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Nylon String Guitars

10 Best Nylon String Guitars 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Taylor 814ce-N Grand Auditorium Cutaway Nylon-String - Natural Sitka Spruce Top

Taylor 814ce-N Grand Auditorium Cutaway Nylon-String - Natural Sitka Spruce Top

Taylor Guitars

10.0 score

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The Taylor 814ce-N is a high-quality nylon-string acoustic-electric guitar featuring a Grand Auditorium body shape and a cutaway, which enhances playability by allowing easier access to higher frets. Its spruce top delivers bright and clear tones that complement the warmth of the rosewood back and sides.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,477
Body Size and Shape
Top Wood
Neck Width

Most important from
5 reviews

Body Size and Shape
Despite its premium build and sound, the guitar is noticeably heavier than typical nylon-string guitars, which can affect comfort during long sessions.
Top Wood
The solid Sitka spruce top paired with rosewood back and sides creates a bright, clear sound with warm undertones that impress both unplugged and amplified.
Neck Width
The playability is outstanding, with a setup that feels smooth and comfortable, making it a joy for both beginners and seasoned players.
Electronics
It delivers an incredible presence and responsiveness, producing a tone that truly sings and justifies its premium price.
#2
9.7 score

Godin ACS-SA Slim - Natural Semi-Gloss

Godin ACS-SA Slim - Natural Semi-Gloss

Godin

9.7 score

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The Godin ACS-SA Slim is a nylon-string electric guitar designed with a chambered Silver Leaf Maple body that keeps the weight reasonable while offering a semi-acoustic tone. Its cedar top adds a warm, responsive sound typical for classical guitars, which works well for fingerstyle or softer playing styles. The mahogany neck combined with a Richlite fingerboard provides durability and a smooth feel. The 25.5-inch scale length is slightly longer than many classical guitars, offering a bit more string tension and brightness, which some players may prefer.

Rating
9.7
Body Size and Shape
Neck Width
Electronics

Most important from
32 reviews

Body Size and Shape
Despite being slightly heavier than typical classical guitars, it sits comfortably on the lap and remains manageable during playing.
Neck Width
The neck is exceptionally smooth and comfortable, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly, making playing a true pleasure.
Electronics
This guitar blends a unique, articulate, and rich voice that stands out, especially when amplified through quality acoustic amps.
#3
8.8 score

Yamaha SLG200N NT Nylon String Silent Guitar with Hard Gig Bag, Natural

Yamaha SLG200N NT Nylon String Silent Guitar with Hard Gig Bag, Natural

Yamaha

8.8 score

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The Yamaha SLG200N NT Nylon String Silent Guitar is a versatile instrument perfect for practice, travel, or stage use. Its unique design features a mahogany body and neck, which provides a warm and rich tone. The silent performance aspect makes it ideal for practicing in quiet environments without disturbing others.

Rating
8.8
Electronics

Most important from
132 reviews

Electronics
A versatile guitar that's perfect for both quiet practice and amplified performance.

Top 10 Best Nylon String Guitars 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score
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Taylor Guitars

Taylor 814ce-N Grand Auditorium Cutaway Nylon-String - Natural Sitka Spruce Top

Body Size and Shape: Grand Auditorium, cutaway
Top Wood: Spruce
Electronics: ES-N pickup system

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Chosen by 1477 this week

#2
9.7  score
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Godin

Godin ACS-SA Slim - Natural Semi-Gloss

Top Wood: Cedar Wood
Scale Length: 25.5 Inches
Electronics: Single pickup configuration

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#3
8.8  score
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Yamaha

Yamaha SLG200N NT Nylon String Silent Guitar with Hard Gig Bag, Natural

Body Size and Shape: 38.19 x 14 x 3.47 inches
Top Wood: Mahogany Wood
Scale Length: 26 inches
Electronics: SRT-Powered pickup system

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#4
8.8  score
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Godin

Godin Pro LTD Nylon Acoustic-electric Guitar - Onyx Black

Body Size and Shape: Thinline
Top Wood: Cedar Wood
Electronics: Built-in pickup system

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#5
7.9  score
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D'Addario

