Top 17 Best Classical Guitars Under 500: Reviews And Comparison 2023

If you are seeking for the best classical guitars under 500 that meet all your demand? At this range of price, there are tons of products pop up on your homepage and you must be really confused. Well, we are here to make it easier for you to make a decision. But we are here!

Classical guitar is considered as a piece of art. And well, there are reasons for that, not any type of guitar can deliver such resonate and pure sound as it is.

At this price, you are capable of buying a bit more high-end guitars with great features. But we know that going through this searching process alone is lonely, so we have listed out Top 17 best classical guitars under 500 and comprehensively reviewed it just for you!

Best Classical Guitars Under 500 Comparison 2023

No	Name	Image	Best For	Rating	Details
1	Yamaha CG122MCH Solid Cedar Top Classical Guitar		Best guitar for not to hurt your fingers		VIEW PRODUCT
2	Cordoba F7 Acoustic Nylon String Flamenco Guitar		Best guitar for warm tone		VIEW PRODUCT
3	Breedlove PURSUIT NYLON Pursuit Nylon Acoustic-Electric Guitar Natural		Best guitar for performers and recording purposes		VIEW PRODUCT
4	Antonio Giuliani Classical Rosewood Guitar Outfit (Clear) (CL-6) - Acoustic Guitar with Case and Accessories By Kennedy Violins		Best guitar bundles		VIEW PRODUCT
5	Cordoba C5-CET CD Thin Body Cutaway Classical Acoustic-Electric Nylon String Guitar, Iberia Series		Best guitar unique outlook		VIEW PRODUCT

** Below, you will find our detailed reviews of the  Best Classical Guitars Under 500, but you can also click these following links to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.

Top Best Classical Guitars Under 500  Reviews 2023

Yamaha CG122MCH

The best classical guitars under 500Yamaha is a famous brand in the classical guitar world. Therefore, Yamaha is definitely under your consideration when choosing the best classical guitar under 500.

 

Yamaha CG122MCH is created with Cedar top, providing a warm tone when you play. Its playability is quite good.  A matte finish brings it a more high quality outlook, even though the design is quite common and simple.

 

Six nylon pressure strings will increase your playing experience, it’s easier and more comfortable, especially for the beginner. This will not hurt your fingers as much as other classical guitars in the same ranges. One thing you should consider that the strings are quite in low-action.

Cordoba F7

This one is a bit high for a best classical guitar under 500, but trust me, it is worth the price. The brand itself is a kind of guarantee for the quality and this guitar can be your mate in any type of style, not only classic, but also flamenco, jazz,…

 

It is laminated with spruce top and cypress back, creating a superb and stunning appearance. The tuners with yellow plated and black knobs also make a contribution to the outlook. The guitar holds up to 19 frets which are completely made of Pau Ferro.

 

It delivers a warm and decent sound which can be compared to any high-end guitars. Overall, this is a well-built and appealing guitar that should be added to your list.

Breedlove Pursuit Nylon 

The best classical guitars under 500 Breedlove Pursuit is a kind of electro-acoustic series. This guitar is best for performers and for recording purposes. That’s why I put it on the list.

 

The single cutaway and tortoiseshell binding is not an ideal design for beginners, instead, it is more suitable for the upper level one. The solid cedar top and mahogany back and sides brings a clear and warm tone.

 

This Breedlove model has a thin nut width and rosewood fretboard. Therefore, it has a very surprising playability with a smooth sound. This guitar also offers versatility from the electronics.

Antonio Giuliani CL-6

In case you are looking for a guitar at a very affordable price and include a protector, this guitar is the best classical guitar under 500 for you. It comes with Case and Accessories By Kennedy Violins, extremely cute and unique.

 

It is furnished with cedar top and rosewood back and sides, which provides a classy outlook and pleasant, lovely sound. If you are preparing for a rehearsal or meeting, this is an ideal material.

 

What’s best about this guitar offers a life-time guarantee and money back policy within 45 days. This means that if after buying it, you do not feel like it, you can return it back to the store. Even if the guitar is in a bad condition or you find there’s something wrong with the craftsmanship, the guarantee will care about that!

