Taylor Grand Pacific Series Guitars | Overview with Master Builder Andy Powers

Check out the rest of the Taylor Grand Pacific Series:
www.guitarcenter.com/Taylor-G...
The Taylor Grand Pacific Guitars are a new series of round-shoulder dreadnoughts powered by Taylor’s award-winning V-Class™ bracing. Warm, wide tones, longer sustain, stronger projection, and more accurate intonation are the sonic hallmarks of these new acoustics - bringing a new sound to the Taylor line.
Master builder Andy Powers shares the story of these guitars and introduces the new models. Born of a variety of influences from bluegrass, to home-building, to surfing, discover how Andy combines these inspirations to create the innovative and versatile Grand Pacific series.
Read more on the Grand Pacific line at www.guitarcenter.com/riffs/pr...
Grand Pacific Models
- 317/317e
- Builder’s Edition 717/717e (natural or Wild Honey Burst top)
- Builder’s Edition 517/517e (natural or Wild Honey Burst top)

[@overtonezaudio8500]

Not just a master builder but a pretty masterful guitar player too.

[@richardbenjamin775]

This is the best thing I’ve seen Taylor come out with ever! And I’ve been playing Martins for 40 years.

[@thealeons3179]

Just played one of these for the first time today and completely fell in love with it. Never thought I would buy a Taylor being that I am a huge Martin fan. But exactly what Andy said, I felt at home on this guitar. I love the way jazz chords sound and when you solo, this is when the character of this guitar really shines.

[@seanmarshallmusic]

As an avid J45 owner/player, this is the best sounding Taylor I've ever heard.

[@rafaelroca3759]

Think the same

[@SuperImmunologist]

Is this the new dread design for them?

[@johnhcross1]

@@SuperImmunologist - yes. They discontinued the x10 (dreadnought) and replaced it with the GP.

[@SuperImmunologist]

@@johnhcross1 watch the prices skyrocket on for sale sites

[@lotsofhairbutnomoney3705]

Absolute tonal perfection just from listening to this video. Gonna try and play one

[@bobwright663]

Sound amazing....you imagine what they sound like in 15 to 20 years....wow.

[@robertshamansky1912]

I really like the sound of these new Taylors! I will have to find one to play.

[@HenryPipes]

This is the first, and I mean first, Taylor that I am truly excited for! I can’t wait to get my hands on one of these!

[@billderinbaja3883]

Love the look Andy, hope to see you in Vancouver again in August, can't wait to play one of these.

[@tearitloosetearitloose4670]

All through the history of this planet of ours it's been one person at a time who makes things better.

[@robertcrites9250]

This made my day Andy ! Thanks

[@jdhaole7650]

Best guitars Taylor has ever made!

[@coolbritannia1979]

Played a 517 today, best acoustic I've ever played. Ever.

[@quiet216]

Check out Froggy Bottom

[@YanksandBritsProductions]

adam moore I would love an acoustic, may go for one of these. Seen some here online in England for around the £2000 tag .....makes me wonder of prices in the US. Problem is ya can’t travel to the US right now even if ya wanted to. I would imagine you could get a lot better deal on one in the US.

[@sooparticular]

@@quiet216 lmao overpriced ...nice guitar but for 7 grand i found it avg

[@johnhcross1]

@@sooparticular - $7 grand? You need to check a new shop. 717e Builders edition is $3199

[@Sabrinathefishinggirl]

Im in love with the plain one.

[@kmdmusic8540]

Liking this video so hard right now lol. Been slapping that like button so many times that my thumb went almost numb from liking it almost too much

[@StevieStirrup]

Wow okay Taylor ... got me interested now on this one! Oh that sound!

[@trevorgwelch7412]

I wish I could play half as good as this guy , but you can’t beat the feeling of the blues .

[@nworbydnar]

Just bought one. Love the sound. You are an amazing guitar maker.

[@elmaestroco]

Which one?

[@vegaa.1645]

Andy Powers​@@elmaestroco

[@johnnieboi]

I love the run you do at 2.20...and the guitars are sublime... 🥴

[@redwingjeb4423]

Those edges and neck are mint!

