How many units of the Takamine FN15 AR were produced?

The Takamine FN15 AR is a limited-edition model with only 300 units manufactured worldwide, making it a rare instrument for collectors.

What type of preamp does this guitar use?

It features the CTF-2N preamp, which is a modern FET-based system inspired by the classic 'Brownie' preamps found in vintage Takamine models.

What is the primary wood used for the guitar's top?

The guitar features a solid cedar top, which is known for providing a warm, responsive sound and rich harmonic content.

What wood is used for the back and sides?

The back and sides are constructed from Amazon rosewood, a choice that adds to the guitar's rarity and provides a rich, balanced timbre.

What is the body shape of the FN15 AR?

This model utilizes a traditional dreadnought body shape, which is designed for high volume, powerful projection, and deep bass.

What kind of internal bracing does the guitar have?

The FN15 AR uses X-bracing, a time-tested design that allows the solid cedar top to vibrate freely while maintaining structural strength.

How does the 'Brownie' preamp influence the sound?

The CTF-2N 'Brownie' preamp is designed to replicate the warm, FET-driven sound of early Takamine electronics, offering a natural and organic amplified tone.

Is the battery access difficult on this model?

No, despite its retro-inspired sound, the CTF-2N preamp features modern improvements such as easy battery access for convenient changes.

What is the typical price range for the FN15 AR?

The typical price for this guitar is approximately £1,495, reflecting its limited edition status and high-grade materials.

How does the sound character differ from spruce-topped guitars?

Unlike spruce, which can be very bright, the cedar top on the FN15 AR provides a warmer, more 'broken-in' sound with singing sustain on the highs.

Does this guitar suit professional live performance?

Yes, with its state-of-the-art CTF-2N electronics and powerful dreadnought projection, it is well-suited for professional stage use.

How does the FN15 AR compare to the Taylor PS14ce?

The FN15 AR is significantly more affordable than the ultra-premium Taylor Presentation PS14ce, yet it offers unique value through its rare Amazon rosewood and limited production run.

Gear article

Takamine FN15 AR Electro-Acoustic Guitar

The Takamine FN15 AR is a limited-edition electro-acoustic guitar featuring a solid cedar top and Amazon rosewood back and sides. Produced in a restricted run of only 300 units, it combines traditional dreadnought construction with the retro-inspired CTF-2N 'Brownie' FET preamp system.

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Background and Design

The Takamine FN15 AR is a rare entry in the manufacturer's catalogue, positioned as a collector-grade instrument with only 300 units manufactured globally. The guitar utilizes a classic dreadnought body shape, which is historically favoured for its volume and projection.

A key design feature is the internal X-bracing, which supports the solid cedar soundboard. This bracing pattern is engineered to balance structural integrity with tonal vibration, allowing the guitar to produce a powerful, authoritative acoustic voice even before amplification.

Tonewood Selection

The FN15 AR is distinguished by its specific tonewood pairing. The use of a solid cedar top provides an immediate, warm response that is typically more sensitive to a lighter touch than spruce. This is complemented by Amazon rosewood back and sides.

Amazon rosewood is a dense tropical hardwood that contributes significantly to the instrument's complex harmonic profile. Together, these woods are selected to provide a musically rich timbre that offers deep low-end response, balanced mid-range frequencies, and clear sustain on the higher notes.

CTF-2N Preamp and Electronics

A significant technical highlight of the FN15 AR is the inclusion of the CTF-2N preamp. This system is a modern revival of Takamine’s early FET (Field Effect Transistor) preamp design, famously nicknamed the 'Brownie' by guitarists during the brand's rise in the late 1970s and 80s.

While the CTF-2N maintains the warm, natural compression and character of the original circuit, it incorporates contemporary quality-of-life improvements. This includes a more accessible battery compartment to ensure reliability during live performances and professional recording sessions.

Market Position and Comparisons

Retailing at approximately £1,495, the FN15 AR sits in the premium mid-to-high tier of the market. Its rarity as a 300-unit limited run differentiates it from mass-produced models like the Yamaha APXT2 or the Fender Newporter Player.

In terms of tonewoods and build quality, it is a specialized alternative to instruments like the Sigma DTC-28HE or the Guild F-2512E. While it lacks the ultra-high luxury pricing of the Taylor Presentation PS14ce, it offers a professional-grade alternative for players seeking the specific 'Brownie' preamp tone and the unique resonance of Amazon rosewood.

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Frequently asked questions

How many units of the Takamine FN15 AR were produced?: The Takamine FN15 AR is a limited-edition model with only 300 units manufactured worldwide, making it a rare instrument for collectors.
What type of preamp does this guitar use?: It features the CTF-2N preamp, which is a modern FET-based system inspired by the classic 'Brownie' preamps found in vintage Takamine models.
What is the primary wood used for the guitar's top?: The guitar features a solid cedar top, which is known for providing a warm, responsive sound and rich harmonic content.
What wood is used for the back and sides?: The back and sides are constructed from Amazon rosewood, a choice that adds to the guitar's rarity and provides a rich, balanced timbre.
What is the body shape of the FN15 AR?: This model utilizes a traditional dreadnought body shape, which is designed for high volume, powerful projection, and deep bass.
What kind of internal bracing does the guitar have?: The FN15 AR uses X-bracing, a time-tested design that allows the solid cedar top to vibrate freely while maintaining structural strength.
How does the 'Brownie' preamp influence the sound?: The CTF-2N 'Brownie' preamp is designed to replicate the warm, FET-driven sound of early Takamine electronics, offering a natural and organic amplified tone.
Is the battery access difficult on this model?: No, despite its retro-inspired sound, the CTF-2N preamp features modern improvements such as easy battery access for convenient changes.
What is the typical price range for the FN15 AR?: The typical price for this guitar is approximately £1,495, reflecting its limited edition status and high-grade materials.
How does the sound character differ from spruce-topped guitars?: Unlike spruce, which can be very bright, the cedar top on the FN15 AR provides a warmer, more 'broken-in' sound with singing sustain on the highs.
Does this guitar suit professional live performance?: Yes, with its state-of-the-art CTF-2N electronics and powerful dreadnought projection, it is well-suited for professional stage use.
How does the FN15 AR compare to the Taylor PS14ce?: The FN15 AR is significantly more affordable than the ultra-premium Taylor Presentation PS14ce, yet it offers unique value through its rare Amazon rosewood and limited production run.