Thanks for the Video! Sorry for chiming in, I would appreciate your thoughts. Have you tried - Riddleagan Skillful Playing Remedy (erm, check it on google should be there)? It is a smashing one of a kind guide for learning complex guitar chords and become a pro minus the hard work. Ive heard some great things about it and my close friend Aubrey got amazing results with it.
@@bastidota i'm telling you that the one who plays good fingerstyle on an acoustic can master fingerstyle on a classical. Actaully i always wanted to get a classical one but due to my school's norms about the nails thing i coudn't :( now once i'm out i'll surely get an hands on
I learned and played Classical guitar music on acoustic one for more than 2 years, always noticed it won't sound as good as what I wanted. Later on I discovered that I actually should be using classical guitar for that and now it's even easier to play on classical guitar.
My son is playing classical guitar with the Suzuki method. When we started I had no idea there was a difference. I was actually a bit disappointed to realize that he wasn't going to play acoustic but immediately I fell in love with the beautiful sound of classical. So beautiful. Thank you for your video. Subscribed.
Do your son a favour, and get him a Crossover guitar. It has nylon strings and sound of a Spanish guitar, but the superior ergonomic and playability of an acoustic (steel string) guitar. The neck is radiused and is 47-48mm wide, back of the neck is more ergonomic.
I know of some acoustic guitars with steel strings, and around 45-46 mm wide neck. They are made for fingerpicking most exclusively because barring chords and heavy strumming would defeat its purpose. I never enquired about a 52mm wide neck acoustic steel string guitar, to me that would be a torture device, so I don’t know if such a thing even exists in today’s production. Steel strings do not oscillate as wildly as nylon strings and generally speaking, extra wide neck on a steel string guitar is not required. But maybe as a custom made instrument for very tall people with extra large fingers?
I know of some acoustic guitars with steel strings, and around 45-46 mm wide neck. They are made for fingerpicking most exclusively because barring chords and heavy strumming would defeat its purpose. I never enquired about a 52mm wide neck acoustic steel string guitar, to me that would be a torture device, so I don’t know if such a thing even exists in today’s production. Steel strings do not oscillate as wildly as nylon strings and generally speaking, extra wide neck on a steel string guitar is not required. But maybe as a custom made instrument for very tall people with extra large fingers?
I find it peculiar and very interesting that there are this somewhat hidden gems on youtube. Knowledge of all sorts. There are some guys (and obviously also girls) like you out there who just want to give the knowledge they have to others without something in return. I truly admire that. More popular channels tend to not hold such great value in them. There are of course exceptions to this, but in my opinion this is pretty much the case. So really thanks for doing this. This should truly be appreciated. And don't forget the lurkers who enjoy this content and don't contribute with comments. They also appreciate.
I have an acoustic and a strat but holy shit i’m dying to get my hands on a classical. I’ve also had my eyes on maybe 6 other guitars too but that’s just the way it is, once you get one guitar it’s always “ahh cmon i mean sure i have this one but that one is that one and this one is this one”. No one seems to understand that besides other guitarists
I’ve played acoustic for 3 years and for the last year I’ve mainly played classical music. I finally switched and I definitely recommend it. Feels so much better on my fingers even tho I have calluses
After playing guitar causally for years with tabs, I decided to break out my acoustic and start learning classical from the beginning. I was a bit disappointed to see that the instruments are different, but this video helped put me at ease. For now I’ll practice and learn proper technique on the steel string, and if I stick with it, I’ll have a nice upgrade waiting as a reward.
I inherited a steel string from my mother. She didn't die she just didn't want it anymore. It took me a long time to get used to how close together the strings are! Really a strange feeling.
I played fingerstyle on steel for years, coming from classical background as a kid, could never get the tone I wanted from my nails, always too bright. And chewed up my nails a lot. Switched to a crossover nylon thinking that would be perfect, ended up back on classical because I wanted a wide neck - more space to work with! I also find I can be more emotive on nylon as you pointed out Matt. Good topic!
Yash Pandya Nylon strings are suited closer to your natural nail material. Steel strings will wear down your nails in mere hours playing classical pieces, heck, steel strings even wear down picks. But, ringing steel strings are sweet sounding.
I really like how in depth and clear his explanations are. I love this guy, he so different and not pretentious as most. Definitely deserves a sub from me.
Great topic. I started on a typical “dreadnaught” size acoustic and moved to a classical after about a year. I later picked up an acoustic parlor guitar with a wider fretboard and smaller body than a typical acoustic to play fingerstyle folk and blues, using a lot of classical technique. Now I predominantly play the classical and parlor - it’s just an easier transition for me to go between those two vs going between a classical and a typical acoustic.
I practiced your Gypsy Dance tutorial for one day on my new metal string acoustic and my fingertips are on fire! I didn't even know classic and acoustic guitars are different, so now I know it's not just the playing style.
Narrower neck on steel strings makes it possible to bring your thumb over, which is pretty useful if not essential to a lot of modern music. You generally can't get your thumb over on a nylon string, unless it's some sort of hybrid
OG_ SynaXx, I only bought it yesterday evening. Maybe I’ll eventually get used to the pain, but I’m seriously thinking about getting a nylon stringed guitar instead. I don’t know much about comparing sound, but these videos seem to explain it pretty well. Plus my 4/4 is pretty big, so I think I’ll opt for a 3/4 sized guitar this time.
@@og_synaxx2591 get a nylon one, when you have learnt classic music, playing modern songs on acoustic will take almost no time to master. I had both and if you want to go serious on learning i would suggest you to start your journey with a classical one.
When you're just starting out, make sure not to push it too hard. If you play to the point where your fingertips hurt too much to play the next day, it's harder to get into the habit of playing regularly, and it'll take a longer time for your callouses to develop. Once you have your callouses you can play for hours on end without pain :)
I saw a recital featuring the great Carlos Montoya in 1975 Pasadena Commmunity Center. He played both styles of guitar. It was an amazing experience. I was invited by my friend who was VP at the new company Sony Corp! I will never forget him and his stories about his songs!
This is an interesting objective look at things. I agree with everything that was said. However if you're planning on "really" playing classical guitar in any formal capacity then it makes sense to invest in a classical guitar. Doesn't have to be very expensive. There are some really good Cordoba or Yamaha options to get you started without breaking the bank. However if you're an existing fingerstyle guitarist, and you just want to play some classical pieces and are already proficient at playing fingerstyle on acoustic then by all means. Paul Davids is a good example of such a versatile player.
Really like your channel! I learned to play 'classical' on my old acoustic guitar. I mean, one can learn from it, but in my case, after a couple of months, as soon as i could, I switched to a classical guitar with nylon strings and found it much better for the repertoire..