[@jay-rus4437]

Great....now I “need” a new guitar 😂 Love my 816ce AND my 200 series for my travel guitar

[@YanksandBritsProductions]

Awesome guitars .....I really would like a guitar, may got for one of these.

[@yves7778]

This guitars look some comfortable to play

[@maxwellfan55]

I like the plain top and would prefer a more trad contrasting sunburst, but I understand the old style vibe. However the sound wins, they sound incredible.

[@liamtahaney713]

You should make a 12 fret. That would be so amazing

[@Amadeus1066]

This is an excellent new model! I'm sure someday you'll offer this in a 12-string model?

[@LegsON]

If only it had open-gear tuners, MAN! Imagine the slotted headstock!😍

[@dougthealligator]

I love my 110, and Taylors in general, but I hate the look of the Taylor headstock. Any change would be welcome imo.

[@the_unkowngod_2328]

Ehh kinda ruins it for me open tuners lolll

[@LegsON]

@@the_unkowngod_2328 They weigh almost twice as less, resulting in better tone, lighter instrument, less neck dive.

[@the_unkowngod_2328]

@@LegsON not better tone lol makes no difference? Its a tuner not a wood

[@LegsON]

@@the_unkowngod_2328 If you don't know mechanics and what affects tone, do not speak so arrogant. It's basic phycis and Bryan Kimsey has proven lighter tuners open up the sound, many times.

[@pauljenkins2501]

Please, Lord, let me win the lottery this week! Please!

[@sooparticular]

why?

[@pauljenkins2501]

Because it will be the only way I could afford to get my hands on one of these gorgeous guitars.

[@sooparticular]

@@pauljenkins2501 lottery is for a 59 les paul or pre war martin...this is not expensive..I own 5 that cost much more...Street price will be around 2 kish

[@kurtinklern3262]

Good Luck ... then you can go buy a used Gibson that's better than this shit.

[@thomasknapp7236]

@@sooparticular its 3k

[@ia5662]

Wow, although Gibson-based, it's probably the best "sounding" Taylor I've heard. Still retains the traditional bright and crisp character of a Taylor, but with greater depth. Funnily enough, it sounds nothing like the Gibson it imitates. Those Gibsons have gobs of gloss finish on and sound was less resonant. It creates a sound, certainly, but I prefer the clarity and crispness of this Taylor version. Full-bodied tone...

[@yamnehroncero4238]

I want one.

[@aaronlarsen7447]

I like this model, because the tone is a little more traditional and woody, with a modern precision neck and Taylor's neck joint. It looks like a bigger version of the old budget, ladder braced Gibsons. I see V bracing as A bracing, flipped for a slightly different tonal flavor. Im not sure if one is actually better than the other. The price point looks fantastic, for tonal balance, stable tuning, good sound, body and neck comfort. Its a workhorse guitar, and versatile.

[@MrAndCad]

sometimes he sounds like Toby from the Office, looks like him too.

[@aaronkim1074]

MrAndCad lol! Hilarious.

[@ghostenthusiast7792]

I WAS JUST SCOUTING THE COMMENTS TO SEE IF SOMEONE ELSE NOTICED THAT

[@RRStout]

Notice the nut was black and not white. I don't recall you mentioning what material you used for the nut. What is the nut made out of?

[@calebbhawkins]

R. R. Stout website says graphite nut and micarta saddle.

[@jaystaxzvidds2387]

If and when im in the market for a high end acoustic im gunning for O.P. taylor ....until then ill play this 70s guild lol....

[@shanefields196]

Why does he look like a young Toby from the office?

[@richardblock2458]

Very nice looking and even better sounding.

[@ShredShed]

Sounds real guud

[@JEFFHUDSONSONGS]

I own 24 guitars which include 10 Martins some vintage, 2 Gibsons both vintage some Takamines and I’m waiting for a BRAND NEW GRAND PACIFIC. I love the look and what I hear on the videos. And I even loved the price of the 717e...I think a much better value than ANY NEW GIBSON I’VE EVER PLAYED. So all you haters can kiss my scalloped brace. There really is no need for this amount of hatred and condemnation on a stupid guitar video. Get a life...I agree it’s sad that most “professional” musicians can not afford a new Taylor..but that’s the world we live in...I CAN afford it...i really don’t care what you think....rock on....and cut your hair...and stop coloring it....

