If you’re wondering whether Cordoba C12 is a good classical guitar or not, don’t worry – you’ve come to the right place! In today’s in-depth review, I’m going to take a very close look on that unique high-end model. It’s a pretty expensive instrument, but is it actually good and is it better than Cordoba C10?
The answer is YES! Cordoba C12 is one of the best high-end classical guitars that you can currently find on the market. In comparison with the cheaper C10, it slightly better, but it doesn’t mean that the C10 is bad.
Let’s dive deeper with research to find out what exactly makes the C12 model so good and so popular among the intermediate and professional guitar players. Firstly, we’ll start with a quick overview of the specifications of that model. Additionally, we’ll compare the spruce and cedar versions and we’ll compare the C12 model with Cordoba C10.
Overview – Specs & Pricing
Cordoba C12 is a high quality classical guitar designed for the most demanding guitarists out there. It has absolutely everything you need from a high-end guitar – the looks, the feel and the sound. It’s also available in two versions: with solid cedar or solid spruce tops.
Additionally, the C12 model features the back and sides made of solid Indian rosewood with flame maple center wedge. There’s also a really comfortable mahogany neck with an easy-playing ebony fretboard. This is a huge advantage, because it allows you to practice for several hours without getting tired.
The sound of that guitar can be described as rich, lively and resonant. No matter whether you decide to choose the cedar or spruce top, you can be sure that even simple chords will sound amazing on that guitar. It certainly sounds like a premium model.
What’s important, it is also worth mentioning that the C12 model looks absolutely beautiful from the outside too. It has a natural lacquer finish which will allow it to mature its tone over the years. Surely, it will only sound better in the future.
When it comes to pricing, let’s be honest – this is not a cheap guitar. However, considering how well made and how great sounding it is, it doesn’t seem to be overpriced at all. In my opinion, it’s definitely worth the money. That’s why I highly recommend checking it out!
Here’s the demo.
Cedar vs Spruce
A lot of guitarists often can’t decide whether they should choose the cedar or spruce C12 models. Both of these guitars are great, but which one of them is actually better?
Here’s the answer: it’s all really subjective. While some people prefer the sound of guitars with solid spruce tops, other players adore guitars with solid cedar tops. Hence, it’s difficult to clearly determine which C12 model is better.
Personally, I prefer the sound of spruce – it’s a bit brighter and clearer. However, I know that a lot of players are in love with the fullness and the depth of the solid cedar wood.
Here’s a really good video that compares the tone of these two guitars – feel free to check it out below.
Pros & Cons
Just like any other classical guitar available on the market, this guitar has its own advantages and disadvantages. That’s totally normal! However, it seems pretty clear that this particular model has far more pros rather than cons.
There are a lot of things that can be considered as major advantages of the C12 model. It looks, sounds and feels like a premium classical guitar. Additionally, it comes with a high quality hardshell case and it’s suitable for the most demanding players out there. Who needs anything else?
The main disadvantage of Cordoba C12 is the undeniably high price. No matter whether you want to get the spruce or solid version, you’ll have to spend quite a lot of money to add it to your own collection. This is probably the biggest obstacle that may stop you from getting it for yourself.
Nevertheless, even though it’s an expensive guitar, it’s totally worth it. If you’re searching for a premium classical guitar which is a true piece of art, you should definitely consider getting the C12. It exceeds all the expectations!
Who Is It For?
Cordoba C12 is suitable for guitarists of all levels, so you don’t have to be an experienced player to notice and appreciate the uniqueness of that model.
However, since it’s not a cheap guitar, most of the time it’s used by intermediate and professional classical guitarists.
This is a fantastic instrument for any musician who’s looking for a high-end classical guitar suitable for studio sessions. It’s perfect for recording, so if you’re searching for a new guitar to record your next album with, this is the way to go.
It is also worth mentioning that the C12 is a very versatile model, so it can be used in a lot of different styles of music. No matter whether you prefer strumming or playing with your fingers, the tone of that guitar won’t disappoint you.
Overall, I’m positive that the vast majority of guitar players will really benefit from adding this model to their own collections. This is definitely one of the best classical guitars that you can currently find on the market.
