Takamine GN20CE-NS NEX Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a stunning blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology, offering exceptional sound quality and playability. Designed with the discerning musician in mind, this guitar features a solid cedar top and mahogany back and sides, delivering a warm, rich tonal character.
In this review, we’ll explore the key attributes that make the Takamine GN20CE-NS NEX a standout choice for both amateur and professional players. The NEX body shape, exclusive to Takamine, provides a balanced and articulate sound, making it versatile for various musical styles. The guitar’s slim mahogany neck and 12″-radius rosewood fingerboard ensure a comfortable playing experience, whether you’re strumming chords or picking intricate melodies. Additionally, the onboard Takamine TP-4TD preamp system with a built-in tuner offers excellent amplified sound and easy tuning adjustments, perfect for live performances and recording sessions. Combining elegant aesthetics with superior functionality, the Takamine GN20CE-NS NEX Acoustic-Electric Guitar is an exceptional instrument that elevates your playing experience.
Crafting Details
Solid Cedar Top
The Takamine GN20CE-NS features a solid cedar top, known for its warm resonance and ability to produce strong fundamental tones. Cedar is beloved by guitarists who appreciate a softer, more mellow sound, perfectly capturing the nuances of their performances. It’s the sort of tone that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a cold night, pulling you into the music with each strum.
Mahogany Back and Sides
Accompanying the solid cedar top are mahogany back and sides, a classic combination in the world of acoustics. The mahogany provides balance to the tonal delicacy of the cedar, adding a bit of punch and projection. It’s as if these materials were old friends, chatting over a cup of coffee, finding harmony in their conversations—a balance of vibrancy and depth.
Design Components
Quartersawn “X” Bracing
The interior of this guitar features quartersawn “X” bracing, contributing to its structural integrity and tonal consistency. This method of bracing manages to support the top without sacrificing resonance, offering sturdiness while maintaining the guitar’s natural vibrancy. With such careful consideration in design, this guitar strikes a perfect balance between strength and sound quality.
Pin-less Rosewood Bridge
The pin-less rosewood bridge is an aesthetic choice as much as it is functional. Imagine elegantly laying down your strings without struggling with pins—all the simplicity with none of the hassle. It’s a little nod to convenience that makes changing strings a much less daunting task and contributes to the instrument’s sleek appearance.
Amplification System
Takamine TP-4TD Preamp System
An acoustic-electric guitar is only as good as its amplification system, and the Takamine GN20CE-NS does not disappoint. Equipped with the Takamine TP-4TD preamp system, it boasts a built-in tuner, three-band EQ, and gain controls. These features provide all the flexibility you need for excellent amplified performance. Whether you’re on stage or in the studio, the sound remains robust, offering clear projection without distortion.
User Experience
Playability
Thanks to its sleek neck design and thoughtful string spacing, this guitar feels comfortable in your hands. The fretboard is smooth, allowing for seamless transitions and ease in playing across all genres. Guitarists of any level can appreciate the effortless playability, ensuring the focus stays on creativity and not finger fatigue.
Versatility
What sets the Takamine GN20CE-NS apart is its extraordinary versatility. It seamlessly adapts to different styles, whether you’re strumming folk tunes or playing intricate fingerstyle compositions. The guitar’s sound can easily fill a room unplugged while its amplification capabilities bring it to life on a larger stage.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Top Material | Solid Cedar |
| Back and Sides | Mahogany |
| Bracing | Quartersawn “X” |
| Bridge | Pin-less Rosewood |
| Preamp System | Takamine TP-4TD |
| Built-in Features | Tuner, Three-band EQ, Gain Controls |
Aesthetic Considerations
Visual Appeal
While sound is paramount, the visual appeal of the Takamine GN20CE-NS should not be understated. With a natural satin finish, it possesses a refined and elegant aura. The subtlety of the design compels admiration without demanding attention—like a classic novel on a crowded bookshelf, drawing you closer with its quiet presence.
Craftsmanship Quality
Every detail of this guitar showcases Takamine’s dedication to quality craftsmanship. It resonates with the care and precision that has gone into its making, and you can sense the expertise of the luthiers in every curve and contour. It’s not just an instrument; it’s a piece of art, and owning one feels like having a painting by your favorite artist.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the Takamine GN20CE-NS NEX Acoustic-Electric Guitar captures the essence of both craftsmanship and functionality. Its excellent construction with cedar and mahogany, paired with a thoughtful preamp system, makes it a suitable option for both stage and studio performances. Whether you’re seeking a guitar to accompany you on your musical journey or a reliable instrument that delivers both aesthetically and acoustically, the GN20CE-NS stands as a robust, versatile choice.
In the world of guitars, it is a testament to the joy of playing an instrument that truly speaks to you, leaving nothing to be desired but more time to play.
Hi, I write for My Guitar Advisor. I immensely enjoy playing and writing about guitars. I hope you find my articles and reviews helpful in your musical journey!
