Taylor American Dream Series vs. 300 Series | Affordable, All-Solid, American Made Guitars

[@JeffDaytonMusic]

I just ordered an AD17e Blacktop that I'm taking on my European tour in June and at the end, I'm going to find a deserving Ukranian refugee who lost their guitar(s) back home - and I'm going to give them the guitar as my gift of hope and love from Nashville. Let me know if you know of someone or just send them to my show in Prague June 24th so I can meet them. I'm stoked to be doing some good on this tour. Aloha!

[@hapshan]

I'd be really happy with AD17. Or a 327... Or a AD27... 317 too..

[@timgoodwintv]

I have an AD17e such a beautiful guitar sounds amazing and the build quality is top notch.

[@jimmyz5831]

Very good sound with my headphones on. I felt the AD17 and 317 were almost identical. Both fuller and brighter than the 327. AD27 was in between the two, closer to the 327. I ordered the AD17 Black while I was listening ; )

[@Dakota.Covers]

I am considering the black AD17. Did you get it yet?

[@Machado760]

I bought the blacktop a month ago and I friggin' LOVE it! It is my first Taylor, and I'm in love.

[@Ralph-ny1ey]

Im getting ready to pull the trigger on an ad17 possibly tommorrow. Was looking at some higher end eastmens but might have to spend a little more and go with the taylor.

[@Guitargeek316]

Tried all of these, I found an AD27E that sounded amazing, each guitar has its own little bit of variance too. When I tested the guitar at GC close to my house the AD27E and 327E were pretty close, and I liked the deeper bass tone from the AD27E. When I got the wife to sign off on the purchase, we went to the closest one with the guitar in stock that day in Pasadena, and the AD27E there was amazing, I am so glad I waited it was on-par with the 517e that they also had, which I didn't expect since the 517 is spruce top. The explanation about the variation of the woods a little bit for the AD series explained this for me, also the guitars ship with light gauge, and the 300+ have medium gauge strings which adds to that variation when heard. I would hands down buy the AD series, they, in my opinion, are their own league, I don't expect Taylor to make them past 2021, as it's going to take away sales from the 300 and 500 series, but to be honest I would just wait to find a 300 or 500 used anyway, which would be about the price point of the AD.

[@ThatVibrato]

I agree. I think the AD27E sounds so good with its more resonate bass tones.

[@daniellevalade3752]

Chris, you are an angel for us all. Of all folks on the internet talking about guitar, YOU rock them all sir!! Thank you for taking the time to do those videos, they are SO useful for us to learn on various topics, and its simply great. Keep it up man. I wish I would live in Texas just so I can go shake your hand.... yes I would even in these Covid times. Thats how much Im grateful to you Chris. Thanks again!

[@ToshStuart]

I preferred the 300 series guitars in the demo and thought the 327 sounded the best. Thanks for the demo.

[@markfisher509]

You guys have taught me alot about guitars the last several months. One of these days Ill have that gibson hummingbird or j45. Those Taylor's are good though the ad17 seems louder. ✌️

[@johnlord1399]

Another excellent ‘episode’! I enjoyed the comparison! It was the next best thing to sitting down and playing them all myself. If the AD series had been more available in July I might have saved myself some money... I have to say that AD-27 seems like it’s made to play the blues! Well done, guys!

[@evad6220]

Thank you Chris, both the AD17e And 317e are on my list to try. I personally don't like cutaways, so it was good to see this comparison.

[@rustyvanbrocklin7560]

They all sounded great. For some reason the liked the AD17 ovankol. The lows were very clear and boom in a good way. Good job

[@donaldholman9070]

I want them all! Thanks for the great video.

[@GPLP335]

Well done guys, another really great informative video. As stated, you really can't go wrong with any of these models. It all comes down to personal preference and available funds.

[@dietmarschuller3963]

Just from what I can hear in this video, I prefer AD17 over the 317, but the 327 over the AD27. If I had to pick one, it would be the 327, it looks and sounds stunning.

