No joke I honestly believe we are in the Golden Age era for Taylor Guitars. Their guitars are just top-notch when it comes to quality and QC - no matter the price. There is so many options to choose from now between wood combos, body styles, sizes, price ranges, etc. Taylor has it all. I bought a Taylor 114ce as my first guitar about 14 years ago then took a long hiatus till now, and to come back and see how big of a leap they have taken since then is astonishing. I just love how they keep pushing the envelope in terms of innovation and options for the player. Not to mention their work in conservation and sustainability is awesome.
I switched from Taylor's to Gibson's a few years back and never regretted it, recently bought a Martin HD28E and if it weren't for the longer scale length it might be my favorite yet.
Taylor has been absolutely killing it. Their approach of listening to feedback from their players and innovating constantly makes every guitar they make look, sound, and feel better than the previous one. They’re an amazing company that actually cares about their players and their guitars. I’m absolutely in love with my 324ce V-Class. Andy Powers is the GOAT I can’t wait to see what he comes up with next
I'm brand new to guitar. My mentor recommended Taylor. I picked up a GT Urban Ash and it fits me. It's not an import sports car, it's an American made Buick, solid quality.
I have the Gibson G45 generation. It's a great guitar. I just love the simple looks. No bindings and a simple finish. I just love it. Great neck easy to play. The playerport works. And great sound too!
I got g-45 studio but the earlier version without the player port and for 999$ it was an absolute steal... made in Montana all solid wood construction binding on the front (not that I care about it that much) hard case and sounds like and actual Gibson.... still can’t put it down after 2 years of ownership
Check out the Taylor 517 Builders edition. I was at Taylor, picked one up and 2 hours later, was still playing it. I have a few Taylor guitars. They are just so so good. There is one for everybody regardless of experience and style. I also have guitars built by Collings and custom builds. I must say, Taylor produces guitars that one can just dive into and create some very good music that lands, not just heard.. Do it to it!
the gibson has so much more personality! I usually tend to find them too bright, but this one (and your recording, obviously) made it shine! thanks for the the vid!
I played those two at Strait Music in Austin. I liked the Taylor better but not for any of the reasons you gave. That top-side sound port ruins my experience. The sound coming out of it is harsh and "unfinished." I traded off with another customer and we both thought that the Gibson sounded fine unless you were the one playing it. I have briefly owned another guitar with a top-side sound port and my experience was the same. Stop putting extra holes in the guitar unless your name is Willie.
I believe the g-45 is pretty much the old j-15...they recently added the players sound hole on the side. That is pretty stupid to me. I do love all good guitars. Doesn't matter the brand. Martin, Gibson owner, when I bought my martin...I played a taylor and compared 1st.
The thickness of the body is like the recent J 45 Studio, I have a J- 15. It has a thicker body, gloss finish, white binding, black gloss headstock with the gold colored block Gibson logo, an abalone rosette, tortoise shell pickguard in the same shape, and a walnut bridge and fretboard as opposed to the G-45s ebony fretboard and bridge with the same mini grover tuners
Man, Jeremy, you really nailed the specifics of what the differences are in a super informative and knowledgeable way. Your videos rock dude. Keep up the great work in this new year. Loads of prayers for your prosperity and success brother.
Jeremy I just bought a Taylor 324ce and it sounds fantastic but I’m newer. Just wondered your thoughts on it? It’s a beautiful guitar and plays like it too. Thanks for your opinion.
I own one of those! It’s my primary acoustic and by far and away the best guitar I’ve ever owned. Taylors tend to be very bright. But the Tasmanian Blackwood back and sides darken the tone nicely and the Mahogany top gives everything a warmer, more even, slightly compressed sound. The sustain, intonation, and note clarity the V-Class bracing adds is absolutely UNREAL. I always get lost in the sound and end up just playing it for hours. It’s just something you have to hear for yourself and feel in your hands. I even tried a 912ce ($5000+) the same day I bought it and I just fell in love with the darker tone woods much more. Not to mention it’s absolutely beautiful to look at. The dark reddish tint to the wood and black hardware is such a winning combo. If any guitar could ever deserve a perfect score, it’s this one.
@@beamannydanny thanks bro for that nice response. I feel much better about my choice now :) yes it’s like the sound is so crisp and loud. The sustain is amazing. I was torn between the 314ce and that one and that’s why I had to ask.😀
Everything you've said about fit and finish is true for both and Taylor wins there, but I actually prefer the sound of the G45. The Taylor sound more constricted and compressed. Just my opinion from playing both and listening to your demo here.
@@gazzat7309 enlighten us! I know what my ear hears and Im not the only one! Lots of experienced players are complaining about the Taylors since they went to VBracing. Look around you... Do you see any of the pros playing a Taylor now? They cookie cut and oversaturate the market. I do see the pros playing Martins and Gibsons. I bought ever Taylor they made until 2018 before Powers changed them to the V Bracing. Ive owned an 814ce, 712ce, 612ce and a 612 12 fret, 412, 410, 314, 214,ce, 224 koa, 214ce deluxe, 214 Plus, GS mini Rosewood, GS mini Koa, GS mini Maple Bass, Big Baby and a Baby Taylor. Im done with Taylor! The Gibson sound is like no other on the planet! It has a growl to it like nothing else. But you've got to get a good Gibson bc Gibson is known for flaws bc they are hand made. Gibson's are killer and they are "Bad Ass" looking guitars! I own a Sheryl Crow Country Western Supreme, there is a 300 make limit on it and I doubt it will get there. Only 60 so far have been made. I own, a 50's J45 that is killer, LG2 and a Hummingbird standard. Currently waiting on my local store, Willcutt Guitars to get in an L00 with an addy top. I 've never had a Martin I didn't have to modify therefore they don't work well for me. I do like the Martin CEO7. Its killer but the neck is not comfy for me.
