Top-10 Nylon String Guitars
Loved in the USA

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.

The mahogany neck paired with a rosewood fingerboard offers smooth finger movement and a familiar feel for players accustomed to nylon-string guitars. Its scale length and neck width are typical for classical-style guitars, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced players. Equipped with Taylor’s ES-N pickup system, the guitar can be amplified for live performances or recording without sacrificing its natural tone.

Weighing about 23 pounds, it is heavier than many traditional nylon guitars, which may impact comfort during extended playing sessions. The price reflects the premium build and materials used, making this guitar an excellent choice for serious musicians seeking a versatile nylon-string instrument that sounds great both unplugged and plugged in, though it may be less accessible for casual players on a budget.

The Taylor 312ce-N is a nylon-string guitar designed with a Grand Concert body shape, which is comfortable for players who prefer a smaller, more manageable size. It features a top made from Sitka Spruce, a popular wood known for its bright and clear sound, complemented by Mahogany and Sapele that add warmth and balance to the tone. The back and sides are made from Sapele wood, providing additional richness and sustain compared to more common tonewoods.

The scale length is 25.5 inches, slightly longer than many classical nylon guitars, which may result in more string tension and a brighter sound. This suits players looking for a nylon guitar with enhanced projection and clarity. The neck is crafted from mahogany and paired with a mahogany fretboard, generally offering smooth playability and durability. The guitar features built-in electronics, making it an acoustic-electric model ideal for performances or recording without needing additional pickups. It has a fixed bridge system, standard for nylon guitars, ensuring stable tuning and easier string changes.

Weighing 15 pounds, it is somewhat heavier, which may be noticeable during extended standing play. This guitar is a solid choice for those seeking a high-quality nylon-string instrument with a blend of bright and warm tones, plus the convenience of onboard electronics. It is well-suited for intermediate players and performers who value comfort and sound versatility.

The Martin 000C12-16E is a 6-string nylon-string guitar designed with classic tonewoods that blend mahogany for the back and sides and spruce for the top, which is a popular combination for warm yet bright sounds. Its body size is the 000 style, a mid-sized shape that balances comfort and good projection, making it suitable for players who want a guitar that’s not too bulky but still rich in tone. The neck has a low-profile design with an ebony fingerboard, known for smooth playability and durability. Martin’s 000 models typically offer a comfortable neck width for fingerstyle and classical techniques.

The guitar includes an acoustic-electric setup, allowing you to plug in for performances or recording, which adds versatility. The use of mahogany and spruce is good for a balanced sound, but some traditionalists might prefer a cedar top for warmer tones. At 22 pounds, it is relatively heavy, which might affect comfort during long playing sessions.

This guitar serves as a solid choice for intermediate players looking for a reliable and versatile nylon-string guitar with the option to amplify. Those seeking a lightweight classical guitar with very specific tone or traditional neck dimensions may want to verify those details further.