Difference Between an Acoustic and Classical Guitar

Guitars have been captivating music enthusiasts for centuries, and their diverse range of styles and types contributes to their enduring popularity. Two widely recognized types are the acoustic and classical guitars. While they may appear similar at first glance, there are fundamental differences that set them apart. I have been teaching them for the past 20 years. In this blog post, we will delve into answering the question, “What’s the difference between an acoustic and classical guitar?” We’ll shed light on their unique features and sound characteristics. Whether you’re a beginner seeking the perfect instrument or a curious enthusiast, understanding these distinctions will help you make an informed decision.

Table of Contents

Body Shape and Construction:

One of the most noticeable distinctions between acoustic and classical guitars lies in their body shape and construction. While both acoustic and classical guitars serve different musical purposes, their body shapes are designed to optimize their respective tonal qualities and playing styles.

Acoustic Guitar Body Shape:

Acoustic guitars typically feature a larger and broader body compared to classical guitars. They are designed to project sound effectively without the need for amplification. The most common body shape of an acoustic guitar is referred to as a “dreadnought” shape, characterized by a wide waist and a rounded lower bout. This shape helps produce a balanced tone with a strong bass response and clear treble notes. Other common acoustic guitar body shapes include the concert, auditorium, jumbo, and parlor styles, each with its own unique dimensions and tonal characteristics.

Classical Guitar Body Shape:

Classical guitars, also known as nylon-string guitars or Spanish guitars, have a distinct body shape that differs from acoustic guitars. They have smaller and more compact bodies compared to acoustic guitars. The shape is often called a “classical” or “Spanish” shape. It has a narrower waist and a more pronounced hourglass figure. The body is typically shallower, which contributes to a mellow and warm tone. Classical guitars have nylon strings, which require less tension than the steel strings found on acoustic guitars. The smaller body size and nylon strings result in a more delicate and nuanced sound, making classical guitars ideal for classical, flamenco, and fingerstyle playing.

Strings and Tension:

Another significant difference between the two guitar types is the type of strings and the tension they require. Acoustic guitars typically use steel strings, which produce a bright and vibrant tone. These strings require higher tension to maintain their pitch and may be harder on the fingertips for beginners due to their increased gauge and sharper feel. Conversely, classical guitars traditionally utilize nylon strings, which offer a mellow and warm sound. The lower tension of nylon strings makes them more comfortable to play, especially for beginners or those with sensitive fingers.

Neck and Fretboard:

The neck and fretboard of a guitar greatly influence its playability and suitability for different playing styles. The neck and fingerboard of acoustic guitars and classical guitars also exhibit some differences. It’s worth noting that there can be variations and exceptions to these general differences, as guitar manufacturers and individual preferences can influence the specifications of neck profiles and fingerboard dimensions.

Neck Profile:

The neck profile refers to the shape and contour of the back of the neck. Acoustic guitars typically have a slimmer and narrower neck profile compared to classical guitars. This design allows for easier chord changes and facilitates faster playing styles, such as strumming and flatpicking. The narrower neck profile also accommodates the steel strings found on acoustic guitars, which require more tension to be properly tuned. On the other hand, classical guitars have a wider and thicker neck profile. This design provides more spacing between the strings, making it easier for fingerstyle playing, complex chord voicings, and intricate fingerpicking techniques. The wider neck allows for precise finger placement and facilitates the execution of classical guitar techniques, such as arpeggios and intricate melodic lines.

Fingerboard Width:

The fingerboard width, often referred to as the nut width, also differs between acoustic and classical guitars. Acoustic guitars typically have a narrower fingerboard width compared to classical guitars. This narrower width complements the slimmer neck profile and is suitable for players who prefer a faster playing experience. It allows for easier fretting and chord transitions. Classical guitars have a wider fingerboard width, which provides more space between the strings. This extra spacing facilitates accurate fingerpicking and fingerstyle techniques, as well as allows for precise control over individual string articulation.

Fingerboard Material:

While the choice of fingerboard material can vary for both types of guitars, there is a common tradition for classical guitars to use softer woods such as rosewood or ebony for the fingerboard. These materials contribute to a smooth and warm tonal quality, allowing for a balanced sound and good sustain. Acoustic guitars may use a variety of materials for the fingerboard, including rosewood, ebony, or synthetic alternatives like composite or micarta. The choice of fingerboard material can influence the overall tone and feel of the instrument.

