Taylor 314 CE vs Maton EBG 808 C - Acoustic Guitar Shootout | Adam Rafferty

[@ServantofChrist81]

This is the video that got me to order this exact Michael Fix model from artisan guitars in Nashville and sell my Taylor 314ce. Have had many guitars come and go but none sound like the Maton. None! And still play it , it’s incredible!!

[@Spudsoffroad]

Just bought myself an M225 which has some sort of pre amp installed (aftermarket) loving the Maton sound!

[@chrishammonds72]

I own 2 Maton’s In the SRS series and love them both.

[@plimtaku]

This is a great shoot out thanks. I have a Taylor which is my main live acoustic and it’s always been problematic getting it to sound good. So much so that I have two pick-up systems in it. I think you nailed it when you mentioned how they are voiced. Lots of bass and sparkle.

[@daveross8879]

the expression system is woeful, I cant believe people still buy them

[@KM2558-o1y]

I sold my Taylor 317e and bought a Maton Performer, pick up wise there is no comparison

[@rickbarber3095]

Wow. The Maton sounded much fuller than the Taylor. I'm a huge Taylor fan and have heard them display unbelievable tone in a live setting. But in your shoot out I concede the Maton won. Enjoyed the vid!

[@adamrafferty]

THANKS RICK!

[@HarryNicNicholas]

like all things you have to try it for yourself, i admit i've only played one taylor in my time, and i was drunk, so, take what you will from that, but i have an ebg808TE and it's amazing. a-mazing. not just good. i go through my current collection in some videos i posted recently, bad sound quality i'm afraid by the maton is in there.

[@dadgadfolkmusic200]

thank you, both guitars are lacking a good bass projection when played acoustically and that also applies to the 314 plugged in.

[@Trifoiler41]

Adam, nice comparison. I always thought when plugged in the Maton’s - sound superb. Whatever Maton has going on inside their electronic pickup sounds richer & full then both, Taylor’s & Martin’s, from what I have heard during live small stage performances. You are spot on! Love to see n hear more videos like this from you. Keep them coming!

[@adamrafferty]

Thank you! :-)

[@HarryNicNicholas]

@@adamrafferty what i found with my maton is that if it's not quite in concert pitch it sounds really dull, but get it spot on and it sings - ever notice that, like it's tuned to the wood? it might just be me, i admit i'm weird. (i do a few badly recorded comparisons on my own channel).

[@greglarry11]

Thank you for the video. Great comparison. You can really hear the highs on the Taylor.

[@carldavies1023]

Love it and a great comparison. I play a Cole Clark and a Mini Maton at home, but I am an ex English Aussie living in Aus. I also play a Simon & Patrick and working my way (wallet wise) to a Taylor. Thanks for the great work.

[@adamrafferty]

Cool, thanks!

[@dinhduong3177]

The price of the Taylor 314CE cost more than the Maton EBG 808C, It's uncomfortable when you put the Taylor down on the guitar stand with the cable. The pick up system's not very good.!

[@joebloggs2312]

Taylor and Maton have actually worked together and "shared" R&D. Taylor helped Maton to make a good mini and Maton helped Taylor to make good pickup systems.

[@adamrafferty]

Could have fooled me I don’t like Taylor’s pickups!

[@christianvaz-od2cq]

Interesting alliance.

[@keithyoung4290]

Been playing my Maton 808s out gigging since 2009, I have 2. Both TE 808s. One with cutaway, one without. I tried ALL the great electro-acoustics before someone showed me the Maton. I'd never heard of them at the time. They are the BEST for plugged in sound - Period. Especially if you are playing solo fingerstyle, or even singer/songwriter strumming gigs. But - if you're using it in a band setting then you'll need the right sound to cut through the other instruments - so then something less "detailed" and less "hifi" will do the job. Like a Takamine etc. I play in an acoustic duo. In a pub setting, through the PA, nice and loud above the noise of the crowd, you won't do better than a Maton.

[@adamrafferty]

I agree!

[@feralman]

Agree 100%. I have a Taylor and a Mason too, for this exact reason. I play my Taylor acoustically and/or if I mic it. and I use the Mason when plugged in/live.

[@harwindho]

Still prefer the sound of Maton, those round sound is hard to beat for me

[@christianvaz-od2cq]

Maton!!

[@ronaldrobbins2761]

Let me tell you how helpful this video was on 4/2/23. I have several Taylors and 1 Maton. Today and yesterday I am playing guitar on Turn, Turn, Turn and Dust In The Wind behind a 50 voice chorus. Yesterday I used a 1999 Taylor 710BCE with the old Fishman pick-ups. Even though acoustically I love the booming bass on this guitar I wasn't completely happy with sound through my Fishman amp connected to the large P.A. system. My Maton sounds less full acoustically just as you describe in this video. So for today I am going to switch from the 25th Taylor Anniversary Brazilian Rosewood to either the Maton or a Taylor 514 ce with the more updated pickups. I think I am going with the Maton. Thanks for helping me make this choice.