I've been playing for decades on both. But,What especially I like on a classical guitar is I don't have to plug it into an amp when I'm home, meaning less noise And it adapts well to Jazz & Bosa Nova style guitar
I've been playing steel string acoustic using primarily fingerstyle and I just wanna say string spacing isnt consistent. I've noticed acoustics made for modern country are usually made for a pick, so the strings will be closer together. However, my main guitar was set up for fingerstyle playing and the strings are much closer to a classical, the only problem I have playing a classical is compensating for the size of the neck, personally. But that's a quick adjustment, play for a minute and I'm good.
Good video. Still to this day I hate steel string acoustic. I started on one in '77, my brother's, and finally got an electric in '84. I came back to the acoustic a few years later but that time it was nylon string classical style and I started experimenting with Classical then. ...huge difference. I highly recommend nylon/classical style...thanks.
I play for 9 years now, I started with acoustic guitar, but when I get classical guitar (4 years ago) and listen to classical music, I must say that classical guitar is much easier (for me) to play. But most people rather the sound of acoustic guitar so for my own fun and practice, I play on classical, but for people I play on acoustic in classical way, which is not the best what I can becouse as You set, it's harder to play (steel strings, and wider neck). Of course I have to practice on both guitars, but for myself, I chose classic more often.
I started playing on a classical guitar many years ago but switched to steel for two reasons: I liked the brighter sound and, because I have smallish hands. I liked the fact that the frets were closer together and the strings not so far apart. I never played anything but classical music over the many decades I'be been playing and probably I'd be a little better player if I'd stuck to classical guitar....and maybe not. Anyway, now I have an 8 string "classical-acoustic" and wouldn't switch. It makes playing easier when you can tune the two extra bass strings to low f# , or low g or g# and have a nice open sound on those notes and also not have to stretch to stop strings for those notes.
I mostly play acoustic fingerstyle. I tend to jump from steel strings to nylon strings to see what works best for the song that I am playing to my ear. Just recently I started learning classical guitar techniques, and I find a lot of the techniques to make for better ergonomics and easier playing even on my steel string guitar. I have to admit that I am a bit intimidated by classical guitar, as there are so many awesome guitarists out there, and my lack of formal training can feel like an impediment, however I have chosen to try to learn one song at a time, and try them on steel and nylon strings to see what I prefer. I may later upload a video of a classical piece on nylon and one of the same piece on steel strings to let people listen and choose for themselves what they may prefer. I love the tone of the nylon strings, so I do play nylon at least as often now as I play steel strings.
I don't have steel string acoustic but I do have classical guitar and an electric guitar, and I think the neck width difference is not that big of an issue. Just something one needs to get used to.
Look for the videos of Tina S. She plays Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata on a rock guitar. It's mainly some fast pick work and finger tapping. It's like making the guitar into a two handed instrument like a piano instead of the right hand strumming or picking.
That's how I started when I was 14. I wouldn't say that I was planning classical music but finger picking and I also knew how to read(most guitar players don't).
Is there any person on this planet, who really plays classical repertoire on steel string? Not fingerstyle, not just a guy, who plays one or two popular classical pieces, but someone who is seriously treating acoustic like an instrument for classical music? Can you call just one name, that i can browse and find some really impressive stuff?
@@JT-gm4fk After seeing your response to the question above, I immediately went to check out Alexandr... He does not play classical repertoire. He is clearly a fingerstyle/acoustic player. So no, we still need to find a player who *is seriously treating acoustic like an instrument for classical music* as per the question...
Agustín Pío Barrios, a Paraguayan virtuoso classical guitarist and composer, played and composed on steel string guitar. His repertoire is a must for classical players.
Agreed on the popularity in different parts of the world. In Mexico (and probably in all of Latin Europe and Latin America) a “guitar” is always a classical guitar. So it is mesmerizing to see and hear live the popular instrument that your family has played and used mostly for accompaniment in traditional trios, mariachi or folklore ensembles, being played as a soloist, classical instrument. The exact same instrument (albeit of a higher quality). An “acoustic” would be a “steel stringed” guitar.
@@devbrit2104 yup, those were build with the higher tension in mind. But most were from the time before Segovia and nylon strings, when gut was used in Europe. Due to the lack of availability of this material in Brasil many musicians chose steel strings, but kept the normal dimensions of guitars from that time. Some of the best like Dilermano Reis and João Pernambuco are examples.
Thank you for the explanation. I have been struggling with my acoustic guitar that my friend gave me. Because I love playing classical and realizing no matter how hard I try, my fingers keep touch other string. Now I have my reason to get a classical guitar.
Perfect compromise, get a classical “crossover” or hybrid. Also called “fusion.” The nut is usually 1 7/8 inch and the fingerboard has a radius. I just got a Cordoba C9 Crossover and I love it. Plays so much easier than either my vintage Yamaha classical or my steel string acoustic with a too-narrow nut (1 11/16). The sound is plenty bright and loud with high tension nylon strings. Cordoba makes a whole range of “fusion” guitars with the narrower nut, a cutaway and electronics. (The C9 Crossover that I got has no cutaway or electronics.). Their guitars all have a double action truss rod. Taylor has a few crossover nylon string guitars, including a modestly priced Academy model. Yamaha also makes a classical crossover line. I think it’s called the NT line.
If you are still not convinced, you should look up Sungha Jung, he plays beautiful fingerstyle on steel strings. For instance I play a classical guitar and some classical music as well but I don't hold it like a classical guitar. I hold it horizontal like an acoustic and yes that makes certain select shapes difficult but overall it's more comfortable for me to play that way. There are no restrictions with your guitar, you can play any style with whatever position/angle you are most comfortable with.
I played some years on Classic guitar with Steel strings because I didn't know it was unhealthy for classic guitar but lucky nothing happened. Anyway It was an interesting combination, classic guitar with steel strings sounded like an acoustic one and it was easier to learn on a wide neck.
As an Engineer and musician, I cringe at the misuse of the term "acoustic guitar". "Acoustic" merely means it produces sound with the body of the guitar, as opposed to "electric" which electronically senses the varying magnetic field around a vibrating steel string, and requires a separate amplifier to be heard. All classical guitars are acoustic. So is the American steel-string acoustic guitar. The only difference is the string material, and that nylon-string guitars can be less rigid and therefore can be more responsive. Willie Nelson's famous guitar "Trigger" is a nylon-string guitar, but you'd hardly call it "classical".
Nice video Alan...I'm not sure how many know this but there are luthiers who build steel string guitars who will, and do make wider fingerboards for the fingerstyle player that wants a wider neck. Some of the factories that do custom work can do it as well. Doyle Dukes is my favorite steel stringer. Thumb pick and nails from another planet!
I think a lot of people don’t mention that while it’s easier play a nylon string guitar, but classical is the main purpose of a classical which is much much harder than what most people learn on acoustic guitars. Not to mention it takes much more dedication on classical
I don't think so. The low tension of nylon strings make it extremely difficult to finger properly with the left hand, because the string moves away from below the finger; it is always loose (compared to steel string), action is always higher, and the loose string oscillates wildly. Creating a good tone on a Spanish guitar takes many YEARS of practice. But on the the Folk guitar (steel strings), one can create a good tone and even finger a dozen chords within a few weeks of playing.
