4 reasons some people don’t like Taylor guitars

[@philhood4604]

Radical idea. If you do not like the sound of Taylor guitars, do not buy one?

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Spot on!!

[@georgevadnais3516]

That's it ☝️

[@jane55ism]

Haters? Isn’t that a bit over the top? There are so many other problems in the world to get that upset about…

[@joecontreras5068]

I’ve never liked Taylor and it’s real simple to just not buy one.

[@stefanhamilton8713]

It worked for me.

[@architypeone8646]

Bob Taylor has done more to make the guitar industry thrive than anyone else in the business. He has driven the industry with production techniques that increase quality and consistency so much so that every major manufacturer now use these techniques and technology. He also has done great things for sustainability with his use of non-traditional tone woods and literally buying the ebony company in Cameroon that supplies most of the ebony to the industry and developing good forestry and harvesting practices to make sure that ebony will be available for many years to come. I have a 2009 Taylor 414ce limited in Tasmanian Blackwood that sounds fantastic. I get the comment, "That doesn't sound like a Taylor" all the time. I think there is a preconceived notion about what a Taylor is supposed to sound like and in reality they all have a unique voice depending on body size, tone wood and especially who is playing it. So much of tone is in the hands of the player.

[@philipdeppen3189]

How many times u gonna paste and post this idiot. You can’t take a shitty sounding acoustic and make it sound good no matter how you play. Your just repeating what other idiots say

[@crispycat4852]

Yep, I just posted, I have a Custom shop Sinker redwood/ Amazonian Rosewood Taylor from NAMM 2017 with erformance bracing, can't say I'm a fan of the V Totally unique sound, as you should expect from a custom especially with such a are wood combu but thats thw whole point surely? The most "Un Taylor" sounding Taylor you could get therfore Warm, rich, big with a big bass thump and sparkly trebles Complex overtones Complete OPPOSITE of the much maligned "Bright " Taylor sound !

[@hankd18]

You had me going for a while there. Good one.

[@ahill209]

Also, from a sustainability standpoint, they now use all of the ebony and not just the dark black lumber. No difference in playability, durability, or tone. Just an aesthetic thing. Other manufacturers are now starting this practice. if you really want an all black fretboard, just stain it black. Nobody complains about Gibson's rosewood fretboards not being dark black.

[@5400bowen]

I knew several people who worked at Taylor, they all agreed on one thing, Taylor is a terrible place to work. Unpaid extra hours, no slack for sick days, low pay, high demands. The stories were awfully consistent. I don't like their guitars in general,. poor tone and they don't tune up accurately. It doesn't help that Jewel helped so much to popularize Taylors, and the three chord three note pretty girl fad. I saw her at the place in Ocean Beach where she was "discovered" just after she signed her record deal, I used to play there too. we both lived in our vehicles in OB, but though I had loads of respect from fans and musicians alike, and I knew hundreds of people down there for literally decades, I wasn't part of the "pretty people', so she never acknowledged me, and I never knew her. I cannot stand the amateur ability level of the music she and her copycats did. And it didn't give me a good impression of their guitars either, with the stories of Taylors employees to boot.

[@JimBischoff1184]

When I was finally in a position to buy a new acoustic guitar , I was set on a Taylor 414-CE ; since I had been trying them out for several months previously . When I finally went to try them out ; something had changed with the neck dimensions on this model ! The ones I tried had a thick ; overly narrow neck compared to the ones I had tried just a few months earlier ! I tried several different shops with them on hand ; but they all had the same issue ! I couldn’t get a good answer from anyone on what may have happened ; but I ended up going with Martin ; and I can’t say that I regret it . 🤷‍♂️

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Definitely have to go with whatever feels good for you. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@carltonholderjr]

I played the tailor guitars and I liked the Martin d15m better so now I play my tunes with a Martin d15m usa made .

[@steveb9325]

It's just like anything else it's subjective. I like Martins. You like Taylor's let's jam! It's also, whatever you can afford! My first guitar was a $20 dollar nylon string from Mexico. I was incredibly thankful just to have a guitar!

[@sonusaurelius6576]

It is all very subjective, you’re right. Thanks for watching!!

[@VajrahahaShunyata]

Its better if they sound a little different when you play together anyway 👍🤏😃🤣

[@jed1166]

I play out several times a week, and know a lot of the local players. There are more Taylors out there than all other premium brands. And, they all sound quite good! You can’t sell 750 guitars a day, unless you are making an excellent product.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Spot on mate. Thanks for watching!!

[@DjNikGnashers]

That is a silly quote. McDonalds sell 100 times more meals a day than a nice restaurant, but nobody would say they are better quality.

[@jed1166]

@@DjNikGnashers do they sell for the same price?

[@DjNikGnashers]

@@jed1166 Taylors can cost 3 or 4 thousand pounds, which is where Lowden range starts, and for the same money, you are getting a hand made, built to your own spec (I specified the nut width, neck shape, etc). So along with the unique bracing system Lowden uses, and the top quality tonewoods, I'd say a Lowden is a much better guitar for the same money.

[@jed1166]

@@DjNikGnashers All solid wood, USA made Taylors start at $1,749.

[@carljohnson7517]

When I was looking for a high quality guitar I tried all the acoustic guitar they had and I leaned to Taylor because I thought it had the best all around sound quality. It had high and lows too. I did not plug them in. I have found the strings have a greater impact on sound quality.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Yeah often changing the strings will make a big different in tone. Thanks for watching!

[@powbobs]

Hilarious

[@cressmanfoster]

I’m one of those who find them too bright and always thought they felt very machine made. The CNC technique definitely plays a role in this because a lot of Martin’s leave a similar taste in my mouth now. A Gibson feels more handmade to me now and their ongoing quality control problems seem to reinforce the fact a good portion of them are still hand made, for better or for worse. I’m not a hater or any of these brands. I currently have a D-28 and a GS-Mini and have owned an SJ-200 in the past. They all have their pros and cons.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Good points about handmade and variability of quality! Thanks for watching

[@matthewwillis4892]

This is my thoughts exactly.

[@nicknorthcottfingerstylegu3493]

Their Mexican models have way more punch and mid range without all the $$ and bling. I’m with you on the US made models.

[@garrystubbs4891]

@@matthewwillis4892*These are

[@crispycat4852]

Have you ever tried a Furch?

[@StratsRUs]

They feel beautiful and all I found was it fitted fine in a full band when recording.But not on its own. I got a D28 later and it is magical and put me in a trance straight away.Suited a vocal immediately !! My fave players tend to use 12 String Taylors though.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

The d28 is a beautiful guitar. Thanks for watching!

[@donaldbutcher1260]

I have a 214 ce dlx and other than having the action lowered I have no issues at all, plays great and sounds great 😊

[@sonusaurelius6576]

A comfortable is a great feeling! Thanks for watching.

[@kellyreed8714]

I have the 214ce plus. I love the sound and playability of it.

[@joe19912]

Same. I actually think Taylor excels at the $1k-2k mark. Martins at the beginner level use too much laminate, although they both have excellent QC. My advice to a beginner is start off with a Yamaha, move to a Taylor, save up for a nice Martin or by then you might lean towards a more niche brand.

[@Splandrocity]

I have the same DLX too. It's very comfortable and I actually enjoy the bright sounds. I play with Elixir 80/20 light strings.

[@andrewstirling6457]

I just purchased a new Taylor 117e Grand Pacific with the torrified spruce top I think it is a great sounding guitar and it looks nice too it is certainly not tinny I chose it over a Martin because I like the narrower neck and it just seemed like a better choice I also heard that Taylor guitars were a popular choice by beginners and professional musicians I am an intermediate player I normally play Fender acoustics I have a one year old Fender villager California series 12 string acoustic and I have been playing a Fender CD 60 -SCE electro acoustic dreadnought for the past 3 years I just wanted to try something different and I love my new Taylor 117e. I agree with one of the other comments If you don't like Taylor's don't buy it simple. Andy, Glasgow 🥰🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks!!