[@adamrafferty]

RIght on!

[@nledelnr]

Brilliant. Thanks for doing more than the side by side. Adding your personal experience with the sound of each in different settings helps in-experienced guitar shoppers make better choices.

[@adamrafferty]

My pleasure! Yes it's all about what happens when the rubber hits the road, more than comparing details.....

[@denda2643]

Thank you very much for this helpfull comparison. Its very well done and i really appreciate und value your opinion on this. You rock, Adam.

[@adamrafferty]

Thanks & groove on! 😊

[@solidworksformation3d]

C'est cool, merci Adam et surtout garde ton sourire, ça fait du bien. Eric.

[@bluesmaniaman]

Very nice shootout!! I have both Maton EBG808ARTIST and Taylor 912ce since 2013 and feeling the same on your video. Now it’s clear!! Keep on playing my babies.

[@michaelbrown6472]

I noticed that while your video stated that the EQ settings were nil, on the Taylor I could see that they were not! For a Taylor EMS the "0" setting has the EQ knobs at "12 O'clock". The Treble and Bass knobs boost about 12 o'clock, and reduce below 12 o'clock. So actually the EQ was certainly flat - in fact, flat out pedal to the metal!

[@adamrafferty]

Michael - thank you. The new ES systems are better, but mine - circa 2007 sounded crappy no matter waht. Since this vid, I have replaced with an LR Baggs Anthem, and it's 1000% improvement. Groove on!

[@edcharland9004]

Thanks Adam. I play several Taylors, but never tried a Maton...yet!

[@adamrafferty]

Go for it!

[@paolospadaro]

Ciao Adam! I have a Taylor 814ce and I tried to empty it of the mids, the final result is significantly improved. Also the only amplifier that makes me play my Taylor very well is the Rivera Sedona with the balanced channel, totally tube. Ciao, Paolo.

[@adamrafferty]

Yes, finding the right amp is key.

[@dirtwfox]

Taylor pickups: I owned a 314ce and a 414ce with the older Fishman pickups a loved those guitars. I purchased an 814CE with the expression pickup and was not happy with it on stage. I love the guitar so I actually removed the expression pickup and installed a Fishman matrix. Problem solved but a damned shame to need to do that on a $4,000.00 guitar. Personally I hate the expression pickup system. It cost me a lot of extra money to change it out. I initially contacted Taylor and the tech guy I talked to said I could sell the guitar and buy one without a pickup and put in whatever I liked but that would probably have cost even more money.

[@adamrafferty]

Ditto - the expression system sucked, and they insisted to me it was great. I swapped in an LG Baggs Anthe pickup and it sounds 100% better. Wow that 814 must be a beauty!

[@jhn1987]

I am not a fan of the Taylor ES1. I do think the ES2 gives a much warmer, more realistic amplification of Taylor’s acoustic sound. In my opinion, Taylor’s 300 series is their best bang for the buck. I would be interested in hearing a comparison of the Taylor ES2 with the Maton.

[@birdfrankenreiter9832]

Heard you with the Maton years ago, maybe 10 years ago, in a wine hotel with a AER in Wuerzburg Germany. Remember the Sound as perfekt as can get... wow. I was stunned about your playin and your nice ways!

[@adamrafferty]

Bird thank you and I will be back in the area Fall 2023.

[@robertwallace8533]

Nice comparison and demo. Thank you.

[@larrymoser6455]

I own two custom shop matons one is the tommy road model and the other is a customshop classic sunburst rosewood. I will just say that they are both crazy good acoustically with huge acoustic voices dramatically larger and higher quality than the older production matons but individually having opposite tone signatures. The classic having a huge bass sound and the tommy road having just a killer mid quality whenever I show them off acoustically, everyone freaks out over the classic saying “that’s the one!! “ .....when plugged in and playing folk style and singing over, the classic is hands down...the best instrument the world has ever produced . My acoustic/electric rig is a Tommy Aer di’d into a schertler jam 400 di’d into a modern Bose tower and large sub and all I can say is the acoustic /electric experience just doesn’t get any better than that ! But the “ road”is awesome too just without the incredible bass but with superior mids and better feel for tommy/Adam finger style playing. Of course they cost $6 to 7 k if you can find one. Sorry for the gushing... just wanted to spread the facts as I know them !

[@adamrafferty]

Larry - I bet. Maton has an incredible custom shop and variety of instruments. These that I have are 2 off the shelf working guy instruments...partially because if I tour I want stuff that is replaceable (more or less) - but yeah, I'd love a Matn custom. The expensive Taylors also are really nice, in their way....rock on! AR

[@cwsgershwin]

Enjoyed the video. Great comparison. Nice playing as always. I've got a Maton SRS808CE. Very fun to play, and like your Michael Fix a quiet guitar unplugged. Plugged in or not, I struggle to get the melody note to come out with the Maton, vs Taylors I have played. However I prefer the overall sound of the Maton. Thanks again.

