1983 Takamine E-9-0

Mass Hirade, the founder of Takamine Guitars, was an outstanding designer of classical guitars, and Takamine's top of the line Hirade classicals list for over $4000. However, he also was an innovator in the use of electronic amplification of the classical sound. One result was the E-9-0, the versatility of which is obvious in its use in everything from formal classical concerts (especially in difficult acoustic venues) to recording acoustic versions of many pop classics. The craftsmanship and attention to detail seen in the Hirade top Takamine models is still evident in the durability and wonderful sound of this great classical guitar after more than three decades of constant play.

The E-9-0 has a classical structure in its bracing with a single soft cutaway to allow easier access to the upper frets. It has a solid spruce top and beautiful Indian Rosewood back and sides, resulting in a clear, bright sound in the upper registers without the loss of any resonance in the lower notes. The body is fully bound with an additional colored wood purfling on both top and back, and the rosette at the unique oval sound hole is similarly inlaid in contrasting fine woods. The mahogany neck supports a 12/19-fret ebony fingerboard, and the wrap-around bridge is rosewood to match the back and sides. The classical slotted headstock is set off with gold tuners with pearloid buttons, completing the picture of a quality instrument.

The addition of the outstanding three-band Parametric preamp gives the musician the option to play amplified—although the guitar sounds great without it in a suitable space. In a larger auditorium, a club with noise and distractions, or just an acoustically challenged room, this option can enhance or even save a performance. This was cutting edge equipment in the 1980s, and it still is well beyond many new built-in preamps' capabilities.

Structurally, this guitar is now in very good condition, with no loose braces and no neck or bridge issues. Cosmetically, it is obvious that it has been played frequently and vigorously, with a few dings, scratches, and finish blemishes. More obviously, there are two splices in the top wood (visible in the pictures) which were created “by a master luthier in California” according to the previous owner.

The bad news is that these signs of “experience” are visible; the good news is that this enthusiastic playing has helped to open up the wood, producing a resonance which would not be available from a guitar kept spotless in somebody's closet. And of course it also means you will not be paying the $1800 or more you would have to pay for a new instrument of anywhere near this quality, and you won't have to play it for twenty years to season it yourself. This is a high end instrument made with exceptional tone woods. It plays and sounds wonderful, and the electronics are phenomenal as well.

The case is actually a Road Runner classical hard shell case in virtually new condition. The exterior has almost no bruises or dings, and the plush interior is spotless. Obviously, the latches and hinges are all shiny and fully functional, and the heavily padded vinyl handle is a comfort. It is an excellent complement to this vintage instrument, and of course offers outstanding protection.

Buyer pays a flat rate of $55 for insurance and shipping to the lower 48 states; shipping costs elsewhere will be negotiated as necessary. Payment by Paypal is preferred; cashier’s checks are acceptable, but checks must clear before the guitar will be shipped.

I have made every effort to describe and illustrate this vintage guitar and its case with scrupulous accuracy. Please check out the pictures and ask any questions before bidding, as its return will not be accepted unless it can be shown that it was egregiously misrepresented in this listing.

Thank you for your interest in this wonderful instrument.