[@MrHeliosoul]

I love my 317e so much! Great comparison!! Definitely like the dynamic with Cooper around.

[@frankie_CALB]

I just ordered a 317 based on your videos boys! But, it was a hard decision because I also really liked the AD27, a little darker and not so much a “Taylor” sound if ya know what I mean. For the $$$ I had to go with the 317 because it comes with that really nice case.

[@seanhallahan14]

You guys ROCK!!!! Thank you.

[@arkadyromanov7803]

I played a 324 and an ad27 back to back not that long ago because I wanted a mahogany top guitar. This demo might show that they sound similar and they do, but actually get one of each in your hands and you can very much feel the difference. For me the 324 was an easy choice because it just felt so much nicer in my hands, even with the extra cost. Some of that might have been due to the different finishes on the neck. The 324 had a proper satin smooth finish while the ad felt much more rough. The AD I saw also looked like it hadn't had the finish applied evenly near the neck joint. What I thought initially was a cast shadow was actually a stripe parallel to the neck join where some of the finish hadn't been applied as much, maybe missed a coat? I don't know if all AD are like that, but it definitely seems like the attention to detail wasn't quite there like with the 324. I suppose what I'm saying is don't feel bad if you bought a 3 series and are now thinking the AD is the one to have bought. The 3 series costs more, but you definitely get more. I also felt that the 324 just had a richer tone to the ad27 I played. It may have just been the 2 examples I played, but the 324 sounded a little better to my ear.

[@angelg8445]

I have a 322ce 12-fret that is high quality. I do think that they are higher quality also I love the neck. AD is a great value but the eucalyptus wood may not hold up like the ebony...but I’m not so sure, and I do wonder if the lack of binding would affect the structural integ

[@arkadyromanov7803]

@@angelg8445 I highly doubt it. Taylor saved money on the woods used and final fit and finish, sure, but I have no reason to believe they're made any less robust than any of their other offerings. People accept different levels of finish but nobody buys a guitar that's known for breaking, and Taylor isn't that foolish. Edit: also eucalyptus wood contains natural oils that resist decay and is used in outdoor furniture in Australia. I doubt it would be a problem as a fretboard.

[@kdrake777]

Your comparisons are the best. I think the Academy 12 sounds as good as the new GT and costs 1/3 the price. Would make a good video!

[@charlesbranch4120]

Andy Powers said in his recent episode with Taylor Guitars Primetime, to not be afraid to experiment with different picks and strings. I have a number of brands of 12-23, 11-52, and 11-50 string sets to try out as I learn... and wood picks of various species.

[@dwightlowes]

Beautiful!!...Great rundown!! Chris you do the best out of anyone I’ve herd, watched and paid attention to....!! Outstanding

[@charlesbranch4120]

I agree that a GT and Academy 12 comparison would be worthwhile, since the Grand Theater is slightly larger than the Grand Concert Academy 12, with similar appointments. Taking the advice of Andy Powers' recent episode with Taylor Guitars Primetime, I have several sets in different brands of 12-53 strings, and 11-52 and 11-50 to try on the Academy 12 and a Breedlove Concert body, besides several different wood picks.

[@SingSurfStrum]

Great advice again. Thank you 🙏 AD27 ordered wooooo hooooo !

[@conradhalling3984]

Great review! Taylor's website says Sitka spruce is used for the tops of the AD17 and AD17e.

[@texhaines9957]

You can smell eucalyptus without putting it in a humid environment.

[@slpc30]

I just love these comparison videos thank you

[@johnmaklary831]

Hi Chris, the AD17 vs 317 tone surprised me. The 317 sapele had a brighter tone to my ears vs the AD17 with its Ovankol. I was expecting the opposite.

