Description
The Tanglewood TB4-CE Blackbird is a striking Superfolk acoustic-electric guitar engineered for modern players who require reliable performance on stage and in the studio. Positioning itself as a dedicated workhorse within the Blackbird series, this model combines a compact body shape with robust construction to handle the physical demands of regular gigging. The Superfolk sizing bridges the gap between the booming dreadnought and the smaller parlor, providing a balanced, midrange-focused acoustic response that sits exceptionally well in a dense live mix.
Finished in a distinct Smokestack Satin black, the instrument rejects highly reflective gloss coats in favor of a smooth, friction-reducing texture that prevents the neck from feeling sticky under hot stage lighting. Its primary application lies in live amplification and fast-paced acoustic sets, where the onboard preamp allows for immediate signal routing directly to front-of-house mixing consoles.
Who Is This For?
This instrument is specifically designed for gigging singer-songwriters, wedding band guitarists, and dedicated studio musicians who require a reliable acoustic-electric hybrid. The slender neck profile, combined with the highly manageable Superfolk body shape, makes it exceptionally suitable for electric guitarists transitioning to acoustic sets, ensuring optimal ergonomic comfort during prolonged performances.
Key Features:
Superfolk Body Shape and Ergonomics
The Superfolk body design fundamentally alters how the guitar rests against the player, offering a narrower waist and reduced depth compared to traditional dreadnoughts. This structural choice reduces shoulder fatigue during long standing sets while maintaining enough internal air volume to produce a clear, articulate midrange. Furthermore, the distinct treble-side cutaway provides unimpeded access to the upper frets, allowing players to execute complex chord voicings and lead lines that would be otherwise inaccessible on a standard full-body acoustic.
Smokestack Satin Finish and Resonance
Unlike thick polyurethane gloss finishes that can choke the natural vibration of the wood, the Smokestack Satin finish applied to the TB4-CE is exceptionally thin. This minimal coating allows the soundboard to flex and move with greater acoustic efficiency, resulting in a slightly more open and responsive sound straight out of the box. From a practical standpoint, the satin texture also eliminates the glaring reflections caused by stage spotlights and provides a tactile, smooth fretting surface.
Integrated Preamp and Electronics System
Fitted with a dedicated side-mounted preamp, this guitar allows for direct connection to acoustic amplifiers, PA systems, and recording interfaces without the need for external microphones. The control panel is positioned conveniently on the upper bout, giving the player immediate access to essential equalization shaping and volume adjustments during a live performance. This built-in electronic integration ensures consistent, reliable acoustic tone in challenging acoustic environments.
Specifications Table
| Specification | Detail |
| Brand | Tanglewood |
| Model | TB4-CE Blackbird |
| Body Shape | Superfolk Cutaway |
| Type | Acoustic-Electric |
| Finish | Smokestack Satin Black |
| String Type | 6-String Steel |
Flat shipping fee to capital cities and metro areas. Does not include regional areas
Regional areas please email for quote: sales2@stagefrontmusic.com.au