REVIEW: Yamaha’s CG171SF Flamenco Guitar

In-Depth & Hands-On

REVIEW: Yamaha’s CG171SF Flamenco Guitar

Disclosure Policy | Thu, Apr 27, 2006 | 139 |

Excellent Tone & Playability

While we’re on the subject of Flamenco, I thought I’d take a few moments to review an instrument that has to be one of the best deals going around in nylon-string guitars – Yamaha’s gorgeous, great-sounding, and cost effective CG171SF Flamenco guitar.

Being a bit manic about authenticity, I was absolutely convinced going into this that if I wanted a decent instrument for playing a decidedly Spanish form of music, well, I’d need a Spanish-built guitar…boy was I ever wrong.

After playing many guitars, at many different price points, I’m happy to let you in on a little secret that I discovered: you’d be hard-pressed to find a Flamenco guitar for less than $1,000 that sounds or plays any better than the Yamaha CG171SF. That’s pretty amazing when you consider that the CG171SF sells for less than $350.

The first thing you notice on this guitar is its beautiful finish. The solid spruce top and cypress back & sides that give the instrument so much of its lovely tone are lovely to look at, too, with very fine natural details evident on all sides. The action all the way up the neck is surprisingly low (a must for the Flamenco player,) and with a new set of strings installed – my favorites are Galli Genius Titanium – there is no audible fret buzz at all.

The CG171SF produces the kind of warm and clear tone that you’d expect from a much more expensive guitar, and it does it consistently, only sounding better as it ages (I say this from personal experience, having owned mine for nearly three years.) Of course, that assumes that you take care of your new guitar, and use a humidifier during the stressful seasons – particularly during the first few years.

The guitar also holds its tuning exceptionally well for extended periods of time – certainly better than any electric guitar I’ve ever owned – and the nato neck is highly playable and just plain comfortable, with a wide, flat fretboard.

Upgrades We’d Make

The only downsides that I’ve come across for the Yamaha CG171SF are admittedly minor ones: a guitar selling for this cheap has to skimp in some areas, and the obvious ones here are the plastic tops of the tuning pegs (they are a nice pearloid color though,) and what is probably a plastic nut. Some day I may find myself replacing the tuners and nut, but currently they give me no problems at all.

Summing It Up

At less than $350 I can’t say enough about the CG171SF. Buy one, replace the stock strings, and you’ve got a beautiful instrument that will provide you years of enjoyment… and may just change your opinion on what a quality guitar should cost.

Related Guitar News & Reviews:

31 Comments For This Post

Rick Says:
May 12th, 2006 at 10:37 pm

I picked one of these up at Guitar Center today after itching to want to play Flamenco for a long long time… I was putting it off because I couldn’t afford a high end DeVoe or similar, and my buddies that play flamenco professionally said that the cheaper flamenco guitars you find in the USA (Cordoba, Conte Hermanos, etc.) don’t have the right neck radius and low enough action.

Today when I tried one of these at the local Guitar Center, and a local professional flamenco player was in the store. He told me that it is the closest thing he’s played that compares to the common flamenco guitars they use in Spain…down to the cypress back and sides and spruce top. He said that you would have to spend thousands of dollars to get a guitar that was much better than this one….and that this is the perfect guitar to learn all of the common flamenco techniques (rascado, etc.). Then he showed me some cool alternative tuning things with phrygian riffs (low E tuned to D….and G string tuned to F#).

Thanks for the heads up on this instrument!

Cary Says:
May 13th, 2006 at 7:20 am

Hi Rick,

I’m really happy to hear you picked on of these up. I was fairly stunned the first time I played one, and of course people still look at me funny when I tell them I play a Flamenco made by Yamaha, but hey — the joke’s on them! hehe.

Perhaps the true test is that a few years later, with the guitar a bit more seasoned, it sounds even better, and the action is still spot-on. In fact — on my guitar, with good strings — if you play up around the 9th or 10th fret on the high E or B strings you even get phenomenal sustain… I mean it absolutely rings. It almost sounds like reverb.

I looked at the Hermonas, Cordobas, etc, and except for those in the $1,500 to $2,000 price range there didn’t seem to be any comparison.

