
Yamaha
Yamaha CGS103AII Student Series - Classical Guitar - Natural
★★★★★
Yamaha's 3/4-size classical guitar gives young and smaller-framed students a properly scaled instrument with a spruce top and nylon strings.
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Overview
Key Features
Spruce Top
Meranti Back & Sides
Rosewood Fingerboard & Bridge
Natural Finish
Specifications
Top
Spruce
Back & Sides
Meranti
Neck
Nato
Fingerboard
Rosewood
Bridge
Rosewood
Strings
Nylon
Size
3/4
Finish
Natural
Brand
Yamaha
Model
CGS103AII
Pros & Cons
👍 Pros
- 3/4 scale length is properly proportioned for younger and smaller-framed beginners
- Spruce top delivers bright, responsive tone that rewards developing technique
- Nylon strings are easier on untrained fingertips compared to steel-string guitars
- Rosewood fingerboard and bridge provide a smooth playing surface and reliable intonation
- Yamaha's consistent quality control means reliable tuning stability and build quality at the student price point
👎 Cons
- 3/4 size will be outgrown as the student matures physically, requiring an eventual upgrade to full-size
- No case or gig bag included in the purchase
- Meranti back and sides produce a less resonant tone compared to rosewood or mahogany found on higher-end models
- Limited projection and volume compared to full-size classical guitars
Frequently Asked Questions
What age range or player size is the 3/4-size CGS103AII designed for?
The 3/4 scale is typically recommended for children ages 8–11 or smaller-framed players who find a full-size classical guitar uncomfortable to hold and fret.
Does the CGS103AII come with steel or nylon strings?
It comes strung with nylon strings, which are standard for classical guitars and are gentler on beginner fingertips than steel strings.
What type of wood is used for the top of this guitar?
The top is solid spruce, which is a traditional tonewood valued for its bright, responsive sound and good projection — an important quality feature even in a student-level instrument.
Can the CGS103AII be used with a guitar pick?
While classical guitars are traditionally played fingerstyle, you can use a pick. However, nylon strings respond differently to picks than steel strings, producing a softer, rounder attack.
Is a case or gig bag included with the CGS103AII?
No, a case or gig bag is not included and should be purchased separately to protect the guitar during storage and transport.