The guitar has become one of the most popular and widespread musical instruments among both beginners and professionals. Many want to learn how to play the guitar, but not everyone knows the elementary - How are guitars different?, which is the reason for the more complex choice of instrument. Below will be detailed analysis What are the types of guitars and their classification.
Guitars are divided into acoustic and electronic. Acoustic guitars with nylon strings - classic look, on which they play mostly classics. Often, the mediator is not used with them, they are played only with fingers. There is also a folk guitar - the same acoustic, only with six metal strings. Semi acoustic guitar differs in that with the classic acoustic cabinet there are also pickups.
An electric guitar is a musical instrument with metal strings and the main special difference from acoustics is the presence of electromagnetic pickups. Electric guitars, in turn, are classified into bass guitars and solos. There is not much to say here: the solo is a guitar that can be played solo, independent separate parts, and the bass guitar is mainly used as a “foundation” in the face of a low register and harmony that supports other instruments. The difference between an electro-acoustic guitar and a regular guitar is an installed device with which the sound is amplified.
Guitars can be distinguished by a variety of criteria. For example, according to the shape of the body and the structure of the guitar: flattop with a flat body; the archtop can be both acoustic and semi-acoustic, its difference is the presence of f-shaped resonator holes in the soundboard area, its body looks like an enlarged violin; dreadnought is folk guitar relatively large sizes, its timbre is dominated by low frequencies for the most part, and the sound is louder; jumbo is an enlarged folk guitar, it received the greatest recognition from representatives of the country direction; western - an instrument that can be both acoustic and semi-acoustic, under the last frets it has a cutout.
Guitars are also divided by ranges, because each of them is unique according to this criterion: a regular guitar has a range from D small octave to D third, a tenor guitar has a banjo system and only four strings, a baritone guitar is distinguished by an elongated scale and a bass guitar, whose range is one octave lower than that of a conventional guitar.
These plucked stringed instruments also differ from each other in the number of frets: a regular guitar has all the frets; a fretless guitar, more commonly found as a bass guitar, has no frets at all; The slide guitar also does not have frets, but a special device called a slide is used to clamp the strings.
Each instrument has its own home. Guitars appear different countries V different time and also differ by country of origin: the Spanish guitar, which appeared in the thirteenth century; the Russian guitar, which originated in the eighteenth century; ukulele;
Guitars differ in the number of strings; there are guitars with classical six strings, they are used as solo guitars; seven-string guitars can also be soloed; there are even four-strings that often serve as bass guitars; twelve-string guitars are less common and are mostly played by professionals.
Very important factor guitar differences - manufacturer and material. The best electric guitars are made by Yamaha, Gibson, Faster, Kramer and a few others. Manufacturers of acoustic guitars are not much different from electric guitars. As good materials spruce, cedar are used for acoustic guitars, mahogany, in particular, rosewood, for the top deck. Electric guitars are made from alder, ash, linden, agatis and also mahogany.
Many novice musicians can not decide on the instrument that suits their goals. If you enroll in a music school, then you will need to buy a classical guitar to take home to practice. Or you already have one at home. But after playing for a while, the understanding comes that it does not correspond to your plans. Or you walk into a store and are confronted with variety but don't know how the guitars are different. Therefore, first of all, decide on the styles that you most want to perform. And in any case - who forbids you to purchase two instruments (if you have the means) and enjoy playing on both?
What is the difference between an acoustic guitar and a classical guitar? The technical side of the issue
1. Body
The cases of most classics are inferior in size. This is especially noticeable in comparison with westerns, which have wide and massive cases. However, if we take "Palmore" or "Folk", then they will not only be equal in size, but even lose to some classics. If you put two guitars “backs” (that is, backs with decks) to each other, you can clearly see the difference in the width of their “torsoes”.
2. Vulture
It also depends on how accurate you want to play. The classic has a slightly wider neck. The fact is that in this kind of music it is important that every note sounds clearly. Therefore, for the convenience of hitting with fingers, the distance between the strings is slightly increased. When played acoustically, a couple of “underpressed” notes do not feel so strong. In addition, it will be easier for a young student to learn the location of notes and accurately hit them when there is “space” for the fingertip. True, this is more suitable for people with wide palms or long fingers. Also, the distance between the strings at the 3rd fret and at the 15th will be proportional (unlike acoustics, where it narrows a little).
