TAKGJ72CE12NAT vs TAKGN73CESB — Compare
Takamine GJ72CE-12 NAT acoustic vs Takamine GN73CE SB acoustic
The GJ72CE-12 is a 12-string jumbo built for lush, harmonic-rich tone and maximum projection, while the GN73CE is a cutaway 6-string designed for balanced clarity and comfortable upper-fret access. Choose the 12-string if you want that signature 12-string shimmer and studio resonance; choose the cutaway if you need versatility, portability, and easier soloing.
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Specs side by side
| Takamine GJ72CE-12 NAT acoustic | Takamine GN73CE SB acoustic | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $899.00 | $849.00 |
| Brand | Takamine | Takamine |
| Body Type | Hollow | — |
| Scale | — | 25.3" Scale |
| Strings | 12 | 6 |
| Fretboard | Laurel | Rosewood |
| Neck | Maple | Maple |
| Bridge | Fixed | — |
| Year | Unknown | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Takamine GJ72CE-12 NAT acoustic
- ✓ 12-string configuration delivers rich harmonic complexity and signature shimmer ideal for folk and country
- ✓ Larger jumbo body maximizes projection and resonance for studio and live venues
- ✓ More advanced TK-40D preamp with mid contour switch and notch filter for detailed tone shaping
- ✓ Wider 1.6875" nut accommodates 12-string spacing with comfortable playability
Why choose Takamine GN73CE SB acoustic
- ✓ Cutaway NEX body grants easy upper-fret access for soloing and lead work
- ✓ Lighter weight (4.8 lbs) reduces fatigue during long sessions and travel
- ✓ Compact 1054mm length more portable without sacrificing full-bodied tone
- ✓ Maple neck and throughout create cohesive, articulate midrange clarity for recording
Frequently asked questions
Why would I choose a 12-string over a standard 6-string?
12-strings deliver doubled-course richness, harmonic complexity, and that classic shimmering tone prized in folk, country, and indie music. The GJ72CE-12's jumbo body amplifies this effect, making it ideal for studio layering and ensemble settings where that fuller texture shines.
Is the GN73CE cutaway better for live performance than the jumbo?
Both excel live, but differently. The GN73CE's cutaway lets you access high frets without repositioning, and its lighter weight suits longer sets. The GJ72CE-12's jumbo body projects more unamplified volume and sustain, so choice depends on whether you prioritize upper-fret access or raw projection.
How do the electronics differ between these two?
The GJ72CE-12 includes the TK-40D preamp with a mid contour switch and notch filter for advanced tone sculpting in complex venues. The GN73CE uses the simpler TP-3G with three-band EQ and gain—sufficient for most gigs but less precise control for detailed tone shaping.
Which is better for fingerstyle playing?
Both work well for fingerstyle. The GJ72CE-12's wider nut spacing (1.6875") and jumbo body suit finger-picking with more separation and resonance. The GN73CE's narrower 42.5mm nut and cutaway design offer easier fretting and upper-register access for complex fingering patterns.