[@BryanClark-gk6ie]

Never have liked Taylor guitars until I played a friend's 12 string a couple weeks ago. Best feeling neck on a 12 string I've ever played' never thought I'd say that.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Their necks are great. Thanks for watching!

[@markharwood7573]

I feel the same. I have a limited edition K62ce, it's a dream to play, but I'm not interested in owning a Taylor 6-string. Nice kit, but not for me.

[@4Marktk]

Funny how I've heard about 50 Taylor owners say "My Taylor is as good as a Martin". I've NEVER heard one Martin owner say desperately : " My Martin is as good as a Taylor"

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Ha!! So true

[@scottyluvsguitar]

I own both, and for how they are used, they are as good as one another. The Taylor is a beast for fingerstyle and sitting easily in a mix. The Martin is sensational for solo gigs or playing bluesy fingerstyle.

[@gerryhardman9060]

Excellent review with every topic and every scenario covered. I don’t own Taylor, but I noticed they exclusively use elixir strings. I never thought anything of it until I bought a couple of pairs for my acoustics and I couldn’t believe the difference it brought to my old guitars. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and clearing up a lot of wrong ideas about these guitars. I played them in shops and as far as I’m concerned they’re beautiful guitars and actually I like a brighter tone.👏🙏😊

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Glad you liked the video. Strings make a huuuuuge difference to acoustic guitar tone. I also don’t mind a brighter tone. Thanks to watching!!

[@2Kings315]

Taylor just switched to D'Addario strings.

[@theronb1177]

Taylor and Gibson make fine guitars that are preferred by lots of people I respect and I've played some (used to own a nice J-45) but Martin has the sound I prefer. For the kind of music I play, bluegrass and folk, they are the standard.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Absolutely!! Thanks for watching mate 😊

[@jaburchfield7194]

I got a 317e. Got a beautiful deep end with pristine highs. Slightly scooped middle (perfect for vocals). The ES2 sound fine. IDC what the Martin/Gibson purists think. Thanks for the video.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks for watching mate!!

[@omegacanon]

Taylor guitars are really good despite what people say. They used to fill a only niche market and now they are top competitors. What I will recount here is purely statistical anomaly and confirmation bias from me. I've spoken with about 8 luthiers around Missouri and found the following 2 or 3 things that stand out. 1.) Every Taylor that had been brought in save for a handful had something wrong with the bridge regardless of model. Lifting, loose pegs, incorrectly shaved bridge leading to bad intonation, etc. These problems become exacerbated when someone pays over a grand for a guitar and it comes with problems. 2.) When it works, the ES2 is a very good upgrade from the ES1 and has useful tools. They've had reports of it dying live on stage, buzzing, shorting, battery leakage (dramatically low life). The frequency of problems with it compared to other pickup models is significant.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Yeah the ES1 was a shocker. I didn’t know about the bad bridge work. Thanks for sharing!!

[@stephencook7720]

In my opinion, you should buy a guitar based on your ear, on and off the instrument in question, and the feel. I had a Martin, came across an older Guild I really liked, and parted with the Martin. Taylor makes a range of solid quality instruments, but I've found only one I really liked by ear and feel, but that's my ear and feel. Play the best gear you can, so called lifer instruments, but it has to sing to you for you to make it sing. Do your best on your Taylors and Martins, I'll do so on my Guild, and hopefully they will bring out the best in what we do.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

That’s a great way to put it- the guitar has to sing to you, so true

[@gregpiper8416]

I've got one Taylor, a 317 (not e). There's things to like about it. The best thing about it is the playability and it has a nice even tone. I can't explain why, but there's no projection and it doesn't record well. I prefer Martins.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Completely understand. Sometimes guitars just don’t feel and sound right to us. Thanks for watching 😊

[@dethcult]

They have a more treble tone to my ear. I desire a fuller midrange tone. As much as I want to like a Taylor I find myself still playing Martin, Gibson, and Guild acoustics.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Absolutely!! All great makers. Thanks for watching!

[@chullerism]

I don't think the issue with "Brightness" is actually that, but more the lack of low end and not just larger guitars, like dreadnoughts. Even the Grand Auditorium body is lacking bass when compared to the Martin Grand Performance body. As far as price is concerned, Taylor's should be $500-$600 less than a comparable Martin, due to the "cheaper" neck joint. I'm not opposed to bolt-on necks, but there should be a cost savings passed onto the customer and not only going toward increasing Taylor's profit margin.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

I wouldn’t say no to $500 off a guitar!! Great points made. Thanks for watching ☺️

[@crispycat4852]

Yes , I have a custom Taylor so not really he same issues as the series models , the woods are Sinker Redwood and Amzonian Roswood and its a GS body not a GA so absolutely thumping bass Also the bracing is Performance being from 2017 and theres many who feel the new V bracing adds to the problem?

[@VajrahahaShunyata]

@@crispycat4852 yes, I also prefer the warmth in the lower end frequencies of the x brace system of the older Taylor's. The V brace is trebley...er..

[@Jodyrides]

I tested Taylor, Martin, Takamine, gibson, guitars, side-by-side in the sound room of a music store that was well stocked with acoustics in a special sound room liked the Taylor neck and fretboard finish better than the others The gibson was a big disappointment to me. For the price, I expected them to be easily better than everything else in sound. I ruled out the gibson’s pretty quick. The sound difference between the Taylor and the Martin in my opinion, the taylor was brighter and louder than the Martin. I tried to Takamine.. I liked it but I wanted a single cutaway guitar I strolled around the store I went to the service department/you which is where the used department was., I noticed the pricing on the wall for a set up of acoustic guitars, as well as electrics. to set the action on a trailer was $80 plus strings to set the action on a Martin started at $500 plus strings I asked the guitar guru why the big price spread between Martin Guitars and Taylor Guitar‘s for a set up where you have to change the action to make it higher or lower.. he said it’s cheap on the trailer because the taylor has a bolt on neck which makes it very easy to change shims just by unbolting the neck inside the sound hole.. with a Martin, you have to steam with the neck off, so the glue will release the neck, and then glue it back on after you change the action shims, or whatever needs to be done to make the action lower or higher.. right there that made my mind up in a nanosecond I ended up buying the trailer and the Takamine..

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Yeah man! If you consider the ongoing costs of maintenance and setup, Taylor wins the race… thanks for watching mate!!

[@EzyoMusic]

I got a beautiful 424ce recently and it just has everything I love about a Taylor. Balanced tone, great playability, looks amazing and I like the pickup too.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Congrats! 424 is a beautiful guitar

[@marknagle-vi7og]

I own the Taylor 316CE which was designed to punch through powerful sound and more bottom end than the oh so popular 314 CE. I’m very happy with my guitar and it really comes down to personal preference of what you want from a guitar and Taylor can build it. Not only is each model uniquely different by design but each guitar of the same model is unique in its tone. If you can’t find a Taylor guitar that suits your needs maybe the guitar is not the problem.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Yeah they definitely offer variety! Thanks for watching

[@tamboblake4835]

I put 10 guage strings on my Taylor 114E and it has made a huge difference in the sound and more on the low end.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Yeah I’m partial to light gauge strings on Taylors too for the sound and feel!! Thanks for watching!

[@_left_eye]

A decent or satisfying amplified acoustic tone has always been a pain in stool we usually sit on. My 2 cent about Taylor is I sold my GS mini because of the es1 outrageous sound. Taylor deserves the greatest acknowledgement for bringing playability up to light, but any cheap acoustic guitar stock piezo gives me less inhibition compared to Taylor’s

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@NickMcC]

Another fine video. I couldn't agree more on most of your points. I do however have to respectfully disagree about ES2. I'm an audio engineer and I don't personally know any engineers who enjoy mixing ES2 or, better yet, who don't vocally bemoan having to work with it. Likewise, I don't know any who don't love working with the older Fishman Prefix systems Taylor used to use. My own '99 414ce uses this system and it gets compliments every time I play it. That said, I respect your take on ES2. As has been mentioned elsewhere many times, it does do a good job of capturing elements of the instrument that are totally ignored by under-saddle pickups. I just don't think those elements desirable when using a pickup.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

There are excellent pickups out there. The fishman prefix is one of those. I haven’t used one but have a martin with similar features that allow you to blend mic and piezo. I did a comparison between a $50 JJB pickup and the ES2 and to be honest they compare well. The ES2 is clearer but likes body. While the JJB has that classic (albeit subtle) quack with a warm and fuller overall tone. There is also something to be said about Taylor exclusively using the ES on their guitars, which I don’t necessarily agree with. They also offer few non-electronics models.