[@Gigirizzolihhhhyyy]

Tell me more about that Melody note issues, sir

[@picker63028]

New pickup system! Bought a new Taylor 814ce in 2006. It had the ES1 pickup system which failed. They replaced it and it worked ok but like you it sucked plugged in. After years of trying different amps, a Fishman Aura Spectrum and Baggs Para DI I was ready for trading guitars. My last ditch effort I self installed a K&K style soundboard pickup system made JJB. It transformed my guitar into the wonderful rich sounding acoustic I had hoped for. With any preamp and good amp it's incredible. Look for a better pickup and you will be happy. Please note I haven't used it on a bandstand so feedback may be an issue there. Works great in my home studio.

[@namgiang3107]

best comparison video on these 2 kinds of guitars I've ever seen on KZbin, thank you Sir! An easy subscription from me!

[@adamrafferty]

Oh man, thank you!!

[@SeverinGomboc_Musik]

that's a great comparison Adam! thanks for the vid. But i also have to say: you sound good on any guitar man.

[@developwebsites]

Adam, Thanks for this video. The biggest challenge is to get any guitar setup right so you're not fighting with it. Do you have suggestions on neck adjustments and string height especially for finger style?

[@adamrafferty]

Yes ! Please go a google search on “Adam Rafferty My Personal Setup Measurements “ and you’ll find a post with the exact measurements I got from a super luthier!

[@jaygribbin6790]

It was like you'd swapped the badges between acoustic and pickup.Amazing

[@cyrilerbin5470]

Thx man, I tried both guitars and I have to say that you're absolutely right; I went for a Taylor as I mostly play unplugged. 2 great guitars anyway!

[@antunjakupcic]

You mentioned putting a better pickup in Taylor. Have you already put it? Because I have Taylor 114ce and everything you mentioned about ES2 system is true. I don’t like Taylor’s while being plugged in. I’m planning to put another pickup (maybe Maton’s AP5PRO. I compared my Taylor and Maton srs70c and everything in this video happened to me. Besides, Taylor’s ES2 is very quiet compared to Maton’s AP5PRO. So, if you have already put another pickup in Taylor, can you please me tell me the experience whether the sound has improved while being plugged in?

[@adamrafferty]

Hey! I got an LB Baggs ANTHEM pickup and it's great - probnlem solved 100% - www.thomann.de/at/lrbaggs_anthem.htm

[@iamshanephillips]

Great comparison of my two favorite guitars. I have one of each. Only play at home for fun and I love Taylor unplugged and maton plugged in. Never really thought about what made them different but there it is. 🇦🇺🍻👍

[@johnberg2902]

I am a Taylor lover. I have three of them the 314CE, nylon NS32CE and a T5, all set up for fingerpicking. Thank you for confirming my choice. I love fingerpicking and I play alone. At home.

[@markhernden9472]

Great video. I fully expected the Maton to be louder and fuller than the Taylor played unplugged so that was a surprise. Over the years I've owned a Guild, Takamine, Ibanez and Larrivee among others but my favorite by far is my 2013 Taylor 314ce. Great sound as heard here and unmatched playability. I have a little Fishman Loubox Mini amp and the Taylor sounds great plugged in. To each his own though. Keep up the great work.

[@adamrafferty]

Thanks for watching!

[@martonvalcz5492]

Hi Adam, What about the fingerboard radius? The Taylor has a 15", and the Maton has a 12". Which do you prefer for fingerstyle? Also, I've noticed that with a Grand Auditorium body size, when I play in a sitting position, it becomes uncomfortable after a while, at least for me. It doesn't matter when I'm standing.

[@adamrafferty]

Yea on all points, I prefer the Maton neck and the smaller body.

[@BikeBoatandTravel]

Very interesting comparison Adam. As you pointed out the it ends up being the best sound for the application. I play a Taylor 514CE (Circa 2002) mostly unplugged. Mine has the old Fishman pre-amp. When I record with it I tend to gravitate toward mics over the the pickups. Cheers Mate!!

[@adamrafferty]

Recording - yes mics usually sound best!

[@henryolsenguitar]

Cool video man, I really enjoyed watching!

[@hschaefer1]

Thanks for the comparison. I have 2 Taylors and just tried a a Maton for the first time at a local music store. Not sure if the Maton was not set up right, but I felt the Taylor was easier to play. I've heard about issues with the Taylor Expression 1 and 2 systems, but have not experienced them. I rarely play my Taylors out. I use a Martin for that. I like that the Taylors play very similar regardless of model. The woods give a different tone. I was not compelled to buy the Maton.

