Why choose a 39-inch classical guitar over other sizes? | KASPAR Guide

Why Choose a 39-Inch Classical Guitar Over Other Sizes?

This article explores the advantages of selecting a 39-inch classical guitar, a popular instrument among guitar professionals. Learn how sizing affects playability, tone, and performance, addressing common pain points such as comfort, projection, and versatility.

Size Matters: 39-Inch Classical Guitar Explained

• Definition:
  • The 39-inch classical guitar refers to the total length from headstock to tailpiece.
  • This size is often categorized as a “full-size” or “standard” instrument in classical guitar circles.
• Optimal Balance:
  • Strikes a balance between playability and rich tonal response.
  • Offers broader fret spacing compared to 36-inch or 38-inch models, beneficial for advanced techniques.

Authoritative Source:

International Guitar Research Archive - (https://www.csun.edu/~igra/)

Professional Playability Advantages

• Comfortable for Most Adults:
  • 39-inch guitars suit the average arm and hand span for adult professionals.
  • Provides better posture and less fatigue in long practice or performance sessions.
• Ideal String Tension:
  • Standard scale length (~650mm for most 39-inch models) maintains optimal string tension, improving tone and projection ((https://www.guitarsalon.com/blog/understanding-classical-guitar-size)).
• Supports Advanced Techniques:
  • Larger body enhances dynamic range, sustain, and facilitates fingerstyle and complex phrasing.

Acoustic and Tonal Benefits

• Superior Sound Projection:
  • Larger soundboard increases volume and tonal complexity compared to smaller guitars.
• Balanced Frequency Response:
  • 39-inch models deliver warmth in the bass registers, clear mids, and sparkling treble—ideal for both solo and ensemble settings.
• Industry Standard for Performers:
  • Preferred by professionals and concertists globally for its consistent tone and resonance.

Authoritative Source:

The Guitar Foundation of America - (https://www.guitarfoundation.org/)

Comparison With Other Popular Sizes

Quick Reference Points

• Versatile for Repertoire:
  • Suitable for classical, flamenco, and other fingerstyle genres.
• Widely Available Accessories:
  • Standard sizing ensures easy compatibility with cases, strings, and capos.
• Resale Value:
  • 39-inch guitars retain their value well, being industry benchmark instruments.

Frequently Searched: Facts and Stats

• Over 70% of professional classical players use 39-inch models (source: Guitar Foundation of America, 2023 member survey).
• The 39-inch full size has remained unchanged as the professional standard since the late 19th century (International Guitar Research Archive).

For more in-depth information or tailored purchasing advice, contact KASPAR’s expert team.