[@markharwood7573]

Interesting. As a performer, I like the ES2 at least as much as any pickup that I've had. In fact it's a major reason why I bought a Taylor. It's not in a complex mix though, so perhaps your reservations don't apply. Also, the fact that my Taylor is a 12-string might be relevant: the ES2 might be better suited to that.

[@NickMcC]

@@markharwood7573 You’re not the first person to tell me that they enjoy how ES2 sounds with a 12-string. That is interesting. I wish they’d offer other options, but I’m glad there are people who love ES2z

[@NickMcC]

@@sonusaurelius6576 I agree - perhaps I wouldn’t be so displeased with ES2 if they still offered other options.

[@rtmca1]

I have owned and played several high end Martins, Santa Cruz, Gibson and custom luthier hand made guitars over the decades. Never a Taylor. But when I was over at a friend’s and he played a fingerstyle composition of his on his new Taylor, I was gob smacked. The sound was gorgeous, articulate and balanced. I now own a Taylor (700 series x-braced) and it is my most played guitar. In fact my Martins and Santa Cruz guitars have been sold. The Taylor sounds and plays great. There’s a lot of disdain for Taylors out there but there’s also a lot of Taylor love, I can now attest.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Nice!! 😊 Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment

[@Turtlpwr]

I actually always preferred the sound of a Taylor over a martin. Don’t really care what anyone else thinks about it

[@sonusaurelius6576]

I’m the same! Go with what you know and love mate. Thanks for watching

[@sonicbluestrat934]

As a luthier, one of the reasons why Taylors sound brittle- and they do.-is the bracing system and the voicing of the braces. Wood have a big effect on tone, but it is the voicing of the top, the bracing system and the design elements that will determine the character of the voice. Some people prefer that sound, it's a matter of taste. But people with bad tastes need guitars too ;)

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Haha! 😂 Are you referring to the v class bracing? Or do you think they’ve always braced them to be brittle sounding?

[@ponterotto6870]

I’m an older guy with a high-end model of both a Martin and Taylor. The Martin just sounds like what a guitar should sound like based on a lifetime of listening. I like the bright Taylor too, but it sounds like an alien that just landed on Earth - to serve man, as it were. I enjoy playing both.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

😂 I enjoy playing both too.

[@twangmeister]

I've not played a Taylor, but do admire the innovations they have introduced such as the neck joint system which has simplified the neck reset issue. However, if you go on the Taylor website and filter out all the models with pickups (I don't need one) and cutaways (I personally think they look ugly), there aren't many left to choose from!

[@sonusaurelius6576]

You’re spot on! Would be nice to a non-electronics version on some models. Thanks for watching!!

[@videolenzo]

I've owned 10 different Taylors over the years. Their 800 series have been not only an excellent sounding guitar, but they are really fun to play. I didn't care for the T5 custom or the K65 I bought, but all of the others were really nice guitars. And I received a lot of compliments on the sound of my 815 and 655 when I took them out. And their neck system can save you a ton of money if it needs a reset. I had an 855 that needed a reset. Taylor in San Diego did it, as well as fixing all of the nicks and scratches on the guitar. They did a fabulous job at a very reasonable price. Every manufacturer makes good and bad guitars. You just have to find one that fits your needs.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Completely agree and I also love my 818 for the reasons you stated! Thanks for watching

[@hollowbodymusic5673]

I own a Taylor 310 CE and just bought a Martin dreadnought special and while I love my Taylor and the ES two pick up system, there is no comparison to the soft tone of the Martin guitar.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Yeah Martins are beautiful sounding guitars.

[@user-hh9cu2px9g]

20 years ago I went looking for a premium acoustic guitar. I was living in nyc at the time and 48th street music district was still in full swing. This allowed me to play virtually every premium acoustic guitar in a 1 block walking distance. I liked many of them. Even some relatively inexpensive guitars from Korea. But, one stood out: a Taylor 514. I learned it had a cedar top. Did this really matter? Dunno, but it just sounded so full and warm, but still retained clear highs. I was sold. Because I had no need to play high. Up the neck or play it amplified, I custom ordered one without a cutaway or a pickup. It saved $800 and I never regretted it. So, 20 years later, what do I think? I love it. One little complaint I do have, tho, is the 1 3/4” wide neck. The one I played on 48th st had the more trad 1 11/16”. Apparently I ordered mine right at the point where they switched to the wider neck. I’m used to it now, but would still prefer the narrower neck. Also, my 514 stays in tune almost indefinitely and has never needed a truss rod adjustment. It’s sound still makes me (and anyone else who plays it) smile. Some things to be aware of. It’s a very light guitar. I think the back and sides might be relatively thin. Maybe this is why it sounds so good? Side by side with a D28 it’s really noticeable. That said. It’s been bounced around a lot in 20 years and is still fine. My biggest complaint is probably with the rapid wear of the frets. I had the first 3 frets replaced about 5 years ago, and the new ones are still like new. Enough words. Bottom line, you simply have to go play guitars to know what you like.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Great story! Thanks for sharing and you’re right. Try lots of guitars and then make up your mind 😊

[@zunif]

Taylor guitars were great until Andy Powers ruined them with the v class bracing.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

I haven’t extensively tried a v class guitar. Do you mean in terms of engineering problems or tonal problems?

[@zunif]

@@sonusaurelius6576 tonal. the v class makes the guitar sound compressed in a way. it doesn't have the depth, volume, and bottom end that it use to.

[@phanhuyduc2395]

They really ruined it for sure

[@spade2you]

I hope they eventually go back to x bracing. I don't see a real benefit. I'm still kicking myself for not grabbing an 810e DLX and 618e when I had the chance.

[@markozinga]

The v class does two things to my ear. It provides a lot of balance across lows mids and highs and the sustain is amazing

[@deans.8659]

I decided to purchase a Taylor 814ce and I love the full and clear tone. Using an amp too. You also can find Taylors with a darker or warmer tone more mids oriented. At least I liked the look more compared to Martin or Gibson. But they sound great too. About the price: Buy once for a lifetime. So if you want an exzellent Instrument you have to pay more of course. But it's worth every cent. I love the great handling and playability and the fantastic sustain. So it' s no question of the brand but how you feel with the guitar, how you like the tone and of course the look.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Yeah completely agree!!

[@arendzen]

One study into what made Stradivarius violins sound so good concluded that it was due to the tiny imperfections built into the instruments. Speaking to The Telegraph newspaper, physicist Dr Franco Zanini said: “We noticed there were a lot of asymmetries in the instruments. In principle they have no reason to be there, but it is possible these imperfections were made to remove the unpleasant harmonics that you get in symmetrical instruments.” If there is anything in this theory, it could explain why CNC manufactured guitars don't sound so great to some ears. 20 years ago, I bought a second guitar to supplement my '65 Levin Goliath, which itself has a bright sound (flamed maple back and sides with spruce top) I found Taylors too bright and ended up with a Martin 00028ec. I spent hours comparing the standard 00028 with the ec version before buying.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

In the same interview he talks about the violin having had modifications and natural imperfections resultant from over 300 years of life. And that any affect to harmonics may be by chance. I think it confirms that instruments need to live and breathe. It also highlights the importance of Luthiery as a skill, something I think a consumer culture is slowly diminishing. Regardless, my experience is that guitars come into their true voice at around 5 years, but they have to be played, and playing, changes in climate and general wear and the consequent tiny imperfections I think definitely impact the sound for the better. Thanks for sharing this - really interesting perspective to add to the conversation!!