[@adamrafferty]

Harold, stores will never compel anyone to buy a Maton - you have to go in already knowing that it's a stage tool. As well, you cant judge in a store the "playability" because all left hand stuff can be adjusted on guitars. Overall tone, body feel - those will not change though :-)

[@wellcpires]

I have a Taylor 314 CE and also didn't like the Expression System pickup. I have installed the LR Baggs M80 and I'm very satisfied.

[@tommc49]

I could not ask for a more relevant video. I think you have saved me some money. I have a 2016 Taylor 316ce which looks identical to your 314 and I have been tempted to buy a Maton 808 but have not had the opportunity to play one. I agree 100% with your assessment of the Taylor. I've been trying to decide between upgrading the pickup in the Taylor (probably LR Baggs Anthem) or buying a Maton. Given that most of my playing is home or unplugged and I'm quite comfortable with the ergonomics of the Taylor having owned it for 6 years, I'm going to pursue the pickup change vs new guitar. Not to mention the fact that I'm old and should be selling guitars, not buying. Thanks for posting.

[@adamrafferty]

Oh man, glad you enjoyed. I play the Maton live all the time. If you are just playing at home, and want to amplify once in a while, get the LR Baggs anthem - I did, it's super. Groove on!

[@tommc49]

@@adamrafferty Thanks for the reply. The other pickup I have been impressed with is the one from Go Acoustic Audio although it is more expensive than the Baggs. Do you know anything about that pickup?

[@tommc49]

@@adamrafferty Another pickup that has impressed me is from Go Acoustic Audio, a bit more expensive than the Baggs. Do you know anything about these? Also, what is your amplifier of choice for live or are you always direct?

[@ggus8512]

Oh man that Maton pickup system is so musical and mellow!

[@zatoichiable]

The best topic so far for me... i hope you will talk about mini guitars or short scale acoustic guitars...

[@aaronshortmusic]

I’m a big Maton and Cole Clark fan but I do think that the latest Taylor ES2 system sounds better than the original system. It would be good to know your thoughts on that compared to the AP5 Pro.

[@adamrafferty]

Would love to try it. Thank you!

[@andrewksadventures]

Price wise the Maton is a signature series, so its a fair bit more than a standard Maton. The standard ebg would be a closer match to thr Taylor. Also they have a wonderfully affordable all solid series now called the SRS808C and it would probably be cheaper than the Taylor. With a Cedar top they sound big and warm. Incredible value for money.

[@kevingill648]

The Maton sounds fabulous!

[@jvp0506]

Thank you Adam. Very interesting and very well produced. In my opinion, though, you left out one important Maton attribute. Maton's have wonderful percussive qualities, particularly the right thumb technique of tapping the bass strings which causes a snare drum effect when the strings vibrate against the fretboard. You can actually hear this clearly if you listen for it in your shoot out video. I have a Maton EGB808CL I also have a Zager and two Martins. The Maton is so much more percussively responsive than the other guitars. When I'm in a groove, it feels like the Maton is playing a snare drum on its own. I've been enjoying your playing for quite a while and have watched your style continue to evolve. You definitely play funkiest on your Mike Fix. Said another way, I think you pick up your Maton when you want to funk out.

[@adamrafferty]

Yes the Maton is great for percussion Joe!

[@michael_caz_nyc]

I went to 4 guitar shops, compared 5 brands, played 22 guitars = Purchased a Taylor 414ce-R . . . Phenomenal sounding & playing guitar. I agree the pickup system is not-that great. I prefer the one on my 1995 Ovation Black Legend. They both sound fantastic. Enjoyed you demo & playing. oNe LovE from NYC

[@lueneburger8937]

What strings do you use? Phosphor-Bronze or nickel-bronze strings?

[@adamrafferty]

Either Phosphor Bronze or 80/20 - I simply order Martin acoustic strings with 12 on. Top. Main thing is a NEW set before recording or before a gig so everything is brighter and more in tune.

[@sjd7aa]

Great video. Very easy to hear - and agree with - your assessment of the differences.

[@adamrafferty]

Thank you Steve! 😊

[@dkijc]

My thoughts exactly. Pickup sounds just can't be matched!

[@jurgenstoll2394]

Hey Adam, great comparison. I learned a lot about the differences. Greetings from Hamburg

[@adamrafferty]

Glad it was helpful!

[@randyfreeman8232]

Hi Adam, years ago at NAMM I ran into you and you were playing a Cole Clark guitar. You had just decided Taylor wasn't quite up to the rigors of being your touring guitar. I would love to check out Maton guitars but there are no dealers in my area. They seem like a great guitar for a reasonable price. Thanks for the video. By the way, check out Barbera picks-ups if you decide to put something in the Taylor 314. Kirk Sands who builds John Knowles and Richard Smith's guitars is putting one in my Santa Cruz OM PW. It's a passive transducer and sounds awesome.

