TAKGC5LHNAT vs TAKGC5NAT — Compare
Takamine GC5 LH NAT guitar vs Takamine GC5 NAT guitar
The GC5LH-NAT is a left-handed model with mahogany back/sides and rosewood fingerboard, while the GC5-NAT is right-handed with black walnut back/sides and laurel fingerboard. Choose the GC5LH-NAT if you play left-handed; choose the GC5-NAT if you're right-handed and prefer a slightly brighter tonal character with woody bass.
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Specs side by side
| Takamine GC5 LH NAT guitar | Takamine GC5 NAT guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499.00 | $499.00 |
| Brand | Takamine | Takamine |
| Body Type | Hollow | Hollow |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Fretboard | Laurel | Laurel |
| Neck | Mahogany | Mahogany |
| Bridge | Fixed | Fixed |
| Year | Unknown | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Takamine GC5 LH NAT guitar
- ✓ Left-handed configuration for southpaw players
- ✓ Rosewood fingerboard adds durability and traditional feel
- ✓ Mahogany back and sides contribute warm, focused midrange tone
Why choose Takamine GC5 NAT guitar
- ✓ Right-handed orientation for majority of players
- ✓ Black walnut back and sides deliver crystalline trebles with woody bass
- ✓ Laurel fingerboard is sustainable and visually distinct
Frequently asked questions
What's the main difference between these two guitars?
The GC5LH-NAT is built for left-handed players, while the GC5-NAT is right-handed. They also differ in back/side woods: mahogany versus black walnut, which subtly affects tone character.
Which has better tone—mahogany or walnut back and sides?
Both deliver balanced, warm tones suited to classical and fingerstyle. The mahogany (GC5LH-NAT) produces a focused, warm midrange, while the black walnut (GC5-NAT) adds crystalline treble definition with woody bass frequencies. Choice depends on personal preference.
Are the fingerboards different, and does it matter?
Yes—the GC5LH-NAT has rosewood, the GC5-NAT has laurel. Rosewood is traditional and durable; laurel is sustainable and visually distinct. Playability differences are minimal for most players.
Can a right-handed player use the left-handed model?
No. Left-handed guitars have the thickest string (low E) on top and thinnest on bottom, reversing the string order. Playing a left-handed guitar right-handed produces inverted string-to-finger mapping and is not practical.