
( Brand: Taylor ), ( Part Type: Acoustic Brazilian )
Introducing the Taylor 814ce-L1, an exceptional offering from Taylor Guitars' Grand Auditorium series, dating back to 2003. This guitar boasts a captivating combination of tonal richness, playability, and visual allure, all thanks to its high-quality components.
Body and Neck:The 814ce-L1 features a solid Sitka spruce top paired with layered Brazilian rosewood back and sides. Brazilian rosewood, a highly prized exotic hardwood, is renowned for its beautiful figure, durability, and distinctive tonal qualities. The outfit emanates an aura of elegance, with its sleek, dark grain patterns contrasting against the light spruce top. The neck is crafted from sustainable Sapele wood, providing a strong and stable foundation for excellent playability and comfort.
Electronics:This guitar is equipped with Taylor's proprietary Expression System 2 electronics, which captures the guitar's natural tone and nuance when amplified or recorded. With its impressive sensitivity, dynamic range, and natural sound, this system ensures an authentic Taylor tone both on and off the stage. Included is the low-profile LR Baggs Stagepro Taylor acting as a built-in preamp and tuner system.
Hardware:The Taylor 814ce-L1 2003 Edition comes with top-notch hardware components. This includes Gotoh 510 tuning machines with gold buttons, providing precise tuning stability and smooth turning. The guitar roof saddle and string tree are made from real bone, ensuring optimal transfer of energy from the strings to the top while offering better intonation than plastic alternatives. The satin-finish gold bell-shaped bridge ensures a stable contact with the top, while enhancing tonal qualities through improved string vibration transfer.
Additional Features:Additional features of this spectacular instrument include a Venetian cutaway, which offers easy access to the upper frets, as well as an armrest, adding comfort during long playing sessions. The guitar sports a satin finish, giving it a warm, understated appearance, while its non-scalloped bracing maintains its structural integrity for exceptional sound quality.
In summary, the Taylor 814ce-L1 2003 Edition showcases a fine blend of classic Taylor craftsmanship, captivating exotic woods, sophisticated electronics, and impressive hardware components. Owning one of these instruments provides the guitarist with an unforgettable playing experience, delivering a sound that captivates both the ears and the spirit.
a. Premium Tonewoods: The Taylor 814ce-L1 features a solid Sitka spruce top and Brazilian rosewood back and sides. These high-quality tonewoods contribute to a rich, complex, and balanced tone.
b. Venetian Cutaway: The cutaway design on this guitar makes it easier to access the upper frets, allowing for greater playability and expression.
c. Expression System 2 Electronics: The LR Baggs Expression System 2 pickup and onboard preamp give a natural, uncompromised sound when amplified.
d. Durability and Sustainability: Although Brazilian rosewood is no longer used in new guitar production due to CITES regulations, owning a vintage 2003 Taylor 814ce-L1 provides the opportunity to enjoy the unique tone and visual aesthetic of this exotic wood.
e. Playability: Taylor guitars are renowned for their exceptional playability, and the 814ce-L1 is no exception.
2. Cons:a. Price: The premium materials and high-end craftsmanship reflect in the cost, making the 814ce-L1 a significant investment.
b. Limited Availability: Due to the vintage nature and the restrictions on Brazilian rosewood, it may be challenging to find this specific model in excellent condition and at a reasonable price.
c. Maintenance and Care: The exotic wood body requires extra care to maintain its appearance and prevent cracking or warping.
Conclusion:Buying a 2003 Taylor 814ce-L1 with Brazilian rosewood back and sides presents several advantages, including premium tonewoods, superior craftsmanship, and a unique aesthetic. However, it also comes with drawbacks like a high cost, limited availability, and increased maintenance requirements.
Recommendation:If you're an acoustic-electric guitar enthusiast with a substantial budget and a strong appreciation for Brazilian rosewood's exquisite tone and appearance, the 814ce-L1 could be an excellent investment. This guitar offers exceptional sound quality and playability and is a true collector's item. If the price and associated responsibilities are a concern, consider exploring other options in the Taylor line, such as newer models that feature alternative, sustainably sourced tonewoods.
Everything original. Nicely lined case provides secure storage. Definitely will get compliments if displayed. Limited edition in great shape.
Beautiful guitar made with brazilian rosewood no longer able to be imported.