They both sound great. I bought a Martin GPCPA4 a few months ago and I absolutely love it. A friend of mine asked me which is better Taylor or Martin. I said they're both great, if you want one that sounds warm and deep buy a Martin, and if you want one that sounds bright and rich buy a Taylor. They both have really nice resonance.
I totally agree with your assessment! I prefer the Martin because it matches up better with my baritone voice, but if I was a tenor I might prefer the Taylor.
You are correct. I have one of each. It depends on what you are playing as to which to use. I love them both. I've never plugged either in. I'm an acoustic guy.
I played the new version of the Taylor 312 CE with V bracing up against a few similarly priced Martin guitars yesterday. The Taylor totally blew them away. No contest. Bigger sound, more clarity, much much better top end. I realise that tone is a matter of taste, but I prefer a distinctive high end and a little less boomy bottom.
Great demo, just found it. Alot of Martin fans on here, and being from Pa., I get it. I played both at the music store, along with a few Gibson's, I just like the action and playability of Taylor guitars better, higher frets are easier to play, and the new V-class bracing swayed me to the Taylor. Good day.
After playing for 44 years I hear the difference the Taylor Blends all the notes together in a softer orchestration the Martin has individual notes that harmonize the Martin projects more and has a longer bell ring the Taylor has a softer projection that's uniformed - to me the Martin sounds better
Taylor and Martin both make great very high quality guitars. Tone is a matter of taste, but the Taylor sounds more balanced and smoother to me. Not as harsh. I played the 314ce with V bracing last week and compared it to some Martin road series guitars. I was blown away. The playability was sensational; easily the best playing acoustic I’ve ever played. It sounds incredibly musical and the intonation all over the neck sounds perfect. Honestly it would make anyone sound better imho.
The Dude I had these both at the same time, and I feel quite different. Side by side, the Taylor rings like a bell, sounding like a 12 string compared with the more dull (but great) sound of Martin. Thats my 2 cents.
@@kauko8124 well, thats your perspective, I have played with Paul McCartney, ZZ Top and a few others and if you look at the manufacturing, Martin is better. I owned a Taylor 714ce and liked it but comparatively it was not the same nor the quality Ive had with my Martin D18 and D41. Ive owned 21 different makes, Thats why there are so many different manufacturers, models and styles so you can write and play the tonality, play-ability and sound that fits your style. James Taylor one of the finest guitarists ever and he plays Gibson J50 and Olson. they are great guitars, but I dont want to spend what an olson costs and Gibson's neck is to thick for me, so there are many guitars made for the individual player. Someone asked BB King what is the best guitar and he said, the one you never want to put down.
The Martin is better for flat picking and strumming with better bass response. The Taylor is way more articulate and balanced for fingerstyle.. Fingerstyle- Taylor, Picking/ Strumming- Martin
I love how Taylor and Martin can make a less expensive guitar and they still hold there signature sound. I bought a 12 string Mexican mad Martin and I absolutely love it
Yes I got a Taylor 110ce, wish I had got the 114ce, made in mexico with layered walnut back and sides, spruce top. I would like to hear solid walnut back and sides, this sounds great with just the layered walnut.
just wondering why a sm58 type as mic and not a conderser on the 12th fret. This soundscape raises questios to me... they sound different, but which is better cannot tell...?
I have a Martin I bought in 1971. Over the years it's aged into an amazing instrument. I'd like hear how Taylor's age. What do they sound like after a few decades. I'll always be a Martin man.
Both sound great, subtle differences. I’ve owned 3 USA Martins, 2 of which cracked. The most recent was a 000-16e (granadillo) that split wide open about 10” long on the back side less than two months after purchasing new. My room is humidified (38-40% RH). I sent it to Nazareth and Martin basically told me F U and wanted almost as much money to repair it as it cost new. I know that wood was dried out the first day after receiving it as the open B had a distinct rattle, which also happened on the G string 4th fret and D string 9th fret. It was frequency related, not the string, nut or saddle. Contacted Martin within 24 hours of day one and was told that is often the case when wood is dried out and the top drops. In other words, their CSR told me from the beginning it was dried wood, the guitar was manufactured in March 2020 and I took delivery on May 18. Covid era, factory closed, QC was furloughed. I’m sure at the time orders were “ship it” with a skeleton work crew. 7 weeks later, guitar splits wide open and I now own a $1600 wall ornament. That being said, I’ll choose the Taylor. Yes, it costs more, but it has ebony vs formica for a fretboard and bridge, real wood neck vs particle board. And having been given the holier than thou treatment from Martin (they’re perfect and never make mistakes), time to give Taylor a shot. Martin’s warranty should be stated “30 feet or 30 seconds, whichever comes first”.
Damn! I'm so glad I ran across this. I was about a week away from ordering the exact same guitar from Sweetwater. I've been drooling over it for awhile now. Now, I think I'll wait. Sorry about your experience. I would be really frustrated if in your shoes. I have a Road Series D13 from Mexico I bought last year that I gig with and I love it. But I want an American made Martin.....we'll see. I bought the D13 because my Taylor 214ce deluxe has a weird tone when the G string is played. Changed strings several times, took it back to Guitar Center who took it apart and tried to fix it...they failed to do so. They couldn't figure it out. I found a thread that has people with the same problems on their Taylors. Who knows....
I owned both a Taylor 414ceLTD (Indian RW) and a Martin GPCPA2 (also Indian). Both very fine guitars, and as with the demo above, I preferred the Martin neck just slightly more (a bit less bulky) and I preferred the Martin tone, because I want that full sound. I get some folks like that characteristic Taylor scooped tone. To me, in the end, the Taylor tone was very pretty, but too thin.
Everyone's style/taste is different so not knocking on Taylor but I have owned 5 Taylor's. 214ce, 314ce, 416ce, dn7, and 816ce. I just bought the martin last week and to be honest to my ears and how I like my sound the martin sounds better then double it's priced 816ce from Taylor. Unplugged that is. I love martin and if anyone's looking for a woody, loud, responsive guitar get the martin. Should add that I have to rosewood model not sapele. Either way still martin wins over Taylor to my ears
Why did the volume decrease at 10:34? Was the Martin guitar louder? Additionally, the title says Taylor 316ce but the video subtitle says Taylor 314ce mic'ed.