[@adamrafferty]

Thansk Randy - will check. Th eCC's are good to but in Bangkok did a shootout against Matons, and in 2009 the Maton also won :-). Say hi to Kirk!

[@stevec.1802]

Loved your presentation and comparison of these two models. Spot on with your observations and experience. I’ve played the 514ce and can hear some similarities between the 314 and 514. As for the Maton it’s definitely a keeper as well. I’d be interested to hear the difference Maton MF808 compared to an 808 made of rosewood with spruce top. & Love your playing as much as the guitars. Thank you. 🎧

[@hidesertmusic]

The Taylor is from 2008? Try a new one with the ES2 system and the V bracing. The current costs of the Maton is around $3600. The Taylor is $2200. Now o could pick up an 814ce to be competitive pric level. I have, among my 8 Taylor’s, an 816ce Builders Edition, a bit pricier at $3999 but we’ll worth it. Love your playing.

[@adamrafferty]

I bet the ES2 is better - thank you!

[@croggers1]

Es2 is definitely better but I installed an LR Bags anthem into my Taylor with ES2 and it’s much much better than the es2. I’d love to hear a comparison of a Taylor with an anthem and the Maton. I think those pickups are more similar. (Mic with piezo) Although the maton pickup has more options regarding tone shaping.

[@abnuridd24]

Seamless transition from one guitar to the other around the 6 min mark. Really cool. The first change I noticed was when you were sliding up the neck on the taylor. I've learned Taylors have a wide neck that provides the shimmering highs you talk about but can be tough to maneuver. I watched a review for ovation guitars, I was looking to get a nylon. The guy stated how the particular model he was demonstrating has great pickup, it's consistent with what you're saying because the model was a skinny body, compact neck, still had a full sound. I'm learning more about how the structure of a guitar affects the sound but honestly I have moved away from Taylors, I just feel like my hands are too small haha. Thanks as always!

[@adamrafferty]

Thank you abnuridd24! :-)

[@DMart58]

Are the tone-woods the same in both guitars? If not that could make a big difference? The 314 is slightly larger body than the Maton no? Thanks David

[@adamrafferty]

David there’s so much to compare… The woods are different, the body sizes different, the pick ups are different, the bracing is different. You really need to have two guitars that are identical and only swap out one variable to have a true comparison… And that said I have two Taylor 314s that are allegedly the same model but have different characters. So what I’ve done is a rather broad but I think pretty reliable review of the differences. The Taylor is louder, more bassy , and brighter in the trebles. And the pick up does not sound great but I put an LR Baggs Anthem into mine and it sounds very good now. The Maton is a small sounding guitar… That’s why Tommy Emmanuel called his the mouse. But the pick up is really good. It never lets me down live. That said I liked the old AP system better than the newer one I got but all in all it totally delivers and it’s a stage guitar. Certainly does not sound as good to my ear acoustically. As far as going out on stage and doing a gig, I plug the Maton into my AER app and I pretty much get my sound right away so that’s the tools for Battle!

[@leecanning123]

i would love to also add in to this comparison a cole clark angel 2. great review thankyou.

[@pierrevezina2729]

Hi Adam. Thanks for your video. Very interesting. I like both. Your playing is really nice. What kind of strings do you use? And what gauge ?

[@adamrafferty]

Hey! I use Martin Strings with 12-53 as the gauge. Sometimes 80/20 sometimes Phosphor Bronze, whetever is available. Groove on!

[@RyanChenMusic]

Agree with everything said! Worth noting that I think Maton revoiced and rebraced the 808s around 2013, and then new 808s are considerably louder than the old ones. My ebg808c micfix is of the old batch and I totally get what you're saying, it's honestly not very inspiring when playing acoustically. I find it has a kinda spongy tone (though when recorded for lead it has a very sweet tone).

[@adamrafferty]

I'd love a new one, but I can get the job done with this one!

[@alchemi5150]

Love them both.

[@Acoustic_Music-h6x]

I recently tried a Schertler Jam amp and it makes my Taylor 314 ES2 sound truly amazing with a little eq tweaking. A session pedal from LR Baggs improves the ES2 system considerably too. Have not tried IRs though. Would love to hear your thoughts on IRs.

[@robharris6874]

The Matons are a lot less expensive in Australia !

[@adamrafferty]

Absolutely!

[@KKoerli]

To my ears, when miked, the maton sounds more "gentle" and, again in my opinion, suites your gentle playstyle a lot more. Great comparision, thanks.

[@adamrafferty]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@guitarado]

thank you for this. I am on the crossroad because cant decide between 3 guitars, taylor 314ce, m.fix and nashville maton...

[@adamrafferty]

Are you playing only at home or on stage & live?

[@guitarado]

@@adamrafferty home but i have a good amp, looper, fx... My dream is to have many gigs..

[@adamrafferty]

@@guitarado The Maton pickups are way cooler for playing live - so you'll be cool with a Maton. The Taylor is a little more fun acoustically. I replaced my Taylor pickup with an LG Baggs Anthem. Still for live - I use the Maton!!!

