Is It Worth Buying a Used Classical Guitar?

The market for traditional guitars is vast and varied. For some, the allure is in the history and craftsmanship of a vintage instrument. For others, a well-conditioned used guitar is a more accessible option. Let's explore the factors that make a used classical guitar worth considering.

A Bit of History: The Rise of the Classical Guitar

The classical guitar has a rich and storied history, beginning with the renowned Spanish guitarist and composer, Tomás Tomás Navarro Tomás Segovia in the 1960s and 1970s. His performances on the classical guitar brought it to the forefront of classical music and opened the doors for future talents such as Julian Bream and John Williams. They popularized works by Baroque masters like Johann Sebastian Bach and composers from the Romantic era, including Francisco Tárrega, Joaquin Rodrigo, and Manuel de Falla's transcriptions of Baroque pieces.

Back in the day, hundreds of people were inspired by these performances and decided to invest in a classical guitar. However, they soon discovered that playing this instrument is far more challenging than anticipated. Many of those initially purchased guitars remained unused, gathering dust in attics or under beds. Consequently, these instruments frequently come onto the market, offering seasoned musicians and beginners alike the opportunity to explore this rich tradition.

Vintage Guitars: A Pricey Proposition

When it comes to vintage Spanish-built guitars, the costs can be quite prohibitive. These beautifully crafted instruments are often priceless, reflecting the craftsmanship and legacy of the Spanish guitar-making tradition. Crafted over a century ago, these guitars hold immense historical and cultural value.

The Rise of Japanese Guitars

As the demand for classical guitars grew, Japanese manufacturers began to produce these instruments using the traditional Spanish methods. This new wave of Japanese guitars quickly made its mark in the market, offering a more affordable alternative to their more expensive Spanish counterparts. You can often find guitars made by famous Japanese brands such as Suzuki, Terado, and Kimbara for a fraction of the price of vintage guitars.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Guitar

When you're in the market for a used classical guitar, there are several key features to consider to ensure you're making a wise investment:

1. Fingerboard Material

A quick way to determine the quality of a guitar is by checking the fingerboard material. If it's made of ebony, you're dealing with an instrument that's considered top of the line. Ebony is a dense, durable wood that rarely wears, making it a sign of high quality. Check if the saddle is dressed and if the guitar has a solid top. Examine the grain on the soundboard; a fine and matched grain suggests a higher quality instrument. Look for a solid body by checking the join in the middle of the soundboard and ensuring the wood on the inside is the same.

2. Neck Construction

The guitar's neck should be one piece, as this indicates a superior instrument. Additionally, check for the absence of a join above the Spanish heel, as this adds to the instrument's quality. Inspection of the sound hole can provide valuable clues, as a solid body will show a consistent grain, while a laminated body will reveal a join. Moreover, check the kerfling (the piece of wood reinforcing the side and base joint). A notched kerfling typically signifies a hand-assembled instrument, while a plain kerfling shows it may have been pressed together.

3. Purfling

The purfling, or the treatment of the edges of the soundboard and bottom, can also indicate the quality of the instrument. More ornate purfling suggests more attention to detail and quality during the construction process.

Final Words

The final word when it comes to purchasing a used classical guitar lies in your hands (or more accurately, your fingers). The size and shape of your hands will significantly affect the feel and playability of a guitar with a thicker neck. A well-conditioned used guitar can offer both excellent sound and affordability, opening up the world of classical music to new players. Ultimately, the most important component of making beautiful music is the player, not necessarily the instrument. So, whether you're an experienced guitarist or a newcomer, a well-chosen used guitar can be a treasure to cherish and play.

Remember, good luck in your quest for the perfect classical guitar!