Choose first flamenco guitar based on some preferences

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masoud_5april

Posts: 1
Joined: Jan. 6 2024

Choose first flamenco guitar based o...

Hello,
Firstly, I'm new to this forum, and my question might sound a little bit silly, but I would appreciate it if you could help me out.
I'm a beginner student of Flamenco, and I'm about to buy my first Flamenco guitar (I have a Yamaha C70 and haven't played for almost 7 years, maybe I'm deaf now). I moved to Montreal; however, there aren't many stores here that sell Flamenco guitars, so I'm super limited in terms of choosing my next guitar in person. I also have the option to order from Spain, but I may not be satisfied unless I'm pretty sure about the product.
Long story short, I came to a local store here and tested out some beginner Flamenco guitars like the Cordoba F7, Raimundo 126 blanca, and Raimundo 145 Negra and camps Primera.
My budget is around $1000 to $2000; however, I prefer a guitar that offers better value for the money. For instance, the Alhambra models here are super expensive.
In terms of sound, I didn't like the Cordoba at all; for me, it sounded pretty much the same as my Yamaha. However, I liked the sound of the Raimundos. I preferred the Raimundo 145 Negra and its tone, but it costs around $1800 CAD. On the other hand, the 126 model costs around $1000 CAD. The seller told me that these Raimundos are the last batch and will not be available in the future. For me, both Raimundos sound similar, but I didn't like the red color of the Raimundo 126.
I also found an Alhambra 4F online, which would cost me around $1600 CAD. I checked the samples on the internet, and it looked decent to me; however, I'm not sure because I haven't tested the guitar myself.
I don't mind spending two grand on a guitar, but I don't want to waste my money on a cheaper model and regret it afterward. I would appreciate it if you could recommend me some guitars that feel like a Negra with a more sustained sound and a sweeter tone, or if I should go with any of the mentioned models. Personally, I liked the 145, but I'm not sure if it's worth the price, especially considering it was the last one they had.
Thanks.

REPORT THIS POST AS INAPPROPRIATE | Date Jan. 6 2024 20:30:04

etta

Posts: 342
Joined: Jan. 20 2010

RE: Choose first flamenco guitar bas... (in reply to masoud_5april)

Look for a good used hand built guitar; even a beater is better than those commercial models if it sets up well to play; repaired cracks, dents, finish, pay no attention if it plays well and sounds good. Also many of the Valencia (cheap guitars build in Spain) are often very good for 1200-1800 bucks used. You can always upgrade if your interest and playing improves.(forget negra vs blanca; go for a quality sound and playabilty; there is not as much difference in the two as you might think.)

REPORT THIS POST AS INAPPROPRIATE | Date Apr. 18 2024 12:57:24