Thanks again and I am going to drive to Halifax, Nova scotia this week (250=kms. as that's my nearest Music store. I love my old taki that much and the memories are so good of when I bought it? I was just going on 3 years clean and sober and I saved up the money to buy if and I am forever thankful that I did. Cheers again, Jimmy (Scotty)
Wow that's a long drive to go to a music store! You might want to call them beforehand just to check that they have somebody who can work on Takamines - the electronics are one thing but the palathetic pickup is quite unique and not all techs are familiar with them.
+GLB Productions I was thinking of replacing the CT4B II with the CT4 DX because of the 18v system and the filters that can reduce feed back. You do such a great job of explaining everything
Nice review. One thing, surely the output of the guitar preamp (being buffered, low impedance) is eminently suitable and indeed perfect for plugging directly into a line input of the mixer, no direct box is needed and it's just another stage of electronics (a buffer) for the guitar signal to go through.
Di for live performances mostly, long cable runs to desk. But you can also send a dry signal to desk and parallel out of di to stage amp, that you can control your own desired mix. Get fancy, mike amp on second channel at desk and the sound engineer can mix the two channels together to his taste. Di’s are a very interesting tool with imagination
As being a sound engineer, you might think that I’d go for the dx version. Rather, I prefer the simple preamp like this one and use the desk to eq sound to suit different rooms. I’m just about to buy one of these to replace my cool tube 1 that has died, and I never really liked anyway. Cool tube sounded thin, unnatural. Took a lot of desk work before I was happy enough.
Also Thank you so much for waking me up to bypassing the old preamp. It actually sounds cleaner then when the Accuracoustic worked. I am starting to think of alternatives now like a D/I box from lr baggs I think they call venue. Thanks again.
Michael Haack You're welcome. Yes the venue is definitely an option, as is any high quality active DI box with a sufficiently high input impedance. You want a minimum of 1 megohm, 10 megohms being a good option to have when dealing with the piezo nature of the pickup.
Thanks Steve. Like all electronics they don't last forever, and they are not really intended to be repaired. Having said that, I have several of these units that have lasted more than 10 years and are still working perfectly.
Thank you. That was a very thorough review. I have this model preamp on a Takamine Supernatural and the more recent Takamine New Yorker. It's nice to see how other folks use them. I'm still a novice/intermediate guitar player and always looking for new ideas for sound. Thanks again.
- You're welcome, thanks for watching. I still feel that the CT4B II is the best preamp Takamine make for playing live - simple, easy to use and sounds good at pretty much any setting so even if the controls get moved by accident (and we all know that happens!) you won't be stuck with a sound that is unusable. Add the accurate, fast-responding tuner and you have a winner!
Me tira uma dúvida eu tenho um Takamine Chinês GD71com o TK40, fazer a troca por esse captador CT- 4BII é possível? Será que o som fica próximo ao Takamine P3 DC?
Via google translate: Não, o pré-amplificador CT4BII é projetado apenas para uso em guitarras japonesas com o sistema de captação palatético. As guitarras da série G têm um tipo diferente de captador.
Thanks for the great review! Can I ask if you have tried this preamp with the Zoom AC2 pedal and if so, what were your thoughts on compatibility? I don't like the typical Piezo "quack" and my new Takamine P3NY Parlor guitar (due for delivery soon) is fitted with this the CT4BII. Wondering if the AC2 will make the Piezo sound more natural when combined with the CT4BII? Thanks in advance. Look forward to a reply.
Hello John, have you watched my Zoom AC-2 review? In that video I demo a Takamine CP3NYK with the CT4BII preamp, very similar to your P3NY. I suspect you will find your answer there: ua-cam.com/video/nh63if8Se4g/v-deo.html
Very good review (as always!). As a pro, would you see a need to have an external preamp when you have a CT4BII in your acoustic guitar? I use P3DC and for me it's the best pre I've ever had! Congratulations on your videos!
I have experimented with many different setups over the years and found that these preamps work well both with and without external preamps. Sometimes I will run straight into a direct box, other times I will use something like a Zoom AC-2 or Boss AD-3, depending on the features that I need for that particular gig.
Thank you very much for the answers, your channel has opened my mind a lot on technical issues, and you always answer the questions. I pass it (ct4bii or ctp2) by reverb pedal, boost and then by IMP2 Direct, I've liked the result.
I’m getting my Accuracoustic repaired - hopefully it works afterwards. How would that preamp compare to this CT4B-II? My guess is they would be very similar sounding.
Hmm, I've never used the Accuracoustic - it was already discontinued when I got into Takamine guitars about 12 years ago. But yes I suspect it will sound similar, although the EQ is rather different with the semi-parametric midrange.
Just installed the CT4B11 in my "98 Santa Fe Tak Thanks to Connie Brown from B@J Music Distributors In Montreal for the great service.Great video with very clear explanations
That's a very good sound plug in but do you need all that fancy gadgets like Mackie and Radio JDI passive box , can I just plugged into acoustic amp and get that professional recording sound ? I have the Takamine Ef341SC guitar btw also do you use light guage strings ?
Hi I have another question to ask , was your new guitar truss rod very loose like lubricated ? My Takamine guitar was brand new shipped to me this way I thought it was ruined because the neck begin to bow and the string was buzzing very bad and I couldn't straightened the neck so then I sold it but the buyer return it o me and I kept it in my basement for close to 10 years , when I play it last month miraculously the neck had straightened itself out. Usually I play a lighter guage 11-52 I want to change gauges but afraid it might change the neck angle again. So I was wondering is this normal for Takamine guitar to have a very lubricated truss rod in brand new condition ?