Quick hint: my new favorite strings for this thing are the Galli Titanium Normal Tension. They are concert quality, but not too expensive. I’m getting them from a place called Strings By Mail, mostly because I like to support the mom & pop shops, but I’m sure you can find them other places as well:

http://www.stringsbymail.com/sublist.asp?tCat=1&tMan=5&dMan=Galli&tSer=92&dSer=Genius+Titanium

Good luck with the Flamenco playing — it’s quite a challenge, but quite rewarding too.

edoardo Says:
May 26th, 2006 at 11:45 am

Hi,
I own a classical one, not the flamenco, it’s a CG-171S.
Over that I own a Jose Ramirez 4E plus (look around for the price, over 3.500 dollars), something like:
Features

The two guitars are not comparable, specially because of the different top, S is for spruce, and for the general quality difference in tuners, back and sides. But the little baby is far to be out of the competition.
You get more than what you pay for. Maybe is a good idea to change the tuners with good ones, maybe something like 30 / 40 $, than wait and be faithful. Instead of red cedar top, that come out from the beginning, solid spruce top guitars need at least one year to start singing, primarily because of the natural content of resin inside the wood, going to reduce with the seasoning. Once again, don’t expect to have in your hands a luthier guitar, but the sound is beautiful and clear. I use to play this guitar with D’Addario EJ46 (in the next week I’ll try the Galli titanio GR40), and I think this is one of the best string set, for price performance ratio and for classical music.
Over that, the first reason of Yamaha good sound is in the company history and tradition, Yamaha have luthier classical and flamenco guitar line, and have a very long experience in doing it. So don’t be surprised if a part of this experience has been spent in the industrial line and if these products can be compared with thousand dollar guitars.

And if you don’t have an honest teacher for helping you in choosing the first classical or flamenco guitar, then Yamaha could be a very good starting point. Last but not least, thousand dollars guitars? better to save the money for a good guitar school or teacher.

P.S. It’s rasgueado in spanish, but hey, writing in the right way don’t help you playing it in the right way :-)

lantos Says:
December 14th, 2006 at 11:55 pm

GREAT REVIEWS…THK U FELLOW PPL WHO APPRECIATE FLAMENCO and I am Totally nuts abt Flamenco! I m soon to purchase the CG171SF !~!!!!

George Says:
December 21st, 2006 at 9:57 pm

Sorry to ask what might be a dumb question, but could a nylon stringed guitar like this be strung with regular steel strings without tension problems?

I really like the look of the guitar, but play the blues.

Thank you

Cary Says:
December 22nd, 2006 at 9:02 am

I wouldn’t recommend it… I tried this once when I was a teenager cuz’ I just had to have a steel string and the only guitar I had access to was a classical.

Amazingly, the bridge did stay glued on… but only for about two weeks.

I never heard or saw that bridge come off, but one day I just opened my case and discovered the wreckage….

: (

Herb Morgan Says:
September 4th, 2007 at 9:29 am

Just found the question on possible fitting of steel strings on classical guitars.
I recently received a used Yamaha from the U.S. which sounded superb but was fitted with steel srings. It had come across the pond with no problem and by the look of the strings they were of some age.
Apparently therefore they had been fitted some time ago.

Changing to nylons had no affect on the action or appearance of the top.
Does anyone have any experienceof steel strings that can be used this way.
Regards, Herb.

Luis Says:
September 20th, 2007 at 2:04 pm

Well, according to the books, it is not recommended to put steel strings (for “Acoustic Guitars”) on “Classical Guitars” designed for nylon strings. They are not built to handle the tension of steel strings.

Jon Rutherford Says:
February 6th, 2008 at 1:23 am

I read this post and its comments with interest, since I just obtained a Yamaha CG-171S (non-flamenco) myself about a month ago, and tonight put Galli Titanio normal tension strings on. I like the feel of the trebles better than the feel of D’Addario J-47′s (same trebles as the J-45′s, but alloy-wound bass strings that don’t tarnish). The Galli strings cost quite a bit more, but they may also last longer; guitarist Ana Vidovic said in an interview that she uses the Titanio strings because they last longer, as well as for the way their tone complements her Jim Redgate guitar. If they last well, I may start using the Galli strings instead of D’Addario. The next three or four weeks should tell.

Pleased to read about the satisfaction experienced with the Yamaha CG-series guitars. I bought my second Yamaha because I do think the quality of build and of sound probably cannot be equaled for the money. I suspect the comment about Yamaha’s experience, above, is correct — they apply their lessons learned across the board.

Ron Says:
May 31st, 2008 at 6:32 pm

I recently got a CG171SF, used, for $200. I count myself extremely lucky to have this as my first classical/flamenco guitar. The resonance, harmonics, and playability make this a fun-to-play guitar. I tried many of the (considerably) costlier classical models , and I like the volume, sharp attack, and low action of the flamenco better than any other. I put some new D’Addario EXP45′s and it sings quite nicely. I look forward to trying the Galli strings in the future. I also look forward to travelling down the “flamenco road” with my new friend.