D'Addario Pro Arté Nylon Classical Guitar Strings, EJ46-3D, Hard Tension, 6-String Set, Pack of 3

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#6
7.6  score
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Yamaha

Yamaha C40II Classical Guitar, Full Size With Rosewood Fingerboard and Bridge, Natural

Body Size and Shape: Full Size
Top Wood: Spruce
Scale Length: 25.0
Electronics: None

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#7
7.6  score
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Godin

Godin Multiac Nylon Encore Acoustic Electric Classical Guitar, Natural

Body Size and Shape: two-chambered silver leaf maple body
Top Wood: Cedar Wood
Neck Width: 1.9-inch nut width
Scale Length: 25.5
Electronics: Godin Dual Source electronics, piezo

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#8
7.6  score
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Fender

Fender CN-60S Concert Nylon String Acoustic Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Natural

Top Wood: Spruce Wood
Scale Length: 25.3

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#9
7.3  score
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Yamaha

Yamaha CG-TA Nylon String TransAcoustic Guitar with Chorus and Reverb, Classical, Vintage Tint

Body Size and Shape: Classical
Top Wood: Spruce
Scale Length: 25.56
Electronics: Built-in Hall, Room Reverb, Chorus

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#10
7.0  score
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Ibanez

Ibanez TOD10N Tim Henson Signature Nylon-string Acoustic-electric Guitar - Black

Body Size and Shape: 43.75 x 17.53 x 5.75 inches
Top Wood: Spruce Wood
Electronics: Piezo

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Buying Guide for the Best Nylon String Guitars

Choosing the right nylon-string guitar can be a rewarding experience, especially if you know what to look for. Nylon-string guitars, also known as classical guitars, are known for their warm, mellow tones and are often used in classical, flamenco, and folk music. When selecting a nylon-string guitar, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you find the best fit for your playing style and needs.
Body Size and ShapeThe body size and shape of a nylon-string guitar affect its sound and playability. Smaller bodies, like parlor or concert sizes, produce a more focused and intimate sound, making them ideal for fingerstyle playing and smaller hands. Larger bodies, such as grand concert or dreadnought, offer a fuller, louder sound with more bass response, suitable for strumming and louder performances. Choose a body size that feels comfortable to hold and suits your playing style.
Top WoodThe top wood, or soundboard, of a nylon-string guitar significantly influences its tone. Common choices include spruce and cedar. Spruce tops provide a bright, clear sound with good projection, making them versatile for various playing styles. Cedar tops offer a warmer, more resonant tone with a quicker response, ideal for fingerstyle and classical music. Consider the type of music you play and the sound you prefer when selecting the top wood.
Neck WidthThe neck width of a nylon-string guitar affects playability, especially for fingerstyle techniques. Classical guitars typically have wider necks (around 2 inches at the nut), which provide more space between strings, making it easier to play complex fingerings. Some crossover or hybrid models have narrower necks (closer to 1.8 inches), which can be more comfortable for players transitioning from steel-string guitars. Choose a neck width that feels comfortable for your hand size and playing style.
Scale LengthThe scale length is the distance between the nut and the saddle, affecting string tension and playability. Standard scale lengths for nylon-string guitars range from 25.5 to 26 inches. Longer scale lengths provide more string tension, resulting in a brighter tone and more volume, but can be harder to play. Shorter scale lengths offer less tension, making the guitar easier to play, especially for beginners or those with smaller hands. Consider your comfort and the sound you prefer when choosing the scale length.
Bracing PatternThe bracing pattern inside the guitar's body supports the top wood and influences the instrument's tone and projection. Traditional fan bracing is common in classical guitars, providing a warm, balanced tone with good sustain. Lattice bracing offers more volume and a brighter sound, often preferred by modern classical guitarists. Choose a bracing pattern that complements your playing style and desired sound.
ElectronicsIf you plan to perform or record with your nylon-string guitar, consider a model with built-in electronics. These systems typically include a pickup and preamp, allowing you to amplify your sound without losing the guitar's natural tone. Look for features like onboard tuners and EQ controls for added convenience. If you primarily play acoustically, electronics may not be necessary, but they can be a valuable addition for versatility.

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