6 Strings, 2 Styles: Choosing Between Guitalele and Guitar
May 21, 2025
Introduction: Two Instruments, One Big Question
If you’ve ever wondered whether to pick up a guitalele or a nylon string guitar, you’re not alone. These six-string instruments share some similarities, but they’re actually quite different in feel, sound, and purpose. Let’s break it down to help guide your decision.
What Exactly Is a Guitalele?
A guitalele blends the portability of a ukulele with the tuning and playability of a guitar. It’s usually the size of a tenor ukulele, but it includes six nylon strings and is tuned a fourth higher (A-D-G-C-E-A), making it unique among stringed instruments.
How a Nylon String Guitar Compares
On the other hand, a classical nylon string guitar offers fuller resonance and deeper tones thanks to its larger body and standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). Although both instruments use nylon strings, the guitar produces a much bassier, richer sound overall.
Is the Guitalele Just a Guitar with a Capo?
Some say a guitalele is just a guitar with a capo on the fifth fret. Technically, this matches the tuning, but it changes the playability and feel. With the capo, chords shift and fingerboard space shrinks, which can be disorienting to some players.
Choosing by Feel and Function
Because of its small size and lighter body, the guitalele is easier to hold and play, especially for children or travelers. However, the classical guitar offers more volume, depth, and projection. Consider where and how you’ll be using the instrument.
Quick Comparison List
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Guitalele: Tuned A to A, smaller size, more portable
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Guitar with capo (5th fret): Same tuning, but bulkier
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Nylon Guitar: Deeper sound, standard tuning, full-size feel
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Playability: Guitalele is often easier to hold and carry
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Sound: Guitars produce more bass and body resonance
Conclusion: Two Styles for Different Needs
Ultimately, both instruments have their place depending on your needs. If you're after portability and a ukulele-like feel, the guitalele wins. If you want rich tones and a classic playing experience, go with the guitar. Whichever you choose, you’ll be making music with six strings—just in different styles.
See Available Ukuleles at Terry Carter Music Store
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