What type of strings does the Yamaha CGX122M use?

The CGX122M is a classical guitar and uses nylon strings. These strings provide a softer feel and a warmer, more mellow tone compared to the steel strings found on standard acoustic guitars.

Is the top of the CGX122M solid or laminated?

This model features a solid spruce top. Solid tops are preferred in classical guitar construction because they vibrate more freely and produce a richer, more resonant sound than laminated alternatives.

What is the benefit of the walnut fingerboard?

The walnut fingerboard is chosen for its inviting playability and durability. It provides a comfortable surface for the player's fingers, aiding in fretting accuracy and smooth movement during complex passages.

Does the guitar require an external tuner?

No, the CGX122M features an onboard pickup system that includes a built-in digital tuner. This allows the player to check and adjust their tuning directly from the guitar's side-mounted preamp.

Can I plug this guitar into an amplifier?

Yes, as an electro-acoustic model, it comes equipped with an integrated pickup system. You can connect it to a dedicated acoustic amplifier, PA system, or audio interface using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.

What woods are used for the back and sides?

The back and sides of the CGX122M are made from nato wood. Nato is a dense hardwood that provides a sonic profile similar to mahogany, contributing warmth and depth to the guitar's overall voice.

How does this model differ from a standard classical guitar?

Unlike a traditional acoustic classical guitar, the CGX122M includes electronics for amplification. While it maintains the classic body shape and nylon strings, it is specifically designed for modern performing flexibility.

Is this guitar suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is highly suitable for beginners due to the low tension of the nylon strings and the comfortable neck profile. The inclusion of a built-in tuner also makes it easier for new players to maintain the instrument.

What is the typical price for a Yamaha CGX122M?

The typical price for this model is approximately £306. This places it in the intermediate price bracket for electro-acoustic classical guitars, offering a solid-top construction at a competitive point.

What is the finish on this specific model?

The CGX122M Spruce Natural features a matte finish. This provides a natural, understated look and a smooth feel to the touch, which some players prefer over a high-gloss finish.

Does this guitar have a truss rod?

While traditional classical guitars often lack truss rods, modern Yamaha CG series guitars typically include them to allow for neck adjustments. This helps maintain proper action and playability over the life of the instrument.

Is the Yamaha CGX122M a full-sized guitar?

Yes, it is a full-sized (4/4) classical guitar. It offers a standard scale length and body dimensions, distinguishing it from 3/4 size travel models like the Yamaha APXT2.

Gear article

Yamaha CGX122M Classical Electro Acoustic

The Yamaha CGX122M is a full-sized nylon-string classical guitar that integrates traditional acoustic construction with contemporary electronics. It features a solid spruce top and nato back and sides, designed to provide a balance of classical resonance and amplified performance versatility.

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Overview

The Yamaha CGX122M represents an evolution of the traditional CG series, blending the heritage of Spanish guitar design with modern utility. It is an electro-acoustic instrument tailored for players who require the soft, expressive touch of nylon strings alongside the ability to connect to external amplification systems. The 'M' designation typically refers to its matte finish, providing a modern aesthetic compared to traditional high-gloss classical guitars.

Construction and Key Features

The instrument is built around a solid spruce top, which is a hallmark of quality classical guitars, offering better resonance and tonal development over time compared to laminated tops. The back and sides are constructed from nato, a wood often compared to mahogany for its density and durability.

Key physical features include: * Walnut Fingerboard: Designed for comfortable fretting and smooth transitions across the strings. * Modern Neck Profile: Informed by Yamaha's extensive luthier experience to support technical accuracy. * Integrated Electronics: The guitar includes a pre-installed pickup system and a digital tuner, allowing for quick adjustments on stage or in the studio.

Sound Character

The sonic profile of the CGX122M is defined by the combination of its tonewoods. The spruce top provides a bright, reaching resonance and clear projection. This is balanced by the nato back and sides, which add warmth and depth to the lower frequencies. The result is a 'warm deep voice' that maintains clarity for intricate fingerstyle playing. When amplified, the onboard system is designed to enhance these natural characteristics rather than mask them.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Yamaha catalogue, the CGX122M offers a full-scale classical experience compared to the smaller Yamaha APXT2 3/4 models, which are more travel-oriented. While it maintains a traditional silhouette, it occupies a different niche than steel-string electro-acoustics like the Fender Newporter Player or the Sigma DTC-28HE, which offer higher string tension and a different tonal palette. For players seeking premium materials, models like the Taylor Presentation PS14ce exist at a significantly higher tier, whereas the CGX122M focuses on providing a professional-grade entry point for nylon-string performers.

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Frequently asked questions

What type of strings does the Yamaha CGX122M use?: The CGX122M is a classical guitar and uses nylon strings. These strings provide a softer feel and a warmer, more mellow tone compared to the steel strings found on standard acoustic guitars.
Is the top of the CGX122M solid or laminated?: This model features a solid spruce top. Solid tops are preferred in classical guitar construction because they vibrate more freely and produce a richer, more resonant sound than laminated alternatives.
What is the benefit of the walnut fingerboard?: The walnut fingerboard is chosen for its inviting playability and durability. It provides a comfortable surface for the player's fingers, aiding in fretting accuracy and smooth movement during complex passages.
Does the guitar require an external tuner?: No, the CGX122M features an onboard pickup system that includes a built-in digital tuner. This allows the player to check and adjust their tuning directly from the guitar's side-mounted preamp.
Can I plug this guitar into an amplifier?: Yes, as an electro-acoustic model, it comes equipped with an integrated pickup system. You can connect it to a dedicated acoustic amplifier, PA system, or audio interface using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.
What woods are used for the back and sides?: The back and sides of the CGX122M are made from nato wood. Nato is a dense hardwood that provides a sonic profile similar to mahogany, contributing warmth and depth to the guitar's overall voice.
How does this model differ from a standard classical guitar?: Unlike a traditional acoustic classical guitar, the CGX122M includes electronics for amplification. While it maintains the classic body shape and nylon strings, it is specifically designed for modern performing flexibility.
Is this guitar suitable for beginners?: Yes, it is highly suitable for beginners due to the low tension of the nylon strings and the comfortable neck profile. The inclusion of a built-in tuner also makes it easier for new players to maintain the instrument.
What is the typical price for a Yamaha CGX122M?: The typical price for this model is approximately £306. This places it in the intermediate price bracket for electro-acoustic classical guitars, offering a solid-top construction at a competitive point.
What is the finish on this specific model?: The CGX122M Spruce Natural features a matte finish. This provides a natural, understated look and a smooth feel to the touch, which some players prefer over a high-gloss finish.
Does this guitar have a truss rod?: While traditional classical guitars often lack truss rods, modern Yamaha CG series guitars typically include them to allow for neck adjustments. This helps maintain proper action and playability over the life of the instrument.
Is the Yamaha CGX122M a full-sized guitar?: Yes, it is a full-sized (4/4) classical guitar. It offers a standard scale length and body dimensions, distinguishing it from 3/4 size travel models like the Yamaha APXT2.