[@guitarado]

@@adamrafferty I have a slovak guitar DOWINA master class, in the price range similar to these mentioned two models. it has anthem pickup too and plays perfectly. Top board is sitka spruce and sides and back is from slovak oak tree... I had to set the action by my luthier

[@Edwin-E]

very informative and great comparison

[@adamrafferty]

Edwin - thank you so much 😊

[@Dian2Gig]

Great comparison! I agree with you on both. I am a short scale fan of Martin and Tanglewood and just ordered a new PRS Parlor from Sweetwater. All different woods, all different focuses of tone.

[@adamrafferty]

Would love to play the PRS. Thank you!

[@vaughnmaurt5013]

And I do agree about both unplugged…thanks for the video

[@TheG7thcapo]

I owned a 314ce for 13 years. I love it. Not the beat out there but it works

[@hireahome]

Hi from New Zealand, Adam! Which guitar has the best playability? Eg low action, neck comfort etc

[@adamrafferty]

They are both comfy. Necks , frets action can always be adjusted. I like the smaller body of the Maton though :-) But that's a odel issue - you can get Taylors with small body.

[@bernietmusic]

Thanks for the awesome video and comparison! I've been playing a 2012 Taylor 314CE since it was new. Dong a lot of solo pub type gigs. Been considering trying to get my hands on a Maton as an alternative. I've really liked the sound of the Maton. I have always loved the playability and the unplugged tone of the Taylor but at times have really struggled with the ES1 electronics. A good LR Baggs Venue preamp di was a must for my live sound. I finally gotcfed up with Taylor electronics and installed the LR Baggs Anthem pickup system in 2021. Very happy with that upgrade. Now to see if I can find a Maton to add to the arsenal. Love your playing and video!

[@tonyblaszak3908]

I just traded in my new 314CE for a Mike Fix Maton used. I just found this video. I play and record plugged in most of the time and have a D-28 for unplugged. One thing I didn't like about the 314ce. ( String Buzz) especially at the G sting 2nd and 3rd fret. Had it setup twice by two different Luther's. I went around town and played several Taylors including 314's and others and guess what ? They all buzz. That's probably not a problem with a lot of players but it bugged the heck out of me so I traded it in for the Maton. I held off on a Maton because there are none in Portland to try before you buy so I am taking a chance based on opinions I have read including Adam Rafferty. I think I will be very happy. The guitar arrives here from Buffalo in a couple days.

[@tonyblaszak3908]

Oh ! I thought the Taylor Pickup system is weak. Compared to my Martin which has a K &K installed the Taylor has very little Gain. I have played on stage with other Taylors and it was the same thing.

[@adamrafferty]

Tony As the video states, the Maton is a winter when it’s plugged in. Don’t judge it by acoustic sound. Although it is a very pleasing small tight focused sound it’s just not that loud he’ll always be the quietest guy at an all acoustic session. Plug that sucker in though and you’ve got a machine gun! Enjoy it.

[@jimincal]

Hey Adam. Thanks for the "shootout." Comments and a question: I notice that Queensland Maple is thought of as a substitute for Mahogany, so I think that your comparison made lots of sense, and I agree with your conclusions (microphone vs. pickup sound). I'm in SoCal and thus have lots of access to the Taylor family of guitars. I have yet to come across a Maton guitar here. As you know, Taylor's 300 series is toward the lower end of the "hundreds models," i.e., the solid wood models go from 300s to 900s (I'm not counting Grand Concert, Grand Auditorium, etc.). My question is, where does your Maton guitar stand within the Maton guitar line? Lower end? Middle? Upper? I would definitely like to know more about these guitars. [Anyone who can provide helpful info ... please add your insight] THANKS!

[@adamrafferty]

Hey! I'd say my Maton is middle - high. It has a better pickup with mic, not just undersaddle. I believe that factory line axes should play good, so I often don't get custome guitars. Heck, teh sound is me most of the time, I just need a vehicle for that! Any brand will offer a span of prices to suit different buyers...

[@hscottcpa]

How ironic? On a Zoom call in early April I asked you why you switched from Taylor to Maton and you gave me this explanation. Then I started seeing the Taylor again and I thought I “guilted” you into digging out your ok’d Taylor when it re-emerged! 🤣 (I didn’t really think that but it was a cool coincidence. ) There is an old saying in golf (and forgive the politically incorrect language) when golfers try to improve their game by purchasing more expensive equipment, “it’s not the arrow it’s the Indian. “ You make both guitars sound fantastic and I’d be happy if I could get my Taylor 414 to sound even 1/8 as good as your 314. Thanks for the great demo. It was very informative and makes me grateful for the instrument I own!!

[@adamrafferty]

Scott - that's par of why I don't go out of my way for super pricey custom guitars. I simply need something playable. Then it's up to me to make the music :-)

[@RamonMartinez-xk6il]

Gran Maestro ,Fantastica y acertada comparativa , estaba dudando entre las dos para comprar y tener 90% en casa .Ademas creo que la 314 ha sido mejorada con el V-Class

[@danielquaile2960]

I'm late to the party with this video, but one thing that is not mentioned in the video is the size difference between the two guitars. The 808 is a smaller body than a standard Dreadnought, but Taylor's body shapes are hard to categorize sometimes. Is there much difference between the upper & lower bouts and body depth?

[@markstaggs7342]

I love all guitars I own seven high end Taylor's and one Martin 1980 D-28, I've had every guitar you can name, my opinion is Taylor guitars are absolutely the best guitars in the world ,But that's only my opinion .

[@primdmit4154]

Hi, Adam! What if AP-5 system to install into your Taylor? Would it become an ideal guitar both great plugged and unplugged? Thanks a lot for your work!

[@adamrafferty]

I’m sure it would be epic but the AP5 can’t be bought separately…

[@njslim]

Great shootout! Honestly, I thought that if you turned the Maton up a teeny bit, it would have fared a lot better in the acoustic section. It has a much more focused tone. As a recording instrument, I'd pick that one. The old Taylor pickup is the reason I never bought a Taylor when I was on the hunt. I'd love to see a shootout with the newer version of the Taylor pickup ... if I understand right, the bridge might need to be modified a tiny bit, and that's a scary thing. Thanks, Adam, I always love your playing.

[@adamrafferty]

Thanks for commenting! Yes, I heard the Maton as quieter too - but one of the reasons I didn't turn it up was that I wanted it to represent exactly what the mic heard. So if you were in the same room, you can expect that dip in Maton acoustic volume in real life. Regarding the Taylor, a 3rd party company sent me an acoustic pickup to try, I have been dragging feet - so I may have it put in eth Taylor. :-). Rock on!

[@njslim]

@@adamrafferty Thanks for the reply! I find that lately, I've been digging smaller body acoustics in general. I hope you put up the results if you do change the pickup!

[@Edson080866]

Obrigado, Adam. Muito obrigado!

[@adamrafferty]

Thank you Edson! :-)

[@unicorneggspam]

This is a great comparison. I often see martins compared to high end takamine but that always seemed weird to me. Seems Taylor is a much better comparison.

[@KM2558-o1y]

I had a Taylor 317e and just couldn’t take to the ES2 pick up, I sold the 317e and bought a Maton Performer which sounded great from the gecko with its AP 5 Pro pick up. I also have a Taylor A12 en (nylon strings) and replaced the Taylor pick up with an L R Baggs pick up, it sounds so much better!

[@marilynjune8084]

MATON. Has changed the Bracing on the 808 I am wondering if you have played an 808 with the new bracing and if it has changed your thoughts on couch playing with the 808 ?

[@adamrafferty]

I'd LOVE to try one. I have 2 of my EGB 808s so I can't justify buying a 3rd right now :-)

[@pacmanbeni]

Very interesting, I have same Taylor 314 since 10 years and I can tell is one of the most comfortable to play for my hands,45 mm wide neck at nut and its "soft v"shape make it perfect for clean and comfortable fingerpicking...but my 314 I think it has particularly more midrange balance than other guitars with same size but other woods on body, mahogany back and sides use to up midrange. What kind of strings are you using on it? Thanks, regards!!

[@pacmanbeni]

And,yes I'm agree with you, Taylor has not so good preamp,it has too much hiss...y have a takamine tan16 too as n it souns more clear,cleen an dynamic...buy for my surprise ,best guitar I've tried for live purpose is a Yamaha ls16,it has a very simple undersaddle pickup,no controls,no battery cause its passive sistem .. but has an output level too high unbelievable,te noise-signal ratio is the best I've ever heard, sounds all clean, clear with dynamics that make you play better... and unplugged is one of more powerful guitars I've played (an knowing that LS is small size,LJ and LL sizes are really powerful)...I recommend you to taste it Adam,the price is a joke,850€ here in Europe for rosewood and 700€ for mahogany all solid,both with engelman spruce tops, really cheap for its quality ...try it when you'll got the chance ;)

[@adamrafferty]

Just went to Martin 11's after years of 12's and it's oh so comfy!

[@pacmanbeni]

@@adamrafferty ...and what about the kind of strings you like more? 😊

[@markstaggs7342]

In my honest opinion I love both guitars but I love that Taylor and that's why I have seven Taylor guitars .

[@jenschristen677]

So it goes! I play an old Fat Lady 1 on stage. I‘m a fan of this sound. It‘s a little bit smaller and thinner than from the Matons. But if you play it with other musicians it‘s the one, which make the sound fat. But the best acoustic sound I reach with my 1997 „Cujo“ Taylor. I‘ve bought it and first I have a lot of Problems with the neck. It was too big. But now I git it. and it‘s marvelous. Top vid. Thx Adam!

[@adamrafferty]

Thank you Jens Christen! :-)

[@insaneinthebrain1978]

Spot on! Great vs.

[@rickbates3463]

Have you tried any of the other model maton? I they have bigger sounding models w same pickup

[@adamrafferty]

Only played a TE model now and then....I don't know custom shop models & others....thank you!

[@FrankSpeer66]

Great video, thank you! Where do you keep the microphone placed on your Maton? EVERYTHING at noon? Thank you

[@guitarmaned5884]

That Maton pickup sure sounds GOOD :) Query: Why not replace the ES1 system in your Taylor with the Maton pickup, which can be purchased separately? Or consider replacing the ES1 with a similar "Blend" style pickup such as the Baggs Anthem or Fishman Infinity Matrix "Blend" (which also has a flexible gooseneck soundhole mic similar to the Maton)? Then you'd have the best of both worlds :)

[@adamrafferty]

I am planning on doing that, I have not decided what pickup yet....it's between LGR Baggs & Fisman - any thoughts?

[@danielquaile2960]

@@adamrafferty Not sure if you've made the decision yet, but I highly recommend the Fishman. Beautiful sound, and plenty of compliments from the audience!

[@LittleMAC78]

I have a question relating to your tapping style (which I've shamelessly adopted since seeing your Superstition video!!), do either of them pick up the intended 'snare' type sound when plugged in or does it come through more like a thud. I've played a Taylor and Martin in the past that both sounded great until I started to slap my thumb against the string and then the effect I was after was lost when playing DI.

[@adamrafferty]

Please see my "click" video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hX6YgWerlNl9bcU The Taylor makes the sound too sharp. The Maton - all depends on eth mic setting Each guitar & pickup is different. Rock on!

[@carlitos0946]

Ciao Adam i wish to by a Maton Michael Fix with the Apmic pickup, what you think about this pickup ?

[@xxmanx1]

Adam, when you use your bare thumb, do you used your thumb nail at all or just the fleshy side part of your thumb?

[@adamrafferty]

Just flesh! Please check out my new “weird technique” video for more up close details! Thank you 😀

[@adamrafferty]

Also check out the “5 reasons I stopped using a thump I’m” vid 😀

[@ceruleansongbird9339]

Can you do a Martin vs Maton shootout? Or a Zucali vs Maton shootout? Or both?

[@dr.davidmiller6682]

I somehow don’t think it was a fair comparison. It must’ve had to do with the amplification. Usually, Maton comes out more brash, bright, and sparkly. In this case, it came out with more bottom, end, and a fatter sound. It didn’t seem that the mic was picking up the full range of the Taylor’s overtones, etc.

[@simonpratley3301]

Great video Adam. I love both those model guitars and also the Maton 808C Nashville, which I have on order. You're right about the Taylor 314CE being louder. I almost bought one, but as I live in an apartment, I have ordered a Maton as I don't want noise complaints from my neighbours. I live in Sydney and both models and brands you reviewed are very popular here. Outside Australia,I think Maton's are very underrated and fairly unknown. Every Maton I've played is really fun to play, sounds great and makes me feel inspired. Though I must admit, every Taylor I've played is fun to play, sounds great and I feel inspired too... I think Bob Taylor and Andy Powers are amazing. However I saw an interview with Tommy Emmanuel recently where he was being interviewed via a simple webcam. He had his Maton with him... the sound he created, even unplugged via a webcam with no compression, no effects, convinced me to order the Maton Nashville (I realise this is not the model Tommy plays, but love the sunburst and cutaway). If a Maton is good enough for Tommy to build a multi decade carrer with, I think I will be happy playing a Maton at home on my sofa!!!!

[@richardpugh6279]

So how did the Nashville turn out? I’m thinking of buying one too.

[@raulands]

How would a Furch compare to Maton or Taylor ?

[@adamrafferty]

It depends which one. It really depends… I have a student that has the yellow series. Small OM body and it is an absolute dream. It’s really a great great great guitar. I also have a FURCH guitar that’s a grand auditorium size that well it’s a good guitar, it’s not my first choice. It’s got slightly more mids than the Taylor, but as far as the stage and the pick up and what I need to pump through PA system, the MATON is still the winter. FURCHR excellent excellent excellent guitars and I highly recommend them you just have to find the one that fits for you.

[@raulands]

@adamrafferty thanks for the reply!! I have the Furch Vintage 3 OM SR, I haven't played that many guitars so I don't really know how it compares to other brands/models. I'm very happy with it, balanced, has plenty of volumn, and now after a few months playing it, it seems to be warming up and changing tone very nicely . I've heard so much about Matons, how many great guitar players love them, mostly when plugged in. Maybe one day I'll get one too, I've never played one before.