The fact that
Takamine Guitars of all Japanese brands probably have the best reputation is not least due to international superstars such as
Bruce Springsteen, the
Eagles or
Jon Bon Jovi, who have been playing these noble and roadworthy instruments on the stages of the world for many years. The name
Takamine has now become an integral part of the ranks of
top-class western guitars, but it all began in 1959 with a small guitar shop in the shadow of
Mount Takamine in
central Japan. The small family business started to build
classical guitars and
mandolins under its present name in 1962. The classical guitar maker
Masse Hirade started to improve construction and production methods decisively when he joined the company in 1968. Within the next ten years he helped
Takamine Guitars to gain the international reputation of a
leading Far Eastern instrument manufacturer. Later, the
Hirade Takamine Series was named after him. A series of high quality master class concert guitars.
Innovation from the Far East
Unlike other Asian companies, Takamine did not limit itself to copying successful ideas from Western manufacturers, but over the years has repeatedly developed
independent and
pioneering concepts, such as the
Cool Tube Pickup for acoustic guitars or the use of
laser technology for inlays.
Bassists also get their money's worth with the
bass guitars from the Japanese manufacturer.
Meanwhile Takamine produces his cheaper guitar models in
China and
South Korea. The legendary
Limited Editions, which have been published annually since 1987, are still built in
Japan and inspire guitarists around the globe with their
fantastic sound and the
first-class craftsmanship, that made Takamine great.
