When you think of classical guitars, Guild is almost certainly not the first builder to come to mind. But starting in 1961, Guild's Mark Series delivered quality American-made classical options that borrowed heavily from the tradition of Spanish guitars. Although they were discontinued in the '80s, the Mark Series can still be found at accessible prices, and these vintage Guilds have a lot to offer. Especially if you're hoping to add nylon flavor to your musical palette!
This Guild Mark IV was made in Westerly, Rhode Island in 1978. That year, the model switched back to solid Rosewood back and sides, and this Mark IV has an Ebony fingerboard on a 12-fret neck with the traditional pointed neck heel. The bridge is lightweight rosewood, and the scale length measures 25-1/2". With a Cedar top, wide 2" nut, and traditional fan bracing under the hood, this Mark IV feels like a proper Spanish-style classical. But it was made by a legacy American guitar brand! And over the years, it has developed the rich, nuanced sound we love from vintage American guitars.
Despite the years, this 1978 Guild Mark IV finds us in impressive cosmetic condition. There is some play wear on the treble side of the sound hole (see photos), and there are some scuffs worth noting on the back. The bridge looks like it was partially re-glued in the past, so it is stable and rock solid against the top. The lacquer is cracked and broken around the neck heel, but the neck has never needed to be reset and the action is in a good place for nylon string tension. There is some room at the bridge to adjust lower, but the setup currently allows you to dig in and take advantage of the broad dynamic range without buzzing the strings against the frets.
This 1978 Guild Mark IV produces detailed, balanced sound with clarity across the register and plenty of low end. While it would be a usable tool for a traditional classical player, it shines for bossa nova and fingerstyle jazz just the same. It also has a rich, softer timbre for strumming and folk music with a pick. A versatile vintage nylon-string guitar that brings a lot to the table! It includes its original hardshell case.