Hello. I have been trying to find an all solid flamenco guitar as a begginer, but had some very bad luck with options due to international shipping issues since most are found in Spain and I live in Puerto Rico. Would you still recommend any of these despite being laminate back and sides? These are the only ones that make it to Puerto Rico. Also thought of the normal F7 besides the F7 Paco. Would love to hear youre thoughts.
Hi José, the most important thing is to have a guitar of sufficient quality to improve your playing with - so I wouldn't get too held back with only owning all-solid wood guitars. A guitar with laminate back and sides will still provide a great instrument to improve with. The first 15 years of my guitar playing were with instruments of laminate back and sides! I think both the normal F7 or F7 Paco are great instruments. It just depends on your preferences of the sound produced by the wood. The standard F7 has a spruce top with cypress back and sides, the F7 Paco model has a ceder top with rosewood back and sides. Try to find examples on RUclips (as you have done with my video here!) and see which sound you prefer. Thomann (a European dealer) has good sound examples and I shall leave you links to sound examples below. I hope this helps and let me know how you get on 😁 Cordoba F7 Flamenco: www.thomann.de/gb/cordoba_f7_flamenco.htm Cordoba F7 Paco Flamenco Guitar: www.thomann.de/gb/cordoba_f7_paco_flamenco_guitar.htm
@@FrancisGrant1 One of the most important aspects on flamenco guitars is the action at bridge. Any flamenco guitar with above 9 mm is absolutely inacceptable to learn with in order to the length of the nail plate for playing the i golpe above the 6th string. At 9 mm you need a minimum nail plate length of 16 mm which only few people have. Nothing about this in mentioned in the video. Why? Playability on flamenco guitars does not mean the action >at fretboard< is low; on flamencas this is a matter of course. The main focus is on the action at bridge. If both - authentical sound & low action at bridge (best is 7 to 8 mm) - is not given, then the guitar is useless. In order to these aspects I prefer one of the cheaper flamenco models by Camps or the Prudencio Saez 22 which are available around 800 € that fulfil both and come with all-solid woods.
Thanks for the review. I'm currently looking for my first Flamenca. I already played at a shop nearby the Cordoba F7 Flamenco and an Alhambra Iberia Ziricote. The Alhambra looks way more interesting, but the sound of the Cordoba F7 Flamenco pleased me a lot more. I think I'll go with the Cordoba. Thanks again!
Well, I thought I was sold on the Córdoba but, I think you convinced me to go with the Yamaha. Time and time again, Yamaha is my go too. Even my motorcycle is a Yamaha!
Great review, thanks! I'm in the market for a budget flamenco guitar and, based on this video, I'm leaning toward the Yamaha. Sounds a bit brighter and punchy. But both sound great! Thanks again.
Great comparison video! The Yamaha has a very Flamenco sound. Bright, loud, snappy, quick response. The Cordoba has a classical sound. I have cedar and spruce top guitars(classical) , depending on the piece I'm playing determines which top I'll use. If I'm going to play Flamenco, the Yamaha is what I'd go for.
Thanks a lot! 😁 interesting to hear your perspectives on this. And yes I agree that the best sounding guitar is related to what musical piece you are playing.
Thanks for sharing. The cordoba sounds much more mellow and pleasant all round. I would advise it for a more versatile player. If you only play flamenco I would go with the Yamaha.
Versatility is in the ear of the, uhhhh beholder ( player ) . Though the negra is better geared toward classical, the blanca is great for Mexican folk music, South American styles, and as a steel string alternative!
Thanks for the comparison, very nice playing. Yup- the Yama has that blanca snarl/growl and quicker decay of tones suggestive of my Sanchis Carpio flamenco guitar at 2.5 times less the cost. The Paco has a big sound via the IR back/sides though has longer tone sustain. Was hoping the Paco’s build as a negra would make it versatile for both flamenco/classical but it still leans more for classical. There’s another You Tube vid of the Paco itself by another performer- it really responds well to alzapua and picados, though requires a lot of planting and control to give it that snappy flamenco sound. The Yama responds well to rasgueados, golpe’s, and has that biting personality. It’s amazing how far flamenco guitar has come through brilliant players, but old school-wise it still resembles drumming with the added element of strumming/picking when used behind singers and dancers...
Took me some time to realize that Flamenco is 80% percussion with 20% flavor (scales). That‘s why the right hand is all important and one should concentrate on the percussion first when learning Flamenco.
My honest opinion. I can only speak from the experience I have had. I had 2 Cordoba F7's. BOTH never stayed in tune for any period of time no matter what I did. I bought one, sold it. I bought another thinking I may have gotten a bad one. Before I sold that one I bought a cheap Yamaha C40. I didn't want to go without a guitar. It was $158.00. I replaced the nut and saddle with bone and installed a Golpeador. I could throw it at the wall and it will still stay in tune and it sounds just as great as the 600.00 Cordoba with the new nut and saddle. I play a variety of styles and instruments for many years and the one thing I can clearly say without any reserves is that Yamaha ALWAYS made great stuff. If you want one of these guitars featured in the video, buy the Yamaha.
Thanks for sharing your experiences! Shame to hear about that about the Cordoba F7s... I wonder if that was a QC issue or something. You can't go wrong with a Yamaha C40 though!
Hahaha good answer, this is me too! Glad to hear you are enjoying your Cordoba Fusion 12 Natural, I've never tried this - but hopefully I will soon (once everything opens back up again)
Thanks so much for this man, now I know exactly what I need. That Cordoba can definitely fill in for the classical I want to learn as well as just being a well rounded flamenco guitar. Thanks again
Really glad to hear this helped you out! Thanks for commenting 😄 yeah this is the exact reason I bought the Cordoba, I wanted something reasonably priced to handle classical and flamenco pieces (and bossa nova!)
I actually own the Cordoba F7 and I am quite satisfied with this guitar. As a flamenco/classical guitarist I have chosen this model because of the versatility and the playability. The Savarez classical strings (factory strings) are offering a warm and clean tone that fits perfectly with rondeña tuning (used in flamenco). But after months of trial, I would prefer a blanca for the brilliant and « buzzy » sound you have with the Yamaha or other Cypress made guitars... As this guitar is a negra i suggest to put high tension strings but you will not have the typical flamenco sound...
Seems to me like the cordoba isn’t designed for the style of playing you were using, the cordoba sounded much better for classical and worse at the various styles of flamenco you were using. Great playing, I just bought the Yamaha recently and I’m very happy with it 😊
I feel that the Cordoba handles flamenco well - it is a flamenco guitar, it just isn't as punchy and aggressive as the Yamaha. Glad to hear you're happy with the Yamaha.... such a beautiful instrument, thanks for checking this video out and happy playing :-D
Thanks for the great review, very helpful ! I ended up having to choose between a Cordoba F7 and the Yamaha CG182SF. I owned and played them both and I must say they are both great value for money. I really liked the comfortable feel of the thinner and lighter F7 body, but prefer the natural wood of the Yamaha. Both are easy to play, the Cordoba just a bit more. From sound I like the mellow of the F7 but it's lacking the punch and clarity that the Yamaha has. The F7 has an adjustable truss rod fwiw, but this is only a nice to have feature. The biggest problem with the F7 for me however was its tuning instability, and, I had the experience that some notes drowned when playing certain chords. Overall a tough choice, but I ended up selling the Cordoba and keeping the Yamaha.
Thanks Benjamin, glad it helped! You should be able to get either guitar quite cheap when buying second hand / used. Try and get yourself one! Happy playing 🎸
I liked yamaha for the huge bass that giving some adrenaline while playing bulerias, for the cordoba I liked it for rhythm.. good video u made me take a choice
Yamha is "blanca" type flamenco guitar, Cordoba is "negra".Typically the "negra" type is sonically closer to a classical guitar with a spruce top. So It would be better to compare blanca with blanca , negra with negra. For example Yamaha CG182SF with Ortega R270 or Martinez MFG-cs (or cheapper -AS) etc but the movie is quite good! Which guitar is more comfortable to play in your opinion?
