The Complete Takamine Guitar Price Guide 2026: Japanese Acoustic-Electric Excellence

Last updated: January 2026

When Bruce Springsteen needed an acoustic guitar that could handle 50,000-person stadiums night after night, he chose Takamine. When Glenn Frey crafted the Eagles' acoustic sound, Takamine was on his lap. This isn't coincidence—it's the result of six decades of Japanese engineering focused on one mission: building the world's finest acoustic-electric guitars.

Takamine Guitars was born in 1962 at the foot of Mount Takamine in Japan's Gifu Prefecture. From those humble beginnings, the company revolutionized how acoustic guitars are amplified, developing the Palathetic™ pickup in 1978 and continuing to innovate with technologies like the Cool Tube® preamp. This guide breaks down Takamine pricing across their entire lineup, from affordable G Series to handcrafted Pro Series masterpieces.

Takamine Guitar Market Overview 2026

Takamine dominates the professional acoustic-electric market, known for exceptional reliability and amplified tone quality.

Key Market Statistics:

• Average Used Takamine Price: $620 (up 3% from 2025)
• Active Listings: Approximately 2,800 guitars currently for sale
• Monthly Sales Volume: Around 750 guitars sold per month
• Price Range: $200 (used entry G Series) to $4,000 (new Limited Edition)

The market divides between Japan-made Pro Series (premium values, strong retention) and the accessible G Series (excellent value proposition). Limited Edition models from their annual releases command collector premiums.

Understanding Takamine's Innovation Legacy

The Acoustic-Electric Pioneer

Takamine didn't just make acoustic-electric guitars—they invented the modern category:

Palathetic™ Pickup System (1978):

• Six separate, fully shielded piezo transducers—one per string
• Eliminates crosstalk between strings
• Balanced output across all frequencies
• Reduces feedback at high volumes
• Still the foundation of Takamine's amplified sound

Preamp Evolution:

• 1988: Parametric EQ preamp introduced
• 1989: External battery box system for easy maintenance
• 2004: Cool Tube® CTP-1—first onboard tube preamp for acoustic guitars
• Current: CT4-DX with studio-quality EQ and integrated tuner

Why Professionals Choose Takamine

1. Reliability: Decades of touring prove Takamine's durability
2. Consistent Amplified Tone: Night after night, venue after venue
3. Low Feedback: Palathetic system minimizes unwanted resonance
4. Japanese Craftsmanship: Meticulous attention to detail
5. Player-Focused Design: Cutaways, comfortable necks, quality fretwork

Pro Series Pricing: $1,400-$3,000

Japan-made instruments representing Takamine's finest craftsmanship.

Pro Series 7 ($2,500-$3,000)

Specifications:

• Top: Solid Sitka spruce
• Back/Sides: Solid rosewood
• Fingerboard: 15"-radius ebony with abalone "snowflake" inlays
• Binding: Flame maple body and neck
• Saddle: Split bone
• Tuners: Gold with pearl buttons
• Electronics: CT4-DX preamp

Pro Series 6 ($2,200-$2,800)

Specifications:

• Top: Solid Sitka spruce
• Back/Sides: Solid flame maple
• Fingerboard: 12"-radius ebony with mother-of-pearl snowflake inlays
• Saddle: Split bone
• Tuners: Gold with pearl buttons
• Electronics: CT4-DX preamp

Pro Series 5 ($1,800-$2,200)

Specifications:

• Top: Solid Sitka spruce
• Back/Sides: Solid rosewood
• Fingerboard: 12"-radius rosewood with abalone "dot-in-dot" inlays
• Saddle: Split bone
• Tuners: Gold
• Electronics: CT4-DX preamp

Pro Series 4 ($1,600-$2,000)

Specifications:

• Top: Solid Sitka spruce
• Back/Sides: Solid sapele
• Fingerboard: 12"-radius rosewood with ivory binding
• Bridge: Pinless with split bone saddle
• Tuners: Gold with amber buttons
• Electronics: CTF-2N preamp

Pro Series 3 ($1,400-$1,800)

Specifications:

• Top: Solid western cedar with hand-scalloped X bracing
• Body: Ivory binding with concentric-ring rosettes
• Fingerboard: Wood "dot-in-dot" inlays
• Tuners: Gold with amber buttons
• Electronics: CT4B II preamp

EF341SC (~$1,999)

Bruce Springsteen's legendary choice:

• Top: Solid cedar
• Back/Sides: Maple
• Cutaway design for upper fret access
• Black finish
• Stage-proven reliability

Used Pro Series Values:

• Pro Series 7: $1,500-$2,200
• Pro Series 5-6: $1,200-$1,800
• Pro Series 3-4: $900-$1,400
• EF341SC: $1,000-$1,900

Limited Edition Series Pricing: $2,500-$3,500+

Annual collectible releases with unique artistic designs:

LTD2025 (~$3,199)

"Antique Evergreen" Theme:

• Body: OM cutaway
• Top: Solid Engelmann spruce
• Back/Sides: Solid Hawaiian koa
• Fingerboard: Ebony with brass position marks (designed to age)
• Binding: Tortoise shell-colored
• Electronics: CTF-2N preamp
• Finish: Antique Evergreen Gloss

LTD2024 "Solar System"

Space-Themed Design:

• Body: NEX cutaway
• Top: Solid spruce
• Back/Sides: Rosewood
• Fingerboard: Ebony with planetary inlays (8 planets)
• Special: Earth distinguished by Sun orbit; Sun at 12th fret
• Electronics: CTF-2N preamp
• Finish: Penumbra Blue

LTD2020 "Peace"

Dove Motif Design:

• Body: Concert
• Top: Solid spruce
• Back/Sides: Ovangkol
• Fingerboard: Ebony with olive branch and dove inlays
• Inlay Materials: Multi-colored stone and shell
• Electronics: CT4-DX preamp
• Finish: Green Tea Gloss

Limited Edition Collectibility

Production Numbers:

• LTD87: 400 units
• LTD2000: 1,700 units (including 6 left-handed)
• Modern editions: Typically 500-1,000 units

Investment Notes:

• Early LTD models (1987-2000) command premiums
• Complete documentation increases value
• Original case essential for collectibility
• Condition paramount—these are art pieces

G-90 Series Pricing: $800-$900

Premium G Series guitars approaching Pro Series quality:

GN93CE NAT (~$899)

Specifications:

• Body: NEX (small jumbo)
• Top: Solid Sitka spruce
• Back: Special three-piece construction
• Sides: Rosewood laminate
• Electronics: TK-40D preamp
• Binding: Cream with abalone rosette

GD93CE (~$899)

Specifications:

• Body: Dreadnought
• Top: Solid Sitka spruce
• Back: Special three-piece construction
• Electronics: TK-40D preamp
• Binding: Premium appointments

GJ72CE NAT (~$829)

Specifications:

• Body: Jumbo cutaway
• Top: Solid Sitka spruce
• Back/Sides: Rosewood laminate
• Electronics: TK-40D preamp
• Ideal for: Players wanting jumbo projection

Used G-90 Series: $500-$700 (excellent condition)

G-70/50 Series Pricing: $550-$1,100

Mid-range solid top guitars with upgraded features:

G-70 Series ($650-$800)

GN75CE:

• NEX body style
• Solid spruce top
• Upgraded electronics
• Stylish appointments

GD71CE:

• Dreadnought body
• Solid spruce top
• Black walnut back/sides option

G-50 Series ($550-$700)

GD51CE:

• Dreadnought body
• Solid spruce top
• Black walnut back/sides
• Deluxe appointments

GD37CE 12-String (~$1,099):

• 12-string dreadnought
• Solid spruce top
• Pearl white finish available
• Extended range for rhythm players

Used G-70/50 Series: $350-$550 (excellent condition)

G-30/20/10 Series Pricing: $300-$550

Entry to intermediate solid top models:

G-30 Series ($450-$550)

GD30CE:

• Dreadnought body
• Solid Sitka spruce top
• Mahogany back/sides
• TP-4TD preamp
• Best value solid top Takamine

G-20 Series ($400-$500)

GN20CE:

• NEX body
• Solid cedar top (warmer tone)
• Mahogany back/sides
• TP-4TD preamp

G-10 Series ($300-$400)

GD10CE:

• Dreadnought body
• Solid spruce top
• Sapele back/sides
• TP-4T preamp
• Entry point for solid top quality

Used G-30/20/10 Series: $200-$400 (excellent condition)

Vintage Takamine Valuation Guide

1970s-1980s Japan-Made Values

F Series (Steel String):

• F-120: $200-$400
• F-340: $300-$500
• F-360: $400-$600
• F-400: $500-$800
• Higher F numbers indicate better appointments

N Series (Classical):

• No. 5-8: $500-$1,500
• No. 10-15: $1,500-$5,000
• No. 15 with Brazilian rosewood: Up to $15,000+
• Hirade-branded models command premiums

Historical Note: In the 1970s, Japanese guitar model numbers often directly reflected prices in yen (No. 10 = 100,000 yen). This helps contextualize relative quality levels.