Taylors are very articulate instruments for precision players dave gilmour used one on his live concert dvd, their more for the musical conasuer in the same way great classical guitars are therefore their not like your gibson which are great guitars but again gibson is an old fashioned sound it's the sound of the 50s that you just don't get from other guitars and the gibson sound contributed so much of the 70s bands and 70s sound also the sg ACDC, the j45 the Beatles, the J200 Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan Nashville Skyline etc but as much as its still a great guitar it's sound has been played to death and you won't stand out enough today in the music industry by producing your sound via the gibson, Taylors are ment to be played in conjunction with other types of guitar played together, the new taylor v bracing is clarity all over the board were notes suck on the x bracing guitar they are great on the v class, taylor genuinely have brought us to new horizons it's not a marketing ploy the Academy series is about inviting the people to play music, if you watch the videos from Andy powers and others you come to understand that taylors main objective is to provide all with a great instrument built to the highest standards but most importantly at an affordable price point, if you think that's impossible go check out the Taylor pallet guitar on here, it's made of old shipping pallets 25 we're made and they sell for no less than 20 thousand dollars each.
I know this is an oldie, but Taylor seem to have stopped using ovangkol; their most recent AD guitars have walnut back and sides, which I guess is readily available as it's a North American hardwood. It could be that they were using up the ovangkol that perhaps didn't make the grade for their former 400 series, which may be why they started using Indian rosewood on that series.
The Taylor AD17 has a longer scale length (25.5") than the Gibson (24.75"). This is kind of important. With the same strings and the same player, I hear more harmonic content from the Taylor and it sounds nicer.
I bought an AD17e Blacktop because it just sounded better than anything else at that price point. I tried several AD17s but mine stood out - and to the doubters out there, it has significantly more bass than my Gibson J-45.
@@JeremySheppard It sounds a whole lot like mine, just played better! Seriously though, I have (like you) a scary number of guitars, but this is the one that gets the compliments when I'm doing gigs
I want that Taylor AD series!! Haha 😅 but seriously...I did get a great deal with the Gibson G45 they released in 2019, without the soundport in the side. That has a hard case, and smells like walnut and vanilla (just an added bonus). That guitar sounds better than the G45s they re-released last year, and I got it for about $300 less too! The finish feels really nice too 🙂. I think you're right--the Taylor American-made for $1500 is a great deal, but I think I made out all right with my 2019 Gibson G45 😉. Love the videos by the way!
@@gazzat7309 yeah, I used to think that. Then I started collecting every brand of instrument, and the different methods and woods are all so interesting!
I was interested in a Gibson J-185 EC last summer. While I was researching a guitar for potential purchase I came across a Taylor 314 CE limited. Sitka Spruce Torrified top with Sapele back and sides. The price point was within a $100 of the two. After careful deliberation I decided to take a chance and let go of tradition and give the Taylor a try. Seven months later I have no regrets! It’s like 50 First Dates! Every time I look at it and pick it up I fall in love all over again! Sorry Gibson………
I just don't rely on the sound, but in the overall quality of the guitar. Sound quality may change overtime due to wear and tear. I love the innovative value added on taylor guitars. Only the best quality guitars can actually preserve the best quality there is...
On another note Jeremy you are 100% correct that this American Dream Taylor’s are super well made! Taylor’s are superior in QC period! Like your vids bro 👊🏻
Did I hear some "Acuff-Rose" by Uncle Tupelo in there? Down the road, I'd love to hear your take on the new version of the J-45 that Epiphone's doing (or the Hummingbird, or the J-200 in that same line). That seems to be the place where the Gibson company is trying to make a serious play at a value-for-money intermediate acoustics.
Just listening, I thought you played the Taylor first and was trying not to be biased because I've been thinking about getting an AD-17. Now I might get the G45 Gibson instead. Innovation is nice and all and I've tried to like the v-class bracing, but there is a reason everyone used X bracing for decades.
I’m a Martin guy and always will be. That being said I went to Sam ash a few weeks back. I’ll tell right now, the AD17 is imo one of the best sounding and playing guitars for the money out there. For under $2000 to get an American made Taylor is a steal
i own a Martin and Seagull guitar. I was interested in your comparison. I think they both sounded good, but the Gibson just rings out so much more......nice bass response too. Taylor sounded good but darker. Great videos....keep up the great work.
Despite the fact that Gibson moved away from the WINNING J15 and now have even managed to downgrade the G45 🤷♂️ it still has a “Gibson” sound which is distinguishable. Since I’ve owned a Ovangkol Martin and currently have a Gibson J15 in my collection I like to think I have some experience on the subject. I don’t like Ovangkol lol it sounds like a wannabe Rosewood but it’s more muddy maybe some will like it for it’s charm but the overtones are A LOT for me personally. So sonically I give the W to Gibson. Looks wise I like that AD17 a lot but wish it came in Sapele or Mahogany.