No I've never experienced that and I've owned over 10 different Taks. Don't worry about changing from 52s to 53s - the neck will adapt and you may need to adjust the truss rod a bit to compensate. It's a good idea to learn how to do this correctly and your guitar will thank you.
Hi, im back again but this time is about selecting a guitar. I tried the Takamine GN71CE-BSB with TK40D. I just want to ask your opinion about this guitar and would you recommend it, price range between 540-580euros. Thanks, hope to hear from you. PS: pls let me know any recommendation on this price range.
+Evan Paglinawan Hello Evan, nice to hear from you. I'm afraid that I haven't played this guitar before so cannot offer you a direct opinion. In general the G-series are fine guitars, although I personally always recommend that people buy a second hand Japanese Takamine in good condition in preference to a new G-series model. There is a substantial difference IMO, plus you are getting the Palathetic pickup which is only available in the Japanese Taks.
+GLB Productions, Hello Sir, i searched the ebay and your guitar is an expensive Japanese Takamine but for now ill stick on the GN71CE as i can afford at the moment though when i tried it, it sounds really good as for the Martins. I hope in the near future i can own a good Japanese made Takamine brand. Thank you again Sir and more reviews to come.
I was thinking of replacing my CT4B II to the CTP-2 "COOL TUBE do you think this is a good idea. I think the CT4B sounds very electric "non acoustic" one of my other acoustic's has a Fishman pre amp and it sounds more acoustic.
- The cool tube is generally considered an upgrade to the CT4BII in terms of sound, but I much prefer the EQ on the latter. If you like the sound of the Fishman preamp perhaps you could upgrade to one of those, or use an outboard preamp?
I have a Tak EF325SRC that was fitted with a CTB II in 2004. I love the preamp but they had to do a little surgery to get it in. The "Barn door" system you describe above on my amp is flat and the guitar body is slightly curved. This means that both sides of the barn door are raised and are above the body. Annoying when you want it perfect. Is it possible to get a curved barn door like on some of the other amps and snap the CTB II back inside it? Or do I need to get a different preamp. Any suggestions are helpful.
I had a look at one of my Taks and the barn door aka sound choice docking port is curved to follow the contours of the side of the guitar perfectly. I suspect that there may be difference models for different sized guitars as the curvature of say an OM would probably be different to that of a dreadnought. I would contact your nearest Takamine dealer and ask them if they have any more information about this issue. I know what you mean - I would want the edges of the preamp to fit flush too!
Hi' there, I have a EF360S Takamine 1979-80? and my 'two slide preamp (Gain and EQ) has been let sit and 'waste' for a couple of years. I tried cleaning it with Contacts Spray, which did a wee bit of good, but I feel I have to replace it .. I'm told that the Takamine CT4DX or the Tak.CT4BII is a match for the Palethetic pickup?? I know nothing about electrics and approach you for any advice you might offer, thank you in advance.
Yes, the Palathetic pickup (found on all Japanese-made Takamine guitars) will interface will the CT4BII, CT4DX and Cool Tube preamps. In the case of your guitar however, you will need to do some woodworking to enlarge the preamp opening in order to accommodate the larger preamps. If you don't want to do this, it is possible to install something like the line driver preamp, which has no external controls, bypassing the existing preamp. I suggest that you also take a look over at takamineforum.com/ - many very knowledgeable people over there, including some luthiers, who can give you good advice.
Thank you so much for your reply and the information requested. I tried to join the Taki' Forum, but the psychadelic Confirmation Code defeated my 72 year old eyes, I thought I was back at 'Woodstock' LoL! May I ask another question, how do I remove the old Two Slide Preamp from my EF360S as I've searched for 'wee toattie screws etc., and found nothing. Do you know? Thank you again for your assistance.
Springburn Jimmy Reid Hi Jimmy sorry you haven't had any success with the forum, I will contact the admin person and see what they can do for you. I'm afraid that I don't know how to remove that preamp - I would recommend that you take it to your nearest guitar repair shop if possible. There is probably some sort of clip system on the inside of the guitar which is easy enough to use once you know how!
Hello, shame I am not able to buy one of these. What is the deal with KMC being able to order the preamps and being on backorder? I was told via email that Takamine(via askus@takamine) did indeed have the CT4B ll and yet KMC has them on backorder.
Michael Haack Unfortunately that's how it is sometimes when dealing with a distributor - in Singapore we are able to deal directly with Takamine Japan and have no such issues.
@@GLBProductions it had an AccurAcoustic -I took a chance and bought the CT4BII - fits and works perfectly.Thanks and keep up the great videos - you are a lot of help.
@@gtrslinger6262 You're welcome! Yes the CT4BII is a direct replacement for the Accuracoustic and any other preamp that size - with the earlier two-slider 'brownie' preamps the opening in the guitar has to be enlarged so it's not such a simple procedure. All the best with your music!
brilliant review, I need to change out my old brown pre-amp for a ct-4B11, but I cannot find a holding chassis for ct-4B11. I would be very grateful if some one could tell me where to buy one...HELP!!