3. Strings
The difference between an acoustic guitar and a classical guitar is also in the strings. The first is almost always put metal. There are times when it is difficult for a person to master rather hard and thick strings, and nylon is put in to make it easier. However, the sound will not be as rich, as they are intended for other purposes.
On the classic put exclusively nylon. There are cases when metal was installed on them. But doing this is not recommended. WITH highly likely there will be body distortion, fretboard distortion, and so on.
4. On acoustics, the neck is attached to the body at the 14th fret, on the classics at the 12th fret
The neck on the classics is attached after the 12th fret, on acoustics after the 14th fret. The difference of 2 units is not so significant, but when playing at high frets, you will immediately notice that the hand will rest against the body and it will be more difficult to reach the strings, especially the bass ones. Checking this is easy, just play the C major scale or any other scale around the 12th fret and you will immediately understand everything.
5. Different fastening of strings on the bridge
The different design of the bridges causes differences when replacing a worn-out set. The acoustic bridge most often consists of a solid plate with holes. In each of these grooves, the “tail” of the string is lowered (inside the body) and fixed with a special sleeve with a slot (boss, pin). In the classics, the string is passed through the holes from the outside and secured by tying knots. follows approximately the same pattern. Slip into the mechanism and spin the peg. But on the classics, you need to hold the edge of the string so that the knot does not untie.
6. The presence of an anchor and a glued neck
The differences between the guitars also lie in the absence of a truss rod in the classics. It is installed to protect the neck from deformation (on acoustics). Therefore, the classic neck is wider and thicker.
The neck of a classical guitar is glued in. In acoustics, it is attached to the body with a bolt.
7. Peg mechanisms
They also differ in that they are metal in pop instruments. There are open and closed views. The classic is dominated by an open mechanism. This requires care from contamination and mechanical damage. But they can be regularly lubricated, which ensures long work and “perseverance” of the string.
8. Spring system in the body
Variety instruments use a spring system that covers the guides and closes them in places of the greatest load. IN classic version more common is a fan-shaped spring system, which distributes the load throughout the body. In the second case, the load on the tool is much less, so there is no need to strengthen the frame. In the first example, the springs provide not only the possibility of installing metal strings, but also reliable protection from deformation. In addition, with this technology, the guitars stay in tune longer and produce a high-quality sound at the output.
9. Fret markers on fretboard
Quite often on westerns and jumbo there are dots on 3, 5, 7, etc. frets. Both on the lining itself and on the side. They are necessary both for orientation by the numbering of the frets themselves, and for designating the tonics and reference steps of the scales. On the classics, such marks are on the side.
10. Number of strings
Classic - 6 strings. Stage - 6, 7, 12 and more rare variations.
11. No kataway cutout for playing high frets
On many westerns (electro-acoustic), jumbo and auditorium there is a kataway - a cutout from about 12-14 frets for ease of playing on high notes. Usually students music schools and conservatories there are no such cutouts. It is believed that this affects the characteristics of the sound. But craftsmen can also make kataway for the classics.
12. The presence of straplocks for attaching the belt
The differences between the guitars are also in the presence of straplocks. Dreadnoughts and their relatives are widely used when playing "on the weight" and require a strap attachment. Flamenco and Spanish, because of the special fit, do not need such an addition as .
The difference between an acoustic guitar and a classical guitar. playing instruments
1. Ways to play
Different types of guitarssuppose various techniques execution. The pop style involves playing with the use of a mediator. Metal strings sound louder and clearer. In addition, techniques are used that are very inconvenient to play with your fingers (but with a pick, that's it). Fingerstyle with percussive tapping on the body can cause damage. Therefore, the second is traditionally played with fingers (in particular, nails right hand). Of course, flamenco and the gypsy repertoire make extensive use of techniques such as rasgueado and combat. But they are not a priority, and often special guitars with a reinforced soundboard are used for these purposes.
2. Sound and volume
The classic has a warm and soft sound. Initially, it was used for performance in chamber halls. Therefore, it does not have a special volume. Dreadnoughts are more sonorous and sharp, there is “iron” in their sound.
