistent practice and effort, you can develop the necessary skills to play an intermediate classical guitar.
How do I choose the best intermediate classical guitar for my skill level?
Choosing the best intermediate classical guitar requires careful consideration of several key factors. First and foremost, you should assess your current skill level and determine the type of sound and playing style you wish to achieve. This will help you narrow down your options and select a guitar that suits your needs.
Next, you should consider the materials used in the guitar's construction. Look for a guitar that features high-quality tonewoods such as spruce or cedar for the top and rosewood or mahogany for the back and sides. These materials contribute to a guitar's overall tone and projection.
Other important factors to consider include the guitar's size and shape, the type of strings it uses, and the quality of its hardware and tuning machines. You may also want to look for additional features such as cutaways or built-in electronics if you plan on performing live or recording your music.
Ultimately, the best way to choose an intermediate classical guitar is to try out several different models and see which one feels and sounds the best to you. Consider visiting a local music store or attending a guitar expo to test out a variety of guitars and get a sense of what works for your playing style and preferences.
How long will an intermediate classical guitar last before needing an upgrade?
The lifespan of an intermediate classical guitar can vary depending on several factors such as the quality of the instrument, the frequency of use, and the level of maintenance. Generally, a well-maintained intermediate classical guitar can last for several years, even decades, before needing an upgrade. However, if the guitar is used frequently and undergoes a lot of wear and tear, it may need an upgrade sooner.
To ensure the longevity of your intermediate classical guitar, it is important to take good care of it. This includes storing it properly, keeping it clean, and having it serviced regularly by a professional guitar technician. Additionally, playing the guitar with proper technique and using the appropriate strings can also help prolong its lifespan.
Ultimately, whether or not you need to upgrade your intermediate classical guitar will depend on your personal preferences and needs as a musician. If you find that your playing style or musical tastes have evolved, or if you are looking for a higher quality instrument, then it may be time to consider an upgrade.
What are the best intermediate classical guitars on the market?
There are several great options for intermediate classical guitars on the market. One popular option is the Yamaha CG172SF, which is known for its warm and balanced tone. Another great option is the Cordoba C7, which is handcrafted with a solid cedar top and rosewood back and sides, producing a rich and full-bodied sound. For those on a budget, the Takamine GC5CE is a great option with a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, producing a bright and clear sound. The La Patrie Etude is also a highly recommended option, featuring a solid cedar top and wild cherry back and sides, producing a warm and mellow sound. Ultimately, the best intermediate classical guitar for you will depend on your personal preferences and playing style, so it is important to try out different options before making a decision.
What are the key features to look for in an intermediate classical guitar?
When looking for an intermediate classical guitar, there are several key features to consider.
Firstly, the type of wood used to make the guitar is important. A solid top made of spruce or cedar is ideal for a warm and resonant sound.
Secondly, the neck should be comfortable to play and easy to fret. A slim profile neck made of mahogany or rosewood is preferred by many intermediate players.
Thirdly, the guitar should have good intonation, meaning that it should play in tune up and down the fretboard.
Fourthly, the guitar should have good projection and sustain, meaning that the notes should ring out clearly and for a reasonable amount of time.
Finally, it is important to consider the overall craftsmanship and build quality of the guitar. A well-made guitar will have attention to detail in the bracing, fretwork, and finish.
Overall, an intermediate classical guitar should be a step up in quality from a beginner guitar, with a focus on sound, playability, and overall craftsmanship.
What is the difference between an intermediate and beginner classical guitar?
The main difference between an intermediate and beginner classical guitar lies in the quality of materials used in the construction of the instrument. Generally, intermediate classical guitars are made using higher quality woods, such as solid spruce or cedar for the top, and rosewood or mahogany for the back and sides. In contrast, beginner classical guitars are typically made with laminated woods, which are less expensive but also less resonant.
Intermediate classical guitars also tend to have better craftsmanship and attention to detail, resulting in a more refined sound and better playability. They may also have additional features, such as cutaways for easier access to higher frets or built-in pickups for amplification.
However, it's important to note that the distinction between beginner and intermediate classical guitars is not always clear-cut, and there is a wide range of quality and price points within each category. Ultimately, the best guitar for a particular player will depend on their skill level, playing style, and personal preferences.
What is the price range for a good intermediate classical guitar?
The price range for a good intermediate classical guitar can vary widely depending on the brand, materials used, and overall quality. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $1500 for a decent intermediate classical guitar. If you are a serious player looking for a higher-end instrument, you may want to consider investing in a guitar that is priced at the higher end of this range. However, if you are just starting out or looking for a more affordable option, there are plenty of great guitars available in the lower price range. It's important to do your research and try out different guitars before making a purchase to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money. Additionally, it's always a good idea to seek the advice of a professional musician or guitar teacher to help guide you in your decision-making process.
What materials should I look for in an intermediate classical guitar?
When it comes to choosing a classical guitar, the materials used in its construction play a critical role in determining the sound quality and overall performance of the instrument. For an intermediate guitar, you should look for a guitar made from high-quality materials that can produce a rich, warm and balanced sound.
The top of the guitar is the most critical part of the instrument, and you should look for a guitar with a solid top made from high-quality tonewoods such as cedar, spruce or mahogany. The back and sides of the guitar should also be made from solid tonewoods such as rosewood, maple, or mahogany.
The fingerboard and bridge should be made from ebony or rosewood as these materials are dense and can withstand constant use. The neck of the guitar should be made from high-quality mahogany or other hardwoods that provide stability and support.
In summary, an intermediate classical guitar should have a solid top made from high-quality tonewoods, solid back and sides made from tonewoods, a fingerboard and bridge made from ebony or rosewood, and a neck made from high-quality mahogany or other hardwoods.