Strats vs Les Pauls Depends on what you play. I play fingerstyle exclusively. I've played both. No comparison the Taylor is much more dynamically responsive to me as well as easier to play. It sounds a lot like my Larrivee. You simply cannot tell with this recording technique.
Yeah this is where I'm at. On recordings, I think I may prefer the Martin sound. Actually playing it - I just love how responsive and bright the Taylor is. Feels great to play.
I read many of the comments. My take after quickly going back and forth around 8:53 or so a bit is that they are very similar and the difference is not sigificant but very subtle. Both are great guitars. When I chose the Taylor over the Martin, the playability was the deal maker. How my hand responded to the feel of the neck, and action set up is what finalized my decision. Aesthetically I liked the Tayor a bit more. To each their own, they're both wonderful and I'm totally happy to have one.
In this video: The Martin projects more. It is noticeably louder, you can tell when they lowered the volume while producing this video. Now, my humble opinion is: I like the Martin's deeper tone, and ringing treble. I like Taylor Guitars; I own one, and I would not mind owning more. As a matter of fact, I want a Taylor 814 (but I have to compare it to a 400 series before I buy), a K24ce, and I want to hear their 516ce to determine if I want a mahogany Taylor. I also want a Gibson Songwriter. A lady that played, in a worship group I was a part of had one and I really liked the tone and the beauty of that dread. That being said, I will buy a Martin D 28 next (barring finding any deals that I'd be a fool to pass up). I also want a Martin D 18, a 000-15M, and the GPCPA with the deeper body (made for Guitar Center) and the turquoise rope perfuling (sp?). When Martin "reimagined" their Standard Series in 2017, they went to a 1 3/4" nut and a Performing Artist neck. I really like the way they handle and play now. Before, I always thought Taylor had the better playing necks. Taylor's necks are less $$ to have adjusted, and I really like the compound carve (soft V low on the neck and flattening to an oval higher up the neck. Of course, this is player preference. I love how both brands sound; along with Gibson, Lavarrie, Collings, Takamine, some Yamaha's and several others. Taylor recently came out with "V-class" bracing. It is only available in the Grand Auditorium 300 series and up. This new bracing pattern makes the GA's louder, sustain longer, and most importantly - improves intonation all the way up the fretboard. I have had the opportunity to play several models with this "V-class" bracing, and I concur with Taylor's claims. Before I played the 314ce with "V-class" bracing, I did not like the way the 300 series sounded. With this new bracing, I actually considered owning one. If Taylor would lower the price from $2000.00 to $1500.00, I would buy one. I do not have a favorite brand. All of the top manufacturers make something (or have made something) that I really like(d). There are several "inexpensive" guitars that I really like as well. I also concur with many people on not caring for Taylor's Expression System 2 electronics. Maybe we just do not know how to properly EQ it to sound great. I prefer the L.R. Baggs Anthem system for acoustic guitars, and there are many who will disagree on this as well. That is what is so great about playing guitar today: There is something for every guitar player in this current market. We have never had better choices! Thanks for posting this! It would take me forever to compare all of the models I would like to try. I know the only true way to tell is to go play the models yourself, because there is so much more to a guitar than compressed RUclips tones and cosmetics.
I own the Martin GPCPA4 Rosewood model. When I bought it in 2013, I asked the sales rep about the comparable Taylor model. He said they were more expensive. I also felt the Martin had a fuller sound where the Taylor was a little sharp sounding. I have owned a 312 in the past. I preferred Martin.
At around 12:34, it sounds like someone turns up the amp while the Martin is playing. The Taylor was so low, I had to turn up the volume. Not sure what happened, but the difference wasn't between the guitars.
I thought the same thing. In a different video, Chris said that the Taylor is brighter and you can hear every individual note of the chord, where the Martin just sounded warmer and with a better bottom end. It seemed just the opposite to me in this video.
I've owned both guitars. Given that they have the same top and back and sides and scalloped bracing, why does the Martin have a warmer sound and the Taylor a brighter sound? Is it really down to the positioning of the bracing?
Hard to say anything definitive without playing them or seeing them in person, but they both sound great, though different. The Taylor has a nice bright upper range that would work very well with finger style material. The Martin is so rich and smooth, it makes me think of what chocolate syrup would sound like. When they played thru their pickups I thought the Martin sounded too feedback-ey. The Taylor sounded indistinguishable from when it was miked.
I can’t say one is better than the other, they simply have different voices. After playing a Martin for ten years, I’ve been test driving the Taylor to mix it up. And when I finally pull the trigger and buy it, I plan to keep and play both. 👍
I liked them both.When strummed with the mic.,I preferred the sound of the Taylor.When the guitars were finger picked and the pickups systems were engaged I preferred the Martin pickup.Enjoyed the review thanks.
I own an earlier version of the Martin... it’s my performance guitar choice... it’s my second Martin... got to admit I think the Taylor sounds great as well... less tinny... tried both out ... I am only 25 miles from the Martin factory in PA... was my main decision factor in my purchase... can’t go wrong with either in my opinion! Nice demo my friend!
Just like you get used to 1 TexMex restaurant, and really like it...so you just keep going back because that's the flavor you like. Same for your ears. Your favorite is your favorite. I find the same holds for high end audio speaker systems and equalizer adjustments....You tend to like the style you're used to.
Both nice and full sounding, the Taylor is more articulated on single notes, bright and lively. The Martin is more restrained, with a warm chorded voice, perfect for a singer, as it has some mid range scoop.
Both sound great, but it seems like the Taylor reaches its breaking point a lot sooner than the Martin does. Good comparison of the two guitars. Having played a 314 for some time and now owning a Martin, there's nothing like feeling that deep tone resonating against your body that you get with a Martin. The 314, while a great guitar, just doesn't give you that feeling.
Thanks Chris, I have the 314ce bought after watching one of your reviews. TBH I have a 414ce R also bought with your help.....if Only I was in the States it would have been from you but unfortunately not. Keep up the great reviews and catch you in the Group
With earbuds, you really tell the difference. The Martin sounds much fuller and handles heavy strumming and flatpicking without straining. Fingerpicking, both have beautiful tone. Slight edge to Taylor. The Martin would benefit being set back slightly from the mic because of its volume.
