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With a Takamine 12-string, you’re paying for a finely crafted instrument that offers excellent sound, comfortable playability, and the reliability that professional musicians need.
But here’s where Takamine’s real appeal lies: their 12-string guitars may come at a premium compared to some other brands, but they remain accessible.
With prices ranging from around $800 to $2000, they are indeed an investment, but it’s an investment in quality.
Check out Takamine’s budget brand known as Jasmine Guitars if you are on a tighter budget.
The 10 Best Takamine 12 string Guitars
Let’s set the stage for our exciting lineup. When it comes to 12-string guitars, few names evoke the same respect and admiration as Takamine.
Synonymous with quality craftsmanship, resonant sound, and robust durability, Takamine 12-string guitars have earned their place among the top choices for both budding strummers and seasoned professionals.
But even within this esteemed lineage, certain models stand out as the best of the best. The unique charm of a 12-string guitar lies in its rich, vibrant tonality, and these Takamine 12-string guitars deliver that in spades, each in its own distinctive way.
Whether you’re searching for your first 12-string or looking to upgrade your collection, our list of the best Takamine 12-string guitars is bound to help you make a choice that resonates with your musical goals and preferences.
Takamine GD30CE-12 String Guitar
The Takamine GD30CE-12, a part of the Takamine G series 12-string lineup, is indeed a stage-worthy guitar. It features solid-top construction, a soft Venetian-style cutaway, and an exceptional Takamine electronics system. This Takamine 12-string comes in three colors i.e. Red, Black, and Natural, and is designed for the limelight.
The Takamine GD30CE-12 is designed with a robust spruce top coupled with mahogany on the back and sides, providing deeply pleasing, vibrant acoustics. Its slender mahogany neck, coupled with a 12-inch-radius ovangkol fingerboard. The bridge, also made of ovangkol, augments the sound clarity and sustain, infusing a distinct tonal nuance.
The onboard Takamine TP-4TD preamp system, with a built-in tuner, three-band EQ, and gain controls, offers excellent amplified performance and versatility. I’ve found the nut width of 1.875″ (47.6 mm) to be perfect for my playing style, adding to the overall playability of the Takamine gd30ce-12 string guitar.
When it comes to visual appeal, the GD30CE-12 certainly holds its own. It features an artificial bone nut and split bridge saddle, an ovangkol head cap, a pearloid rosette, and dot inlays.
All of these are topped off with chrome die-cast tuners for a refined appearance.
Specification
- Spruce top with Mahogany on the back and sides
- TP-4TD preamp system, with a built-in tuner
- Split bridge saddle with a nut width of 1.875″
Reason to Buy
Excellent sound quality
The Takamine GD30CE-12 is designed with a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, which provide deep, rich sound. The 12-string configuration adds an extra dimension to the sound, making it perfect for a variety of genres, including folk, rock, and country.
Great playability
The Takamine GD30CE-12 has a slim mahogany neck with a 12-inch radius ovangkol fingerboard, which makes it easy to play and comfortable to hold for long periods. The nut width of 1.875 inches is also ideal for most players.
Versatility
The Takamine GD30CE-12 is a versatile guitar that can be used for both acoustic and amplified performances. The onboard Takamine TP-4TD preamp system provides excellent sound quality and versatility, with a built-in tuner, three-band EQ, and gain controls.
Reason to Avoid
Price
The Takamine GD30CE-12 is a high-quality guitar, but it comes with a high price tag. If you are on a budget, there are other great options available.
Takamine P3DC 12 String Guitar
The Takamine P3DC-12, also commonly referred to as the Takamine P3, is renowned for its rich dreadnought 12-string tone. With its solid cedar top, adorned with X bracing and ivory binding, dark purfling, and an intricately designed concentric-ring rosette with wood marquetry, it is as visually appealing as it is sonically.
The Takamine P3DC-12, also commonly referred to as the Takamine P3, is renowned for its rich dreadnought 12-string tone. With its solid cedar top, adorned with X bracing and ivory binding, dark purfling, and an intricately designed concentric-ring rosette with wood marquetry, it is as visually appealing as it is sonically.
The P3DC-12 continues beyond mere aesthetics. The solid sapele back and sides contribute to a potent low end with ample volume, making it the quintessential dreadnought. The playability is further enhanced by a mahogany neck and a rosewood fingerboard, graced with unique wood “dot-in-dot” inlays.
The Takamine P3DC-12 comes equipped with the highly acclaimed CT4B II preamp system, featuring a three-band EQ, volume control, and a built-in tuner. Additionally, the unique Takamine split-saddle bone bridge ensures flawless intonation and provides excellent acoustic coupling to the top, amplifying the guitar’s resonance.
The instrument is beautifully rounded off with gold tuners with amber buttons and a natural satin finish.
Specification
- Dreadnought cutaway with Solid cedar top
- Solid Sapele back & sides and mahogany neck
- 25.3” scale with 21 frets
Reason to Buy
Beautiful craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal
The Takamine P3DC-12 is beautifully crafted with high-quality materials. It has a natural satin finish and is adorned with intricate details, such as the concentric-ring rosette with wood marquetry and the unique wood “dot-in-dot” inlays.
Excellent sound quality
The Takamine P3DC-12 has a rich dreadnought 12-string tone with a solid cedar top and sapele back and sides. It is also equipped with the highly acclaimed CT4B II preamp system, which provides excellent sound quality and versatility.
Great playability
The Takamine P3DC-12 has a mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard, which makes it easy to play with and comfortable to hold for long periods
Reason to Avoid
Size
Some players find the dreadnought size to be overly big.
Takamine GJ72CE
The Takamine GJ72CE, part of the reputable Takamine G Series 12-string guitars, offers musicians a beautifully designed and thoughtfully engineered instrument. With its jumbo body style, solid spruce top, and flame maple back and sides, the Takamine GJ72CE’s sound is as impressive as its aesthetics.
The sound output is lush and full-bodied, characteristic of a jumbo guitar. The slender mahogany neck and the 12-inch-radius laurel fingerboard of the Takamine GJ72CE, which is neatly bounded, facilitate effortless play. They provide comfort, even during extended periods of playing.
Notably, the Takamine GJ72CE’s advanced onboard electronics, specifically the TK-40D preamp system, ensure user-friendly control over your sound. This system comes equipped with a built-in tuner and a three-band EQ for sound customization. Additional features include a mid-contour switch, notch filter, and EQ bypass switch, making the Takamine GJ72CE 12-string guitar versatile for both studio recording and live performances.
Specification
- Spruce top with Flame Maple on the back and sides
- TK-40D preamp system, with Laurel fingerboard
- Mahogany neck with a nut width of 1.6875″
Reason to Buy
Powerful Sound
The jumbo body style, coupled with a solid spruce top and flame maple back and sides, delivers impressive volume and a robust, resonant sound.
Versatile Electronics
The Takamine TK-40D preamp system is packed with features, including a built-in tuner, three-band EQ, gain controls, mid-contour switch, notch filter, and EQ bypass switch. This comprehensive electronics package allows you to shape and fine-tune your amplified sound to suit various playing styles and venues.
Stunning Aesthetics
The GJ72CE guitar boasts eye-catching cosmetic features like an abalone rosette, abalone “reversed mountain” inlay at the 12th fret, gold die-cast tuners with pearl buttons, and a beautiful gloss finish.
Reason to avoid
Size and Comfort
Jumbo body guitars like the GJ72CE tend to be larger and bulkier than some other acoustic guitar styles. While this size contributes to their powerful sound, it may be less comfortable for players who prefer smaller or more compact instruments.
Takamine EF381DX
The Takamine EF381DX, a notable member of Takamine’s Legacy Series, is a 12-string guitar famous for its exceptional attributes and dependable stage charisma. This model is built upon the well-liked EF381SC, with the addition of “Deluxe” enhancements such as shimmering abalone purfling, an abalone rosette, Gotoh tuners adorned with pearloid buttons, and the brand’s iconic diamond inlays.
This Takamine 12-string legacy guitar features a solid spruce top with maple back and sides, delivering a powerful, articulate sound that’s perfect for live performances. Thanks to the CT4B II electronics, the resonant tonal qualities of the Takamine EF381DX are faithfully reproduced, ensuring a stage sound that’s as striking as the guitar’s aesthetics.