Dang dude . . . way to pick a fight! Whew! I had an opportunity to spend pretty much as much as I wanted for a new guitar. Had always wanted a Taylor (been playing for 40+ years) and went shopping for something new, didn’t want to limit myself to a Taylor, and set a budget of $4K and under. I tried all of the Taylors that I could find and loved the feel of playing them but could not get the bass response that I wanted like I could with a Martin. The Martin that I loved the sound of was $10K. I really don’t play well enough to justify that amount nor do I need a $10K+ guitar. Ended up getting and returning a few guitars until I found an all Walnut (front/back/sides) Taylor 724CE at Guitar Center. Oh my gosh, it looks beautiful, sounds amazing, and plays like a dream. This is a guitar that makes me smile when I look at it and when I play it. It has the crisp highs that Taylors are known for and has a warm deep bass. Based on my limited experience shopping for guitars I would agree with you, for the price/value, you can probably find a Taylor with the sound you want at a much better price then a comparable Martin, and for me the Taylors are so easy to play. All of that being said, play the guitar you can afford and that feels good to you. I started on a Sears Silvertone, played it for years before getting my Alvarez. It’s better than doing nothing, not everyone can play so embrace it.
I've been playing guitar for 52 years. I own Martins, Taylors and Guild. All American-made guitars. My go-to guitars? Seagulls. Best value for the dollar and regardless of series, hold their own in sound quality against the "big boys." As far as the Taylor vs. Gibson, the Taylor had a more focused sound. The Gibson was muddy. Guess that's why I never bought a Gibson acoustic, (love their electrics, though).
I have the ORIGINAL G45. They stopped making it and put out this cheaper version you are reviewing. My G45 is bound back and front with electronic pickup. totally different guitar.
Never in my life did I think I'd say that I preferred a Taylor over a Gibson. I'm saying here, now (between these two only). The Taylor had a depth that the Gibson G-45 didn't have, and surprised me. Every Taylor I've ever picked up sounded thin. The Taylor you just played was surprisingly thick (substance), which I prefer. I may pick one up. Appreciate the insights here.
I went to buy a G45 and the store manager said you mean a J-45… So I walked out with a J-45 !!! No comparison and I still have yet to play a Taylor of any sorts that blows me away !!! It’s not happening folks … Nothing for nothing but every Taylor I have played sounded good and ok but not wow!!! That’s not to say every Gibson or Martin sounds amazing either but they do have models that are wow !!! Martin, been around for almost 200 years and Gibson for over 100…. I think Taylor still has some maturing to do …
@@Itsme-vd3dx Right. At that time I’ve never played either and then played them both side by side . So , the GC store manager was right . Although , I was looking to spend $1000 to $1200 , lol… Next thing I know I’m looking at a $2800 guitar… He did hook me up though, gave me a nice discount, so that’s how I wound up with the J-45 standard vintage sunburst which looks absolutely amazing I might add.
@@supermarioxs1 Good choice mate. If you think of it in a long term, its no money. I have a j45 vintage from 2015. Its so good that I sold all my other guitars.
From what I've seen it's actually a $400 difference in price ($1199 vs. $1599), but I agree the Taylor is very much worth that, assuming one can fit that into their budget. I recently shopped some guitars at a national chain showroom (rhymes with Cam Sash) and came across a J45 Studio on display where the workmanship was visibly pathetic. Glue everywhere inside, wires undressed on the electronics, bracing apparently sculpted with an ax, and that's on the $2000 version. I can only imagine how much worse it might be on a $1199 G45. By the same token, I couldn't find one flaw in any Taylor I picked up, including the very modestly priced Academy series. And they just play beeee-uuu-tifully, as you demonstrated on the video so well. Great review.
Taylor’s are robotically made with far higher tolerances in the manufacturing process. Gibsons will never have the same fit and finish if not made this way. However, over all some how Gibsons all have a warmer sound.
I have four Taylors (512, 555, T-5, GS mini), a Martin M-36 and an OM sized guitar I built. I stopped into a Guitar Center a while back just to check out what was there, particularly interested in the new GT size Taylor. I was the only person in the guitar room, so spent a while sampling, including some $3,000+ guitars. In the end, I found myself especially drawn to and enjoying the AD series guitar. It not only holds its own against similarly priced guitars, but by sound and feel, really is a joy to play along side of some premium level guitars. I think you have nailed it with your enthusiasm about this guitar. I also really appreciate their focus on sustainable woods for their guitars.
I have a Gibson songwriter which I've had strings replaced and lowered trying to increase playability. I almost returned my Martin d18 before the truss rod was tweaked and Elixir strings put on. Playability is #1. What good is a guitar that everyone says sounds good if it's hard, or no fun to play? Every Taylor I have, including my Taylor AD17E BLK plays well out of the box. AD17 and D18 are played above others. The Gibson sounds good but isn't as forgiving as others.
Taylor make a good guitar but I don't care much for the sound of a Taylor. Just a personal preference. I would get a Gibson over a Taylor. My favorite guitar sound is a Martin D-28 or even a D-18. Or even one of their 000 sized guitars. Again, just my preference.
This review is spot on! I have both a Gibson G-45 and Taylor 214ce. The G-45 and the finish has warn badly around the soundhole in less than 2 years, my Taylor 214 the finish is almost 10 years old and has stood up perfectly. Granted the Taylor 214 is a higher quality than the AD17 but I paid the same money for it new. The Gibson G-45 is easier to play I will give its kudos there. Overall if given the choice Taylor is definitely the guitar of choice.
Question,, I bought a used Taylor GT e urban ash and have had it for a week,, well today is the last day I can return it for a full store credit and they have a Taylor 326ce and I’m thinking of trading up,, any advise would be great,, hope it’s in time. Thanks. Love watching your channel
The 326 is a big step up, if it makes sense and you don't have to borrow to do it, maybe go for it. Make sure it's good for you, your plan, your family and your world.