@@zvonimirtosic6171 Yes, however, you can get higher tension strings. And it's much easier on the hands for beginners while they don't have calices yet and the wider spacing makes it easier to fret strings, while having to reach further (proper tradeoff I'd say) although yea getting good tone is much harder.
I ended up building an acoustic classical hybrid. 7/8 size. Bracing is a cross between the two, classical rossette, 25" scale, 2" neck, classical string spacing but steel strings. Why? I like classical guitars and struggle finger picking acoustics due to spacing. I got drawn to practicng fingerstyle blues. Perfectly playable with nylons but is missing the blues twang from the steels. Only guitars with similar specs are turn of the last century gut parlor guitars that have had tailpieces or reinforcement added to handle steel string weight...😮 Couldnt afford a custom commission so here we are😂
the neck is wider coz the string are squishy and move around a lot, same reason why you can have much lower action on acoustic guitar. You can also use Silk and Steel like strings on acoustic and those are very soft and mellow, heck get a shorter 630mm scale if you want, yet you can have ~1.5mm of action in the middle. Acoustic is faster and has more attack.
The neck is also wider to accommodate the more polyphonic nature of classical music. More work is needed to produce the music ,and more space is needed to do the work... Don't you think?
@@razakza I'd say articulated, classical guitar are the same 6 paraphony as other guitars. I'm not sure, if I have to play a hard piece I cheat and use my shorter scale / smaller neck guitar as it makes me 4 months of training ahead ;) I heard your point often but I wouldn't say that a cello is more suited to classical pieces because it allows more room to play than a violin, it's not like electric guitar players are shy of shredding! Sure it helps with string buzz, but no, I think that's a misconception based on the supposed superiority of classical musical instruments to play classical music. There's no such thing, it's just that ~200 years ago there was no other way to build instruments. On the other hand I believe that the fingerboard being straight helps with fingerstyle.
@@eaman11 Thanks for engaging eaman *I'd say articulated, classical guitar are the same 6 paraphony as other guitars* The nature of classical music in the west is still more polyphonic than other forms of music in the west though. The design of the classical guitar then, has been optimised to effectively reproduce said classical music on the instrument. *I wouldn't say that a cello is more suited to classical pieces because it allows more room to play than a violin* This is an example of two different instruments that takes away from the point. Both instruments have been effectively designed to convincingly reproduce the nuances of the music. Violinists do not need more space as their instrument is more than able to cover the music with authenticity. *it's not like electric guitar players are shy of shredding!* Shredding is mostly monophonic and this reinforces my point about the *optimal-design* of the classical guitar to reproduce the music effectively. As mentioned previously, the nature of classical music is polyphonic. If it had been all about playing fast single-note melodic patterns, with no or little accompaniment figures only, then a narrower neck would be quite fine. The requirements of the music are totally different though. *I think that's a misconception based on the supposed superiority of classical musical instruments to play classical music* Your argument here will only be proven when serious musicians are able to effectively and authentically play accepted classical repertoire on steel string and electric guitars routinely, (and not for novelty value). I would be excited if that happens!
@Celtic Orthodox Prayer That is interesting indeed. I'm a committed classical guitarist. I see other people like Mary Spender (viola), and Yvette Young (piano), playing the electric guitar... I always wonder how come they did not make their way to the classical guitar instead, considering that they come from classical music backgrounds...
Same with me. I also prefer to play classical repertoire on acoustic. I like the brighter tone of acoustic guitar more and I like still strings more than nylon strings.
Excellent discussion. A couple of basics: 1. The distinction between "classical" and "acoustic" guitar is logically absurd. ALL guitars without electronic pickups (whether nylon or steel strings) are "acoustic" guitars. 2. "Classical" guitar is NOT defined by nylon strings. Many fine non-classical guitars are available with nylon (as opposed to) steel strings. 3. The whole difference is one of style/culture. If you want to study traditional, note-by-note written music, then you want to play "classical guitar." If you want to play pop, jazz, rock, country, folk, worship. etc., and likely never read a note of music, then classical is not for you. 4. "Classical" guitar requires hours weekly grooming your right-hand fingernails, and avoiding any human activity that could possibly compromise a nail. Steel-string guitars may (or may not) involve nail care but nowhere so exacting. 5. If you prefer "acoustic" guitar, and can read music, you can still play virtually any classical guitar composition (gorgeously), but will never be accepted by the purist classical guitar community.
when i bought an acoustic guitar they came with a default nylon strings i'm sooooo confused :( but it really helped for my beginner fingers back then. I played a bunch of pop songs and it was too warm unlike other people that i've seen. However, i got used to it after a year. Recently, the strings snapped and i changed to steel after 2 years and the sound is too bright for my liking... now i'm in dilemma bc i wanted to learn classical but can't afford a new guitar :(
Well, I have an accoustic and if you are a really advanced player maybe you can play anything classical, but from my experience (being an intermediate player) you can't play everything with an absolute yes. For example let's try to play tremolo. It can be played pretty easily on high open E but I find it too hard to play it on the heavier notes because the distances are really small between each string. You want to go to the flamenco style of classical? Rasgueados feel weird. My opinion is if you really want to play classical and you intend to invest your time in learning some more advanced techniques, just do yourself a favor and buy a classical guitar. Even a cheap one is going to be preety much ok. I am going to buy one I believe :P Great video btw.
Folk guitar (acoustic steel string) has a totally different tonal picture: it is more saturated, richer and immediate, the projection is superior. Many techniques developed for the Spanish nylon string guitar are developed to overcome problems of projection and quickly dying tone of the Spanish guitar. Those techniques are NOT necessary on the acoustic guitar. So the music must be adapted, not played the same.
the main problem for acoustic guitars is not narrow neck i.e. 43mm , but the much bigger problem is to find acoustic guitar with wide neck like 48 mm and more (on classic its 52 mm)..for a reasonable price.. Its either handcrafted guitar area for 48-54 mm neck extra option...or some guitars in middle price range 500 euro but only few models had found with possibility that sound isnt acceptable.. if someone has know wide neck acoustic guitar and for beginners and students please leave a comment
I had this problem too.. There are many narrow neck nylon guitars, not so many the other around.. Seagull have great guitars at a good price with slightly wider neck, but not classical wide. The best I found was to look at Framus Legacy models at thomann.com of they ship to where you live, I bought a great steel string with 48mm neck, smaller body for 260EUR, om happy with it after changing strings and lowering the saddle.
I've always played steel, I'm studying classical guitar and thinking about yamaha silent guitar that comes in nylon and steel but I can't make up my mind.
I find the steel string to be more versatile. I play a number of styles on them, including Classical and Flamenco, but nothing beats the soft tone of nylons in some situations.
