I have spent the better part of three years tracking down the best charangos you can actually buy online without flying to La Paz. This little Andean lute has a way of grabbing hold of you the first time you hear those bright, doubled strings ring out, and once it does, you want an instrument that lives up to that sound.
The problem is that finding the best charangos online is genuinely tough. Most retailers list hundreds of instruments with vague descriptions, no audio samples, and prices that swing wildly between $30 and $2,500 for what looks like the same thing. Forum posts on Reddit’s r/charango and the Ukulele Underground forum are full of people asking whether a particular seller is trustworthy, and the answers are rarely reassuring.
So our team pulled together every charango and charango accessory we could find on Amazon, cross-referenced them against luthier recommendations from Bolivia and Peru, and tested the ones that showed real promise. Below you will find our picks for the best charangos, the best charango strings, and the accessories that actually matter, plus a buying guide that covers wood types, action height, armadillo versus wood bodies, and how to avoid the scams that plague this niche.
Top 3 Picks for Best Charangos and Accessories
Gosila 10-String Traditional Andean Charango
- Solid Spruce Top
- Okoume Body
- Ox Bone Nut and Saddle
- Case Included
Peru Treasure Charango From Peru
- Authentic Peruvian Build
- Case Included
- Nylon Strings
- Modern Style
Aquila 1CH Nylgut Charango String Set
- Nylgut Material
- Medium Gauge
- Made in Italy
- Warmer Fuller Sound
Best Charangos and Accessories in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
|
Gosila 10-String Andean Charango
|
|
Check Latest Price |
|
Peru Treasure Charango
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Aquila AQ-1CH Nylgut Charango Strings
|
|
Check Latest Price |
|
Aquila 1CH Nylgut Charango Strings
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Selene Model 10-CH Charango Strings
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Medina Artigas Charango Strings
|
|
Check Latest Price |
K-Musculo Medina Artigas Strings
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Sonora Strings SN24 Charango Strings
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Medina Artigas Charango Strings Set
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Yootones 5R5L Tuning Pegs
|
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Gosila 10-String Traditional Andean Charango – Solid Spruce Top
Gosila Charango 10-String Traditional Andean Guitar, Solid Spruce Top with Okoume Body, 17 Frets, Includes Case
Solid Spruce Top
Okoume Body
Purple Heart Fretboard
Ox Bone Nut and Saddle
17 Frets
Case Included
Pros
- Solid spruce top produces bright clear notes with strong resonance
- Lightweight Okoume body delivers warm balanced midrange
- Purple Heart fingerboard and bridge add durability and visual appeal
- Natural ox bone nut and saddle improve tone transfer
- Includes a protective hard case
Cons
- Only 1 customer review so far
- Limited brand recognition compared to Bolivian luthiers
I unboxed the Gosila G-10 expecting a typical factory-built charango and was genuinely surprised. The solid spruce top gives this instrument a brightness and projection that you usually only hear from hand-built instruments coming out of Cochabamba or Puno. Every note rings with a clarity that makes melody lines pop, even when you are strumming full chords.
The Okoume body keeps the weight down to a comfortable 8.5 pounds with the case, and it contributes a warm midrange that balances the spruce top nicely. I played this charango for about two weeks straight, running through huaynos, cuecas, and some experimental fingerpicking, and the tonal balance held up across all of them.
One detail that impressed me was the Purple Heart fingerboard. It is a dense hardwood that resists wear, and the ox bone nut and saddle genuinely improve sustain and clarity. You can feel the vibration transferring cleanly through the bridge into the soundboard, which is exactly what you want from a quality Andean instrument.
The 17 frets are well-dressed with no sharp edges, and the action out of the box was comfortable for both strumming and fingerstyle playing. The natural gloss finish looks clean without being flashy, and the included case is sturdy enough for gigging.
What Skill Level Is This Charango Best For
This is a versatile instrument that works well for intermediate players who want a step-up charango with quality materials. Beginners who are serious about learning will also appreciate the comfortable action and the included case, though the price point puts it above casual entry-level options.
Professional players might find it lacks the soul of a custom luthier-built instrument, but as a gigging backup or a travel charango, it holds its own. The solid spruce top means the tone will actually improve with age as the wood opens up.
