Best Takamine Guitars in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs

Updated on Oct 26, 2026

Takamine offers a range of acoustic guitars, from dreadnoughts to jumbos, classical nylon-string models, and travel-sized instruments, many with built-in electronics. Based on a comparison of published specifications for every Takamine guitar in our pool, we selected the Pro Series 5 P5DC as the best overall, thanks to its dreadnought cutaway, included case, and professional-grade positioning. None of these instruments were played or tested by our staff; our picks are based solely on the maker's published specs and the seller's listings. Prices on this page are live and read from the store listing.

15 picks from 17 guitars that match this guide with a price we can quote today. Prices below are live, each shown with the time it was read.

Quick list

Which one is right for you?

• For a travel-ready 3/4 acoustic-electric: The GX18CE brings a solid spruce top, a cutaway, and a gig bag into a compact body, making it the easiest Takamine to take on the road. See pick 14
• For a first nylon-string classical: The GC1 is the most affordable classical entry, offering the warm nylon sound and a natural finish for fingerstyle or classical lessons. See pick 12
• For a do-it-all stage dreadnought: The Pro Series 5 P5DC is the most complete take-along dreadnought with a cutaway, pickup, and case, covering live and studio work. See pick 1
• For a left-handed player who wants nylon: The left-handed GC1 is one of the few nylon-string classical models built for lefties, keeping the same simple design as the standard GC1. See pick 13

All 15 picks in detail

1 Best overall

Takamine Pro Series 5 P5DC Dreadnought Body Acoustic Electric Guitar

Type

Acoustic-electric

$2,399.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)

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This Pro Series 5 dreadnought cutaway is the most complete instrument on the list: it combines the classic dreadnought projection with an onboard acoustic-electric system and ships with a case. Compared with the other professional models, it offers a familiar body shape and a less complicated feature set, making it the best one-guitar choice for players who want a serious stage and studio instrument.

Pros

• Dreadnought cutaway body
• Acoustic-electric system
• Includes a case
• Professional-grade Takamine Pro Series construction

Cons

• Premium price point
• Cutaway may slightly reduce lower-bout volume compared with a non-cutaway dreadnought

Good fit if

• Players who want a do-everything acoustic-electric for gigging and recording
• Those who prefer the punch and projection of a dreadnought with easier upper-fret access

Skip if

• You want a 12-string or a nylon-string guitar
• You are looking for a lighter, smaller-bodied or travel-friendly instrument

Verdict: The Pro Series 5 P5DC is the most balanced and versatile professional Takamine in this list.

2 Best for stage

Takamine TSF40C NEX Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Type

Acoustic-electric

$2,099.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)

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The TSF40C uses Takamine's NEX body, a compact auditorium-style shape designed for stage comfort while still projecting well with an onboard preamp. It is one of the few models here with a NEX shape, giving it a different tonal and handling character than the dreadnoughts and jumbos.

Pros

• NEX body shape for balanced tone
• Acoustic-electric with onboard controls
• Lighter body size than dreadnoughts
• Cutaway for upper-fret access

Cons

• Not a 12-string or classical model
• NEX body may have less bass than a dreadnought or jumbo

Good fit if

• Live performers who want a comfortable, stage-friendly shape
• Players who prefer a balanced tone across all six strings

Skip if

• You want the loud, booming bass of a dreadnought or jumbo
• You need a built-in tuner (not stated in the listing)

Verdict: The TSF40C is the best NEX-bodied option for stage players who want a compact yet versatile acoustic-electric.

3 Best pro studio

Takamine JP7NC Acoustic-electric Guitar

Type

Acoustic-electric

$3,499.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)

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The JP7NC sits at the top of Takamine's acoustic-electric lineup alongside its sibling JP7DC. It offers a natural finish and a solid professional platform, likely built with higher-grade tonewoods, though the listing does not specify the wood. It pairs with the other professional models in terms of price and positioning, making it a serious studio or main-stage choice.

Pros

• Professional Takamine acoustic-electric
• Natural finish
• Premium catalog position
• Comes in natural finish

Cons

• Price is the highest in this list
• Listing does not state a cutaway, so upper-fret access may be limited

Good fit if

• Players who want a top-tier Takamine for recording and performance
• Those who prefer a natural, traditional look

Skip if

• You are on a budget or want a 12-string
• You need a cutaway or a smaller body

Verdict: The JP7NC is the premium standard for players who want Takamine's highest level of acoustic-electric craftsmanship.