Dan Says:
August 14th, 2008 at 12:42 pm

I put my sophisticated musician friends to the blindfold test against their very expensive Spanish models. To my amazement, the 171sf (3 years old, Galli strings) came out on top 1/2 the time! These guys are gurus and can hear delicate differences. Apparently,the Yamaha has a sound and action that the recording musicians like. Personally, I just love having a fine guitar that is inexpensive enough to trash around and play the daylights out of with no guilt. Classical style guitars will be eventually ruined if you string them with steel.

Hector Says:
October 24th, 2008 at 10:48 pm

Just purchased my CG171SF.
I am new to this and on my way to school!, but went to the store, without any knowledge, just to try how they felt. After 30 minutes of trying, I did like the feel of this one, compared to the rest. I asked the salesperson to please play some flamenco with several models for me to listen, and even him was impressed with the sound of the CG171SF compared to all others, which by the way, was the least expensive of all. Paid 265.00 brand new at Grandma’s in New Mexico.
Gator Lightweight GTR Case – $55
Onstage PRO “A” Frame GTR Stand – $16
Korg Tuner GA-30 – $15
12 assorted Picks – NC
Ask for Mike

Greg Says:
October 26th, 2008 at 8:55 am

Thanks to everyone for the reviews on Yamaha’s flamenco – CG 171 SF. I bought one a couple of weeks ago and just love playing it. I’m just blown away about how good of a deal this is.

I would like to get the Galli Genius Titanium strings – but noticed that they come in various combinations of tension strength for different strings (bases / trebles).

Can someone please tell me whether high tension would place too much stress on this guitar?

Thanks very much

Dan Says:
November 13th, 2008 at 6:03 pm

My new favorite strings are the D’Addario Pro Arte composites. I switched from a “hard tension” to a “medium tension” string on good advice. It is easier to produce the Flamenco growl with mediums. Plus, the D’Addario are popular enough to find good bulk deals.

I did not mention on my 14 Aug comment that I fitted this 171SF with a moose bone saddle. Not that moose is better, I just have free access to this material. I would highly recommend spending a few bucks and get a bone saddle fitted. I feel it is the most economical way to bring out the sound. Although the nut is also plastic, you only hear it when you play an open string so it remains on this guitar. Bob Colossi can duplicate any saddle if you want to try it yourself.

Ez Says:
November 13th, 2008 at 7:28 pm

Im expecting delivery of my one today, i can’t wait to get my hands on it.

I keep hearing such good things about this guitar, thanks to everyone that gave their reviews.

TuP Says:
November 17th, 2008 at 1:37 pm

Hey guys, i’ve been playing classical for a few years now (i have an Alhambra 3C) and recently got interested in flamenco. I think I may buy this guitar, but do you guys recommend any books/videos to get me started? I have some experience with the guitar and I won’t have much time for an instructor because grad school takes up all my time.

Thanks

Paul -p. Says:
November 19th, 2008 at 9:38 am

Wow, Wow, Wow.
that’s what I say about this Guitar.
I purchased it two months ago and I can still not put it down.
The top has one of the most beautiful Sprue tops that I have ever
seen. The sound- both picking and strumming is amazing.
I own and have owned some really nice Nylon and Steel string
guitars and I love this the best.
the action is perfect..I have still not changed the strings, but
I could imagine what great sound it will be after I do.
I owned a Cordobra Flamenco ($575.00) and it does not close to the sound ,workmanship and tone-woods that this one has for $350.00

Dan Says:
November 25th, 2008 at 6:23 pm

Has anyone noticed the veneer on the back as seen through the sound hole on their 171SF? I am certain mine is spruce with a better grain pattern than my soundboard, by the way. Some Ramirez modern concert guitars use a cypress veneer on the sides. I have heard of a construction style that utilizes the soundboard wood for the veneer on the back inside. Is this what is happening with your guitar??? Perhaps there is something to learn here.
Thanks for your info.

Bob MacLean Says:
January 15th, 2009 at 3:01 pm

Am in the market for a reasonable classical guitar under $1000. I will be looking at the CG171SF… Yamaha also makes a CGX171SCF which is very similar but with a cutaway and electronics. Nice axe, but unfortunately, IMHO, they made an error in the current chinese factory product. Its beautiful but the nut width is 1 7/8 rather than the full 2 inches. (neither a classical or a flamenco!) Some like that, but I prefer the wider nut. The models made before the new Chinese factory in Jan 07 were from Taiwan and were well made & had the wider nut.
The new CGX171SCF models are around $600. I might just pick up the CG171SF and put in a Baggs Element voiced for nylon.