A Gibson headstock on a Gibson guitar is... Clickbait? LOL I have a Gibson G-45 from 2020, when they still had binding, and they weren't putting that weird hole in the side. Sounds awesome, flawless fit and finish. Got it for less than a grand. Don't know about these new ones.
HI Jeremy, I love your videos and channel in general. This partly got me interested in getting a guitar. I was really interested in the Taylor 214 CE Dlx, but eventually purchased the Taylor Urban Ash GT. It came with the Arrow (spelling?) and its great.
Both sound good. I think the Gibson sounded better. More nuances to my ear. Taylor was very compressed to me. One demo sounded like cover me up by Jason Isbell
I don't know what everyone's listening on here, but I listened with the Shure headphones that I use for tracking and I think that they both sound really nice. The Gibson has more of a wood sound to me and I love that while the Taylor has more of a bright mid range that has energy, but that varies on each with what is being played. Sometimes the Gibson had as much bright mids as the Taylor. Where it is strummed or picked was making a difference here too. I thought that on most things the performances sounded more comfortable and accurate on the Gibson, but all of the playing was good on both guitars. One other point; this range isn't just for beginners. This range is also for advanced players, semi pros and pros who might need an acoustic guitar for a song or two and don't want to spend $2000 or $3000 on an acoustic guitar that's a secondary instrument for them. It's always best to play them yourself and see what works best for you.
@@R.L.Humpert I guess we all have an opinion and personal experience. I have played Gibson electric guitars for decades. I have owned guitars (electric and acoustic) made by other great manufacturers through that time as well and I liked most of those guitars but I am down to 2 Gibson Les Pauls now and a really beat up Ibanez couch guitar that I got for dirt cheap. I have experienced only good from Gibson, but again, everyone needs to find their own connection with an instrument. What guitar best allows you to express your ideas, style and talent? That is all that matters and it's absolutely personal. I'd probably be happy with either of the guitars in this video. Each one would bring out different elements of what I play so each one would probably influence what I write on them differently and that expands creativity, so it's probably bet to get both if you can!
The Gibson sounded better. Also, there’s just something about looking through the sound hole and seeing a tone bar on an angle on the Taylor that is just wrong. Maybe I’ve been looking at too many Martins and Gibsons.
The commentary is even more relevant for the Taylor academy series. They offer great value for money, and the compromise between the building quality and material is well balanced.
Jeremy, aesthetically speaking I think the Taylor wins. However, most people won’t buy a black spruce top, and to my ears the Gibson sounded great and was less money. Martin I feel would beat both in terms of the topics you discussed. Thanks for the video.
I don't think Taylor guitars in are so much one flavor anymore. (Sound-wise) Providing variations makes sense. Taylor guitars have always been well-made. They have been on the brighter side, sound-wise. Now, that's not so much the case. Aiming to please a broader range of players means they may be selling more guitars. Why have multiple guitars if they all sound alike?
I really love your videos Jeremy, and I understand what you are saying about innovation and adding value.....but finally it comes down to sound for me, and the sound of the Gibson is so much better (to me)....
Taylor came out with the American Dream line during the 1st shut down because they had certain materials and decided to make guitars. The shape is the Taylor Grand Pacific, a design to make a guitar sound like old recordings. Had tried a Gibson G, and didn't like the neck. Those D'Addario NB strings bring out the bass. I'm aiming for a Taylor AD22E. In the meantime, get me a used Martin CEO-7.
Just based on this demo, the Gibson sounds brighter/crisper to me, which I prefer. I like the Taylor 214ce but this one sounds a little “midrangey” or muffled to me.
on another youtube channel someone cut the gibson open and found a horrible mess inside...glue everywhere, improper brace finishing, etc. Did the same to a Taylor and it was pristine. Gibson is just farming out mass produced guitars without quality control, while Taylor made a much more gradual and careful entry into that area.
I agree on everything you said and in my opinion the Taylor sounds much better than the Gibson as well. However, I was surprised to hear the small price difference between the two, because here in Europe that difference is significantly larger. Approximately 1100 euro for the Gibson G-45 against 1600 euro for the AD17 and 1900 (!!! - don't ask why) for the AD17e. So for the beginning guitar player who wants to start on a fairly good guitar from a major brand, but doesn't want to overdo it, the Gibson could be within reach, while the Taylor would be too much to ask for. But there's something else I don't understand. I was (and still am) the happy owner of a J-45. When the first version of the G-45 came out they were great value for your money. Especially the Studio version. I bought the G-45 Studio for 884 euro (!!!). For this amount of money you had a wonderful looking hardcase, an LR Baggs PU-system, a faux tortoise shell pickguard (much more appealing) and you didn't have that cheap and ridiculously looking extra hole on the side of the guitar. In my opinion that was what you'd call 'bang for the buck'. I bought it because it looked cool (I don't mind the lack of binding - my favorite guitar is the 00-15m), it was relatively inexpensive, certainly for an all solid wood guitar, and I wanted to experiment with a dropped C tuning. I couldn't afford a guitar that would cost me 3 or 4 times this price and risk the chance of finding out that a dropped C tuning wasn't my thing. And I wouldn't risk spending 1900 euro for something like this either. And, lucky me, the G-45 Studio works really well in a dropped C tuning. But now, with all the changes they made on the new G-45 and the ridiculous price, I would've gone for other options. In this comparison the Taylor is the clear winner for me.