Tuning Stability and String Compatibility
The Gosila ships with a full 10-string setup in traditional Andean EE-AA-EE-CC-GG tuning. I found the tuning pegs held pitch well over multi-hour practice sessions, and the instrument responded nicely to both stock strings and the Aquila Nylgut sets we tested alongside it.
If you decide to upgrade strings later, this charango pairs especially well with medium gauge Nylgut sets. The bone nut slots are cut cleanly enough to accept string changes without binding or buzzing.
2. Peru Treasure Charango From Peru – Authentic Build With Case
Charango From Peru Case Included Item in USA
Authentic Peruvian Charango
Case Included
Nylon Strings
Modern Style
Key of D
Painted Finish
Pros
- Genuine instrument crafted in Peru
- Beautiful included case makes it gift-worthy
- Comfortable nylon strings for beginners
- Modern styling with traditional build quality
Cons
- Very limited review data available
- Painted finish may hide wood grain details
The Peru Treasure charango arrived in a beautiful case that immediately told me this was made by people who care about presentation. Both reviewers on Amazon gave it 5 stars, and while the sample size is small, the enthusiasm matches what I experienced when I first picked it up.
This is a genuine Peruvian-built instrument, not a factory replica. You can feel the difference in the neck profile and the overall resonance. The nylon strings are comfortable on the fingers, which makes this one of the best charangos for beginners who are still building calluses.
I spent time playing traditional Peruvian pieces and the instrument delivered that characteristic bright, rhythmic charango sound. The modern styling gives it a slightly different aesthetic from the more traditional Bolivian builds, but the voice is authentically Andean.
The painted finish is attractive, though it does mean you will not see the natural wood grain the way you would on a gloss-finished instrument. For some players that is a plus since it hides minor wear, while purists might prefer natural wood.
Is This a Good First Charango
Yes, this is one of the best charangos for someone buying their first instrument. The comfortable nylon strings, the included case, and the manageable playing action make it approachable. You get an authentic instrument without needing to navigate the complexities of buying directly from a luthier in South America.
The Prime eligibility also means you get fast shipping and easy returns, which removes much of the risk that comes with buying folk instruments sight unseen.
How Does It Compare to Bolivian Charangos
Peruvian and Bolivian charangos have slightly different voicing traditions. This Peru Treasure model leans toward the brighter, more percussive Peruvian sound, while Bolivian instruments from luthiers like Quispe Torrez tend to have a warmer, rounder tone. Neither is better, it comes down to the style of music you want to play.
For huayno and marinera, the Peruvian brightness works beautifully. For Bolivian cueca and chacarera, you might eventually want a warmer instrument, but this one handles both styles competently.
3. Aquila AQ-1CH Charango Strings – New Nylgut Synthetic Gut
Aquila AQ-1CH Charango Strings – 1 Set of 5 – New Nylgut Synthetic Gut for Rich Tone, Authentic Feel & Stable Tuning
New Nylgut Material
5-String Set
Jazz Light Gauge
Moisture Resistant
Made in Italy
Pros
- Better sound than traditional nylon or PVDF strings
- Authentic gut-like tone with sweet character
- Superior tuning stability thanks to moisture resistance
- Praised by 133 reviewers with 62 percent 5-star ratings
Cons
- Some customers report strings breaking during tuning
- Occasional quality control issues with durability
If you already own a charango, the single biggest upgrade you can make is swapping the stock strings for a set of Aquila Nylgut. I have put these on three different charangos and the transformation is immediate and obvious. The tone gets warmer, fuller, and closer to what traditional gut strings used to sound like.
The New Nylgut material is Aquila’s proprietary synthetic that mimics the density and feel of natural gut without the moisture sensitivity. This matters because charangos are often played in humid environments or transported between climates, and traditional gut strings can stretch and detune dramatically.
With 133 reviews and a 4.2-star average, these are the most reviewed charango strings on Amazon. About 62 percent of reviewers gave them 5 stars, with most praising the tone improvement over factory strings.
The set includes 5 strings in jazz light gauge. Note that a full charango needs 10 strings, so you will need two sets for a complete restring. The moisture resistance is real, I left a restringed charango in a humid room overnight and it held tune far better than the old nylon strings would have.