[@robbynaumann439]

Very interesting guitars. I think this is the only Taylor shape I really don’t care for at all. There’s something about how all the strings ring together that just doesn’t sit well with me, and even more so when comparing the sound to the classic monster dreads (D18,28,35, J45 etc). Good sounding guitar in it’s own way, but it just doesn’t have THE dreadnought sound to me. Just my opinion, Taylor makes fantastic guitars. I just don’t want this to sound like a fanboy statement or something. Great demo as usual.

[@captaindip6970]

I hear what your saying. I don't think they sound that different from a dreadnought.

[@bubbajeph]

I am happy learning on my Academy 12e

[@MelodyMaker]

Stay inspired. Where will you be in a year learning just one new thing per day.

[@elmaestroco]

After a very complex and intense review😅, my ranking would be 4. 317e | 3. AD17e | 2. AD27e | ⭐1. 327e.

[@timnewman1172]

Sorry, but I prefer to sound of both the AD models over the 300 series. They seem to be warmer, with maybe a bit more bottom end. Guess I'm weird...

[@jdstan9650]

As the owner of a 317e, I have been waiting for this one. Got to admit, I was not very pleased with Taylor when the AD17 came out. Lowering the cost threshold on solid wood American made Taylor's does not help the value of the 300 series. Even though, I know the pandemic was the catalyst. Thankfully, I love my 317 and think the appointments of the 300 series (binding, finish, inlays, ebony, & killer case) are more than enough to justify the cost difference.

[@dougrobinson8602]

The 317 is a much classier looking guitar. I wouldn't have buyer's remorse over it. The fret inlays alone set it way above the AD. Enjoy your guitar!

[@carlosdangerio4755]

Agree with Doug on top of that the 3 series IMO sounds little more full (they both sound great) but I do like the inlays ,headstock and finish better on the 3 and they aren't you aren't saving THAT much years from now when ebony is not used (Martin seems to already be going away for richlite) you will have a piece of art as well as a great guitar

[@scottf2199]

Nice comparison - nobody does mahogany tops like Taylor

[@ftlaud911]

Play both and pick which one you like more. Personally would lean towards 3 series for resale value going in, but leave with whichever one I liked more. All Taylors are amazing instruments. Can't go wrong with any of them.

[@johnwashburn3793]

I have to ask, why do we consider selling a guitar before we buy it? I do as well, but I usually do my homework prior and I have given a couple away to family or friends but the only one I have sold I regret (even though I made a profit)

[@Taylor314ce]

ok...late to the game on this video....but I love Chris Mckee...I mean my family watches these videos because his passion for Taylors is unprecedented. We are a Taylor Family. 314ce and Mahogany GS Mini. I just wanted to say that when you...Chris...played the 317e...that was the best that your guitar playing ever sounded....better than any of the guitars....you should go find that guitar from the video and buy it...that was your Holy Grail Taylor. thats all.

[@bohsonca]

I'm not a Taylor or a mahogany top guy, or so I thought. The AD27 proved me wrong on both counts. For what I play, this guitar is just perfect and I think I found a good replacement for my Faith Mars Classic Burst 45mm (it's a mouthful, I know) after having bridge troubles for the second time in 3 years - I'll fix it and sell it, I don't trust that guitar anymore. The tone of the AD27 is warm, without being muddy, the mid-range is a little less pronounced compared to the all-mahogany 327 which results in just a smidge more clarity/zing. The bass response seems best on the AD17 (but, in general, as for spruce tops, I would prefer the 317 for better balance and warmer tone), however... only when played with a pick. It gets somewhat boomy and fuzzy when fingerpicked, which is where the AD27's bass really shines. I honestly am in love. Tight, responsive, present but not overwhelming bass, rounded but clear highs, and a slew of tasty mids to keep this whole package together and sounding warm and comforting. And the harmonics - just the perfect amount of audible overtones without disturbing the very sweet and pronounced fundamental. A real head-scratcher... I now like the less aggressive, compressed sound of a mahogany top. I listened to maybe every video which featured this guitar (AD27), put on some good headphones and I'm sure this is as close to the sound I want for myself as can be within a reasonable budget. I'm glad I can still get the AD27e in 2023 and with a nice burst, too. The AD17e Blacktop (while just as pretty as before) now features walnut back and sides - I haven't listened to it, but the AD27 seems so perfect, I'll pass on the AD17 without much regret. Thanks for the videos. Now, I'm going to place my order, bye! :)