I understand that appreciate your perspective and thoughts on these two guitars. However, listening through headphones, I personally prefer the Gibson. It was warm, rich and full. The Taylor was okay but very bright and very tenor overall.
@@angelg8445 Unless you plan on hanging it on the wall as a decoration, sound is the most important factor in selecting an instrument. The G45 sounded better to me as well.
@@shawnsnow6413 the boys at driftwood cut that open, its really poorly made and SLOPPY. Its your choice and YMMV but that guitar wont play well, or stay together its a cash grab from Gibson
One of things I don’t like about Taylor is they are always changing their line-up. I bought a 618e and no sooner had I bought it they completely changed that model. I felt like I was stuck with a somewhat obsolete model.
I've been intrigued with the v bracing although I have not played very many of them. The taylor had a bit more low end than i usually expect. It was more martinish in a way. It would be more helpful to play the same licks to see the difference vs different licks. As much as i like gibson guitars their budget guitars feel cheap and the various models they made in recent years have strayed from the gibson sound. Thats why people want a gibson. Nothing sounds like a j45 or a j200. Thats always been the selling point. They are just so iconic. Taylor though is so out of the box the one thing you can count on is repeated quaity
I just purchased a Taylor 912 CE and the very first time I picked it up it was a little bit uncertain and thought I had wasted $5k. Boy was I wrong! After several weeks now it's settled in and I'm settled in with it!
Lookin to add a walnut back and sides guitar to my collection. I like the g45 but am concerned about it being satin finished. Pros/ cons of g45 vs j45 studio?
Check out driftwood’s breakdown , the finish is terrible, the bracing is sub par. They just don’t seem like quality instruments. If you spend 1000$ get a Larrivee, Eastman or used 15 series Martin. The satin finish can be done well by Larrivee.
Uh, with the different woods that they are both using to kind of keep production costs down,both guitars to me anyway sound chime-y & resonant. To me they are similar tone wise and they are relatively punchy & the electronics for a cost cutter is definitely a plus. So the quality of the the build on the Taylor puts it over the top I guess,sorry I m a Gibson guy though, they are dealing with some quality control issues right now that I think they are getting in line?
I played the Gibson G-45 at the Gibson garage in Nashville and really liked it. It is short scale and the Taylor is not which is why the Taylor sounded deeper and thicker. When I think Taylor I think cutaway. I’m a Martin guy and have that tone in my head which cuts out taylor unless I wanted a cutaway. I would easily go for the G45 over the ad17 because of price and I did like the tone holes. It was very easy to play too.
Excellent review, Jeremy. Driftwood reviewed the new series of Gibsons and found issued in the bracing and glue squeeze-out. Your points are excellent.
I have played some disappointing Gibsons, as well as some inspiring, life-affirming great ones. I have never played a bad Taylor - their quality control is notable. However, with one exceptiion (a top-of-the-line 12 string) I have never played a Taylor that I couldn't put back on the rack and walk out of the store without it. I can definitely live without the ported bouts on the Gibson. Having said that, we have to acknowledge that a guitar purchase is to a large extent subjective. Which feels best under my hands? Which give me the sound I want to hear? Ultimately your best guitar is where you find it, no matter who makes it.
Sounds to me that the Taylor would cut through for someone who wanted to busk or do small gigs where there's a lot of low level noise. As a long, long time guitar player I want binding on a guitar and I'll pay the extra for it.
I prefer the open chords on the Gibby overall. Finger style sounds decent on the Taylor. Both tend to thud and clank. I guess that's what you get that at this price point.
If you pause the video at 6.05 you can actually see the V Brace on the Taylor coming through the top. It’s seems to me that all the V brace guitars have a slight lump or bump on the top lower portion of the guitar. I’ve just bought a K14ce Builders Edition 2021 model and it had the slight lump on the top. I then went and felt a lot of the V bracing guitars and they all have similar lumps of bumps. The X brace versions do not. There’s enough people concerned about it that Bob Taylor’s done a video addressing it (called “Bob explains telegraphing” or something) and it’s to do with changes in humidity apparently. But my guess is it’s not flat at the factory (which is held around 50% or so), which is also the same as my room with my guitar …. Yet there’s a bump. I suppose the 10 year warranty helps alleviate concerns but still it’s a bit odd ….
I also have a new Gibson G00 which I replaced a Martin 00X2e with as a travel guitar. It’s sounds great. If I’m honest it sounds every bit as good as the Martin though I still think I’d prefer it without the sound port. Yes I can hear a difference with the sound port vs the Martin but I can’t determine if it’s better or worse tonality but it is definitely louder for the player with it. Aesthetically I’d prefer the sold sides anyway. Not sure why Gibson went with it. If Taylor had done an AD GC sized guitar for around £1k I’d have probably have gone for it though
I don't have a dog in this fight, but it sure seems like there is pre-biased judgment at work here. The Gibson has a freaking sound hole cut in the side -- but you bash it for not "innovating"? And it's 000 depth in a SS dread shape, also innovative. Taylor's AD formula is also cost-cutting -- the open-pore finish, the rough textures, the unconventional and streaky fretboard/headstock wood, the lack of binding, the soft case. And it's hundreds of dollars more than the Gibson. Having played them both, I agree that the Taylor has a couple more quality touches, like the headstock inlay and the smoother fretboard edges. Taylors are always nicely turned out. On the other hand, the Gibson has a legit dovetail neck joint. The sound quality is a tossup. So there's a lot to like, and some tradeoffs to note, in both guitars, which makes your one-sided review a real head-scratcher.
