Acoustic or classical guitar?

Question

I'm interested in learning to play the guitar and just wanted to know how acoustic and classical guitars differ. I'm not really sure which I should learn as I've no musical experience. Any advice?

Answer 1

Another difference between acoustic and classical to keep in mind is the width of the neck.  Classicals have a consistent width while acoustics taper off (meaning the 1st fret isnt as wide as, say, the 12th fret).

If I play only my classical for a couple months, then switch to my acoustic, I find it hard to play some chords since I'm used to the extra room on the classical.

If you are just starting out, you may want a classical for the extra room.

Just something to keep in mind.

Answer 2

it depends on what kind of music u like.... if u like to play folk, pop etc i suggest u go for accoustic... classical is a bit technical & not very versatile...

Answer 3

As far as I'm aware of they are the same thing. I think acoustic just means that it's not amplified. I would advise you go into a music shop and ask them. They tend to be very good and trained on all their stock.

Answer 4

A classical guitar is a type of acoustic guitar.  I suspect the distinction you have in mind is between steel strung and nylon strung.  It depends a lot on what sort of stuff you want to play.  Also, although the thicker strings are all covered in a metal wire, whether steel or nylon strings are used, it is the core of the string that is different.

If you want to learn to play classical style, then you will need a good nylon strung guitar.  If you want to play a more folk/blues/pop oriented style, then a steel strung guitar is more likely to suit your needs.

Nylon strings are a little gentler on your fingers at first but, if you are serious about playing, you soon get used to steel strings anyway.  To make it easier to learn to play on steel strings, choose light grade strings (e.g. 10-47 - your guitar shop will know what that means) as they require less pressure and so don't make your fingers so sore.  You can always change strings again later when you are ready.

Have fun.  It really is worth the effort of learning.