An example of the sound of a classic
Acoustic example. Start at 37 seconds
3. Absence of Golpeador
Golpeador is a special plate that is applied to the top deck (under the rosette) to protect against mechanical damage. On acoustics, when playing with a mediator, the deck often hits. With an expressive game of fights, you can scratch or even break through the top layer. On classical, the golpeador is not used. However, it is put on flamenco instruments or made by masters at the request of the client.
4. Differences in Fit and Special Fittings
In the classics, the fit and location of the guitar are strictly monitored. It should lie on the left foot with the bar tilted up about 45 degrees. Also, professionals use a footrest. This provides a secure base. Variety artists have no exact restrictions. Therefore, often the instrument is placed on right leg and has no particular support.
5. Playing as a mediator
On the classics, they do not play with a mediator. Yes, and there is no special meaning - the sound characteristics do not allow it to sound louder or louder. Also the plector will slide off the nylon.
6. Acoustic guitars stay in tune better.
The structure of the body, the acoustic system of springs, iron strings allow you to keep the system longer.
7. Different applicability in play styles
What is the difference between an acoustic guitar and a classical guitar? – in addition to specifications also a repertoire.
Classic:
- Classical music different eras(baroque, classicism, neoclassicism);
- Brazilian music (bossa nova, samba);
- Gypsy music (gypsy jazz, folk);
- Romance;
- Spanish (flamenco).
Acoustic:
- Country;
- Estrada (pop, pop-rock);
- Rock'n'roll;
- Blues and bluegrass
Price and choice
It is impossible to say for sure how the guitars differ in price. There are expensive and cheap models for both types. However, it is better to look for a quality budget instrument for a beginner among acoustic guitars.
Conclusion
The differences between the guitars are not so significant as to strictly recommend any one option. Moreover, both classics and pop artists regularly borrow the techniques of the game, and also try different instruments. But you should know how guitars differ in order to determine your goal, which you will comprehend with your new girlfriend.
Once I came to a music store to buy my first instrument, and asked me to give me a classical guitar, but with iron strings. What was the dialogue like:
So what kind of guitar do you like? Classical or acoustic?
What is the difference between classical and acoustic guitar models?
- there are differences, now I will tell you them, and show both guitars.
Let us and we will tell you what is the difference between these guitars and which one is better.
When choosing this musical instrument, at first you may come across two of its most popular definitions - classical and acoustic model. People who want to learn how to play the guitar often ask the same question on various forums - which of the two varieties of this musical instrument is better and more preferable. As in many cases, there is no clear and specific answer to this question. Everything depends on the particular case. But, nevertheless, after reading this article, each reader will understand the difference and will be able to consciously decide and make the right choice of the model that suits him.
classic model
The history of the classical guitar dates back several hundred years and dates back to the eighteenth century. The country of origin of the “classics” is Spain, due to which, in common people, such a guitar is sometimes called “Spanish”.
Features and properties:
The instrument of the Classical model is distinguished by a relatively small body (amateurs call it a drum), which adds to its convenience and elegance. The body, as a rule, is made of valuable coniferous wood - cedar, spruce, etc.
This variety has a wide neck, which has either a solid section, consisting of one solid wood, or has a composite character (several wooden blanks stacked on top of each other). As a rule, nineteen frets are located on the fretboard of the classic version (a fret is the distance between two vertically located metal rods).
The neck is attached to the body with glue.
The musical instrument is equipped with nylon (plastic-based material) strings, which can be black or White color. Strings of this material do not give of great importance resonance, resulting in a quiet and soft sound.
The genres of music most suitable for playing on this type of guitar are Spanish, Latin American compositions, as well as ballads, plays, romances.
Due to its simplicity and convenience, this musical instrument is often used for teaching in educational institutions.
The classic model is perfect for beginners due to its small size, soft strings and comfortable neck.
acoustic model
This variety does not have rich history, as in the case of "classics". The age of the acoustic model is about a hundred years. The instrument gained worldwide fame, coming from America, where in the middle of the twentieth century such musical directions like jazz and folk. After all, the works of these genres, performed to the accompaniment of "acoustics", sound very picturesque and attractive.
Properties and features:
The musical instrument has a large body, which, in part, provides a deep sound.
In the middle of the section, along the entire length of the "acoustics" neck, there is a metal rod - an anchor. This element provides strength to the neck structure and prevents it from breaking, since the strings are stretched with great effort and create a considerable bending force. In addition, a metal anchor adjusts the position of the neck relative to the body.
