Alhambra 5PCT E2 Thinline Crossover Classical Guitar

Part of the Conservatory line intended for serious students, the Alhambra 5PCT cutaway classical guitar verges into the area of ‘Crossover’ models, meant to make nylon string tone and responsiveness available to players in non-classical musical contexts.  This model is based on the popular Alhambra 5P Conservatory Series Concert Classical guitar.

Several factors help define the ‘Crossover’ models. Typically, the body has a cutaway and is thinner, and there’s a recognition that the guitar will be amplified. The thinner body reduced feedback, and the pickup and preamp help restore fullness. The neck tends to be a bit narrower than concert classicals, and that is to make the neck easier to play for those without extensive classical training. Often, but not always, the fingerboard has a crown or radius, rather than being flat as is the case with traditional Classical and Flamenco models. However, the scale length, at 650mm or 25.6 inches, is the same as the basic Concert Classical.

Here we’re looking at a Alhambra 5PCT, with a pickup system identified as E2, the Fishman Prefix Pro Blend. This pickup / preamp system includes a preamp plus two transducers – an undersaddle pickup and an internal microphone. It’s powered by a single, standard 9v battery hidden behind the pivoting preamp control panel.

The Alhambra 5PCT uses a solid Red Cedar top and laminate Indian Rosewood for the sides, back and bridge. The neck is Mahogany with Ebony stiffener inserts, and the fingerboard is also Ebony.   The P in the ‘5P’ name comes from Palisandro, the Spanish name for Rosewood.

These features are aimed at working guitarists in a number of genres, from Classical , Flamenco, Latin and Jazz, to pop tunes and country.

The Alhambra 5PCT is sold with a a hard shell Euro style case.

Grant’s Quick Review of the Alhambra Professional Thinline

Alhambra Guitars Spain:  “Who We Are”.