Imagine a 3 band EQ. Best way to describe difference is the Martin sounds scooped and the Taylor mid is set higher and treble is set slightly lower. It’s all what you prefer. I like the scooped sound myself
Bought this Martin around the time of this video. The binding around the guitar has started separating. I had a luthier repair about a section the length of the body on one side. Had left a bunch of wood glue residue that took a lot of elbow grease to remove. Later another section of the binding separated that I tried to repair myself. Made the mistake of using super glue that made a terrible mess that I cannot remove. Now I have bits of scotch tape holding a few areas that look like they are starting to come loose. Thank God they are in the back! It sucks to have a Martin that has tape on it! Was really disappointed that when I finally got my first Martin guitar it had this problem. Never expected that with the name that is supposed to be synonymous with the best, that I would have to deal with binding falling off. Looking at buying a Taylor now.
Guitar Center said they no longer have the gpcpa4 Martin in any stores but only in their warehouses. Hard to compare the side-by-side if once sits in the warehouse and the 314 is hanging in the guitar showroom ready to be played. Not interested in ordering a Martin if it's not on the showroom. October 2019
This is just my opinion and a little story that just happened yesterday ... Every person has their own personal preference & perspective on which is better or sounds better when it comes to guitars or any instrument for that matter .. We all have different taste and a different ear . I have always wanted a Martin from playing them at Guitar Center and other guitar stores .. But I went in to Guitar Center yesterday to get some strings and other misc, stuff and of course I went to the acoustic room to play the new Martins, Taylors & Gibsons .. While I'm playing the most expensive ones there, my wife brings me a used 2012 Taylor 314ce (looks brand new, not one blemish) .. I played it and ended up taking it home that day.. Wasn't because of cost, it was that one was meant for me. We bonded together perfectly.. It sounded better than all the top dollar new ones (even the newest more expensive Taylors) .. Not that mine was cheap .. I dropped a pretty penny on it, but a good amount cheaper than the ones I were playing.. The person who previously owned this guitar had it dialed in perfect..
This is how a comparison video should be! Different styles of playing back to back.Thanks for this. Great playing. I found maybe your recording device had an automatic gain control and dropped some of the gain while you were playing the Martin. I'll take that as possibly the Martin had more natural volume and your recorder adjusted?
Cristiano Guedes de Morais Sorry I'm late, but I decided on the 214ce DLX, and that is definitely so much better as far as feel goes. And also as far as looks go, I really like how the Taylor has a full gloss body, and a colored pick guard, and my favorite of all, the white binding.
+Will Hart Tanks for the answer. What a great coincidence, I just bought one exactly the same as yours and I am very satisfied !! I do not think I could have made a better choice by considering the price.
My first guitar was a Martin HD28 bought for $850 in 1983. Had to sell in 1992 for $850. Got a Taylor 314 new in 2002 for 2k and lost it in Austin in 2017. Today I bought a used Gcpa4 for $800. I thought it was almost identical to my 314. Tonal differences of course but I'm happy with my new/used Martin. The HD28 blows everything away but I found it hard to play.
It’s always hard to beat a Martin: so rich, tight and focused with deeper basses. They do however require a little more effort in terms of playability, that’s the price for the best tone.
Only way to tell is own both and road test them. Another test for me is if I can start writing a song immediately on a guitar. This Martin came up used so gonna try it out!
If you ever find yourself in San Diego , go to Taylor and take their factory tour. They have a guitar made from pallet wood that will amaze you as to sound and build quality.
Tried to like Martins. Looked for ages but they all sound dull and thunky. I have 4 Taylors and they all provide opportunity to illicit a fuller range than the Martins. I'll keep looking, though. Same thing with a Les Paul and Strat. Tried to find a nice LP and settled on a Tribute but my old Strat is the complete instrument. Just my opinion, of course. Isn't it nice that we're not all the same?
You're exactly right. Martins have a dull sound where Taylors have more crisp character in sound. Idk why people are bashing on the Taylor when it clearly has more character in the sound?
I was once debating on buying the 314ce but i ended up with a Martin GPCPA4R instead. It's the same as this one, but it has east indian rosewood back and sides and white binding around the body. Look it up. It's a sweet guitar.
Anyone have good suggestions for best strings to use for the 314ce? I'm trying to mellow the sound a little. Also which guitar is more reliable? Holds value longer? Is the Taylor neck prone to warp? I am thinking of switching to Martin
Sean Griffith most acoustic don’t hold there value as well as electrics for example a I bought my Martin dcpa4 for about 1500 and I’m selling it for 800 wich is a drop for it being in such good condition, I paid 1500 for my tele and got 1100 for it so yes they don’t hold as well, Taylor necks are great, fast and reliable.
I own a Taylor. It was my first acoustic. Was looking to get another. Either the 314 or 414ce. I have to admit I think the Martin in this vid sounded better to my ears. Now it’s got me thinking.
The electronics are a clear winner on the Taylor. The electronics on the Martin are reminiscent of the “synthetic” sound I get from my low tier fender acoustic. Just me two cents, it seems like I had a way harder time getting a good tone to come out of the Martin. It might be I just hate the stock strings on the Martin. Also, I hate the offset fret dots. It looks stupid and will not stand the test of time. 10 years people are going to look at those dots and jut question why Martin ever put them like that. Note: I own neither of these guitars, so I’m not biased by a purchase of either brand.
Hi , Can you show comparision o Taylor brand acoustic guitar and Martin brand of the same price range in the market but in the range of US$1000? I am planning to buy a good guitar for my lifetime use and I left playing guitar for the last 20 years as I was busy in my medicine practice as a Physician. Now, I am 52 years and I wana start playing guitar again as I feel playing these days. I was music contestant 25 years ago in my college life but now in my retiring phase of my life.
I don't want to say any guitar is necessarily better. However, generally when there is an 800 dollar price difference a guitar will have better volume, playability and tone than the less expensive guitar. Especially a reputable high quality brand like Martin.
