TAKGD30CE12BLK vs TAKGD30CE12NAT — Compare
Takamine GD30CE 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar in Gloss Black vs Takamine GD30CE 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar in Gloss Natural
Both are Takamine GD30CE 12-string dreadnoughts at the same price tier with identical electronics and scale length, but they differ in back/side wood and fingerboard material. The Gloss Black (Product A) uses okoume back/sides with ovangkol fingerboard for slightly brighter projection, while the Natural (Product B) uses mahogany back/sides with rosewood fingerboard for warmer resonance—choose based on tonal preference and whether you prioritize brightness or warmth.
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Takamine GD30CE 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar in Gloss Black
Takamine GD30CE 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar in Gloss Natural
Specs side by side
| Takamine GD30CE 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar in Gloss Black | Takamine GD30CE 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar in Gloss Natural | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $749.00 | $749.00 |
| Brand | Takamine | Takamine |
| Series | Takamine G Series | Takamine G Series |
| Body | Dreadnought Cutaway | Dreadnought Cutaway |
| Body Type | — | Hollow |
| Scale | — | 25.3" Scale |
| Strings | 12 | 12 |
| Frets | — | 20 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ovangkol | Ovangkol |
| Neck | Mahogany | Mahogany |
| Pickup Configuration | Under Saddle | Under Saddle |
| Bridge | — | Fixed |
| Year | Unknown | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Takamine GD30CE 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar in Gloss Black
- ✓ Okoume back and sides deliver brighter, more articulate tone with excellent projection
- ✓ Ovangkol fingerboard offers fast, responsive playing feel
- ✓ Slightly more cutting tone ideal for live performance and cutting through a mix
Why choose Takamine GD30CE 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar in Gloss Natural
- ✓ Mahogany back and sides produce warm, balanced resonance with natural richness
- ✓ Rosewood fingerboard adds tonal warmth and traditional character
- ✓ Satin-finish neck facilitates smooth hand movement during extended play
Frequently asked questions
What's the main tonal difference between these two models?
The Black model's okoume back/sides produce brighter, more articulate projection with excellent clarity. The Natural model's mahogany back/sides deliver warmer resonance with richer sustain and more traditional acoustic character.
Are the fingerboards different?
Yes. The Black model has an ovangkol fingerboard with 12-inch radius, while the Natural model has a rosewood fingerboard, also with 12-inch radius. Both are 1.875 inches at the nut. Rosewood adds warmth; ovangkol is faster and brighter.
Which is better for live amplified performance?
The Gloss Black's brighter tone and excellent projection cut through a PA system more naturally and require less EQ tweaking. However, both include the identical TP-4TD preamp with three-band EQ, so either can be shaped to your needs.
Do these have the same electronics and hardware?
Yes—both feature the Takamine TP-4TD preamp with tuner, three-band EQ, and gain controls. Both use chrome die-cast tuners, synthetic bone nut, and 25.3-inch scale. The only differences are back/side wood, fingerboard material, and neck finish.