Cordoba C5-CET CD Thin Body 

In my opinion, this could be the most gorgeous classical guitar under 500. The solid Canadian cedar top of this Cordoba is exceptional compared to other classical guitar. It comes with many sizes and colors up to your use.

 

Soft cutaway with Fishman Isys and pickup allows players to play down the neck. It is also created with fascinating completion and soft cutaway, In general, Cordoba C5-CET is quite different from other classical guitars.

 

If you are a traditional-looking fan, this guitar might not be the one for you. However, it is a good option for crossover players who seek for a warm tone guitar. Its gloss finish and great sound is also a plus.

Cordoba C7

Cordoba C7 is higher than other classical guitars under 500, but it is worth the price. It is made with European spruce top and considered as a first class old style classical guitar.

 

With fan propping design, it delivers clear, resonate sounds and can be compared to any higher-priced guitar. The tone is also strong and distinctive on the ground as there are a lot of vacancies and it features precisely what you are playing. The frets of the guitar is quite intensive so if you are only an amateur, this might be a bit too much for you.

 

The guitar is available with a gig bag for better protection and also portable in case you need to bring it out with you.

La Patrie Etude

Although La Patrie Etude has been available on the market for over 10 years, it is still a go-to to many guitarists. It is a product from Seagull, so you do not have to worry about its quality.

Its bent fingerboard and fretboard makes it easier for you to play as your fingers can figure out what string to play. La Patrie Etude has a strong and decent sound due to the nut width and saddle. The wild cherry colour and cedar soundboard is also a contributing factor to a bright and unique sound.

 

With Cedar top and Semi-gloss finish, the guitar has an elegant and appealing outlook. So with its design and amazing tone, this guitar can be considered to be added to your cart.

Alvarez AC65HCE

Alvarez is best-known for its acoustic guitar. And the AC65HCE is presented as a part of it, a kind of acoustic-electric guitar.

 

What makes this guitar unique is its hybrid acoustic guitar, a combination of what’s best in nylon-string guitar and the steel string. It is designed with a traditional classic body and single cutaway. It features solid red cedar and mahogany back and sides.

 

The thin nut width increases your playing experience as it is easier for you to play. It offers a warm, lovely deep tone. Overall, this might not be the guitar for everyone but it’s worth giving it a try.

Kremona Soloist S65C 

The best classical guitars under 500 Kremona Soloist will surely surprise you with its amazing sound and stunning appearance. When you play, the sound is really resonant and deep.

 

The combination between solid Western cedar top and Sapele back and sides creates a harmony in colors. It is a fact that it was all handcrafted in Europe and has many resemblances to the common classical, this somehow makes the guitar seem a bit boring. But well, it is all up to your opinion.

 

The guitar has a light gloss finish, bringing an elegant and not-so-overwhelming feel. It also comes with a soft case for better protection.

Alhambra 6 String 1OP-US

The best classical guitars under 500 Alhambra 6 String 1OP-US comes with different options with size such as Classical or Cutaway; and styles such as High gloss finish or open pore finish. If it is difficult for you to reach the top frets and need some support, well, the cutaway is suitable for you.

 

First launched in 2016, however, this guitar seems not so popular in the classical guitar world. But for those who have used this, this is their most favourite baby! This is on top of the best classical guitar under 500 due to its aptitude and durability. Can be purchased at a reasonable price but this guitar will be with you for a long time.

This guitar includes a soft case for better protection.

Yamaha CG182C   

This is definitely the best classical guitar under 500 due to its brand reputation and 5-star reviews. With solid cedar top, ebony fingerboard and rosewood bridge, the guitar has an elegant, vintage, warm dark appearance.

 

The mosaic structure will give you a unique identity, personalized to your own guitar. It also provides a clear, high quality sound created from great cedar top. It is a great choice for those who are switching from steel string to nylon string.

Cordoba Dolce 7/8 Size

Cordoba Dolce  is famous for its clear sound and light weight. If you are concerned about the weight of the guitar while looking for the best classical guitar under 500, you can take it into consideration.

 

The top is created with Solid Canadian cedar and the back and sides are created with Mahogany wood. With its amazing projection capabilities, the guitar has a wonderful sweet and full sound. A high quality tuning pegs can bring to any tone you want.