Graham Sergeant Says:
January 20th, 2009 at 4:45 am

I have played a classical guitar for a number of years – (after a style!) – and wanted to try playing flamenco without committing myself to between £1000-£2000 for a reasonable Spanish instrument. After having read a number of very positive reviews about the CG171SF Yamaha, I decided to buy one. I bought mine from Thomann who apart from a 30-day trial/return period also offer a good guarantee and inclusive shipping!! Thomann’s service is excellent and the guitar arrived in perfect order (from Germany) As suggested I fitted a set of reasonable quality Hannabach flamenco strings (Medium Tension). The guitar is beautifully made and produces an excellent authentic flamenco sound. In my view it is fantastic value at around £350.

Craig Says:
January 29th, 2009 at 7:37 pm

I have played steel-string acoustic guitars off and on for many years, and am now considering a nylon-string guitar. But the action on the “classical” guitars I’ve tried seems so high and difficult to get used to. Would any of you recommend a “flamenco” guitar like the Yamaha CG-171-SF for someone like me, or is it only suited for playing highly percussive flamenco-style music? I am hoping to learn to play chord-and-melody songs that are suited to nylon instruments so well. The sound quality is of course important to an extent, but my primary concern is the neck/action. Thanks for any help/advice!

Graham Sergeant Says:
February 1st, 2009 at 11:13 am

Craig,

I think that the Yamaha CG-171-SF would meet your requirements. It has a low action and good playability and sound both for flamenco and classical/modern music. It is recommended that you fit a set of decent quality dedicated flamenco strings – you’ll need to experiment to find what suits you. I’ve had my guitar now for only a fortnight – but I can’t put it down. For the price of around £350 it is fantastic value!

Craig Says:
February 6th, 2009 at 11:10 pm

Thanks for the feedback, Graham! I appreciate it — and will be shopping for a CG-171-SF soon.

Zebo Says:
March 3rd, 2009 at 11:52 pm

Can anyone compare the Yamaha CG171SF and Rodriguez C1 based on their personal experience? I am torn between the two. Thanks.

Toronto Says:
April 6th, 2009 at 8:57 am

I tried this Yamaha out about a few weeks ago and I was pretty impressed by the sound quality/price ratio.

For anyone who doesnt have much experience with flamenco and wants to just get a feel of this type of andalusian music, this Yamaha is a great start and will always encourage you to pick it up and play more.
One’s wallet will be happy as well.

Of course, it won’t compare to luthier made guitars with aged wood ($3K +). But until one gets to that level, this Yamaha is just great!

FlamencoMaster Says:
November 16th, 2009 at 9:06 pm

I’ve been playing flamenco for a long time and I can honestly say this guitar is real value for money. I highly recommended for anyone entertaining the idea of learning flamenco guitar.

I picked it up in the shop and gave them a blast of buleria, the shop attendant came wondering over, i stopped…. he said no no keep playing lmao.

I think I sold it for him lol :))

Ragu Says:
April 30th, 2010 at 2:32 pm

Guitar Center has this new 15% off , trade up sale going on in May so I took my old Yamaha Fg700S classic and played with the CG171SF ($300), and the Manuel Rodriguez C3 ($500), expecting the Rodriguez to sound slightly better – NOT. Try both right in the store and compare, the
CG171SF has this classic flamenco sound to it. You can play right along with the $1000 spanish flamenco guitars and the CG sounds right up there.
The Rodriguez C3 has great keys though, unlike the CG but if your looking for sound quality the CG has it.
Its best to show up with one of your flamenco buds, this way you can play both together and contrast and compare, even the salesman got into the comparison bit.

Robert Says:
May 15th, 2010 at 8:18 pm

Does anyone have an opinion about the difference between the Yamaha Flamenco and the Cordoba F7 or the Cordoba C7?

I am a beginner, I have been studying classical guitar for 6 months, and I will study Flamenco in Spain this summer. I like the sound and the playability of the Cordoba C7 with the spruce top and Rosewood back and sides – I know it is a classical, but it sounded better to me than the Yamaha. The Cordoba C7 still has a pretty low action, but without any fret buzzing, which the Yamaha had a lot of.

Opinions?

Thanks.

Omaima Al Najjar Says:
June 17th, 2010 at 12:55 am

I use to use a samick classical guitar, I am now considering turning into flamenco style .. and I want to start with a agood guitar so i would learn easly, especially that i am learning at home!
this guitar cost arund 550 American dollar now .. which is a good price compared with other good guitars!