Martin sounds ‘thunky’ to me, and that’s typical imo. Taylor has more high end sheen and the top bracing changes tone a lot when the guitar is played hard. I prefer the Taylor, and own several.
This is an older video, Taylor has developed new V bracing around 2018....not sure exactly but stores have all V bracing models now in 2019 around where I live. Andy Powers I believe is the heir to the Taylor lead designer throne. But the V bracing does change things. You should check it out before making a choice at this point. I am not a Taylor shill, I am a fan of all well made guitars. I had Alvarez guitars before the 2005 takeover by loud technologies.
I can hear notes clearer with Taylor. And it has some kind of bolting neck which makes it winner because maintanence. Martin has darker and more bass(booming) sound. Both are good but I will take Taylor. But when I really play these winner is which one suits my hand better, so playability how hard is play... edit. I hear Martin string buzz about 15:10. Players fault or guitar's?
One each please. 🤠 I love the sound of both. The Martin sounds more classic to me and the Taylor has a more modern tone to me. Keep up the great videos. They are all informative.
Martin guitars always sound better playing with fingers. Choosing strings appropriate for the way you play (fingers, pick, etc) will determine whether or not the guitar will perform to its maximum potential.
I bought my GPCPA4 back in 2014. Sadly, discontinued. Because the value for money you get with this guitar is unreal. I was A/B comparing this one to other guitars in the shop. It was blowing away guitars at twice the price. $1,340 pre-tax back then, it was only the guitars at about $3,000 that started to reach parity. Built-in pick up system, and a hard shell case. A very easy choice: I bought it on the spot … it’s a great all-around guitar.
you have to give HUGE props to Martin for being the first brand to take the idea of building guitars while still promoting Sustainable Development to the premiere standard. Richlite is FSC Certified, and comes from recycled paper and resin, yet will Last Long and has a similar look and feel to Ebony. I laughed so hard when a friend of mine said: "Ahah! But it's not wood from a real tree!" and I replied: "hmm, so where does paper come from?" and he goes: "cmon man, everyone knows that paper comes from....Ohh....huh..." "yyeepp" XD XD XD Best reaction ever!
Man. That song at 11:32 on the Taylor to me sounded so much better than on the Martin. It gave me goosebumps when the Taylor was being played and when it switched over, it felt a little washed out on the Martin. The clarity and richness from the Taylor feels nicer to me. I think when they're being played softly, the Taylor sounds much more pleasant, and they both sound great when played loud.
So many similarities and such a similar sound and playablity, it would come down to price for me - Martin GPCA4 should go for 1200 ( I know it MSRP is1,899.00 on the Martin Web site- Taylor 314 CE retails for 1999, but can be purchased for around 1700. Tha'ts 500 more for the Taylor 314CE - not worth the extra money... One thing I do like is the old Fishman F1 pick up and controls on the Martin GPCPA4. Plus it come with a Tuner. Good Demo -thx Randy
This is super helpful even now in 2018.. both are great guitars, but the clarity of the Taylor wins for me. I have a line on this exact Martin but may hold out for the Taylor.. ahh the decisions we face are lucky ones :)
Hi Goodmorning, I just wanna request you to show the comparision of Taylor brand acoustic guitar and Martin brand of the price range around US$ 1000 but I prefer to dreadnought type. My intention is to play and sing at the same time. So, definitely, I will go for the one which can sound with more Basal tone.
Every time I try to like a Taylor, I'm disappointed. (Though I do like my little GS Mini for what it is). Sterile and lacking organics, IMO. Anything below a *16 model never seems to have the amount of bass I love about Martins.
They both sound great. I bought a Martin GPCPA4 a few months ago and I absolutely love it. A friend of mine asked me which is better Taylor or Martin. I said they're both great, if you want one that sounds warm and deep buy a Martin, and if you want one that sounds bright and rich buy a Taylor. They both have really nice resonance.
It's true, the Martin is more bass-y. The Taylor is more strident. Great guitars, both.
I totally agree with your assessment! I prefer the Martin because it matches up better with my baritone voice, but if I was a tenor I might prefer the Taylor.
or if you want something inbetween sounding guitar? buy a Guild
@@skraka98 Thank you
You are correct. I have one of each. It depends on what you are playing as to which to use. I love them both. I've never plugged either in. I'm an acoustic guy.
I think the Martin has an extra warmth in the sound. Kind of the comparison from a tube amp to a solid state. I like the Martin better.
My Taylor 714ce has warmth for days...
George Johnston well at that price point it still would not touch a Martin.....duh
I played the new version of the Taylor 312 CE with V bracing up against a few similarly priced Martin guitars yesterday. The Taylor totally blew them away. No contest. Bigger sound, more clarity, much much better top end. I realise that tone is a matter of taste, but I prefer a distinctive high end and a little less boomy bottom.
I was a Taylor fan but I just loved the full sound of the Martin.Just when I think I finally got it figured out,this Matin came along.
I like his review . he tells the truth . I have both a Martin and a Taylor . I love them both .
Great demo, just found it. Alot of Martin fans on here, and being from Pa., I get it. I played both at the music store, along with a few Gibson's, I just like the action and playability of Taylor guitars better, higher frets are easier to play, and the new V-class bracing swayed me to the Taylor. Good day.
After playing for 44 years I hear the difference the Taylor Blends all the notes together in a softer orchestration the Martin has individual notes that harmonize the Martin projects more and has a longer bell ring the Taylor has a softer projection that's uniformed - to me the Martin sounds better
Taylor and Martin both make great very high quality guitars. Tone is a matter of taste, but the Taylor sounds more balanced and smoother to me. Not as harsh. I played the 314ce with V bracing last week and compared it to some Martin road series guitars. I was blown away. The playability was sensational; easily the best playing acoustic I’ve ever played. It sounds incredibly musical and the intonation all over the neck sounds perfect. Honestly it would make anyone sound better imho.
The Dude agree
The Dude I had these both at the same time, and I feel quite different. Side by side, the Taylor rings like a bell, sounding like a 12 string compared with the more dull (but great) sound of Martin. Thats my 2 cents.
@@kauko8124 well, thats your perspective, I have played with Paul McCartney, ZZ Top and a few others and if you look at the manufacturing, Martin is better. I owned a Taylor 714ce and liked it but comparatively it was not the same nor the quality Ive had with my Martin D18 and D41. Ive owned 21 different makes, Thats why there are so many different manufacturers, models and styles so you can write and play the tonality, play-ability and sound that fits your style. James Taylor one of the finest guitarists ever and he plays Gibson J50 and Olson. they are great guitars, but I dont want to spend what an olson costs and Gibson's neck is to thick for me, so there are many guitars made for the individual player. Someone asked BB King what is the best guitar and he said, the one you never want to put down.
The Martin is better for flat picking and strumming with better bass response. The Taylor is way more articulate and balanced for fingerstyle.. Fingerstyle- Taylor, Picking/ Strumming- Martin
Hearing the Martin being played brings me so much ear-joy! I bought my GPCPA4 in early 2015. I love it.
What price was the Martin?
I went with the GPCA4 Rosewood (USA made)! I tried it and feels like the Martin matches closely with the 414 Taylor at the price point of a 314!
I've owned a Martin D48 for 12 years and recently traded it at Guitar Center for a Taylor 314 CE-V GCE, loved it. Finally owned a Taylor after 30 yrs!
Larry Bautista Martin doesn’t make D48.
@@davidmathley5877 LOL
I love how Taylor and Martin can make a less expensive guitar and they still hold there signature sound. I bought a 12 string Mexican mad Martin and I absolutely love it
Yes I got a Taylor 110ce, wish I had got the 114ce, made in mexico with layered walnut back and sides, spruce top. I would like to hear solid walnut back and sides, this sounds great with just the layered walnut.
just wondering why a sm58 type as mic and not a conderser on the 12th fret. This soundscape raises questios to me... they sound different, but which is better cannot tell...?
I have a Martin I bought in 1971. Over the years it's aged into an amazing instrument. I'd like hear how Taylor's age. What do they sound like after a few decades. I'll always be a Martin man.
Both sound great, subtle differences. I’ve owned 3 USA Martins, 2 of which cracked. The most recent was a 000-16e (granadillo) that split wide open about 10” long on the back side less than two months after purchasing new. My room is humidified (38-40% RH). I sent it to Nazareth and Martin basically told me F U and wanted almost as much money to repair it as it cost new. I know that wood was dried out the first day after receiving it as the open B had a distinct rattle, which also happened on the G string 4th fret and D string 9th fret. It was frequency related, not the string, nut or saddle. Contacted Martin within 24 hours of day one and was told that is often the case when wood is dried out and the top drops. In other words, their CSR told me from the beginning it was dried wood, the guitar was manufactured in March 2020 and I took delivery on May 18. Covid era, factory closed, QC was furloughed. I’m sure at the time orders were “ship it” with a skeleton work crew. 7 weeks later, guitar splits wide open and I now own a $1600 wall ornament. That being said, I’ll choose the Taylor. Yes, it costs more, but it has ebony vs formica for a fretboard and bridge, real wood neck vs particle board. And having been given the holier than thou treatment from Martin (they’re perfect and never make mistakes), time to give Taylor a shot. Martin’s warranty should be stated “30 feet or 30 seconds, whichever comes first”.
Damn! I'm so glad I ran across this. I was about a week away from ordering the exact same guitar from Sweetwater. I've been drooling over it for awhile now. Now, I think I'll wait. Sorry about your experience. I would be really frustrated if in your shoes. I have a Road Series D13 from Mexico I bought last year that I gig with and I love it. But I want an American made Martin.....we'll see. I bought the D13 because my Taylor 214ce deluxe has a weird tone when the G string is played. Changed strings several times, took it back to Guitar Center who took it apart and tried to fix it...they failed to do so. They couldn't figure it out. I found a thread that has people with the same problems on their Taylors. Who knows....
I owned both a Taylor 414ceLTD (Indian RW) and a Martin GPCPA2 (also Indian). Both very fine guitars, and as with the demo above, I preferred the Martin neck just slightly more (a bit less bulky) and I preferred the Martin tone, because I want that full sound. I get some folks like that characteristic Taylor scooped tone. To me, in the end, the Taylor tone was very pretty, but too thin.
Everyone's style/taste is different so not knocking on Taylor but I have owned 5 Taylor's. 214ce, 314ce, 416ce, dn7, and 816ce. I just bought the martin last week and to be honest to my ears and how I like my sound the martin sounds better then double it's priced 816ce from Taylor. Unplugged that is. I love martin and if anyone's looking for a woody, loud, responsive guitar get the martin. Should add that I have to rosewood model not sapele. Either way still martin wins over Taylor to my ears
You can send me one 😊😊😊
both are a pleasure to the ears. I prefer the harmonic over tones on the martin :)
That's not about who is the winner. Both of them have a great sound and character. Great comparation 👍
Just bought the Martin, love it. Great review, cheers
Ive always played taylors, but my friend had a martin gpcpa4
and i am in love
They're amazing guitars!
I've owned both ... Just sold the Taylor and looking for a 2nd Martin.
I had a Taylor. Sold it and bought this Martin. I love it.
Why did the volume decrease at 10:34? Was the Martin guitar louder? Additionally, the title says Taylor 316ce but the video subtitle says Taylor 314ce mic'ed.
I noticed that!!!! MARTIN ALL THE WAY
Strats vs Les Pauls
Depends on what you play. I play fingerstyle exclusively. I've played both. No comparison the Taylor is much more dynamically responsive to me as well as easier to play. It sounds a lot like my Larrivee.
You simply cannot tell with this recording technique.
Yeah this is where I'm at. On recordings, I think I may prefer the Martin sound. Actually playing it - I just love how responsive and bright the Taylor is. Feels great to play.
I read many of the comments. My take after quickly going back and forth around 8:53 or so a bit is that they are very similar and the difference is not sigificant but very subtle. Both are great guitars. When I chose the Taylor over the Martin, the playability was the deal maker. How my hand responded to the feel of the neck, and action set up is what finalized my decision. Aesthetically I liked the Tayor a bit more. To each their own, they're both wonderful and I'm totally happy to have one.