Hi there John, the man to contact is Bill Sutherland - he goes by the name of Mr Takamine USA and he is an expert on the electronics of these guitars. Try mr.takamineusa@gmail.com or on Facebook. I've never met him or bought anything from him, but his reputation is second to none.
George Lai Check the Takamine website to see who is the dealer for your country or region - they deal directly with Takamine Japan and will be able to order a new preamp for you.
i have a question: i have a santa fe, with accouracoustic preamp...will this preamp fit into the existing plastic housing that's there? i have to change that preamp beacuse is now very old, and does not work anymore properly (condenser and operation chip are completely baked...)
- I'm afraid it's not possible - the CT4BII is a single channel preamp. In order to do that you'd need to use either the Cool Tube or CT4-DX preamp. Alternatively you could use an external mixing system to accomplish the same thing.
GLB Productions Thank you for the reply. I must say, I'm now starting to appreciate the simplicity of the CT4BII it really is a excellent preamp. I find myself with nothing else to do but play guitar with a wonderful sound. After u take the MID down to 0 the guitar sounds more acoustic. Thank you very much with ur help. I'm now very happy with Takamine, there guitar's are fantastic.
***** I definitely agree with you there, the CT4BII has everything you need and nothing you don't. Once set it gets out of the way and lets you make great music. Glad you like your Takamine, I suggest you register over at www.takamineforum.com/ to get to know more like minded people :)
The CB4T-II will physically fit into a G-Series Takamine, with, say, the TK-40D preamp, but the pickups are not compatible. The Pro series use the Palathetic style pickup ( 6 individual piezo pickups, 1 per string, dedicated ), which is better than the G-series Piezo style pickup, although the single line Piezo that Takamine uses is quite good. The Palathetic style pickup is screwed into the bridge base, whilst the string piezo""Takamine G Series CP-100 Compensated Integrated Saddle"", where the piezo element is incorporated into the saddle. This is mounted through a single 2mm hole drilled into the bridge. There is also a split saddle version of the CP-100 Compensated/Integrated saddle for the better G-series, such as the GJ72CE 6 & 12 string models with split saddle. I've installed the Cherub G-Tone "GT-6" into my cheaper G-Series GS330S Takamine, solid Cedar top and it sounds very good. If you go that route, you will have to measure, mark and sand down the saddle to accommodate the thickness of the piezo strip that sits directly under the saddle. *****The CB4T-II uses the same mount as the Tk-40D, TP-4T, Accuroustic ( crap ) and several other same physical dimension preamps. Don't be fooled into paying $50, or more, for a dedicated CB4T-II mounting bracket, when you can use the standard G-series brackets to mount the CB4t-II.
Michael Haack Yes these preamps don't last forever. It's possible to test the functionality of the pickup by running the signal directly into an amp using an RCA to 1/4" adapter and routing the cable out of the soundhole - it won't sound great but you should get some sound if the pickup is working.
Ah, Thanks....just so happens I have an adapter....I'm thinking it is probably rare for the under saddle element and wires to corrode especially as well tacked down everything is. What a well made guitar.
TheSpecktator PvP Does the preamp work apart from this? Does it mute the signal when you press the tuner button a second time with the guitar plugged in?
TheSpecktator PvP Very strange - I suspect it's a fault in the turner circuit or something on the circuit board going wrong. I suggest you post your issue over on takamineforum.com - there are some very knowledgeable and experienced people over there who can help you out.
@@GLBProductions Sorry for the very delayed response.... yes it is the CTP-2 (it is in a pro Tak from 2009). Can it be replaced with the CT4Bii without any modifications?
I have no idea, that's why I'm asking you as u r quite knowledgeable. If the volume is all the way up on the guitar does that mean u r controlling it elsewhere? I am asking because I'm looking at buying this Takamine and ur reviews r quite helpful. One more question; how do you know when to change the battery? Seems like there is no warning light r anything. I guess u just hope it is not in the middle of an event? Ty much for your time. Good job.
+nfn16076 I have found that leaving the volume up all the way gives the best signal to noise ratio on these preamps, especially when connecting to a PA system through a DI box. You can of course set the volume anywhere you want and the tone will be the same. There's no battery warning light, but in my experience you will know that the battery is weak when the tuner stops working. Fortunately the battery life is extraordinarily long and the battery change takes all of 10 seconds to complete.
Re the matter of plugging in guitars w pre amps into DI box to house PA - yah u gotta turn guitar volume all the way up, I get it now. Thx for clarifying. Also re battery.. Take care :)
Paul Hollands You need to contact the distributor for your country: www.takamine.com/distributors They will be able to tell you the best place to get one. Takamine is going through a major reorganisation at the moment so they may be a bit slow.
+STALIN PÉREZ Have a look at www.takamine.com/distributors and find the distributor for your country - contact them and ask where you can purchase the preamp.
Do you know what years the CT 4B ll were manufactured. I have an 1991 EF360MC. Do the letters mean E, elec., F(?) M(maple) C. cutaway. I replaced the original pre amp (Palethetic) with the CT 4B ll
+Red Adams The CT4B-II preamps are still being made and are considered the entry level preamp for Japanese-made Takamines. The word palathetic refers to the pickup, which is located under the bridge of the guitar and is not user-serviceable or replaceable. The preamp on the other hand refers to the electronics panel that you can see. For your other question I suggest you search www.takamineforum.com - lots of very knowledgeable people, including at least one former Takamine product manager.