Value Factors for Vintage Takamine

1. Japan-Made Status: All vintage Takamines are Japan-made (premium)
2. Original Electronics: Palathetic™ pickups from 1978+ are reliable
3. Model Number: Higher numbers indicate higher original tier
4. Condition: These guitars age well when maintained
5. Documentation: Original paperwork adds value
6. Hirade Signature: Mass Hirade-branded models are sought after

Where to Buy Takamine Guitars: Platform Comparison

Online Marketplace Analysis

Reverb (Average Price: $700)

• Best selection of Pro Series and vintage models
• Knowledgeable seller base
• 3.5% price appreciation year-over-year
• Best for: Pro Series, Limited Edition, vintage Japan-made

eBay (Average Price: $550)

• Larger selection of G Series models
• Auction opportunities for deals
• 2.5% price trend
• Best for: Budget finds, common G Series

Guitar Center Used (Average Price: $600)

• 45-day return policy
• Physical inspection available
• 3.0% appreciation
• Best for: Try-before-buy

Local Shops (Average Price: $520)

• Often undervalue Takamine vs. Martin/Taylor
• Negotiation opportunities
• 2.0% growth
• Best for: Budget deals

Tips for Buying Used Takamine Guitars

1. Verify Origin: Check label for "Made in Japan" (Pro Series) vs. import
2. Electronics Test: Test all preamp functions, check battery compartment for corrosion
3. Neck Relief: Ensure truss rod functions properly
4. Fret Condition: Takamines typically have excellent fretwork—verify it's maintained
5. Model Number Decode: Higher G Series numbers (90 > 70 > 50 > 30 > 20 > 10) indicate better specs

Takamine vs. Other Acoustic-Electric Brands

For buyers comparing options:

Takamine Advantage: If stage performance is your priority, Takamine offers unmatched amplified reliability at lower price points than comparable Taylor/Martin models.

Famous Takamine Players and Their Guitars

Takamine has attracted stadium-touring professionals:

• Bruce Springsteen: EF341SC for decades of touring—his primary acoustic
• Glenn Frey (Eagles): EF360GF signature model; lifetime Takamine user
• Jon Bon Jovi: EF341SC for 15+ years; personalized with initials
• Garth Brooks: Signature model for country performances
• Toby Keith: Multiple Takamine models on tour
• Bruno Mars: Contemporary pop usage
• Nancy Wilson (Heart): Acoustic ballad performances
• Kenny Chesney: Country touring choice

Why These Artists Choose Takamine

1. Tour-Proven Durability: Guitars that survive bus travel and stage use
2. Consistent Night-to-Night Tone: Palathetic system delivers reliably
3. Low Maintenance: Electronics designed for touring convenience
4. Comfortable Playability: Necks built for extended performances

Investment Potential: Which Takamines Appreciate?

Strong Investment Candidates

Vintage LTD Models (1987-2000):

• Limited production runs (400-1,700 units)
• Artistic designs with collector appeal
• Increasing recognition as collectibles

Vintage N Series Classical:

• Brazilian rosewood examples especially valuable
• Hirade-branded models command premiums
• Quality rivals European classical guitars

Early Pro Series Japan:

• 1980s-1990s EF models
• Peak Japanese craftsmanship era

Models for Players (Value, Not Investment)

• Current G Series: Excellent players, typical depreciation
• Recent Pro Series: Good value retention but not appreciation
• Current production models: Buy for playing enjoyment

Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Takamine

For Beginners ($200-$400)

Recommended Models:

• GD10CE: Solid spruce top at ~$300-$400
• Used GD30CE: Step-up quality at used prices
• Taka-Mini: 3/4 size for younger players

What to Prioritize:

• Solid top construction
• Functional electronics
• Comfortable neck profile

For Intermediate Players ($500-$900)

Recommended Models:

• GD30CE: Best value solid top at ~$500
• GN93CE: Near-Pro quality at $899
• GD51CE: Black walnut aesthetics at ~$650

