The Alhambra 4P Cedar Top

July 15, 2023
Rafsan Ahmed

Table of Contents

The Alhambra 4P has earned its reputation as a timeless classic, captivating guitar enthusiasts for generations. It’s the go-to choice for those seeking remarkable quality without breaking the bank.

When I wanted a reliable and affordable guitar for my studies and performances, the 4P was a clear choice. As soon as I held it in my hands, I felt like I was cradling a far more expensive instrument.

Its balance and craftsmanship were truly impressive. The volume it produced caught me off guard, and the richness of its sound exceeded my expectations for its price range. In this article, I will discuss exactly what makes this Spanish beauty such a catch! Let’s get started with the build of this guitar.

Before diving in, would you like to check out some of the best classical guitar brands of 2023?

Made In	Spain
Model	4P
Body	Hollow Full Body
Top	Solid Red Cedar
Neck	Mahogany
Scale	650 mm
Nut Width	52 mm
Weight	4.2 pounds
Fretboard	Ebony
Frets	19
Bracing	Classical 5
Electronics	N/A
Bridge	Rosewood
Inlays	N/A
Truss Rod	Ebony
Case	N/A
Design	Classical Acoustic

Before diving in, would you like to check out some of the best classical guitar brands of 2023?

Body

The body of the Alhambra 4P guitar is a masterpiece in both design and construction. Crafted with precision and care, it showcases the exquisite combination of materials that contribute to its exceptional tone and aesthetic appeal.

The top of the guitar is made from solid red cedar, a wood known for its warm and resonant tone. This gives the guitar a balanced and pleasing sound that will make my playing experience even more enjoyable.

Complementing the top, the back and sides are constructed from Indian rosewood, a premium tonewood that enhances the guitar’s projection and sustains. The beautiful grain patterns of the rosewood add a touch of elegance to the instrument’s appearance.

With a body depth of 102 mm, the Alhambra 4P offers a comfortable and ergonomic feel, making it easy for me to play for long periods. Its 650 mm scale length and 52 mm nut width ensure smooth transitions and precise finger placement, allowing you to play with ease.
Check out 5 different playing styles of classical guitar here.

The high gloss finish applied to the body gives it a shiny and polished look, highlighting the natural beauty of the wood grain. It not only adds to the guitar’s visual appeal but also protects against everyday wear and tear.

Mahogany Neck of Alhambra

The neck is crafted from mahogany, a strong and durable wood that ensures the guitar will last a long time. The high gloss coat neck finish offers a smooth and sleek feel. It provides excellent support for your hand, allowing for effortless movement along the fingerboard.

The combination of the ebony fingerboard and the well-finished neck ensures optimal playability and a professional playing experience. Along with the neck, the body of the Alhambra 4P guitar showcases the expertise of Spanish craftsmanship and Alhambra’s commitment to quality.

Fingerboard

Playing the Alhambra 4P guitar has been a delight, and its fingerboard is a standout feature that adds to the overall enjoyment. The ebony wood used for the fingerboard is smooth and dense, providing a luxurious surface for my fingertips to glide across.

With a scale length of 650 mm, the fingerboard offers ample space for comfortable playing and precise finger positioning.

The string spacing on the fingerboard is just right, allowing me to navigate the notes with ease.
Check out our guide on how to string your classical guitar like a pro.

The fingerboard of the Alhambra 4P features a generous number of 19 frets, allowing you to explore a wide range of musical possibilities. Each fret is meticulously placed and finished, ensuring precise intonation and a comfortable playing experience.

Why Choose Alhambra 4p?

The Alhambra 4P is a popular choice for classical guitarists due to its high-quality construction, warm and rich sound, and comfortable playability. It is a multifunctional instrument that may be played in a variety of genres, including classical, flamenco, and jazz.

Take a look at our list of the greatest classical guitarists who performed in a variety of classical guitar styles.

It’s remarkable how this guitar rivals its more expensive counterparts in both craftsmanship and sound. You can really tell that Alhambra spends weeks getting the varnish just right, resulting in a perfect finish that highlights their commitment to craftsmanship.

In some countries, it may be considered a bit pricey, but I understand why. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the weeks spent on varnishing to the exquisite ebony fingerboard—a true luxury in this range. The fretwork was flawless, elevating its professional feel.

Pros & Cons of the Alhambra 4P

Pros

Exceptional Sound and Craftsmanship: The Alhambra 4P delivers a remarkable sound that defies its affordable price. With a solid red cedar top, Indian rosewood back and sides, and meticulous craftsmanship, this guitar produces a well-balanced and nuanced tone that rivals more expensive instruments.

Comfortable and Professional Playability: The 4P’s body depth, scale length, and nut width are carefully designed to ensure a comfortable playing experience for musicians of all levels. The ebony fingerboard, along with the impeccable fretwork, provides a smooth and responsive surface, allowing for precise finger placement and effortless transitions.

Quality Materials and Finishing: Alhambra’s attention to detail is evident in the choice of materials used in the 4P. From the solid cedar top to the mahogany neck and gold-plated machine heads, every component is selected to enhance the guitar’s sound, durability, and visual appeal. The high-gloss finish adds a touch of elegance while protecting against wear and tear.

Cons

Limited Availability and Pricing Discrepancies: While the Alhambra 4P offers exceptional value for its quality, its availability, and pricing may vary in different regions. In some countries, it may be less accessible or priced higher, making it less affordable for some musicians. However, this con is outweighed by the guitar’s overall performance and craftsmanship.

FAQs

What is the most popular guitar in the Alhambra lineup?

While Alhambra offers a range of exceptional guitars, the Alhambra 4P is often regarded as one of their best-selling and most popular models due to its outstanding quality and affordability.

What does the “P” series signify in Alhambra guitars?

The “P” series in Alhambra guitars represents the Professional series. These guitars are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using high-quality materials, and are designed to meet the demands of professional musicians and serious enthusiasts.

Does the Alhambra 4P come with a gig bag or case?

Yes, the Alhambra 4P comes with an Alhambra Deluxe Soft Case included. This helps protect the guitar during transportation and provides a convenient carrying solution for musicians on the go.

Author
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Rafsan Ahmed

There are not a lot of things that concern me apart from music, reading, and writing. After playing the guitar and a few other string instruments for more than 10 years I decided to merge it all. The technicality, hardware, and now the software is opening new horizons with every passing moment. Being a guitarist and a writer I share my wealth of knowledge about them here at BetterMuseek.