Yamaha C40II Classical Guitar

Quick Product Summary

The Yamaha C40II classical guitar is a full-size nylon-string guitar designed to give beginners, students and developing players a dependable introduction to classical guitar without unnecessary complication.

Its traditional classical body is paired with a spruce top, rosewood fingerboard and bridge, 650mm scale length and wide 52mm nut, creating the familiar feel expected from a full-size classical instrument. Nylon strings offer a softer feel under the fingers than steel acoustic strings, while the wider string spacing gives each finger more room when learning chords, scales, arpeggios and fingerstyle technique.

The C40II is intentionally straightforward. There are no electronics, complex controls or decorative features competing for attention — just an accessible full-size Yamaha classical guitar built around the fundamentals a new player actually needs.

At A Glance

Feature	Details
Brand	Yamaha
Model	C40II
Type	Full-size classical guitar
Body Style	Traditional classical
Top	Spruce
Scale Length	650mm / 25 9/16"
Nut Width	52mm
Fingerboard	Rosewood
Strings	Medium-tension nylon
Finish	Gloss body
Main Appeal	Accessible full-size nylon-string guitar
Best For	Beginners, students, lessons and classical guitar study

What's Included?

• Yamaha C40II full-size classical guitar
• ✘ No case included
• ✘ No additional accessories included

Why Choose The Yamaha C40II?

A Proper Full-Size Classical Guitar

The C40II uses a traditional 650mm classical scale length and 52mm nut rather than reducing the dimensions simply because it is aimed at learners. This gives students a genuine classical playing platform that remains relevant as their technique develops.

Nylon Strings For An Approachable Start

Nylon strings generally feel softer beneath the fingertips than steel acoustic strings, which can make the early stages of learning more comfortable. They also produce the warm, rounded response associated with classical and traditional nylon-string guitar.

Wide 52mm Nut

The wider classical nut creates more space between the strings than you would normally find on an electric or steel-string acoustic guitar. That extra room is especially useful when developing independent finger movement and traditional right-hand fingerstyle technique.

Spruce Top

The spruce top gives the C40II a clear, balanced foundation suitable for individual notes, chords and fingerpicked passages. It is a sensible choice for a student instrument that needs to work across lessons, practice and a broad range of beginner repertoire.

Simple Acoustic Design

There are no batteries, pickups or controls to worry about. Pick the guitar up, tune it and play. For a beginner concentrating on posture, fretting, rhythm and technique, that simplicity is a genuine advantage.

Yamaha C40II vs Popular Alternatives

Yamaha C40II vs Yamaha C40MII

The C40MII follows the same fundamental full-size classical format but uses a matt body finish rather than the gloss finish of the C40II.

Choose the C40II if you prefer the more traditional polished appearance. The C40MII makes sense if you specifically prefer a more understated matt aesthetic.

Yamaha C40II vs Yamaha C70

The Yamaha C70 occupies another position within Yamaha's full-size C Series and shares the traditional classical dimensions of the C40II while introducing different cosmetic detailing and hardware.

For a first classical guitar, the C40II keeps the proposition simple and accessible. The C70 is worth considering if you want to explore another Yamaha C Series option before choosing.

Yamaha C40II vs Yamaha CS40II

The CS40II is Yamaha's 3/4-size classical option, making it better suited to younger players or musicians who specifically need a more compact instrument.

The C40II is the stronger choice for adults, older students and players who are comfortable using standard full-size classical dimensions.

Yamaha C40II vs Yamaha CX40

The CX40 takes the basic Yamaha classical concept and adds Yamaha SYSTEM50 electronics with volume and tone controls plus a line output.

Choose the CX40 if you know you need to connect directly to amplification. If lessons, home practice and traditional acoustic playing are the priority, the simpler C40II avoids paying for electronics you may never use.

Who Is The Yamaha C40II For?

The Yamaha C40II is especially well suited to:

• Adults learning classical guitar
• Teenagers ready for a full-size instrument
• School and private music students
• Players taking classical guitar lessons
• Beginners interested in fingerstyle playing
• Musicians wanting an affordable nylon-string guitar alongside an electric or steel-string acoustic
• Songwriters looking for the softer character of nylon strings
• Players who prefer a wider fingerboard and traditional classical feel

For very young learners, a smaller 1/2- or 3/4-size classical guitar may be more comfortable. For most adult beginners, however, a full-size model such as the C40II provides the standard dimensions they can continue using as their playing improves.