What to Prioritize:

• Upgraded electronics
• Tonewood quality
• Body style matching your needs

For Professionals ($1,500-$3,000)

Recommended Models:

• Pro Series 5: Sweet spot of quality/value at ~$2,000
• EF341SC: Stage-proven reliability at ~$1,999
• Pro Series 7: Flagship appointments at ~$2,800

What to Prioritize:

• Japan-made construction
• CT4-DX or comparable preamp
• Premium tonewoods

For Collectors ($2,500+)

Recommended Models:

• Current LTD Models: Annual releases at ~$3,199
• Vintage LTD (1987-2000): Collectible limited editions
• N Series Classical: Premium Japanese classical guitars

What to Prioritize:

• Documentation and provenance
• Condition (essential for collectibles)
• Limited production numbers

The Takamine Sound: Understanding What You're Buying

Takamine guitars have a distinctive tonal character:

Amplified Characteristics:

• Clear, balanced response across frequencies
• Excellent note separation
• Low feedback even at high volumes
• "Ready for the mix" tone

Unplugged Characteristics:

• Bright, articulate voice
• Good projection for the body size
• Balanced rather than boomy
• Works well in ensemble settings

Who Should Consider Takamine:

• Gigging musicians needing reliable amplification
• Singer-songwriters performing regularly
• Players prioritizing stage sound
• Those seeking Japanese craftsmanship at accessible prices

Who Might Prefer Other Brands:

• Players primarily recording with microphones
• Those seeking maximum unplugged warmth
• Collectors focused on American heritage brands

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are Takamine guitars good quality? A: Yes, particularly the Japan-made Pro Series. Takamine pioneered the acoustic-electric category and maintains excellent quality standards. Even the import G Series offers exceptional value for the price point.

Q: Where are Takamine guitars made? A: Pro Series and Limited Edition models are handcrafted in Japan (Gifu Prefecture). G Series models are made in other Asian facilities to Takamine specifications. Always check the label for "Made in Japan" on Pro Series.

Q: How do Takamine guitars compare to Taylor or Martin? A: Takamine excels at amplified performance—arguably the best stock acoustic-electric tone. Taylor/Martin may have slight advantages unplugged. Takamine typically costs less while delivering professional stage performance.

Q: Are vintage Takamine guitars valuable? A: Japan-made models from the 1970s-1980s are excellent values, often underpriced compared to American brands of similar quality. N Series classical guitars with Brazilian rosewood can be very valuable ($5,000-$15,000+).

Q: What makes the Palathetic pickup special? A: The Palathetic system uses six separate piezo transducers (one per string) rather than a single element. This eliminates crosstalk between strings and provides more balanced, natural amplified tone with less feedback.

Q: Should I buy a G Series or save for Pro Series? A: The G-90 Series (GN93CE, GD93CE) at ~$899 delivers near-Pro quality. If budget allows, Pro Series offers genuine Japan-made construction and premium appointments. For beginners, the GD30CE at ~$500 is exceptional value.

Conclusion

Takamine represents a unique proposition in the acoustic guitar world: Japanese precision engineering focused entirely on amplified performance. While other brands may offer comparable unplugged tone, few match Takamine's stage reliability and consistent amplified voice.

For touring professionals, Takamine remains the industry standard. Bruce Springsteen's decades-long relationship with his EF341SC speaks volumes—when your guitar must perform flawlessly for 50,000 people, night after night, you choose Takamine. The Palathetic™ pickup system, developed in 1978, continues to set the standard for acoustic-electric amplification.

For buyers, Takamine offers exceptional value. The G Series provides professional-quality amplified tone at prices well below competing brands. The Pro Series delivers Japan-made craftsmanship with studio-grade electronics. And for collectors, the annual Limited Edition releases combine artistry with playability in genuinely limited quantities.

From that small workshop at the foot of Mount Takamine in 1962 to stages worldwide, the brand has stayed true to its mission: building acoustic-electric guitars that perform. Six decades of innovation have proven the concept—when amplified acoustic guitar matters, Takamine delivers.

For the most current pricing and availability, always verify with authorized Takamine dealers or the official Takamine website. Prices fluctuate based on market conditions and model availability.

---

Related Guides:

• Taylor Guitar Price Guide
• Martin Guitar Price Guide
• Alvarez Guitar Price Guide
• Ovation Guitar Price Guide