[@TJMonster51]

I own a 214 black. It plays amazing. I paid 1700 for it new. I also own an Alverez. It was 600. The Taylor plays far better. The Alverez just sounds better all around. The pick up sounds better. I ended up putting an aura system into the Taylor because the new pickups just don’t have any volume to them.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Alvarez make GREAT guitars! Thanks for sharing mate.

[@bobnat2]

I bought a Taylor 414 CE about 12 years ago for almost $2,000 and it was the best guitar I've ever had. I like it, it sounds great but I never felt totally comfortable with the neck. Why, I don't know. About 3 years later I bought a Martin 000-15m for $1,100 because I had started fingerpicking. When I play them one after the other I really noticed the high ends of the Taylor. The Martin definitely has a warmer sound for me. It's all I've played since then. I don't think I've spent more than 10 hours on the Taylor in all this time.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

👍🏼 Martin’s 000s are wonderful!! Might be time to sell the Taylor.

[@BaktaBak3]

Taylors are great guitars, (as with ANY instrument) sound, playability is subjective & personal. Personally, think they should 'can' the ES System . Not good. IMO. Furthermore, NO 2032 batteries in ANY guitar. They suck in a guitar. Stick with the 9 Volt Battery or double A at the end pin. THEY WORK and LAST ! 🎸🎸🎸 Listen to the people/musicians who buy this gear . 🎸🎸🎸

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks! The ES2 uses 9 volt and the compartment is at the end pin. I think the ESB used to use button batteries but they’ve since upgraded that too, so it takes AAs or something. Anyway, I’m not a fan of the ESB. But think the ES2 is an excellent piezo pickup. Not the best and I wish they wouldn’t put it on everything.

[@aaronlarsen7447]

I bought a beautiful 614. It was bass deficient, thin and sterile. My Gibson Dove really didnt sound fabulous either, but had some personality. Ive had several Martins. Buy a 28 or an 18 and you'll be in love forever. A new standard series Martin is no more expensive than a Taylor. My D28 was 2,500 in 2018. They are 2,700 now. Best sounding guitar i ever heard.

[@jimdoner3443]

Not a Martin fan , muddy thuddy rollie pollie tone

[@aaronlarsen7447]

@@jimdoner3443 I know it's subjective, more about taste. They both seem to favor certain styles. I would like to see Julian Lage do a head to head with those two brands of equal price. I will concede that novice players can more easily play and get good sound with a Taylor and those tired d drone church chords. When using peddle techniques, fingerstyle, pinching, and walking bass the Martin comes alive, like a grand piano.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks for sharing!

[@anthonyfoster1476]

A Taylor 614 has a maple back and sides- comparing apples and oranges with a D18 hog or a D28 rosewood. If I want maple I'd go with a jumbo body size to give more bass, Which I did.

[@aaronlarsen7447]

@anthonyfoster1476 The Dove was maple, and spruce same size, different shape.

[@bobaldo2339]

Lots of us hate acoustic guitar PU's, since a good mic sounds better than any PU. As for Taylors, they tend to lack bass response. Of course relatively inexpensive Martins (thousand bucks or so) tend to lack treble response. I prefer Guilds because they are balanced, and have a rounder fretboard radius ("12"). Still, nothing sounds better (if you have 3k to spend) than a good standard series Martin - although plenty of guitars are easier to play.. Pretty much all boutique guitars are essentially Martin copies.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

True on all points!! Thanks for your thoughts 😊

[@2bookoo4u]

New to Taylor and just bought the 314ce. The guitar was setup correctly to the Taylor factory specs, but the action is still just a little too high for my preference. So far that's my only complaint. Beautiful guitar otherwise. Glad I bought it.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

314s are nice. You could look at getting the neck angle adjusted when you take it in for a service - no extra cost, usually. It might help with the action. One of the benefits of having a Taylor.

[@howabouthetruth2157]

When Bob Taylor first started building acoustic guitars a very long time ago, he made some amazing sounding traditional dreadnoughts. But that all gradually changed when he began "re-inventing internal bracing". Pertaining to relying on CNC machines to cut parts, that has absolutely NOTHING to do with tone. Most boutique builders are now using CNC machines because not only do they speed up the process, but they assure exacting parts, each & every time, on a consistent basis. It's THE DESIGN of a guitar and how it's put together, along with choice of woods that affects tone, volume, sustain, resonance, and equally importantly: TOUCH SENSITIVITY. This touch sensitivity is where most Taylor acoustic guitars suffer the most: play it softly, play it with a medium attack, or really start digging in, and most Taylor's STILL SOUND THE SAME. The nuances of the tone timbres don't change very much using various picking attacks on Taylor's. I've learned this firsthand from owning a a high-end Taylor. Sorry, I can't recall the exact model now, but it was very expensive when I bought it new back in 2005. I loved the tone & overall sound at first......but it didn't take long before I started noticing the issue I mentioned above. All 3 of my Japanese Takamine's were FAR MORE touch sensitive. I'm talking about natural, unplugged tone. Taylor's are indeed far too expensive for what you're getting for the money. There are much better alternatives, that actually cost a good bit less. Pertaining to pickup systems for acoustic guitar, I find that nothing beats the Journey Tek EP001K passive system.......and ironically, it's one of the least expensive in the entire industry at only $50 US. ME: seasoned guitarist/singer/blues harp/performer who began playing guitar back in 1973.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks for this interesting insight!!

[@howabouthetruth2157]

@@sonusaurelius6576 You're very welcome! I'm NOT saying that "Taylor guitars are junk"..........but a growing number of professional players like world-renowned bluegrass/folk guitarist JP Cormier have also learned the same thing via firsthand playing & performing. Most Taylor guitars, regardless of price range, do in fact, sound virtually the same, no matter what picking attack you employ. It's not that it's "a bad tone".......but it is THE SAME TONE........no matter what you do. A really well-designed & built acoustic guitar WILL give you an entire palate of tones & tone timbres when you employ various picking attacks.......making that guitar QUITE versatile tonally!!! I do give all credit to Bob Taylor for employing bolt-on necks for acoustic guitars though. I can vividly recall how the vast majority of guitarists scorned him for using the bolt-on design. Nowadays of course, almost all builders are using it. A well-executed dovetail joint will always be stellar.........until ya have to repair or service that neck.

[@Johnnybananass-_]

Taylor’s are a “ modern voiced” guitar . They don’t try and make a j45 which is dark and mellow or a Martin that is soft and less attack. Taylors suit the stage and studio because they are great guitars for shaping via eq etc. there pickups also are designed to make the guitars sound modern . And studio like-ie lots of tonal options.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Agreed!

[@ironmikehallowween]

Yeah. I don’t get it. The brands all sound a little different at least to me. I like that character about them. I don’t want them all to sound the same. How boring would that be.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

So true!! Thanks for watching

[@edman1015]

My Taylor guitar has the older Taylor system installed before they switched over to the Expression System. The older systems use a mic and a bridge system and it sounds great. I like my Taylor but I miss my Takamine guitar. Another Takamine is in my future.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Yeah man, go with your heart!!

[@JohnDoe-xr5is]

I played a Taylor American Dream model a few weeks ago. It played great, it sounded great. (It had a good setup and new strings) The two reasons why I didn't buy it was the top/soundboard looked rather cheap for a $2000 guitar. And second, it sounded very close to another guitar I have...so it would be overlapping and duplicating an existing guitar of mine.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Yeah, did it have a satin or natural finishes? They definitely look cheap, and doesn’t necessarily mean the wood is cheap. Sometimes a nice gloss finish can add a bit of dazzle and shine.

[@JohnDoe-xr5is]

@@sonusaurelius6576 It was satin (which I wanted) but even a gloss wouldn't have made it look better. Bad tobacco burst.

