What is the body shape of the Takamine GLN12E-NS?

The guitar features the Takamine NEX body shape. This is often described as a 'scaled-down dreadnought' that offers a more comfortable, narrow waist while retaining significant resonance.

What tonewood is used for the body of the GLN12E-NS?

The guitar is constructed with an okoume body. This tonewood is selected for its ability to produce a rich, sparkling sound with an even response across all frequencies.

Does this model include built-in electronics?

Yes, it is equipped with the Takamine TP-3G electronics system. This preamp allows the guitar to be plugged into amplifiers and PA systems for live performance.

What type of finish is applied to this guitar?

The GLN12E-NS features a Natural Satin finish. This provides a smooth feel and a subtle, understated aesthetic compared to high-gloss models.

What is the typical price point for this model?

The Takamine GLN12E-NS is generally available in the price range of approximately £299. This positions it as an accessible option for ambitious beginners and intermediate players.

How does the sound of okoume compare to other woods?

Okoume provides a balanced tonal profile similar to mahogany but with a distinct sparkle. It is prized for its even frequency response, making it versatile for different playing styles.

Is the Takamine GLN12E-NS suitable for beginners?

Yes, its combination of a comfortable body shape, smooth satin finish, and built-in tuner within the TP-3G preamp makes it highly suitable for ambitious guitarists starting their journey.

Can this guitar be used for professional live performances?

While priced for intermediate users, the inclusion of TP-3G electronics and the reliable Takamine build quality make it capable of handling live stage performances.

How does the NEX shape compare to a standard dreadnought?

The NEX shape has a tighter waist and slightly smaller dimensions than a full-sized dreadnought. This makes it more ergonomic and easier to hold without losing the tonal versatility of a larger guitar.

What kind of frequency response should I expect?

The GLN12E-NS is designed to provide an even response across the whole frequency range. This means the bass, mids, and trebles are balanced without any specific range overpowering the others.

How does the GLN12E-NS compare to the Martin LX1E?

The Martin LX1E is a 3/4 size 'Little Martin' designed primarily for travel. The Takamine GLN12E-NS is a larger NEX-sized instrument that offers more acoustic volume and a different tonal character due to its okoume construction.

What is the 'NS' designation in the model name?

The 'NS' stands for Natural Satin. This refers to the non-glossy, natural-looking finish applied to the wood of the guitar.

Gear article

Takamine GLN12E-NS NEX Electro-Acoustic Guitar

The Takamine GLN12E-NS is a versatile electro-acoustic guitar featuring the brand's signature NEX body shape and a natural satin finish. It is equipped with Takamine's TP-3G electronics, making it an accessible choice for ambitious guitarists seeking a balance of acoustic resonance and amplified performance.

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Overview and Design

The Takamine GLN12E-NS is designed as a versatile instrument that bridges the gap between traditional dreadnought volume and the comfort of smaller-bodied guitars. It utilizes the NEX body shape, which Takamine describes as a 'scaled-down dreadnought,' offering a waist that is more narrow than a standard acoustic, facilitating easier playability for seated performers or those with smaller frames.

The instrument is aesthetically defined by its Natural Satin finish, which provides a smooth, non-reflective surface that allows the wood to breathe and vibrate more freely compared to heavy gloss finishes. This design choice highlights the natural grain of the okoume tonewood used throughout the construction.

Tonewoods and Sonic Character

Constructed with an okoume body, the GLN12E-NS delivers a tonal profile characterized by its balance and clarity. Okoume is known for producing a sparkling, rich sound that maintains an even response across the frequency spectrum. This ensures that neither the low-end nor the high-end frequencies overwhelm the mix, providing the player with significant musical freedom across various genres.

The use of okoume ensures that the guitar provides sufficient projection for unplugged practice sessions while remaining articulate enough for intricate fingerstyle or heavy strumming.

Electronics and Amplification

For live performance and studio applications, the GLN12E-NS is outfitted with the Takamine TP-3G electronics system. This integrated preamp and pickup set allows the guitar to be connected directly to an amplifier or a PA system. The electronics are designed to translate the natural acoustic properties of the okoume body into an amped signal, ensuring that the guitar's character remains consistent when performing at higher volumes.

Comparison to Market Alternatives

Within the sub-£400 price bracket, the GLN12E-NS competes with several notable models:

Yamaha APXT2: A 3/4 size alternative that is more compact for travel but offers less acoustic projection than the GLN12E.
Martin LX1E: A premium small-bodied alternative that focuses on portability, though often at a higher price point relative to size.
Fender Newporter Player: Offers a more contemporary 'California' aesthetic and a slim-taper neck, appealing to electric guitarists.
Sigma DTC-28HE: Provides a more traditional full-sized dreadnought experience for players who prioritise maximum low-end resonance over the GLN12E's ergonomic NEX shape.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the body shape of the Takamine GLN12E-NS?: The guitar features the Takamine NEX body shape. This is often described as a 'scaled-down dreadnought' that offers a more comfortable, narrow waist while retaining significant resonance.
What tonewood is used for the body of the GLN12E-NS?: The guitar is constructed with an okoume body. This tonewood is selected for its ability to produce a rich, sparkling sound with an even response across all frequencies.
Does this model include built-in electronics?: Yes, it is equipped with the Takamine TP-3G electronics system. This preamp allows the guitar to be plugged into amplifiers and PA systems for live performance.
What type of finish is applied to this guitar?: The GLN12E-NS features a Natural Satin finish. This provides a smooth feel and a subtle, understated aesthetic compared to high-gloss models.
What is the typical price point for this model?: The Takamine GLN12E-NS is generally available in the price range of approximately £299. This positions it as an accessible option for ambitious beginners and intermediate players.
How does the sound of okoume compare to other woods?: Okoume provides a balanced tonal profile similar to mahogany but with a distinct sparkle. It is prized for its even frequency response, making it versatile for different playing styles.
Is the Takamine GLN12E-NS suitable for beginners?: Yes, its combination of a comfortable body shape, smooth satin finish, and built-in tuner within the TP-3G preamp makes it highly suitable for ambitious guitarists starting their journey.
Can this guitar be used for professional live performances?: While priced for intermediate users, the inclusion of TP-3G electronics and the reliable Takamine build quality make it capable of handling live stage performances.
How does the NEX shape compare to a standard dreadnought?: The NEX shape has a tighter waist and slightly smaller dimensions than a full-sized dreadnought. This makes it more ergonomic and easier to hold without losing the tonal versatility of a larger guitar.
What kind of frequency response should I expect?: The GLN12E-NS is designed to provide an even response across the whole frequency range. This means the bass, mids, and trebles are balanced without any specific range overpowering the others.
How does the GLN12E-NS compare to the Martin LX1E?: The Martin LX1E is a 3/4 size 'Little Martin' designed primarily for travel. The Takamine GLN12E-NS is a larger NEX-sized instrument that offers more acoustic volume and a different tonal character due to its okoume construction.
What is the 'NS' designation in the model name?: The 'NS' stands for Natural Satin. This refers to the non-glossy, natural-looking finish applied to the wood of the guitar.