[@Mauitaoist]

You didn't mention nut width I assume they're both the same.. I've owned high-end Taylor Guitars and I actually think I could hear the difference of the 300 series is sounding a little clearer or more robust little overall full over the AD series so I have to go with the 300 series

[@leesamuelson]

yes nut width the same. in the 27 series of both they both have same wood combo. I thought the AD27 sounded a little louder and the 327 more mellow as it would with a gloss top vs thinner satin. to truly hear the difference they should both have the same strings. the 300 series uses Elixir Nanoweb Phos/brnz vs the AD using D" Addario uncoated phos/bronz that alone can make tone quite different also.

[@texhaines9957]

Interesting with Lutz spruce as it's supposed to sound like red spruce (Adirondack Spruce).

[@roberthealy1814]

Can you do some more cutaway version Taylors. I like the American Dream Guitars, sound and looks.

[@texhaines9957]

I've played both an AD17 and 317. I was told by a Taylor rep that I probably had an AD17 with a neck that needed attention. I thought the 317 played easier. Sound wise, I liked the 327e then the AD27E. Wonder how the 327 sounds compared to a Martin 000-28sm?

[@jlr3636]

I have a Taylor DN3, made in 2007. Perfect condition, seldom played, still has the plastic film on the case emblem. Was wondering how this guitar compares to the 300 series today. Gloss spruce top, satin sepele sides/back, ebony.

[@akiranakano9489]

Can anybody tell me,name of a tune, it starts from 16:02? This beautiful melody keeps playing in my head.

[@mjohndenver]

I'll take the AD17e black ⚫! Or the Yamaha red label 5 series with the pick up system.

[@nmerenfeld1]

Great video! Please maybe consider doing a 12 string comparison video. In the market for one to go along with my most recent taylor 714 ce.

[@michaelsweeney2763]

I guess I'm one of those that doesn't want a pickup in my guitars! ...the way I see it is, it's a slippery slope that I've been down before...years ago, I had the 8 track digital recorder, drum machine, microphones, electric guitars, bass guitars AND acoustic guitars! ...and that darn pickup in one of my first guitars lead to all of that! ...you know, ohh, I need an Amp now! ...and a microphone! ...and on and on...thus, the slippery slope! I bought an HD-28, thinking, alll I need is 1 premium acoustic guitar! Well, that didn't work out, but I now have 5 without pickups...and did hope for a nicer Taylor than my GS Mini, say US built all solid wood, without any electronics...to avoid the previously mentioned, "Slippery Slope!" I'm happy to see these models without the electronics, and am currently looking at which one to buy! GREAT VIDEOS by the way!

[@charlynbernal1012]

Isn't that Snuffy's lick from the 30's Something theme?

[@dwightlowes]

Your intro on a 327e is the most different because of the tone woods unbelievable. It doesn’t sound anything like any other guitar..that’s just my ear maybe? but it blew my mind!

[@PharmDRx]

Im biased because I own a 324ce... but that Tasmanian blackwood/hog combo is the best sounding guitar Ive ever played. It will be in my family for a long time.

[@reubenpasquini3841]

I noticed that the Grand Pacific (ADX7, 3X7, ...) and Grand Auditorium (2X4, 3X4, ...) have the same body dimensions (20 x 16 x 4 5/8"), but different curves, and the GP comes with medium gauge strings and the GA comes with light strings. If I setup an AD17 with light strings, then do I effectively have a discounted GA with a lighter touch than the GP? Put another way - if I put light strings on a GP do I get a guitar that behaves like a GA? I also sort of feel like the ADX7 is to the 3X7 or 3X4 as the GT is to the 3X2 (Grand Concert) on paper. How does the GT compare to the Grand Concert? Does that C-class bracing stuff actually give the GT a bigger sound compared to the GC at the cost of some intonation? Thanks for the great videos!