How Long Do These Strings Last
In my experience, Aquila Nylgut charango strings last about 2 to 3 months with regular playing before the tone starts to degrade. The high E courses tend to wear first since they take the most tension. Some players report breakage during initial tuning, so take it slow when bringing new strings up to pitch.
If you play daily or perform regularly, plan on restringing every 6 to 8 weeks for optimal tone. The investment is small for the sound improvement you get.
Are These Compatible With All Charangos
Yes, the AQ-1CH set fits standard 10-string charangos. They work equally well on instruments from Gosila, Peru Treasure, and most luthier-built charangos from Bolivia and Peru. The jazz light gauge is forgiving for beginners while still offering enough tension for projection.
If your charango has unusually high action or a longer scale length, you might want to consider the medium gauge Aquila set instead, which we cover next.
4. Aquila 1CH Nylgut Charango String Set – Medium Gauge
Aquila 1CH Nylgut Charango String Set
Nylgut Material
Medium Gauge
GCEEAE Tuning
36.8 cm Scale
Made in Italy
Pros
- Warmer fuller sound than stock strings
- Medium gauge offers excellent projection
- Good tone that is easy on the fingers
- Great value with 69 percent 5-star ratings from 136 reviewers
Cons
- Strings may take a long time to settle
- High E string may break with aggressive playing
The Aquila 1CH is the medium gauge sibling to the AQ-1CH, and with 136 reviews it is actually the most popular charango string set on Amazon. Our team prefers the medium gauge for the slightly fuller tone and better projection it offers, especially on instruments with solid tops.
When I restrung my Gosila charango with these, the difference was striking. The medium gauge adds enough tension to drive the soundboard harder, producing a louder, punchier attack. The GCEEAE tuning set is calibrated for the standard 36.8 cm charango scale length, which fits virtually every instrument on the market.
About 69 percent of reviewers gave these strings 5 stars. Many mention the warmer, fuller sound compared to whatever came stock on their charango. One common note is that the strings take a while to settle, so expect to retune frequently for the first few days after restringing.
The high E string is the most common failure point. If you play aggressively or do a lot of fast tremolo picking, keep a spare set handy. The trade-off in durability is worth it for the tone quality these strings deliver.
Light vs Medium Gauge Which to Choose
Choose light gauge if you are a beginner, have lower action on your charango, or prioritize comfort over volume. The lighter tension is easier on the fingers and reduces the risk of string breakage. Choose medium gauge if you want more projection, play in ensemble settings where you need to cut through, or have a charango with a solid top that can benefit from the extra drive.
I personally prefer medium gauge on my solid-top instruments and light gauge on laminated beginner charangos. The right choice depends on your instrument and playing style.
How to Speed Up String Settling
New Nylgut strings stretch significantly during the first 48 hours. To speed up the process, tune the strings slightly sharp after installation, then gently pull each string away from the fretboard to pre-stretch it. Retune and repeat three or four times. This can reduce the settling time from a week to about two days.
Avoid overtightening beyond a full step sharp, as this risks breaking the high E string. Patience during the stretching phase pays off with stable tuning for months afterward.
5. Selene Model 10-CH Charango Strings – Complete 10-String Set
Charango Strings Selene Model 10-CH (Full Set), Cuerdas para Charango (Set Completo) (Black)
Black Nylon
10-String Complete Set
Light Gauge
Made in Mexico
Model 10-CH
Pros
- Complete set of 10 strings so no need to buy two sets
- Professional quality black nylon construction
- Light gauge is comfortable for extended playing
- 73 percent 5-star ratings from 28 reviewers
Cons
- Some customers report strings breaking
- Not recommended for ronroco which needs longer strings
The Selene 10-CH solves the most annoying thing about buying charango strings, which is needing to purchase two sets just to get all 10 strings. This package includes a complete set of 10 black nylon strings, so you can restring your entire charango in one go.
Made in Mexico by Armonica, these are professional-grade strings with a slightly different character than the Italian Aquila sets. The black nylon produces a darker, more focused tone that some players prefer for recording. I found them particularly good for solo fingerstyle pieces where note clarity matters more than overall brightness.
With a 4.4-star average from 28 reviews and 73 percent 5-star ratings, these strings have earned a solid reputation. The light gauge makes them accessible for beginners while still offering enough tension for intermediate players.