[@Bossanovawitcha]

517 is the best rig I have ever played

[@lucasandrelimaborges5896]

Incredible guitar, but it's very expensive! Here in Brazil it is almost impossible to have a Taylor guitar. :/

[@FelipeVergili]

Paguei 5 mil reais num Taylor mini que lá é violão de boteco

[@FelipeVergili]

@Luke here in Brazil, we usually pay 4 times the value of this guitar, after the conversion.

[@FelipeVergili]

@Luke unfortunately it will probally be R$19000(brl) for for the 317e, R$28990 for the 517e and R$30990 for the 717e. The shoppers here in Brazil usually converts the price multiplying it by 10. Because Acoustic Guitars are fragile and if imported legally it has a lot of taxes. What people usually do is buy these Guitars on travels and resell here for less. Just to exemplify a Guild m20 its R$17800 on a Brazilian store, 20x the minimum wage.

[@mjt11860]

so that's why u have a youtube account. so u can enjoy watching others play taylor guitars. at least that's why i do. lol.

[@nicolen.9642]

Lucas André Lima Borges Hi they're expensive in France too! 💸

[@billyrigoyourbeardedrealto1471]

I'm new to Taylor...whats the difference between the 517 & 717? Thanks

[@davidd4117]

517 is Mahogany 717 is East Indian Rosewood...surprisingly only $200 difference in price. $2,899 to $3,099 for 517e and 717e from the Taylor site.

[@sooparticular]

200 dollars more...517 to 717$

[@willhunter2588]

Sounds like the J-45 has some competition

[@4beer5beer]

Not a picker but a strummer.... Is this still great for that tone profile?

[@TboothePRODUCTIONS]

myles myrol yes! The dreadnaught is a flat picking guitar.

[@DessieTots]

I wish Taylor had also redesigned their headstock.

[@TylerBoone]

Love this guitar, feel free to check out my official video with Taylor Guitars on my channel with the 327 E model, cheers!

[@dougthealligator]

Taylor should really focus more on dreads as far as I’m concerned, the concerts and auditoriums are cool, but they make a damn fine dreadnought.

[@armasdejusticia9936]

I liked , I need this guitar for pray of Lord.

[@grittynitty]

meh . Just got an 814ce...I think this small of difference in sound can be achieved just by playing style alone.

[@macdaddyblues1]

Do we have to sound like lunatics when describing how a guitar sounds/plays? He didn't really have to say a damn thing, these guitars sound great!!!

[@michaelutley7661]

One helluva guitar & one helluva of a salesman. Take my money.

[@mnsoak4]

What is Toby doing here? NNOOOOOOOO!!! GODD PLEASE NOOOOOOOO!!!

[@scenepointjudge]

GO BACK TO THE ANNEX

[@manatigres]

clicked on this video to comment the same thing!

[@soundknight]

Looks like a gibbo design sound too

[@3_to_the_dome501]

never use brand new strings to test a guitar sound. at least a month old string. the mature sound of the string will elevates the guitar sound quality. just my opinion

[@woodlakesound]

I can’t tell what an instrument is capable of unless you explore the full dynamic range over the whole neck. This is just easy playing over the sweet spot areas.

[@mtoscano343]

Couldn’t tell a difference from one to another except for the 300 series....it sounded thin...

[@natelloyd6312]

Is it possible that Martin might sue Taylor for the GP series? Taylor has the grand pacific, but Martin has the grand performance!

[@kensettle3184]

I can't help but wonder what these would sound like with a bone nut and saddle. I am not really comfortable with Tusq and graphite.

[@rickraub5448]

This guy will be the new CEO when Bob retires...you watch.😎

[@scottmoreau3478]

Sounds like a Taylor to me. Honestly, I felt that the 800 series that was overhauled around 2014 (maybe earlier) was the closest thing to a more vintage tone. The v bracing destroyed that tone and this just sounds like every other Taylor.

[@maraviyoso8473]

Did you expect it to NOT sound like a Taylor?