In this video: The Martin projects more. It is noticeably louder, you can tell when they lowered the volume while producing this video. Now, my humble opinion is: I like the Martin's deeper tone, and ringing treble. I like Taylor Guitars; I own one, and I would not mind owning more. As a matter of fact, I want a Taylor 814 (but I have to compare it to a 400 series before I buy), a K24ce, and I want to hear their 516ce to determine if I want a mahogany Taylor. I also want a Gibson Songwriter. A lady that played, in a worship group I was a part of had one and I really liked the tone and the beauty of that dread. That being said, I will buy a Martin D 28 next (barring finding any deals that I'd be a fool to pass up). I also want a Martin D 18, a 000-15M, and the GPCPA with the deeper body (made for Guitar Center) and the turquoise rope perfuling (sp?). When Martin "reimagined" their Standard Series in 2017, they went to a 1 3/4" nut and a Performing Artist neck. I really like the way they handle and play now. Before, I always thought Taylor had the better playing necks. Taylor's necks are less $$ to have adjusted, and I really like the compound carve (soft V low on the neck and flattening to an oval higher up the neck. Of course, this is player preference. I love how both brands sound; along with Gibson, Lavarrie, Collings, Takamine, some Yamaha's and several others. Taylor recently came out with "V-class" bracing. It is only available in the Grand Auditorium 300 series and up. This new bracing pattern makes the GA's louder, sustain longer, and most importantly - improves intonation all the way up the fretboard. I have had the opportunity to play several models with this "V-class" bracing, and I concur with Taylor's claims. Before I played the 314ce with "V-class" bracing, I did not like the way the 300 series sounded. With this new bracing, I actually considered owning one. If Taylor would lower the price from $2000.00 to $1500.00, I would buy one. I do not have a favorite brand. All of the top manufacturers make something (or have made something) that I really like(d). There are several "inexpensive" guitars that I really like as well. I also concur with many people on not caring for Taylor's Expression System 2 electronics. Maybe we just do not know how to properly EQ it to sound great. I prefer the L.R. Baggs Anthem system for acoustic guitars, and there are many who will disagree on this as well. That is what is so great about playing guitar today: There is something for every guitar player in this current market. We have never had better choices!
Thanks for posting this! It would take me forever to compare all of the models I would like to try. I know the only true way to tell is to go play the models yourself, because there is so much more to a guitar than compressed RUclips tones and cosmetics.
I own the Martin GPCPA4 Rosewood model. When I bought it in 2013, I asked the sales rep about the comparable Taylor model. He said they were more expensive. I also felt the Martin had a fuller sound where the Taylor was a little sharp sounding. I have owned a 312 in the past. I preferred Martin.
At around 12:34, it sounds like someone turns up the amp while the Martin is playing. The Taylor was so low, I had to turn up the volume. Not sure what happened, but the difference wasn't between the guitars.
I thought the same thing. In a different video, Chris said that the Taylor is brighter and you can hear every individual note of the chord, where the Martin just sounded warmer and with a better bottom end. It seemed just the opposite to me in this video.
Always a very thorough and informative presentation. Both have fine tone and are well demonstrated.
I've owned both guitars. Given that they have the same top and back and sides and scalloped bracing, why does the Martin have a warmer sound and the Taylor a brighter sound? Is it really down to the positioning of the bracing?
fair comment on the battery location, still torn between the 2 !!!!!!!
Hard to say anything definitive without playing them or seeing them in person, but they both sound great, though different. The Taylor has a nice bright upper range that would work very well with finger style material. The Martin is so rich and smooth, it makes me think of what chocolate syrup would sound like. When they played thru their pickups I thought the Martin sounded too feedback-ey. The Taylor sounded indistinguishable from when it was miked.
I can’t say one is better than the other, they simply have different voices. After playing a Martin for ten years, I’ve been test driving the Taylor to mix it up. And when I finally pull the trigger and buy it, I plan to keep and play both. 👍
I liked them both.When strummed with the mic.,I preferred the sound of the Taylor.When the guitars were finger picked and the pickups systems were engaged I preferred the Martin pickup.Enjoyed the review thanks.
I just bought the GPCPA4 RW GT from guitar center in reno, and it sounds awesome!
I own an earlier version of the Martin... it’s my performance guitar choice... it’s my second Martin... got to admit I think the Taylor sounds great as well... less tinny... tried both out ... I am only 25 miles from the Martin factory in PA... was my main decision factor in my purchase... can’t go wrong with either in my opinion!
Nice demo my friend!
Thanks for commenting!
Just like you get used to 1 TexMex restaurant, and really like it...so you just keep going back because that's the flavor you like. Same for your ears. Your favorite is your favorite. I find the same holds for high end audio speaker systems and equalizer adjustments....You tend to like the style you're used to.
Both nice and full sounding, the Taylor is more articulated on single notes, bright and lively. The Martin is more restrained, with a warm chorded voice, perfect for a singer, as it has some mid range scoop.
Both sound great, but it seems like the Taylor reaches its breaking point a lot sooner than the Martin does. Good comparison of the two guitars. Having played a 314 for some time and now owning a Martin, there's nothing like feeling that deep tone resonating against your body that you get with a Martin. The 314, while a great guitar, just doesn't give you that feeling.
Just bought the Taylor today 😁
I love it. The Martin is also nice 👌
I have had two Martin DCPA-4’s and the binding has come loose on both of them. I still love this guitar though
Which one would you rather play? Is there a difference in the playability of them? Does the Martin have a higher action?
Thanks Chris, I have the 314ce bought after watching one of your reviews. TBH I have a 414ce R also bought with your help.....if Only I was in the States it would have been from you but unfortunately not. Keep up the great reviews and catch you in the Group
With earbuds, you really tell the difference. The Martin sounds much fuller and handles heavy strumming and flatpicking without straining. Fingerpicking, both have beautiful tone. Slight edge to Taylor. The Martin would benefit being set back slightly from the mic because of its volume.
Imagine a 3 band EQ. Best way to describe difference is the Martin sounds scooped and the Taylor mid is set higher and treble is set slightly lower. It’s all what you prefer. I like the scooped sound myself
Bought this Martin around the time of this video.
The binding around the guitar has started separating. I had a luthier repair about a section the length of the body on one side.