Ryan @ Takamine has informed me that there is a lawsuit that they are involved in for the reason KMC can't get the preamps....says when it's over they can send them again. smh.
This CT 4 B II preamp - was defective on my guitar .... Company does not respond ! And this (made in China) preamp cost on e-bay 200 dollars.... Really sorry I bought guitar from this company...
+Nikolay Ryzhikov Yes the preamps are definitely not as well-made as the guitars. If yours was a new guitar the preamp is covered by the warranty - Takamine will not respond directly, you need to go through the dealer where you purchased the guitar.
+GLB Productions It is interesting ... If Takamine does NOT answer to customer PERSONALLY why they encourage to “CONTACT US” on www.takamine.com and in “Required Fields"ask for the First Name and Last Name ? Not just about a seller, or serial # So, if they DO NOT WANT to honor their TWO YEARS WARRANTY - they they can a way NOT TO FIX a problem
Hey mate I've just been looking into this myself. Had to replace the same pre on my Japanese PTU after owning the guitar for many years (about 10 years) After going back to the dealer where I bought it from and him installing the brand new replacement pre at the shop, I noticed a delay in the signal after un-muting after tuning, a bit annoying but otherwise did what it was supposed to do so I just got on with it. After less than a couple of years use, one of the LED's would sort of stay faintly lit even after new battery replacement just to check. And now the low end has disappeared and the sound is all scratchy, raspy and tinny. Bottom end does not work properly if at all. I have had the replacement pre-amp for just over 3 years and I am very disappointed too because, as you mentioned I had to resort to talking to a local dealer only for them to inform me my warranty has run out and they can't go any further with any support from the company. 10 years for the original pre-amp V's less than 3 years for a supposedly same quality replacement. Very dissapointed, even the two who ordered the replacement commented that indeed having to replace the pre-amp after 10 years was impressive but 3 years for the new replacement is just rude and dissapointing at the least. I know this is an older thread but I hope you read this and maybe I can get an update on how you overcame your issue? Regards Richie.
Thanks for watching! Yes I agree that the preamp sounds different to the acoustic sound, but in a live setting it can actually sound quite natural - much better than having a mic that feeds back all the time ;)
I was trying to figure out what that little port was on the preamp and you covered it right away, thank you!
You're welcome Mike!
Beautiful sounding guitar and pickup. Sounds so lively! Another excellent video my friend.
+Aaron Adams Yes it's a wonderful instrument - the only dreadnought I have ever been able to relate to! Thanks for watching.
Very thorough explanation of all aspects of the pre-amp. I now understand what it offers on Takamine guitars. Thank you very much.
You're welcome Garrett, glad the video was helpful to you :)
Your video has been very helpful to get to know this beautiful model. Thanks a lot. very good performance. Blessings
You're welcome Willy, thanks for watching :)
Thanks. I'm thinking about buying one of these. Video was very helpful.
You're welcome, glad the video was helpful :)
Very excellent video - this fellow knows what he is talking about!
+William Sutherland thanks for watching.
Awesome demo, substantive and very useful, thank you !!
You're welcome Rick!
You have been so helpful, thanks so much for making this video. 😉👍🏻
You're most welcome 😄
Thanks again and I am going to drive to Halifax, Nova scotia this week (250=kms. as that's my nearest Music store. I love my old taki that much and the memories are so good of when I bought it? I was just going on 3 years clean and sober and I saved up the money to buy if and I am forever thankful that I did. Cheers again, Jimmy (Scotty)
Wow that's a long drive to go to a music store! You might want to call them beforehand just to check that they have somebody who can work on Takamines - the electronics are one thing but the palathetic pickup is quite unique and not all techs are familiar with them.
that's Great! I have the Takamine CT4B II in my EF360 and you clear explanations have ehelped me greatly! thanks!
+David McGhee You're most welcome, the CT4B II is still my favourite Takamine preamp.
+GLB Productions I was thinking of replacing the CT4B II with the CT4 DX because of the 18v system and the filters that can reduce feed back. You do such a great job of explaining everything
David McGhee Fortunately the swap is really easy to do, so the only question is whether you like the sound as compared to the original preamp.
+GLB Productions Very true! and often the sound is guitar specific. thanks
I just picked one up because my old one stopped working thanks for the info very helpful
You're welcome Stephen! All the best with your music :)
Thank you sir ..very informative vid..
Great review . Well done
Thanks for watching James.
Nice review. One thing, surely the output of the guitar preamp (being buffered, low impedance) is eminently suitable and indeed perfect for plugging directly into a line input of the mixer, no direct box is needed and it's just another stage of electronics (a buffer) for the guitar signal to go through.
You are correct! Only thing to bear in mind there is that the signal is unbalanced so cable runs of longer than 5m/15 feet should be avoided.
Di for live performances mostly, long cable runs to desk. But you can also send a dry signal to desk and parallel out of di to stage amp, that you can control your own desired mix. Get fancy, mike amp on second channel at desk and the sound engineer can mix the two channels together to his taste. Di’s are a very interesting tool with imagination
As being a sound engineer, you might think that I’d go for the dx version. Rather, I prefer the simple preamp like this one and use the desk to eq sound to suit different rooms. I’m just about to buy one of these to replace my cool tube 1 that has died, and I never really liked anyway. Cool tube sounded thin, unnatural. Took a lot of desk work before I was happy enough.