C12 vs C10
As you’re already aware, C12 isn’t a cheap guitar, so not everyone is able to get it straight away without saving up. That’s why quite a lot of guitar players choose a cheaper Cordoba model – the C10. But can it actually compete with the high-end C12?
Overall, it seems that the C12 is a bit better than C10, although the sound difference isn’t that big. Both of these guitars sound equally amazing, but the C12 is a bit more comfortable to play thanks to the raised fingerboard.
If you can’t afford getting the C12, choosing the C10 will be a really good idea. But if you don’t really care about the price and you’re looking for the best possible classical guitar for yourself, you should stick with the C12.
Here’s a quick video that compares the tone of Cordoba C12 and C10 – feel free to check it out.
Any Alternatives?
If you’re not satisfied with the overall quality of Cordoba C12 or you simply can’t afford it right now, that’s not a big deal! There’s still quite a lot of other fantastic classical guitars that also deserve a lot of attention.
Of course, choosing a brand new guitar will depend on your own personal preferences and most importantly, on the size of your budget. Still, here’s a few more guitars that you may also like.
Alternative Option #1 – Cordoba Fusion Orchestra
Cordoba Fusion Orchestra CE is a fantastic alternative option for those who are searching for a great sounding and reliable classical acoustic-electric guitar suitable for live performances and studio sesions.
The guitar has a features a solid Canadian cedar top with Indian rosewood back and sides. Additionally, there’s also a really comfortable mahogany neck with an easy-playing ebony fretboard which guarantees an enjoyable playing experience.
Who is it for? Well, I think that it will be a perfect fit for both amateur and more advanced guitar players. This is a great guitar to start with, but at the same time it’s an ideal choice for all gigging musicians out there.
In comparison with the C12, the Fusion Orchestra CE is also far more affordable. Undoubtedly, if you can’t afford getting the high-end C12, choosing this particular model may be a really good idea for you.
Alternative Option #2 – Cordoba C5
Cordoba C5 is a great sounding classical guitar suitable for guitarists of all levels. This is not a high-end model, but in comparison with other similar guitars available at this price range, Cordoba C5 offers the best value for the money.
The guitar features a solid Canadian cedar top with mahogany back and sides. On top of that, there’s also a comfortable mahogany neck and a smooth rosewood fingerboard.
Of course, when you directly compare the C5 and C12 models, it’s pretty clear that the C5 isn’t as good. It’s not a premium guitar, but considering how affordable it is, it’s definitely worth the money. Additionally, it’s also a really good choice for beginners who are searching for their first classical guitar!
Alternative Option #3 – Cordoba C3M
Cordoba C3M is one of the cheapest classical guitars manufactured by this famous brand. But although it’s cheap, it doesn’t mean that it sound or feel cheap. In fact, it offers a surprisingly good value for the money.
The C3M model has a solid cedar top with mahogany back and sides. There’s also a comfortable mahogany neck with an easy-playing rosewood fingerboard.
This is a pretty cheap guitar, so it’s mainly recommended for amateur guitarists. However, I’m sure that even more advanced players will be really satisfied with its quality.
I have no hesitation in recommending this model to all guitarists who are searching for a good, reliable and and inexpensive classical guitar. It’s not as good as Cordoba C12, but it’s still worth every cent.
FAQ
What is the scale length of that guitar?
The C12 model has 25.6″ scale length.
What is the nut width of that guitar?
The C12 model has 2.04″ nut width.
Where can I find out more about Cordoba guitars?
If you want to learn more about Cordoba guitars, make sure to visit the official website of Cordoba.
Summary
As you can see, today we took a look at one of the most amazing classical guitars out there. If you’re searching for a high-end instrument of this type, you should definitely consider adding it to your own collection. There’s a really high chance that you’re going to love it!
Let me know what you think of these guitars. C12 or C10, what do you think? Leave a comment down below, I’m really interested to hear your thoughts!
Thanks for checking out today’s review, hopefully it was helpful and you found what you were hoping to find. If you enjoyed this article and you’re searching for more gear recommendations, you may also like:
