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Are you looking for a classical guitar that’s beautiful and amazing? Then check out the Takamine GC5!
This guitar is made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, and it produces a rich, warm sound that’s perfect for classical music, flamenco, and other genres. Let’s take a look at what the Takamine GC5 offers!
Don’t forget to check out another famous Takamine F400s Guitar

Guitar Top | Solid Spruce |
Back | Black Walnut |
Sides | Black Walnut |
Neck | Mahogany |
Fingerboard | Laurel |
Nut Width | 2″ (50.8 mm) |
Finish | Natural |
Fretboard Radius | Flat |
Bridge Type | Fixed |
Neck Shape | C Shape |
Number of Frets | 19 |
Electronics | N/A |
The Legacy of Takamine Guitars
Takamine guitars are particularly well-known for their use of premium materials and attention to detail in construction, and the Takamine GC5 is no exception. The company was created to make classical guitars, after all.
Over the years, Takamine has grown to be favored by many famous musicians, including Bruce Springsteen, Garth Brooks, Jon Bon Jovi, and Kenny Chesney. Takamine was the first guitar manufacturer to introduce a preamp with built-in EQ and tuner in the early 1980s. This innovation paved the way for modern acoustic-electric guitars.
This innovation paved the way for modern acoustic-electric guitars. Check out our list of other budget classical guitars.
Excellent Design and Build
One of the standout features of the Takamine GC5 is its construction. The guitar is crafted using fine materials, including a solid spruce top, rosewood back, and sides. The solid spruce top provides a bright, articulate sound, while the rosewood back and sides offer a warm, rich tone. This combination of materials ensures that the GC5 produces a vibrant and resonant sound.
The GC5 also boasts some impressive design features that make it a joy to play. The guitar’s neck is made from mahogany, which is both strong and lightweight, providing a comfortable playing experience.
The fretboard is also made from rosewood, known for its smooth and responsive feel under the fingers.
The Takamine GC5’s neck is fast and comfortable, making it easy to play even for extended periods. The dovetail neck joint ensures enhanced wood-to-wood contact, improving resonance and outstanding structural stability.
Overall, the build is well-suited for a variety of playing styles. The GC5’s construction is top-notch, with excellent attention to detail and quality control.
Is GC5 Playability?
Takamine GC5 is very easy to play. The guitar has a slim, comfortable neck that is easy to navigate, even for players with smaller hands. The fretboard is rosewood with a flat radius, allowing smooth and easy fingerstyle playing.
The GC5’s action is set at a comfortable height, balancing playability and tone. The guitar’s nylon strings make it more comfortable to play for long periods, as they are easier on the fingers than steel strings.
How is The Tonality of GC5
As expected from the dreadnought body, the Takamine GC5’s sound is booming. It has a rich, resonant tone well-suited for classical and fingerstyle playing.
The cedar top provides a warm and responsive sound well-suited for solo playing and intimate settings. The rosewood back and sides provide a well-rounded tone equally well-suited for ensemble playing and accompaniment. The matured wood boosts the acoustics.
The Downsides
One potential downside of the Takamine GC5 is its lack of built-in electronics. While the guitar is designed primarily for acoustic playing, some players may want the option to amplify their sound. However, the lack of built-in electronics is not necessarily a deal-breaker, as many aftermarket pickups and microphone systems can be easily installed.
There are no locking tuners, so intense playing might detune the guitar. The side and back woods are laminated, providing a lesser sound depth than solid wood.
Check out the most accurate tuners here.
Another potential downside of the GC5 is its price. While the guitar is not the most expensive classical guitar on the market, it is still a significant investment for most players. However, the GC5’s excellent build quality and sound make it a worthwhile investment for serious musicians looking for a high-quality instrument that lasts years.
In conclusion
The Takamine GC5 is an excellent classical guitar that blends traditional design and modern features. The guitar’s construction is top-notch, with exceptional attention to detail and quality control. Its playability is excellent, with a slim, comfortable neck and well-set action.
While the lack of built-in electronics and the price may be potential drawbacks for some players, the GC5’s overall quality and sound make it an excellent choice for serious musicians looking for a high-quality classical guitar.
Pros & Cons of Takamine GC5
Pros
Sound: The Takamine GC5 has a warm, mellow sound perfect for classical, jazz, and folk music. The spruce top gives the guitar a clear sound, while the black walnut back and sides add warmth and richness.
Playability: The GC5 is very comfortable, with a low action and a smooth neck. The guitar is also well-balanced, so it won’t cause neck fatigue.
Price: The Takamine GC5 is a very affordable guitar, especially considering its quality. It is an excellent option for beginners and intermediate players looking for a good-sounding, well-made guitar.
Cons
Electronics: The GC5 does not come with any electronics, so it is unsuitable for amplified performances.
FAQs of Takamine GC5
The Takamine GC5 does not come with a case, but Takamine does offer a variety of cases that are compatible with the GC5.
The best way to clean the Takamine GC5 is to use a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish of the guitar.
It is generally recommended that you change the strings on your guitar every 3-6 months or more frequently if you play the guitar often.
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