The Takamine Story
Discover the story behind Takamine, six decades of innovation, craftsmanship and dedication to building world-class acoustic guitars for players everywhere.
For over sixty years, Takamine has remained committed to the craft of building exceptional acoustic guitars. A passion for innovation and refinement has earned global acclaim, making us a top choice for professional musicians around the world. From modest beginnings as a family-run workshop at the base of Mount Takamine, the company adopted its iconic name and embarked on a journey that would shape its legacy as one of Japan’s most respected guitar makers.
Driven by a spirit of creativity and a deep respect for traditional luthiery, Takamine has pioneered numerous advancements in acoustic guitar design, most notably in electro-acoustic technology. The company’s introduction of the Palathetic pickup in the late 1970s set a new standard for live acoustic performance, while later innovations such as the CTP-3 CoolTube™ preamp and split-saddle bridge helped redefine tone and playability. Over the decades, Takamine’s dedication to quality craftsmanship has been matched by its close collaboration with artists, leading to a range of signature models and professional endorsements.
This timeline outlines our evolution throughout the years.
1959
Takamine was founded in December 1959 as "Ozhone Musical Instrument Manufacturing" in the Nagoya region. After nearly being destroyed by Typhoon Vera, the small family-run shop relocated and focused on building classical guitars.
1962
Inspired by the view of Mount Takamine from his new workshop in Sakashita, founder Ozhone renamed the company "Takamine Musical Instruments Manufacturing Co., Ltd." The company expanded to 30 staff and began gaining local recognition.
1968
Master luthier Mass Hirade joined Takamine as chief developer and production manager, introducing significant innovations in design and production. Notable team members at the time included Mitsuo Furui and Mituyasu Ohno
1970
Mass Hirade became president, working to expand Takamine's global presence. This vision included a partnership with American distributor KMCMusicorp, extending the brand’s reach beyond Japan.
1977
Guitarist Glenn Frey of the Eagles used a Takamine EF400S 12-string model to record the intro to "Hotel California," boosting Takamine's international visibility. Ichiro Katayama succeeded Hirade as company president.
1978
Takamine introduced its revolutionary Palathetic pickup—an under-saddle system with six individually shielded piezo transducers—setting a new standard in acoustic-electric amplification.
1979
The first production guitar featuring the Palathetic pickup, the PT-007S, was released. Ry Cooder was among the first artists to use the early prototypes and influenced the pickup’s refinement.
1987
The Limited Edition series was launched, offering yearly runs of exclusive, handcrafted guitars featuring unique themes, custom electronics, and elaborate inlay work.
1988
Takamine introduced preamp innovations, including the AAP with parametric EQ and the Korg-designed DSP model with onboard reverb and user presets. These debuted the modular “SoundChoice” system.
1990s
The 1990s saw collaborations with Steve Wariner, Garth Brooks, and John Jorgenson, resulting in Takamine’s first signature models. In 1993, laser-guided CNC machines enhanced the company’s intricate inlay capabilities. Takamine also introduced models such as the Supernatural, Nashville, Tradition, and Hirade. The G-Series was also launched, offering more affordable instruments produced outside Japan under Takamine’s quality standards.
2004
The CT (Cool Tube) preamp series was introduced, incorporating valve-powered circuitry for warmer amplified tone.
2005
Takamine opened a new, state-of-the-art headquarters and main factory in Sakashita, reaffirming its roots while continuing to innovate.
2008-2012
Signature models for artists Kenny Chesney (2008), Glenn Frey (2009), and Toby Keith (2012) were introduced, further cementing Takamine’s close ties with leading performers.
Today
Takamine remains a globally respected brand, trusted by artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Bruno Mars, Bon Jovi, The Eagles, Biffy Clyro, Garth Brooks, and Dave Stewart.
A masterfully crafted limited edition OM cutaway guitar, showcasing a harmonious blend of premium materials and elegant design