Im really interested in the Paco F7 as someone with a classical background that also wants to learn flamenco. My goal is basically to play both, however im not at the point where i would be good enough to go about and buy a full on flamenco guitar. Either way, It seems the Paco F7 is more versatile, Its basically a classical guitar with lowered action and other features that make it possible to play flamenco music. I would think unless a person is going to play with flamenco dancers and other loud percussive instruments, there is no point in getting a Spruce/Cypress flamenco guitar. I guess that's the beauty of classical guitar, its designed to be played solo.
The Cg182SF is the best classical/flamenco guitar I have ever had, at this price point it is amazing. Very responsive and not too treblish. When you hammer at it it screams "present!" and when you play softly it also is ready for it. Very colourful sound.
Good video, thanks. I would have expected to prefer the Córdoba, being ‘Spanish’, but having heard them I must say the Yamaha sounds better to me - fuller, richer.
What I've noticed is that to me the very percussion sound on the top sound nicer on the Yamaha and that strumming to me also sounded better on the Yamaha. The Córdoba tends to sound muddy with its dominant basses (despite its thinner body). But that bass really made the Bach prelude at the end of the video sound nicer on the Córdoba.
I'll be getting the Yamaha because it is a great value instrument. I wish it was accoustic-electric, but since I have a nice mic I can just mic it and boom!!!
Do it!!! Because the price is so good you could always install a custom acoustic-electric pickup system yourself... but yeah, just use a mic - that's my preference!! I always find pickup systems too 'twangy', they don't capture the real sound of the guitar to me. Happy playing!! :-)
I added pick up to my Admira F4, the instrument lost all of it's quality, so I took it out and am now going for a different guitar, but I have chosen the Cordoba CK, as I play a lot of rumba as well as flamenco. I also have an Admira Cordoba which a guy from Heulva played, when I was living in Seville, and he had smoke coming off it, and he said, after bout 6 hours straight playing, 'That's a great guitar'. Unforch, I've never ever got anywhere near like the sounds and literal tenacity out of it.
Thanks a lot for saying mate! You can definitely do this though, just make a start and enjoy the process. I've made an online course specifically for people like you, check it out: ruclips.net/video/rg6zNiqZ8Is/видео.html
@@FrancisGrant1 fantastic mate, will do, I’m going to but myself a flamenco guitar and Iv seen the Yamaha cg182sf the in guitar guitar here in the uk, it’s on sale at £479:00p do you think it’s worth it, it was £630 I think
@@jamlatts90 great and just drop me a line on Instagram if you need any tips on playing yeah? instagram.com/the_talent_hacker/ That's about average price. Unfortunately, that model sells out quite quickly so the price has gone up in recent years. I actually got mine for £350 years ago and from time to time, you still see it being sold new for 350 to 400. Sometimes you can get lucky on reverb.co.uk But 479 I would say is about average. Be sure to check out second hand flamenco guitars on Gumtree too, there some nice models being sold around the London area right now
@@FrancisGrant1 hi Francis, thank you for advice, I sure will have a look on gumtree, I’m In Newcastle upon Tyne so I could get one sent if it’s seems a good deal. is the Yamaha I good guitar to learn on?
@@jamlatts90 Yeah they sometimes have good second hand flamenco guitars for sale in Edinburgh too, keep an eye out. The Yamaha is a great guitar to learn on, it's the guitar that I learned to play flamenco guitar on!
I have both a Yamaha CG-172SF and a Cordoba F-7 Paco. My go to everyday flamenco guitar is the Yamaha. Both have been refined by lowering the action, adding a more sturdy golpeador, and the Yamaha fitted with a bone saddle. I must admit that the Yamaha has developed an excessive neck bow, which matters little, as I normally use a cejilla. As for construction, the Cordoba wins hands down. I prefer the sound ot the Yamaha blanco!
Thanks a lot for leaving your experiences here, Roy. Very helpful. Kind of disappointing to hear about the neck bow on the Yamaha. The nut fell of my Yamaha once and needed re-fitting.
Based on what I could hear the Yamaha is the more authentic of the two. The Cordoba has a more classical tone, which I expected. Thanks, mate, for the review. It helped a lot in my decision making process.
Hello francis , which guitar is better for flamenco and have loud sound and full tone Cordoba f7 flamenco Or Cordoba f7 Paco Flamenco I hope you answer very soon
Hey Ahmed, both of these guitars are pretty similar in my opinion - so it really depends on personal preference. If you prefer lively and bright tones, go for the 'standard' model. If you prefer more full-bodied and deeper tones, go for the Paco model. Hope this helps!
Yamaha bought out Cordoba. They both sound nice. It comes down to the style and sound you wish to achieve. I have heard some great guitarist that play flamenco make the Cordoba sound incredible.
This is slightly off-topic but do you think the Paco would do with with Bossa Nova? I love the idea of lower action, slightly comfier neck and better projection. I'm coming from Steel string and electrics, so I think a Flamenco style guitar will translate better for what I'm interested in. It should still retain the mellow tone of Cedar but have excellent projection imo. I've not tested this theory yet though.
Hey Manfried, good question. I think in terms of playability, the Cordoba would tick all the boxes for bossa. And sound wise, it should sound punchy but well rounded. The only worry is that, I think it would lack the bass and volume a bit. I used to play a lot of bossa and I tend to prefer using my Juan Montes for that, as the larger body really lend a lot to the tone here.
Have you tried the Yamaha cg172sf? Looking at getting my first Flamenco and not sure if it will be that, Cordoba F7, Cordoba F7 Paco, or Kremona Rosa Morena. Awesome playing
Hey Ryan! Thanks a lot and I am very happy to hear that you're getting your first flamenco guitar! The Yamaha CG172SF is just the previous model of the CG182SF, if I am not mistaken. They are basically the same guitar. I would recommend the Cordoba F7 Paco over the Cordoba F7. I am not too familiar with Kremona but have heard good things about them online. Ultimately, whatever you choose is personal preference... how the guitar sounds and how the guitar feels to you. The best thing you can do it get your hands on them, if possible. You'll know what is best for you when you get the chance to try them in person.
I would say that they are superior, yes! I have never been a huge fan of Admira guitars. I've tried a few of their different models over the years, both classical and flamenco. They are not bad but not great either.
Is there a budget guitar similar to the yamaha? I love that raw bright flamenco sound. Im in California but cant seem to find this yamaha model used. Any other popular model with similar sound in a budget ? I think its that blanca sound what i like
That's a shame you can't find any used Yamaha's around your area, as that is my top recommendation. Alternatively, you could look for a used Admira F4 blanca, used Alhambra 3F, or used Cordoba F7 blanca. I reviewed the Cordoba F7 negra in this video but there is a blanca version you could consider and they do tend to have a lot more of those in the US
Stopped by after a Brandon Acker face off where he guessed the the Yamaha as the more expensive guitar. To the credit of Brandon Acker; the well established seller set up the less expensive Yamaha to the best it could be for regular play-ability; while the more expensive guitar came from a collection and hadn't been used very much. This was the seller trying to pull a fast one on Brandon. I was very impressed with the Yamaha myself.
Thanks for stopping by Will! Yes you really cannot fault Yamaha classical guitars, they punch well above their weight. It doesn't surprise me that someone could mistake them for being worth much more!
how is the action at the nut ? nice and low already? how about the height at the 12th fret on the low e ? under 2.00 mm ? that is the ideal, it is not about a player preference, really the ideal height is that low
The height of the action is a player preference 😅 lower action doesn't always equal a better guitar or indicate a better build quality 😂 You see lots of tablao players who want to really 'dig' into the guitar when performing with dancers and other performers in the streets, here it's nice to have a slightly higher action to facilitate this style. Whereas if you are playing through a microphone or amplifier, or if you are more of a solo player, it's nice to try lower actions. Having played tons of guitars with varying degrees of action (see other videos on my channel) each luthier has their preference, depending on the preference of the player and the style that they play. You sometimes see super expensive guitars with higher actions (around 3 mm) because of this. Anyway, food for thought. But my Cordoba had a lower action than the Yamaha.
@@FrancisGrant1 For Flamenco, Rumba it does. José Ramirez guitars from the year 1904 until the World War used 1.6 mm on the 12th fret on low E and no matter how much volume it may lose, it gains to faster playbility and growl to play rumbas for ex with three, four, five guitarist together like gypsies.. to play like that requires very low action, 2,5mm is not low action as those companies want to make customers to believe.
