Takamine

Takamine is a Japanese guitar manufacturer known for producing acoustic and acoustic-electric guitars. Founded in 1959 in the town of Sakashita, Japan (which later became part of Nakatsugawa), near the mountain Mount Takamine, the company originally operated as a small family-run shop.

Takamine guitars gained international recognition in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly for their innovative acoustic-electric designs. They were among the first to offer factory-installed pickup and preamp systems in acoustic guitars, making them popular with performing musicians. These systems often featured sophisticated equalization and gain controls, providing players with greater control over their amplified sound.

Notable features of Takamine guitars often include solid wood tops (such as spruce or cedar), a variety of body shapes (dreadnought, grand auditorium, etc.), and meticulously crafted necks. They are generally considered to offer a high level of quality and value for their price point.

Takamine produces a wide range of models, from entry-level instruments to high-end, handcrafted guitars. Their instruments are used by both amateur and professional musicians across various genres. The company continues to innovate in acoustic guitar technology, developing new pickup systems and construction techniques. They also produce guitars under the brand name Hirade, which focuses on classical guitars.