[@terryrestoule2684]

My issue with Taylor guitars is with the build quality. A brace came loose in my brother's Taylor within the first 6 months of buying it. The battery compartment fell out of my friend's Taylor after about a year. Neither of these guitars were abused or even overly played. The horror stories that I've heard about the electronics I won't even comment on. Those sorts of things shouldn't happen with premium guitars. I saw these problems 10 to 15 years ago and, to be fair to Taylor, they may have improved since. Because of the build quality issues, I do think that Taylors are over-priced.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks for sharing. I’ve not personally experienced these issues. But understand your point! Thanks for sharing.

[@garypannone7755]

Great review. I recently Bought a Taylor Big Baby. I know it's not the top of the line Taylor. It does seem a bit brighter than my vintage Yamaha. I love the Taylor it's very comfortable plays great. My biggest complaint, and please don't laugh. It's to loud. When practicing I find myself using a electric because I can turn it down. I can hardly hear my metronome over the Taylor. I guess that is not a real problem. But if you have a remedy I am willing to listen.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

BBTs are great!! You could try reducing the string gauge? It’ll result in a little less projection.

[@emanruoy]

I bought a Big Baby new in '08 without any electronics and Taylor helped me find a hard case for it. It has been a great player for the money and sounds beautiful. Having a new instrument professionally setup can make a huge difference too.

[@Firedog53]

I appreciate your thorough and well thought out presentation!

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks mate!! 😊

[@ricknielsen4160]

Good video. I am one who doesn't think Taylors measure up to competitors, and the sound is the clincher for me. I prefer Martin dreadnoughts and boutique guitars. There is plenty of room for Taylor in the population of nice guitars for the several reasons you give. My preference is just elsewhere.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Yeah completely understand!! Thanks for taking the time to comment mate!

[@chrisb9740]

As a professional musician since the 80s, I always think of guitar quality in two ways: How they sound acoustically, and how they sound plugged in. Ive always thought that Taylor guitars were very average acoustically, but superior electronically. Martin is the opposite. Did the people who thought Taylor's were too bright mean acoustically, or when plugged in? This is a key part of the conversation. For example, Takamines are exclusively known for their great electric sound, and nobody ever claims they are good acoustically - and quite rightly so. Taylors are very similar in this regard and have made great headway in the market positioning themselves in this way.. Martins have a different issue, they are great sounding acoustically, but they don't put good enough electronics in them. This is the reason that many folks pick their own electronics for Martins. The opinions of a retired musician only of course. Interesting conversation and great video.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Interesting perspective from a very experienced musician, thanks for taking time to comment ☺️

[@neilcorbett5057]

A really well balanced and intelligent piece. Well done. I don't own a Taylor but I always thought they were OK. I think the brightness is a personal taste thing. Far better than a muddy sound at any rate. I think the general problem with guitars made in quantity is that maintaining consistency is tough just because of the variable quality of individual pieces of wood. The best luthiers who hand build go to great lengths in choosing a piece of wood and often store them for many years before using them. Then they work each soundboard differently according to its characteristics. Large scale manufacturers can't really do that. I recall many years ago going into a guitar store where there were two Martin OOs hanging side by side. I played each one, and one sounded great and the other was pretty poor. They looked identical. About very expensive guitars, I'm lucky enough to own one and for some years I was afraid of it. I felt I had to play brilliantly if I was to do it justice. I'm an OK player but I'm no Tommy Emmanuel or Martin Simpson. Now nearly 30 years later I treat it as just my old guitar, play it sweetly and let it speak for itself and it's absolutely great. I don't think of its value and I don't even mind if it has a couple of small dings. It's a lovely musical instrument and that's the important thing.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Mate!! That’s the right attitude. Nothing worse than a premium guitar that sits unplayed. Enjoy!! And thanks for watching 😊

[@davidhiser2266]

I own a Martin D28. Taylors higher tone helps them cut thru a live performance. Its whatever guitar works best for the song that you are doing. Friends of mine have Taylors so I can use either one that the song demands

[@sonusaurelius6576]

So true! Taylors are great for cut through. Thanks for watching!!

[@Mar-a-Lago_Ketchup_Cleanup]

IMO Taylor have the best single source pickup on the market. No it does not compare to the Anthem or Duo but for what it is, it is great, if properly adjusted. The mid range level is fixed but the highs and lows are adjustable which confuses some people who do not account for the fixed mid range. It is far superior to any under saddle piezo or saddle plate transducer unless you add a microphone to them.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Completely agree!!

[@SpaceFox93]

Taylor guitars, at one point, made the best 12 string on the market. The action was low, the courses were narrow and easy to fret and the bolted neck meant you didn't have to worry about tuning the guitar up to standard pitch. It's a shame they axed a majority of their 12 strings, because that was one thing that put them on the map.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Yeah such a good point. I wonder what happened there! Thanks for watching mate!

[@Jeff-D]

I love my Taylors in different ways. My first Taylor is a 2012 710ce with the ES1.3. Best (IMO) sounding preamp/pickup ever! Reliability is questionable but it sounds incredible. My second is a 2021 that has the ES2.0. I love the guitar, hate the pickup. I asked for help from Taylor to help the thing not sound so, well, bad. They told me to buy an EQ. I told them I had one already and they said buy another one. I told them it would be perfect if it had the 1.3 instead of the 2.0 and they told me that I was wrong after some heated emails (from them). I then cut my losses with the terrible Taylor customer service, had the 2.0 disconnected eventually and had a Baggs installed. It’s not great but usable as a live guitar. Shame. I won’t go back to new Taylor guitars again.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks for this. It’s rare to hear people say positive things about the ES1. I’ve only briefly used ES1 so have limited experience. Based on what I’ve read and seen in their marketing it was interesting with its combination magnetic pickup and transducers. Keep searching mate! The right pickup is out there somewhere!! Thanks for watching.

[@Mike-hr6jz]

That sound of Taylor guitars in my opinion, is very balanced, and overall a little bit louder than Martin but if you don’t like that, then you should go with the Martin both are high quality but for my money Taylor is more bang for the buck and the playability is much closer to electric video action and just comfort then Martin the only Gibson I like is the jumbo series but you have to shell out $4000

[@sonusaurelius6576]

So true!!

[@GraemeSPa]

I tried a few Taylors on my journey to find the "ultimate guitar to retire with". I felt they were all a bit light in tone and construction for me. Gibsons were too boxy. The one I finally pick was a James Goodall TROM - I was lucky enough to be in Rudy's Music and it had just arrived that day - hadn't even been unboxed. I had tried every acoustic in the room and nothing really lit my candle until I played the Goodall. The guitar just felt good to play and I could feel the vibration from the back. It was more expensive than I had planned, but I bought it and have never looked back.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Goodalls are great! Thanks for watching

[@callawaycass5148]

I appreciate the quality and playability across their entire line. Every Taylor plays fantastic. Their bolt-on neck is fantastic and produces a solid, well-coupled neck joint. Set-necks require much more care to get right, and you're not going to get a consistent product in the low-cost range. Regarding the bright tone, yes, it is a preference. However it is undeniable to anyone with a decent ear that across their line and regardless of wood, they all have a characteristic brightness to the sound. Older Taylors had a little more variation across models, but since the V-class bracing they are even more similar sounding. Yes, the wood used does make a difference; however, it is possible to design bracing and voice guitars in such a way that largely neutralizes the wood used, so long as it's solid wood. And that is what Taylor does. The good news is that if you want a guitar that plays great and sounds like a Taylor, you can just buy a 200 series. The same can't be said for most other manufacturers where you have to get into their mid-price range to get what you really want. All that said, Taylor guitars are not for me. If they're for you, cool. Never played a Taylor that didn't play great and sound like a Taylor. But that "Taylor sound" is real and it isn't for me.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Yeah completely agree with you. I think Taylors overall are good for a specific sound and I failed to mention it in the video. I personally like them in band context because they cut through well but when it comes to recording bare acoustic I use my Taylor 818 which is a larger body guitar that is more balanced with a moderate low end. The shape makes a difference. In saying that I also use Yamaha and Martin. So it’s good to have a mix! I’ve heard mixed reviews on the v-class bracing. Seems people more broadly aren’t happy with it.

