The Stagg C530 Classical Guitar for junior guitarists! These 3/4 size nylon string guitars are perfect starter guitars for children aged approx 9 to 12.

Despite the low price, they are not toys – they are well constructed instruments that give a good tone & a comfortable action. This 3/4 sized classical guitar features a smaller 590mm scale length neck for easier playability and sweet, mellow tone. Children will find nylon strings much easier to play than steel strings – it is easier to hold down the notes & won't hurt the tips of their fingers.

Stagg C530 Features:

• 3/4 Model – Scale length: 590 mm
• Top, Back & Sides: basswood
• Neck: nato
• Fingerboard & Bridge: solid maple (black painted)
• Machine heads: standard, nickel
• High gloss finish
• Best suited for age 9–12

This guitar has an alternative colour & package with accessories option. Click here to view.

What are the differences between classical and acoustic guitars?
Classical guitars have nylon strings with wider necks that allow the strings to be farther apart to facilitate fingerpicking. They usually do not have a strap button on the bottom and often have decorative artwork around the sound hole. Classical guitars are traditionally used to play classical, Flamenco, and folk music. They have a mellow sound. Note that it is not recommended to put steel strings on a classical guitar, since the neck is not reinforced to hold the stronger pull of the steel strings.

Acoustic guitars have steel strings with a narrower neck than a classical guitar. They generally have a strap button on the bottom and a pick guard under the sound hole. Acoustic guitars have a brighter sound than the classical guitar and are used to play popular music, country and many other styles. Acoustic guitars may be amplified using an added pick-up; acoustic-electric guitars have the pick-up designed as an integral part of the guitar.

Should a beginner learn on a classical, acoustic or electric guitar?
A beginner may start on either a classical, acoustic or electric guitar.Some things to consider:

Classical – Nylon strings are easier on the fingers. The neck is wider, so the beginner with small hands may have difficulty fingering some chords. The mellow sound is likely to be less familiar to student than acoustic as classical guitars are rarely used in popular music. No amplifier is required.

Acoustic – The neck is narrower than the classical guitar, making it easier for small hands to play. The sound of the acoustic guitar is familiar as it is used in popular music. Steel strings are harder on the fingers until calluses develop, although it is possible to replace the steel strings on an acoustic guitar with nylon strings with ball ends. No amplifier is required.

Electric – Contrary to popular opinion, there is no reason a beginner cannot start on an electric guitar. Playing the electric guitar can be motivating for the student whose goal is to play rock music. The strings on an electric guitar are closer to the fret board making it a little easier on the fingers than an acoustic guitar. If the student uses an amplifier that has a headphone jack, they can practice without disturbing others. Electric guitars and the required amplifiers are more expensive than beginner classical and acoustic guitars. An amplifier is required, making the guitar less portable.