TAKGB30CEBLK-B vs TAKGB72CEBSB-B — Compare

Takamine GB30CE-BLK G-Series Acoustic Electric Bass in Black Finish B-Stock vs Takamine GB72CE-BSB G-Series Acoustic Electric Bass in Brown Sunburst Finish B-Stock

The GB30CE-BLK offers a shorter 864mm scale with a Venetian cutaway optimized for upper-fret access and studio work, while the GB72CE-BSB features a longer 34-inch (864mm equivalent) scale, flame maple construction, and rosewood fretboard for warmer, more articulate tone. Choose the GB30CE-BLK if you prioritize cutaway comfort and studio clarity; pick the GB72CE-BSB if you want richer woody tone and a traditional rosewood playing surface.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

Takamine GB30CE-BLK G-Series Acoustic Electric Bass in Black Finish B-Stock

$639.20
View Takamine GB30CE-BLK G-Series Acoustic Electric Bass in Black Finish B-Stock

Takamine GB72CE-BSB G-Series Acoustic Electric Bass in Brown Sunburst Finish B-Stock

$719.20
View Takamine GB72CE-BSB G-Series Acoustic Electric Bass in Brown Sunburst Finish B-Stock

Specs side by side

Takamine GB30CE-BLK G-Series Acoustic Electric Bass in Black Finish B-StockTakamine GB72CE-BSB G-Series Acoustic Electric Bass in Brown Sunburst Finish B-Stock
Price$639.20$719.20
BrandTakamineTakamine
Body TypeHollowHollow
Strings44
FretboardRosewoodRosewood
Pickup ConfigurationUnder SaddleUnder Saddle
YearUnknownUnknown
ConditionRefurbishedRefurbished

Why choose Takamine GB30CE-BLK G-Series Acoustic Electric Bass in Black Finish B-Stock

  • Venetian cutaway design excels for accessing upper frets in live and studio settings
  • Mahogany back and sides with spruce top delivers warm, balanced low end
  • Laurel fingerboard is durable and requires less maintenance than rosewood
  • Professional TK-40B preamp with full EQ and bass-boost for tone shaping

Why choose Takamine GB72CE-BSB G-Series Acoustic Electric Bass in Brown Sunburst Finish B-Stock

  • Flame maple back and sides produce warmer, woodier tone with articulate punch
  • Rosewood fingerboard offers traditional feel and aesthetic appeal
  • 16-inch radius neck provides modern comfort across all playing styles
  • Full 34-inch scale length maintains classic bass proportions and sustain
Bottom line: Studio professionals and session players who need upper-fret access should choose the GB30CE-BLK; jazz and folk players seeking woody articulation and traditional rosewood playability will prefer the GB72CE-BSB.

Frequently asked questions

What's the scale length difference and does it matter?

Both instruments share the same 864mm scale length. The key difference is the GB30CE-BLK has a Venetian cutaway for easier upper-fret access, while the GB72CE-BSB uses a traditional jumbo body without cutaway, emphasizing tone and sustain.

Which has a warmer, darker tone?

The GB72CE-BSB produces a warmer, woodier tone due to its flame maple back and sides paired with the rosewood fingerboard and bridge. The GB30CE-BLK prioritizes balanced, studio-grade clarity with mahogany construction.

Are the preamps and electronics the same?

Yes, both feature the identical Takamine TK-40B preamp with 3-band EQ, bass-boost, mid-shift, gain controls, and integrated tuner. The difference lies in the acoustic construction that feeds into the preamp.

Which is better for fingerstyle versus pick playing?

The GB72CE-BSB excels at both with its articulate, punchy character designed for picked lines and fingerpicked passages alike. The GB30CE-BLK is versatile but optimized for studio sessions where tonal control and fret access matter most.

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