Are Estaban guitars good, and what is difference between steel and nylon strings?

Question

I have seen the Estaban guitar commercials. Are the guitars worth it? And what is the benefit of steel vs nylon strings? Easier to play?

Answer 1

They sound great BUT one of my students bought one and oh boy was it a bummer to play, I thought maybe it was the gauge of the strings and I told her I'd call the music store and see, well the guy who owned the store said, "don't tell me, it's an Estaban, " and I said yes, why, and he told me everyone who bought one said the same thing it felt imposable to play, he did say he could fix it, he said most of them had problems with the bridge. I've played between thirty five and forty years and that was the hardest guitar that I ever had in my hands. So when someone asks me if I would recommend that guitar sadly I say no, I can't imagine a beginner trying to play that guitar. It looks beautiful and it is a great package deal, you do get a lot for your money, but if you can't play it what's the use, I haven't heard from anyone yet as to how it sounds after it is fixed. I would love to feel that guitar with different strings, and a different bridge, maybe that would make a world of difference, I've played nylon just about all my life and just recently got an acoustic and it does feel different, but it's was nowhere near as hard to play as the Estaban.

Answer 2

The simplest answer: they sound different. They also feel much different, but the most important thing is the sound right? Neither one is "better" it's a matter of preference. However, nylon string acoustics are often called "classical" guitars (even if they're not) because of the strong association of nylon stringed guitars to classical music. Ignore that Cody guy. He said he couldn't believe somebody said you can't have steel strings on an acoustic, then said that steel strings were for classical. He's an idiot. If you want to play classical guitar music, definitely get a nylon string. If you're not sure, play several of each kind and figure out what you like better. BUT DO NOT try to string a nylon string guitar with steel strings. They are not made to handle the higher tension and you WILL ruin the guitar.

Answer 3

I would look into other guitars, like Martins or Jasmines. Steel strings are the majority of guitars in any type of rock/alternative/jazz music, nylon is for classical or people who have their own little deal worked out, but steel is definitely the safe bet.

Answer 4

Don't waste your money, go to http://www.musiciansfriend.com/guitar
search for a guitar in your price range you'llbe better off!!

Oh, nylon strings are generally,but not universally, for classical guitar.

If you want an acoustic to play popular music, go with steel strings.

Answer 5

They are cheap, mass-produced c r a p. Esteban is a fake. A leather hat and sunglasses don't make you a virtuoso. He's an idiot who is not respected by any real guitarist.