Sound Characteristics:

When it comes to sound, acoustic and classical guitars offer distinct tonal qualities. These sound characteristics differ due to several factors, including body shape, string type, and construction techniques.

Tonal Qualities:

Acoustic Guitars: Acoustic guitars typically have a bright and versatile sound. The larger body shape, combined with steel strings, contributes to a strong projection and enhanced volume. Acoustic guitars excel in producing a wide dynamic range, allowing for powerful strumming, rich resonance, and balanced tonal response across the frequency spectrum. The bass notes on acoustic guitars are often pronounced, offering a punchy and robust low-end.

Classical Guitars: Classical guitars are known for their warm and mellow sound. The smaller body size, combined with nylon strings, produces a softer and more intimate tone. Classical guitars emphasize the mid-range frequencies, resulting in a smooth and rounded sound. The bass response on classical guitars is generally less pronounced compared to acoustic guitars. The focus is on achieving clarity and separation between notes, making them ideal for fingerstyle playing and intricate melodic lines.

Sustain and Decay:

Acoustic Guitars: Due to their larger body size and steel strings, acoustic guitars often exhibit longer sustain. The strings resonate for an extended period, allowing notes to ring out and blend together, particularly when strummed or played with a pick. The decay of the notes tends to be gradual.

Classical Guitars: Classical guitars, with their smaller body size and nylon strings, tend to have a shorter sustain compared to acoustic guitars. The notes decay relatively faster, resulting in a more articulate and defined sound. The shorter sustain can be advantageous for intricate fingerpicking and precise note articulation.

Articulation and Expressiveness:

Acoustic Guitars: Acoustic guitars offer a wide range of articulation and expressiveness. The steel strings and bright tonal characteristics allow for a strong attack and a wide palette of playing techniques. They are well-suited for genres that require dynamic strumming, flatpicking, and energetic playing styles.

Classical Guitars: Classical guitars excel in producing nuanced articulation and expressiveness. The nylon strings and softer tonal qualities allow for a greater degree of control over each note, making them ideal for fingerstyle playing, intricate melodic lines, and delicate phrasing. The classical guitar’s ability to produce subtle tonal variations enables players to convey a wide range of emotions.

It’s important to note that these descriptions provide a general overview, and individual instruments can have unique tonal characteristics depending on various factors such as wood selection, construction quality, and personal playing style.

Playing Styles and Musical Genres:

The design variations between acoustic and classical guitars contribute to their suitability for different playing styles and musical genres. Acoustic guitars are versatile instruments that excel in strumming, flatpicking, and playing with a pick. They are popular choices for singer-songwriters, band performances, and genres where rhythmic accompaniment is prominent. Classical guitars, with their wider neck and nylon strings, are favored for fingerstyle playing, classical compositions, and intimate solo performances that require intricate fingerpicking and precise articulation.

For more auditory clarification, here are two videos featuring fingerstyle on a classical and acoustic. They are different songs but you can tell immediately the difference in the sounds. The first is David Russell playing a classical guitar and the second is Tommy Emmanuel playing the acoustic.

Conclusion to “What’s the difference between an acoustic and classical guitar?”

While both acoustic and classical guitars share the same fundamental concept, they possess distinct characteristics that cater to diverse playing styles and musical preferences. Acoustic guitars are renowned for their versatility, bright tone, and suitability for a wide range of genres. On the other hand, classical guitars embody a more traditional design, providing a warm and delicate sound that resonates beautifully in classical and fingerstyle compositions. Understanding the differences between these two guitar types empowers musicians and enthusiasts to choose the instrument that best aligns with their musical aspirations and playing techniques.

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Chadwick Becks

I have two degrees in guitar performance and was privileged to study under Aaron Shearer, Tom Kikta, David Skantar, Ken Karsh, Tim Bedner, and currently Christopher Berg. Outside my editorial work on this blog, I teach full-time across many genres including classical, jazz, blues, rock, funk, and metal.

Unveiling the Distinctions: What’s the Difference Between an Acoustic and Classical Guitar