Also Thank you so much for waking me up to bypassing the old preamp. It actually sounds cleaner then when the Accuracoustic worked. I am starting to think of alternatives now like a D/I box from lr baggs I think they call venue. Thanks again.
Michael Haack You're welcome. Yes the venue is definitely an option, as is any high quality active DI box with a sufficiently high input impedance. You want a minimum of 1 megohm, 10 megohms being a good option to have when dealing with the piezo nature of the pickup.
This helped me with my TK-40. Thanks!
Glad to hear that. I'm really surprised Takamine haven't done similar instructional videos on their own G-series preamps.
beautiful video. congratulations
- Thank you, I appreciate the support.
Great review! Why do these stop working? Can they be repaired?
Thanks Steve. Like all electronics they don't last forever, and they are not really intended to be repaired. Having said that, I have several of these units that have lasted more than 10 years and are still working perfectly.
- You're welcome, which Tak do you have?
GLB Productions p2dc
Thank you. That was a very thorough review. I have this model preamp on a Takamine Supernatural and the more recent Takamine New Yorker. It's nice to see how other folks use them. I'm still a novice/intermediate guitar player and always looking for new ideas for sound. Thanks again.
- You're welcome, thanks for watching. I still feel that the CT4B II is the best preamp Takamine make for playing live - simple, easy to use and sounds good at pretty much any setting so even if the controls get moved by accident (and we all know that happens!) you won't be stuck with a sound that is unusable. Add the accurate, fast-responding tuner and you have a winner!
Me tira uma dúvida eu tenho um Takamine Chinês GD71com o TK40, fazer a troca por esse captador CT- 4BII é possível? Será que o som fica próximo ao Takamine P3 DC?
Via google translate: Não, o pré-amplificador CT4BII é projetado apenas para uso em guitarras japonesas com o sistema de captação palatético. As guitarras da série G têm um tipo diferente de captador.
Hello I have to replace a Ctp-1 Cool Tube! Can I replace the Ctp-1 with this CT 4B II pre amp? thank you for this video
Yes you can :) Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the great review! Can I ask if you have tried this preamp with the Zoom AC2 pedal and if so, what were your thoughts on compatibility? I don't like the typical Piezo "quack" and my new Takamine P3NY Parlor guitar (due for delivery soon) is fitted with this the CT4BII. Wondering if the AC2 will make the Piezo sound more natural when combined with the CT4BII? Thanks in advance. Look forward to a reply.
Hello John, have you watched my Zoom AC-2 review? In that video I demo a Takamine CP3NYK with the CT4BII preamp, very similar to your P3NY. I suspect you will find your answer there: ua-cam.com/video/nh63if8Se4g/v-deo.html
Thanks so much. I will take a look at that. Appreciate the quick reply. Happy New Year!
Very good review (as always!). As a pro, would you see a need to have an external preamp when you have a CT4BII in your acoustic guitar? I use P3DC and for me it's the best pre I've ever had! Congratulations on your videos!
I have experimented with many different setups over the years and found that these preamps work well both with and without external preamps. Sometimes I will run straight into a direct box, other times I will use something like a Zoom AC-2 or Boss AD-3, depending on the features that I need for that particular gig.
Thank you very much for the answers, your channel has opened my mind a lot on technical issues, and you always answer the questions. I pass it (ct4bii or ctp2) by reverb pedal, boost and then by IMP2 Direct, I've liked the result.
Sounds good - I've even experimented with putting electric guitar pedals after my Takamines 😄
Great tuorial! Thanks!
A tvanp You're welcome, thanks for watching :)
This looks similar to the tuner on my Tak... I'm sure much of it is similar. Thank you!
I’m getting my Accuracoustic repaired - hopefully it works afterwards. How would that preamp compare to this CT4B-II? My guess is they would be very similar sounding.
Hmm, I've never used the Accuracoustic - it was already discontinued when I got into Takamine guitars about 12 years ago. But yes I suspect it will sound similar, although the EQ is rather different with the semi-parametric midrange.
Just installed the CT4B11 in my "98 Santa Fe Tak Thanks to Connie Brown from B@J Music Distributors In Montreal for the great service.Great video with very clear explanations
+Kelly Anderson You're welcome, hope you're enjoying your upgraded guitar!
santa fe takamines are beautiful guitars, i also want to buy the same preamp for my 2003 ean 12 string nex body. Very similar to the Santa Fe
What does the jenson transformer do ?
And what strings are you using.
Thanks
John
In this case it just warms up the signal a bit. The strings are D'Addario EXP 16s (12-53). Thanks for watching!
How do you know if the battery is getting low on voltage?That would be a useful feature.
There is no low battery function on this particular preamp. I agree, it would be a useful feature.
Great review, can the tuner tune to half steps or just regular tuning? We usually tune down half a step for gigs. E flat,
Yeah the tuner is chromatic so you can tune to anything under the sun ;)
GLB Productions fantastic, thank you
That's a very good sound plug in but do you need all that fancy gadgets like Mackie and Radio JDI passive box , can I just plugged into acoustic amp and get that professional recording sound ? I have the Takamine Ef341SC guitar btw also do you use light guage strings ?
