Takamine PTU108K Acoustic/Electric Natural 1994
Takamine PTU108K, natural gloss, made in Japan 1994. I love these 90s koa Takas, they're such beautiful little guitars. Hawaiian koa is so rare these days that it can fetch up to US$60k for a cubic meter, so you don't tend to get acoustic guitars under $3k made from this stuff any more. This is a lovely little folk size guitar, with a body shape similar to a Maton 808 or Martin 00. The grain on show is gorgeous, both in colour and detail. The snowflake inlays and seven-ply binding tie it all together nicely; it's very cute. The sound is dry, articulate and even, with a defined midrange chirp and a sweet high end. The Palathetic pickup system was top-end at the time, and it works very nicely; it's got separate sensors for each string and things come out sounding pretty balanced and warm. If you're after a super agreeable guitar to play live, or a comfy couch companion, this is a stunning little option.
Model: Takamine PTU108K
Made: 1994, Sakashita Japan
Serial: 44072232
Finish: natural, gloss poly
Body: Hawaiian koa top, back and sides, 'thin body' size, 376mm across, 104mm deep
Neck: mahogany, rosewood fretboard, 24.8" scale, 16" radius, 43mm nut, 14th fret join, slim C shape
Weight: 2.085kg
Mods: none
Pickup: CT-4Bii preamp + 'Palathetic' system
Accessories: hard case
Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has light scuffs on the back and front around the tuners. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor rub wear only. The back has light scuffs on the shoulders, middle of the body and back edge; no major marks. The sides have minor scuffs around the preamp and some fading/clouding of the clear coat, no major marks. The front has some clouding of the clear coat around the back and top edges, dimples on the shoulders and some play wear around the sound hole
Overall: excellent condition (8.5/10)
Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good. Setup with 11/52 Moonshiners strings.
Fret Life: 8/10, minor wear only