[@scottmoreau3478]

@@maraviyoso8473 To clarify, there will always be a Taylor voice but they always market these new models or forms of bracing as being something completely new or vintage. Check out the videos of this model, Andy clearly pushes how it's a new tone. To me it sounds like any other Taylor.. just my opinion.

[@Goodphish]

my big baby taylor probably still has the same tone with some good string

[@JeremyCrookWrites]

No

[@gibby6904]

What most people are looking for in a slope shoulder guitar is that Gibson "thump"....

[@johngalt6838]

Which is why you get a Gibson.

[@gibby6904]

@@johngalt6838 the beautiful j35 in my profile pic is mine

[@johngalt6838]

@@gibby6904 Have a j45.....plus Martins, larrivee....love them all for different work.

[@bobaldo2339]

Martin guitars made those old records. If Taylor can make guitars that sound like Martins, I say great!

[@trevorgwelch7412]

Bob Aldo Taylor are Better Then Martins Any Day

[@mojobrando]

Hes actually talking about recordings with old gibsons.

[@toddbeeman5933]

The whole point of different brands, construction, materials, etc, is to provide an array of options for guitarists. Each brand and model has a distinctive sound, playability, and reputation for the consumer's/musician's benefit. In some cases, the differences between each model and its features are huge. If you don't like the tone of a Taylor because you want it to sound more like a Martin, you can simply focus on narrowing your search within the Martin line. Of course, most six-string acoustics will all share similar features since they're categorized as a "6-string acoustic guitar," so it's the individual details that differentiate its exact specification. When comparing this new product to a vague Martin sound, there's a significant amount of the build/construction process that would need to be completely re-engineered in order to get the outcome you want. Such as; new bracing, neck attachment, bridge, glues, body dimensions, etc. It would be excessive and pointless, especially when someone with your tonal desires could simply purchase a Martin.

[@maxwellfan55]

@@toddbeeman5933 Well said. Variety is the Spice of Life!

[@gibby6904]

It is going for the old Gibson J45 sound....the Gibson "thump"....

[@peacockbass1966]

Round shoulder dreadnought just like Gibson.

[@nicholastotoro7721]

It’s a slope shoulder Dread that still sounds thin and bright like a Taylor.

[@kurtinklern3262]

Its an EQd mid-life-crisis made to sound pretty for a commercial.

[@robbyporter]

I don’t know about the thin and bright. I played one today (300 series) and this thing is very complete. The low tones ring out way better than I typically associate with Taylor. The thin and bright is still there, it just seems to be more versatile if that makes sense? I am in the market for a bigger jumbo body and almost bought this instead. Plays bigger than it is for me, which is as much of a compliment as I can give to an acoustic.

[@richardgreen9393]

kurt inklern wow you’re trying to start shit everywhere

[@anc2242]

If you want to sound “ better “ study and practice. Don’t become a victim of marketing.

[@gerrardhart6040]

This 👆🏼

[@rudihenryjan1927]

I agree to your first statement. But saying that different guitars, don't offer a completely different sound or playing style is narrow minded. There's a reason why people spend thousands of £s or $s on different guitars. My collection of guitars isn't worth a lot, but each of my guitars are played for different occasions and moods. I'm not trying to offend you. Just school you. If you don't get it now, you will in the future. If you play enough, that is.

[@kurtinklern3262]

I'll never buy one of these over-priced-mid-life-crisis guitars. But to think that there doesn't exist a guitar that sounds better than the one you own is horse shit.

[@jay-rus4437]

kurt inklern ....overpriced? Ive owned my 816 for 7 years now and it is by far my favorite ever. Its an amazing instrument.

[@kurtinklern3262]

​@@jay-rus4437 There's a fool on every corner.

[@promoted738]

90's Taylors were pretty good guitars. Found one the other day at a music store and was reminded at the difference in build quality. One piece dovetailed neck - no fret issues - and minus the inferior pickup system they insint on plaguing their current guitars with. Also priced so an actual musician can afford one. Well done, Taylor - of the 90's.

[@gibby6904]

I agree.....I own a 1997 414 and it is way more guitar than the ones they are building today......these Pacifics look interesting ...

[@oldmanofcotati]

If Taylor keeps at it, some day they will build a real American guitar.

