FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Strings
What is the most suitable string action or height for my guitar?
String height is one of the guitar settings that raises the most questions, as it directly affects the player's comfort. The height has been thoroughly tested on each Alhambra guitar to meet parameters that seek a compromise between comfort and guitar performance, and which are based on user experience and feedback.
Thus we find different heights in the Alhambra guitars depending on whether they are classical, classical concert, flamenco, cut-away, etc. The classical concert models, 8P , 9P , 10P and 11P
These guitars are usually owned by players of a certain level, and therefore a height is used that allows them to obtain the maximum performance from the instrument without it being uncomfortable for them to play. Their experience allows them to play harder for longer. The rule is that the higher the height, the stronger the sound obtained and the lower the height, the greater the comfort (since the force that the finger must exert to press the string is less).
However, it is worth remembering that the strings cannot be lowered as much as one wants and that there is a limit defined by the appearance of "lisping" problems. The classical Alhambra beginner and student guitars have a lower height than the classical Alhambra concert guitars, seeking a compromise, as previously mentioned, between performance and comfort more in line with the profile of the guitarist who purchases these models.
On the other hand, it is worth mentioning the height of the strings on flamenco guitars, which is much lower than on classical models. On flamenco models, this low height is achieved by a certain angle on the neck, so it is not just a matter of adjusting the height of the saddles.
Furthermore, it must be kept in mind that flamenco players have a very different technique to classical players, so the appearance of fretting or lisping is not a problem for them. (A player with classical technique will always have problems with lisping or fretting with an authentic flamenco guitar).
What strings does my Alhambra guitar have?
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CLASSICAL AND FLAMENCO GUITARS
We use Extra High Tension type strings, usually working with: D'Addario (XTC 44 Extra Hard Tension)
However, this does not necessarily mean that you should use the Extra High type from these or any other string manufacturer. You can also use High or Normal tension. It all depends on how you feel the guitar and the performance you get from each type of string. This is because each player has a type of touch.
As for flamenco guitars, and although we also use this type of string, there are string brands that have specific models for flamenco guitars and even people who use the strings from one brand and the bass strings from another. You can find out the specific brand of strings that your Alhambra guitar has at the time of purchase thanks to a small label that hangs from the headstock, along with the warranty and recommendations for correct use and maintenance.
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ACOUSTIC GUITARS
We currently use D'Addario Phosphor Bronze EJ-16 in gauge 0.12 - 0.53. We recommend keeping this measurement since some misalignments have been observed when some customers have changed the original diameter, especially when they have moved to smaller gauges. As with classical guitars, a label hanging from the headstock will allow you to know the brand of strings on your guitar.
Guitar Classification
· Classical Guitars
Study Line (1C, 2C , 3C and Iberia Ziricote )
The 1 C, 2 C, 3 C and Iberia Ziricote models mark the beginning of our range of Spanish classical guitars. These models stand out for their unquestionable professionalism in their workmanship and an excellent quality-price ratio that will satisfy those who want to begin their guitar studies.
Conservatory Line ( 4P , 5P , 6P, 7 C Classic , 7 P Classic and 7 PA )
Mid-range guitars, very suitable for those who want to continue their guitar studies. A good selection of materials and special care in the treatment of each of their parts, make these guitars excellent "accomplices" for the advanced student who needs a good instrument with which to develop his technique and musicality.
Concert Line ( 8 P , 9 P , 10 P and 11P )
The excellent selection of solid woods and materials used, together with a completely handcrafted construction, make these guitars the ideal instruments for the most advanced students. Comfort, power and beautiful sound together with a rich variety of nuances, are some of the privileged characteristics that can be found in them.
- Flamenco Guitars
Flamenco Line Studio ( 2 F and 3 F )
The best workmanship and quality-price ratio available to those who want to start studying flamenco guitar. Guitarists will be able to start learning and developing the different flamenco styles and styles with an instrument that will provide them with good sound and confidence in their performance.
Flamenco Line Conservatory ( 4 F , 5 Fp , 7 Fc , and 8 Fc )
The flamenco touch will be happily supported by this series of guitars made to satisfy the demands of the expert in flamenco technique. Each of its parts, the wide variety of different characteristics, string heights and ultimately: all the manufacturing criteria, are put at the service of the advanced player who needs a good instrument with which to express himself in all his magnitude.
Flamenco concert ( 10 Fc and 10 Fp )
Any guitarist who tries one of these guitars will immediately notice their excellent workmanship. The completely handcrafted work, the study and the research that Manufacturas Alhambra, SL has carried out over many years are reflected in these magnificent instruments that will delight even the most demanding player.
- Cut Away Guitars
Cut away line ( 3 C CW , 3 C CT , 3 F CW , 3 F CT , 5 P CW , 5 P CT , 6 P CW, 7 Fc CW , 7 Fc CT , 7 PA CW and 9 P CW ).
Mainly aimed at live performance, it stands out for its accessibility to the highest frets and its comfort due to its narrower neck. Manufacturas Alhambra SL offers a wide range of cut-away models covering all the lines in the range. All models have an electrified version and meet the expectations of both beginners and professionals.