I believe they are properly called A) the Spanish guitar, and B) the Folk guitar. The Folk guitar is in fact WAYS easier to play and produce a good tone. However, there is also a C) Crossover guitar, which has nylon strings, but the neck design inspired by steel string guitar. The fretboard is around 47-48mm, radiused, thinner and more playable than traditional Spanish, and slightly wider than the usual Folk guitar.
Thank you!! This has answered a lot of the questions i had. I'm a very fresh beginner, and am currently continuing to practice on an acoustic guitar a few fingerstyle pieces that i started learning on nylon. I was confused whether i was doing something "wrong" by doing that. I am actually preferring the steelstring an the moment because it's building calluses faster, and going back to nylon afterwards feels sooo rewarding. I haven't decided which type of guitar/type of music i want to focus on, so i feel a bit torn haha
I use my classical to play all styles of fingerpicking...from folk to contemporary, jazz, and songwriting of my own originals....but I'm just weird like that...I I also fingerpick my 12-string, which is a little unusual.
Fun fact: Willie Nelson plays a nylon string guitar. He put a pickup on it, but it's still a classical with nylon strings... it's the only way to get the sound he wants.
Among other differences are: steel strings give longer sustenance than nylon strings and less dynamic range in terms of sound volume. Given these differences, it seems a good approach to play harpsichord music from baroque period on steel strings rather than insisting on nylon. Virtually, steel strings generate sounds close to a harpsichord.
There's one thing that's surprising you didn't talk about. That classical is more traditionally played on nylon. And it sounds more like the original gut strings that music would've been played on in the 18th and 19th centuries. The sound is obviously quite different and it's up to you what you like more.
I only have an acoustic guitar but i play a lot of classical stuff. It's ok i guess, but I've been learning Leyenda for a while now and the tremolo parts are a torture xD
Steel string guitar is also more cheaper than a nylon. I guess more steel strings guitars are produced than classical? Most beginners go with a steel string because they are starting out and don't know if they will like it later.
That's not true everywhere. All other things being equal, a classical guitar should sell at a lower price, because the guitar body is less robust and therefore cheaper to make. I suspect you're comparing knock-off steel string guitars built for price-sensitive buyers in the USA to standard-built nylon guitars. In my experience, when clone guitar makers also build classical guitars, they are looking for quality comparable to name-brand classical guitars. They try to build a reputation for quality in classical guitars so that reputation will transfer to the steel-string cheap knock-offs, their big sellers. Yamaha nylon string guitars, for example, are of sufficient quality to be considered a name brand (and at a favourable price), but their steel-string guitars don't have the quality or reputation of the Martin and Gibson guitars they copy.
I have not played a classical guitar before, I have only played acoustic, but I've heard that the nylon strings on the classical guitar are softer, and I hope to because steel strings make my fingers hurt 😃
Well yes you could but you would need to get nylon strings that have the ball end. Also don’t put steel strings on a nylon guitar as your guitar fret board will likely snap.
Hi. I wanted to know if I can can use plastic chords on an acoustic guitar (for the reasons you mentioned: it really hurts my fingers). The reason why I wanted to buy acoustic (I already have a classical one) is that you can simply plug it in when need to. However, there are no 2/4 or 3/4 sized classical guitars which can be plugged in. Thank you
*sir i switched myself from still to nylon because i want to play finger style, which is much popular now days....so my teacher told me to switched and i did it....but my question is finger style techniques all are classical based then does it easy to play on metal strings( cause finger style guitarist all are playing in metal strings)?.*
Well, steel strings will cut right through your callouses if you play a few hours daily. Also, the sustain of steel strings can cause unwanted overtones in many polyphonic pieces. But, who doesn't love the ring of a steel string, you may need two guitars now,...hehe.
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Find out more about using an Acoustic Guitar to play Classical Style:
www.classicalguitarshed.com/classical-on-acoustic/
Bravo. this is the only guitarists that I can find on youtube that recommends a classical guitar instead of an acoustic
Thats true usually folks hate classicsl guitar bcs its more difficult that acoustic
Moreover, he recommended going with whatever we have at hand.
He recommends classical guitar for playing classical music on guitar. What a surprise.
Thanks for the Video! Sorry for chiming in, I would appreciate your thoughts. Have you tried - Riddleagan Skillful Playing Remedy (erm, check it on google should be there)? It is a smashing one of a kind guide for learning complex guitar chords and become a pro minus the hard work. Ive heard some great things about it and my close friend Aubrey got amazing results with it.
@@bastidota i'm telling you that the one who plays good fingerstyle on an acoustic can master fingerstyle on a classical. Actaully i always wanted to get a classical one but due to my school's norms about the nails thing i coudn't :( now once i'm out i'll surely get an hands on
He looks like he's holding a foreign object when holding that acoustic guitar
😂
I learned and played Classical guitar music on acoustic one for more than 2 years, always noticed it won't sound as good as what I wanted.
Later on I discovered that I actually should be using classical guitar for that and now it's even easier to play on classical guitar.
My son is playing classical guitar with the Suzuki method. When we started I had no idea there was a difference. I was actually a bit disappointed to realize that he wasn't going to play acoustic but immediately I fell in love with the beautiful sound of classical. So beautiful. Thank you for your video. Subscribed.
Do your son a favour, and get him a Crossover guitar. It has nylon strings and sound of a Spanish guitar, but the superior ergonomic and playability of an acoustic (steel string) guitar. The neck is radiused and is 47-48mm wide, back of the neck is more ergonomic.
@@zvonimirtosic6171 thank you. I will look into since he needs to upgrade soon
@@zvonimirtosic6171 is there like a reverse version with like steel strings on a wide neck?
I know of some acoustic guitars with steel strings, and around 45-46 mm wide neck. They are made for fingerpicking most exclusively because barring chords and heavy strumming would defeat its purpose. I never enquired about a 52mm wide neck acoustic steel string guitar, to me that would be a torture device, so I don’t know if such a thing even exists in today’s production. Steel strings do not oscillate as wildly as nylon strings and generally speaking, extra wide neck on a steel string guitar is not required. But maybe as a custom made instrument for very tall people with extra large fingers?
I know of some acoustic guitars with steel strings, and around 45-46 mm wide neck. They are made for fingerpicking most exclusively because barring chords and heavy strumming would defeat its purpose. I never enquired about a 52mm wide neck acoustic steel string guitar, to me that would be a torture device, so I don’t know if such a thing even exists in today’s production. Steel strings do not oscillate as wildly as nylon strings and generally speaking, extra wide neck on a steel string guitar is not required. But maybe as a custom made instrument for very tall people with extra large fingers?
I find it peculiar and very interesting that there are this somewhat hidden gems on youtube. Knowledge of all sorts.
There are some guys (and obviously also girls) like you out there who just want to give the knowledge they have to others without something in return.