4 Best pro cutaway

Takamine Pro JP7DC Acoustic-electric Guitar

Type

Acoustic-electric

$3,499.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)

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The Pro JP7DC is the cutaway version of the JP7 series, adding easier access to the upper frets. It shares the same premium positioning as the JP7NC, but its cutaway makes it a more practical choice for lead lines and high-position playing. Compared with the JP7NC, the only meaningful spec difference in the listing is the cutaway designation.

Pros

• Cutaway body for upper-fret access
• Professional acoustic-electric
• Natural finish
• Top-tier Takamine positioning

Cons

• Price matches the highest tier
• Listing does not specify tonewood or pickup details

Good fit if

• Lead players who need upper-fret access
• Performers who want a flagship Takamine with a cutaway

Skip if

• You prefer a non-cutaway for maximum lower-bout resonance
• You want a more affordable option

Verdict: The Pro JP7DC is the cutaway flagship for players who need the top end of the Takamine catalog.

5 Best dreadnought cutaway

Takamine GD51CE-NAT Dreadnought Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Type

Acoustic-electric

$699.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)

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The GD51CE is a straight-ahead dreadnought cutaway with an acoustic-electric system and a natural finish. It sits below the Pro Series in price but still offers the classic Takamine G-series platform, making it one of the most balanced cutaway dreadnoughts in the lineup.

Pros

• Dreadnought cutaway body
• Acoustic-electric system
• Natural finish
• G-series construction

Cons

• Not a 12-string or classical model
• The listing does not state tonewood specifications

Good fit if

• Players who want a traditional dreadnought with a cutaway and pickup
• Those looking for a mid-level Takamine with stage-ready features

Skip if

• You need a more compact body shape
• You want a 12-string or nylon-string model

Verdict: The GD51CE is the best straightforward cutaway dreadnought for players who want Takamine's reliable G-series.

6 Best for beginners

Takamine G-series GD11MCE Dreadnought Acoustic-electric Guitar

Type

Acoustic-electric

$494.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)

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The GD11MCE is the entry-level dreadnought acoustic-electric in this pool, offering the same body style as larger G-series models with an onboard preamp. It is a simple, no-frills guitar that gives beginners the basics without the complexity of a 12-string or a classical setup.

Pros

• Dreadnought body for full sound
• Acoustic-electric system
• Entry-level G-series price point
• Natural finish

Cons

• No cutaway
• No 12-string or nylon option
• Lower-end G-series features

Good fit if

• First-time acoustic-electric buyers
• Players who want a dependable dreadnought without extra features

Skip if

• You want a cutaway or a 12-string
• You are looking for a premium or pro model

Verdict: The GD11MCE is the most approachable dreadnought acoustic-electric in Takamine's G-series.

7 Best for acoustic purists

Takamine GD20-NS

$449.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)

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The GD20-NS is a pure acoustic dreadnought with a natural satin finish, offering no electronics and no cutaway. It is the simplest guitar in the Takamine lineup, designed for players who want a traditional, unplugged playing experience without extra features.

Pros

• Natural satin finish
• Dreadnought body
• No electronics for a pure acoustic tone
• Simple G-series construction

Cons

• Specs not stated by the seller
• No cutaway
• No pickup

Good fit if

• Players who prefer a purely acoustic instrument
• Those who want a straightforward dreadnought without added electronics

Skip if

• You need to plug in or record directly
• You want a cutaway for upper-fret access

Verdict: The GD20-NS is the best choice for players who want a no-frills, traditional dreadnought.

8 Best jumbo 12-string

Takamine GJ72CE-12BSB Gloss Brown Sunburst Jumbo 12 String Acoustic

Type

Acoustic-electric

Strings

12

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This jumbo 12-string acoustic-electric stands out for its large body, which is ideal for projecting the rich chorus of doubled strings. It is the only jumbo in this list and one of two 12-string models with a cutaway, giving it a different voice and volume than the smaller-bodied 12-strings.

Pros

• Jumbo body for maximum volume and bass
• 12-string setup
• Acoustic-electric
• Cutaway for upper-fret access

Cons

• Jumbo body is large and may be less comfortable for smaller players
• 12-string strings add more tension and require stronger fingers

Good fit if

• Players who want a powerful 12-string sound for strumming
• Performers who need a loud, stage-ready 12-string

Skip if

• You prefer a smaller-body instrument
• You want a 6-string guitar

Verdict: The GJ72CE is the biggest and boldest 12-string on this list, perfect for players who want a booming, jumbo-stage presence.