I can’t wait to get mine, I live in saudi .. so I’ll ask friend who is studying there coming back to Saudi this summer to bring it with him! :D
I am sooo excited and happy!
a review of the guitar sound on youtube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CW9VizZbSTs

Samuel Lawson Says:
December 3rd, 2010 at 8:22 am

I completely agree with the assessment of the cg171sf – the absolute best flamenco guitar you can get for under $1000. It’s got the req’d ‘punch’ on every note that makes it equally a percussion instrument and gorgeous melody maker. My concert classical cost 10x what this one is, and thought the application is different, I would have no qualms whipping this Yamaha out in a mixed programme after playing my Hill.

BTW, do not ever ever ever put steel strings on a classical guitar unless you plan on using it for firewood later. Having said that, my dad bought a 1975(+/-) cg100 (I actually am not sure about the model, but think this is it) for my older brother back in 1989. He fiddled around with it for a year, and I picked it up and started learning about classical guitar – and that you never ever put steel strings on it… this instrument had steel on it for years. I replaces them with some D’Addario nylons strings, and it was fine. It’s still not a good idea, but that old Yamaha is a tank! (still have it)

Andrea Logan Says:
April 23rd, 2011 at 7:22 am

@Samuel
Thanks for the tips on not putting steel strings on a classical guitar.
Almost came to a sticky end there.

Rick Says:
May 12th, 2006 at 10:37 pm
I picked one of these up at Guitar Center today after itching to want to play Flamenco for a long long time… I was putting it off because I couldn’t afford a high end DeVoe or similar, and my buddies that play flamenco professionally said that the cheaper flamenco guitars you find in the USA (Cordoba, Conte Hermanos, etc.) don’t have the right neck radius and low enough action.

Today when I tried one of these at the local Guitar Center, and a local professional flamenco player was in the store. He told me that it is the closest thing he’s played that compares to the common flamenco guitars they use in Spain…down to the cypress back and sides and spruce top. He said that you would have to spend thousands of dollars to get a guitar that was much better than this one….and that this is the perfect guitar to learn all of the common flamenco techniques (rascado, etc.). Then he showed me some cool alternative tuning things with phrygian riffs (low E tuned to D….and G string tuned to F#).

Thanks for the heads up on this instrument!
Cary Says:
May 13th, 2006 at 7:20 am
Hi Rick,

I’m really happy to hear you picked on of these up. I was fairly stunned the first time I played one, and of course people still look at me funny when I tell them I play a Flamenco made by Yamaha, but hey — the joke’s on them! hehe.

Perhaps the true test is that a few years later, with the guitar a bit more seasoned, it sounds even better, and the action is still spot-on. In fact — on my guitar, with good strings — if you play up around the 9th or 10th fret on the high E or B strings you even get phenomenal sustain… I mean it absolutely rings. It almost sounds like reverb.

I looked at the Hermonas, Cordobas, etc, and except for those in the $1,500 to $2,000 price range there didn’t seem to be any comparison.

Quick hint: my new favorite strings for this thing are the Galli Titanium Normal Tension. They are concert quality, but not too expensive. I’m getting them from a place called Strings By Mail, mostly because I like to support the mom & pop shops, but I’m sure you can find them other places as well:

http://www.stringsbymail.com/sublist.asp?tCat=1&tMan=5&dMan=Galli&tSer=92&dSer=Genius+Titanium

Good luck with the Flamenco playing — it’s quite a challenge, but quite rewarding too.
edoardo Says:
May 26th, 2006 at 11:45 am
Hi,
I own a classical one, not the flamenco, it’s a CG-171S.
Over that I own a Jose Ramirez 4E plus (look around for the price, over 3.500 dollars), something like:
Features
The two guitars are not comparable, specially because of the different top, S is for spruce, and for the general quality difference in tuners, back and sides. But the little baby is far to be out of the competition.
You get more than what you pay for. Maybe is a good idea to change the tuners with good ones, maybe something like 30 / 40 $, than wait and be faithful. Instead of red cedar top, that come out from the beginning, solid spruce top guitars need at least one year to start singing, primarily because of the natural content of resin inside the wood, going to reduce with the seasoning. Once again, don’t expect to have in your hands a luthier guitar, but the sound is beautiful and clear. I use to play this guitar with D’Addario EJ46 (in the next week I’ll try the Galli titanio GR40), and I think this is one of the best string set, for price performance ratio and for classical music.
Over that, the first reason of Yamaha good sound is in the company history and tradition, Yamaha have luthier classical and flamenco guitar line, and have a very long experience in doing it. So don’t be surprised if a part of this experience has been spent in the industrial line and if these products can be compared with thousand dollar guitars.