The guitar’s dreadnought cutaway body shape offers ease of playability, while the mahogany neck and rosewood fingerboard contribute to the instrument’s overall comfort. It has a nut width of 46.35mm and a scale length of 644mm, ensuring precise note intonation across all 12 strings. The gloss black finish of the Takamine Legacy Deluxe enhances its elegant design.
Furthermore, the Takamine EF381DX comes with a GC200 case included, providing protection for your investment. Whether you’re a professional musician or an aspiring player, the Takamine EF381DX offers exceptional performance and stunning visual appeal.
Specification
- Solid spruce top with maple back and sides.
- Dreadnought cutaway body with rosewood neck.
- CT-4BII electronics &Gloss black finish
Reason to Buy
Exceptional Build Quality
The Takamine EF381DX is part of the Legacy Series, known for its high-quality craftsmanship. With a solid spruce top, maple back and sides, and Deluxe enhancements like abalone purfling and rosette, this guitar is built to last and offers a visually stunning appearance.
Stage-Ready Electronics
Equipped with CT4B II electronics, this guitar ensures that its rich tonal qualities are faithfully reproduced when amplified.
Stunning visual appeal
The Takamine EF381DX has a gloss black finish and is adorned with abalone purfling, an abalone rosette, and Gotoh tuners with pearloid buttons.
Reason to avoid
Weight
The EF381DX may feel bulky for players accustomed to smaller-sized guitars.
Takamine EF400SC TT
The Takamine EF400SC TT, a 12-string dreadnought guitar, is an exceptional blend of vintage sound and modern features. Leveraging Takamine’s innovative “Thermal Top” technology, this instrument delivers the sought-after tone of a well-played, aged guitar while maintaining the benefits of modern craftsmanship.
The Takamine EF400SC TT boasts a solid thermal spruce top and solid Indian rosewood back and sides. This combination results in a rich, full-bodied sound that is perfect for a wide range of musical styles. The dreadnought cutaway body shape offers robust volume and strong projection while providing easy access to the upper frets.
The guitar’s mahogany neck is slender, making it comfortable to play, especially for those extended practice sessions or performances. The rosewood fingerboard further enhances the playability and overall aesthetic of the ef400sc Takamine.
This guitar incorporates the CT4B II electronics, offering precise control over your amplified sound. With its natural gloss finish, the Takamine EF400SC TT exudes elegance and simplicity. It comes with a nut width of 46mm and a scale length of 644mm, accommodating a wide range of playing styles.
Specification
- Dreadnought cutaway body with a mahogany neck
- Solid thermal spruce top and solid Indian rosewood back and sides
- Nut width of 46mm and a Scale length of 644mm
Reason to Buy
Thermal Top
The EF400SC TT features Takamine’s innovative Thermal Top Technology, which replicates the aging process of vintage guitars. This results in a guitar with a rich, warm, and well-balanced tone right out of the box, similar to that of a well-aged instrument.
Solid Tonewoods
This guitar is constructed with a solid spruce top and solid mahogany back and sides, which contribute to its exceptional sound quality. These tonewoods provide clarity, resonance, and a pronounced projection, making it a joy to play.
Stage-Ready Electronics
Equipped with Takamine’s CT4B II preamp system, the EF400SC TT offers excellent amplified sound. It includes a built-in tuner, three-band EQ, and volume control, allowing you to fine-tune your tone for live performances or recording
Reason to avoid
Price
The Takamine EF400SC TT 12-String Guitar is a high-quality guitar, but it comes with a high price tag. If you are on a budget, there are other great options available.
Takamine JJ325src-12
The Takamine JJ325SRC-12 is a versatile and powerful 12-string acoustic-electric guitar. Its solid spruce top delivers a rich and detailed sound, while the unique ovangkol back and sides contribute to its exceptional sonic flexibility. With the onboard CT4B II preamp and pickup system, which incorporates a tube for thick harmonics, this guitar truly stands out.
Playing the JJ325SRC-12 is a breeze, thanks to its comfortable mahogany neck. The cutaway design allows for easy access to the higher frets, expanding my musical possibilities. Whether I’m performing on stage or recording in the studio, the CT4B II preamp ensures that my guitar’s sound is accurately amplified and captured.