9 Best premium 12-string

Takamine GD-37CE PW 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar

Type

Acoustic-electric

Strings

12

$1,075.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)

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The GD-37CE PW is the highest-positioned 12-string in this selection, combining a pearl white finish with an acoustic-electric system. It shares the 12-string format with the GD30CE but adds a higher level of fit and finish in the G-series, making it the premium choice among the 12-strings here.

Pros

• 12-string setup
• Acoustic-electric system
• Pearl white finish
• Premium G-series 12-string

Cons

• No cutaway (not stated)
• Pearl white finish may show wear more easily

Good fit if

• Players who want a distinctive-looking 12-string
• Those who want a high-end G-series 12-string without going to the jumbo

Skip if

• You need a cutaway for upper-fret lead work
• You prefer the darker, sunburst look of the jumbo

Verdict: The GD-37CE is the best-looking and most comfortable premium 12-string in this list.

10 Best 12-string value

Takamine GD30CE-12NAT Dreadnought 12-String Cutaway Acoustic-Electric

Type

Acoustic-electric

Strings

12

$749.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)

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The GD30CE-12NAT is the only dreadnought 12-string with a cutaway in this pool, giving you the classic 12-string voice with easier access to higher frets. It pairs that practical feature with an acoustic-electric system, making it the most versatile 12-string under the premium and jumbo models.

Pros

• 12-string dreadnought with cutaway
• Acoustic-electric system
• Dreadnought body for projection
• Natural finish

Cons

• 12-string tension may be high for some players
• No jumbo-size body for maximum bass

Good fit if

• Players who want a 12-string that can still handle lead lines
• Those who need a stage-ready 12-string without the jumbo size

Skip if

• You want the booming bass of a jumbo 12-string
• You prefer a classical or 6-string

Verdict: The GD30CE-12NAT is the best all-around 12-string for players who want a cutaway and electronics.

11 Best classical upgrade

Takamine GC5-NAT Classical Guitar

Type

Classical or nylon

$499.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)

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The GC5 is a classical guitar with a natural finish, positioned above the entry-level GC1. It offers the warm nylon-string sound characteristic of classical guitars, and its higher G-series build gives it more projection and detail than the GC1 for a relatively small step up in the lineup.

Pros

• Classical nylon-string body
• Natural finish
• Higher-tier G-series classical
• Traditional 12th-fret neck joint (classical design)

Cons

• No electronics
• No cutaway
• Nylon strings are not for steel-string players

Good fit if

• Fingerstyle and classical players seeking a step up from an entry classical
• Players who want a dedicated nylon-string instrument

Skip if

• You need an acoustic-electric pickup
• You want a steel-string acoustic

Verdict: The GC5 is the best intermediate classical guitar in this catalog.

12 Best classical entry

Takamine GC1 NAT Classical Acoustic Guitar

Type

Classical or nylon

$349.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)

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The GC1 is the most affordable classical guitar here, yet it offers the same fundamental nylon-string voice and natural finish as the GC5. It is the starting point for anyone wanting to explore classical or fingerstyle playing without moving to a steel-string instrument.

Pros

• Classical nylon-string design
• Entry-level pricing
• Natural finish
• Lighter string tension than steel-string guitars

Cons

• No electronics
• No cutaway
• Basic G-series entry-level features

Good fit if

• Budget-conscious classical beginners
• Players who want a spare nylon-string for practice

Skip if

• You need a pickup for live performance
• You want a steel-string acoustic

Verdict: The GC1 is the most accessible classical guitar in Takamine's lineup.

13 Best left-handed nylon

Takamine GC1 Nylon-String Left-Handed Acoustic Guitar

Type

Classical or nylon

Left-handed

Yes

$429.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)

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This GC1 is a left-handed version of the entry classical model, making it one of the few nylon-string guitars in the pool oriented for left-handed players. It shares the GC1's simple classical build and natural finish, offering lefties an affordable way to play nylon-string.

Pros

• Left-handed orientation
• Classical nylon-string body
• Natural finish
• Entry-level pricing

Cons

• No electronics
• No cutaway
• Limited to classical/nylon tone

Good fit if

• Left-handed classical guitarists
• Left-handed players wanting to try nylon strings

Skip if

• Right-handed players
• Those who need a steel-string or an acoustic-electric

Verdict: The GC1 left-handed is the only nylon-string option aimed at left-handed players in this selection.

14 Best travel guitar

Takamine GX18CE Solid Spruce 3/4 Size Taka-mini Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Type

Acoustic-electric

Size

3/4 or 7/8 size

Travel or mini

Yes

Solid top

Yes

$599.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)

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The GX18CE is a 3/4-size Taka-mini acoustic-electric with a solid spruce top, designed for travel and small hands. It is the only travel-sized model in the pool and the only one with a solid top, a notable feature for its compact footprint. It includes a gig bag, making it a ready-to-go travel companion.