The Taylor sounds very treble heavy which is almost seperated from the bass end, didn't sound balanced to me. Preferred the overall balance of the Gibson, more mids.
I one of those new people. I started about 4 months ago. I did make a mistake I bought a cheap Squire Dread on Amazon. But sine I have added 2 more both Martin Dreadnoughts and they are awesome. Love playing them even though I'm not any good but I will keep at it everyday and I keep searching for that perfect tone ; ) Its so crazy I lived in El Cajon for 3 years and never knew about Taylors lol.
They both sound decent. I'm surprised there isn't more cherry used in guitars like these (or guitars in general). I prefer the tone over walnut personally.
I always recommend Taylors because of their build quality and versatility. They’re amazing with alternate chords and tunings because they’re more complex and articulate. There’s a reason jazz guys love Taylors. If you can’t afford an all solid Taylor, look at Seagull’s Artist Mosaic line. That said, I do love Martins and Gibsons for their simpler woody tone, but the build quality can really let you down.
Great video. I agree with you on Gibson's race to the bottom line. One thing I would add, is Taylor is crazy consistent in their quality. I can go into any guitar store and take any new Taylor off the wall, and it will be set up well, and play well. With Gibson, if I can find one I like, I know Im going to need a set up, and that's after playing 10 of them to find one I like. If you don't like the sound of a Taylor, that's fine, but you cannot argue with their quality and innovation. I have a martin, eastman and taylor and love them all, but Taylor has really been the innovator. Even Martin has basically copied Taylor with their latest bolt on neck cutaway models.
Off topic but a Martin D-15m all the way. $1349. Open gear tuners, bone nut/saddle and hard shell case. It’s not a slope shoulder but that’s what I’d pick.
Jeremy I usually agree with you 100%. However, in this case I only partially agree. I’ve played the Taylor. It is a WONDERFUL guitar and amazing for the money. I will buy one sometime this year. But as to the Gibson, I purchased the non ported version last year and couldn’t get rid of it fast enough. It had no soul and just seemed cheap in my hands. I did NOT enjoy playing it and never thought I would say that about a Gibson. Very sad to me. The race to the bottom…. To me a $1200 Eastman feels/sounds better. But your videos are GREAT, and so enlightening, even to an old dude like me. Thank you for what you do.
@@JeremySheppard I agree with Zachariah, great information in the demo but the excessive compression made it difficult to listen to. Even your voice is squashed like crazy. There are plenty of open and dynamic recordings on RUclips. Maybe something in the settings?
Thanks for the great video - think I'll subscribe! Really enjoyed your assessment. Both sounded pretty good to me on my bose desktop speakers, but I did lean significantly to the Taylor. But I'm largely a Taylor guy. I've got two 714's that I dearly love. But I try not to be too brand biased. I've definitely played some wonderful guitars from most of the other brands. And I've got a wonderful sounding '74 Giannini dread that I've had since '74 - brazilian rosewood! Again, thanks for the quality video.
@@mt-nv4jd You know, it's kind of funny. I've got a 2020 and a 2002 - and I literally go back and forth between which one I like the tone of better. I've decided that the 20 has better clarity and the 02 has better warmth. Most of my buddies like the '02 better and I like the '20 better . . . but I'm truly not sure how much of that is my subconscious remembering the dent in my wallet for the new one : )
Great video J. May I ask if you process your audio in any way (eq., compression, reverb, etc.) . I understand your ribbon microphone choice but wondered about minor processing for RUclips . I need some help with my own acoustic guitar recording. As much as I'd prefer to remain faithful to the guitar, sometimes the real world of acoustic recording requires tweaking. Thanks bubba.
Gibson still have a long way to go to match quality to price. I have a 2008 Les Paul where all four knobs have split in half and fallen off. Determined to buy a really nice acoustic I went to Andertons (UK). The young sales guy was very helpful and I tried all manner of Gibson acoustics. whilst comparing them to cheaper guitars like Epiphones. Nothing stood out. The young sales guy took me to the back of the shop and introduced me to Taylor acoustics. I had never heard of them but was hugely impressed by the finish, tone and how they played. Long story short - I bought a Taylor 414ce-R. The Les Paul sits in it's case until I figure out what to do about the knobs.
I wouldn't be interested in either of those guitars, however what you said about your guitar as an extension of your personal and artistic expression , that's good stuff and so true, well done.
One of the biggest differences that you didn’t mention is that the Gibson has a shorter scale length. The longer scale length of the Taylor is more like a Martin, which also made round-shouldered dreadnoughts way back when.
Scale length is for me the primary factor in choosing a guitar type. Most people don't seem to notice it very much, even shop owners. I prefer the shorter scale, anything from 24.75 to 25.0. To me it usually sounds preferable, more mellow and less aggressive, less aesthetics/left hand noises. Easier to play. Of the two here, I'd still take the Taylor. That Gibson sucks. I pretty much have to be blown away to buy something from Gibson, Taylor, or Martin. You get an unbound guitar with kind of anemic looking woods for around 1400 dollars. It's just brand slavery.