Had left a bunch of wood glue residue that took a lot of elbow grease to remove.
Later another section of the binding separated that I tried to repair myself. Made the mistake of using super glue that made a terrible mess that I cannot remove.
Now I have bits of scotch tape holding a few areas that look like they are starting to come loose. Thank God they are in the back! It sucks to have a Martin that has tape on it!
Was really disappointed that when I finally got my first Martin guitar it had this problem.
Never expected that with the name that is supposed to be synonymous with the best, that I would have to deal with binding falling off.
Looking at buying a Taylor now.
I've played both....Martin projects more and jives with a fishman amp beautifully
I have a 314 v brace and it's a nice guitar and I think the playability is hard to beat. I wonder if the martin here is as easy to play as the 314.
Guitar Center said they no longer have the gpcpa4 Martin in any stores but only in their warehouses. Hard to compare the side-by-side if once sits in the warehouse and the 314 is hanging in the guitar showroom ready to be played. Not interested in ordering a Martin if it's not on the showroom. October 2019
This is just my opinion and a little story that just happened yesterday ... Every person has their own personal preference & perspective on which is better or sounds better when it comes to guitars or any instrument for that matter .. We all have different taste and a different ear . I have always wanted a Martin from playing them at Guitar Center and other guitar stores .. But I went in to Guitar Center yesterday to get some strings and other misc, stuff and of course I went to the acoustic room to play the new Martins, Taylors & Gibsons .. While I'm playing the most expensive ones there, my wife brings me a used 2012 Taylor 314ce (looks brand new, not one blemish) .. I played it and ended up taking it home that day.. Wasn't because of cost, it was that one was meant for me. We bonded together perfectly.. It sounded better than all the top dollar new ones (even the newest more expensive Taylors) .. Not that mine was cheap .. I dropped a pretty penny on it, but a good amount cheaper than the ones I were playing.. The person who previously owned this guitar had it dialed in perfect..
Warmth vs brightness ... both amazing guitars
Love them both. Bought the Martin!
This is how a comparison video should be! Different styles of playing back to back.Thanks for this. Great playing. I found maybe your recording device had an automatic gain control and dropped some of the gain while you were playing the Martin. I'll take that as possibly the Martin had more natural volume and your recorder adjusted?
I'm trying to decide between the 214ce and the GPCRSGT if anyone could help me out. I've played them both a lot, but I can't make a decision.
tell me your choice when you decide. i´m tryng to decide too.
You cant buy a guitar by others opinion. Buy the one that sounds better or if both are as good buy cheaper
Cristiano Guedes de Morais Sorry I'm late, but I decided on the 214ce DLX, and that is definitely so much better as far as feel goes. And also as far as looks go, I really like how the Taylor has a full gloss body, and a colored pick guard, and my favorite of all, the white binding.
+Will Hart Tanks for the answer. What a great coincidence, I just bought one exactly the same as yours and I am very satisfied !! I do not think I could have made a better choice by considering the price.
Haha wow congrats man! I got an amazing price on mine
My first guitar was a Martin HD28 bought for $850 in 1983. Had to sell in 1992 for $850. Got a Taylor 314 new in 2002 for 2k and lost it in Austin in 2017. Today I bought a used Gcpa4 for $800. I thought it was almost identical to my 314. Tonal differences of course but I'm happy with my new/used Martin. The HD28 blows everything away but I found it hard to play.
What strings? What pick? They both sound like they were strung with strings that were too light and too low.
What are "ping" tuners! Are they cast by the golf club company?
Martin for sure. But if you have a Taylor it’s a fine guitar as well
It’s always hard to beat a Martin: so rich, tight and focused with deeper basses. They do however require a little more effort in terms of playability, that’s the price for the best tone.
Also, let’s consider the electronics. Which is best plugged in?
Only way to tell is own both and road test them. Another test for me is if I can start writing a song immediately on a guitar. This Martin came up used so gonna try it out!
are they both using the same strings, i didn't really love my martin with martin strings I now use elixir strings.. love my Martin
K Carney heck yeah.
Yeah man!! I love my Alvarez after switching to Elixir!! They are so far better than the other strings I’ve used!!
If you ever find yourself in San Diego , go to Taylor and take their factory tour. They have a guitar made from pallet wood that will amaze you as to sound and build quality.
what song is 13:05 its sooooo beautiful..wish i have tabs to it
It's very like the music in the short film "the last three minutes". But probably they r not the same. U can go n check out
Tried to like Martins. Looked for ages but they all sound dull and thunky. I have 4 Taylors and they all provide opportunity to illicit a fuller range than the Martins. I'll keep looking, though. Same thing with a Les Paul and Strat. Tried to find a nice LP and settled on a Tribute but my old Strat is the complete instrument. Just my opinion, of course. Isn't it nice that we're not all the same?
You're exactly right. Martins have a dull sound where Taylors have more crisp character in sound. Idk why people are bashing on the Taylor when it clearly has more character in the sound?
I was once debating on buying the 314ce but i ended up with a Martin GPCPA4R instead. It's the same as this one, but it has east indian rosewood back and sides and white binding around the body. Look it up. It's a sweet guitar.
Chris, they both sound good to me. How did you find the "playability" of each? Did you find one neck to be more comfortable than the other?
The Martin is a Peach ,five *
Anyone have good suggestions for best strings to use for the 314ce? I'm trying to mellow the sound a little. Also which guitar is more reliable? Holds value longer? Is the Taylor neck prone to warp? I am thinking of switching to Martin
Sean Griffith most acoustic don’t hold there value as well as electrics for example a I bought my Martin dcpa4 for about 1500 and I’m selling it for 800 wich is a drop for it being in such good condition, I paid 1500 for my tele and got 1100 for it so yes they don’t hold as well, Taylor necks are great, fast and reliable.
Which strings would best pair up with Martin so that it keeps the bass sound true to what the guitar is meant to give?
santa cruz or lifespns
Which Dow did you use to record the audio
I have a Taylor 314-ce ltd with koa back and sides. Sonic magic!
I own a Taylor. It was my first acoustic. Was looking to get another. Either the 314 or 414ce. I have to admit I think the Martin in this vid sounded better to my ears. Now it’s got me thinking.
