Guitar Type

[Frontera]

Any nylon string guitar will work, but find one that you can get the action down and then add a tap plate. Also the fingerboard width is of importance if you are serious about learning flamenco correctly.

[Peresh]

I own a Guild C3 now. It's a classical but somehow they market it as a Flamenco. Higher action , plays very deep and earthy. Great sound.

I have ordered a Yamaha CG171SF, got on ebay for $299 as I read many good reviews.

A few days ago after the order I went to Sam and Ash and playing it. It was ok( (I wasn't very impressed as my Guild sounds so much better) however when I picked up Cordoba C5, that kiced some serious ass. I couldn't believe the sound coming out of the cordoba but the action was a lot higher. So I'm thinking of sending back the Yamaha and buying the Cordoba. Still deciding.

[Mecachis]

Hi,
I understand your position about trying to find the right guitar.
I would start with finding a teacher or trusted mentor who will guide you to the right instrument.
To make an informed choice, pick someone's brain that is already in the game and has made the mistakes (and hopefully learned from them) you don't want to make. It's really like anything else. Different tools do different jobs and you have to rely on other peoples experience...at first. The time will come when you are called upon to give that same advice.
Happy trails