- Crossover Guitars
Crossover Line ( CS-LR CW , CS-1 CW , CS-3 CW )
The Crossover line encompasses a series of instruments that fuse characteristics of classical and acoustic guitars.
Its classical guitar body with a comfortable cutaway and a narrower neck similar to the design of acoustic guitars, gives them great versatility when it comes to approaching different styles. This new guitar concept is presented in nylon strings and incorporates a truss rod. This guitar has a rounded fingerboard that allows the guitarist to feel like he is playing a guitar with steel strings, while sounding like a classical guitar. These guitars with a different look and sound offer the best of both worlds.
Initiation
What model of guitar do you recommend for beginners?
Within our range we recommend going up to model 3C at the latest. You would therefore have 3 models to choose from: model 1C, model 2C and model 3C .
Optionally and depending on your budget you could also consider the Iberia guitar.
Any of these models will allow you to start with the guarantee of having a quality instrument, without any tuning problems, and that will allow you to progress in the knowledge of the technique of this instrument and even take the first courses at the music conservatory without needing a higher model.
Whether you choose Alhambra or not, you should make sure that the guitar has a solid top, preferably made of Canadian Red Cedar or German Spruce, which entails a certain sound quality (as long as the rest of the instrument has a minimum build quality).
At this point we would like to emphasize the fact that instruments that do not guarantee a clean sound and ease of execution can demotivate you in your learning process.
If you are looking for a guitar for a child or someone with small hands, you may want to consider the special sizes (available in 1C and 3C models). The Señorita version with a 636 mm scale may be particularly interesting, as the shorter and narrower neck makes playing much easier.
To start practicing flamenco on the guitar 2 F
When was my guitar built?
We appreciate the trust shown in the purchase of your Alhambra Instrument. Alhambra has registered the construction date of all its models through a file containing the serial or construction numbers.
Since the end of 1998, this data has been automatically stored by a computer program when printing the label. Since the end of 1998, the serial number has consisted of 8 digits (7 when it starts with 0). This number, together with the article code (identification of the guitar model), allows us to know the history of its construction and its materials.
From 1987 to the end of 1998, Alhambra has a registry that shows the month and year of manufacture by model and code, which also allows us to know the date of its construction.
As of 2012, guitars have an alphanumeric serial number located on the bottom right of the interior label.
For guitars made before 1987 we would need images of the label, top (marquetry), back and head of the guitar in order to identify any Alhambra guitar model from these dates, as well as its materials, since it would be equivalent to the current model. Send us the serial or construction number, or images if applicable, to this form and you will hear from us shortly.
Other topics
12 REASONS TO CHOOSE AN ALHAMBRA GUITAR
Spanish construction in Spain, Alhambra workshops.
More than 50 years of experience, with continuous investment in R&D.
World leader in nylon string guitars.
Global network of 3,000 points of sale in more than 70 countries.
- >Full range: classical, flamenco, acoustic, semi-acoustic and traditional from Studio to Professional.
Construction system with “Spanish heel”.
Fine woods selected at source. Solid tops.
Active commitment to the Environment.
Original Alhambra bracing.
Guitars with 3 years warranty.
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Social commitment. Commitment to culture and support for young guitarists. CIGA. Alhambra International Guitar Competition.
- Accessories from major brands.
Where can I buy an Alhambra guitar?
Manufacturas Alhambra, SL recommends purchasing its guitars from establishments dedicated exclusively to the sale of musical instruments.
A new guitar may require minor adjustments to suit each user. Buying the guitar from a specialist who is familiar with this type of operation can be a great help.
In the event of a hypothetical need for a more in-depth review that requires our intervention, it will be essential that the instrument be returned through the point of sale where it was purchased.
On this website you will find a list of distributors and points of sale . If you contact our distributors, they will be able to provide you with the nearest establishment to your home.
What are the differences between a classical guitar and a flamenco guitar?
Classical and flamenco guitars
They are different instruments, with different construction specifications and materials to achieve a different type of sound. The main differences are:
>Different arrangement of the harmonic bars inside the guitar. (Front of the top).
Hoop size: They tend to be narrower on flamenco dancers.
String action: It is much lower on the flamenco guitar. It is not just a question of lowering the saddles, since in a flamenco guitar, when it is built, a different angle is used at the junction of the neck with the sides and the top.
Fretting or Lisping: Normal, within a certain order, for flamenco. Totally undesirable in classical.
Type of wood used: In Flamenco, traditionally solid Spanish cypress is used for the sides and back, and German spruce for the top. In Classical, rosewood is used for the sides and back, and either spruce or cedar for the top, although the latter is much more common.
As for the woods, we cannot fail to mention that in recent years the "Black" flamenco guitars, made with Rosewood sides and back, have become more popular. The fact that there are very well-known players, together with the difficulty (and therefore the increase in price) of obtaining Cypress wood, has contributed to this diffusion of the "Black" flamenco guitars.
These are the main differences from the construction point of view and why, once you have reached a certain level of flamenco playing, the type of guitar you use can be a limitation for further progress. Conversely, someone who tries to play flamenco without having the proper technique will inevitably have problems with lisping. Both the sound and the feel are different.
