Nylon vs Steel strings

[FONT=Tahoma]I had some lessons on a nylon stringed guitar about 15 years ago. I never got good at playing it. In a move, the guitar went one way and I went another. Now I am working less and would really like to devote the time to learning to play. What is a better starting instrument - nylon or steel stringed guitar? I am not interested in electric. Is one easier to play than the other? I went shopping and really liked the sound of a steel string but don't want to put my money down on the wrong guitar. Thanks for your help. [/FONT]

The strings should have NOTHING to do with your decision on buying a guitar. You could just change them (which you often will anyways). As far as the 2 options go though, I say nylon are easier to learn on. This is only because they are easier on your fingers. It will hurt more to play on steel since your fingers aren't used to it and haven't developed calluses yet.

Sound is all preference. Steal gives you a sharper/brighter tone. Nylon gives you a softer/dull sound (not dull in a bad way, but I can't think of another word to use). You shouldn't be too worried about your sound yet though, since you are just learning.

So I'd say go with nylon right now. Hands down easier for a beginner. Don't be afraid to try steal though. Its just a little harder on your fingers.

Steel strung acoustic guitars and nylon strung classical guitars are quite different instruments. Which to go for depends entirely on what sort of music you want to play... Steel strings will be harder work for your fingers, but you'll get used to it in no time with practice. Callouses don't take long to develop.

Maybe if you didn't get on with the classical guitar you had before a steel strung acoustic is a better idea?

I have to go with Ren on this. If you like the sound of a steel string acoustic then I would recommend going in that direction. A huge part of success in learning has to do with keeping your interest. If you're not crazy with the sound of nylon, you'll grow bored playing it.

Like Ren said, it does not take much time to build up the callouses. Once you have them, they are a badge of honor! :)

In all seriousness, buy the one you enjoy playing and listening too. I think you'll be much happier in the end.

One problem that I had in the past was the ability or rather the inability to tune the nylon string guitar. Another was I had a teacher who insisted on the guitar being held in a classical style. He is a treasure when it comes to playing the guitar but we just didn't mesh. He did make me feel that I wasn't very talented. My life was very busy at that time and I guess that I didn't devote as much time as I should have to practice. All the usual reasons for failure!! I am back for good this time. I am determined to overcome any and all hurdles. I will practice more now that I have more time and find another teacher - one that I do mesh with.

Thanks for all your thoughts. Now is there a good all-wood guitar brand? I am not much on foreign made. I drive an American car. Can I afford an American made guitar? Thanks

I have been looking at a ART & LUTHERIE steel string guitar. Any comments?

thanks

Originally Posted by: m509cI have been looking at a ART & LUTHERIE steel string guitar. Any comments?

thanks

They are made by Godin in Canada., they are quality made guitars for the price tag. Godin is best known for their Seagull brand, which is of very high quality and much higher in price.

Steel !!!!!