TAKGD51BSB vs TAKGD51NAT — Compare
Takamine GD51 BSB acoustic vs Takamine GD51 NAT acoustic
The GD51-BSB uses black walnut back and sides with a laurel fingerboard, while the GD51-NAT features rosewood back and sides with a bound rosewood fingerboard. Choose the BSB if you want a warmer, developing tone with vintage character; choose the NAT if you prefer immediate articulate bass and classic dreadnought projection.
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Specs side by side
| Takamine GD51 BSB acoustic | Takamine GD51 NAT acoustic | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $549.00 | $549.00 |
| Brand | Takamine | Takamine |
| Body | Dreadnought | Dreadnought |
| Body Type | Hollow | Hollow |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | — | 20 Frets |
| Fretboard | Laurel | Laurel |
| Neck | Mahogany | Mahogany |
| Pickup Configuration | Soundhole | Soundhole |
| Bridge | Fixed | Fixed |
| Year | Unknown | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Takamine GD51 BSB acoustic
- ✓ Black walnut construction develops richer tone over time with playing
- ✓ Brown sunburst finish shows authentic character and proven playability history
- ✓ Warm midrange with sustaining quality suits expressive fingerstyle
- ✓ Suitable for all skill levels including advanced players
Why choose Takamine GD51 NAT acoustic
- ✓ Rosewood back and sides deliver bold, articulate bass from day one
- ✓ Slim neck profile and bound rosewood fingerboard enhance comfort for fingerstyle
- ✓ Sweet high-end clarity and balanced resonance across all registers
- ✓ Natural finish shows wood grain beauty and classic aesthetics
Frequently asked questions
What's the main tonal difference between walnut and rosewood backs?
Walnut tends toward warm midrange that develops character over time, while rosewood delivers immediate articulate bass and bold projection. Both are quality materials; walnut emphasizes warmth and evolution, rosewood emphasizes clarity and definition.
Which fingerboard is better for fingerstyle?
Both have 12-inch radius fingerboards, but the GD51-NAT's slim mahogany neck profile and bound rosewood fingerboard are specifically noted as optimized for fingerstyle comfort. The GD51-BSB's bound laurel fingerboard is equally playable but less explicitly tailored to that style.
Are these good guitars for beginners?
Both are solid choices for beginners through intermediate players. The GD51-NAT is listed for beginner and intermediate skill levels, while the GD51-BSB extends to advanced players. Both offer Takamine's reputation for consistent action and playability.
Why choose used if the same models exist new?
The GD51-BSB is described as a used instrument with proven playability and authentic character from prior use. If this appeals to you aesthetically and financially, it's a legitimate option; the GD51-NAT description doesn't specify condition, so pricing and availability may differ.