Yamaha C40 II

For many guitar teachers, the Yamaha C40 (now the C40 II) is the default answer to "which classical guitar should a beginner buy?". It's a full-size, nylon-string guitar built to a budget, with Yamaha's reliable quality control behind it.

Specifications

• Top: spruce (laminated)
• Back and sides: meranti
• Neck: nato
• Fingerboard and bridge: walnut
• Scale length: 650 mm
• Nut width: 52 mm
• Strings: nylon

Why nylon strings for beginners?

Nylon strings are softer and lower in tension than steel strings, so they hurt less while your fingertips toughen up. Classical guitars also have a wider neck that keeps strings further apart — useful for clean fingerpicking and correct classical technique, though some adults with small hands find full-size necks wide. Half- and 3/4-size versions exist for children.

Sound

The C40 II has a warm, gentle tone typical of nylon-string guitars. It's not as rich or loud as solid-top classical guitars, but it's even and pleasant across the neck.

Limitations

• Laminated top means modest volume and depth.
• Stock strings are basic — new strings (and a few days for them to settle) improve the sound noticeably.
• No gig bag in most bundles.

Verdict

An inexpensive, dependable start for classical, flamenco and fingerstyle lessons. Players who want a richer tone should look at the solid-cedar-top Cordoba C5 or the Kremona Sofia S65C.