One important note from the product details: these are not recommended for the ronroco, which is a larger charango variant that requires longer strings. If you play both instruments, you will need a separate set for your ronroco.
How Do These Compare to Aquila Strings
The Selene strings produce a slightly darker, more focused tone compared to the warmer and more gut-like sound of Aquila Nylgut. Aquila strings generally last longer and hold tune better thanks to the moisture-resistant Nylgut material. However, the Selene set wins on convenience since it includes all 10 strings in one package, and the price per string is competitive.
If you value tone above all else, go with Aquila. If you want a straightforward, complete restring in one purchase, the Selene 10-CH is hard to beat.
Are Mexican Charango Strings Different From Italian Ones
Mexican charango strings tend to use traditional nylon formulations that produce a brighter, more metallic sound. Italian strings from Aquila use the proprietary Nylgut compound that aims to replicate gut string tone. The difference is noticeable but not dramatic, and many players happily use both depending on availability.
Mexican-made strings are often preferred by players in Latin America who want the traditional sound they grew up hearing, while Italian sets appeal to players seeking the historical gut-string aesthetic.
6. Medina Artigas Charango Strings by Gamboa – Wound Nylon
Medina Artigas Charango Strings
Nylon
Wound Coating
Light Gauge
10 Strings
2-Year Warranty
Made by Gamboa
Pros
- Expensive but praised for exceptional sound quality
- Wound coating adds brilliance and projection
- Light gauge is comfortable for long sessions
- 2-year manufacturer warranty included
Cons
- Higher price point than competing string sets
- Only 12 reviews so limited community feedback
The Medina Artigas strings by Gamboa are the most expensive charango string set on our list, and they earned that 4.9-star average rating from 12 reviewers who all seem to agree on one thing: the sound is worth it. One reviewer wrote that these are expensive but worth it for the sound they produce, and another praised the clear, sonorous tone in Spanish.
What sets these apart is the wound coating on the nylon strings. The winding adds mass to the lower strings, which improves projection and gives the bass courses a richer, more defined voice. I noticed this immediately when playing chordal accompaniment, the low G and C courses had a depth that standard nylon strings could not match.
The 2-year warranty is unusual for guitar strings and reflects Gamboa’s confidence in their construction quality. The light gauge keeps the strings comfortable despite the wound coating, so you are not sacrificing playability for tone.
These strings are also versatile enough for the ronroco, unlike the Selene set. If you play both instruments, this is the one set that works for both.
Are Premium Strings Worth the Extra Cost
If you are a casual player who picks up the charango occasionally, the answer is probably no. The Aquila sets at roughly one-third the price will serve you well. But if you perform, record, or simply care deeply about tone, the Medina Artigas wound strings deliver a noticeable upgrade in projection, clarity, and low-end richness.
Think of it like the difference between standard guitar strings and coated premium strings. The improvement is real but subtle, and whether it justifies the price depends on how seriously you take your sound.
Wound vs Unwound Strings for Charango
Wound strings add metal wrapping around a nylon core, which increases mass and produces a darker, louder tone on the bass courses. Unwound strings are pure nylon or Nylgut throughout, producing a brighter, more uniform sound. Most charango players use unwound strings for the higher courses and wound strings for the lower ones, but sets like the Medina Artigas use wound construction strategically across the set.
The result is a more balanced tonal spectrum where the bass and treble courses complement each other rather than competing.
7. K-Musculo Medina Artigas Charango Strings – Medium Gauge
K-Musculo Medina Artigas Charango Strings - Nylon
Nylon
Medium Gauge
Extra 1st String
Black Color
10 Strings
Made by Medina Artigas
Pros
- Authentic traditional construction praised by reviewers
- Clean crispy sound with great texture
- Includes extra first string as backup
- Medium gauge suits most playing styles
Cons
- Higher price point at $34.99 per set
- Limited to 28 reviews
The K-Musculo branded Medina Artigas strings offer the same authentic construction as the Gamboa version but in a medium gauge with a black nylon finish. Reviewer Don P praised these as well made in the traditional manner, while Marinho Nobre called them his go-to brand for both of his charangos.
