Classical and nylon-string guitars have origins in early European lutes and vihuelas, becoming the standard for classical, flamenco, and Latin music. They produce a softer, mellower tone compared to steel-string acoustics. Brands like Cordoba, Yamaha, Ramirez, and Kremona lead the market with popular models such as the Cordoba C7, Yamaha C40, and Ramirez 1A. These guitars are favored by fingerstyle players and students due to their wider necks and lower string tension, making them comfortable for intricate techniques and expressive playing.