Suitable Styles And Uses

The C40II is naturally at home with classical repertoire, traditional guitar studies, fingerstyle practice, arpeggios and graded lesson material, but it does not have to be limited to formal classical music.

Nylon-string guitars also work beautifully for softer pop arrangements, folk-inspired playing, songwriting, Latin-influenced material and relaxed fingerpicked accompaniment.

It can also be a useful second guitar for an electric or steel-string player. The wider neck and different string response encourage a different playing approach and can make the C40II an interesting instrument for developing finger independence and right-hand technique.

Nylon-String vs Steel-String Guitar: Which Is Better For A Beginner?

A nylon-string classical guitar such as the Yamaha C40II uses softer-feeling strings and a wider, flatter fingerboard. That makes it particularly suitable for classical tuition, fingerstyle development and players who want more room between each string.

A steel-string acoustic guitar normally has a narrower neck and brighter, more projecting character that suits strummed pop, rock, country and singer-songwriter styles. Neither is automatically better for every beginner. If your lessons or musical interests centre on classical technique, fingerstyle or nylon-string tone, the C40II is the natural choice.

Looking for advice on choosing the right classical guitar, guitar size or beginner setup? Our experienced team of musicians can help by phone, online or in-store.

Story & Context

Yamaha's involvement with classical guitars stretches back to the 1960s. During that period, the company developed its classical guitar knowledge with input from the Spanish guitar-making tradition before introducing its first classical guitar series in 1967.

That history went on to include professional and concert-level instruments, but Yamaha has also consistently applied its guitar-building experience to instruments aimed at students and developing players.

The C Series sits at the accessible end of that philosophy. The C40II is designed not as a miniature or novelty classical guitar, but as a straightforward full-size instrument that gives new players the dimensions and basic construction associated with the classical format.

That is an important part of its long-standing appeal: rather than overwhelming a beginner with features, the C40II concentrates on giving them a practical instrument on which to learn the fundamentals properly.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Body Shape	Classical Guitar Style
Scale Length	650mm / 25 9/16"
Body Length	490mm / 19 5/16"
Total Length	995mm / 39 3/16"
Body Width	370mm / 14 9/16"
Body Depth	94–100mm / 3 11/16"–3 15/16"
Nut Width	52mm / 2 1/16"
String Spacing	11.8mm
Top Material	Spruce
Back Material	Locally sourced tonewood
Side Material	Locally sourced tonewood
Neck Material	Locally sourced tonewood
Fingerboard	Rosewood
Fingerboard Radius	Flat
Bridge	Rosewood
Nut Material	Urea
Saddle Material	Urea
Tuners	Chrome RM-1252X
Soundhole Inlay	Decal
Pickguard	None
Body Finish	Gloss
Neck Finish	Matt
Electronics	None
Strings	Medium tension

Specification Note

Yamaha uses various locally sourced tonewoods for the C40II's back, sides and neck according to material availability as part of its approach to reducing waste and supporting sustainable procurement. For that reason, a specific species has not been substituted or guessed in this listing.

Power Requirements

The Yamaha C40II is a fully acoustic classical guitar and requires no batteries or external power.

It does not contain an onboard pickup or output connection. If amplified performance is important, consider a purpose-built electro-classical model such as the Yamaha CX40 or a suitable external classical-guitar pickup system.

Compatibility & Recommended Pairings

Classical Guitar Gig Bag

A properly fitting full-size classical guitar gig bag is strongly recommended for lessons, travelling and general protection.

Clip-On Tuner

A simple chromatic clip-on tuner makes regular tuning quick and easy without needing any electronics built into the instrument.

Classical Guitar Footstool Or Support

Players learning traditional classical posture may find a footstool or ergonomic guitar support useful for positioning the instrument consistently.

Replacement Nylon Strings

Always choose classical nylon guitar strings, not steel acoustic strings. Different nylon-string tensions are available as your preferences develop.

Music Stand

For lessons, graded pieces and classical study, a stable adjustable music stand is one of the most useful accessories you can add to a beginner setup.

Fair Deal Music Verdict 🎵

★★★★★ 5/5

The Yamaha C40II succeeds by keeping things simple. It gives a beginner proper full-size classical dimensions, nylon strings and a traditional playing layout without introducing unnecessary features or complexity.

