Takamine GD30CE Review: G-Series Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Brand/Model: Takamine GD30CE

Number Of Strings: 6

Hand Orientation: Right

Body Material: Mahogany/Spruce top

Neck Material: Mahogany

Fretboard Material: Rosewood

Price Range: Under $500

Our Rating: 8/10

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Takamine GD30CE NAT Guitar Review

When looking at options for acoustic-electric guitars under $500, we really wanted to find a great Blueridge to give an underdog a minute or two in the spotlight.

But, staying under or meeting the price point when it came to quality comparisons with the “Tak” was a fruitless effort.

The ever-worthy and long-time favorite, the Takamine GD30CE dreadnought, held its ground and took its very deserved place in this review!

Artists of various genres like Garth Brooks, Kenny Chesney, Toby Keith, Blake Shelton, John Bon Jovi, Bruno Mars, Paul Simon, the Eagles, and even Bruce Springsteen all swung a “Tak” in the spotlight!

So don’t sass on the “G” series when adored Garth Brooks expertly brandished one!

This simple yet stage-worthy guitar sports a solid spruce top with mahogany sides, back, and neck. The fretboard is made of rosewood, and it even has a pinless rosewood bridge.

The Takamine TP-4TD preamp system includes a three-band EQ and a built-in tuner for amplified performance that takes a 9 volt battery. Like you would expect, it plays excellently with resonance and sustain without being plugged in.

Do you dare take on a Takamine and place yourself among the stars?

Pros

Price
Natural finish
Takamine TP-4TD preamp system
Solid tonewood
Pinless rosewood bridge

Cons

Quality control issues

Takamine GD30CE Reviews

The Takamine GD30CE guitar does justice to the revered Takamine name, even with its low budget price tag. It’s not uncommon for buyers to worship their GD30CE guitar, and the instrument adds an aura that won’t be unnoticed while on stage!

However, as a very economical choice for a Tak guitar, there has been minor instances of a couple of finishing rough patches and dislike for the stock strings – nothing that can’t be taken care of in five minutes top!

But, to own a Takamine for under $500, it’s a buy that needs picking up today!

Alternative Acoustic-Electric Guitars to Consider

For less than $100 more, you could own another Takamine in the G series, the Takamine GN93CE-NAT Nex Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar. It’s a beautiful instrument with a solid Spruce top, laminate rosewood sides, and a three-piece rosewood/quilt maple back. Wondering what that looks like?

The back has a striking design that’s definitely out of the ordinary, but it suits the Takamine to a T. It does feature a different preamp system than the GD30CE – it has the TK-40D preamp system. There are some nice, premium touches too, like the gold die-cast tuners, curvaceous NEX cutaway, and abalone dot inlays.

However, if you want more bang for your buck in the way of freebies, you can’t beat the Fender CD-140SCE Acoustic Electric Guitar in this price range. As a bundle, you’ll make the most of your dollar with the included tuner, picks, strap, and case, plus a DVD in case you’re a newbie.

It might not have all the bells and whistles you’re looking for, but it’s certainly got a solid reputation and foothold among its buyers.

But, if you need a bigger range to choose from, why not check out our complete line-up of top quality electric-acoustic guitars. Just don’t blame me if the extra options makes your decision even harder!

Takamine GD30CE FAQ

Is the Takamine GD30CE Neck Finished with Satin or Gloss?

No. Instead, to keep the neck playable and smooth to use, it has a flat finish that’s been rubbed with tung oil, so even if your palms get a little sweaty, it’s not going to stick.

Is there Another Color Finish of this Takamine Guitar?

While this natural finish is the most sought-after look for sound and aesthetics, it’s also available in a classy black finish for those who are a little more daring with a little more spunk!

Is there Another Takamine Close to this Price Range?

If you’re willing to push your budget a little more, but no more over a hundred bucks, then the Takamine GN93CE-NAT should be your first buy!

Since it’s technically over $500, it couldn’t be featured in this spot, but it definitely deserves to be picked up over this one if you can front up the extra cash! Buy the best of what you can afford!

Where is the Japanese Guitar Made?

While this model is made in China, it’s been strictly regulated to meet the standards of Takamine’s spec orders.

What are the Dimensions of the Takamine?

It has a dreadnought body that’s 41 x 15.5 x 4 inches in size.

Is there a Smaller Model of this Guitar?

The closest guitar in sound and performance specs to the GD30CE is the Takamine GN30CE that has the NEX cutaway body.

The natural model features the same body, preamp system, and tones, but it has a slightly smaller body for those who find the dreadnought a little too big.

GD30-CE Sound

Hardware/Electronics You’ll Need

You’ll need to start from scratch in the way of equipment and accessories if you buy the Takamine acoustic electric guitar. It’s not totally a bad thing since you know the entire $500 (approx.) is going into the value of the instrument itself.

Since it is a Tak, you can take your savings and put it straight into the list of needs you’ll find in our list of accessories for electric & acoustic guitars. For now, a quick list should help you get started.

Standout Features of the GD30CE Acoustic-Electric

Excellent preamp/pickups
High-quality
Solid top

Our Verdict on the GD30CE Guitar

To strum it up, the Takamine GD30CE Acoustic Electric Guitar is listed at a steal of a price. While it’s made in China, it doesn’t disappoint. It’s a full-size guitar with full-size reputation, quality, and sound. It doesn’t get much better than this!

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