And if you don’t have an honest teacher for helping you in choosing the first classical or flamenco guitar, then Yamaha could be a very good starting point. Last but not least, thousand dollars guitars? better to save the money for a good guitar school or teacher.

P.S. It’s rasgueado in spanish, but hey, writing in the right way don’t help you playing it in the right way :-)
lantos Says:
December 14th, 2006 at 11:55 pm
GREAT REVIEWS…THK U FELLOW PPL WHO APPRECIATE FLAMENCO and I am Totally nuts abt Flamenco! I m soon to purchase the CG171SF !~!!!!
George Says:
December 21st, 2006 at 9:57 pm
Sorry to ask what might be a dumb question, but could a nylon stringed guitar like this be strung with regular steel strings without tension problems?

I really like the look of the guitar, but play the blues.

Thank you
Cary Says:
December 22nd, 2006 at 9:02 am
I wouldn’t recommend it… I tried this once when I was a teenager cuz’ I just had to have a steel string and the only guitar I had access to was a classical.

Amazingly, the bridge did stay glued on… but only for about two weeks.

I never heard or saw that bridge come off, but one day I just opened my case and discovered the wreckage….

: (
Herb Morgan Says:
September 4th, 2007 at 9:29 am
Just found the question on possible fitting of steel strings on classical guitars.
I recently received a used Yamaha from the U.S. which sounded superb but was fitted with steel srings. It had come across the pond with no problem and by the look of the strings they were of some age.
Apparently therefore they had been fitted some time ago.

Changing to nylons had no affect on the action or appearance of the top.
Does anyone have any experienceof steel strings that can be used this way.
Regards, Herb.
Luis Says:
September 20th, 2007 at 2:04 pm
Well, according to the books, it is not recommended to put steel strings (for “Acoustic Guitars”) on “Classical Guitars” designed for nylon strings. They are not built to handle the tension of steel strings.
Jon Rutherford Says:
February 6th, 2008 at 1:23 am
I read this post and its comments with interest, since I just obtained a Yamaha CG-171S (non-flamenco) myself about a month ago, and tonight put Galli Titanio normal tension strings on. I like the feel of the trebles better than the feel of D’Addario J-47′s (same trebles as the J-45′s, but alloy-wound bass strings that don’t tarnish). The Galli strings cost quite a bit more, but they may also last longer; guitarist Ana Vidovic said in an interview that she uses the Titanio strings because they last longer, as well as for the way their tone complements her Jim Redgate guitar. If they last well, I may start using the Galli strings instead of D’Addario. The next three or four weeks should tell.

Pleased to read about the satisfaction experienced with the Yamaha CG-series guitars. I bought my second Yamaha because I do think the quality of build and of sound probably cannot be equaled for the money. I suspect the comment about Yamaha’s experience, above, is correct — they apply their lessons learned across the board.
Ron Says:
May 31st, 2008 at 6:32 pm
I recently got a CG171SF, used, for $200. I count myself extremely lucky to have this as my first classical/flamenco guitar. The resonance, harmonics, and playability make this a fun-to-play guitar. I tried many of the (considerably) costlier classical models , and I like the volume, sharp attack, and low action of the flamenco better than any other. I put some new D’Addario EXP45′s and it sings quite nicely. I look forward to trying the Galli strings in the future. I also look forward to travelling down the “flamenco road” with my new friend.
Dan Says:
August 14th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
I put my sophisticated musician friends to the blindfold test against their very expensive Spanish models. To my amazement, the 171sf (3 years old, Galli strings) came out on top 1/2 the time! These guys are gurus and can hear delicate differences. Apparently,the Yamaha has a sound and action that the recording musicians like. Personally, I just love having a fine guitar that is inexpensive enough to trash around and play the daylights out of with no guilt. Classical style guitars will be eventually ruined if you string them with steel.
Hector Says:
October 24th, 2008 at 10:48 pm
Just purchased my CG171SF.
I am new to this and on my way to school!, but went to the store, without any knowledge, just to try how they felt. After 30 minutes of trying, I did like the feel of this one, compared to the rest. I asked the salesperson to please play some flamenco with several models for me to listen, and even him was impressed with the sound of the CG171SF compared to all others, which by the way, was the least expensive of all. Paid 265.00 brand new at Grandma’s in New Mexico.
Gator Lightweight GTR Case – $55
Onstage PRO “A” Frame GTR Stand – $16
Korg Tuner GA-30 – $15
12 assorted Picks – NC
Ask for Mike
Greg Says:
October 26th, 2008 at 8:55 am
Thanks to everyone for the reviews on Yamaha’s flamenco – CG 171 SF. I bought one a couple of weeks ago and just love playing it. I’m just blown away about how good of a deal this is.