The neck is glued to the body like a classical guitar.
The musical instrument is equipped with metal strings, which, by creating high values of resonance with the body, provide the features of the sound of "acoustics". The strings may have an outer braid of various materials. The metal of the winding affects the sound. Eg:
- Phosphor bronze. Strings with this combination of material have thicker, richer bass and a velvety sound, but less clear high frequencies. The braid on these strings is bronze-orange.
- Bronze-tin. The strings are optimal in terms of high and low frequencies, in most cases they are put by eminent manufacturers of musical instruments on their guitars. Braid yellow-gold
- Steel or nickel steel. In the common people they call them "silver" although there is no silver there by itself. Characterized by a distinct bright sonorous sound. Silver gray braid.
Important: it should be noted that the use of metal strings in the classic version is unacceptable, since the absence of a steel anchor in the “classic” neck can lead to its breakage due to the high tension of such strings.
Works that are relevant for performance to the accompaniment of "acoustics" are classified as rock and roll, pop, chanson, folk music and any courtyard melodies.
To learn such a guitar will be a little difficult, since metal strings cut fingers more strongly. But if you are ready to endure three weeks, then the sound will certainly please you.
Choice between two tools
When making a choice, a beginner should focus on the following points:
The metal strings of an acoustic guitar, due to the rigidity of the material and strong tension, are capable of a short time provide calluses to the fingers of an unprepared person. Of course, this phenomenon is temporary and over a certain period the fingers will become coarse, ceasing to cause inconvenience when playing, but at first the player will be accompanied by unpleasant sensations.
Soft nylon strings classical model much better in this regard. In addition, due to the small tension force, they are less likely to break.
The number of strings in the "classic" is always six, while the "acoustic" can have from six to twelve strings (twelve-string guitar).
For young musicians the small case of the classic model will be preferable, unlike the "acoustics", the overall dimensions of which you need to get used to.
Manufacturing materials
If we talk about the material from which the case is made, there are two main options - wood or plywood.
- Wood provides the sound with a deaf and noble character, but on the other hand, a case made of precious woods significantly increases the cost of a musical instrument. Do not forget about storage - the tree does not tolerate temperature extremes and high humidity conditions, which negatively affects the sound quality.
- Plywood is more resistant to moisture, temperature changes or direct sunlight. The cost of such guitars is usually not high, eminent guitars will cost from 90 US dollars or from 6,500 rubles. But, these guitars do not have a good and deep sound.
It was noted above that the “classic” neck is wider and in the case of playing using special “barre” chords, the left wrist will experience pain at the beginning of use, due to the need to completely cover the neck with the fingers.
Another difference between the two models is the lack of a truss rod in the "classic" neck.
The anchor gives greater structural reliability and resistance to external environment, as well as the ability to adjust the deflection of the neck. Although Increasingly, budget models of classical guitars have a truss rod in the neck.
When playing an acoustic guitar, a mediator is often used - a special plate made of metal or plastic, which adds volume to the sound. To the "classic" such a device is not applicable, unlike the first option.
Summary
Having considered the features, properties and differences of each of the guitars, it will become much easier to choose one of the two options considered and say which of the models is best for you.
However, all the above points relate, by and large, to physical characteristics, which are far from always decisive.
In the first place, nevertheless, it is worth taking out your musical preferences. "Acoustics" is capable of producing much louder, clearer and higher tones. Therefore, if the player tends to pop directions, rock and roll, jazz, blues or folk, then feel free to take an acoustic guitar, and you will not regret your choice.
But the classic should not be written off. This type of instrument is ideal for performing classical compositions, incendiary Spanish melodies, romances and plays. and also great for learning.
Over time, you will have both models, since each of them is unique and cannot replace the other.
At first glance, an acoustic guitar is the same as classical guitar. However, any connoisseur of musical instruments will be ready to argue with you. In order not to get confused and not to confuse these two concepts, read the differences between acoustic guitar and classical guitar.
