On THE 60TH Anniversary
In the year 2022, THE 60TH anniversary of Takamine Guitars, the unpredictable and deadly COVID-19 pandemic still casts its shadow of anxiety and separation. Yet we look with optimism to our future.
Everyone in Takamine is deeply grateful to the many guitar fans worldwide who have continued to purchase Takamine guitars. We believe you understand that in spite of current logistical challenges, your new Takamine guitar reflects the exacting standards and superior hand-crafted quality to which we are dedicated.
Looking back through the 60 years of Takamine history, we are reminded of the greatly expanded world of the acoustic guitar in performance art. A development in which are proud to have played a key role. It is this idea of musical communication and our deep appreciation for the power of the acoustic guitar that has driven our developments and contributions in the field of acoustic guitar design and amplification.
It is in this spirit that we present these two special, celebratory models - THE 60TH and LTD2022 - as testament to the heartfelt respect for the instrument that Takamine has poured into our creations from the beginning.
We sincerely wish to continue this journey with you for at least 60 more years.
President Hayami Tahte
Takamine Gakki Co, ltd.
Journey to the beginning of Acoustic-Electric
Before 1978, the year Takamine first commercialized the acoustic-electric guitar, the most common method of amplifying an acoustic guitar was by way of an open microphone. This system greatly compromised on-stage performances and many popular American musicians of the era whose music relied heavily on acoustic guitar were feeling the stress. Yet the idea of any modification to the guitar’s body, such as drilling the hole to install an endpin jack, was unacceptable to many.
Yet, when a relatively new acoustic guitar company introduced an innovative, bridge-mounted pickup system with brown colored control panel that allowed true acoustic tone to be amplified throughout stadium-sized venues, the solution was largely accepted.
At a time when the standard design for acoustic guitars involved spruce tops combined with rosewood or mahogany, the early Takamine acoustic-electric guitar lineup included unique creations such as an all Hawaiian Koa model and a classical guitar-shaped steel-string.
It is in honor of these now validated features and characteristics from Takamine’s early days, that we have designed and hand-crafted THE 60TH and LTD2022.
It is our wish that the story of Takamine’s remarkable journey, from our inspired beginnings to present-day, be seen, felt and heard when experiencing these very special instruments.
General Manager / Product Specialist Makoto Terasaki
Takamine Gakki Co, Ltd.
Takamine Guitars