The JJ325SRC-12’s striking red finish adds to its visual appeal. It’s not just a beautiful instrument; it’s a versatile tool that allows me to express myself fully. The 12-string configuration adds depth and richness to my playing, providing a unique sonic experience.
As a guitarist, I appreciate the sonic range and quality that the JJ325SRC-12 offers. Its solid construction, thoughtful design, and impressive electronics make it a reliable and inspiring instrument for my musical journey. Whether I’m strumming chords or fingerpicking intricate melodies, the JJ325SRC-12 delivers an extraordinary sound that captivates both me and my audience.
Specification
- Solid spruce top with ovangkol back and sides
- Mahogany neck & Rosewood fingerboard
- 47.５mm Nut Width & CT4B II electronics
Reason to Buy
John Jorgenson Signature Model
The JJ325SRC is a signature model designed by renowned guitarist John Jorgenson. It reflects his expertise and preferences, making it an attractive choice for fans of his playing style and tone.
Exceptional Build Quality
This guitar boasts high-quality construction with a solid spruce top, solid rosewood back and sides, and a mahogany neck.
Versatility for Live Performances
The notch filter eliminates feedback difficulties, resulting in a smooth and professional experience for both performers and audiences.
Reason to avoid
Not many color choices
Even though the Takamine Red Stain finish is elegant and one-of-a-kind, some players may want more color options to meet their tastes.
Takamine EF381SC
The Takamine EF381SC 12-string acoustic-electric cutaway guitar is a testament to Takamine’s commitment to precision and quality. This handcrafted instrument, built in Takamine’s pro series facility renowned for over five decades of impeccable craftsmanship, is designed for versatile performance.
Starting with a solid spruce top, the EF381SC can articulate sweet mellow passages and strident power chords with equal precision. Complemented by the laminated maple back and sides, the guitar’s tone is beautifully reflected and resonated, delivering a full and balanced sound. With its glossy black finish, this Takamine EF381SC 12-string guitar shines under stage lights, making it as visually appealing as it is sonically powerful.
The guitar’s structure includes a mahogany neck seamlessly connected to the body using an ultra-strong dovetail joint. This design ensures a robust and reliable connection, enhancing the guitar’s resonance and durability. The rosewood fingerboard provides a smooth and responsive playing surface, contributing to the guitar’s superior playability.
The Takamine EF381SC is furnished with the highly praised CT4B II preamp system and the distinct Palathetic under-saddle pickup for amplification. This duo guarantees an unparalleled amplified output, incorporating a three-band EQ, volume adjustment, and an integrated tuner for easy sound personalization and tuning.
The guitar is styled in a classic dreadnought body shape, revered for its robust bass and generous volume. With a nut measurement of 47.5mm and an elegant gloss black finish, the Takamine EF381SC 12-string guitar represents an exceptional option for artists looking for versatility, dependability, and visual allure.
Specification
- Solid Spruce top with laminated maple back and sides.
- Mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard.
- CT4B II electronics with gloss black finish.
Reason to Buy
Stunning visual appeal
The EF381SC is a lovely guitar with a gloss-black finish. The beautiful headstock and cutaway shape make it a fashionable instrument that will look fantastic on stage.
Proven Quality
The EF381SC is part of Takamine’s Legacy Series, known for its high-quality craftsmanship and tonal excellence. Takamine has a strong reputation for producing reliable and well-built guitars.
Great playability
The Takamine EF381SC 12-String Guitar has a slim mahogany neck and rosewood fingerboard, which make it comfortable to play and easy to reach all 12 strings.
Reason to Avoid
Price
While the EF381SC offers exceptional quality and performance, it may be considered relatively expensive by some buyers.
Takamine GD35CE
The Takamine GD35CE 12-string dreadnought cutaway guitar is a stunning instrument that combines bold aesthetics with robust sound. This pearl-white beauty is part of Takamine’s high-value G-Series and is designed to captivate both the eyes and ears of musicians.
With its elegant gloss pearl white finish and black/white/black binding over the body, fingerboard, and headstock, this guitar exudes a sense of sophistication. The gold hardware, pearl dot inlays, and beautiful abalone rosette add further visual appeal, making it a true head-turner.
