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ChristopherSchlegel
Guitar Tricks Instructor
Joined: 08/09/05
Posts: 8,380
ChristopherSchlegel
Guitar Tricks Instructor
Joined: 08/09/05
Posts: 8,380
08/17/2007 4:15 pm
Personal preference here, but I love the La Patrie series by Lasido:
http://www.lasido.com/lapatriee.htm

I have two of them, an Etude standard and a Hybrid Concert Cutaway (scroll down a bit):
http://www.truthagainsttheworld.com/Tools/

Typically, if you are not used to them, classical guitars seem kind of "clunky". They can take some getting used to. But, still, look for something that "fits" your hands and body (torso, arms, lap) and is not uncomfortable. Most have a totally flat (zero radius) fretboard and fairly high action. They don't have to, but many do. It can be altered somewhat, but it really is a different beast. Look for one with decently low action to start with, a re-inforced neck (not all have truss rods), and an even fretboard and guitar top. Especially around the bridge, make sure it's nice and flat and the strings aren't already pulling the bridge up and making a little hump from the pressure.

My Hybrid is named as such because it has a small radius (slight curve to the fretboard). And both of the La Patries are very strong in the bass range and round and mellow in the treble. I like that response. Many classicals have too "dull" or "flat" sounding bass end for my taste. And then the treble range sounds too thin or bright.

Also, consider getting a classical with electronics/pickup already built in if you want that option. It's better than trying to install that stuff later on. My Etude is non electric and the Hybrid is with electronics built in.

Hope this helps.
Christopher Schlegel
Guitar Tricks Instructor

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