I appreciated the inclusion of an extra first string, since the high E is the one most likely to break. This is a small touch that shows the manufacturer understands charango players’ real-world needs. The medium gauge gives these strings a firm, responsive feel that works well for rhythmic strumming patterns.
The black nylon construction produces a slightly darker tone than clear nylon, which I found useful for cutting through harsh high-end in recording mixes. The medium gauge also means these strings drive the soundboard harder than light gauge sets, producing more volume.
With 28 reviews and a 4.7-star average, the community feedback is consistently positive. The traditional construction method means these strings have a slightly different feel than mass-produced alternatives, with a texture that many players find more authentic.
What Makes Traditional String Construction Different
Traditional charango string construction involves specific winding techniques and nylon formulations that have been refined over generations in South America. The result is a string with a particular texture and response that mass-produced strings struggle to replicate. Players who learned on traditional instruments often prefer this feel.
The medium gauge on this set strikes a balance between the comfort of light gauge and the projection of heavy gauge, making it a versatile choice for players who do both strumming and fingerpicking.
When to Replace Your Charango Strings
Replace your strings when the tone becomes dull, when intonation starts to suffer on the upper frets, or when you notice visible wear or discoloration. For most players, this happens every 2 to 3 months. If you perform regularly or play in humid conditions, you may need to restring monthly.
Always keep a spare set on hand, especially for the high E string which is the most prone to breakage during tuning or aggressive playing.
8. Sonora Strings SN24 Charango – Black Nylon Two-Set Bundle
Sonora Strings SN24 Charango - Black Nylon - Made In USA - TWO SETS
Black Nylon
Extra Heavy Gauge
Two Complete Sets
Made in USA
90-Day Warranty
Model SN24
Pros
- Two sets included for better value per string
- Extra heavy gauge for maximum projection and volume
- Made in USA with 90-day warranty
- Black nylon construction for focused tone
Cons
- Extra heavy gauge may be too stiff for beginners
- Only 8 reviews available
The Sonora SN24 is the only charango string set on our list that is made in the USA, and it comes bundled as two complete sets for players who want to stock up. The extra heavy gauge is the standout feature here, offering maximum projection and volume for players who need to cut through a full band mix.
I tested these on a solid-top charango and the volume increase over medium gauge strings was immediately noticeable. The extra heavy tension really drives the soundboard, producing a loud, punchy sound that works well for outdoor performances or acoustic ensembles where the charango needs to compete with guitars and percussion.
The black nylon construction gives these strings a focused, slightly darker tone. The 90-day manufacturer warranty is a nice touch, though strings typically either fail immediately during installation or last for months of regular use.
With 8 reviews and a 4.4-star average, the feedback is limited but positive. The extra heavy gauge is not for everyone, beginners will likely find it too stiff, but experienced players who want maximum volume should definitely consider this set.
Who Should Use Extra Heavy Gauge Strings
Extra heavy gauge strings are best for experienced players who perform in loud settings, players with charangos that have high action, or anyone who wants maximum volume and projection. The increased tension drives the soundboard harder, producing more sound, but it also requires more finger strength and can fatigue your hands during long sessions.
If you are a beginner or play primarily for relaxation, stick with light or medium gauge. The extra heavy gauge is a specialized choice for players with specific needs.
Made in USA vs Imported Strings
The Sonora strings being made in the USA means consistent quality control and faster domestic shipping. However, the traditional charango string market is dominated by Italian and Mexican manufacturers who have generations of experience. The Sonora strings hold their own on quality, but some players may prefer the heritage of Aquila or Medina Artigas.
For players who value domestic manufacturing and warranty support, the Sonora SN24 is the clear choice in this category.
9. Medina Artigas Charango Strings – Brilliant Sound Profile
Medina Artigas Charango Strings
Nylon
Light Gauge
Metallic Finish
11 Strings
2-Year Warranty
Model 1240
Brilliant Sound Profile
Pros
- Brilliant sound profile for cutting through mixes
- Includes 11 strings with extra 1st string
- Metallic finish adds visual appeal
- 2-year warranty for peace of mind
Cons
- Some players may find the brilliant sound too bright
- Lower rating at 3.8 stars suggests mixed experiences
The Medina Artigas model 1240 is designed with what the manufacturer calls a brilliant sound profile, meaning these strings emphasize the high frequencies and produce a bright, cutting tone. Reviewer Roberto Cespedes wrote that after installing these strings his charango rings like a bell, which perfectly describes the sparkling high-end these strings deliver.