@diogomartinsmota5478 I can't measure it because I don't own it anymore unfortunately! But I meant lowest overall, in comparison to the Yamaha. I think it's a bit strange to compare luthier guitars from a hundred years ago against factory built guitars from the 2000s.... playing styles and building techniques have kinda changed in these times. In practical terms, it's like comparing apples and oranges. But anyway, that's interesting to hear about. Thanks for commenting your experiences, I'll have to go and learn more about it myself
@@FrancisGrant1Apples and Oranges is comparing a Spruce Top with a Cedar Top guitar, that is what you did. I do get the point of comparing two different flamenco guitars within the same price range but apples with apples would be a Yamaha CG182SF vs Cordoba F7 Flamenco Iberia (both same price range) not Yamaha CG182SF vs Cordoba F7 Paco Flamenco Iberia. I would be inclined towards the Yamaha for the percussive and raw tone like you said in video. If the Yamaha has a higher action than the Cordoba F7 Paco it leads me to believe that the Cordoba F7 Paco Flamenco Iberia could also be lower than the Yamaha which for fast playing is better than high action.
Thank you for this, the Yamaha sounds great and probably is what I'm looking for. What is the name of the classical piece you played btw, I know I've heard it before but one of those things I've just never gotten the name of but it sounds very pretty.
Hi Kiran, thanks for watching and commenting! Yes I used the Blue Microphones Yeti Nano to record this. I actually made a RUclips video all about this microphone, here it is: ruclips.net/video/jaOqNVZCwXA/видео.html
Great comparison. I think if you are going mainly for flamenco the Yamaha wins but I can see the Cordoba being more versatile. You're right about the Cordoba being quieter. For the price, they're are both good deals.
Thanks for commenting mate, yeah totally agree with that. Both of these are great for the price, I actually bought this Cordoba second hand for £200 here in the UK
@@mohddalibinzali1165 Expensive is a relative term but being as these guitars are right at the lower end of the cost range, I would say they are cheap. If you are looking to buy a classical guitar for $100 to £130, I would recommend looking for either a second hand Alvarez, or a Cordoba C5. You can't go wrong with a new Yamaha C40 either.
No the Cordoba F7 Paco is not classical... it is a hybrid with flamenco in mind... hence why it is named after Paco de Lucia, the greatest flamenco guitarist of all time 😅 www.cordobaguitars.com/guitars/f7-paco/
Ahhhhh OK yes so the standard F7 has a different wood combination, it is a spruce top with cypress back and sides... in other words, it is a typical blanca. As mentioned in the video, the F7 Paco is a negra, it is ceder top and Indian rosewood back and sides. As both the standard F7 and Yamaha 82SF are blancas, both sound bright, snappy, and punchy. Perfect for cutting through the mix and getting that traditional Spanish guitar sound, they sound perfect for lively classical pieces, or for flamenco fandangos, alegrias, etc. However, because the Cordoba has a slightly thinner body, it will lack the volume of the Yamaha. It's a tough call because personally, I prefer the feel of the Cordoba but the sound of the Yamaha. The Cordoba feels great in my hands, the neck is very comfortable. But Yamaha did an amazing job with capturing that authentic flamenco sound. Every player is different and they have their own preferences... to make the right decision for you, ideally you will need to try these guitars out in person.
@@FrancisGrant1 great many thanks for info, that was helpful. I like your presentations very accessible. I noticed on RUclips there is a Yamaha 82SF and 72SF is one a newer flamenco and update? I’m feeling into what to try out
@@chrisbaron70 No problem, Christopher - glad that helps out! 😁 Yes the Yamaha 172SF is the older model, the Yamaha 182SF is the newest version. I can't tell any differences between them though, they look the same spec!
Hello :) Francis did you have chance to play on these models besides Yamaha ? Alhambra 3f, Admira 4f, Yamaha CG182SF, Cordoba F7, Camps M-5, Trying to chose from these ,but the problem is that in my home town I can get only Cordoba F7. Can any one share their opinion ?
Hi Lukas! Guitar preferences are subjective but I am not such a fan of Alhambra, Admira, or Camps. All the models that I have tried under 1000 have been quite disappointing for me. The Yamaha and Cordoba are better (again, in my opinion). I am welcome to hear other's opinions though so please comment here if you can help.
As far as I can tell, there are no differences. The CG172SF was just the first version of this model and then somewhere along the line, Yamaha changed the name. The spec looks exactly the same though
I'm going to buy a new guitar and I really don't know what guitar I can buy, I study classical music but I'm also into the flamenco music, For an intermediate student what would be better?
Thanks for commenting! When I first started playing flamenco guitar I was in the same situation as you, I had already studied classical music for several years. And to be honest, either of these would be suitable for you. You will likely find the Cordoba less of a transition from what you are used to. You may find the sound of the Yamaha a bit thin at first, as coming from classical, we aren't so familiar with traditional flamenco guitar tones. Both are easy to play but the neck of the Cordoba is slightly thinner.
Why do you hook your thumb over the top of the fret board , when playing in the first position ? So then you have to reposition it behind the middle of the fretboard when playing higher up ?
It's a remnant of all the different styles I've played over the years ruclips.net/video/YuxRhCXBDM0/видео.html The position is useful if you want to fret with your thumb, which is used in steel-string fingerstyle, particularly Celtic fingerstyle. I don't do it so much anymore (look at recent videos), now that I play exclusively flamenco, but it doesn't have such a big impact anyway on your playing. It would concern me if I was a professional guitarist who plays concerts every other day and practices hours every day, but I'm just a hobbyist
@@FrancisGrant1 Yes sir , old habits are hard to break. I was fortunate to take lessons from a classical guitar grad student here at my local university thereby avoiding the pitfalls of self teaching. Never tried to play flamenco, don't care for the noisy and repetitive nature of it.
Amazing video Francis. Im planning on buying the F7 Paco, the only issue I "hear" is that the bulerias and solea might sound a little muddier compared to the yamaha which has that really short attack and higher treble frequency response. Would that be an accurate guesstimation?
Thanks a lot, Kunal 🙏🏻 yes my opinion is in agreement with that. One recommendation to try and resolve this would be to use strings with a bright sound to compensate for the lack of trebles. If you are around the Americas, order the Sonatina Equinox Titanium strings, or if you are in Europe, order the Knobloch Actives Carbon. You should get a great sound using these strings. I recorded this particular video using the D'Addario Pro-Arté Composite and I've since learned that other string options can give substantial changes to the guitar tone!
Surprised I haven’t run across this vid before, YT algorithm finally popped it up. Don’t have an F7, have a C7-ce RW/cedar strung w a combo of La Bella 2001 light & med strings for classical & “Spanish style” really like the sound. Been thinking on an F7 Paco, or perhaps a Tak, I’ll keep the D'Addarios Blacks in mind to give a try if/when I hit the buy button.
Glad it did in the end! Thanks for watching and commenting Jesse! Yes have a go with the D'Addario composite and see if you like the sound. Maybe not as sweet sounding as the La Bella but they do have a powerful attack
Hello, my personal take is the F7 is easier on the hands. This is subjective but I've always found the shape of the neck on the Yamaha a bit uncomfortable. I have pretty large hands too.
Does anyone have any experience on the Alhambra 5FP? Having trouble making a decision due to not having a dealers with flamenco guitars in Romania. I am like both the sound of the Blanca and negra. I am a beginner but do not want another boxing sounding guitar like I have now. I want a t least a solid top if not all solid wood. Just wrestling with the idea of a solid wood or only solid top . Is it better to invest in a quality solid wood guitar rather than keep buying and selling as my skills improve. The guitars I have narrowed it down to based on what I have seen or heard reviews on : 1.Alhambra 5FP or 10 FP Negra 2.Alhambra F8 or F10 blanca 3. Cordoba F7 or F7 Paco model 4. Juan Montes Blanca or negra 5. Francisco Navarro student model blanca or negra Any advice or suggestion welcome. Thank you in advance Cheers, Ted
Hi Rick. So my understanding was that the CG172SF was simply the earlier version of the CG182SF. I don't think there were any major differences between the two models... but if you see a CG172SF being sold, it probably has just been around for longer than any CG182SF models. Maybe some other people here may know more and will reply?
