Almansa 424 Classical

Made in Almansa, Spain in 2001. The model 424 is a step up from Almansa's entry-level guitars. It has a solid cedar top, laminated bubinga back and sides, and rosewood fretboard. The rosette is inlaid woodwork and looks great. The finish is clear gloss lacquer. There is a thin rosewood overlay on the headstock. The gold colored tuners look good, but are only adequate in operation. My one comment overall: the color and grain of the bubinga is just gorgeous! I have another high quality classical guitar, but it doesn't look nearly as good as this inexpensive Almansa.

I've found that this particular guitar sounds best with Savarez Corum Alliance strings. It has a nice, ringing sustain and ample volume. The trebles are slightly strident to my ear when playing alone, but when I play together with other guitarists or a bass it sounds wonderful. I play selections by Tarrega, Albeniz, Rodrigo, Sor, Dowland, and Carcassi.

The setup was excellent right off the shelf. I've owned this guitar for a year and I've made no adjustments. The fit and finish are well above what I'd expect in an instrument in this price range. No flaws in the construction that I can find. Did I mention that the bubinga is beautiful?

I'm sure that with reasonable care, this guitar will last for a century. It's solidly constructed from good quality wood, so the only problems would arise from neglect or damage from an accident.

It came with a one-year warranty, which I never to needed to test.

This is not a concert level guitar. It's a quality student level instrument that offers a lot for the low price. It sounds very good and it looks great. Highly recommended.