Sure, they sound great plugged straight into an acoustic amp! Yes I use the factory string gauge - .012 - .053
Hi I have another question to ask , was your new guitar truss rod very loose like lubricated ? My Takamine guitar was brand new shipped to me this way I thought it was ruined because the neck begin to bow and the string was buzzing very bad and I couldn't straightened the neck so then I sold it but the buyer return it o me and I kept it in my basement for close to 10 years , when I play it last month miraculously the neck had straightened itself out. Usually I play a lighter guage 11-52 I want to change gauges but afraid it might change the neck angle again. So I was wondering is this normal for Takamine guitar to have a very lubricated truss rod in brand new condition ?
No I've never experienced that and I've owned over 10 different Taks. Don't worry about changing from 52s to 53s - the neck will adapt and you may need to adjust the truss rod a bit to compensate. It's a good idea to learn how to do this correctly and your guitar will thank you.
Hi, im back again but this time is about selecting a guitar. I tried the Takamine GN71CE-BSB with TK40D. I just want to ask your opinion about this guitar and would you recommend it, price range between 540-580euros. Thanks, hope to hear from you.
PS: pls let me know any recommendation on this price range.
+Evan Paglinawan Hello Evan, nice to hear from you. I'm afraid that I haven't played this guitar before so cannot offer you a direct opinion. In general the G-series are fine guitars, although I personally always recommend that people buy a second hand Japanese Takamine in good condition in preference to a new G-series model. There is a substantial difference IMO, plus you are getting the Palathetic pickup which is only available in the Japanese Taks.
+GLB Productions, Hello Sir, i searched the ebay and your guitar is an expensive Japanese Takamine but for now ill stick on the GN71CE as i can afford at the moment though when i tried it, it sounds really good as for the Martins. I hope in the near future i can own a good Japanese made Takamine brand. Thank you again Sir and more reviews to come.
I was thinking of replacing my CT4B II to the CTP-2 "COOL TUBE do you think this is a good idea. I think the CT4B sounds very electric "non acoustic" one of my other acoustic's has a Fishman pre amp and it sounds more acoustic.
- The cool tube is generally considered an upgrade to the CT4BII in terms of sound, but I much prefer the EQ on the latter. If you like the sound of the Fishman preamp perhaps you could upgrade to one of those, or use an outboard preamp?
I have a Tak EF325SRC that was fitted with a CTB II in 2004. I love the preamp but they had to do a little surgery to get it in. The "Barn door" system you describe above on my amp is flat and the guitar body is slightly curved. This means that both sides of the barn door are raised and are above the body. Annoying when you want it perfect. Is it possible to get a curved barn door like on some of the other amps and snap the CTB II back inside it? Or do I need to get a different preamp. Any suggestions are helpful.
I had a look at one of my Taks and the barn door aka sound choice docking port is curved to follow the contours of the side of the guitar perfectly. I suspect that there may be difference models for different sized guitars as the curvature of say an OM would probably be different to that of a dreadnought. I would contact your nearest Takamine dealer and ask them if they have any more information about this issue. I know what you mean - I would want the edges of the preamp to fit flush too!
Hi' there, I have a EF360S Takamine 1979-80? and my 'two slide preamp (Gain and EQ) has been let sit and 'waste' for a couple of years. I tried cleaning it with Contacts Spray, which did a wee bit of good, but I feel I have to replace it .. I'm told that the Takamine CT4DX or the Tak.CT4BII is a match for the Palethetic pickup?? I know nothing about electrics and approach you for any advice you might offer, thank you in advance.
Yes, the Palathetic pickup (found on all Japanese-made Takamine guitars) will interface will the CT4BII, CT4DX and Cool Tube preamps. In the case of your guitar however, you will need to do some woodworking to enlarge the preamp opening in order to accommodate the larger preamps. If you don't want to do this, it is possible to install something like the line driver preamp, which has no external controls, bypassing the existing preamp.
I suggest that you also take a look over at takamineforum.com/ - many very knowledgeable people over there, including some luthiers, who can give you good advice.
Thank you so much for your reply and the information requested. I tried to join the Taki' Forum, but the psychadelic Confirmation Code defeated my 72 year old eyes, I thought I was back at 'Woodstock' LoL!
May I ask another question, how do I remove the old Two Slide Preamp from my EF360S as I've searched for 'wee toattie screws etc., and found nothing. Do you know? Thank you again for your assistance.
Springburn Jimmy Reid Hi Jimmy sorry you haven't had any success with the forum, I will contact the admin person and see what they can do for you.
I'm afraid that I don't know how to remove that preamp - I would recommend that you take it to your nearest guitar repair shop if possible. There is probably some sort of clip system on the inside of the guitar which is easy enough to use once you know how!
Hello, shame I am not able to buy one of these. What is the deal with KMC being able to order the preamps and being on backorder? I was told via email that Takamine(via askus@takamine) did indeed have the CT4B ll and yet KMC has them on backorder.
Michael Haack Unfortunately that's how it is sometimes when dealing with a distributor - in Singapore we are able to deal directly with Takamine Japan and have no such issues.
GReat Video! Will this fit in my late 90s FP460SC? Thank you!
What's the existing preamp in there?
@@GLBProductions it had an AccurAcoustic -I took a chance and bought the CT4BII - fits and works perfectly.Thanks and keep up the great videos - you are a lot of help.
