TAKGX11MENS vs TAKGX18CENS — Compare
Takamine GX11ME NS W/GIG BAG acoustic vs Takamine GX18CE NS W/GIG BAG acoustic
The GX11ME is an all-mahogany mini guitar optimized for pure portability and focused tone, while the GX18CE is a cutaway with a solid spruce top that projects more volume and offers better upper-fret access. Choose the GX11ME if you prioritize compact size and warm intimacy; choose the GX18CE if you want fuller projection, a cutaway, and more versatile amplified playability.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Specs side by side
| Takamine GX11ME NS W/GIG BAG acoustic | Takamine GX18CE NS W/GIG BAG acoustic | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $599.00 | $599.00 |
| Brand | Takamine | Takamine |
| Body | Travel | — |
| Body Type | Hollow | Hollow |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Fretboard | Rosewood | Rosewood |
| Pickup Configuration | Under Saddle | — |
| Bridge | Fixed | Fixed |
| Year | Unknown | Unknown |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Takamine GX11ME NS W/GIG BAG acoustic
- ✓ Fully mahogany construction delivers warm, focused, articulate tone
- ✓ Smallest overall footprint at 943.5mm length—maximum portability
- ✓ No-cutaway design maximizes body mass for acoustic resonance
- ✓ Simpler electronics (TP-4T without EQ) reduce complexity
Why choose Takamine GX18CE NS W/GIG BAG acoustic
- ✓ Solid spruce top with mahogany back/sides yields fuller, more balanced projection
- ✓ Cutaway body grants easy access to upper frets for lead playing and arrangements
- ✓ TP-4T preamp includes 3-band EQ and built-in tuner for live sound tweaking
- ✓ Custom-designed bracing maximizes resonance despite compact 3/4 size
Frequently asked questions
Which guitar plays louder acoustically and amplified?
The GX18CE with its solid spruce top and custom bracing projects more volume and cuts through better both unplugged and plugged in. The GX11ME's all-mahogany build is warmer and more intimate but less projection-focused.
Can I reach high frets comfortably on both?
The GX18CE's cutaway design makes upper-fret access genuinely easier for lead work and complex arrangements. The GX11ME has no cutaway, so reaching the 15th+ frets requires more arm movement.
Which is better for amplified live performance?
The GX18CE excels here: the 3-band EQ on its TP-4T preamp lets you dial in tone for different venues and FOH systems, while the built-in tuner is a practical stage tool. The GX11ME's simpler electronics are more hands-off.
Are both guitars suitable for a beginner?
Yes—both feature 42mm nut width, 21 frets, and friendly scale length. The GX11ME suits players with smaller hands or those prioritizing portability; the GX18CE is better if you want cutaway ergonomics and EQ control to shape your tone as you grow.