When it comes to sound, the Takamine GD35CE delivers the signature 12-string dreadnought experience. Its jangly and balanced tone is complemented by an aggressive yet controlled dynamic response. Whether you’re strumming chords or fingerpicking intricate melodies, this guitar ensures that every note rings out with clarity and richness.
Equipped with the legendary TP-3G electronics, the GD35CE makes live performances a breeze. The TP-3G system allows you to effortlessly amplify the guitar’s natural sound, ensuring that your performances sound as great on stage as they do unplugged.
The GD35CE is constructed with a solid spruce top, a Sapele back and sides, and a mahogany neck for a combination of tonal resonance and stability. The laurel fingerboard adds a touch of warmth and smoothness to your playing experience.
This guitar comes with a convenient and sturdy gig bag, providing protection during transport and ensuring that it remains in excellent condition for years to come. Additionally, the Takamine GD35CE is also available in a 6-string version for those who prefer a different string configuration.
Specification
- Dreadnought Cutaway body with Gloss Pearl White finish
- Solid spruce top, a Sapele back and sides
- 644mm scale length, and 47.5mm nut width
Reason to Buy
Affordable 12-String Option
The Takamine GD35CE offers a relatively affordable entry into the world of 12-string guitars, making it accessible to a wide range of musicians who want to explore the unique sound of a 12-string instrument without a significant financial investment.
Solid Top Construction
This guitar features a solid spruce top, a hallmark of quality acoustic guitars. Solid tops tend to produce a rich, resonant, and well-balanced tone, which is crucial for a satisfying 12-string experience.
Excellent sound quality
The Takamine GD35CE 12-String Guitar has a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, which produce a rich, full sound with excellent sustain. The 12-string configuration adds an extra dimension to the sound, making it perfect for a variety of genres, including folk, rock, and country.
Reason to avoid
String Tension
12-string guitars typically have higher string tension compared to 6-string guitars. This can make them slightly more challenging to play, especially for beginners or those not accustomed to the additional tension.
Takamine TSP-158C12
The Takamine TSP158C-12 STR is a 12-string guitar from the Thinline Series, designed to offer a largely acoustic sound with articulated tones. Its arched maple back and sides contribute to its resonant and expressive sound. This guitar is built for comfort and ease on stage, making it ideal for live performances. Equipped with Takamine’s CT3N electronics, it provides seamless amplification and effortless control, ensuring a great sound in any venue.
Featuring a stunning See Thru Red gloss finish, the TSP158C-12 STR is part of a set of matched 6 and 12-string Thinline Series models. The guitar’s FX cutaway body shape offers easy access to the upper frets, allowing for smooth playability and versatility. The solid spruce top enhances the instrument’s projection and responsiveness.
The TSP158C-12 STR offers a comfortable playing experience because of the maple neck. The 47.5mm nut width and 630mm scale length contribute to precise string spacing and a balanced feel across the fretboard.
This Takamine 12-string Thinline guitar is accompanied by the SH100T hardshell case, ensuring protection during transportation and storage. The TSP158C-12 STR is a remarkable instrument that combines outstanding sound, stage-ready electronics, and eye-catching aesthetics, making it an excellent choice for guitarists seeking a high-quality 12-string guitar.
Specification
- FX cutaway body shape with Solid Spruce top
- Arched Maple back and sides
- 630mm scale length and CT-3N electronics
Reason to Buy
Rich, full sound
The solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides produce a warm, resonant sound that is perfect for a variety of genres, including folk, rock, and country.
Comfortable neck and body
The thinline body is lightweight and easy to play, even for extended periods. The neck has a comfortable C-shape profile that is easy to fret.
Versatile features
The TSP158C comes with a variety of features that make it a versatile guitar for players of all levels, including a built-in tuner, a cutaway body, and a Takamine TP-4T preamp with a three-band EQ.
Reason to avoid
Can be tiring to play
12-string guitars can be more tiring to play than 6-string guitars because the strings are thicker. This is because the strings need to be thicker to produce the same amount of volume as a 6-string guitar.
Takamine P6JC-12 Jumbo
The Takamine P6JC-12 Jumbo is a powerful and resonant 12-string guitar from the Pro Series. With its loud and forceful sound, this jumbo cutaway model is designed to deliver maximum volume.