@@gtrslinger6262 You're welcome! Yes the CT4BII is a direct replacement for the Accuracoustic and any other preamp that size - with the earlier two-slider 'brownie' preamps the opening in the guitar has to be enlarged so it's not such a simple procedure. All the best with your music!
brilliant review, I need to change out my old brown pre-amp for a ct-4B11, but I cannot find a holding chassis for ct-4B11. I would be very grateful if some one could tell me where to buy one...HELP!!
Hi there John, the man to contact is Bill Sutherland - he goes by the name of Mr Takamine USA and he is an expert on the electronics of these guitars. Try mr.takamineusa@gmail.com or on Facebook. I've never met him or bought anything from him, but his reputation is second to none.
Thanks a mill for the info I will get on it right now
You're welcome John, hope it works out :)
My Takamine CT4B ll acoustic guitar preamp is out of working, can somebody tell me how to order a new one ? and how much the price ?
George Lai Check the Takamine website to see who is the dealer for your country or region - they deal directly with Takamine Japan and will be able to order a new preamp for you.
i have a question: i have a santa fe, with accouracoustic preamp...will this preamp fit into the existing plastic housing that's there? i have to change that preamp beacuse is now very old, and does not work anymore properly (condenser and operation chip are completely baked...)
Yes it will fit no problem :)
Where can I buy the model: CT4b II ? Onde eu posso comprar o modelo ?
Check with your local Takamine distributor :)
Hello,
What is the hole on the bottom of the interface for? Near the volume label.
It allows you to insert a tool in order to release the bottom clip securing the preamp to the docking port :)
Cool! thanks
Can I link a soundhole pickup to the CT4BII LIKE Brad Davis does with the cool tube--then mix the two.
- I'm afraid it's not possible - the CT4BII is a single channel preamp. In order to do that you'd need to use either the Cool Tube or CT4-DX preamp. Alternatively you could use an external mixing system to accomplish the same thing.
GLB Productions Thank you for the reply. I must say, I'm now starting to appreciate the simplicity of the CT4BII it really is a excellent preamp. I find myself with nothing else to do but play guitar with a wonderful sound. After u take the MID down to 0 the guitar sounds more acoustic. Thank you very much with ur help. I'm now very happy with Takamine, there guitar's are fantastic.
***** I definitely agree with you there, the CT4BII has everything you need and nothing you don't. Once set it gets out of the way and lets you make great music. Glad you like your Takamine, I suggest you register over at www.takamineforum.com/ to get to know more like minded people :)
You can put any pre amp to any takamine?my takamine have a TP-4T
No the preamp in this video will only fit the Japanese-made Takamines, not the G-series.
The CB4T-II will physically fit into a G-Series Takamine, with, say, the TK-40D preamp, but the pickups are not compatible. The Pro series use the Palathetic style pickup ( 6 individual piezo pickups, 1 per string, dedicated ), which is better than the G-series Piezo style pickup, although the single line Piezo that Takamine uses is quite good. The Palathetic style pickup is screwed into the bridge base, whilst the string piezo""Takamine G Series CP-100 Compensated Integrated Saddle"", where the piezo element is incorporated into the saddle. This is mounted through a single 2mm hole drilled into the bridge. There is also a split saddle version of the CP-100 Compensated/Integrated saddle for the better G-series, such as the GJ72CE 6 & 12 string models with split saddle. I've installed the Cherub G-Tone "GT-6" into my cheaper G-Series GS330S Takamine, solid Cedar top and it sounds very good. If you go that route, you will have to measure, mark and sand down the saddle to accommodate the thickness of the piezo strip that sits directly under the saddle. *****The CB4T-II uses the same mount as the Tk-40D, TP-4T, Accuroustic ( crap ) and several other same physical dimension preamps. Don't be fooled into paying $50, or more, for a dedicated CB4T-II mounting bracket, when you can use the standard G-series brackets to mount the CB4t-II.
my old AccurAcoustic EQ died out of my fp360s. Will this fit? Thank You.
Michael Haack Yes it will fit - any guitar that has the 'sound choice docking port' will fit the current series of preamps.
Thanks for the info..It should be my only problem as both the 1/8th inch and the spdf connections are well tacked inside the guitar.
Michael Haack Yes these preamps don't last forever. It's possible to test the functionality of the pickup by running the signal directly into an amp using an RCA to 1/4" adapter and routing the cable out of the soundhole - it won't sound great but you should get some sound if the pickup is working.
Ah, Thanks....just so happens I have an adapter....I'm thinking it is probably rare for the under saddle element and wires to corrode especially as well tacked down everything is. What a well made guitar.
ran the adapter out to my loudbox mini and it actually sounded very good!
i have a problem when i press the tuner button it turns on but when i play a string it doesnt show up on the tuner thing no lights or anything
TheSpecktator PvP Does the preamp work apart from this? Does it mute the signal when you press the tuner button a second time with the guitar plugged in?
yes
TheSpecktator PvP Very strange - I suspect it's a fault in the turner circuit or something on the circuit board going wrong. I suggest you post your issue over on takamineforum.com - there are some very knowledgeable and experienced people over there who can help you out.
+GLB Productions thx
Where are you able to purchase one of these
Enquire with the Takamine distributor for your country.
GLB Productions how would I be able to do that
May I know what is the different between CT4B and CT4B II.
- Good question! I have never seen a CT4B preamp, so cannot really help you there. Do you have a picture of one that you could send me?
GLB Productions It's ct4b II older version. Just want to know any different.