[@2Kings315]

I have nine acoustic guitars, five of which are Taylors - a 714ce, 305 (baby), 555e (custom), 110e and a GA3-12. Each one serves a different purpose. I've been playing for almost 60 years, have played everything imaginable, and have settled on Taylors. I love the way they play and sound - especially the 12 string models. That being said, in spite of the the CNC machining and automation, no two are identical. I was checking out a couple 150ce 12 string models for a student and found them very different. One sounded full and rich and was butter to play, and the other, not so much. I have two sons, Scott and Jason. Both made by the same people in the same factory and they're are as different as night and day. Just sayin.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@BaktaBak3]

Fender had a wonderful pickup system in the older (first model Parlor & 000, guitars) . The pickup has volume control, tone control, and built in tuner. Takes 9 volt battery with access near the end pin. I have a Martin 00-LE Whiskey Sunset . The battery access is at the end pin. Makes sense doesn't it ? If it goes dead or low on a gig, it's a quick fix to drop in a new, extra battery kept the gig bag. Just sayin.🎸🎸🎸

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks!!

[@sil.lum.quan.]

I bought a Koa Taylor Custom 224ce-K DLX from GC in February and the tone is perfect for the music that I play. The neck, fingerboard and frets ends feel very soft and smooth, I'm happy with the guitar. But the ES2 system sounds bad to me and I typically don't use it.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

You haven’t been able to get a good sound from the ES2 and you’ve really tried.

[@sil.lum.quan.]

@@sonusaurelius6576 At the time I thought that I tried enough. Mainly because I like the Fishman Presys in my Breedlove much better. But after watching your previous video I was able to set it up correctly to my liking. Thanks!

[@sonusaurelius6576]

So glad it was helpful

[@nicknorthcottfingerstylegu3493]

“No acoustic pickup is a replacement for a microphone”. Unless it’s a mic pick up. Piezo pick ups are awful.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

😂 great point! Should have mentioned that technicality.

[@davestagner]

Mic pickups aren’t as good as external mics, either. They can be good, but they’re still inside the body or the soundhole, so they get a limited view of what’s going on with the guitar. (I have used a few, and have a Schertler A6 w/mic in one of my gigging guitars.)

[@jstar1000]

I was once told by a guitar store owner that Martin has been buying wood from the foreign countries for so long and buy so much that they get first pick of all the wood coming in from those countries and everyone else picks what's left. Not sure if that is true or not but kind of sounds ligit.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Interesting!

[@powbobs]

Yes, Martin has a huge stockpile of old wood.

[@uvp5000]

Oh, goodness. This round of comments again? Sure, I can add a comment to the ether. This video was released in May 2024, and I am commenting on June 09, 2024. Depending on where you live and what manufacturer's instruments are available, most musicians can find a guitar that suits their tastes. Stating reasons why you may not prefer an instrument is fine when asked or contributing to the conversation, but focusing on your playing is more productive than bringing other people or instruments down. If you are complaining to complain, please, most of us are not interested in hearing your gripes. There are good, viable choices out there. Choose the instrument that works for you and make music, not unnecessary criticisms. I've played a ten-year-old Taylor 618 and found it nice sounding. I've played 1970s and 1980s Martin guitars which left me unmoved. Bolt-on necks make it easier to reset the neck. Excluding hide glue, most adhesives absorb energy which does not contribute to resonance. I find that newer guitars sound much more to my taste than an antique. This is largely because luthiers, both one-person shops and major manufacturers are simply making much nicer instruments than what was produced from 1960 through 2000. There are many Taylor models that leave me unmoved. I won't work toward purchasing them. There are many Martin models which leave me unmoved. I won't purchase any of those either. The whole point of an instrument is to make music and not be a static ornament. So, in brief, go play your guitar and have fun.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thank you for a well considered response and for adding your thoughts to the ether - again ☺️

[@venturaVlogger]

Theres not much bottom end tone in taylor acoustics , but their string actions are superbly low without buzzing and they are ludicrously expensive. For me , i vote for martin acoustics or yamaha solid woods and those yamaha red labels

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Great points thank you for watching!’

[@HarryNicNicholas]

on every video that talks about these topics i say the same thing, it's all very subjective. i have six guitars at the moment, a 69 epiphone texan i got a couple of years ago, a 66 gibson J45 i bought in 1975, a maton ebg808TE, a larrivee OMO3 zebrano, a 2000's gibson j35 and a 2004 martin OOOX1. the OOOX1 blows them all away, and they are all really good guitars. the martin i think is a prototype, it's 2004, it is a made in the USA label so as they were meant to be budget martins made in mexico, and as it sounds so good, i think it was a prototype that went astray. it's so good in fact i bought another, this was a 2014 mexico made OOOX1 AE - the same but with a pickup. totally different, both are spruce top, HPL back and sides (i still have no idea how HPL is made) so they ought to sound similar at least, but no, the bass is different, the treble is different. admittedly there is ten years between them, but the back and sides being man made material would make them at least similar. i think you could go to any factory and watch two guitars of the same spec being made by the same guy on the same day from the same woodstock and they would sound different when played. all you can do is play as many guitars as you can get your hands on until one grabs you, i've had at least fifty guitars since 2013 and i've got six "keepers" that way.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

You’re right it is all very subjective. Haven’t had much experience with the Martin HPL guitars. Just assumed it was marketing. Might give them a serious chance! Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave a detailed comment !

[@lorijones9579]

I have two Taylor guitars. They are beautiful, the tone is gorgeous, and I can't imagine why anyone would bitch about them. One of my guitars is acoustic/electric and has never been plugged in so I can't speak to that, but if I were going to buy a third guitar, it would be another Taylor.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks for watching mate!

[@martinkerrmusic]

I love my Taylor 414ce from 2012. In fact I love it so much I bought two of them so my backup guitar on stage would be as good as my first. So easy to play, so comfortable, such a balanced sound. I get compliments on it all the time. It's too bright for most recording unless you have a really dead strings, and then the low end suffers, but it's amazing for live. Personally I hate the ES2 as it picks up way too much finger noise. But the ES1 works great for me.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Martin Kerr!! Love your music mate. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment. 😊 Yeah the ES2 isn’t for everyone.!

[@timhamlett5042]

I’ve never been impressed with any piezo or transducer pickup systems. Your statement about nothing can replace a microphone rang true with me which is why I own two Alvarez guitars that have a preamp system that allows the addition of a condenser mic that resides inside the guitar and it sounds better than any piezo or transducer pick I’ve heard. Get yourself a system that allows a condenser mic. You won’t regret it.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks I’ll check it out!!

[@L.Scott_Music]

No one brand is everything for everybody. Too bright? I find many guitar makers instruments are too dark. Brightness can be adjusted with string choice too. All maple guitars ARE bright. I haven't heard a pickup system that makes me very happy. I like things like Fishman Aura or Zoom A3 acoustic modeling if I'm plugging in live. Otherwise, in the studio I mic it and there is a huge tonal variation in mic'ing technique. I like Taylor guitar for their consistency and stability. Fortunately, I've only delt with ES2 and never had a negative issue. Taylor guitar are largely high end and a bit expensive, I agree. However, people who don't like the brightness and expense, should check out the Academy series. They have a very craftman look to them but actually sound really good and I did the arm bevel. There is no binding but it is a certain look that I like. Looks like it belongs in a ranch house or a cabin perhaps. I want one. An Academy Series will be my next Taylor.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

So true!!