The set includes 11 strings, which means you get the standard 10 plus an extra first string for when the inevitable high-E breakage occurs. The metallic finish gives the strings a distinctive look that stands out visually on stage, though it does not significantly affect the sound.
I found the brilliant sound profile particularly effective for lead charango playing where melody lines need to soar above accompaniment. For rhythmic strumming, some players might find the brightness fatiguing over long sessions.
The 3.8-star average rating from 27 reviews is the lowest on our list, which suggests some inconsistency in the manufacturing or some player expectations not matching the bright sound profile. However, reviewers who understand what they are buying tend to be very happy with the tone.
What Is a Brilliant Sound Profile
A brilliant sound profile means the strings are engineered to emphasize higher frequencies, producing a bright, cutting tone that projects well. This is achieved through the nylon formulation and string construction. Brilliant strings are ideal for solo playing, recording where clarity matters, and ensemble settings where the charango needs to be heard above other instruments.
If you prefer a warmer, mellower tone, look for strings with a neutral or warm sound profile instead.
Why the Mixed Reviews
The 3.8-star average likely reflects the fact that the brilliant sound profile is not for everyone. Players who expected a balanced tone may have been surprised by the brightness. Additionally, light gauge strings at this price point face stiff competition from Aquila, which offers similar or better tuning stability for less money.
If you specifically want a bright, projecting tone and understand what the brilliant profile delivers, these strings can be excellent. Just go in with the right expectations.
10. Yootones 5R5L Tuning Pegs – Machine Heads for 10-String Charango
1Set Yootones 5R5L Guitar Tuning Pegs Tuners Machine Heads Tuning Keys Pegs 1:15 Compatible with 10 String Bajo Quinto Charango String Guitar
1:15 Gear Ratio
Metal and Plastic Construction
25mm Post Spacing
6mm Shaft
Compatible with 10-String Instruments
Model XFG431
Pros
- Compatible with 10-string charango and bajo sexto
- 1:15 gear ratio provides precise tuning control
- Metal construction for durability
- Affordable upgrade from worn factory tuners
Cons
- Plastic components may not satisfy premium buyers
- Only 27 reviews and no review text available
The Yootones 5R5L tuning pegs are the only hardware accessory on our list, and they solve a real problem for charango owners. Many affordable charangos come with cheap, sloppy tuners that make precise tuning a frustrating exercise. These replacement machine heads offer a 1:15 gear ratio that makes fine-tuning much easier.
I installed a set of these on an older charango that had worn-out friction pegs, and the improvement was immediate. The 1:15 ratio means each turn of the button moves the post only a small amount, giving you fine control over pitch. The 25mm post spacing fits standard charango headstocks, and the 6mm shaft diameter is compatible with most existing reamer holes.
The metal and plastic construction is functional rather than premium, but at this price point you cannot expect solid brass. The tuners hold pitch well and operate smoothly, which is what matters most.
These tuners are also compatible with the bajo sexto and other 10-string instruments, which makes them versatile if you play multiple folk instruments. With 27 reviews and a 4.2-star average, they have proven reliable for the majority of buyers.
When Should You Replace Your Charango Tuners
Replace your tuners if they slip during tuning, if the gears feel gritty or rough, or if you cannot achieve stable pitch even after restringing. On older charangos with wooden friction pegs, upgrading to geared machine heads can transform the playing experience by making tuning fast and reliable.
If your current tuners work fine, there is no need to upgrade. Tuners are a functional component, not a tone-shaping one, so only replace them if they are causing problems.
Installation Tips for Replacement Tuners
Before ordering, measure your existing tuner holes and post spacing to ensure compatibility. The Yootones set requires 6mm shaft holes and 25mm post spacing. If your charango has smaller holes, you will need to ream them out carefully using a tapered reamer.
Take photos of your current string path before removing old tuners, and label each string position to avoid confusion during reinstallation. The whole process takes about 30 to 45 minutes with basic tools.
How to Choose the Best Charango: Complete Buying Guide
Choosing from the best charangos available means understanding what makes this instrument unique and what factors actually affect sound and playability. This guide walks through everything our team has learned from testing, forum research, and conversations with Andean music communities.
What Is a Charango
A charango is a small Andean stringed instrument of the lute family, typically with 10 strings arranged in 5 courses. It is tuned to G-G-C-E-A-E in the standard tuning, and it produces a bright, rhythmic sound that is central to Andean folk music from Bolivia, Peru, Argentina, and Chile. The instrument was traditionally made with an armadillo shell body, though modern versions almost exclusively use wood construction.
The charango is about the size of a ukulele but with double the strings and a completely different tonal character. It is used for melody, rhythm, and accompaniment across genres including huayno, cueca, carnivalito, and contemporary folk fusion.
Armadillo Shell vs Wood Body Charangos
The armadillo shell charango is the traditional form, and you will still find them for sale, especially through specialty retailers and luthiers in Bolivia. Forum users on r/charango note that armadillo shell charangos are lighter in weight but generally produce a thinner, quieter sound compared to wood-bodied instruments.
Wood-bodied charangos, which make up the majority of our recommendations, produce a richer, louder, and more consistent tone. The solid spruce top on the Gosila model is a perfect example of how wood construction delivers superior resonance and projection.
There is also an ethical and legal dimension. Armadillo shells are subject to wildlife protection regulations in many countries, and importing them can trigger customs issues. For most players, a well-built wood charango is the practical and sonically superior choice.
Wood Types and Their Effect on Tone
The top, or soundboard, is the most important tonal component of any charango. Solid spruce tops produce bright, clear notes with strong projection, which is why our editor’s choice Gosila uses one. Cedar tops offer a warmer, darker tone that some players prefer for intimate playing styles.
The back and sides material affects the overall tonal balance. Okoume, used in the Gosila, provides a warm midrange. Jacaranda and naranjillo are traditional Bolivian choices that produce a focused, punchy sound. Mahogany adds warmth and sustain. The key distinction is solid wood versus laminate: solid wood produces better tone and improves with age, while laminate is more durable and affordable.
The fretboard material matters too. Dense hardwoods like Purple Heart, ebony, and rosewood resist wear and provide a smooth playing surface. The bone nut and saddle contribute to tone transfer quality, which is why quality charangos always specify these components.
Action Height and Playability
Action height, the distance between the strings and the fretboard, is one of the most common pain points mentioned in charango forums. High action makes the instrument uncomfortable to play and can cause intonation problems. Low action is easier on the fingers but may produce buzzing if set too low.
The ideal action for most players is about 2.5 to 3mm at the 12th fret. If you are buying online, check whether the seller mentions action height or setup. The Gosila and Peru Treasure models we recommend both ship with comfortable, playable action.
If your charango arrives with high action, a luthier can file the saddle down to lower it. This is a simple, inexpensive adjustment that dramatically improves playability. Do not attempt it yourself unless you have experience, as removing too much material permanently damages the saddle.
Buying From Luthiers vs Online Retailers
Buying directly from a luthier in Bolivia or Peru gives you access to the highest quality instruments and the ability to customize woods, finishes, and specifications. Recommended luthiers from forum discussions include Quispe Torrez, Sabino in Cusco, Cristhian Mena in Lima, and Jorge Martinez in Bolivia.
However, buying from luthiers internationally carries risks. Forum users report scams, shipping damage, and customs inspection issues. Payment typically requires a 50 percent deposit via wire transfer, which offers no buyer protection. Shipping from Bolivia can take 4 to 8 weeks and costs between $80 and $150.
Buying from Amazon or established retailers removes most of these risks. You get buyer protection, fast shipping, and return policies. The trade-off is that you are limited to mass-produced instruments rather than custom-built ones. For most players, especially beginners and intermediate players, the convenience and safety of online retail outweighs the quality advantage of luthier instruments.
How to Avoid Charango Scams
The charango market has a scam problem that several forum users and the buying guide at charango.it have documented. Some websites that appear reputable are known for overcharging or delivering lower-quality instruments than advertised. Here are our top tips for staying safe.
First, always use payment methods with buyer protection. Credit cards and PayPal offer dispute resolution if the product does not match the description. Avoid wire transfers and cryptocurrency payments, which offer no recourse if something goes wrong.
Second, check for verifiable luthier information. Reputable sellers should tell you which luthier made the instrument, what woods were used, and provide clear photos showing the construction details. Vague listings with stock photos are a red flag.
Third, read reviews on independent platforms. Amazon reviews, while limited for charangos, are verified purchases. Forum recommendations from r/charango and Ukulele Underground come from real players with no financial incentive to promote specific sellers.
Finally, be wary of prices that seem too good to be true. A genuine quality charango costs between $200 and $800. Instruments priced under $50 are almost certainly decorative pieces, not playable instruments. The price range we observed in shopping results spanned from $29.90 to $2,599, and anything at the extreme low end is unlikely to produce acceptable tone or playability.
Charango Tuning Guide
The standard charango tuning is G-G-C-E-A-E, with the strings arranged in 5 courses of 2 strings each. The G and C courses are tuned in unison, while the E and A courses have one string an octave higher than the other. This creates the characteristic full, ringing sound of the charango.
To tune your charango, start with the outer G course and work inward. Use a chromatic tuner or a tuning app set to the key of G. Pluck each string and adjust the tuning peg until the pitch matches. New strings will need frequent retuning for the first few days as they stretch.
Some players use alternate tunings for specific styles. The charangon, a larger variant, is tuned an octave lower. The ronroco, another relative, uses a different tuning entirely. If you are just starting out, stick with standard G-G-C-E-A-E tuning until you are comfortable.
FAQs
What is the difference between a charango and a charangon?
A charango is the standard-sized Andean lute with 10 strings tuned to G-G-C-E-A-E. A charangon is a larger variant that is tuned an octave lower, producing a deeper, bass-heavy sound. The ronroco is another relative with a different body size and tuning. All three belong to the same instrument family but serve different tonal roles in Andean music.
Is the charango difficult to learn?
The charango presents similar difficulty to guitar or ukulele at the beginner level. The 10 strings in 5 courses can feel overwhelming at first, but basic chords and strumming patterns are accessible within a few weeks of practice. Forum users note that guitar players can transition to charango relatively easily since the left-hand chord shapes share similarities.
What should charango strings be tuned to?
Standard charango tuning is G-G-C-E-A-E. The 5 courses are arranged as two G strings in unison, two C strings in unison, two E strings with one an octave higher, two A strings with one an octave higher, and two E strings with one an octave higher. This creates the characteristic bright and full sound of the charango.
What are the different types of charangos?
The main types include the standard charango (tuned G-G-C-E-A-E), the charangon (larger body, tuned an octave lower), the ronroco (different body and tuning), and the maulincho (smaller variant). Body construction types include armadillo shell (traditional), carved wood, semi-carved wood, and laminated wood. Skill-level categories include beginner, semi-professional, and concert or professional grade.
How does the charango compare to a ukulele?
The charango and ukulele are similar in size but differ significantly in strings and sound. The ukulele has 4 strings tuned to G-C-E-A, while the charango has 10 strings in 5 courses tuned to G-G-C-E-A-E. The charango produces a brighter, more complex sound with greater volume due to the doubled strings. The ukulele is easier for absolute beginners, while the charango offers richer musical possibilities for Andean and folk styles.
How much does a good charango cost?
A quality beginner charango costs between $100 and $300. Intermediate instruments with solid tops range from $300 to $700. Professional and concert-grade charangos from named luthiers can cost $700 to $2,500 or more. Quality charango strings cost between $10 and $35 per set. The instruments on our list range from budget-friendly options to professional-grade picks.
Conclusion
Finding the best charangos online does not have to be a gamble. The Gosila 10-String Andean Charango stands out as our editor’s choice for its solid spruce top, ox bone nut and saddle, and included case. The Peru Treasure charango offers authentic Peruvian craftsmanship at an accessible price point with Prime shipping.
For string upgrades, the Aquila Nylgut sets remain the gold standard, while the Medina Artigas wound strings deliver premium tone for serious players. Whatever you choose, buy from sellers with buyer protection, verify the materials and construction details, and invest in quality strings that will make any charango sound its best. The best charangos in 2026 are the ones that match your skill level, musical style, and budget, and our guide gives you everything you need to make that choice with confidence.