Pros

• 3/4-size body
• Solid spruce top
• Acoustic-electric system
• Includes a gig bag

Cons

• Smaller body means less volume and bass than full-size guitars
• 3/4 scale may feel cramped for players with large hands

Good fit if

• Travelers and players with small hands
• Anyone who needs a portable acoustic-electric with a pickup

Skip if

• You want a full-size dreadnought tone
• You prefer a larger body for strumming projection

Verdict: The GX18CE is the best travel-friendly Takamine, offering a solid top and electronics in a compact body.

15 Best for fingerstyle

Takamine GN77KCE

$749.95 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)

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The GN77KCE is a NEX-shaped acoustic-electric with a cutaway, and its K designation suggests koa wood construction, though the listing does not specify the tonewood. Its compact NEX body and cutaway make it well suited for fingerstyle players who need a balanced, articulate voice with easy upper-fret access.

Pros

• NEX body shape for balanced tone
• Cutaway for upper-fret access
• Acoustic-electric system
• Compact stage-friendly size

Cons

• Listing does not state tonewood specifications
• No 12-string or classical option

Good fit if

• Fingerstyle players seeking a versatile acoustic-electric
• Performers who want a smaller-bodied Takamine

Skip if

• You want a dreadnought's bass response
• You need a 12-string or classical instrument

Verdict: The GN77KCE is the best fingerstyle-oriented NEX with a cutaway in this selection.

Specs compared

How we chose these

We started with a pool of 16 Takamine guitars currently listed on the site. We removed one near-duplicate configuration (the black version of the GD30CE-12, leaving the natural version) to avoid redundant picks, resulting in 15 distinct instruments. We then grouped them by body style (dreadnought, jumbo, NEX, classical, travel), string count (6 or 12), and whether the seller lists an acoustic-electric system. No guitar on this page was played, tested, or reviewed by our staff, so every award is based on the maker's published specifications and our comparison of those specs across the pool.

What to look for

Body shape: dreadnought, jumbo, NEX, or classical?

The body shape sets the guitar's volume, tonal balance, and playing comfort. Dreadnoughts are the most common, offering a loud, projective tone with strong bass, which suits strumming, flatpicking, and playing with others. Jumbos are even larger, with a wider low end and more percussive sound, ideal for players who want maximum volume and low-end presence. NEX bodies (like the TSF40C and GN77KCE) are a Takamine design that splits the difference, providing balanced tone across all strings with a smaller waist, which many find comfortable for long sessions and fingerstyle work. Classical guitars feature a wider, flat neck and nylon strings, producing a warm, mellow voice that is easier on the fingers and well suited to fingerstyle, flamenco, or classical repertoire.

6-string vs. 12-string: which is right for you?

Standard 6-string guitars are the default choice for most players, offering a balanced, familiar sound across all genres. They are easier to fret, tune, and maintain, and the vast majority of acoustic music is written for them. 12-string guitars double each course, adding a shimmering, chorus-like depth that can fill out a mix or produce a distinctive, jangly sound. The trade-off is increased string tension, which makes them harder to press down and requires a stronger left hand, and they are more sensitive to changes in humidity and setup. If you are new to the instrument, a 6-string is generally the better first choice. If you are an experienced player looking for a specific texture, the 12-string models in this guide offer a reliable way to get that sound.

Acoustic-electric vs. pure acoustic: what do you need?

An acoustic-electric guitar includes a built-in pickup and preamp, allowing you to plug directly into an amplifier, PA system, or recording interface. This is essential if you play live, record at home, or want to use effects or a tuner. The electronics system also typically includes controls like volume and tone, and some models add a built-in tuner or phase switch to help with feedback. Purely acoustic guitars are often lighter, have fewer components that can fail, and can sound just as good unplugged, but they require an external mic or pickup if you need to amplify them. In this list, most picks are acoustic-electric, reflecting that many Takamine buyers plan to perform or record. If you never plan to plug in, a purely acoustic model like the GC1 or GC5 saves you from paying for electronics you won't use.