I truly admire that. More popular channels tend to not hold such great value in them. There are of course exceptions to this, but in my opinion this is pretty much the case.
So really thanks for doing this. This should truly be appreciated. And don't forget the lurkers who enjoy this content and don't contribute with comments. They also appreciate.
I agree. I've learned all kinds of mechanics from this channel that I'm very grateful for.
I have an acoustic and a strat but holy shit i’m dying to get my hands on a classical. I’ve also had my eyes on maybe 6 other guitars too but that’s just the way it is, once you get one guitar it’s always “ahh cmon i mean sure i have this one but that one is that one and this one is this one”. No one seems to understand that besides other guitarists
@@heddyrogue4187 dude, I think that everyone can spend their money on whatever they want, if he want to spend his money on guitars, he can
@@briandiarte25 Yeah, that's personal decision. But I was just saying in case someone is short of money.
@@heddyrogue4187 I am glad that you did not get angry about my answer, I feel that I was somewhat rude, sorry
@@briandiarte25 Nothing rude in there 😅
Classical Guitars are cheap asf
I’ve played acoustic for 3 years and for the last year I’ve mainly played classical music. I finally switched and I definitely recommend it. Feels so much better on my fingers even tho I have calluses
I havem t undestand what finally type guitar you have choiced
After playing guitar causally for years with tabs, I decided to break out my acoustic and start learning classical from the beginning. I was a bit disappointed to see that the instruments are different, but this video helped put me at ease. For now I’ll practice and learn proper technique on the steel string, and if I stick with it, I’ll have a nice upgrade waiting as a reward.
I inherited a steel string from my mother. She didn't die she just didn't want it anymore. It took me a long time to get used to how close together the strings are! Really a strange feeling.
lmao why aint you just say your mom gave you a guitar. glad she ain’t dead tho 🙏🏽
I dont know if that was just accidentally being funny but you got me for a ride there
Descalated😂
classical guitar - natural taste of melon
Acoustic guitar - Melona ice cream taste
Steven Choo What exactly is that suppose to mean?
Wise said
your words give me chills
wut
He speaks truth
I played fingerstyle on steel for years, coming from classical background as a kid, could never get the tone I wanted from my nails, always too bright. And chewed up my nails a lot. Switched to a crossover nylon thinking that would be perfect, ended up back on classical because I wanted a wide neck - more space to work with! I also find I can be more emotive on nylon as you pointed out Matt. Good topic!
Hey!.. I too unintentionally chew my naisl. Any tips which can help me stop doing that?
Yash Pandya Nylon strings are suited closer to your natural nail material. Steel strings will wear down your nails in mere hours playing classical pieces, heck, steel strings even wear down picks. But, ringing steel strings are sweet sounding.
@Nic1963 D haha thanks but now I can control myself
I really like how in depth and clear his explanations are. I love this guy, he so different and not pretentious as most. Definitely deserves a sub from me.
Great topic. I started on a typical “dreadnaught” size acoustic and moved to a classical after about a year. I later picked up an acoustic parlor guitar with a wider fretboard and smaller body than a typical acoustic to play fingerstyle folk and blues, using a lot of classical technique. Now I predominantly play the classical and parlor - it’s just an easier transition for me to go between those two vs going between a classical and a typical acoustic.
I practiced your Gypsy Dance tutorial for one day on my new metal string acoustic and my fingertips are on fire! I didn't even know classic and acoustic guitars are different, so now I know it's not just the playing style.
Narrower neck on steel strings makes it possible to bring your thumb over, which is pretty useful if not essential to a lot of modern music. You generally can't get your thumb over on a nylon string, unless it's some sort of hybrid
Sir you're a magnificent acoustic/classical guitar player. I can see the discipline you make to your fingers when hitting the strings.
Yeah I just bought a steel string guitar and damn my finger tips never felt like crying before.
Do you recommend buying one ? i dont know what to choose really
OG_ SynaXx, I only bought it yesterday evening. Maybe I’ll eventually get used to the pain, but I’m seriously thinking about getting a nylon stringed guitar instead. I don’t know much about comparing sound, but these videos seem to explain it pretty well. Plus my 4/4 is pretty big, so I think I’ll opt for a 3/4 sized guitar this time.
@@og_synaxx2591 it depends on the type of music you want to play. steel hurts at first but not for long
@@og_synaxx2591 get a nylon one, when you have learnt classic music, playing modern songs on acoustic will take almost no time to master. I had both and if you want to go serious on learning i would suggest you to start your journey with a classical one.
When you're just starting out, make sure not to push it too hard. If you play to the point where your fingertips hurt too much to play the next day, it's harder to get into the habit of playing regularly, and it'll take a longer time for your callouses to develop. Once you have your callouses you can play for hours on end without pain :)
Hi Allen Mathews, I'm from Brazil, I study classical music on steel guitar and when I have some mastery over music and I play on nylon guitar
I saw a recital featuring the great Carlos Montoya in 1975 Pasadena Commmunity Center. He played both styles of guitar. It was an amazing experience. I was invited by my friend who was VP at the new company Sony Corp! I will never forget him and his stories about his songs!
When you guitar teacher is not Alice Cooper, but sheldon.
i like trains.
This is an interesting objective look at things. I agree with everything that was said.
However if you're planning on "really" playing classical guitar in any formal capacity then it makes sense to invest in a classical guitar. Doesn't have to be very expensive. There are some really good Cordoba or Yamaha options to get you started without breaking the bank.
However if you're an existing fingerstyle guitarist, and you just want to play some classical pieces and are already proficient at playing fingerstyle on acoustic then by all means. Paul Davids is a good example of such a versatile player.
Imo choose the guitar that best suits your taste in music
Really like your channel! I learned to play 'classical' on my old acoustic guitar. I mean, one can learn from it, but in my case, after a couple of months, as soon as i could, I switched to a classical guitar with nylon strings and found it much better for the repertoire..
I've been playing for decades on both.
But,What especially I like on a classical guitar is I don't have to plug it into an amp when I'm home, meaning less noise And it adapts well to Jazz & Bosa
Nova style guitar
Any instrument can adapt to jazz to be honest, or most genres for that matter. Tommy Emmanuel comes to mind when talking about acoustic guitar.
@@eustace8520 and don't forget tony rice. Some of the best steel string jazz to ever be created came from a bluegrass guy
I've been playing steel string acoustic using primarily fingerstyle and I just wanna say string spacing isnt consistent. I've noticed acoustics made for modern country are usually made for a pick, so the strings will be closer together. However, my main guitar was set up for fingerstyle playing and the strings are much closer to a classical, the only problem I have playing a classical is compensating for the size of the neck, personally. But that's a quick adjustment, play for a minute and I'm good.
Good video. Still to this day I hate steel string acoustic. I started on one in '77, my brother's, and finally got an electric in '84. I came back to the acoustic a few years later but that time it was nylon string classical style and I started experimenting with Classical then. ...huge difference. I highly recommend nylon/classical style...thanks.