The electronics are a clear winner on the Taylor. The electronics on the Martin are reminiscent of the “synthetic” sound I get from my low tier fender acoustic.
Just me two cents, it seems like I had a way harder time getting a good tone to come out of the Martin. It might be I just hate the stock strings on the Martin. Also, I hate the offset fret dots. It looks stupid and will not stand the test of time. 10 years people are going to look at those dots and jut question why Martin ever put them like that.
Note: I own neither of these guitars, so I’m not biased by a purchase of either brand.
Hi , Can you show comparision o Taylor brand acoustic guitar and Martin brand of the same price range in the market but in the range of US$1000? I am planning to buy a good guitar for my lifetime use and I left playing guitar for the last 20 years as I was busy in my medicine practice as a Physician. Now, I am 52 years and I wana start playing guitar again as I feel playing these days. I was music contestant 25 years ago in my college life but now in my retiring phase of my life.
Get A Seagull S6...and you'll have $600 left to save toward your next guitar.
Both sound great my question is this, Are both of this guitars smaller than a dreadnought guitar. The lower bout looks pretty large.
smaller
Taylor just like that bright sound
what happened to the volume at 10:35 it dropped like a rock....
Whew! I thought my TV was cramping out on me. Glad someone else heard it too. I thought I heard it one other time, as well.
I'm a Taylor guy and own a 614ce that is awesome...the Martin harmony sound clearly outperformed Taylor here in the 314ce line...
Eastman E20D compared with Martin DCPA4 Rosewood, any thought? Martin cost about $800 AUD more.
I don't want to say any guitar is necessarily better. However, generally when there is an 800 dollar price difference a guitar will have better volume, playability and tone than the less expensive guitar. Especially a reputable high quality brand like Martin.
@@AlamoMusic Thanks, I appreciate help.
Happy to help!
Which guitar did Chris like playing the most?
I've got 1 of each shown. They each fill a niche for me.
finally a proper review of these guitars
Martin sounds ‘thunky’ to me, and that’s typical imo. Taylor has more high end sheen and the top bracing changes tone a lot when the guitar is played hard. I prefer the Taylor, and own several.
The Taylor definitely has its qualities!
This is an older video, Taylor has developed new V bracing around 2018....not sure exactly but stores have all V bracing models now in 2019 around where I live. Andy Powers I believe is the heir to the Taylor lead designer throne. But the V bracing does change things. You should check it out before making a choice at this point. I am not a Taylor shill, I am a fan of all well made guitars. I had Alvarez guitars before the 2005 takeover by loud technologies.
I can hear notes clearer with Taylor. And it has some kind of bolting neck which makes it winner because maintanence. Martin has darker and more bass(booming) sound. Both are good but I will take Taylor.
But when I really play these winner is which one suits my hand better, so playability how hard is play...
edit. I hear Martin string buzz about 15:10. Players fault or guitar's?
One each please. 🤠 I love the sound of both. The Martin sounds more classic to me and the Taylor has a more modern tone to me. Keep up the great videos. They are all informative.
Martin guitars always sound better playing with fingers. Choosing strings appropriate for the way you play (fingers, pick, etc) will determine whether or not the guitar will perform to its maximum potential.
I bought my GPCPA4 back in 2014. Sadly, discontinued. Because the value for money you get with this guitar is unreal. I was A/B comparing this one to other guitars in the shop. It was blowing away guitars at twice the price.
$1,340 pre-tax back then, it was only the guitars at about $3,000 that started to reach parity. Built-in pick up system, and a hard shell case. A very easy choice: I bought it on the spot … it’s a great all-around guitar.
you have to give HUGE props to Martin for being the first brand to take the idea of building guitars while still promoting Sustainable Development to the premiere standard.
Richlite is FSC Certified, and comes from recycled paper and resin, yet will Last Long and has a similar look and feel to Ebony.
I laughed so hard when a friend of mine said:
"Ahah! But it's not wood from a real tree!"
and I replied:
"hmm, so where does paper come from?"
and he goes:
"cmon man, everyone knows that paper comes from....Ohh....huh..."
"yyeepp"
XD XD XD
Best reaction ever!
You Bless Me
Man. That song at 11:32 on the Taylor to me sounded so much better than on the Martin. It gave me goosebumps when the Taylor was being played and when it switched over, it felt a little washed out on the Martin. The clarity and richness from the Taylor feels nicer to me. I think when they're being played softly, the Taylor sounds much more pleasant, and they both sound great when played loud.
I also thought the next song was far superior on the taylor. The martin kinda sounded gross on that song honestly.
So many similarities and such a similar sound and playablity, it would come down to price for me - Martin GPCA4 should go for 1200 ( I know it MSRP is1,899.00 on the Martin Web site- Taylor 314 CE retails for 1999, but can be purchased for around 1700. Tha'ts 500 more for the Taylor 314CE - not worth the extra money... One thing I do like is the old Fishman F1 pick up and controls on the Martin GPCPA4. Plus it come with a Tuner. Good Demo -thx Randy
Great presentation, thank you!
This vidoe convinced me to buy the Martin GPCPA
Martin all the way I own a hd28 I couldn't live without it. I use to have a Taylor 314 I liked it a lot but my hd kills it
Try plugging both of them in a Acoustic amp. You will know the difference almost instantaneously!! I have owned both guitars.. I am 100% Martin...
dave m taylor’s electronics are so much better than martin tho
This is super helpful even now in 2018.. both are great guitars, but the clarity of the Taylor wins for me. I have a line on this exact Martin but may hold out for the Taylor.. ahh the decisions we face are lucky ones :)
Guild forever!! :O))
What microphone was used?
Hi Goodmorning, I just wanna request you to show the comparision of Taylor brand acoustic guitar and Martin brand of the price range around US$ 1000 but I prefer to dreadnought type. My intention is to play and sing at the same time. So, definitely, I will go for the one which can sound with more Basal tone.
Every time I try to like a Taylor, I'm disappointed. (Though I do like my little GS Mini for what it is). Sterile and lacking organics, IMO. Anything below a *16 model never seems to have the amount of bass I love about Martins.