2 things we all know, or should, if you own a Gibson youll never have to Google what Country its made in and you'll never have to Google is it a solid body guitar, if you own one its both or you dont own a Gibson. unfortunately you cant say the same for the latter 😬
There's about a 5 year stretch of Canadian made acoustic guitars. Also, hundreds of thousands of chibson clones made in China. If you have a Gibson, you can spend a lot of time wondering if it's made in the USA. 😂
@JeremySheppard GIBSON guitars are ALL made in the US. They have a budget line, branded Epiphone, that is made in Asia. But any guitar from China with the Gibson logo is a fake. I havent come across a Solid Body fake, would be cool to see. If someone's dumb enough to drop a few thousand not knowing whether it's real or a fake, then I guess they deserve it, I've yet to see Sam Ash or Guitar center sell Fake Gibsons
@@JeremySheppard Big Difference between China/Korea/Mexico than our Brothers/Sisters in Canada 😆, thats a BiG Looooooong stretch you probably of been better off not mentioning that LOL But FYI Gibson bought the Nova Scotia-based Garrison guitars and then converted Garrison’s factory into making dreadnought and OM models - Garrison Guitars was a guitar manufacturing company originally founded by Chris Griffiths in Canada in 1999. The company was bought out by Gibson for 3 years from 2007 to 2010 when Gibson officially closed Garrison for good...
I’ve never liked Taylor but they are winning me over, their newer guitar like the grand pacific look & sound fantastic, I’m very intrigued & thinking hard about buying a Taylor; the Gibson just doesn’t look like a quality instrument, the top especially looks cheap
Good lord. I have owned lots of high in Taylors. 910, 810, 812, 814, 710, 512, 510, Cujo Taylor, Cowboy Taylor. I have one left, a 1993 810. Mostly Taylors are boring to me. They can sound very good, but often are just blah.The 1993 910 with Cindy inlaysnI had was the best of them all and I wish I still had that one. It had bass and balance and could hang with just about any Martin. The pink poodle hand made case was stunning too. During my ownership of Taylors, the early Taylors were much better in construction and tone.1989-1995 or 96 were the best in my opinion. Taylor started "cutting corners" as you put it on woods, neck construction, case quality, etc. You did not compare cost on these guitars. The Taylor ($1949) is about 60% more expensive than the Gibson ($1199). This is not apples to apples. Why is Gibson using some traditional features on an entry level guitar a gimmick for you? The straight rectangular bridge and a basic pickguard look at home on a J-45 slope shoulder Gibson body. Why isn't painting the wood on the Taylor top to look like/be fake top binding a gimmick? I thought both guitars sounded equally good in your demo. Yes, Gibson finishes can be variable. That has always been an issue. However, by the time that G-45 is played and beat up over the years, who cares? Have you ever seen a Taylor with Mojo? With a played through top? I am sure there are some, but very rare in my experience. I currently have a lot of Gibson made acoustics. Each has tons of personality, 1970 SJ, 1950 CF 100, 1967 Hummingbird, 1967 Epiphone Frontier with Lariat pickguard, early 60s LGO, 1967 SJ. They all have personality for days. I think Taylors sound very good and are consistent. But I have only experienced a few Taylors that sounded GREAT. I would order a Taylor online before I would order a vintage or new Gibson. However, in my opinion, the best Gibsons have a much greater high end potential than the best Taylors as far as sound.
The Gibson had a more ringing voice on my headphones More chime so to speak. I am not impressed their rush to production style. Quality suffers. Do not care for the port as much either. Actually the earlier G series was a better done series. And wasn't gimmicky. Although the sound of the Taylor was somewhat compressed, it still was clear. It was dressed to impress and has a look of quality.. Nice comparison. Don't want either of them but a very useful video.for those in the market.
I would have to hear them in person unmiced, before I passed judgment, but the Gibson to my ear wasn't as loud but it had a better frequency range. The Taylor is louder, but substain of the guitar seems to accent the aftertones to the point that the secondary is overaccented. Makes the top end sound loose. I prefer a more balanced sound. The Taylor sounded alright finger picked.
But there is more or less 600 dollars in price difference between the two, which at this end of the market is a lot... I am sure that in this price bracket there are more pertinent choices than the Gibson, but it will probably made overseas.
Your G45 is not the same as the first G45's. I have a G45 for 2020. Mine is the studio version, it has binding on the top but not the back. It has a pick up system. Mine doesn't have a hole in the side. It came with a hard case.
RUclips just showed me your video and well I guess I could be counted into this 16 million. First attempt with a Squier BulletStrat but never really took it serious. Now it's more serious with even a Teacher and my collection expanded slightly The BulletStrat heavily modified Harley Benton SC550 II Ibanez SEW761 But coming more to your topic I should also mention the acoustics. First one a Taylor Baby BT2 Mahogany Second, since two days posting this. Taylor 114e Seems I'm quite focused on one brand and I love Taylor.
@@JeremySheppard Well could be better, to bad that I didn't start as kid. Would have had way more time after school to practice. Now with a life as employee there isn't that much time left but there is progress and this is the important thing. Guess learning is not a sprint but a marathon.
Interesting....on your video, the Gibson sounds a lot better, despite the open tuning used on the Taylor, which sounds, well, not tinny, but thinner and cheaper sounding. Nice playing btw 👍
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
No joke I honestly believe we are in the Golden Age era for Taylor Guitars. Their guitars are just top-notch when it comes to quality and QC - no matter the price. There is so many options to choose from now between wood combos, body styles, sizes, price ranges, etc. Taylor has it all. I bought a Taylor 114ce as my first guitar about 14 years ago then took a long hiatus till now, and to come back and see how big of a leap they have taken since then is astonishing. I just love how they keep pushing the envelope in terms of innovation and options for the player. Not to mention their work in conservation and sustainability is awesome.
I switched from Taylor's to Gibson's a few years back and never regretted it, recently bought a Martin HD28E and if it weren't for the longer scale length it might be my favorite yet.