Fantastic comparison, thank you!
That background is the definition of "tasteful"
Michael Chapdelaine plays some pieces on steel string guitar, also I saw a video of Andrew York playing "Sunburst " on steel strings
There is always great info to be found in the classical guitar shed. Much appreciated.
I play for 9 years now, I started with acoustic guitar, but when I get classical guitar (4 years ago) and listen to classical music, I must say that classical guitar is much easier (for me) to play. But most people rather the sound of acoustic guitar so for my own fun and practice, I play on classical, but for people I play on acoustic in classical way, which is not the best what I can becouse as You set, it's harder to play (steel strings, and wider neck). Of course I have to practice on both guitars, but for myself, I chose classic more often.
I started playing on a classical guitar many years ago but switched to steel for two reasons: I liked the brighter sound and, because I have smallish hands. I liked the fact that the frets were closer together and the strings not so far apart. I never played anything but classical music over the many decades I'be been playing and probably I'd be a little better player if I'd stuck to classical guitar....and maybe not. Anyway, now I have an 8 string "classical-acoustic" and wouldn't switch. It makes playing easier when you can tune the two extra bass strings to low f# , or low g or g# and have a nice open sound on those notes and also not have to stretch to stop strings for those notes.
How hard was the switch to a steel string?
Been playing a classical for a month now lol
I'm wondering the same?
@@JAF2991 I don't recall it being particularly hard to switch.
I don't recall it being particularly hard to switch.
I mostly play acoustic fingerstyle. I tend to jump from steel strings to nylon strings to see what works best for the song that I am playing to my ear.
Just recently I started learning classical guitar techniques, and I find a lot of the techniques to make for better ergonomics and easier playing even on my steel string guitar.
I have to admit that I am a bit intimidated by classical guitar, as there are so many awesome guitarists out there, and my lack of formal training can feel like an impediment, however I have chosen to try to learn one song at a time, and try them on steel and nylon strings to see what I prefer. I may later upload a video of a classical piece on nylon and one of the same piece on steel strings to let people listen and choose for themselves what they may prefer.
I love the tone of the nylon strings, so I do play nylon at least as often now as I play steel strings.
I'm strictly a classical guitarist on steel strings
@@JT-gm4fk Cool, I like it.
Thank you!!!! Because I have an acoustic but I have found I am being drawn to classical as of late.
a very instructive lesson. kudos to you sir, BRAVO!!!
I don't have steel string acoustic but I do have classical guitar and an electric guitar, and I think the neck width difference is not that big of an issue. Just something one needs to get used to.
I usually rotate between a steel string, classical, and electric guitar just to stay comfortable in each one
Plays toward back end of strings to emphasize the brighter nail sound. Like the before and after pictures of people. They smile in the after pictures
Look for the videos of Tina S. She plays Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata on a rock guitar. It's mainly some fast pick work and finger tapping. It's like making the guitar into a two handed instrument like a piano instead of the right hand strumming or picking.
Thank you thank you thank you!!! This answered so many of my questions! So glad I found your channel!!!
That's how I started when I was 14. I wouldn't say that I was planning classical music but finger picking and I also knew how to read(most guitar players don't).
Is there any person on this planet, who really plays classical repertoire on steel string? Not fingerstyle, not just a guy, who plays one or two popular classical pieces, but someone who is seriously treating acoustic like an instrument for classical music? Can you call just one name, that i can browse and find some really impressive stuff?
Alexandr misko
@@JT-gm4fk
After seeing your response to the question above, I immediately went to check out Alexandr... He does not play classical repertoire. He is clearly a fingerstyle/acoustic player. So no, we still need to find a player who *is seriously treating acoustic like an instrument for classical music* as per the question...
Totally agree and find Matthew's accomodating compromise a bit misleading
Agustín Pío Barrios, a Paraguayan virtuoso classical guitarist and composer, played and composed on steel string guitar. His repertoire is a must for classical players.
@@zvonimirtosic6171 Thank you! Great recommendation!
Agreed on the popularity in different parts of the world. In Mexico (and probably in all of Latin Europe and Latin America) a “guitar” is always a classical guitar. So it is mesmerizing to see and hear live the popular instrument that your family has played and used mostly for accompaniment in traditional trios, mariachi or folklore ensembles, being played as a soloist, classical instrument. The exact same instrument (albeit of a higher quality). An “acoustic” would be a “steel stringed” guitar.
I love California Trio.
They use steel-string guitars
Thank you for this simple but excellent lesson.
Fantastic explanation, thank you
There are some classical guitars with steel strings in Brazil. The same neck dimension but with steel strings.
Ohh. I'd love to have one of those.
Are they good guitars though? If the guitar doesn’t have the right bracing, the guitar can collapse in on itself because of the tension.
@@devbrit2104 yup, those were build with the higher tension in mind. But most were from the time before Segovia and nylon strings, when gut was used in Europe. Due to the lack of availability of this material in Brasil many musicians chose steel strings, but kept the normal dimensions of guitars from that time. Some of the best like Dilermano Reis and João Pernambuco are examples.
Isn't this what crossover guitars are all about?
Thank you for the explanation. I have been struggling with my acoustic guitar that my friend gave me. Because I love playing classical and realizing no matter how hard I try, my fingers keep touch other string.
Now I have my reason to get a classical guitar.
Man, what a helpfull video. Thank you very much for the explanations!
Mine is a washburn with a narrow neck and I don't like it but for now it's all I have, but soon.lower fingerings are a pain on mine, but soon.
Excellent! You confirmed what I was thinking!
Perfect compromise, get a classical “crossover” or hybrid. Also called “fusion.” The nut is usually 1 7/8 inch and the fingerboard has a radius. I just got a Cordoba C9 Crossover and I love it. Plays so much easier than either my vintage Yamaha classical or my steel string acoustic with a too-narrow nut (1 11/16). The sound is plenty bright and loud with high tension nylon strings.
Cordoba makes a whole range of “fusion” guitars with the narrower nut, a cutaway and electronics. (The C9 Crossover that I got has no cutaway or electronics.). Their guitars all have a double action truss rod. Taylor has a few crossover nylon string guitars, including a modestly priced Academy model. Yamaha also makes a classical crossover line. I think it’s called the NT line.
If you are still not convinced, you should look up Sungha Jung, he plays beautiful fingerstyle on steel strings. For instance I play a classical guitar and some classical music as well but I don't hold it like a classical guitar. I hold it horizontal like an acoustic and yes that makes certain select shapes difficult but overall it's more comfortable for me to play that way. There are no restrictions with your guitar, you can play any style with whatever position/angle you are most comfortable with.
I played some years on Classic guitar with Steel strings because I didn't know it was unhealthy for classic guitar but lucky nothing happened. Anyway It was an interesting combination, classic guitar with steel strings sounded like an acoustic one and it was easier to learn on a wide neck.