Hello Muhemmed! A lot of cheaper guitars are constructed in China, regardless of the brand. As for Yamaha, they are a Japanese brand and do have factories in Japan.... but they also have factories in China, Indonesia, and Taiwan. So it could be anything.
Hey mate, so it depends on what you played jazz on previously? If you're an electric guitar player, crossover style Spanish guitars work well... a lot of electric guitar players seem to prefer crossover guitars because of the general feel and nut width. Cordoba make great crossover guitars, such as the C10 or the Fusion, for example. If your background is playing jazz on acoustic guitars then in my opinion, the F7 Paco modelled here would be great, provided that you are happy with the wood combination and the sound... it's personal preference. Hope this helps!
To my taste i like the Yamaha the better. Still i would like to ask you, would you recommend that guitar for playing purely classical and having an enough loud sound at least on small venues? Greetings and thank you for the video.
Hi Javier! I have played a lot of classical music on the Yamaha and it's OK, not amazing, but it does the job. I am usually left slightly dissatisfied with the fullness of the sound for classical pieces. If you leave me your email, I can send you some of my privately recorded classical music using the Yamaha, up to you
I played for years with a fellow andalusian who had a blanca, so I was looking for that. But hearing the two side by side, the negra is what I have in my mind for sound. Thanks! Regards
What is 1000? In Japan, this instrument costs 39000 yen ($ 368/ €325). The sound balance is good, and I think it is enough for beginners. However, I like Cordoba F7 Paco.
Thank you very much for comparison. IMHO Yamaha by far better as a flamenco guitar. Sound is more balanced with a classical flamenco bass, exactly what I am searching in a great nylon guitar. I hate when bass is resonating in a classical guitar, like an A open string in Yamaha c70.
Hi Alexey, really glad this comparison is helpful to you - thanks for checking it out. The Yamaha really does capture that traditional raw flamenco sound, quite incredible given its price!
Among the many guitars i have i own a similar YAMAHA CG 182 SF ;but your has a more voluminous sound than my same YAMAHA , not all sound the same of the same brand , i like your YAMAHA more . It's important to have a luck too on the acquired ...
Hey Giampiero, thanks for commenting your experiences! Interesting that your guitar sounded different, I hadn't really thought about differences within a model before. I guess you just have to try it out and see which ones have the higher build quality. Thanks for watching and take care!
To me Personally…. I own a Cordoba F7, and a Rodriguez Cedar/Rosewood. And while I adore my Rodriguez Model A-cut, I feel the Yamaha had a much bette rich live sound
Thanks. I'm just beginning to learn to play in my early 20s now, and pieces like that remind me of why i decided to pick up the guitar, and help keep me motivated, too.
I have always used D'Adarrio EJ 45s on my yamaha 182f. How do the composites compare ? I feel I could use a little extra tension on the 650mm scale but don't want to go to heavy gauge strings. Your thoughts please.
I have been a big fan of the D'Adarrio composites for years as I love the feel and sound. You get a great response and attack from striking the strings. Rasgueados and picado feel great. But then recently I tried Equinox Titanium medium-tension nylon strings and they feel way better for me. Also, not that I know enough to conclusively have a say on this, but a number of people who are way more knowledgeable than me have commented that high-tension strings are not so good for your guitar over the years... I think the strain can gradually warp the wood. Anyway, after several years I shall now be trying out the Knobloch medium-tension nylon strings for a while 👍🏻
@@FrancisGrant1 Thanks for your comments. I also would not put heavy gauge strings on the 182f,with its very slim neck, and also the risk of lifting the top over time. may try a set of Knobloch. Also there is a real risk of getting fakes with the EJ45s these days.
Thank you!! These strings are the D'ADDARIO Pro-Arté Composite Core Custom Tension If you want to see another video where I test these strings, see here: ruclips.net/video/dtxFEJfVgm0/видео.html
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
Hello. I have been trying to find an all solid flamenco guitar as a begginer, but had some very bad luck with options due to international shipping issues since most are found in Spain and I live in Puerto Rico. Would you still recommend any of these despite being laminate back and sides? These are the only ones that make it to Puerto Rico. Also thought of the normal F7 besides the F7 Paco. Would love to hear youre thoughts.
Hi José, the most important thing is to have a guitar of sufficient quality to improve your playing with - so I wouldn't get too held back with only owning all-solid wood guitars. A guitar with laminate back and sides will still provide a great instrument to improve with. The first 15 years of my guitar playing were with instruments of laminate back and sides!
I think both the normal F7 or F7 Paco are great instruments. It just depends on your preferences of the sound produced by the wood. The standard F7 has a spruce top with cypress back and sides, the F7 Paco model has a ceder top with rosewood back and sides. Try to find examples on RUclips (as you have done with my video here!) and see which sound you prefer. Thomann (a European dealer) has good sound examples and I shall leave you links to sound examples below. I hope this helps and let me know how you get on 😁
Cordoba F7 Flamenco: www.thomann.de/gb/cordoba_f7_flamenco.htm
Cordoba F7 Paco Flamenco Guitar: www.thomann.de/gb/cordoba_f7_paco_flamenco_guitar.htm
no
laminate woods come from satan
its like frozen leftover food...
(much worse, since we talk a permanent object and not a consumable)
😂 😂
@@kanker5256 😂
@@FrancisGrant1 One of the most important aspects on flamenco guitars is the action at bridge. Any flamenco guitar with above 9 mm is absolutely inacceptable to learn with in order to the length of the nail plate for playing the i golpe above the 6th string. At 9 mm you need a minimum nail plate length of 16 mm which only few people have. Nothing about this in mentioned in the video. Why? Playability on flamenco guitars does not mean the action >at fretboard< is low; on flamencas this is a matter of course. The main focus is on the action at bridge. If both - authentical sound & low action at bridge (best is 7 to 8 mm) - is not given, then the guitar is useless. In order to these aspects I prefer one of the cheaper flamenco models by Camps or the Prudencio Saez 22 which are available around 800 € that fulfil both and come with all-solid woods.
I have one of the Yamaha and you made me appreciate it even more
really glad to hear that Suzy 😁 thanks for watching and commenting this 🙏
Thanks for the review. I'm currently looking for my first Flamenca. I already played at a shop nearby the Cordoba F7 Flamenco and an Alhambra Iberia Ziricote. The Alhambra looks way more interesting, but the sound of the Cordoba F7 Flamenco pleased me a lot more. I think I'll go with the Cordoba. Thanks again!
Well, I thought I was sold on the Córdoba but, I think you convinced me to go with the Yamaha. Time and time again, Yamaha is my go too. Even my motorcycle is a Yamaha!
Great review, thanks! I'm in the market for a budget flamenco guitar and, based on this video, I'm leaning toward the Yamaha. Sounds a bit brighter and punchy. But both sound great! Thanks again.
Thanks Jeff! Your comment is much appreciated, glad to hear the video helped out! You will be very happy with the Yamaha :-)
Great comparison video!
The Yamaha has a very Flamenco sound. Bright, loud, snappy, quick response. The Cordoba has a classical sound. I have cedar and spruce top guitars(classical) , depending on the piece I'm playing determines which top I'll use. If I'm going to play Flamenco, the Yamaha is what I'd go for.
Thanks a lot! 😁 interesting to hear your perspectives on this. And yes I agree that the best sounding guitar is related to what musical piece you are playing.
Thanks for sharing. The cordoba sounds much more mellow and pleasant all round. I would advise it for a more versatile player. If you only play flamenco I would go with the Yamaha.
Many thanks for your comment and advice!
Versatility is in the ear of the, uhhhh beholder ( player ) . Though the negra is better geared toward classical, the blanca is great for Mexican folk music, South American styles, and as a steel string alternative!
Thanks for the comparison, very nice playing. Yup- the Yama has that blanca snarl/growl and quicker decay of tones suggestive of my Sanchis Carpio flamenco guitar at 2.5 times less the cost. The Paco has a big sound via the IR back/sides though has longer tone sustain. Was hoping the Paco’s build as a negra would make it versatile for both flamenco/classical but it still leans more for classical. There’s another You Tube vid of the Paco itself by another performer- it really responds well to alzapua and picados, though requires a lot of planting and control to give it that snappy flamenco sound. The Yama responds well to rasgueados, golpe’s, and has that biting personality. It’s amazing how far flamenco guitar has come through brilliant players, but old school-wise it still resembles drumming with the added element of strumming/picking when used behind singers and dancers...
