TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar Review: A Modern Crossover Choice for Every Player

We’ve all been there—standing in a music shop or scrolling through endless listings, looking for that one instrument that bridges the gap between traditional warmth and modern playability. For many of us, the traditional classical guitar feels a bit too bulky, and the wide 52mm nut can feel like trying to play a fence post. I personally spent years looking for a nylon-string guitar that didn’t feel like a chore to play during long sets. The struggle is real: you want the soul of a Spanish guitar but the comfort of an electric. If you don’t find that balance, your new instrument ends up gathering dust in a corner. That is why we decided to put the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar through its paces. Solving the “playability gap” is crucial for students and stage performers alike, as a guitar that fights back usually wins by staying in its gig bag.

Choosing Your Path: What to Consider Before Buying Classical & Nylon-String Guitars

A Classical & Nylon-String Guitars is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for musicians who crave a softer touch, a warmer harmonic profile, and a unique percussive quality that steel strings simply cannot replicate. Whether you are delving into Bossanova, Flamenco, or Folk, the nylon-string provides a platform for expression that is intimately connected to the player’s fingertips. Before you see its full feature set and user reviews, it is essential to understand the fundamental problems these guitars solve: they reduce finger fatigue and provide a distinct “mellow” tone that sits perfectly in a mix or a quiet room.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the physical limitations of steel strings or a player looking for a “crossover” experience—someone who wants the nylon sound but prefers a narrower neck and a cutaway for upper-fret access. It’s perfect for the gigging songwriter or the student. However, it might not be suitable for those who are purists looking for a traditional, deep-bodied Spanish concert guitar for unamplified auditorium performances, as the thin body design prioritizes comfort and amplified use over raw acoustic volume. In those cases, a traditional non-cutaway might be better.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Body Depth: The thickness of the guitar body dictates how it sits against your ribs. A thin-body design, like that of the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar, is much easier to hold for long periods, especially for smaller-framed players or electric guitarists. It reduces the “reach over” strain significantly.
• Nut Width and String Spacing: Traditional classicals have a 52mm nut. Many modern players prefer a 48mm (1 7/8 inch) nut, which allows for easier chord reaches and faster transitions. This is a “make or break” spec for those moving from steel-string acoustic or electric backgrounds.
• Tonewood Selection: Look for a combination of Spruce and Mahogany. Spruce provides the “snap” and clarity on the top end, while Mahogany provides the warmth and sustain in the mids. The quality of these woods determines how the guitar will “open up” over years of playing.
• Electronics and Onboard Tools: If you plan to play live, a built-in preamp is non-negotiable. Look for multi-band EQ and an integrated tuner. A built-in tuner isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity for nylon strings, which tend to be more sensitive to temperature and humidity changes than steel.

Understanding these nuances will ensure you don’t end up with an instrument that feels foreign to your hands. Transitioning to the right gear can transform your practice sessions from a struggle into a joy.

While the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions and Key Features: Unboxing the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar

When the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar arrived, the first thing we noticed was the meticulous packaging. It’s clear that the manufacturer understands the fragility of tonewoods. Upon pulling it out of the included gig bag, the beige natural spruce top immediately caught the light. It has a clean, professional aesthetic that punches well above its price bracket. The “thin body” design is the standout physical feature; it feels sleek and manageable, similar to an electric guitar but with the resonance of a hollow body. You can check the latest price and availability here to see why it’s gaining traction among budget-conscious professionals.

Compared to previous entry-level models we’ve tested, the Laurel fingerboard felt surprisingly smooth under the fingers. The Okoume neck has a satin-like finish that prevents your hand from sticking during sweaty practice sessions. The cutaway is deep enough to reach the 15th fret comfortably, which is a rare treat on a classical-style instrument. We were also impressed by the weight—or lack thereof. It’s an incredibly light instrument that doesn’t sacrifice structural integrity, making it a prime candidate for travel or long rehearsals.