As an Engineer and musician, I cringe at the misuse of the term "acoustic guitar". "Acoustic" merely means it produces sound with the body of the guitar, as opposed to "electric" which electronically senses the varying magnetic field around a vibrating steel string, and requires a separate amplifier to be heard. All classical guitars are acoustic. So is the American steel-string acoustic guitar. The only difference is the string material, and that nylon-string guitars can be less rigid and therefore can be more responsive. Willie Nelson's famous guitar "Trigger" is a nylon-string guitar, but you'd hardly call it "classical".
I think everyone knows this its literally just a useful distinction as i doubt anyone is confused here.
Nice video Alan...I'm not sure how many know this but there are luthiers who build steel string guitars who will, and do make wider fingerboards for the fingerstyle player that wants a wider neck. Some of the factories that do custom work can do it as well. Doyle Dukes is my favorite steel stringer. Thumb pick and nails from another planet!
I think a lot of people don’t mention that while it’s easier play a nylon string guitar, but classical is the main purpose of a classical which is much much harder than what most people learn on acoustic guitars. Not to mention it takes much more dedication on classical
I don't think so. The low tension of nylon strings make it extremely difficult to finger properly with the left hand, because the string moves away from below the finger; it is always loose (compared to steel string), action is always higher, and the loose string oscillates wildly. Creating a good tone on a Spanish guitar takes many YEARS of practice. But on the the Folk guitar (steel strings), one can create a good tone and even finger a dozen chords within a few weeks of playing.
@@zvonimirtosic6171 Yes, however, you can get higher tension strings. And it's much easier on the hands for beginners while they don't have calices yet and the wider spacing makes it easier to fret strings, while having to reach further (proper tradeoff I'd say) although yea getting good tone is much harder.
I ended up building an acoustic classical hybrid. 7/8 size. Bracing is a cross between the two, classical rossette, 25" scale, 2" neck, classical string spacing but steel strings. Why? I like classical guitars and struggle finger picking acoustics due to spacing. I got drawn to practicng fingerstyle blues. Perfectly playable with nylons but is missing the blues twang from the steels. Only guitars with similar specs are turn of the last century gut parlor guitars that have had tailpieces or reinforcement added to handle steel string weight...😮 Couldnt afford a custom commission so here we are😂
great cause i only have a acoustic one =)
Yes, that helped more than I expected; therefore TWO THUMBS UP TO YOU!! 👍👍
the neck is wider coz the string are squishy and move around a lot, same reason why you can have much lower action on acoustic guitar. You can also use Silk and Steel like strings on acoustic and those are very soft and mellow, heck get a shorter 630mm scale if you want, yet you can have ~1.5mm of action in the middle. Acoustic is faster and has more attack.
The neck is also wider to accommodate the more polyphonic nature of classical music. More work is needed to produce the music ,and more space is needed to do the work... Don't you think?
@@razakza I'd say articulated, classical guitar are the same 6 paraphony as other guitars. I'm not sure, if I have to play a hard piece I cheat and use my shorter scale / smaller neck guitar as it makes me 4 months of training ahead ;)
I heard your point often but I wouldn't say that a cello is more suited to classical pieces because it allows more room to play than a violin, it's not like electric guitar players are shy of shredding!
Sure it helps with string buzz, but no, I think that's a misconception based on the supposed superiority of classical musical instruments to play classical music. There's no such thing, it's just that ~200 years ago there was no other way to build instruments.
On the other hand I believe that the fingerboard being straight helps with fingerstyle.
@@eaman11
Thanks for engaging eaman
*I'd say articulated, classical guitar are the same 6 paraphony as other guitars*
The nature of classical music in the west is still more polyphonic than other forms of music in the west though. The design of the classical guitar then, has been optimised to effectively reproduce said classical music on the instrument.
*I wouldn't say that a cello is more suited to classical pieces because it allows more room to play than a violin*
This is an example of two different instruments that takes away from the point. Both instruments have been effectively designed to convincingly reproduce the nuances of the music. Violinists do not need more space as their instrument is more than able to cover the music with authenticity.
*it's not like electric guitar players are shy of shredding!*
Shredding is mostly monophonic and this reinforces my point about the *optimal-design* of the classical guitar to reproduce the music effectively. As mentioned previously, the nature of classical music is polyphonic. If it had been all about playing fast single-note melodic patterns, with no or little accompaniment figures only, then a narrower neck would be quite fine. The requirements of the music are totally different though.
*I think that's a misconception based on the supposed superiority of classical musical instruments to play classical music*
Your argument here will only be proven when serious musicians are able to effectively and authentically play accepted classical repertoire on steel string and electric guitars routinely, (and not for novelty value).
I would be excited if that happens!
Guess I'm in the minority, but acoustic is the only guitar I've ever played classical on. I tried nylon, just not for me.
Do you use fake nails or use your fingers?
@Celtic Orthodox Prayer
That is interesting indeed. I'm a committed classical guitarist. I see other people like Mary Spender (viola), and Yvette Young (piano), playing the electric guitar... I always wonder how come they did not make their way to the classical guitar instead, considering that they come from classical music backgrounds...
Same with me. I also prefer to play classical repertoire on acoustic. I like the brighter tone of acoustic guitar more and I like still strings more than nylon strings.
Excellent discussion. A couple of basics:
1. The distinction between "classical" and "acoustic" guitar is logically absurd. ALL guitars without electronic pickups (whether nylon or steel strings) are "acoustic" guitars.
2. "Classical" guitar is NOT defined by nylon strings. Many fine non-classical guitars are available with nylon (as opposed to) steel strings.
3. The whole difference is one of style/culture. If you want to study traditional, note-by-note written music, then you want to play "classical guitar." If you want to play pop, jazz, rock, country, folk, worship. etc., and likely never read a note of music, then classical is not for you.
4. "Classical" guitar requires hours weekly grooming your right-hand fingernails, and avoiding any human activity that could possibly compromise a nail. Steel-string guitars may (or may not) involve nail care but nowhere so exacting.
5. If you prefer "acoustic" guitar, and can read music, you can still play virtually any classical guitar composition (gorgeously), but will never be accepted by the purist classical guitar community.
This is the topic I've been waiting for. Thanks, Allen.
