TAKGN20CENS vs TAKGN93NAT — Compare
Takamine GN20CE NS acoustic vs Takamine GN93 NAT acoustic
The GN20CE-NS is a cutaway electric with cedar top and built-in electronics for amplified performance, while the GN93 is a traditional non-cutaway acoustic with spruce top and pure acoustic projection. Choose the GN20CE-NS if you need stage amplification and upper-fret access; choose the GN93 if you prioritize acoustic tone and classical/fingerstyle purity.
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Specs side by side
| Takamine GN20CE NS acoustic | Takamine GN93 NAT acoustic | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $669.00 | $699.00 |
| Brand | Takamine | Takamine |
| Body | Auditorium Cutaway | Other |
| Body Type | Hollow | Hollow |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | — | 20 Frets |
| Fretboard | Ovangkol | Laurel |
| Neck | Mahogany | Mahogany |
| Pickup Configuration | Under Saddle | Soundhole |
| Bridge | Fixed | Fixed |
| Year | Unknown | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Takamine GN20CE NS acoustic
- ✓ Cutaway design enables easy access to upper frets
- ✓ Takamine TP-4TD preamp with tuner and 3-band EQ built in
- ✓ Compact NEX body reduces fatigue during long sessions
- ✓ Cedar top produces warm, articulate midrange ideal for singer-songwriter work
Why choose Takamine GN93 NAT acoustic
- ✓ Solid spruce top with superior treble clarity and projection
- ✓ 3-piece rosewood back with quilt maple provides excellent sustain and resonance
- ✓ Longer 25.4 inch scale length offers balanced tension and fuller low end
- ✓ Bound rosewood fingerboard with abalone inlays and gold tuning machines signal higher build quality
Frequently asked questions
Why does the GN93 cost the same as the GN20CE-NS if it seems fancier?
Both are mid-tier Takamine instruments, but they serve different needs. The GN20CE-NS justifies its price through electronics and cutaway engineering; the GN93 justifies it through premium wood (spruce, rosewood, quilt maple) and acoustic refinement. Price reflects feature set, not just materials.
Can I amplify the GN93?
The GN93 description does not mention a preamp or electronics system, so it is purely acoustic. You would need to add an external pickup system if amplification becomes necessary later.
Which is better for fingerpicking and classical playing?
The GN93 is optimized for classical and fingerstyle work, with a longer scale, spruce top for clarity, and bound rosewood fingerboard. The GN20CE-NS also supports fingerpicking but favors singer-songwriter and studio recording versatility.
Is the cutaway worth sacrificing the GN93's acoustic tone?
The cutaway trades some body resonance for upper-fret access and amplification. If you perform on stage or play beyond the 12th fret frequently, the GN20CE-NS is practical; if you prioritize unplugged tone and rarely venture above the 12th fret, the GN93 is the stronger choice.