Acoustic Guitars vs Classical Guitars
Though both acoustic and classical guitars fall under the “acoustic” category and produce music using their natural sound without technological assistance, there is a key difference between the two. Despite the fact that both types of guitars can be used with amplification devices, these devices are separate from the guitars themselves, allowing for accurate reproduction of their pure, natural sounds. Acoustic and classical guitars have distinct appearances, making it easy to tell them apart.
What are Acoustic Guitars?
The steel-string acoustic guitar, or simply the acoustic guitar, is a popular acoustic instrument among music enthusiasts. This type of guitar uses steel strings to produce louder sounds and comes in various forms, with flat-top guitars being the most well-known. Acoustic guitars are commonly used in a range of music genres, such as rock, blues, folk, and country, and maintain a traditional appearance and structure.
What are Classical Guitars?
The modern classical guitar is sometimes referred to as the “Spanish guitar” due to its origins in the designs of 19th-century Spanish luthier Antonio Torres Jurado. Classical guitars are known for their extensive right-hand technique, which allows performers to create intricate melodies. These guitars are not limited to classical music and can be used for various music styles, such as folk, jazz, and flamenco. Classical and acoustic guitars differ in their construction and sound production: classical guitars have nylon strings and a wider neck, while acoustic guitars have steel strings and a slimmer neck. Classical guitars produce a mellower sound compared to the brighter sound of acoustic guitars. Nylon strings also make classical guitars more beginner-friendly.
Both types of guitars produce high-quality music, and choosing between them comes down to personal preference and the desired outcome when playing the guitar.
Key Takeaways
- Acoustic guitars use steel strings and have a slimmer neck, producing a louder, brighter sound. They are commonly used in rock, blues, folk, and country music genres.
- Classical guitars, also known as Spanish guitars, use nylon strings and have a wider neck, resulting in a mellower sound. They are suitable for a variety of music styles and are more beginner-friendly due to their nylon strings.
- The primary difference between the two types of guitars is their construction and sound production, with personal preference playing a significant role in deciding which one to choose.