It features a solid spruce top with “X” top bracing for enhanced projection, solid flame maple back and flame maple sides for rich tonal character, and elegant ivory body binding with black and white purfling and a mother-of-pearl rosette for a touch of sophistication.
Built with the performer in mind, the P6JC-12 is equipped with Takamine’s proprietary CTP-3 Cool Tube™ preamp system and Palathetic™ under-saddle pickup. This combination ensures exceptional amplified response and versatility.
The CTP-3 preamp offers a low-voltage tube tone with adjustable brightness and warmth, a three-band EQ with semi-parametric midrange, an auxiliary input, volume control for use with additional pickups, and an onboard chromatic tuner.
The P6JC-12 also features Takamine’s asymmetrical neck profile, providing a comfortable feel and improved playability. The split bone saddle ensures accurate intonation, while the bridge pin positioning optimizes break angle for improved sustain and presence.
Specification
- Jumbo cutaway body shape
- solid spruce top with “X” top bracing
- CoolTube (CTP-3) electronics
Reason to Buy
Exceptional Craftsmanship
The Takamine P6JC is a part of the Pro Series, known for its high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. This guitar is built with precision and care, ensuring long-term durability and tonal excellence.
Premium Tonewoods
With a solid spruce top and solid rosewood back and sides, the P6JC offers a combination of tonewoods that produces a rich, resonant, and well-balanced sound. These premium materials contribute to the guitar’s exceptional acoustic qualities.
Stage-Ready Electronics
Equipped with the CT4B II preamp system, this guitar is ready for live performances or recording. The built-in tuner, three-band EQ, and volume control provide convenient and precise control over your amplified sound.
Reason to Avoid
Few Left-handed Choices
It’s worth mentioning that left-handed players may have difficulty finding left-handed versions of the Takamine P6JC-12 Jumbo.
How much to spend for a 12-string guitar
First and foremost, it’s about what you’re looking for in the instrument. If you’re just starting out, you might not want to spend a fortune. There are numerous affordable 12-string acoustic guitars out there that deliver decent sound and quality. These might not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models like the Takamines, but they can get you started on your musical journey.
On the other hand, if you’re a seasoned guitarist or a professional, you might be more interested in the sound quality, playability, and overall feel of the instrument. In this case, consider brands known for their craftsmanship and sound quality, such as Takamine. Their 12-string acoustic guitars or 12-string acoustic electric guitars are renowned for their exceptional quality and performance.
In terms of actual numbers, beginner 12-string acoustic guitars can start as low as $200-$300, while intermediate guitars might range from $500 to $1000. Professional-level 12-string acoustic guitars, like the high-end Takamine models, can easily surpass $1000, reaching up to $3000 and more. Check out Takamine’s budget brand known as Jasmine Guitars if you are on a budget.
But here’s where Takamine’s real appeal lies: their 12-string acoustic guitars may come at a premium compared to some other brands, but they remain accessible. With prices ranging from around $800 to $2000, they are indeed an investment, but it’s an investment in quality. With a Takamine 12 string, you’re paying for a finely crafted instrument that offers excellent sound, comfortable playability, and the reliability that professional musicians need.
But remember, price doesn’t always equate to value. What matters most is how the guitar feels in your hands and how it sounds to your ears—the connection you have with the instrument. Sometimes, an acoustic 12-string guitar with a moderate price tag can give you the sound and feel you desire.
4 things to notice while buying a 12-string guitars
Playability
This is the primary aspect of any guitar, and it’s especially crucial when it comes to 12-string guitars. The shape and size of the guitar’s neck, the action (the height of the strings from the fretboard), and the guitar’s overall weight all influence its playability.
Lower action tends to make a guitar easier to play because the strings are closer to the fretboard, but it may also result in buzzing if the strings are too close. A good 12-string guitar should offer a balance, maintaining comfortable playability without sacrificing the quality of sound.
Electronics
If you plan on performing or recording, then the electronics of the guitar are of utmost importance. Acoustic-electric 12-string guitars come equipped with preamps and pickups to amplify your sound without losing its natural acoustic qualities.
Look for models that offer versatile control over your tone and volume, and consider features like built-in tuners and EQ adjustments for added convenience and control.
