The Takamine EG523SC G Series super jumbo cutaway model features a solid spruce top and flame maple back and sides for a big, deep sound with plenty of power.
Takamine’s TK-40 Preamplifier found on G-Series EG523 SC guitar features volume control, bass, middle and treble frequency slider controls, EQ bypass, a Notch Filter and a Mid Contour Switch. The Notch Filter acts as a feedback frequency limiter, reducing the chance of feedback by notching out the feedbacking frequency.
The TK-40 replaces the original TK-4N preamp found on older the older Takamine 523.
Specifications
Body Shape: Jumbo C/A
Rosette: Abalone
Top: Solid Spruce
Inlays: Block MOP and Abalone
Back: Flamed Maple Sides:
Flamed Maple Fingerboard: Rosewood
Electronics: TK4NT
Tuners: Chrome
Review
The EG523SC is one of Takamine’s entry-level guitars and is manufactured in Korea.
The front of the EG523SC is solid spruce front with a laminated maple back and sides. The flamed outer veneers are edged in colour co-ordinating cream binding. The maple neck is a slightly darker shade and lacquered to a high gloss. With Takamine’s usual slim profile the neck maintains an almost constant depth giving a comfortable accessible grip at all positions. The fingerboard is made with rosewood and has pearl block inlays. The frets have a very smooth finish, and the fret board itself has a smooth playable feel. The string spacing at the bridge is almost up to the standard 55mm – slightly wider than the Takamine norm. The sound hole rosette is decorated with a wide inlay ring of abalone and the large tortie pick guard is another distinguishing feature.
The EG’s TK40 three-band preamp is an upgrade of the previous TK4N system which has been remodelled into Takamine’s slot-in housing. The pre-amp features a switchable mid contour and notch filter, and the onboard tuner – which responds promptly and accurately – is upgraded to a digital one with an LCD read-out. The unit’s only drawback, as with all similar Takamine preamps, is a very oblique view of the controls because of the shoulder mounting.
Sounds
Sustained warmth and richness in the low end and plenty of bright-edged tones. The jumbo frame offers plenty of volume and strumming fills a room even when unplugged. The pre-amp offers plenty of scope for fine-tuning which delivers remarkably decent sounds and all the necessary buttons, knobs and sliders to do it with.
Verdict
A attractive all rounder with a solid build which delivers warmth and body in a variety of tones.
Takamine prices for delivery to the UK & Europe