Hi Hannah, thanks a lot for leaving your thoughts - agree with a lot of this 😁
Took me some time to realize that Flamenco is 80% percussion with 20% flavor (scales). That‘s why the right hand is all important and one should concentrate on the percussion first when learning Flamenco.
My honest opinion. I can only speak from the experience I have had. I had 2 Cordoba F7's. BOTH never stayed in tune for any period of time no matter what I did. I bought one, sold it. I bought another thinking I may have gotten a bad one. Before I sold that one I bought a cheap Yamaha C40. I didn't want to go without a guitar. It was $158.00. I replaced the nut and saddle with bone and installed a Golpeador. I could throw it at the wall and it will still stay in tune and it sounds just as great as the 600.00 Cordoba with the new nut and saddle. I play a variety of styles and instruments for many years and the one thing I can clearly say without any reserves is that Yamaha ALWAYS made great stuff. If you want one of these guitars featured in the video, buy the Yamaha.
Thanks for sharing your experiences! Shame to hear about that about the Cordoba F7s... I wonder if that was a QC issue or something. You can't go wrong with a Yamaha C40 though!
i dont think so maybe u pick bad ones ..i had a cordoba C1M and she stay in tune really good and its only 150$ ..the 600$ cordoba must be much better.
Even after 4 years, this is so much of a help. I wouldn't have been able to understand if it weren't for you. Thanks alot
So happy to hear that, very glad that this helped you! Thank you for commenting! Take care
Both!!! But I want the Yamaha. I already have a cordoba fusion 12 natural and I love it!
Hahaha good answer, this is me too! Glad to hear you are enjoying your Cordoba Fusion 12 Natural, I've never tried this - but hopefully I will soon (once everything opens back up again)
Thanks so much for this man, now I know exactly what I need. That Cordoba can definitely fill in for the classical I want to learn as well as just being a well rounded flamenco guitar. Thanks again
Really glad to hear this helped you out! Thanks for commenting 😄 yeah this is the exact reason I bought the Cordoba, I wanted something reasonably priced to handle classical and flamenco pieces (and bossa nova!)
I actually own the Cordoba F7 and I am quite satisfied with this guitar. As a flamenco/classical guitarist I have chosen this model because of the versatility and the playability. The Savarez classical strings (factory strings) are offering a warm and clean tone that fits perfectly with rondeña tuning (used in flamenco). But after months of trial, I would prefer a blanca for the brilliant and « buzzy » sound you have with the Yamaha or other Cypress made guitars... As this guitar is a negra i suggest to put high tension strings but you will not have the typical flamenco sound...
Cordoba Stays true to the definition of flameco! It's loud, lower-mid boosted and pleasing tone!
Glad to hear your thoughts 🙏🏻 I agree! I really love that mid-range fullness
They are both good sounding guitars: each has its own distinctive character that is pleasant to the ear. I'd like to own both.
Agreed!
Seems to me like the cordoba isn’t designed for the style of playing you were using, the cordoba sounded much better for classical and worse at the various styles of flamenco you were using. Great playing, I just bought the Yamaha recently and I’m very happy with it 😊
I feel that the Cordoba handles flamenco well - it is a flamenco guitar, it just isn't as punchy and aggressive as the Yamaha. Glad to hear you're happy with the Yamaha.... such a beautiful instrument, thanks for checking this video out and happy playing :-D
Thanks for the great review, very helpful ! I ended up having to choose between a Cordoba F7 and the Yamaha CG182SF. I owned and played them both and I must say they are both great value for money.
I really liked the comfortable feel of the thinner and lighter F7 body, but prefer the natural wood of the Yamaha. Both are easy to play, the Cordoba just a bit more. From sound I like the mellow of the F7 but it's lacking the punch and clarity that the Yamaha has. The F7 has an adjustable truss rod fwiw, but this is only a nice to have feature. The biggest problem with the F7 for me however was its tuning instability, and, I had the experience that some notes drowned when playing certain chords. Overall a tough choice, but I ended up selling the Cordoba and keeping the Yamaha.
Nice and informative video. I am getting the Cordoba. Both are excellent.
Really glad this was useful, thanks for commenting and enjoy the Cordoba 😁
Thank you for the comparison test. I would buy the cheaper one, because both tones sound just great! Thanks!!!
Thanks Benjamin, glad it helped! You should be able to get either guitar quite cheap when buying second hand / used. Try and get yourself one! Happy playing 🎸
I have been looking at these two guitars online and of course, sound helps make a final decision. Thanks for helping me make a final decision.
what is your decision
@@Foxy988 Cordoba F7
You're welcome 😁 really glad to hear this helped you out, hope you are happy with the Cordoba!
Hi there just wanted to ask after all this time, how are you liking your F7? I would appreciate your thoughts, thanks!
thanks you i have the Cordoba F7 Paco, pick it up 3 months ago was wander if i should have look at Yamaha but now i am glade the chose i made .
Glad you're happy with your choice 😁 it's a great guitar, thanks for commenting!
I have the Yamaha 172SF and it is my go to guitar for everything. Best $350 I've spent in a long time.
Best 350 you'll ever spend!
I will go with the yamaha
I liked yamaha for the huge bass that giving some adrenaline while playing bulerias, for the cordoba I liked it for rhythm.. good video u made me take a choice
Thanks. Nice explain and beautiful play. God bless you.
Much appreciated! Glad this was useful. Take care!
Yamha is "blanca" type flamenco guitar, Cordoba is "negra".Typically the "negra" type is sonically closer to a classical guitar with a spruce top. So It would be better to compare blanca with blanca , negra with negra. For example Yamaha CG182SF with Ortega R270 or Martinez MFG-cs (or cheapper -AS) etc but the movie is quite good!
Which guitar is more comfortable to play in your opinion?
Great demo!
Thank you so much, glad you like it! Really appreciate your comment 😁
Im really interested in the Paco F7 as someone with a classical background that also wants to learn flamenco. My goal is basically to play both, however im not at the point where i would be good enough to go about and buy a full on flamenco guitar. Either way, It seems the Paco F7 is more versatile, Its basically a classical guitar with lowered action and other features that make it possible to play flamenco music. I would think unless a person is going to play with flamenco dancers and other loud percussive instruments, there is no point in getting a Spruce/Cypress flamenco guitar. I guess that's the beauty of classical guitar, its designed to be played solo.
The Cg182SF is the best classical/flamenco guitar I have ever had, at this price point it is amazing. Very responsive and not too treblish. When you hammer at it it screams "present!" and when you play softly it also is ready for it. Very colourful sound.
Well it is a pure flamenco guitar not classical, i say ur lucky to have that guitar
thanks for the info.. where is this yamaha flamenco made? thanks in advance..
Excellent review! Thank You!
Good video, thanks. I would have expected to prefer the Córdoba, being ‘Spanish’, but having heard them I must say the Yamaha sounds better to me - fuller, richer.
Victor Jones I know, hence the apostrophes, I was referring to the style
What I've noticed is that to me the very percussion sound on the top sound nicer on the Yamaha and that strumming to me also sounded better on the Yamaha. The Córdoba tends to sound muddy with its dominant basses (despite its thinner body). But that bass really made the Bach prelude at the end of the video sound nicer on the Córdoba.
Thanks for leaving your thoughts! Yes I like the percussive sound of the golpe on the Yamaha too
I'll be getting the Yamaha because it is a great value instrument. I wish it was accoustic-electric, but since I have a nice mic I can just mic it and boom!!!
Do it!!! Because the price is so good you could always install a custom acoustic-electric pickup system yourself... but yeah, just use a mic - that's my preference!! I always find pickup systems too 'twangy', they don't capture the real sound of the guitar to me. Happy playing!! :-)
I added pick up to my Admira F4, the instrument lost all of it's quality, so I took it out and am now going for a different guitar, but I have chosen the Cordoba CK, as I play a lot of rumba as well as flamenco. I also have an Admira Cordoba which a guy from Heulva played, when I was living in Seville, and he had smoke coming off it, and he said, after bout 6 hours straight playing, 'That's a great guitar'. Unforch, I've never ever got anywhere near like the sounds and literal tenacity out of it.
