TAKGY51EBSB vs TAKGY51ENAT — Compare
Takamine GY51E BSB New Yorker Guitar Brown Sunburst vs Takamine GY51E NAT New Yorker Guitar Natural Finish
These are virtually identical guitars—same body shape, wood, electronics, and hardware—differing only in finish color. The Brown Sunburst suits players seeking vintage aesthetics, while the Natural finish appeals to those preferring a classic, understated look and slightly warmer perceived tone.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Takamine GY51E BSB New Yorker Guitar Brown Sunburst
Takamine GY51E NAT New Yorker Guitar Natural Finish
Specs side by side
| Takamine GY51E BSB New Yorker Guitar Brown Sunburst | Takamine GY51E NAT New Yorker Guitar Natural Finish | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $699.00 | $699.00 |
| Brand | Takamine | Takamine |
| Body | Newporter | Newporter |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | 21 Frets | 21 Frets |
| Fretboard | Laurel | Laurel |
| Neck | Mahogany | Mahogany |
| Pickup Configuration | Under Saddle | Under Saddle |
| String Type | Steel | Steel |
| Year | 2023 | 2023 |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Takamine GY51E BSB New Yorker Guitar Brown Sunburst
- ✓ Brown sunburst finish offers vintage character and modern resonance enhancement
- ✓ Darker aesthetic complements stage lighting and recording studio environments
- ✓ Identical playability and electronics to competitor model
Why choose Takamine GY51E NAT New Yorker Guitar Natural Finish
- ✓ Natural finish showcases wood grain and traditional guitar appearance
- ✓ Slightly warmer tonal character that some players perceive in uncolored finishes
- ✓ Same TP-4TD electronics, scale length, and construction quality
Frequently asked questions
Is there a real tonal difference between the finishes?
No. Both guitars have identical solid spruce tops with black walnut back and sides, producing the same balanced, articulate tone. Finish type does not affect acoustic output—any perceived difference is subjective.
Which finish is better for recording?
Neither has an acoustic advantage. The Brown Sunburst may photograph better under studio lights for video content, while the Natural finish is more versatile for genre-spanning projects. Tone recorded direct via the TP-4TD electronics is identical.
Are the playability and hardware identical?
Yes. Both feature the same 630mm scale, 42.5mm nut width, mahogany neck, laurel fingerboard, synthetic bone nut, and gold die-cast tuners. They are the same instrument in different finishes.
Which suits fingerstyle better?
Both are equally suited to fingerstyle. The Natural finish description emphasizes fingerpicking compatibility, but both guitars have the same 12-inch fingerboard radius and nut width that support fingerstyle playing.