 

The guitar is also portable and convenient to bring along if you are on a far trip and its attractive classical outlook is a good tool for your picture.

ProductIbanez GA5TCE name

This is another best classical guitar under 500 I want to introduce with you. Ibanez is one of most-liked brands when it comes to classical guitar.

 

The combination of spruce top and mahogany back and sides brings an extraordinary tone to the guitar. The neck can surprisingly reach up to 14 frets. With GA5TCE, it is easier for you to reach high frets due to a thinline body, which will make the cutaway place on your left hand.

 

It delivers a resonant, rich sound and can be a good partner with bass. The guitar can work well with any style you play.

Yamaha CG122MSH

Yamaha CG122MSH is a good choice if you are looking for the best classical guitar under 500. It comes with 3 different styles: Solid Cedar Top, Solid Spruce Top and Spruce Top and 2 configuration: Acoustic and Acoustic-Electric. A variety of options would make it easier for you to pick out your favourite.

 

A matte finish gives the guitar a more classy and vintage look. The pressure strings will boost your playing experience more comfortably, whether you are an amateur or a professional.

 

The guitar is equipped with 19 fret joint and amazing low string action, which normally appears in luxury guitars. Its decent warm, woody tone will also be a great feature of this guitar.

Fender FC-100

When purchasing Fender FC-100, you will have a package of tuner, picks, strings, gig bag, and of course, a guitar. So this is definitely a good bargain! Especially for beginners as everything you need is all in one combo.

 

It is designed with narrow nut width which will improve your playing experience, for small-hand people, this is your heaven! Spruce top creates a decent, warm tone. Laminate construction gives great projection to the guitar.

 

This guitar is not installed with a preamp as other guitars, but with or without an amp, this guitar is still wonderful.

 

With many features above and small body size, it seems like the guitar is especially made for beginners.

Yamaha C40

Not any guitarists do not know about the Yamaha brand, and of course, there are reasons for them to be so popular and well-loved. With hundreds of ratings on Amazon, but It is still at a very high rate. Yamaha really knows how to make a guitar that is at its best quality with a reasonable price.

 

The back and sides are laminated with Mahogany wood, making it strong and solid no matter what kind of practice you are taking. Gloss finish brings a bright and brand new look even though you might use it for a long time.

 

Yamaha C40 delivers a mellow and smooth sound that will steal your heart. When you just buy the guitar, the tune tends to go out quickly. But the longer you play, the longer it will stay in the air. It used to be on Amazon’s Top Choice and very famous so you can consider to buy this as the best classical guitar under 500.

Ibanez GA35TCEDVS

This Ibanez version has the most elegant and great features compared to other versions of classical guitars under 500. It comes with a smaller size than common guitar, which is perfect for any guitarist and more portable for you.

 

The guitar has a Dark violin Burst and this is the only colour available. The gloss finish makes the guitar look more high quality and bright. It is available in nylon string, but many of its features are taken over from steel strings such as the 14th fret joint, mahogany body or spruce top.

 

AEQ210T preamp is included with the guitar, but it sounds both amazing with or without the amp.

How To Buy The Best Classical Guitar Under 500

In a diverse selection when it comes to classical guitar under 500, I know you must be really confused. Because I used to be like you. There are tons of things to consider like model, playability, tone, frets,… Or just simply what are the differences between them. Whether you are a beginner, an intermediate or a professional, here are some key factors you need to know when choosing the best classical guitar under 500.

But before I start, I want you to think of this:

• Sound or appearance is your priority?

• Which music do you want to play?

• What does your gut comment?

• The kind of sound you are expecting

Answering this kind of question will help you to have a clearer look of what you are expecting from a guitar. From that, your journey to find the best classical guitar under 500 will be much shorter.

Bundles

If you just start your guitar journey for the first time, we recommend you to buy guitar bundles. Many guitar brands offer additional strings, accessories, gigs bags,…to support your playing.

We cannot deny the fact that bundles are a great bargain. It provides you with what is needed for playing guitar. But it can be hard to find which accessories are really necessary. That’s why you should surf the Internet to do research and find what best for you.