Woods
The type of wood used in the construction of the guitar significantly affects both its sound and durability. Different woods produce different tones; for example, spruce tops are known for their bright, clear tone, while mahogany tends to offer a warmer, darker sound. The wood used in the guitar’s body, neck, and fretboard can each contribute to the guitar’s overall tone, so consider your tonal preferences when choosing.
Strings
The quality and type of strings used on a 12-string guitar can affect both the sound and playability. Lighter strings might be easier to play and produce a bright, vibrant sound, but they might also break more easily. Heavier strings can provide a richer, fuller tone, but they might also be more challenging to play. It’s crucial to find a set of strings that suits your playing style and the sound you’re after.
Preamps used in Takamine 12-string Guitars
Takamine’s range of preamps offers exceptional quality and versatility for acoustic-electric guitars. Each preamp has unique features tailored to different playing styles and preferences:
CTP-3 CoolTube: This onboard tube preamp delivers a rich, full sound with adjustable tube tone ranging from bright to warm. It features precise control over bass, treble, and midrange frequencies, a built-in chromatic tuner, and Mid/High cut switches for use with a second pickup.
CT4B II Preamp: Designed for ease of use and pure tone maintenance, it includes a 3-band graphic EQ with sliders for bass, midrange, and treble, a volume control slider, and a built-in chromatic tuner. The tuner can be calibrated to different frequencies and doubles as a mute switch for silent tuning.
CT4-DX Preamp: Offering ultimate flexibility, this preamp has two channels with a wide range of control options. It features a four-band EQ for the Palathetic under-saddle pickup, two-notch filter controls for feedback reduction, and independent control over each pickup’s two-band EQ and notch filter when used with a second pickup like the Tri-Ax.
TLD-2 Preamp: A simple preamp circuit designed to enhance pickup signals and counteract signal loss over long cables. It maintains signal integrity for a clean, high-quality sound and, when paired with Takamine’s Palathetic pickup, delivers a warm, natural acoustic-electric tone.
For those interested in exploring these innovative preamps further, I recommend visiting Takamine Preamp page for more detailed information and insights.
The Origin of Takamine Guitars
Imagine a small workshop nestled in the picturesque town of Sakashita, Japan, in the year 1962. It’s here that the first Takamine 12 string guitar was lovingly crafted. This place, overshadowed by the towering Mount Takamine, was the starting point for a journey that would revolutionize the world of guitars.
The folks at Takamine didn’t just stick to traditional guitar-making methods. They embraced change, infused innovative technologies, and produced brilliant instruments. This includes their 12-string guitars as well. Each Takamine 12 string guitar carries with it this ethos, setting it apart from other 12-string guitars available.
Fast forward to today, Takamine guitars have come a long way from their humble beginnings. These guitars are now global symbols of superior craftsmanship, played and adored by musicians all around the world. So, when we strum a Takamine 12-string, we’re not just playing an instrument—we’re part of a resonating legacy.
Check out the 12-String Guitar’s History that made their mark in the music industry.
Artists known for playing Takamine 12 string guitars
Playing a Takamine 12 string guitar, like the EF381SC, reminds me of the legendary Glenn Frey from The Eagles. He used this model, and when I hear “Hotel California,” I can’t help but imagine the rich tones of a Takamine guitar echoing in the background.
Then there’s Don Felder, another Eagle, who preferred a 12-string Takamine with a DeArmond pickup. Listening to “Take It Easy,” I imagine him strumming away on his Takamine, bringing the song’s melodies to life.
Bruce Springsteen, affectionately known as “The Boss,” is another artist I associate with Takamine 12 string guitars. Springsteen often chooses a Takamine EF381C 12-string for his acoustic performances. Songs like “Thunder Road” and “The Rising” take on a unique depth and resonance when played on a 12-string Takamine.
In my experience, whether you’re playing an acoustic or an acoustic-electric, Takamine 12 string guitars are a joy to play. They’ve certainly earned their place in the collections of these amazing artists and in mine too.
As someone who plays a Takamine 12 string guitar, I can say firsthand that they’re amazing instruments. They have a great balance of acoustic sound and versatility—perfect for soft tunes or more energetic ones. This is why they’re loved by famous artists and many other guitarists worldwide. There’s just something special about playing a 12-string Takamine that grabs your attention and never lets it go.
Takamine 12-string Guitar FAQ
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