Takamine

Description

Takamine GD38CE 12-String Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar: FAQ

Is the Takamine GD38CE good for live gigs?
Yes. Its built-in TP-3G preamp with 3-band EQ and onboard tuner allows direct connection to a PA system or acoustic amplifier, with controls for adjusting the amplified sound to different performance environments.

Which players benefit most from the Takamine GD38CE?
The GD38CE is well suited to players who want the rich, chiming sound of a 12-string for live performance, recording or songwriting. Its cutaway dreadnought body also provides easier access to the upper frets for lead lines and melodic accompaniment.

Is the Takamine GD38CE a worthwhile upgrade from a beginner acoustic guitar?
For players ready to move into a 12-string acoustic-electric, the GD38CE adds a solid spruce top, cutaway dreadnought body and TP-3G electronics with 3-band EQ and an onboard tuner. These features make it particularly well suited to players expanding into 12-string textures, recording and amplified performance.


Combining unmistakable 12-string shimmer with the bold projection and comfortable playability of a cutaway dreadnought, the Takamine GD38CE is a stage-ready powerhouse built for players looking for rich, expansive acoustic tone in a more accessible package. Inspired by Takamine's acclaimed Legacy Series EF381SC, it pairs a solid spruce top with sapele back and sides to deliver the lush, chorus-like voice and powerful projection that have made 12-string acoustics enduring favorites on stage and in the studio. A comfortable mahogany neck with a laurel fingerboard provides a familiar playing experience, while Takamine's TP-3G electronics with a built-in chromatic tuner make it easy to plug in and perform with confidence. Finished in gloss black and complete with an included Takamine GBXW gig bag, the GD38CE is equally ready for rehearsals, recording sessions and live performance.

Solid Spruce Top and Dreadnought Body for Expansive 12-String Tone

The GD38CE derives its unmistakable voice from a solid spruce top paired with sapele back and sides, producing the rich harmonic complexity, shimmering highs and powerful projection that define a great 12-string acoustic. Its cutaway dreadnought body delivers the bold, full-bodied response players expect while providing comfortable access to the upper frets for lead work and intricate passages. Together, these classic tonewoods and body shape create a balanced, articulate sound that's equally suited to strummed accompaniment, fingerpicked arrangements and dynamic flat-picked leads.

Comfortable Mahogany Neck for Effortless Playability

A mahogany neck provides a stable, comfortable foundation for navigating all 12 strings, while the laurel fingerboard offers a smooth, familiar playing surface that responds naturally to both rhythm and lead techniques. A 25.35" scale length and 1.87" nut width provide comfortable string spacing without feeling cumbersome, making complex chord voicings and expressive playing more approachable. Whether you're accompanying a vocalist or adding rich textures to a full band arrangement, the GD38CE is designed to feel comfortable through long rehearsals and performances.

TP-3G Electronics for Confident Live Performance

Takamine's TP-3G preamp makes it easy to take the GD38CE from the practice room to the stage without sacrificing its natural acoustic character. A responsive three-band EQ allows you to fine-tune bass, middle and treble frequencies to suit your instrument, amplifier or venue, while the built-in chromatic tuner provides quick, accurate tuning whenever you need it. Whether plugged into a PA system or an acoustic amplifier, the TP-3G delivers dependable amplified tone with the straightforward controls working musicians appreciate.

Classic Takamine Style and Reliable Hardware

Inspired by Takamine's acclaimed Legacy Series EF381SC, the GD38CE captures the timeless look of one of the brand's most respected stage 12-strings while making it accessible to a wider range of players. Its gloss black finish, crisp white body binding and elegant appointments create a bold stage presence, while a durable laurel bridge and reliable closed-gear tuning machines provide dependable performance night after night. An included Takamine GBXW gig bag completes the package, offering convenient protection for rehearsals, performances and travel wherever your music takes you.

A Stage-Ready 12-String Built to Inspire

Whether you're adding lush harmonic texture to a solo performance, filling out a full-band mix or recording expansive acoustic arrangements, the Takamine GD38CE 12-string acoustic-electric guitar delivers the unmistakable sound and dependable performance that have made the brand a favorite of working musicians. From its solid spruce top and comfortable cutaway dreadnought body to its TP-3G electronics and Legacy Series-inspired styling, every detail is designed to help you play with confidence. The result is a versatile 12-string that brings Takamine's renowned stage-ready character to more players than ever before.

Takamine GD38CE 12-String Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar - Black
Takamine GD38CE 12-String Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar - Black
Takamine GD38CE 12-String Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar - Black

Features

  • 12-string cutaway dreadnought with solid spruce top and TP-3G electronics
  • Solid spruce top provides clear articulation, projection and dynamic response
  • Sapele back and sides add warmth and focused midrange character
  • Dreadnought body delivers full projection for strumming and ensemble playing
  • Cutaway design provides easier upper-fret access for chords and melodic work
  • Mahogany neck supports stability and comfortable 12-string playability
  • Laurel fingerboard provides a smooth, responsive playing surface
  • Takamine TP-3G electronics provide 3-band EQ for amplified tone shaping
  • Built-in chromatic tuner allows quick, convenient tuning
  • Gloss black finish and Legacy Series-inspired appointments recall the EF381SC
  • Included Takamine GBXW gig bag provides protection for storage and transport

Specs

General
  • Product type: Acoustic-electric guitar
  • String type: Steel
  • Series: G Series
  • Model: GD38CE
Body
  • Body size class: Dreadnought
  • Cutaway: Yes
  • Body construction: Solid top
  • Top material: Solid spruce
  • Back material: Sapele
  • Side material: Sapele
  • Body finish: Gloss
  • Color: Black
Neck
  • Neck material: Mahogany
  • Scale length: 25.35"
Fingerboard
  • Fingerboard material: Laurel
  • Nut width: 1.87"
Hardware
  • Bridge material: Laurel
  • Tuning machines: Closed gear
Electronics
  • Pickup system: Takamine TP-3G
  • Preamp: Takamine TP-3G
  • EQ: 3-band
  • Tuner: Yes
Strings
  • Number of strings: 12
Other
  • Orientation: Right handed
  • Case: GBXW gig bag

Warranty

Limited lifetime warranty on Japan-made, G Series, and Jasmine products.
5 year limited warranty on Jasmine Studio products.
No warrany on electronics or plating.
Warranty terms vary. Check with manufacturer for specific product warranty.

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