Excellent Yamaha Guitar .... Colourful , More Sustain and Level of Tones . 🎼🎼🎼🎼🎼🎼🎼🎸✨✨✨✨✨✨🇨🇦
Ohhhhh yes indeed 😁🎵🔥 sending my regards to Canada, is it? I spent a year living there, a beautiful country
I would love to learn flamenco guitar, however I don’t have a clue how to get started, you sound fantastic on these instruments
Thanks a lot for saying mate! You can definitely do this though, just make a start and enjoy the process. I've made an online course specifically for people like you, check it out: ruclips.net/video/rg6zNiqZ8Is/видео.html
@@FrancisGrant1 fantastic mate, will do, I’m going to but myself a flamenco guitar and Iv seen the Yamaha cg182sf the in guitar guitar here in the uk, it’s on sale at £479:00p do you think it’s worth it, it was £630 I think
@@jamlatts90 great and just drop me a line on Instagram if you need any tips on playing yeah? instagram.com/the_talent_hacker/
That's about average price. Unfortunately, that model sells out quite quickly so the price has gone up in recent years. I actually got mine for £350 years ago and from time to time, you still see it being sold new for 350 to 400. Sometimes you can get lucky on reverb.co.uk But 479 I would say is about average. Be sure to check out second hand flamenco guitars on Gumtree too, there some nice models being sold around the London area right now
@@FrancisGrant1 hi Francis, thank you for advice, I sure will have a look on gumtree, I’m In Newcastle upon Tyne so I could get one sent if it’s seems a good deal. is the Yamaha I good guitar to learn on?
@@jamlatts90 Yeah they sometimes have good second hand flamenco guitars for sale in Edinburgh too, keep an eye out. The Yamaha is a great guitar to learn on, it's the guitar that I learned to play flamenco guitar on!
Cordoba F7 Paco!
I have both a Yamaha CG-172SF and a Cordoba F-7 Paco. My go to everyday flamenco guitar is the Yamaha. Both have been refined by lowering the action, adding a more sturdy golpeador, and the Yamaha fitted with a bone saddle. I must admit that the Yamaha has developed an excessive neck bow, which matters little, as I normally use a cejilla. As for construction, the Cordoba wins hands down. I prefer the sound ot the Yamaha blanco!
Thanks a lot for leaving your experiences here, Roy. Very helpful. Kind of disappointing to hear about the neck bow on the Yamaha. The nut fell of my Yamaha once and needed re-fitting.
Based on what I could hear the Yamaha is the more authentic of the two. The Cordoba has a more classical tone, which I expected. Thanks, mate, for the review. It helped a lot in my decision making process.
Glad to hear it! Thanks a lot for watching and commenting!
I thought I would like the Paco best for sure......but the yamaha sounds awesome.
Glad to hear this was helpful! 😁
thanks for the video, very useful!
Glad it was useful! Thanks for commenting 🙏
I think I preferred the sound of the Cordoba but the Yamaha was certainly punching me in the face harder.
Brilliant video
Thank you for the video - it was really useful to me.
Glad to hear it Jack 😁 thanks for commenting!
Hello francis , which guitar is better for flamenco and have loud sound and full tone
Cordoba f7 flamenco
Or
Cordoba f7 Paco Flamenco
I hope you answer very soon
Hey Ahmed, both of these guitars are pretty similar in my opinion - so it really depends on personal preference. If you prefer lively and bright tones, go for the 'standard' model. If you prefer more full-bodied and deeper tones, go for the Paco model. Hope this helps!
@@FrancisGrant1 is the f7 better than yamaha cg182sf ?
I own this model CG182SF. It is fantastic.
Awesome!
Yamaha bought out Cordoba. They both sound nice. It comes down to the style and sound you wish to achieve. I have heard some great guitarist that play flamenco make the Cordoba sound incredible.
Absolutely, well said!
This is slightly off-topic but do you think the Paco would do with with Bossa Nova? I love the idea of lower action, slightly comfier neck and better projection. I'm coming from Steel string and electrics, so I think a Flamenco style guitar will translate better for what I'm interested in. It should still retain the mellow tone of Cedar but have excellent projection imo. I've not tested this theory yet though.
Hey Manfried, good question. I think in terms of playability, the Cordoba would tick all the boxes for bossa. And sound wise, it should sound punchy but well rounded. The only worry is that, I think it would lack the bass and volume a bit. I used to play a lot of bossa and I tend to prefer using my Juan Montes for that, as the larger body really lend a lot to the tone here.
Best treble Yamaha, best overall sound and bases cordoba
Nice playing! What would you say is the best sub $500 guitar out there?
Have you tried the Yamaha cg172sf? Looking at getting my first Flamenco and not sure if it will be that, Cordoba F7, Cordoba F7 Paco, or Kremona Rosa Morena. Awesome playing
Hey Ryan! Thanks a lot and I am very happy to hear that you're getting your first flamenco guitar!
The Yamaha CG172SF is just the previous model of the CG182SF, if I am not mistaken. They are basically the same guitar. I would recommend the Cordoba F7 Paco over the Cordoba F7. I am not too familiar with Kremona but have heard good things about them online. Ultimately, whatever you choose is personal preference... how the guitar sounds and how the guitar feels to you. The best thing you can do it get your hands on them, if possible. You'll know what is best for you when you get the chance to try them in person.
How would you compare the build quality of the guitars?
how high is the action on yamaha??? I like low action and thinking between these two guitars
It's very low! It's around 3.5 to 4 mm at the 12th fret
@@FrancisGrant1 From my perspective, 3.5 to 4 mm at the 12th fret is very high for a flamenco guitar. That is classical guitar height.
@@johnroberts1141shouldn't it be about twice as low
Would you say both of these guitars are superior to the Admira ADMF4 A4? What are your thoughts?
I would say that they are superior, yes! I have never been a huge fan of Admira guitars. I've tried a few of their different models over the years, both classical and flamenco. They are not bad but not great either.
@@FrancisGrant1 Thanks for replying!
Very difficult to decide best..depends what you want to play but in general maybe the Yamaha offers more flamenco possibilities
Is there a budget guitar similar to the yamaha? I love that raw bright flamenco sound. Im in California but cant seem to find this yamaha model used. Any other popular model with similar sound in a budget ? I think its that blanca sound what i like
That's a shame you can't find any used Yamaha's around your area, as that is my top recommendation. Alternatively, you could look for a used Admira F4 blanca, used Alhambra 3F, or used Cordoba F7 blanca. I reviewed the Cordoba F7 negra in this video but there is a blanca version you could consider and they do tend to have a lot more of those in the US
Yamaha sounds sharp and hard. Cordoba sounds mild and soft.
Well said!
Stopped by after a Brandon Acker face off where he guessed the the Yamaha as the more expensive guitar. To the credit of Brandon Acker; the well established seller set up the less expensive Yamaha to the best it could be for regular play-ability; while the more expensive guitar came from a collection and hadn't been used very much. This was the seller trying to pull a fast one on Brandon. I was very impressed with the Yamaha myself.
Thanks for stopping by Will! Yes you really cannot fault Yamaha classical guitars, they punch well above their weight. It doesn't surprise me that someone could mistake them for being worth much more!
The Yamaha wins, bright , true , clear . The cordoba a bit light losing it into medios . Coatings of course can create its own dynamic to sound .
great video man thanks!
My pleasure! Thank you Nadav for watching and commenting 🙏
how is the action at the nut ? nice and low already? how about the height at the 12th fret on the low e ? under 2.00 mm ? that is the ideal, it is not about a player preference, really the ideal height is that low
The height of the action is a player preference 😅 lower action doesn't always equal a better guitar or indicate a better build quality 😂
You see lots of tablao players who want to really 'dig' into the guitar when performing with dancers and other performers in the streets, here it's nice to have a slightly higher action to facilitate this style. Whereas if you are playing through a microphone or amplifier, or if you are more of a solo player, it's nice to try lower actions. Having played tons of guitars with varying degrees of action (see other videos on my channel) each luthier has their preference, depending on the preference of the player and the style that they play. You sometimes see super expensive guitars with higher actions (around 3 mm) because of this.