I would like to get the Galli Genius Titanium strings – but noticed that they come in various combinations of tension strength for different strings (bases / trebles).

Can someone please tell me whether high tension would place too much stress on this guitar?

Thanks very much
Dan Says:
November 13th, 2008 at 6:03 pm
My new favorite strings are the D’Addario Pro Arte composites. I switched from a “hard tension” to a “medium tension” string on good advice. It is easier to produce the Flamenco growl with mediums. Plus, the D’Addario are popular enough to find good bulk deals.

I did not mention on my 14 Aug comment that I fitted this 171SF with a moose bone saddle. Not that moose is better, I just have free access to this material. I would highly recommend spending a few bucks and get a bone saddle fitted. I feel it is the most economical way to bring out the sound. Although the nut is also plastic, you only hear it when you play an open string so it remains on this guitar. Bob Colossi can duplicate any saddle if you want to try it yourself.
Ez Says:
November 13th, 2008 at 7:28 pm
Im expecting delivery of my one today, i can’t wait to get my hands on it.

I keep hearing such good things about this guitar, thanks to everyone that gave their reviews.
TuP Says:
November 17th, 2008 at 1:37 pm
Hey guys, i’ve been playing classical for a few years now (i have an Alhambra 3C) and recently got interested in flamenco. I think I may buy this guitar, but do you guys recommend any books/videos to get me started? I have some experience with the guitar and I won’t have much time for an instructor because grad school takes up all my time.

Thanks
Paul -p. Says:
November 19th, 2008 at 9:38 am
Wow, Wow, Wow.
that’s what I say about this Guitar.
I purchased it two months ago and I can still not put it down.
The top has one of the most beautiful Sprue tops that I have ever
seen. The sound- both picking and strumming is amazing.
I own and have owned some really nice Nylon and Steel string
guitars and I love this the best.
the action is perfect..I have still not changed the strings, but
I could imagine what great sound it will be after I do.
I owned a Cordobra Flamenco ($575.00) and it does not close to the sound ,workmanship and tone-woods that this one has for $350.00
Dan Says:
November 25th, 2008 at 6:23 pm
Has anyone noticed the veneer on the back as seen through the sound hole on their 171SF? I am certain mine is spruce with a better grain pattern than my soundboard, by the way. Some Ramirez modern concert guitars use a cypress veneer on the sides. I have heard of a construction style that utilizes the soundboard wood for the veneer on the back inside. Is this what is happening with your guitar??? Perhaps there is something to learn here.
Thanks for your info.
Bob MacLean Says:
January 15th, 2009 at 3:01 pm
Am in the market for a reasonable classical guitar under $1000. I will be looking at the CG171SF… Yamaha also makes a CGX171SCF which is very similar but with a cutaway and electronics. Nice axe, but unfortunately, IMHO, they made an error in the current chinese factory product. Its beautiful but the nut width is 1 7/8 rather than the full 2 inches. (neither a classical or a flamenco!) Some like that, but I prefer the wider nut. The models made before the new Chinese factory in Jan 07 were from Taiwan and were well made & had the wider nut.
The new CGX171SCF models are around $600. I might just pick up the CG171SF and put in a Baggs Element voiced for nylon.
Graham Sergeant Says:
January 20th, 2009 at 4:45 am
I have played a classical guitar for a number of years – (after a style!) – and wanted to try playing flamenco without committing myself to between £1000-£2000 for a reasonable Spanish instrument. After having read a number of very positive reviews about the CG171SF Yamaha, I decided to buy one. I bought mine from Thomann who apart from a 30-day trial/return period also offer a good guarantee and inclusive shipping!! Thomann’s service is excellent and the guitar arrived in perfect order (from Germany) As suggested I fitted a set of reasonable quality Hannabach flamenco strings (Medium Tension). The guitar is beautifully made and produces an excellent authentic flamenco sound. In my view it is fantastic value at around £350.
Craig Says:
January 29th, 2009 at 7:37 pm
I have played steel-string acoustic guitars off and on for many years, and am now considering a nylon-string guitar. But the action on the “classical” guitars I’ve tried seems so high and difficult to get used to. Would any of you recommend a “flamenco” guitar like the Yamaha CG-171-SF for someone like me, or is it only suited for playing highly percussive flamenco-style music? I am hoping to learn to play chord-and-melody songs that are suited to nylon instruments so well. The sound quality is of course important to an extent, but my primary concern is the neck/action. Thanks for any help/advice!
Graham Sergeant Says:
February 1st, 2009 at 11:13 am
Craig,