[@Noima5167]

Hi. Anybody could explain if its normal for a brand new AD17e to have a gap at the bottom of the neck and body joint please. Thank you.

[@cliffordrapanut9549]

Hello, what type of strings is the best for the AD27e? Thank you

[@iconoclast2.079]

AD17 with the inferior spruce top is a big compromise ....it’s certainly not rich in tonal aesthetics as the 317e with Sitka Spruce.... the eucalyptus isn’t bad BUT Iit’s denser than ebony so it diminishes tone slightly.

[@leesamuelson]

where do you get inferior from?? they are both Sitka. they said there is maybe a possibility that some AD come with Lutz which is said to sound closer to Adirondack which is considered superior top wood. the 300 series to me sounded more mellow less lively which it would with gloss top. plus the strings are very different between the 2 models.

[@markreams3192]

Why 13-56 strings on the American dream series?

[@martinbrazier690]

Finally!!!

[@simonpratley3301]

Hey Chris please please please teach us how to play that beautiful melody at the 16.00 mintue point of the video. You said a while ago that Bob Taylor inspired this and you may teach us one day. I have watched you play this on so many videos and have tried to play it, but can't get it the same as you. This melody is stuck in my head everyday and I'm desperate to play it. Please teach us!!!!

[@jtelevenoyd1571]

I'd love to know whether there might ever be anything like the AD series in a Grand Auditorium, or better yet Grand Concert, size.

[@AlamoMusic]

See the new Taylor GT.

[@jtelevenoyd1571]

@@AlamoMusic: I will. Thanks!

[@IndigoJo]

Shouldn't the AD17 be compared to a 400 series Taylor (Ovangkol back and sides) rather than a spruce/sapele 300? I wonder why there's no 417.

[@texhaines9957]

There is a Builders Edition 417e

[@wesleywang5072]

What is the song he is playing at 16:05?

[@thegreenman555]

I want to change my name to Cooper Greenberg. Cool guy. Super cool name! 🥰😂

[@anggalazuardian3729]

PLEASE COMPARE AND REVIEW THE PRS PARLOR P20 & P20E!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I CAN'T WAIT ANYMORE ARRRGRGRGRGRGRGHHHRHHHHHHHHH

[@justiceseeker2557]

327e and AD27e are exactly the same guitars, with the same sound. The difference is the price and the looking of both guitars.

[@edwardpetersen4309]

Are the nut widths the same?

[@SuperEdge67]

Nah, Cooper has a deeper voice so his nut width would be bigger.

[@tobyben6431]

got an AD17 3 years ago and it is aging very well. One of my most played guitars. And it seems I was lucky getting one of the natural top AD17 models they seem to have become quite scarce. And yes I got one without the taylor pickup system (not a fan sry). So for anyone still wondering in 2024: If you are looking for a great sounding and wonderful looking taylor that isn't overly blingy and shiny look no further, worth every dollar I spent. You gotta have to spend quite a few dollars more to get one in 2024 tho🥲

[@ReNNEbab]

327 💯💯💯💯

[@jackfo5796]

Thanks for a great video! You didn't mention that the AD's have light gauge strings, and the 300's have medium gauge strings. Is there an ease of playability difference between the series?

[@mickaelroyet48]

mon ad est venu avec des cordes 13/56 !

[@ftoftheX]

In the 300 series sounds more woody with warmer tones.

[@heathwilliams4436]

To my ear the 300 series guitars blew the ADs away.

[@jdstan9650]

Working in manufacturing...I guarantee you that eucalyptus costs Taylor less than ebony. It may be a good substitute, but there would be no reason to change otherwise.

