Best Requinto Guitars

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The requinto guitar is a smaller-bodied, higher-pitched cousin of the classical guitar, often used in Latin, bolero, and mariachi music. Tuned A–A (a fourth higher than standard tuning), it delivers a bright, sweet, and vibrant tone that cuts through ensembles and shines in solo settings.

If you’re looking to expand your tonal palette or need the perfect instrument for romantic Latin ballads, this guide highlights the best requinto guitars available today—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned performer.

What Is a Requinto Guitar?

A requinto is a smaller, short-scale nylon-string guitar. Here’s what sets it apart:

  • Tuning: A–D–G–C–E–A (a fourth above standard guitar tuning)

  • Scale length: Around 530mm–580mm (shorter than classical guitars)

  • Body size: 1/4 to 3/4 the size of a standard classical

  • Tone: Brighter, more present, with fast note attack and sweet highs

Perfect for:

  • Latin romantic and bolero music

  • Mariachi lead guitar parts

  • Fingerstyle and melodic solos

  • Children or players with small hands

Best Requinto Guitars (2024 Picks)

1. Cordoba Requinto 580

Best Overall Requinto Guitar for Quality and Price

Cordoba’s Requinto 580 is a standout in this category—beautifully built, affordable, and incredibly playable with solid wood tone and traditional style.

Key Features:

  • Solid cedar top

  • Mahogany back and sides

  • 580mm scale length

  • Lightweight and responsive

Why It’s Great:

  • Warm, resonant tone that projects beautifully

  • High-quality construction with classical feel

  • Comes pre-tuned in A (requinto tuning)

Best For: Intermediate to advanced players seeking real tone and build quality

2. Paracho Elite Requinto Romano

Best Handcrafted Requinto for Traditional Latin Style

Made in Paracho, Mexico—a region known for handcrafting guitars—the Romano is a true traditional requinto with decorative flair and punchy projection.

Key Features:

  • Solid cedar top

  • Rosewood back and sides

  • Hand-inlaid rosette and decorative binding

  • Made by skilled artisans

Why It’s Great:

  • Loud, punchy sound for Latin ensembles

  • Eye-catching design with handmade appeal

  • Authentic character from the heart of requinto culture

Best For: Latin music purists and mariachi performers

3. Yamaha CS40II

Best Budget-Friendly Requinto-Style Guitar for Beginners

While not a true requinto, this 3/4-size classical can be tuned to A and serves as a fantastic beginner requinto or child-size guitar.

Key Features:

  • Spruce top

  • Meranti back and sides

  • 580mm scale length

  • Comfortable neck and body

Why It’s Great:

  • Affordable and durable for beginners

  • Easy to tune to requinto pitch

  • Yamaha’s reliable quality

Best For: Beginners, students, and young players trying out requinto-style music

4. Lucida LG-RQ2 Requinto

Best Entry-Level True Requinto Guitar

Lucida’s LG-RQ2 is a solid choice if you want a dedicated requinto guitar that won’t break the bank. It’s designed for bolero and mariachi tones with minimal setup needed.

Key Features:

  • Spruce top

  • Mahogany body

  • Traditional A–A tuning

  • Satin finish and decorative rosette

Why It’s Great:

  • Great value for the price

  • Real requinto tone for starters and casual players

  • Pre-tuned and gig-ready out of the box

Best For: Beginners, casual Latin music players, and budget-conscious musicians

5. Delgado Requinto Guitars (Custom Shop)

Best High-End Requinto for Professionals

Delgado Guitars, based in the U.S., offers custom-built requintos for performers and serious musicians. Their craftsmanship is elite, with custom woods, scale lengths, and tones.

Key Features:

  • Handcrafted to order

  • Premium tonewoods and custom scale options

  • Built by a family with generations of guitar-building heritage

Why It’s Great:

  • Boutique quality and one-of-a-kind tone

  • Used by top mariachi and bolero artists

  • Unmatched attention to detail

Best For: Professionals, collectors, and advanced players who want a lifelong instrument

Requinto Guitar Comparison Table

Model Top Wood Scale Length Best For Price Range
Cordoba Requinto 580 Solid cedar 580mm Intermediate players, studio & live use ~$400–$500
Paracho Elite Romano Solid cedar ~580mm Traditional Latin players, live mariachi ~$350–$450
Yamaha CS40II Spruce 580mm Beginners, kids, budget starter ~$160
Lucida LG-RQ2 Spruce ~580mm Entry-level requinto players ~$150–$200
Delgado Custom Requinto Customizable Varies Professionals and custom tone seekers $1,500+

What to Look for in a Requinto Guitar

1. Tuning Compatibility

Ensure the guitar can be tuned to A standard (A–A) without stressing the neck. Requintos are made with this tuning in mind.

2. Scale Length

Most requintos range between 530mm–580mm. This shorter scale increases string tension and pitch.

3. Solid Top vs. Laminate

  • Solid tops = better tone, resonance, and long-term value.

  • Laminate tops = more affordable and durable for beginners.

4. Tonewoods

  • Cedar tops = warm and expressive (ideal for fingerstyle and romantic music).

  • Spruce tops = bright and articulate (cuts well in ensembles).

5. Playability

Look for smooth frets, low action, and a comfortable neck—especially if you have smaller hands.

Final Thoughts

A great requinto guitar opens the door to vibrant, expressive Latin music, whether you’re playing boleros, serenatas, or traditional mariachi. The right model depends on your budget, skill level, and musical focus.

Here’s the bottom line:

  • Choose the Cordoba Requinto 580 for the best balance of tone, build, and price.

  • Pick the Paracho Elite Romano for traditional, handcrafted Latin flair.

  • Go with the Yamaha CS40II or Lucida LG-RQ2 for affordable entry points.

  • Invest in a Delgado Custom Requinto if you’re a pro seeking personalized perfection.

Ready to dive into the romantic world of requinto music? Grab the guitar that speaks to your heart—and let the melodies soar

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