- As long as it says 'CT4B-II' it should be identical to the preamp shown in the video.
My CT-2 seems to have died. Anyone know if I can do a direct swap with the CT4Bii without any modications?
You mean CTP-2, ie the cool tube preamp, version 2?
@@GLBProductions Sorry for the very delayed response.... yes it is the CTP-2 (it is in a pro Tak from 2009). Can it be replaced with the CT4Bii without any modifications?
@@acoustically9201 Yes it can.
@@GLBProductions Thank you , on behalf of @acoustically9201
So great tks!
Venilton Silva You're welcome, thanks for watching and happy new year!
Why do u leave the volume all the way up? I'm confused. Ty much
+nfn16076 Where would you set the volume?
I have no idea, that's why I'm asking you as u r quite knowledgeable. If the volume is all the way up on the guitar does that mean u r controlling it elsewhere? I am asking because I'm looking at buying this Takamine and ur reviews r quite helpful. One more question; how do you know when to change the battery? Seems like there is no warning light r anything. I guess u just hope it is not in the middle of an event? Ty much for your time. Good job.
+nfn16076 I have found that leaving the volume up all the way gives the best signal to noise ratio on these preamps, especially when connecting to a PA system through a DI box. You can of course set the volume anywhere you want and the tone will be the same.
There's no battery warning light, but in my experience you will know that the battery is weak when the tuner stops working. Fortunately the battery life is extraordinarily long and the battery change takes all of 10 seconds to complete.
Re the matter of plugging in guitars w pre amps into DI box to house PA - yah u gotta turn guitar volume all the way up, I get it now. Thx for clarifying. Also re battery.. Take care :)
Bruno is the man….🇨🇦👏🏻
Thanks for watching!
Where can I buy one in the UK
Paul Hollands You need to contact the distributor for your country: www.takamine.com/distributors They will be able to tell you the best place to get one. Takamine is going through a major reorganisation at the moment so they may be a bit slow.
please, where I can buy it?
+STALIN PÉREZ Have a look at www.takamine.com/distributors and find the distributor for your country - contact them and ask where you can purchase the preamp.
Do you know what years the CT 4B ll were manufactured. I have an 1991 EF360MC. Do the letters mean E, elec., F(?)
M(maple) C. cutaway. I replaced the original pre amp (Palethetic) with the CT 4B ll
+Red Adams The CT4B-II preamps are still being made and are considered the entry level preamp for Japanese-made Takamines. The word palathetic refers to the pickup, which is located under the bridge of the guitar and is not user-serviceable or replaceable. The preamp on the other hand refers to the electronics panel that you can see. For your other question I suggest you search www.takamineforum.com - lots of very knowledgeable people, including at least one former Takamine product manager.
E=Electric F= Folk
Jaki jest model Takamine odpowiedzieć?
Takamine EF360GF :)
Ryan @ Takamine has informed me that there is a lawsuit that they are involved in for the reason KMC can't get the preamps....says when it's over they can send them again. smh.
This CT 4 B II preamp - was defective on my guitar .... Company does not respond ! And this (made in China) preamp cost on e-bay 200 dollars.... Really sorry I bought guitar from this company...
+Nikolay Ryzhikov Yes the preamps are definitely not as well-made as the guitars. If yours was a new guitar the preamp is covered by the warranty - Takamine will not respond directly, you need to go through the dealer where you purchased the guitar.
+GLB Productions
It is interesting ... If Takamine does NOT answer to customer PERSONALLY why they encourage to “CONTACT US” on www.takamine.com and in “Required Fields"ask for the First Name and Last Name ? Not just about a seller, or serial #
So, if they DO NOT WANT to honor their TWO YEARS WARRANTY - they they can a way NOT TO FIX a problem
+Nikolay Ryzhikov Some things we will never understand...
Hey mate I've just been looking into this myself. Had to replace the same pre on my Japanese PTU after owning the guitar for many years (about 10 years)
After going back to the dealer where I bought it from and him installing the brand new replacement pre at the shop, I noticed a delay in the signal after un-muting after tuning, a bit annoying but otherwise did what it was supposed to do so I just got on with it.
After less than a couple of years use, one of the LED's would sort of stay faintly lit even after new battery replacement just to check. And now the low end has disappeared and the sound is all scratchy, raspy and tinny. Bottom end does not work properly if at all.
I have had the replacement pre-amp for just over 3 years and I am very disappointed too because, as you mentioned I had to resort to talking to a local dealer only for them to inform me my warranty has run out and they can't go any further with any support from the company.
10 years for the original pre-amp V's less than 3 years for a supposedly same quality replacement.
Very dissapointed, even the two who ordered the replacement commented that indeed having to replace the pre-amp after 10 years was impressive but 3 years for the new replacement is just rude and dissapointing at the least.
I know this is an older thread but I hope you read this and maybe I can get an update on how you overcame your issue?
Regards Richie.
best review ever, but the preamp is terible, far from the natural sound...but your review is perfect
Thanks for watching! Yes I agree that the preamp sounds different to the acoustic sound, but in a live setting it can actually sound quite natural - much better than having a mic that feeds back all the time ;)
+GLB Productions be honest with me, i have a eg 363 with a Tk 40, do you think worth if i change my tk 40 and put ct4b?
The CT4BII preamp won't work with the G-series guitars I'm afraid, only the Pro-series models.
+GLB Productions why?
Different pickup technology.