[@chriswheeler9358]

For those who may not know, or have noticed, Taylor guitars have been changing, in the last few years, as the reins of the company have been given to Andy Powers, who is a very talented luthier, and player. He has brought innovation to the company, in the form of new bracing on the inside of most of their line, and I suspect he's behind the recent string manufacturer change that they include with their new guitars. I have also noticed an overall shift from the "brightness" in the highs to a more pronounced mid-range/bass tonal quality. I have been a Taylor fan since 2002, when I bought my first...to this day, when I go into a guitar store, I will start out playing a couple of Martins, maybe a Gibson, but will gravitate back to the Taylors that are there. I have other brands I have bought, over the years,(Ibanez, Epiphone, Yamaha, D'Anjelico) and even loved some of them, but I still prefer three Taylors. My first, a 2002 414ce, a 2007 GS5 (my favorite), and recently, a 522ce 12-fret, all Mahogony, my first foray into slotted-headstocks. I would also point out that most of the major brands also offer custom-built guitars, including Taylor. As for the price complaints: the range of Taylors is from around $500 to $thousands, so there's something for everyone there... Nice video, btw. I enjoyed the balance, in your coverage of the subject!

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks for an insightful comment. It’s good to hear from an early adopter. Glad you liked the video!!

[@ianferguson3543]

My Taylor is a modern 414 ce-R and it sounds superb. I tried a friend’s old Taylor and I thought it had a wonderful tone.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

I feel like people with older Taylors need to do demos. I’m sure they sound great!! Thanks for watching mate.

[@travlintexas3118]

I have had a Taylor AD17e for about a year now, it is the best acoustic all around I have ever owned. I gifted my Martin to my son and kept the Taylor for myself!

[@sonusaurelius6576]

I’ve heard good things about the American dream series! Thanks for watching 😊

[@barrycole]

Professional musicians seem to love them. I have used Taylor since 2001 and am as happy as a clam.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks for watching!!

[@DjNikGnashers]

And how many other guitars have you played extensively to compare ?

[@barrycole]

@@DjNikGnashers Owned and played dozens over a period of sixty years. Every manufacture you could imagine.

[@DjNikGnashers]

@@barrycole ok, well that at least gives a lot of credibility to your opinion. Thank you. I have owned around 30 guitars, from over 20 brands, and I didn't like the Taylor sound. But, that is probably because I don't like bright sounding guitars, my Japanese Takamine was another example, others loved it. I found my perfect sound with my Lowden, a superbly balanced, yet warm top quality instrument,

[@VenancioPortalatin]

I have owned a few Taylor's and they always play /sound good but I have never been able to bond with them. They have a sound that's uniquely there brand and while it's a good sound I have never thought it was a great sound. That's just my feeling though and I wouldn't go so far as to say I hate them or they suck because neither is true. They're very well built instruments and as you stated extremely consistent across all the price levels they offer. I have many friends who swear by them and in live situations use the ES 2 pickup system and in their hands it sounds great. However, in my case they just haven't worked for me. It doesn't mean I have given up on the brand and am always open to trying new models and revisiting older ones because as someone who would consider myself a Professional musician my taste in instruments it always evolving so who knows if at some point a Taylor sound could be just what I'm looking for.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

You’re right it’s important not to tar all people who dislike Taylor as haters and it’s important to keep an open mind 😊 thanks for watching!!

[@davestrong8889]

Did a lot of playing and listening before I bought my Taylor 314CE for around $2k at the time I bought it. Maybe it’s my preference in tones, but I liked the Taylor over other comparably priced guitars. It has full rich tones, but also what Taylor calls sparkle. In any case, I like it.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

I like the sparkle too 😊 Thanks for watching mate!

[@jimvandemoter6961]

When I was looking for an acoustic guitar almost 20 years ago I tries a number of guitars in the $800.00- $1200.00 range. I finally got it down to Taylor, Martin and Breedlove. These were the most available where I lived. To my ear the Martin was too boomy, too much bass bias. The Breedlove was just plain bland. I finally settled on Taylor because, to my ear it had the most balanced sound and I felt the expression system had the most natural amplified sound.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts!!

[@smandez2023]

Yep, the NT neck is a reason to gravitate to Taylor, not run away. I agree that they are more modernly voiced, or someone’s definition of “bright “, but as a fingerpicker I need the treble spectrum to pop. Plus, show me a guitar out of the box that sounds and plays as great as an Academy Series guitar. The crazy thing is that even the MX made guitars are pretty sweet, and nobody does a layered back & sides guitar as good as Taylor. I can’t speak to their electronics though since I’ve never owned one.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Totally agree! Thanks for watching 😊

[@barrettflorida]

Went from a Taylor 214ce Deluxe to my current Taylor 714 cedar top. Absolutely love Taylor's. Also have a 214ce nylon. I get that Taylor's tend to be bright. My 714ce Cedar takes care of that issue

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Nice!! Thanks for watching mate

[@grog5564]

I love my Taylor guitar. It sounds great! The neck is smooth and definitely playable. I am left handed so my guitars are made to order. My Taylor was make in Cupertino California, says so on the Serial Number label. I hate my Martin, the neck is so rough that I could use it as an Emery board to file my fingernails. It was made in mexico, says so right on the serial number label.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Ha!!

[@jamesfe5]

I have a Taylor GS since 2006. Straight acoustic , no electrics. Its jumbo shaped but still has that Taylor treble tinnie sound. But the base notes are huge, like the say a piano sounding. But an annoying thing is , it has an extremely High pitched ringing drone behind all the chords your playing. Not sure where this comes from. I've tried changing all the individual parts, but its still there. Even tape under the nut slots . Funny thing was that I could just hear the same thing on the Taylor you did the pic up domo on. Previous video. This annoying sound wasn't alway there though. Have you any experience with this sound. Or am I going mad lol.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Do you mean the Taylor 818 demo had ringing? Sometimes guitars have annoying sympathetic resonances. It’s usually due to a combination of issues like uneven frets, neck angle, saddle height and choice of string gauge. Sometimes playing style can be the cause like hard strumming and fretting hand technique. A good setup can usually fix that but make sure you show the luthier what you’re concerned about. Hope that’s helpful!

[@jamesfe5]

@@sonusaurelius6576 yeah thats the one. 818 grand auditorium. You were testing the es2 pickup system after the luthier had it. I could hear that same High pitched notes through your stumming, but not as prominent as mine. This can't be electronics related, because my GS has none. But it has a place under the bolt on neck joint if you want to put one in. I have changed the shims on mine for a better neck angle. Thanx man , thats a help . Ill keep trouble shooting.. Maybe some people can hear it and some don't notice it. Or maybe I'm just half dog. Lol

[@cbayardelle]

I’m 73, I own 2 Martin, I also think that Taylor guitars have a bright not full enough sound. The only great thing is they don’t need a neck reset, I just paid over a grand for my 63 Martin neck reset, but it took 40 years for the reset.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

63 Martin!! Nice. Those days they most often made them with Brazilian rosewood, which is expensive now.

[@JohannesLabusch]

As a person who feels resentment against this brand that I can't really back up with a lot of playing experience, I think some factors play into this dislike that have very little to do with sound or playability. I think the strongest factor that's not being discussed a lot is the Coca Cola, Apple, Toyota effect. When a brand dominates a market, it becomes easy to hate them, because sometimes it's almost like you have no choice. Additionally, in music people love to see themselves as individualists with a strong, independent style. I've seen many guitar stores with literally an entire wall of Taylors, next to a tiny room with all the other brands crammed together. Watch bands on TV, and Taylors are everywhere. Even here on KZbin, I bet you see no other brand of acoustic guitar in as many videos. It's not even close. We all know that they can't hold a candle to carefully handcrafted boutique guitars like Santa Cruz, Collings, Boucher or Lowden. They're the Levi's jeans of acoustic, enjoyed by many, shunned by those who want something a little less obvious.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

👍🏼

[@boulderdesigner]

I have a Taylor AD12 and a 324 nylon. They both sound amazing to me and I have never experienced playability like the Taylors have right out of the box. It took me 8 years to try a Talor and now that is all I want to play.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks for sharing mate!!