A Deep Dive into the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar’s Performance

Testing a guitar isn’t just about playing a few chords; it’s about understanding how it responds to different dynamics, how the hardware holds up under stress, and how the electronics translate the natural wood sound. We spent over 20 hours with the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar, running it through various amplifiers and playing it both fingerstyle and with a plectrum.

Unparalleled Playability: The “Crossover” Advantage

The most striking aspect of the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar is its ergonomics. If you have ever felt intimidated by the “wide-neck” feel of a traditional classical guitar, this instrument will be a revelation. The 48mm nut width is what we call the “Goldilocks zone”—not too narrow like an electric, but not so wide that it strains the thumb. I found that I could execute barre chords much more cleanly on this laurel fingerboard than on a standard 52mm board. We found that the Okoume neck profile is a slim-C shape, which is incredibly forgiving for beginners.

The thin body design also plays a massive role here. Often, full-size acoustics can feel like you’re hugging a barrel. The TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar sits tucked under the arm, allowing for a more natural picking hand angle. This is a feature that really sets it apart from the bulky, traditional alternatives. During our testing, we noticed that the string height (action) was a bit high upon arrival, but thanks to the dual-action truss rod—a feature often missing on cheap classicals—we were able to dial it in to a much lower, faster setting within minutes. This adjustability is a huge win for the long-term life of the guitar.

Tonal Character: Bright Spruce Meets Warm Mahogany

Acoustically, the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar offers a very “direct” sound. Because the body is thinner, you lose some of the “thumpy” low-end bass that you’d get from a deep-bodied dreadnought, but you gain an incredible amount of clarity and midrange punch. The Spruce top provides a bright “ping” to the notes, which makes melodic lines stand out. We found the Mahogany back and sides do a wonderful job of filling out the lower-mids, preventing the guitar from sounding “tinny.”

When playing complex jazz chords, every note in the cluster was audible. We confirmed through our testing that the sustain is surprisingly good for a nylon instrument, likely due to the Laurel bridge and fixed system which transfers vibration efficiently to the top. While one user mentioned some “annoying sounds” on the A and D bass strings, we found that a quick adjustment of the bridge saddle and the truss rod eliminated any buzzing. It is important to remember that all wooden instruments are subject to movement during shipping, and the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar provides all the tools needed to correct these minor issues. You can check the latest technical specs to see how the wood choices influence its unique sonic footprint.

Electronic Versatility: The 4-Band Preamp Experience

Where the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar truly shines for the modern performer is in its electronics. The 4-band EQ (Bass, Middle, Treble, and Presence) allows for a massive amount of tone shaping. When we plugged it into a standard 1/4 inch jack, the signal was clean and strong. By rolling back the Treble and boosting the Mids, we were able to get a very convincing, traditional classical sound even through a standard PA system. The “Presence” slider is particularly useful for adding that “air” and sparkle to the nylon strings when playing in a large room.

The built-in tuner is a lifesaver. Nylon strings are notoriously finicky with tuning stability during the first few days of use (the “stretching” phase). Having a bright, easy-to-read tuner right on the side of the guitar means you aren’t fumbling for a clip-on tuner in the middle of a set. We found the pickup configuration to be well-balanced, capturing the “thump” of the thumb on the lower strings without becoming muddy. For anyone looking to record directly into an interface or play live, this guitar offers a level of convenience that purely acoustic models simply cannot match.

Durability and Craftsmanship: Built to Last

For an instrument in this price range, the craftsmanship of the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar is highly impressive. The binding is clean, the frets are well-dressed without sharp edges (a common flaw in budget guitars), and the finish is even throughout. The choice of Laurel for the fingerboard is a sustainable and durable alternative to Rosewood, offering a similar feel and tonal response. We were particularly pleased with the “Okoume” neck. Okoume is often used in higher-end builds for its stability and lightweight nature, and it feels very solid here.

