New arrival

1999 Yamaha SG-T2 Masayoshi Takanaka Signature Model, transparent blue, with case

$5,999.00 USD
By Yamaha

 Maker: Yamaha

Model: SG-T2 Takanaka

Condition: excellent


Description: 

A rare made in Japan Masayoshi Takanaka signature model Yamaha SG in transparent blue. Features Yamaha's "Rockin' Magic III " tremolo system, active circuitry, H-S-H pickup configuration, and unique “palm tree” and “TAKANAKA” letter inlays. This one is in incredibly clean condition with the only notable blemishes being a couple very minor dings on the top edge of the headstock. Plays effortlessly and incredibly versatile. A rare and incredibly clean Takanaka SG that would make a great addition to a collection or studio. Has been fully inspected and set up by our tech and ready for a new home. Includes original hard case with some original documents and tools. See below for a list of specs and info. 

Weight: 10lbs 4oz

Neck Profile: C

Neck Thickness: 1st fret .788", 12th fret .933"

Fretboard Radius: 12"

Nut Width: 1 11/16"

Pickup Values: Neck 14.6k, Middle 6.2k, Bridge 14.9k

The Yamaha SG-T2 is an iconic, ultra-rare signature electric guitar custom-built in Japan for Masayoshi Takanaka, one of Japan’s most influential jazz-fusion guitarists. Released in 1998–1999, it serves as the highly upgraded successor to his original late-1980s SG-T model.

Unlike standard production models, the SG-T2 was built by Yamaha’s premier Japanese craftsmen to withstand high-speed fusion playing. The guitar is instantly recognizable by its striking aesthetic, often referred to by collectors as the "Furikake" or "Palm Tree" design.

While classic Yamaha SGs are known for passive humbuckers, the SG-T2 was built for Takanaka's incredibly bright, crisp, and compressed signature studio tone.

To support Takanaka's aggressive whammy bar techniques, the guitar features the Yamaha Rockin' Magic Pro III double-locking tremolo system. It is widely considered one of the most stable, low-profile Floyd Rose-style bridges ever designed, maintaining perfect tuning stability even during extreme pitch bends.

Because these were produced in incredibly limited numbers exclusively in Japan, the SG-T2 is considered a holy grail instrument for fusion fans. Today, they are highly sought after by global collectors and routinely command premium prices on the used market.

  • H-S-H Layout: It features two high-output Yamaha SGH-3CC humbuckers and a center LIVE-GS6 single-coil pickup.
  • Active EQ System: Instead of traditional passive tone knobs, the guitar features an active onboard preamp with dedicated active Bass and Treble boost/cut knobs, allowing you to heavily sculpt your mid-range and high-end bite directly from the guitar.
  • Through-Neck Design: The neck runs completely through the center of the body, providing massive sustain and effortless access to the highest frets.
  • Premium Woods: It utilizes a heavy, resonant mahogany body capped with a carved maple top, paired with a smooth ebony fingerboard.
  • Body Wood: Carved Maple top over a Mahogany back
  • Neck: 3-piece Maple + Mahogany
  • Fingerboard: Ebony, 22 frets
  • Scale Length: 25.5" scale; longer than the standard 24.75" of classic Yamaha SGs
  • Pickups: H-S-H layout featuring original Yamaha SGH-3CC Humbuckers and a LIVE-GS6 Single Coil (with U.S.-made Alnico magnets)
  • Electronics: 5-way pickup selector, Volume & Tone controls, and an onboard active tone circuit
  • Bridge/Tremolo: Yamaha Rockin' Magic III tremolo system
  • Hardware Color: Chrome 
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