1977 Takamine F-400 12-Strinbg Dreadnought Guitar

This beaut is a '77 F-400, made in Japan, and because there's no S on the.end of that model number, we know it means that this thing is an all-ply wonder in the manner of Yamaha flattops of the time... but classier and with a nicer neck. I mean, handling-wise, these guitars feel just like a Martin from the time, for the most part. The neck cut and dimensions are very close.

It's a lighter build, overall, though, and of course the sound is a little airier and more even-toned and clean. A Martin of the same general specs, with solid wood throughout, would be a lot darker and more brooding in the mids. More like... a grand piano! Less like... a good spinet!

Yes, well, I do like these guitars.

It was in for a fret level/dress and setup and got a minor bridge shave/mod and full compensation added to its bone saddle. Of course it plays like a champ, now.