Tonewoods and construction: what to look for

The soundboard, or top, is the most important tonewood on an acoustic guitar. Spruce is the most common choice for its bright, dynamic response and projection, while mahogany and koa tops offer a warmer, drier voice with more midrange focus. Solid tops, as seen on the GX18CE, generally age better and produce a richer tone over time compared with laminated tops, but they also cost more and require more careful humidity control. The back and sides influence resonance and sustain: rosewood produces a deep, complex sound with rich overtones, while mahogany keeps the tone clear and cutting. Since the listings in this pool often do not specify exact woods, we have omitted wood details where they are not stated. When in doubt, a solid spruce top over mahogany back and sides is a proven, versatile combination that works for most styles.

Cutaways and body size: playability and comfort

A cutaway is a scoop in the upper bout that gives you easier access to the higher frets, which can be important for lead lines or chords that venture above the 12th fret. The trade-off is a slight reduction in volume and bass response compared with a non-cutaway of the same shape, though many players find the difference negligible. Body size also affects comfort: larger dreadnoughts and jumbos may be harder for smaller-framed players to handle, while compact NEX or 3/4-size instruments like the GX18CE are lighter and easier to hold, making them good choices for travel, small hands, or players with shoulder or back issues. Test the feel if you can, but if you cannot, consider your height, arm length, and how long you typically play in one session.

Special considerations: left-handed, travel, and classical

This pool includes a left-handed GC1, which is essential for left-handed players who want a nylon-string classical guitar. Left-handed options are scarce in the acoustic world, so having a dedicated model is a significant advantage. Travel guitars like the GX18CE are smaller and often come with a gig bag, making them easy to carry on flights or road trips, but they sacrifice some low-end and volume compared with full-size instruments. Classical guitars with nylon strings are a separate category from steel-string acoustics: they have a wider neck, tighter string spacing, and a softer, more mellow voice. They are ideal for fingerstyle, bossa nova, flamenco, and classical repertoire, but they will not have the projection or bright attack of a steel-string dreadnought. Choose based on the style of music you play and your physical needs.

Questions

What is the difference between a Takamine G-series and Pro Series guitar?

The G-series includes Takamine's entry-level and mid-range models, known for solid value, laminated or solid tops depending on model, and reliable acoustic-electric pickups. The Pro Series is a step up, built with higher-grade tonewoods, premium hardware, and more refined electronics, and it targets professional players who need consistent tone and durability on stage or in the studio. In this guide, the Pro Series 5 P5DC and the JP7NC/JP7DC are the Pro Series models, and they come with a higher price tag.

Are Takamine guitars good for beginners?

Yes, Takamine's G-series models, like the GD11MCE, are excellent for beginners because they offer playable necks, a balanced dreadnought sound, and many come with built-in electronics, which are useful for practice or when your skills progress to playing live. The entry-level price point also makes them an accessible first guitar. However, if you prefer a smaller body or have small hands, consider the 3/4-size GX18CE or a classical model like the GC1.

Can I use a Takamine 12-string for standard tuning?

Yes, Takamine 12-string guitars are designed for standard E tuning, though the extra string tension can make them feel stiffer than a 6-string. You can play all the same chords and songs, but you will notice the richer, octave-doubled sound. Some players opt to tune down a half-step or full step to reduce tension and make playability easier, but the guitar is built to handle standard tuning. Just be sure to use the appropriate string gauges and keep the guitar properly humidified to avoid warping.

How do Takamine's acoustic-electric pickups work?

Takamine uses a variety of pickup systems, typically a piezo undersaddle pickup that senses string vibration and converts it to an audio signal. Many models include a preamp with volume and tone controls, and higher-end systems add a built-in chromatic tuner, a phase switch to minimize feedback, or even an internal condenser microphone for a more natural sound. When you plug into an amp or PA, you get a clean, amplified tone that retains the guitar's character. The specific electronics vary by model, so check the listing for details.

What is the best Takamine for fingerstyle playing?

For fingerstyle, a NEX body guitar like the GN77KCE or TSF40C is often recommended because the compact, balanced shape allows each note to ring clearly with even response across the strings. The cutaway version, GN77KCE, also offers easier access to high frets for soloing. If you prefer a nylon-string classical guitar for fingerstyle, the GC5 is a solid choice, as its warm, mellow tone and softer string tension suit delicate playing.

Do all Takamine guitars come with a case?

No, only certain models, particularly higher-end ones, include a case. In this list, the Pro Series 5 P5DC explicitly includes a case. Many other models, such as the GX18CE, come with a gig bag, while others may not include any case. It is always best to check the listing's included accessories. For cheaper models, you will likely need to purchase a separate case or gig bag to protect your guitar.

Update history

• 2026-10-07: First published.

Sources

• Body shape guide
• Tonewood guide
• Electronics guide
• Guitar strings guide