My Guitar Notes

classical

C / CG Series (nylon)

C / CG Series (nylon) — video still
Video still: Ulrich Peise
MakerYamaha
OriginJapan
Typeclassical
PriceUSD 439.99 (2026-09)
Maker founded1887
Statuscurrent

Yamaha's long-running nylon-string family, running from schoolroom starter instruments up to cutaway classicals, for players learning classical technique or taking nylon on stage.

Watch

YouTube video Ulrich Peise · 2012-08 — Beginner-focused look at a Yamaha C40 classical with playing samples.

Why it matters

The C series has been the default first classical guitar in many countries for decades, and the CG models sit above it with better materials and, in the flamenco versions, a tighter response. Yamaha's consistency at low prices is why these instruments turn up in classrooms and on stages alike. The range is wide, so the model code carries far more information than the badge.

Note

Student-to-pro nylon standards (C40, CG172SF flamenco).

Specifications

  • Scale length: unknown
  • Neck shape: unknown

Before you buy

  • Model codes span very different build levels, so check the exact number
  • The SF version is set up as a flamenco guitar rather than a general classical
  • Nut width and neck profile differ across the range

Other opinions

One video is one opinion. These are the other videos for this entry, most-viewed first. The order is the view count, not a ranking of ours.

  • YouTube video 5 Minute Music · 2019-02 · 165,139 views

    “In this video I recommend a fantastic guitar, strings and a great book to help you get started on the path to playing guitar.”

    Short talk about the Yamaha C40 with playing samples.

  • YouTube video accordoTV · 2020-02 · 53,885 views

    “Leggi la recensione completa su Accordo: Legni di alto profilo e un'attenzione per la suonabilità fanno della CG192C un'opzione accattivante per chi si avvicina allo studio classico ma anche per i praticanti più…”

    Italian-language demo of a Yamaha CG192C classical guitar.

Sources

Related models

Same body shape / configuration

More from the archive

See also