[@LexingtonDaniel]

The supply of ebony has a limit. They haven't hit it yet, but sales of acoustic instruments has spiked... They see what's coming. Plus CITES has their eye on ebony as well. The difference in price (especially after treatment) is mostly down to the transportation cost of ebony from Africa vs. locally sourced eucalyptus (since Taylor owns the ebony plantation over there). They know they're going to have to make a change at some point. Do they do it with new introductions now or wait until they're forced to do it across the board? Also, when people tried it, some preferred eucalyptus to ebony. Sure cost played a part, but no manufacturer can last who doesn't take into account supply, market forces, etc..

[@jdstan9650]

@@LexingtonDaniel Oh so now people prefer eucalyptus to ebony? Really? Is that why Taylor invested so heavily in Crelicam Cameroon? Just keep paying way too much for your mass produced Taylors...it's your choice. They make good guitars...just overpriced when you objectively compare them to other options. What Taylor is really good at is...marketing. The AD and GT series are just a concession to get into the $1,100-$1,600 all solid wood guitar market. Taylor was getting beat by the competition in this segment. Did you notice their are still no solid wood GA options at this price range?...just overpriced laminates.

[@SuperEdge67]

Koalas are not happy they’re using it.

[@Taylor314ce]

i just watched the video again....i am right

[@yakinkate7946]

Wouldn’t it also be just as likely you would get a top that is mared with cut blemishes or other anomalies. 🙃

[@sedrickalcantara9588]

What do you mean? Taylor Quality Control doesn’t let that kind of thing happen, it’s rare they don’t catch something before it gets to distributers

[@user-ov4dw3yr5d]

American Dream or GS Mini Koa Guys?

[@captaindip6970]

American Dream. But it depends if you find a gs mini koa that sounds and plays good then get that,

[@SuperEdge67]

@@captaindip6970 I have a GSmini Koa. The American dream is all solid , standard scale and 1.75 nut width, and more expensive. Very different guitar. To be honest I feel a little cramped playing my GS mini.

[@captaindip6970]

@@SuperEdge67 I agree. I would say i recommend people to get a decent martin over a taylor. or a taylor 8 series that sounds good. I haven't enjoyed taylors as much as martins to be honest

[@garyheaton4791]

I just saw a 317 on line new for only $250 more than the one on here as the budget model. And, the 317 had a $200 taylor case with it standard. So I REALLY do not see a value at all in this new model. It does not look as good, sound as good, or have a case. I just can not see or hear how that guitar is worth that much money. I know your a Taylor boy and all..but still if your honest I bet you can't either!! They don't sound bad, I just think it's left over wood they are slapping together to take advantage of the covid-19 shortage. They MAY have stepped on their dick with this one bro. Oh..how come you didn't have Cooper play these instead of you? If he's there, may as well use the best..right? Thanks for the video, it answered a LOT of questions for me.😁✌

[@sedrickalcantara9588]

Chris McKee is no taylor boy, he’s a Taylor Man 💪😤

[@carlosdangerio4755]

I agree completey the 3 isn't much more and get a LOT more for the $2-300

[@rexroman5211]

Good information, but poor scripting makes it much longer than needed

[@anthonyvalentino9483]

These Vs videos are annoying and nonsense its been done by hundreds of KZbinrs...all KZbinrs do is repeat the same thing over and over again

[@dougmarshall5324]

Chris we know you are sleeping with Andy Powers, that would explain all the details you have on Taylor guitars however for the years I've endured your playing you honestly never open up about the action is a mile from the fretboard..... when you cuddle up to Andy tonight can you reccomend sending his passion out to acoustic players set up and not spending huge amounts of money to fix a guitar they already spent big bucks on ?

[@ElizabethTokarieva]

what is the micro? is it rode k2?

[@nikitashevelov1167]

what is the micro? is it rode k2?