I think that the Yamaha CG-171-SF would meet your requirements. It has a low action and good playability and sound both for flamenco and classical/modern music. It is recommended that you fit a set of decent quality dedicated flamenco strings – you’ll need to experiment to find what suits you. I’ve had my guitar now for only a fortnight – but I can’t put it down. For the price of around £350 it is fantastic value!
Craig Says:
February 6th, 2009 at 11:10 pm
Thanks for the feedback, Graham! I appreciate it — and will be shopping for a CG-171-SF soon.
Zebo Says:
March 3rd, 2009 at 11:52 pm
Can anyone compare the Yamaha CG171SF and Rodriguez C1 based on their personal experience? I am torn between the two. Thanks.
Toronto Says:
April 6th, 2009 at 8:57 am
I tried this Yamaha out about a few weeks ago and I was pretty impressed by the sound quality/price ratio.

For anyone who doesnt have much experience with flamenco and wants to just get a feel of this type of andalusian music, this Yamaha is a great start and will always encourage you to pick it up and play more.
One’s wallet will be happy as well.

Of course, it won’t compare to luthier made guitars with aged wood ($3K +). But until one gets to that level, this Yamaha is just great!
FlamencoMaster Says:
November 16th, 2009 at 9:06 pm
I’ve been playing flamenco for a long time and I can honestly say this guitar is real value for money. I highly recommended for anyone entertaining the idea of learning flamenco guitar.

I picked it up in the shop and gave them a blast of buleria, the shop attendant came wondering over, i stopped…. he said no no keep playing lmao.

I think I sold it for him lol :))
Ragu Says:
April 30th, 2010 at 2:32 pm
Guitar Center has this new 15% off , trade up sale going on in May so I took my old Yamaha Fg700S classic and played with the CG171SF ($300), and the Manuel Rodriguez C3 ($500), expecting the Rodriguez to sound slightly better – NOT. Try both right in the store and compare, the
CG171SF has this classic flamenco sound to it. You can play right along with the $1000 spanish flamenco guitars and the CG sounds right up there.
The Rodriguez C3 has great keys though, unlike the CG but if your looking for sound quality the CG has it.
Its best to show up with one of your flamenco buds, this way you can play both together and contrast and compare, even the salesman got into the comparison bit.
Robert Says:
May 15th, 2010 at 8:18 pm
Does anyone have an opinion about the difference between the Yamaha Flamenco and the Cordoba F7 or the Cordoba C7?

I am a beginner, I have been studying classical guitar for 6 months, and I will study Flamenco in Spain this summer. I like the sound and the playability of the Cordoba C7 with the spruce top and Rosewood back and sides – I know it is a classical, but it sounded better to me than the Yamaha. The Cordoba C7 still has a pretty low action, but without any fret buzzing, which the Yamaha had a lot of.

Opinions?

Thanks.
Omaima Al Najjar Says:
June 17th, 2010 at 12:55 am
I use to use a samick classical guitar, I am now considering turning into flamenco style .. and I want to start with a agood guitar so i would learn easly, especially that i am learning at home!
this guitar cost arund 550 American dollar now .. which is a good price compared with other good guitars!

I can’t wait to get mine, I live in saudi .. so I’ll ask friend who is studying there coming back to Saudi this summer to bring it with him! :D
I am sooo excited and happy!
a review of the guitar sound on youtube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CW9VizZbSTs
Samuel Lawson Says:
December 3rd, 2010 at 8:22 am
I completely agree with the assessment of the cg171sf – the absolute best flamenco guitar you can get for under $1000. It’s got the req’d ‘punch’ on every note that makes it equally a percussion instrument and gorgeous melody maker. My concert classical cost 10x what this one is, and thought the application is different, I would have no qualms whipping this Yamaha out in a mixed programme after playing my Hill.

BTW, do not ever ever ever put steel strings on a classical guitar unless you plan on using it for firewood later. Having said that, my dad bought a 1975(+/-) cg100 (I actually am not sure about the model, but think this is it) for my older brother back in 1989. He fiddled around with it for a year, and I picked it up and started learning about classical guitar – and that you never ever put steel strings on it… this instrument had steel on it for years. I replaces them with some D’Addario nylons strings, and it was fine. It’s still not a good idea, but that old Yamaha is a tank! (still have it)
Andrea Logan Says:
April 23rd, 2011 at 7:22 am
@Samuel
Thanks for the tips on not putting steel strings on a classical guitar.
Almost came to a sticky end there.

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