Aquila 7/8 Size Classical Guitar Review Exploring Cedar Top and Nylon Strings Performance

Description

Ease of Use

Having spent several weeks with the Aquila 99-751-0270, I can confidently say this 7/8 size classical acoustic nylon string guitar is a joy to handle. Its slightly smaller frame and 24.8-inch scale length make it perfect for players like me who prefer a lightweight, comfortable guitar without sacrificing tonal quality. The neck, made from cedar, feels smooth under my fingers and allows effortless chord changes. Plus, the inclusion of a truss rod to adjust string height is a thoughtful touch, especially for someone who likes to tinker and customize their setup. Even my niece, who’s just starting out, found it easier than expected to hold and play.

Ice Quality & Type

Wait, that’s not right for a guitar review! Let’s talk instead about sound quality. The Aquila 99-751-0270 boasts a solid Canadian cedar top paired with mahogany back and sides. This combo produces a warm, rich tone with excellent projection and clarity. The nylon strings (Savarez Cristal Corum High Tension, 500CJ) contribute to a smooth, mellow sound that’s perfect for classical or flamenco styles. I noticed that fingerpicking feels particularly satisfying on this guitar, with notes ringing out clearly without harshness. It really shines in intimate settings, whether solo or with a small ensemble.

Noise Levels

Playing quietly in my apartment late at night was surprisingly easy with this classical guitar. Nylon strings naturally keep the volume mellow compared to steel strings, but the Aquila 7/8 size’s design also helps maintain a balanced sound without overpowering neighbors or family members. On the flip side, strumming aggressively can cause some buzzing if the string height isn’t adjusted properly, but that’s something easily fixed thanks to the built-in truss rod. Overall, the quietness during practice sessions was a definite plus for me.

Durability

This instrument feels solidly built, which impressed me given its lightweight nature. The mahogany back and sides provide a sturdy frame that has withstood the occasional bump and travel without any visible scratches or dents. The cedar neck is robust yet comfortable, and the Pau Ferro fretboard withstands regular finger pressure well. Over weeks of daily play, tuning pegs held up without slipping, assuring me that this guitar can be a reliable companion for both beginners and intermediate players. My friend, who’s a gigging musician, even noted that it seemed travel-ready without needing extra care.

Features

The Aquila Dolce 7/8 size classical guitar includes several features that guitarists appreciate. Aside from the solid cedar top and mahogany body, the 50mm nut width is a sweet spot for fingerstyle playing—neither too cramped nor too wide. The Savarez Cristal Corum strings at high tension were pre-installed, offering a balanced feel right out of the box. Adjusting string height with the neck truss rod was straightforward, which is great for those who want to customize action. This model also has the traditional Spanish fan bracing, contributing to its warm tonal character. However, it lacks onboard electronics, so it’s strictly an acoustic experience.

Benefits

• Lightweight and comfortable 7/8 size design, ideal for smaller hands or travel
• Rich, warm sound from solid cedar top and mahogany construction
• Easy string height adjustments via built-in truss rod
• Smooth playability with Pau Ferro fretboard and cedar neck

Warranty

The manufacturer offers a standard warranty, which gives peace of mind if any defects arise. While the exact warranty period wasn’t prominently advertised, I appreciated knowing that Aquila stands behind the 99-751-0270 model. For a guitar in this price range, having at least a one-year warranty is reassuring. I haven’t had to test it personally, but customer feedback suggests the brand is responsive to service requests.

Drawbacks

• Lack of built-in electronics limits use for live amplification or recording without external mics
• The 7/8 size might feel too small for players accustomed to full-size instruments
• High-tension strings could be challenging for absolute beginners who need softer tension
• Slight buzzing can occur if string height isn’t carefully adjusted

Ice Production Speed

Oops, wrong domain again! But speaking figuratively about responsiveness, the guitar’s tuning stability was decent. It took just a couple of minutes to tune after changing strings, and it stayed in tune well during practice sessions. The strings stretch in quickly, which means less waiting time and more playing. This aspect is crucial for me because I often have limited practice windows and want my instrument ready to go fast.

Competitive Options

Compared to other classical guitars in the same category, the Aquila Dolce 7/8 size stands out for its combination of solid cedar top and mahogany back and sides, offering a warmer tone than many laminate guitars. For example, Yamaha’s classical models often use laminate tops and can feel bulkier. Cordoba’s 7/8 size offerings might have a slightly fuller sound but come with a higher price tag and sometimes heavier builds. The Aquila balances quality and playability nicely, though it doesn’t have built-in pickups like some other models from Yamaha or Cordoba. If amplification is a priority, those might be better choices, but for pure acoustic pleasure, this one shines.

Value for Money

Paying for this guitar felt like smart spending considering the quality of materials and sound. It’s priced competitively among classical guitars with solid tops and traditional bracing. While it’s not a pro-level instrument, the craftsmanship and tone quality make it worth the investment for beginners and intermediate players alike. I’ve seen cheaper nylon-string guitars that sound dull or feel flimsy, so the Aquila 99-751-0270 strikes a nice balance between affordability and quality. It’s definitely worth considering if you want a reliable, good-sounding classical guitar without breaking the bank.

Additional information