Takamine Hirade & Classical Nylon-String Guitars

For recording, a nylon-string guitar earns its place with tone you can build a track around. Takamine's Hirade and Classical series is made in Japan with solid cedar or spruce tops. Cedar tends to record warm and round, which sits gently under a vocal. Spruce is brighter and more defined, so it cuts through a denser arrangement.

The cutaway classical-electrics (TC132SC, TC135SC, C132S, EC132SC) carry Takamine's CTP-3 CoolTube or CT4B preamps. That gives you a direct signal to record alongside a mic, and a tracking option when the room is not ideal. Blending the two is a practical way to get a fuller sound in a home studio.

The Hirade concert models (TH5C, TH8SS, TH90, H8SS, DH90, EH5C) suit mic-only sessions and classical, fingerstyle and Latin productions. The 52 mm nut keeps the playing comfortable through long takes, and left-handed versions are available. Studio Gears offers the range from about $1,599 to $2,249.

Takamine TC132SC Lefty Classical Acoustic Electric Guitar Open Box

$1,599.00
Takamine EH5C acoustic in / Th5c Hirade Cutaway Nylon String W/ Case

$2,249.00

Loading more...

More Takamine series

All Takamine →

G Series103 in stock · from $349

Limited Edition3 in stock · from $1,439

Legacy Series2 in stock · from $2,199

Signature Series2 in stock · from $2,499

TT Series1 in stock · from $4,599

Takamine Acoustics (113) Takamine Left-Handed Acoustics (27) All Takamine

Takamine Hirade & Classical Guitars - frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Takamine's Hirade concert classicals and the cutaway classical-electrics?

The Hirade concert classicals, such as the TH5C, TH8SS, TH90, H8SS, DH90 and EH5C, are built around solid cedar or spruce tops and a traditional 52 mm nut. The cutaway models, including the TC132SC, TC135SC, C132S and EC132SC, add CTP-3 CoolTube or CT4B preamps for amplified playing.

Should I choose a cedar or spruce top on a Takamine nylon-string guitar?

Cedar tops generally sound warm and responsive, which suits players who like a softer, rounder voice. Spruce tends to be brighter and more projecting. Both appear in the Hirade and Classical range, which suits classical, flamenco-influenced, fingerstyle and Latin playing. Tiers also differ by woods, finish and electronics.

Does Takamine make left-handed classical guitars with onboard electronics?

Yes, several models in the Hirade and Classical family come in left-handed versions, including cutaway classical-electrics like the TC132SC. These keep the familiar classical layout while adding a preamp for amplifying. Every instrument is set up and professionally packed, and shipping within the US is free.

Takamine Hirade & Classical Guitars in stock now at Studio Gears

As of October 20, 2026, Studio Gears has 2 Takamine Hirade & Classical Guitars in stock and ready to ship, priced from $1,599 to $2,249. Every order ships free within the US, no sales tax collected on orders shipped outside California, and 30-day returns.