[detwid]

anyone knows anything about this model. it is not currently in the production line anymore, isn't it?

It is so much look like the kohno model special.

However the hirade h 15 is so much cheaper.

I finds a shop here that still carry the h15.

Please help me make the decision.

[MegaBrawn]

I think that the Japanese make great instruments for up to around $2k. If I was going to spend anything more, I'd probably buy Spanish or American guitars.

I notice that you are still looking for a guitar. Though I'm sure all of us here are more than happy to give our opinions, none of us here can speak for the specific guitar you tried. Some who have played hirades may have a general idea of what it sounds like, but who knows what the hirade you've played sounds like in comparison.

If you love the sound compared to other guitars you have tried in that price range, it may be the right guitar for you.

I honestly do not know if kohno was involved in its designing. I'm sure C. Vega should know something.

[Faya]

i played a Hirade awhile back that was made very, very Well!
In my opinion the Japanese make some very Nice stuff.

The Hiarde i played was a EP-90 E/A.

[BoogieB]

detwid,
i have a h10, that they don't build anymore. in a small room it sounds o.k. but, in a large room it sounds great. from what i understand kohno designed the hirade series(years ago). for the japanese market they built an h40 and50. built in sakashita. don't know about now.
as far as sound, mine has a "silvery" voice. also, i've had it for 14 yrs and never had a single problem.

[Miguel Angel]

detwid
Go to www.takamine.com, then go to guitars, archive series, acoustic, there you will find the specifications of the Hirade H15. To me the Takamine handcrafted Hirade Series are one of the best classical guitars around for its price. I currently own an H5 & H8, and are second to none.