Anyway, food for thought. But my Cordoba had a lower action than the Yamaha.
@@FrancisGrant1 For Flamenco, Rumba it does. José Ramirez guitars from the year 1904 until the World War used 1.6 mm on the 12th fret on low E and no matter how much volume it may lose, it gains to faster playbility and growl to play rumbas for ex with three, four, five guitarist together like gypsies.. to play like that requires very low action, 2,5mm is not low action as those companies want to make customers to believe.
@diogomartinsmota5478 I can't measure it because I don't own it anymore unfortunately! But I meant lowest overall, in comparison to the Yamaha. I think it's a bit strange to compare luthier guitars from a hundred years ago against factory built guitars from the 2000s.... playing styles and building techniques have kinda changed in these times. In practical terms, it's like comparing apples and oranges. But anyway, that's interesting to hear about. Thanks for commenting your experiences, I'll have to go and learn more about it myself
@@FrancisGrant1Apples and Oranges is comparing a Spruce Top with a Cedar Top guitar, that is what you did. I do get the point of comparing two different flamenco guitars within the same price range but apples with apples would be a Yamaha CG182SF vs Cordoba F7 Flamenco Iberia (both same price range) not Yamaha CG182SF vs Cordoba F7 Paco Flamenco Iberia. I would be inclined towards the Yamaha for the percussive and raw tone like you said in video. If the Yamaha has a higher action than the Cordoba F7 Paco it leads me to believe that the Cordoba F7 Paco Flamenco Iberia could also be lower than the Yamaha which for fast playing is better than high action.
How does the yamaya vs studio navarro sound ?
I just wanted to write that 😺
Thank you for this, the Yamaha sounds great and probably is what I'm looking for. What is the name of the classical piece you played btw, I know I've heard it before but one of those things I've just never gotten the name of but it sounds very pretty.
Hi Ricardo, sorry for my delayed response. It is Cello Suite no1 Prelude by Bach, you can learn it here: ruclips.net/video/KoZ0y4PO5BA/видео.html
@@FrancisGrant1 Thank you. Someone responded it as being "Romanza De Amor" and I knew that wasn't it as I already play that one.
Many thanks for this excellent video.
Thanks a lot Kevin, really appreciate you watching and commenting 🙏
Question, I have the F7 Paco, now I want a blanca with my negra, what would you choose, the Yamaha CG182SF or the Cordoba F7?
I would choose the Yamaha CG182SF, not the Cordoba F7 blanca
Did away with the paco, blanca is more my sound, I have a Salvador Cortez, but would like someone to test the Martinez Flamenco guitars.
Hi Franics, nice demo, could you please let me know what mic you used for this recording ?
Hi Kiran, thanks for watching and commenting! Yes I used the Blue Microphones Yeti Nano to record this. I actually made a RUclips video all about this microphone, here it is: ruclips.net/video/jaOqNVZCwXA/видео.html
@@FrancisGrant1 Thanks much :)
Great comparison. I think if you are going mainly for flamenco the Yamaha wins but I can see the Cordoba being more versatile. You're right about the Cordoba being quieter. For the price, they're are both good deals.
Thanks for commenting mate, yeah totally agree with that. Both of these are great for the price, I actually bought this Cordoba second hand for £200 here in the UK
@@FrancisGrant1 wow..why so expensive?.. Btw i'm from asia. If my budget $100-$130 whch classic guitar can i get? I hope the quality one..
@@mohddalibinzali1165 Expensive is a relative term but being as these guitars are right at the lower end of the cost range, I would say they are cheap. If you are looking to buy a classical guitar for $100 to £130, I would recommend looking for either a second hand Alvarez, or a Cordoba C5. You can't go wrong with a new Yamaha C40 either.
@@FrancisGrant1 is it find if i buy a secondhand classic guitar..? Then which one brand that good to grab? The first things i must check is?
@@FrancisGrant1 Wow! Where did you find it? I’m looking for a cheap cordoba f7 paco in the uk right now
Really wish Yamaha will release the transacoustic version of this guitar
Yeah that would be useful. You could always pick up the stock model and do the mods yourself, at least that way you have control over the electronics
Well done video, thanks
Thanks for watching! 🙏🏼
What about a comparison of the cordoba F7 , the paco is more classical. How would you compare the F7 with the 82SF ?
No the Cordoba F7 Paco is not classical... it is a hybrid with flamenco in mind... hence why it is named after Paco de Lucia, the greatest flamenco guitarist of all time 😅 www.cordobaguitars.com/guitars/f7-paco/
@@FrancisGrant1 there’s an F7 Paco and an F7, what I mean is how would you compare the F7 with the 82SF ?
Ahhhhh OK yes so the standard F7 has a different wood combination, it is a spruce top with cypress back and sides... in other words, it is a typical blanca. As mentioned in the video, the F7 Paco is a negra, it is ceder top and Indian rosewood back and sides. As both the standard F7 and Yamaha 82SF are blancas, both sound bright, snappy, and punchy. Perfect for cutting through the mix and getting that traditional Spanish guitar sound, they sound perfect for lively classical pieces, or for flamenco fandangos, alegrias, etc. However, because the Cordoba has a slightly thinner body, it will lack the volume of the Yamaha. It's a tough call because personally, I prefer the feel of the Cordoba but the sound of the Yamaha. The Cordoba feels great in my hands, the neck is very comfortable. But Yamaha did an amazing job with capturing that authentic flamenco sound. Every player is different and they have their own preferences... to make the right decision for you, ideally you will need to try these guitars out in person.
@@FrancisGrant1 great many thanks for info, that was helpful. I like your presentations very accessible. I noticed on RUclips there is a Yamaha 82SF and 72SF is one a newer flamenco and update? I’m feeling into what to try out
@@chrisbaron70 No problem, Christopher - glad that helps out! 😁 Yes the Yamaha 172SF is the older model, the Yamaha 182SF is the newest version. I can't tell any differences between them though, they look the same spec!
Hello :) Francis did you have chance to play on these models besides Yamaha ?
Alhambra 3f,
Admira 4f,
Yamaha CG182SF,
Cordoba F7,
Camps M-5,
Trying to chose from these ,but the problem is that in my home town I can get only Cordoba F7.
Can any one share their opinion ?
Hi Lukas! Guitar preferences are subjective but I am not such a fan of Alhambra, Admira, or Camps. All the models that I have tried under 1000 have been quite disappointing for me. The Yamaha and Cordoba are better (again, in my opinion). I am welcome to hear other's opinions though so please comment here if you can help.
Do you happen to know what differences there are between the CG182SF and the CG172SF?
As far as I can tell, there are no differences. The CG172SF was just the first version of this model and then somewhere along the line, Yamaha changed the name. The spec looks exactly the same though
I'm going to buy a new guitar and I really don't know what guitar I can buy, I study classical music but I'm also into the flamenco music, For an intermediate student what would be better?
Thanks for commenting! When I first started playing flamenco guitar I was in the same situation as you, I had already studied classical music for several years. And to be honest, either of these would be suitable for you. You will likely find the Cordoba less of a transition from what you are used to. You may find the sound of the Yamaha a bit thin at first, as coming from classical, we aren't so familiar with traditional flamenco guitar tones. Both are easy to play but the neck of the Cordoba is slightly thinner.
Why do you hook your thumb over the top of the fret board , when playing in the first position ? So then you have to reposition it behind the middle of the fretboard when playing higher up ?
It's a remnant of all the different styles I've played over the years ruclips.net/video/YuxRhCXBDM0/видео.html
The position is useful if you want to fret with your thumb, which is used in steel-string fingerstyle, particularly Celtic fingerstyle. I don't do it so much anymore (look at recent videos), now that I play exclusively flamenco, but it doesn't have such a big impact anyway on your playing. It would concern me if I was a professional guitarist who plays concerts every other day and practices hours every day, but I'm just a hobbyist
@@FrancisGrant1 Yes sir , old habits are hard to break. I was fortunate to take lessons from a classical guitar grad student here at my local university thereby avoiding the pitfalls of self teaching. Never tried to play flamenco, don't care for the noisy and repetitive nature of it.
Amazing video Francis. Im planning on buying the F7 Paco, the only issue I "hear" is that the bulerias and solea might sound a little muddier compared to the yamaha which has that really short attack and higher treble frequency response. Would that be an accurate guesstimation?