[@r.n.sangma5154]

Only problem in this guitar is it's affordability... I'll have to sell my kidneys for it

[@MisterTwister55]

if elton john played guitar instead of piano...

[@dakshsoni]

Another guitar which I can't afford.

[@lesjohns4359]

Bunch of BS marketing talk. This does sound more traditional than most Taylor’s. Would have to play/hear in person to be sure.

[@maxwellfan55]

LJ. I disagree, the proof is in the sound, ultimately. Taylor are being really creative and experimental, the other big guys are taking heed, have you noticed? It's an exciting time for guitar players.

[@mragunathan1627]

Andy Powers really needs to dial it down on the whole "im the second coming of guitar design" shtick because he's really starting to sound like Apple; smug, pretentious and very off putting.

[@lesjohns4359]

I have noticed that every Taylor I have played is very bright and I don’t like the tone at all. They are made very well. I will take a Martin thank you.

[@maxwellfan55]

@@mragunathan1627 Fair point, but of course Andy Powers never actually said that, in fact he has said his tastes are rooted in traditional guitars. To give him his due, there is no doubt whatsoever he is a) a great musician, so no bullshitter there, b) a proven guitar builder and c) he is pushing the boundaries of what a guitar can deliver in terms of sound and design, trying to improve on it all the time. Now you can either go with that or be stuck with the same old stuff "re-imagined", whatever that means, however great the these well known guitars are. Personally I like the way Taylor inform and talk to their customers, distributing their newsletters, explaining what they are trying to do and how, today's a great time to be playing guitar. If you want to slight smugness look at the old Gibson publicity, "Only a Gibby is Good Enough", never did that company any harm.

[@maxwellfan55]

@@lesjohns4359 I've also heard guitarists say Martins sound dark, so it's down to what a player is looking for.

[@xaviersoriano2382]

In short, Taylor wanted to copy Gibson.

[@maxwellfan55]

X. Like Gibson wanted to copy Martin way back and so on. What's the problem, they all sound different, play great.

[@maraviyoso8473]

Gibson copied Martin. Martin copied Taylor. That's life.

[@xaviersoriano2382]

Maravi Yoso Martin came first then Gibson then Taylor... not the other way around stupid.

[@rickcar94]

In short, everyone wants to copy Martin ;)

[@DelScully]

@@maraviyoso8473 are you dumb? "martin copied taylor"... That must be a joke!

[@coolbeans4399]

Can't believe the ungodly prices Taylor put on trees and metal

[@maraviyoso8473]

Unlike a Martin or a Gibson, right?

[@DontStopTheWeekend]

Sounds like any other acoustic guitar....😒🤭

[@tsbs7s]

Not until you play it yourself! That's when you're gonna hear the difference!

[@DontStopTheWeekend]

@@tsbs7s I'm as poor as dirt weed😢...if you buy me one? I'll play it and post it🤙

[@maraviyoso8473]

Mmmm, if you think an Esteban sounds like a Taylor. . .

[@gslide06]

Sounds expensive, but it is expensive. Definitely other acoustics you can buy for a bit less with very comparable tone.

[@ARTUROSIERRALOPEZ]

Let s copy

[@soundknight]

All these design elements were already invented by classical luthiers in the 1800s, don’t call it your own “we call it…” that’s disingenuous.

[@paddyc8200]

If you want a guitar to sound like your bluegrass records go buy a Martin 😋

[@ARTUROSIERRALOPEZ]

Nograss

[@MusicMike939]

Oops 1899 is not entry level. It is rich persons level. If you can afford to buy it you probably won't play it.

[@dawsontummins3909]

Idiot

[@MrDunosan]

BS, you EQ’d this taylor to not capture the noise and probably took out the zinggy taylor highs...BS..

[@BonafideToolJunkie]

Who cares? For $800 - $1400 you can buy guitars with AA Adirondack spruce top.

[@richardlucascronley5128]

Adirondack doesn't mean better tone. Some people prefer standard spruce over red spruce. Especially with certain back and sides woods

[@MrDunosan]

taylor does not sound like this in reality, i bet they eq’d the sound. the v class bracing was a marketing and start the downfall of taylors.