Yamaha CG122MCH Classic - Solid Cedar Top

The Yamaha CG122MCH is a very popular and well-regarded classical acoustic guitar, particularly for students and intermediate players. It's part of Yamaha's CG series, which aims to provide quality craftsmanship and excellent tone at an accessible price point. The "MCH" in the model name indicates its Matte finish and Cedar top.

Here's a detailed breakdown of its key features:

• Body:

  • Body Shape: Traditional full-size classical guitar shape, without a cutaway.

  • Top Wood: Solid Western Red Cedar. This is a significant feature for a guitar in this price range. Solid cedar tops are known for producing a warm, rich, and mellow tone with great responsiveness and projection, and they tend to "open up" and improve in sound over time.

  • Back & Sides Wood: Nato. This tonewood is similar in characteristics to mahogany, offering a balanced and warm sound, and contributes to the guitar's overall resonance.

  • Bracing: Features a new bracing pattern (compared to older CG models) designed by Yamaha to deliver excellent response and rich resonance, and a bridge plate that efficiently transfers string vibration to the top.

  • Finish: Matte finish (Natural). This thin, non-glossy finish allows the wood to resonate more freely, contributing to improved tone and a comfortable feel. It also tends to show fewer fingerprints than a gloss finish.

• Neck & Fingerboard:

  • Neck Material: Nato. It utilizes a 3-ply laminate design for improved durability against neck warp and twisting, offering greater stability over time and allowing for lower string action.

  • Neck Profile: Classical guitar neck profile, which is typically wider and flatter than steel-string acoustic or electric guitar necks. This wider spacing is ideal for classical fingerstyle techniques.

  • Neck Finish: Matte finish on the back of the neck, which allows the left hand to move smoothly while also providing a secure grip.

  • Scale Length: 650mm (approximately 25.6 inches), a standard full-size classical guitar scale length.

  • Fingerboard Material: Rosewood. Rosewood is a durable and smooth material that adds warmth to the guitar's tone.

  • Nut Width: 52mm (2.05"), which is the traditional wide nut width for classical guitars, providing ample space for fingerpicking.

  • Frets: 19 frets.

  • Low String Action: Yamaha specifically designs this model with lower string action for increased playability, making it easier for beginners and those transitioning to nylon strings.

• Hardware:

  • Tuning Machines: Chrome open-gear classical style tuners (e.g., Yamaha RM-1252X), often with white or pearloid buttons, providing a traditional look and reliable tuning stability.

  • Bridge: Rosewood, with a classic tie-block design for nylon strings.

  • Nut & Saddle Material: Urea (a durable synthetic material), though some players may choose to upgrade these to bone for slight improvements in sustain and tone.

• Other Features:

  • Strings: Comes with Yamaha S10 Medium Tension nylon strings.

  • Acoustic Only: The Yamaha CG122MCH is a purely acoustic guitar and does not feature a built-in pickup or preamp.

  • Case/Gig Bag: The guitar typically does not come with a case or gig bag and these would need to be purchased separately.

The Yamaha CG122MCH is highly praised for its solid cedar top, which offers a rich and mature tone that often exceeds expectations for its price point. Its comfortable playability, stable neck, and classic aesthetics make it a popular choice for serious students and those looking for a reliable and good-sounding classical guitar without a high investment.