Thanks a lot, Kunal 🙏🏻 yes my opinion is in agreement with that. One recommendation to try and resolve this would be to use strings with a bright sound to compensate for the lack of trebles. If you are around the Americas, order the Sonatina Equinox Titanium strings, or if you are in Europe, order the Knobloch Actives Carbon. You should get a great sound using these strings. I recorded this particular video using the D'Addario Pro-Arté Composite and I've since learned that other string options can give substantial changes to the guitar tone!
@@FrancisGrant1 thanks a lot! this helps
Surprised I haven’t run across this vid before, YT algorithm finally popped it up.
Don’t have an F7, have a C7-ce RW/cedar strung w a combo of La Bella 2001 light & med strings for classical & “Spanish style” really like the sound. Been thinking on an F7 Paco, or perhaps a Tak, I’ll keep the D'Addarios Blacks in mind to give a try if/when I hit the buy button.
Glad it did in the end! Thanks for watching and commenting Jesse! Yes have a go with the D'Addario composite and see if you like the sound. Maybe not as sweet sounding as the La Bella but they do have a powerful attack
I have somewhat smalle hands for a man. Which one would you suggest. The F7 had a C neck I know. But what about the Yamaha?
Hello, my personal take is the F7 is easier on the hands. This is subjective but I've always found the shape of the neck on the Yamaha a bit uncomfortable. I have pretty large hands too.
Does anyone have any experience on the Alhambra 5FP?
Having trouble making a decision due to not having a dealers with flamenco guitars in Romania. I am like both the sound of the Blanca and negra. I am a beginner but do not want another boxing sounding guitar like I have now. I want a t least a solid top if not all solid wood. Just wrestling with the idea of a solid wood or only solid top . Is it better to invest in a quality solid wood guitar rather than keep buying and selling as my skills improve.
The guitars I have narrowed it down to based on what I have seen or heard reviews on :
1.Alhambra 5FP or 10 FP Negra
2.Alhambra F8 or F10
blanca
3. Cordoba F7 or F7 Paco model
4. Juan Montes Blanca or negra
5. Francisco Navarro student model blanca or negra
Any advice or suggestion welcome.
Thank you in advance
Cheers,
Ted
Hi Francis - What would be the difference between the Yamaha Models Yamaha CG172SF vs the CG182SF ?
Hi Rick. So my understanding was that the CG172SF was simply the earlier version of the CG182SF. I don't think there were any major differences between the two models... but if you see a CG172SF being sold, it probably has just been around for longer than any CG182SF models.
Maybe some other people here may know more and will reply?
Very useful! Thx
As a flamenco purist I would of never thought I would of chosen the Yamaha
That's cool to hear! I am glad the Yamaha won you over 😁
The soleá part convinced me to buy the yamaha, It sounds amazing !
Great job !
Great! Glad to hear it my friend :-) enjoy the Yamaha !
Yamaha FLAMENCO
Cordoba BACH
My friend Yamaha CG182SF flamenco guitar FLAMENCA Classical guitar
Made in China or Japan??
Hello Muhemmed! A lot of cheaper guitars are constructed in China, regardless of the brand. As for Yamaha, they are a Japanese brand and do have factories in Japan.... but they also have factories in China, Indonesia, and Taiwan. So it could be anything.
Francis. What do you think a good choice would be for jazz styles? Not necessarily out of the 2 reviewed here, but in general?. Thanks.
Hey mate, so it depends on what you played jazz on previously? If you're an electric guitar player, crossover style Spanish guitars work well... a lot of electric guitar players seem to prefer crossover guitars because of the general feel and nut width. Cordoba make great crossover guitars, such as the C10 or the Fusion, for example. If your background is playing jazz on acoustic guitars then in my opinion, the F7 Paco modelled here would be great, provided that you are happy with the wood combination and the sound... it's personal preference. Hope this helps!
To my taste i like the Yamaha the better. Still i would like to ask you, would you recommend that guitar for playing purely classical and having an enough loud sound at least on small venues? Greetings and thank you for the video.
Hi Javier! I have played a lot of classical music on the Yamaha and it's OK, not amazing, but it does the job. I am usually left slightly dissatisfied with the fullness of the sound for classical pieces. If you leave me your email, I can send you some of my privately recorded classical music using the Yamaha, up to you
I came here looking for a review for the "blanca" and now think I prefer the Cordoba. Strictly for flamenco use.
Glad the video helped clarify which sounds best to your ears :-) You won't be disappointed with the Cordoba
I played for years with a fellow andalusian who had a blanca, so I was looking for that. But hearing the two side by side, the negra is what I have in my mind for sound. Thanks! Regards
Super film ! :)
Thanks a lot :-D
Great video. Many thanks, and nice play by the way!! Cheers
Thanks for checking it out and commenting, hope it was useful! 😁
What is 1000? In Japan, this instrument costs 39000 yen ($ 368/ €325). The sound balance is good, and I think it is enough for beginners. However, I like Cordoba F7 Paco.
Below £1000. Hello to Japan from England :-)
Thank you very much for comparison. IMHO Yamaha by far better as a flamenco guitar. Sound is more balanced with a classical flamenco bass, exactly what I am searching in a great nylon guitar. I hate when bass is resonating in a classical guitar, like an A open string in Yamaha c70.
Hi Alexey, really glad this comparison is helpful to you - thanks for checking it out. The Yamaha really does capture that traditional raw flamenco sound, quite incredible given its price!
@@FrancisGrant1 The sad thing that is unavailable anywhere around me. Even in neighboring countries
@@donalexey That's a shame! Where are you? If you happen to be travelling or on holiday keep an eye out for one used!
Among the many guitars i have i own a similar YAMAHA CG 182 SF ;but your has a more voluminous sound than my same YAMAHA , not all sound the same of the same brand , i like your YAMAHA more . It's important to have a luck too on the acquired ...
Hey Giampiero, thanks for commenting your experiences! Interesting that your guitar sounded different, I hadn't really thought about differences within a model before. I guess you just have to try it out and see which ones have the higher build quality. Thanks for watching and take care!
Thanks 😀
No problem 👍🏻
It was very difficult to choose, both guitars are attractive
I agree!
To me Personally…. I own a Cordoba F7, and a Rodriguez Cedar/Rosewood. And while I adore my Rodriguez Model A-cut, I feel the Yamaha had a much bette rich live sound
Liked cordoba sound
Hey can anyone tell me what that classical piece at the end is called? Or is it just a few random notes?
That was prelude from Bach´s Cello Suite No. 1 - you can find a really good arrangement of it here: ruclips.net/video/KoZ0y4PO5BA/видео.html
Thanks. I'm just beginning to learn to play in my early 20s now, and pieces like that remind me of why i decided to pick up the guitar, and help keep me motivated, too.
I have always used D'Adarrio EJ 45s on my yamaha 182f. How do the composites compare ? I feel I could use a little extra tension on the 650mm scale but don't want to go to heavy gauge strings. Your thoughts please.
I have been a big fan of the D'Adarrio composites for years as I love the feel and sound. You get a great response and attack from striking the strings. Rasgueados and picado feel great. But then recently I tried Equinox Titanium medium-tension nylon strings and they feel way better for me. Also, not that I know enough to conclusively have a say on this, but a number of people who are way more knowledgeable than me have commented that high-tension strings are not so good for your guitar over the years... I think the strain can gradually warp the wood. Anyway, after several years I shall now be trying out the Knobloch medium-tension nylon strings for a while 👍🏻
@@FrancisGrant1 Thanks for your comments. I also would not put heavy gauge strings on the 182f,with its very slim neck, and also the risk of lifting the top over time. may try a set of Knobloch. Also there is a real risk of getting fakes with the EJ45s these days.
Both nice flamenco guitar 🎸 nice sounds
Thanks Muhemmed! Take care 🎸😁
O Yamaha é bem superior no quesito flamenco.....top demais....🎵🎶🎼👏👏👏
The sound of the Córdoba is tremendous, what brand of strings do you have on it?
Thank you!! These strings are the D'ADDARIO Pro-Arté Composite Core Custom Tension
If you want to see another video where I test these strings, see here: ruclips.net/video/dtxFEJfVgm0/видео.html