
( Brand: Taylor ), ( Model: 815C WITH ACTIVE FISHMAN NATURAL I ELECTRONICS ), ( Model Year: 1996 ), ( Body Type: Jumbo ), ( String Configuration: 6 String ), ( Body Material: Rosewood Back Sides ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: United States )
Introducing the Taylor 815c Grand Symphony Acoustic-Electric Guitar, crafted by Taylor Guitars in 1996, featuring the popular Fishman preamp system and boasting a Natural finish. This instrument is a fine example of Taylor's unwavering commitment to superior craftsmanship, tonal brilliance, and innovative technology.
The body of this guitar is constructed from a beautifully grained Sitka spruce top set atop layers of laminated Indian rosewood. The multi-lam rosewood back and sides not only contribute to the guitar's captivating appearance, but also its powerful, resonant sound. The Grand Symphony body shape offers a balanced midrange and strong low end tones, making it well-suited for various playing styles.
Equipped with the popular Fishman Aura-TV pickup system, the Taylor 815c is well-prepared for live or studio performance. This system delivers a rich, clear, and nuanced representation of the guitar's natural sound. The onboard preamp also offers a range of useful features, including a built-in tuner, volume and tone controls, and a phase switch to eliminate feedback.
The neck of the 815c measures 24-3/4 inches in scale length and is crafted from Taylor's esteemed Tropical Mahogany. It is topped with a 1-11/16 inch nut width, providing a comfortable playing surface for most hand sizes. The layout of the 20-fret ebony fingerboard includes crystal clear pearloid X-bead inlays and smooth yet tacky satin finish, which makes the frets easily accessible and ensures a exceptionally playing experience.
Additional noteworthy features on the 815c include the Venetian cutaway, Taylor's proprietary compensated saddle, and the high-quality Schaller machine heads that ensure tuning stability and smooth gear action. With the carefully crafted bracing pattern, Taylor has painstakingly created an acoustic-electric guitar that delivers excellent playability, tone, and sound projection.
In summary, the Taylor 815c Grand Symphony Acoustic-Electric Guitar, with its stunning Natural finish and Fishman Aura-TV pickup system, is a testament to Taylor's mastery of craftsmanship, tonal depth, and innovation. Whether you are a performing artist or an avid hobbyist, this guitar guarantees to captivate you with its resonant voice, superb playability, and versatile capabilities.
1. _Pros of Buying a Taylor 815c with Fishman 1996 Natural Pickup System:_
a) High-quality construction and craftsmanship: Taylor guitars are renowned for their excellent build quality, and the 815c is no exception. Its solid Sitka spruce top and layered walnut back and sides ensure long-lasting durability and a rich, resonant sound.
b) Versatile tone: The 815c provides a balance between traditional acoustic tone and modern playability. Its Grand Symphony body shape provides a full-bodied sound, which mates well with the Fishman 1996 Natural pickup system to deliver a clear, balanced tone when amplified without compromising the acoustic sound.
c) Fishman 1996 Natural pickup system: This pickup system offers natural, uncolored sound due to the use of under-saddle and soundhole sensors, providing a more authentic representation of the guitar's tone when plugged in.
d) Playability: The Taylor 815c has a Venetian cutaway and a 14-fret neck joint, which gives players easy access to higher frets, making it suitable for various playing styles.
2. _Cons of Buying a Taylor 815c with Fishman 1996 Natural Pickup System:_
a) Price: Taylor guitars can be an investment, and the 815c, especially with the Fishman 1996 Natural pickup system, is no exception. Its premium price tag may not be suitable for everyone's budget.
b) Size and weight: With its larger body and solid woods construction, the Taylor 815c is heavier than some other acoustic guitars. This can be a potential disadvantage for those who require a lightweight instrument or are planning for extensive travel.
Conclusion: In summary, the Taylor 815c with Fishman 1996 Natural pickup system offers a premium acoustic guitar experience with excellent craftsmanship, versatile tone, and a high-quality pickup system. However, its premium price and additional weight may be a limitation for some. If you're in the market for a high-end acoustic guitar with plugged-in capability and a natural, unamplified tone, the Taylor 815c with Fishman 1996 Natural pickup system could be an excellent choice.
Recommendation: Consider the Taylor 815c with Fishman 1996 Natural pickup system if you value the precise representation of your acoustic guitar's tone when plugging in, are not concerned about the higher price point, and require a larger body style with easy access to upper frets. If budget or weight is a concern, there are other options available on the market catering to those needs.
Bone nut and saddle really bring the sound out. Good separation and overtones. Case shows use on outside, but all latches work perfectly. Nut and saddle are top quality bone replacement.
Very open with a lot of volume. Bridge is in perfect condition. The guitars top has aged to a beautiful warm color. It is structurally perfect and I just spent 250 leveling the frets that are in almost new condition dressing guitar.
Ever since then, no more Taylor guitars with the mustache bridge were made. Guitar comes with black HS case. The guitar is over 20 years old there are small dings on top, impossible to photograph or even see, unless you choose right angle.
The moustache bridge was an original design Taylor used in 70's, and dropped after a few dozens guitars, because it too complicated expensive to make mass production. In the mid 90s they brought this design back for a few years, but only used it on select model's, mainly no wear around sound hole. This is a golden age mid 90s Taylor considered the best sounding by many and no exception.
Neck is straight and true with a very low comfortable action. Not a buzz anywhere up and down the neck. Jumbo body is a perfect compromise as it gives you volume of dreadnought with an evenness orchestra model. There are a few deeper dings and light scratches tiny finish checks.