Thank you! I've been worrying yesterday because I'm losing hope if i stop learning flamenco or not. This video is helpful thank you. 😊
You are a legend sir .....just subscribed you 😘
I am learning on a steel string. For me it boils down to the sound you want to hear.
when i bought an acoustic guitar they came with a default nylon strings i'm sooooo confused :( but it really helped for my beginner fingers back then. I played a bunch of pop songs and it was too warm unlike other people that i've seen. However, i got used to it after a year. Recently, the strings snapped and i changed to steel after 2 years and the sound is too bright for my liking... now i'm in dilemma bc i wanted to learn classical but can't afford a new guitar :(
Well, I have an accoustic and if you are a really advanced player maybe you can play anything classical, but from my experience (being an intermediate player) you can't play everything with an absolute yes. For example let's try to play tremolo. It can be played pretty easily on high open E but I find it too hard to play it on the heavier notes because the distances are really small between each string. You want to go to the flamenco style of classical? Rasgueados feel weird. My opinion is if you really want to play classical and you intend to invest your time in learning some more advanced techniques, just do yourself a favor and buy a classical guitar. Even a cheap one is going to be preety much ok. I am going to buy one I believe :P
Great video btw.
Folk guitar (acoustic steel string) has a totally different tonal picture: it is more saturated, richer and immediate, the projection is superior. Many techniques developed for the Spanish nylon string guitar are developed to overcome problems of projection and quickly dying tone of the Spanish guitar. Those techniques are NOT necessary on the acoustic guitar. So the music must be adapted, not played the same.
the main problem for acoustic guitars is not narrow neck i.e. 43mm , but the much bigger problem is to find
acoustic guitar with wide neck like 48 mm and more (on classic its 52 mm)..for a reasonable price.. Its either handcrafted guitar area for 48-54 mm neck extra option...or some guitars in middle price range 500 euro but only few models had found with possibility that sound isnt acceptable.. if someone has know wide neck acoustic guitar and for beginners and students please leave a comment
I had this problem too.. There are many narrow neck nylon guitars, not so many the other around.. Seagull have great guitars at a good price with slightly wider neck, but not classical wide.
The best I found was to look at Framus Legacy models at thomann.com of they ship to where you live, I bought a great steel string with 48mm neck, smaller body for 260EUR, om happy with it after changing strings and lowering the saddle.
Very informative!! Thank you!!
I've always played steel, I'm studying classical guitar and thinking about yamaha silent guitar that comes in nylon and steel but I can't make up my mind.
I find the steel string to be more versatile. I play a number of styles on them, including Classical and Flamenco, but nothing beats the soft tone of nylons in some situations.
really nice analysis .. thanks ..
I believe they are properly called A) the Spanish guitar, and B) the Folk guitar. The Folk guitar is in fact WAYS easier to play and produce a good tone.
However, there is also a C) Crossover guitar, which has nylon strings, but the neck design inspired by steel string guitar. The fretboard is around 47-48mm, radiused, thinner and more playable than traditional Spanish, and slightly wider than the usual Folk guitar.
Thank you!! This has answered a lot of the questions i had. I'm a very fresh beginner, and am currently continuing to practice on an acoustic guitar a few fingerstyle pieces that i started learning on nylon. I was confused whether i was doing something "wrong" by doing that.
I am actually preferring the steelstring an the moment because it's building calluses faster, and going back to nylon afterwards feels sooo rewarding. I haven't decided which type of guitar/type of music i want to focus on, so i feel a bit torn haha
I use my classical to play all styles of fingerpicking...from folk to contemporary, jazz, and songwriting of my own originals....but I'm just weird like that...I
I also fingerpick my 12-string, which is a little unusual.
Fun fact: Willie Nelson plays a nylon string guitar. He put a pickup on it, but it's still a classical with nylon strings... it's the only way to get the sound he wants.
Among other differences are: steel strings give longer sustenance than nylon strings and less dynamic range in terms of sound volume. Given these differences, it seems a good approach to play harpsichord music from baroque period on steel strings rather than insisting on nylon. Virtually, steel strings generate sounds close to a harpsichord.
Do you play?
i need nylong strings on the metal strings guitar because i have little hands i cant reach with my pinky or am having real difficulty to do it
hey, thanks for this nice video
what song ypubplay at 1.51 min?
There's one thing that's surprising you didn't talk about. That classical is more traditionally played on nylon. And it sounds more like the original gut strings that music would've been played on in the 18th and 19th centuries. The sound is obviously quite different and it's up to you what you like more.
I only have an acoustic guitar but i play a lot of classical stuff. It's ok i guess, but I've been learning Leyenda for a while now and the tremolo parts are a torture xD
Is Carboda a good brand? I’m learning electric guitar right now and I’m going to buy a classical guitar
*Skip to **5:50*
Thanks me later.
Steel string guitar is also more cheaper than a nylon. I guess more steel strings guitars are produced than classical? Most beginners go with a steel string because they are starting out and don't know if they will like it later.
That's not true everywhere. All other things being equal, a classical guitar should sell at a lower price, because the guitar body is less robust and therefore cheaper to make. I suspect you're comparing knock-off steel string guitars built for price-sensitive buyers in the USA to standard-built nylon guitars. In my experience, when clone guitar makers also build classical guitars, they are looking for quality comparable to name-brand classical guitars. They try to build a reputation for quality in classical guitars so that reputation will transfer to the steel-string cheap knock-offs, their big sellers. Yamaha nylon string guitars, for example, are of sufficient quality to be considered a name brand (and at a favourable price), but their steel-string guitars don't have the quality or reputation of the Martin and Gibson guitars they copy.
I have not played a classical guitar before, I have only played acoustic, but I've heard that the nylon strings on the classical guitar are softer, and I hope to because steel strings make my fingers hurt 😃
Man I wanted a classic guitar but I had to use my brother's old acoustic guitar he abandoned a while ago
Buy one. A lot cheaper than acoustic
I've just been finger picking with my fingertips on the steel string for so long now. I can't do those finger pick things, hahaha.
Can you move from classical to acoustic more easily than the other way around?
Thanks for the awesome info. I just have one question tho. Can i put nylon strings to my acoustic guitar?. Will they work??
Well yes you could but you would need to get nylon strings that have the ball end. Also don’t put steel strings on a nylon guitar as your guitar fret board will likely snap.
@@liamharrington1169 got it thanks.
Good advice.....thanx!
I just went through 5 guitars trying to find the right guitar for classical pieces. I found a guitar nut less than 52 mm wouldn't work for me.
Thank you very much 🙏
Hi. I wanted to know if I can can use plastic chords on an acoustic guitar (for the reasons you mentioned: it really hurts my fingers). The reason why I wanted to buy acoustic (I already have a classical one) is that you can simply plug it in when need to. However, there are no 2/4 or 3/4 sized classical guitars which can be plugged in. Thank you
Thank you I feel better
*sir i switched myself from still to nylon because i want to play finger style, which is much popular now days....so my teacher told me to switched and i did it....but my question is finger style techniques all are classical based then does it easy to play on metal strings( cause finger style guitarist all are playing in metal strings)?.*
Well, steel strings will cut right through your callouses if you play a few hours daily. Also, the sustain of steel strings can cause unwanted overtones in many polyphonic pieces. But, who doesn't love the ring of a steel string, you may need two guitars now,...hehe.
Great video my man! Subbed af.
Thank you
What song does he play??