Maintenance is straightforward. Because the guitar has a fixed bridge system and a standard nut, changing strings is no different than any other classical guitar. The 30-day “no reason to return” policy mentioned in the specs adds a layer of confidence for the buyer. We feel that this guitar is built to survive the rigors of a student’s daily practice or the occasional weekend gig. To see how the materials hold up in different environments, see its full material breakdown and warranty details.

What Other Users Are Saying

The general consensus among those who have spent time with the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar is one of pleasant surprise. Most users are “thoroughly impressed” with the build quality, especially given the affordable price point. One user noted that the packaging was “top notch,” which is vital for an instrument made of wood. Another player highlighted that while the action was high initially, it was “easily fixed” thanks to the included truss rod, resulting in an instrument they liked “a lot” for its sound and comfort.

However, it’s important to be realistic. One user did mention an “unacceptable” buzzing on the bass strings. While our test unit didn’t have this issue after a setup, it highlights the importance of being comfortable with basic guitar adjustments or taking it to a local shop for a quick “pro setup.” Most users seem to agree that for the money, you are getting an instrument that “sounds lovely” and serves as a reliable workhorse for various musical styles. This balanced feedback suggests that while the quality control is generally high, being prepared for a minor setup will ensure you get the best experience possible.

How the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar Compares to the Competition

In the world of nylon-string guitars, there are several paths you could take. Let’s see how our main subject stacks up against three very different alternatives available on the market today.

1. Yamaha SLG200S Silent Steel-String Guitar

The Yamaha SLG200S is a completely different beast, designed for near-silent practice and high-end performance. Unlike the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar, this model has no hollow body at all, relying entirely on its electronics to produce sound. It’s a “steel-string” model, so it won’t give you that soft nylon feel. We would recommend this for the professional traveler who needs to practice in hotel rooms without disturbing anyone, but for those seeking a true acoustic-electric hybrid with a traditional feel, the TARIO is much more “guitar-like” and significantly more affordable.

2. Cordoba C5 CD Classical Nylon-String Guitar

The Cordoba C5 is widely considered the gold standard for entry-level classical guitars. It features a solid Canadian Cedar top, which offers a warmer, more traditional “Spanish” tone than the Spruce-topped TARIO. However, the C5 usually lacks a cutaway and a preamp (unless you move up to the CE model, which is much pricier). If you are a classical purist who wants the deepest acoustic resonance possible, the Cordoba is the winner. But if you need to plug in and want the comfort of a thin body and cutaway, the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar offers more versatility for the modern player.

3. Master Play 30″ Classical Guitar with Case (Pink)

This is a 30-inch guitar specifically designed for children and total beginners. Compared to the full-size 39-inch TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar, it is much smaller and simpler. It lacks a preamp, a cutaway, and the sophisticated tonewoods of the TARIO. We recommend this strictly for parents looking for a “toy-plus” level instrument for a young child to see if they are interested in music. For any adult or serious student, the TARIO is a far superior instrument that you won’t outgrow in six months.

The Final Verdict: Is the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar Right for You?

After our extensive hands-on testing and analysis of the market, we can confidently say that the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar is one of the best value-for-money “crossover” guitars available today. It successfully balances the warmth of nylon strings with the sleek, comfortable feel of a modern acoustic-electric. While it may require a minor tweak to the action out of the box, the inclusion of a dual-action truss rod and a robust 4-band preamp makes it a versatile tool for students, songwriters, and weekend performers. Its thin-body design is a game-changer for anyone who finds traditional classical guitars cumbersome.

If you are looking for an instrument that is easy on the fingers, easy on the back, and sounds great through an amp, this is a fantastic investment. Whether you’re playing at home, in the classroom, or on a small stage, it delivers where it counts. Don’t let a bulky guitar hold back your progress. We highly recommend you head over and grab the TARIO 39 Inch Cutaway Classical Guitar today to start your journey into the world of modern nylon-string performance!