In the music world, classical and acoustic guitars are the two earliest types of guitars. Although they have quite a few similarities with each other, it has confused many people.
However, classical vs acoustic guitar has many differences that are easy to spot. So what is the biggest difference between them?
We will share this with you in this article!
What is the difference between guitar classical vs acoustic?
Classical guitars have a lot of differences from acoustic guitars. Specifically:
- Body structure
- Guitar string
- The sound produced
It will be impossible for new guitar instruments to distinguish these two types of guitar. Basically, they are very similar in shape. So from a distance, they won’t make any difference at all.
But the manufacturer produces these two types of guitars with different uses. As a result, the sound and tone they produce are also opposite. Join us in the following analysis to clearly see the difference!
What are acoustic and classical guitars?
The acoustic guitar is a famous line for people who like to accompany singing. The sound of an acoustic guitar is usually very sharp.
Moreover, playing chords sounds very even and resonant. Therefore, they are suitable for playing many different types of music.
It can say that acoustic is the type of guitar closest to the player. It is popular with everyone, from beginners to seasoned players.
The classical guitar just like its name. It is a classical musical instrument with a deep sound. Classic is suitable for those who like to play classical music without lyrics. The sound of this instrument is usually very warm and melodious.
How is the classical different from the acoustic guitar in terms of body structure?
Body construction is the most distinguishing part of these two instruments. From the outside, they all look similar. There is a neck, a perforated body. But there is a difference between them.
#1. Shape and size
Acoustic guitars usually have a dreadnought shape. The classical guitar has a slightly more rounded body shape.
The size of these two types of herd is not too different. But in general, most classical guitars are smaller than acoustic guitars. Depending on the other manufacturers and the size of the guitar also varies.
#2. Neck
The neck is the big difference between the two. The neck of the classical guitar is usually much larger than the acoustic one.
Classical guitar neck
Because of this, the strings on a classical guitar have a longer distance than on an acoustic guitar. The manufacturer designed this to make it easy for players to press the keys and strings.
However, for those with small hands, playing classical strings will be difficult. This is because they couldn’t reach all the strings on the neck. After all, it was too wide.
There are no critical marks on the neck of a classical guitar. Unfortunately, this is also a difficult point for users.
#3. Bridge
The bridge on the classical guitar contains buttons used to fix the strings. They wrap the strings around the buttons to secure them.
Acoustic guitar bridge
In contrast to classical, acoustic guitars have string pegs on their bridge. This way of holding the strings with a peg seems to be more secure.
#4. Adjustment pin
There’s a huge difference between the key of an acoustic and a classical guitar. This is the most distinguishing factor between the two types of guitars. Because they have completely different designs.
Classical guitar strings
Classical guitars will cut through the top of the neck into two grooves. And the classical guitar winding part is usually a plastic shaft with a large horizontal iron core. They wound the strings on these shafts to fix them and adjust the tension.
The neck of an acoustic guitar has small upright iron rods. They will wrap the strings around these iron shafts for fixation. Then, when they need to adjust, they will rotate the adjustment knobs on the side.
What is the difference between classical strings and acoustic guitars?
Both of these guitars have strings, and at a glance, no one will notice the difference. However, the materials that make them up are different. Classical guitars use nylon strings, while acoustic guitars use steel strings.
These two strings also feel and sound very different.
Acoustic steel strings are thicker and stiffer than nylon strings. Manufacturers use a variety of metals for the strings, including copper and nickel. When practicing, they easily cause hand pain for players. However, the sound it produces is more resonant, clear, and lasting.
The nylon strings of classical guitar are quite thick. They have three treble strings (G, B, E) made of nylon. The bass strings (E, A, D) have a more specialized structure. These strings have a core of nylon and metal wrapped around the outside.
Classical strings are easy to play and don’t hurt your hands. Their sound is very gentle, warm, and smooth.
What’s the difference between acoustic and classical guitar sound?
Because the strings and construction of these two guitars are different, they also produce different sounds.
Acoustic guitars use metal strings to make the sound crisp and resonant. It is suitable for accompanists singing and playing chords, Latin style and Brazilian music. Others mix pop, folk, and jazz music.
Classical guitars use nylon strings to make the sound warm and melodious. Therefore, it is suitable for classical music players.
Acoustic guitars produce a wide variety of sounds. It spans all genres of music. Examples include tunes of rock, folk, soft rock, and blues. The acoustic guitar is especially useful at outdoor activities and art performances.
Is the classical or acoustic guitar an instrument suitable for beginners?
Many beginner guitar players have a lot of confusion when choosing the right guitar. You can note the following to have the most accurate selection.
Features to help you choose classical or acoustic guitar:
Small acoustic guitars are great for people with small hands. It will be easier for players to hold and press keys.
In contrast, a classical guitar has a large neck, the strings are far apart. It is more suitable for people with large hands.
Acoustic guitars come in many shapes from mini, concert, D-shape, jumbo. It depends on the size of the player to choose. Classical guitar has almost only one shape that is difficult to determine.
The acoustic guitar has a resonant sound suitable for fun music. Young people today are very fond of this type of guitar. Classical guitars usually play classical music without lyrics. It is a product that the elderly prefer.
Choose the type of guitar depending on the kind of music you like
If you want to play pop, rock or country music. If you are also willing to face the painful process of forming calluses, guitar acoustic is the best choice. Depending on the type of music you want to play, make a choice.
Suppose you want to play either Latin style or folk style. The classical guitar could be a great fit for you. Nylon strings are also easier to play and less painful.
But if you have short fingers, you will most likely find the neck quite wide. In this case, there is no other fix.
If you still choose classical guitar and find it difficult because of short fingers. You can slightly modify the hand position when pressing the key.
Frequently Asked Questions
#1. Classical or acoustic guitar gives you more flexibility when playing?
The answer is an acoustic guitar. The distance between the strings of an acoustic guitar is not as far as that of a classical. As a result, fingers can move flexibly from one string to another.
The neck of an acoustic guitar is also smaller than the neck of a classical guitar. As a result, players will be easier to hold or control.
#2. I’m looking to learn the piano, at least how much should I spend on a good guitar?
If you are a beginner, you should spend at least $100 to buy a guitar. There are many different types of guitars on the market today. Prices are also very diverse, from $ 50 and up.
However, it would help if you chose a guitar of excellent or temporary quality. A cheap guitar will cost you more to repair. And they don’t necessarily work well either!
#3. Acoustic or classical guitar easier to play for beginners?
Most beginners will find the classical guitar easier to play. Because the classic has soft nylon strings, it’s easy to play and doesn’t hurt your hands.
Conclusion
Classical vs acoustic guitar has a lot of differences. However, it is these differences that make them unique and suitable for different genres of music.
If you love guitar, you should try playing these two instruments. They will bring exciting experiences for you!