[@brianclark641]

I have the AD12e and play it hours a day…love it so much

[@phanhuyduc2395]

Why you bought a nylon string from Taylor ? Thats a crime against humanity lol

[@rjlchristie]

I've had TWO pupils experience major set up problems on new Taylors from their soundboard doming due their seemingly over-sensitive susceptibility to highish humidity, The conditions they were stored/used in caused no problems with other well-known brands in the exact same environment*. One Taylor instrument had to be returned and replaced, as even Taylor's much touted neck shimming system could not compensate for the resultant raised action. This surprised me given their reputation for reliability. I do not claim that this experience is common, even the timber of the most expensive and well made instruments may sometimes suffer freak distortion. But there you go. * Temperate/sub-tropical area in northern New Zealand

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Yeah that’s weird! Thanks for sharing

[@VajrahahaShunyata]

I love the playability of a Taylor and I buy older ones with the Fishman prefix system, which I find to be much more tweakable as far as sound. The new pickep system has one sound only. I also find the older models bracing system gives a warmer sound That resonates more bass and mids. The new pickup system and brace are not as warm. I just buy older ones.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks for sharing. What years do aim for and do you find them easily?

[@VajrahahaShunyata]

@@sonusaurelius6576 very easy so far. I believe that Taylor started using the V brace in 2018 in the grand concert models and moved them into all guitars the next year or 2. The x brace in the older models sustains in the low mids n bass tone more. The v brace sustains/ resonates in the higher mid to treble range. I also love the Fishman prefix system that had a 4 slider eq. With a phase shifter switch and notch filter knob to dial out feedback on the fly, a slider to blend the piezo with the mike so you can decide how much percussion of the body you want or remove it completely and a seperatist volume knob. I still love the playability of the neck of a well made taylor . I don't hate them. I just prefer a warmer tone. I just picked up a 132-ce from 2002 for under $ n1000. One tiny ding n you would really have to look for under dim lighting. The action is super low. Without any buzzing, I can tweak it to sound like several guitars. You just can't do that with the new system. Its my #1 a Seagull is #2 for the action more than the sound, a Parkwood is #3 and I have a Luna for traveling as #4. I may get a Mitchell as a replacement and give the Luna to a friend. The Mitchell electric acoustics just improved. I was searching for a 300 -400 dollar range for my niece and was blown away by 3 out of 7 of them at a GC. Action, tone, intonation and I even plugged it in. Thats with me being super picky. Trying each fret and the other ones might be as good with a setup. I just personally dont buy a guitar that doesn't already have super low action. Without anything needing fixing. Music is my refuge.🙏👍

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Yeah playability is important! You’ve got quite a nice collection

[@billybudd45]

Had a baby once. I like them all, I like the 322 with sloted headstock. Like a Gypsy jazz machine . Also, killer 12 strings.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Nice one!! Thanks for watching mate.

[@rtmca1]

Oddly, the controversy over innovation for innovation’s sake, centers around Taylor’s shift from X TO V-CLASS bracing. Yet he did not mention this.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

You’re right! I missed that! Thanks for picking it up!

[@user-ky6wp3qx4c]

Overgeneralising for sure, but my experience is: Martin: superior bass response. Taylor: better action for a longer period of time. I don’t like the shape of the bridge and pickguard on most Taylors (too pointy). Martins under $1200 aren’t great. In recent years I play my D13 ($1400) more than my D28 (action too high).

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Completely agree on all points! Thank for taking the time to comment!!

[@GuitarTablatureSkill]

We try many Taylor. Without electronic, it were one of the best. With electronic? Nahhh….. too artificial and Taylor sound engineer need to do research on this. Martin, however, not on better position.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts

[@fordmi79]

I’m pretty positive that my dislike for Taylor guitars is unfounded and irrational, but it’s also strong. At this point, I’m mainly a Gibson dread guy. My go to guitar for gigs is an 08 Dove, and my #2 and #3 are mid 60s hummingbirds. I spend a lot of time at a shop where vintage and unique guitars are bought, repaired, set up, and sold. I’ve played so many different makes/models, and Taylor is probably the only brand that has never had at least 1 that clicked. I checked this video to see if something discussed might resonate with my predisposition, but I don’t think it’s any of what was discussed.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Yeah interesting points. Maybe some people can’t bond with certain guitars builders. I feel like that about some brands. Can’t put my finger on why but the guitar just isn’t for me and that’s ok. thanks for stopping by!!

[@mvp019]

I think Taylors are very good guitars - I currently own 3. (A 1997 814CE, a T5, and a T5Z, and recently sold a GS MIni). However, I think they are more like the "Hondas" of acoustic guitars, but they like to think of themselves as being a Mercedes or Porsche. They are solid performers but there are better guitars particularly at the higher price points. When I think of the cost of a 900 series, there are many other guitar brands at similar prices that I would MUCH rather have. As for earnings being a measure of anything in guitars, if we apply that logic to music itself, does that make Taylor Swift the greatest musician? Me thinks not. The GS Mini is one of their best ideas and products...ditto the T5 when used in certain situations.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Yeah I’ll cop that one. No logic to the earning debate. I’m sure says a lot about consumer choice and pricing though! When it comes to Taylor swift’s value as a musician/artist, again, consumer choice.

[@reddogdude]

For me it’s all about the sound/tone. I find Taylors to be beautiful with great “fit and finish” but I really dislike the tone. As a rule I find Taylors quite tinny. It’s too bad as they really are lovely guitars. I’ve had discussions with many others who agree. Now I have known others (fewer) who love Taylors and are ready to throw down on the haters. Maybe Taylors are like cilantro/coriander where some are genetically predisposed to dislike their tone.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Or like asparagus where some are genetically predisposed to smell it in their pee… or is that going too far? 🙃

[@gregorybetteridge8943]

I’ve been playing for 50 years and have owned just about every high end acoustic out there thru the years . Taylor’s have very good sound and very fast necks in general but what they lack is POWER. Bottom line they don’t like to be hit hard . Dig in to one and they’ll choke out. It’s just the way it is. Watch an award show on tv. Everyone is playing Taylor. That’s where they shine by being plugged in. . Go to a bluegrass jam. You won’t see one.. I play mostly classic rock so I’m pretty heavy handed and I had settled in to a HD 35 Martin but I liked the classic America sound of a Gibson. I liked the sound of a j45 but it didn’t have the power I wanted. I tried a j200 but that’s a bit of a wresting match . A lot of power but a lot of work to play. Then I discovered the Gibson Advanced Jumbo. At a glance you’ll mistake it for a j45. It’s not. It has the longer scale length that the j45. The Same as a Martin dreadnaught . That’s where the power comes from. I have a 1990 Gibson Advanced jumbo. There don’t seem to be too many around but this is about as close to a perfect acoustic as I could find. It only took me 35 years to find it.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Great story!! Thanks for sharing.

[@ED-wj5tp]

My opinion, ok, Taylor guitars tend to have what people call the “ Taylor ring” , it’s a high end sound, sharpness, twang, whatever you want to call it, some like it some don’t. How a guitar is played, obviously, effects the sound and Taylor’s seem to be easier to play which lends to the beginner, thus people hear more beginners playing on a Taylor and they draw an opinion on a guitars sound based off of the player’s ability and not off the instruments true sound or mature players sound. Also Taylor’s tend to have less mids which works well with the singer’s voices fitting into that spot.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Great points! Thanks for sharing

[@FlipDahlenburg]

One of the main problems with Taylor, fundamentally, beside the pickups, is that they make just too damn many guitars! They need more Helter and less Skelter. It's the computer lasers which brought this condition on; it's an avoidable situation.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Interesting point! Thanks for watching

[@bitwise2832]

I have had my 214CE for 15 years. Plays quite well. My only complaint is the ES1. BUT, a there is is no alternative for a good mic. Use the AKG 420. Rich full sound using that.

[@sonusaurelius6576]

Yeah the ES1 isn’t very good. Such a good point. You have to have a good mic to get the most out of your guitar in the studio.