Definition
Both acoustic and classical guitars are plucked strings. musical instruments, which are used as an accompaniment for the performance of songs, dances of various genres (author's, folklore), due to the fact that the design generates sound resonance. At the same time, the concept of “acoustic guitar” is wider than the concept of “classical guitar”, in addition to classical guitar, acoustic guitars include jumbo (round guitar), ukulele (Hawaiian guitar with four strings), Russian guitar with seven strings and others. As the name suggests, the classical guitar is a conservative, formalized instrument. This is the main type of acoustic guitars, the most popular. It is on it that they perform classical works, and in musical educational institutions learn to play this type of guitar. To play such a guitar, a pick is not needed, because due to the features of the body, the sound does not turn out to be muffled, as is the case with a dreadnought, which is an acoustic guitar (but not a classical one) - a pick is used to play it.
The structure of classical and acoustic guitars
Findings site
- Acoustic guitar is a more general, collective term than classical guitar.
- Acoustic guitar can have a different number of strings (4,6.7,12). The classical guitar has 6.
- Classical guitar - classical, formalized and at the same time the most popular version of the acoustic guitar
- The classical guitar is usually played without the help of a pick, which cannot be said about some other varieties of acoustic guitars.
The decision to buy a guitar will sooner or later put you in front of a choice: acoustic or classical. There is, of course, a third option, an electric guitar, but this solution is not suitable for everyone. Let's look at the main differences between acoustics and classics and evaluate their advantages and disadvantages.
Classical guitar is not without reason bears such a name. This instrument is designed to perform classical music, plays and romances. Its design is almost indistinguishable from the old ones. spanish guitars. No wonder such a guitar is sometimes called the Spanish. It is she who should be bought for a student of a music school.
Design features of the classical guitar
Nylon strings
. This is one of the main features of the classical guitar. Nylon strings are softer, deeper and quieter than metal strings. Attempts by unfortunate musicians to amplify the sound by changing the strings usually end in instrument breakage, since the classics are designed for the gentle pressure of nylon. He also spares the fingers of novice musicians, soft strings do not require excessive effort when clamping chords. 
The fastening of the strings is also different, they are tied with a special knot. Sometimes you can see unusual hybrids: classical guitars with metal strings. In most cases, these are the products of Soviet factories, used for gatherings around the fire or courtyard concerts. Serious firms rarely produce such instruments. In addition to nylon, there are carbon strings and gut strings made from animal intestines. 
Case size. The classical guitar is smaller and often more elegant than its acoustic counterparts.
Neck width. The fretboard of a classical guitar is quite wide, usually on it 19 frets, twelve of which are located between the body and headstock. Often performed from whole piece tree. A large distance between the strings allows you to conveniently play by picking, clamping individual notes. In other words, this neck is ideal for finger picking. Deflections are not allowed.
Acoustic guitar is also called variety. Her history is closely connected with America, such styles as jazz and country. This instrument became popular only recently, in the twentieth century. Acoustic guitars are very versatile. They come in various sizes, with and without electronic filling, even the number of strings varies. Other than the above styles, great for performing contemporary music including pop and rock. It is more convenient for playing with a pick than with a finger technique.
Design features of an acoustic guitar
metal strings. Their sound is much richer, richer and brighter than that of kapron. In addition, it is an order of magnitude louder. Additional qualities The braiding of the strings adds to the sound. Manufacturers are constantly competing, releasing strings with a braid of various metals. To extract a spectacular sound, the performer has to make great efforts. Learning chords, especially closed ones, can become serious test for the beginning musician. You can make the task a little easier by installing more thin strings, but it is impossible to achieve softness of kapron.
Number of strings. If classical guitars are exclusively six-string, then acoustic guitars can have four, six, seven or even twelve strings. However, most musicians use six-string instruments. 
Big sizes. The speaker cabinet is larger and stronger. In combination with metal strings, a large resonator allows you to get a really powerful sound. Often, the manufacturer makes a special cutout that makes it relatively easy to play on the last frets. A characteristic element of the acoustic guitar is the pickguard. This is an overlay on the body that protects the deck from pick strikes.
Narrow neck. The neck design of an acoustic guitar has a number of differences. It is noticeably narrower than the classical one, the strings are located closer friend to friend. This allows you to more conveniently take chords, when playing with a strike, the sound is more solid. An anchor is often installed inside the neck. This is a metal rod that adjusts the curve of the neck, which is quite acceptable on acoustic guitars. Another difference - more frets.
