Taylor Guitars workshop/demo

BT Bob

Went to a demo & workshop last might run by Taylor. Around 45 minutes of demo where they went through lots f different models showing the difference in sizes and tone woods. Amazing to hear the differences.

Then we had about an hour to play around with the different models, which was great fun.

I haven't played a Taylor for years and the new ones, especially the 2018 V-Brace models are just stunning.

Lots of money, of course, but lovely instruments, and a 714 firmly on my "want-list"...

Just wonder if there were any Taylor owners here? You must be very contented people..

hyperfish

I have the GS Mini-e which is more or less at the entry level. I wanted a small body and this has a surprisingly big and rich sound for it's size. I've had it almost 3 years and it is stable as a rock in every way. Just needed the nut slots adjusting when I got it which I believe is to be expected on most acoustics. If the scale length was just one more inch it would be perfect, but as it is, it does feel a little confined when coming from an electric.

The spruce top has darkened a little in time which I think is better. The back and sides are mahogany. I still get the Taylor magazine every quarter, maybe it's a lifetime free sub.

BT Bob

Gorgeous grain on the back ...   They had an all-mahogany guitar there - the sound was a little "compressed" to my ear, compared to the spruce/rosewood guitars are just a little brighter at the high-end.

I have a mate that has a GS Mini and loves it. I think that was one of the few items they didn't have on show Thursday.

What string do you use? The demo ones were all Elixir 12s; I'm not a fan of coated strings and I generally use 10s at home, but they did sound great. I know on bigger-bodies the 12s get a great tone (and volume), but the Taylor guy suggested using 11s on a smaller-body/shorter scale-length would feel more like 10s as they'll be a little looser.

hyperfish

IIRC It came with Elixir coated 13's partly due to the shorter scale but I found them too heavy and I didn't see them lasting as long as claimed, so I use Martin 11's. They still sound great and are kinder to my fingers.

BT Bob

I use Martin PBs on my Gibson SWD - they're lovely and last ages.
On my old Yamaha FG340 I prefer d'Addario EJ15 PBs - again, they last ages.

technoholic

I have a 814ce, before they changed to the expression system. Love it so much. Bought it from a studio closing down in London and was played by Razorlight and Amy Winehouse.

I chop and change my guitars over the years but this is a keeper for life I reckon. The only thing I'd trade it for would be another Taylor if I found one I liked better