Size

When it comes to size, you should think of your hand size to choose the most suitable guitar size for you. Normally, a full-estimated traditional would be ideal. But if your hand is smaller, you can examine other sizes such as: ¾ or half-sized.

The ¾ typically has the same tune as the full-estimated one. And the ½ is a huge contrast in terms of minor third tune or major second tune. The ½ would be best if you are looking for a lower budget guitar.

Nylon String

Normally, when you buy a new classical guitar, it comes along with an electric or acoustic guitar string. We all know how important the string is so it is better for you to check out carefully its brand and the quality in the description box.

It is a common situation that when you buy a guitar online, the appearance might catch your eye and it is made of high-quality wood. But the strings might not be the same. The strings can make the sound ten times worse. That’s why you should do careful research before deciding to buy a classical guitar under 500.

Wood Types

There are many types of wood to make a guitar. The most common is the top is made of cedar wood and the back and sides are made from mahogany. Rosewood is another popular alternation.

The wood type is the key factor deciding your guitar durability and playability. So think it carefully when choosing a guitar.

Body

I would prefer and recommend you to buy a solid cedar or spruce as it does not sound as dull as laminated wood or pressed one. Solid soundboards will deliver a clear and better tone and of course, a longer life cycle.

Sound

It seems apparent, but many people forget this factor when choosing a guitar, which should be the dominant factor. If possible, you should go to the guitar shop and check out the sound comprehensively, whether it sounds good to you or not. If not, you can go around Youtube and watch reviewers. But upon all, it is better if you can go to the shop.

Playability

This is one of the main elements that you should keep notice of. The feeling when you fret your hand  on the guitar neck is the playability. Normally, it is the action height or the intonation.

The action should not be too high or too low. And the intonation should be in the right place. That’s why you should be conscious.

Brand

We cannot say that only the popular can make great guitars. But well, I have to admit that it is a safe option if you choose a guitar from a reputed dealer. Purchasing a dupe can even cost you more in the long term.

Especially, if you decide to go online, research carefully the brand and models. Or else, you might cry later.

Terms Of Agreement

Purchasing a classical guitar under 500 is not a small number at all. At least it demonstrates that you are fully engaged in playing this instrument. Therefore, read the terms of agreement thoroughly, especially after sales services, delivery, discount,…

Should You Opt For Used Or Classical Guitar?

Buying a used guitar is definitely a better bargain if you are under a low budget. You can buy a high quality guitar with a price that could be just half of the store’s price. How appealing is it!

However, this could involve a lot of risk.  Be careful and try to avoid all the hazards. If possible, you should go check it out offline to further examine. If not, do not hesitate to ask the dealer carefully.

It would be best if there is a guarantee or some kind of return policy. Do not buy at some kind of sale program at flea market or at someone’s garage sale unless you are confident that you know how to check a guitar professionally.

If you are still dubious, I would like to introduce a Youtube video for you to better understand. This will help you to understand easier as this could use to choose a guitar under any price:

Here is a video for you to grab more information:

Conclusion: My Top Pick For Best Classical Guitars Under 500 

For reading this, you should know that this is not a simple task for me at all. Choosing 5 over 17 best classical guitars under 500 is really big brainstorming. All of 17 products have been examined carefully before reviewing so you can trust my review. But from my perspective and other elements such as sound, tone, outlook, playability,… here is my top 5.

No	Name	Image	Best For	Rating	Details
1	Yamaha CG122MCH Solid Cedar Top Classical Guitar		Best guitar for not to hurt your fingers		VIEW PRODUCT
2	Cordoba F7 Acoustic Nylon String Flamenco Guitar		Best guitar for warm tone		VIEW PRODUCT
3	Breedlove PURSUIT NYLON Pursuit Nylon Acoustic-Electric Guitar Natural		Best guitar for performers and recording purposes		VIEW PRODUCT
4	Antonio Giuliani Classical Rosewood Guitar Outfit (Clear) (CL-6) - Acoustic Guitar with Case and Accessories By Kennedy Violins		Best guitar bundles		VIEW PRODUCT
5	Cordoba C5-CET CD Thin Body Cutaway Classical Acoustic-Electric Nylon String Guitar, Iberia Series		Best guitar unique outlook		VIEW PRODUCT

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