It is a particularly sensible starting point for anyone beginning formal classical lessons or wanting to explore fingerstyle guitar on a genuine nylon-string instrument.

Best suited for: Adult beginners, students, classical guitar lessons and players wanting an affordable full-size nylon-string guitar.

Customers usually upgrade from: Smaller student instruments, very basic beginner guitars or borrowed classroom instruments.

Most commonly paired with: A padded classical guitar gig bag, clip-on tuner, music stand and spare nylon strings.

Our tip: Make sure a full-size 650mm classical guitar is the correct physical size for the player. Younger children may progress more comfortably on a 3/4-size instrument such as the Yamaha CS40II.

Showroom feedback: The wider 52mm nut is the feature newcomers notice most when comparing a classical guitar with an electric or steel-string acoustic. It can initially feel different, but that extra string spacing is exactly what makes traditional classical and fingerstyle techniques easier to develop cleanly.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you're choosing one of the UK's most established, independent family run music retailers since 1987.

Our Birmingham showroom gives you access to a knowledgeable musician-led team who understand guitars, accessories and complete beginner setups. Whether you're choosing a first instrument for yourself, buying for a student or moving into classical guitar from another style, we're here to help you choose the right instrument and accessories.

When you shop with Fair Deal Music, you can buy with confidence thanks to:

• Expert advice from knowledgeable musicians
• Carefully checked new, used, pre-owned and ex-display equipment
• Competitive prices on leading music brands
• Secure UK-wide delivery
• Friendly support before and after your purchase
• A trusted independent UK music retailer with decades of experience
• A large Birmingham showroom
• Experienced advice on classical guitars, appropriate instrument sizing and beginner setups

Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Thinking about upgrading? Your next piece of gear could cost less than you think.

We're always happy to consider part exchanges and trade-ins on a wide range of musical instruments and equipment. Whether you're looking to upgrade your guitar, keyboard, amplifier, drum kit or studio gear, your existing equipment could help reduce the cost of your next purchase.

Simply get in touch with our team for a no-obligation valuation, and we'll be happy to discuss the options available.

It's an easy way to unlock the value of the gear you no longer use while making your next instrument even more affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Yamaha C40II a good guitar for beginners?

Yes. It is specifically well suited to beginners and developing players who want a traditional full-size nylon-string guitar. Its straightforward design allows the player to concentrate on learning without unnecessary electronics or controls.

Is the Yamaha C40II full size?

Yes. It uses a standard 650mm classical scale length with a 52mm nut, making it a full-size classical guitar.

What is the difference between the Yamaha C40II and C40MII?

The most obvious difference is the finish. The C40II uses a gloss body finish, while the C40MII uses a matt finish. Both follow Yamaha's traditional full-size classical format.

Can I put steel strings on a Yamaha C40II?

No. The C40II is designed for classical nylon strings. Steel guitar strings place substantially different tension on an instrument and should not be fitted to a classical guitar designed for nylon strings.

Does the Yamaha C40II need an amplifier?

No. It is a fully acoustic instrument and produces its sound naturally through the guitar body.

If you specifically need to connect directly to amplification, an electro-classical guitar such as the Yamaha CX40 is a more appropriate option.

Is a classical guitar easier on the fingers than a steel-string acoustic?

Many beginners find nylon strings more comfortable because they feel softer under the fingertips. The wider classical neck does require the fretting hand to stretch differently, however, so the overall playing experience is different rather than simply easier.

Is the C40II suitable for children?

It depends on the size of the child. The C40II is a full-size instrument, so younger or smaller players may be more comfortable with a 3/4-size or 1/2-size classical guitar. Choosing the correct physical size can make learning considerably more comfortable.

Can I learn normal chords and songs on a classical guitar?

Absolutely. Standard guitar chord shapes, scales and musical theory still apply. The C40II can be used for pop songs, folk material and general guitar learning as well as formal classical repertoire.

Is the Yamaha C40II suitable for fingerstyle?

Yes. Its flat fingerboard, wide 52mm nut and nylon strings make it naturally suited to fingerstyle playing and traditional classical right-hand technique.

How often should nylon strings be changed?

There is no fixed schedule because it depends on how frequently the guitar is played. Strings should be replaced when they become difficult to tune accurately, sound noticeably dull, show visible wear or no longer provide the response you want.