Taylor has been absolutely killing it. Their approach of listening to feedback from their players and innovating constantly makes every guitar they make look, sound, and feel better than the previous one. They’re an amazing company that actually cares about their players and their guitars. I’m absolutely in love with my 324ce V-Class. Andy Powers is the GOAT I can’t wait to see what he comes up with next
I'm brand new to guitar. My mentor recommended Taylor. I picked up a GT Urban Ash and it fits me. It's not an import sports car, it's an American made Buick, solid quality.
What strings have you got on the AD17e? Sounds nice, I just bought the Taylor blacktop. Lovely lovely guitar.
I have the Gibson G45 generation. It's a great guitar. I just love the simple looks. No bindings and a simple finish. I just love it. Great neck easy to play. The playerport works. And great sound too!
I got g-45 studio but the earlier version without the player port and for 999$ it was an absolute steal... made in Montana all solid wood construction binding on the front (not that I care about it that much) hard case and sounds like and actual Gibson.... still can’t put it down after 2 years of ownership
Check out the Taylor 517 Builders edition. I was at Taylor, picked one up and 2 hours later, was still playing it. I have a few Taylor guitars. They are just so so good. There is one for everybody regardless of experience and style. I also have guitars built by Collings and custom builds. I must say, Taylor produces guitars that one can just dive into and create some very good music that lands, not just heard.. Do it to it!
the gibson has so much more personality! I usually tend to find them too bright, but this one (and your recording, obviously) made it shine!
thanks for the the vid!
I played those two at Strait Music in Austin. I liked the Taylor better but not for any of the reasons you gave. That top-side sound port ruins my experience. The sound coming out of it is harsh and "unfinished." I traded off with another customer and we both thought that the Gibson sounded fine unless you were the one playing it. I have briefly owned another guitar with a top-side sound port and my experience was the same. Stop putting extra holes in the guitar unless your name is Willie.
same! too small a world!....just got my taylor gsmini at strait in austin!
I believe the g-45 is pretty much the old j-15...they recently added the players sound hole on the side. That is pretty stupid to me. I do love all good guitars. Doesn't matter the brand. Martin, Gibson owner, when I bought my martin...I played a taylor and compared 1st.
The thickness of the body is like the recent J 45 Studio, I have a J- 15. It has a thicker body, gloss finish, white binding, black gloss headstock with the gold colored block Gibson logo, an abalone rosette, tortoise shell pickguard in the same shape, and a walnut bridge and fretboard as opposed to the G-45s ebony fretboard and bridge with the same mini grover tuners
Man, Jeremy, you really nailed the specifics of what the differences are in a super informative and knowledgeable way. Your videos rock dude. Keep up the great work in this new year. Loads of prayers for your prosperity and success brother.
Jeremy I just bought a Taylor 324ce and it sounds fantastic but I’m newer. Just wondered your thoughts on it? It’s a beautiful guitar and plays like it too. Thanks for your opinion.
I own one of those! It’s my primary acoustic and by far and away the best guitar I’ve ever owned. Taylors tend to be very bright. But the Tasmanian Blackwood back and sides darken the tone nicely and the Mahogany top gives everything a warmer, more even, slightly compressed sound. The sustain, intonation, and note clarity the V-Class bracing adds is absolutely UNREAL. I always get lost in the sound and end up just playing it for hours. It’s just something you have to hear for yourself and feel in your hands. I even tried a 912ce ($5000+) the same day I bought it and I just fell in love with the darker tone woods much more. Not to mention it’s absolutely beautiful to look at. The dark reddish tint to the wood and black hardware is such a winning combo. If any guitar could ever deserve a perfect score, it’s this one.
@@beamannydanny thanks bro for that nice response. I feel much better about my choice now :) yes it’s like the sound is so crisp and loud. The sustain is amazing. I was torn between the 314ce and that one and that’s why I had to ask.😀
Everything you've said about fit and finish is true for both and Taylor wins there, but I actually prefer the sound of the G45. The Taylor sound more constricted and compressed. Just my opinion from playing both and listening to your demo here.
Diamond in the rough, or nice shiny turd
You clearly know nothing about v bracing 😂
Also the es2 sucks
@@gazzat7309 enlighten us! I know what my ear hears and Im not the only one! Lots of experienced players are complaining about the Taylors since they went to VBracing. Look around you... Do you see any of the pros playing a Taylor now? They cookie cut and oversaturate the market. I do see the pros playing Martins and Gibsons. I bought ever Taylor they made until 2018 before Powers changed them to the V Bracing. Ive owned an 814ce, 712ce, 612ce and a 612 12 fret, 412, 410, 314, 214,ce, 224 koa, 214ce deluxe, 214 Plus, GS mini Rosewood, GS mini Koa, GS mini Maple Bass, Big Baby and a Baby Taylor. Im done with Taylor! The Gibson sound is like no other on the planet! It has a growl to it like nothing else. But you've got to get a good Gibson bc Gibson is known for flaws bc they are hand made. Gibson's are killer and they are "Bad Ass" looking guitars! I own a Sheryl Crow Country Western Supreme, there is a 300 make limit on it and I doubt it will get there. Only 60 so far have been made. I own, a 50's J45 that is killer, LG2 and a Hummingbird standard. Currently waiting on my local store, Willcutt Guitars to get in an L00 with an addy top. I 've never had a Martin I didn't have to modify therefore they don't work well for me. I do like the Martin CEO7. Its killer but the neck is not comfy for me.
Taylors are very articulate instruments for precision players dave gilmour used one on his live concert dvd, their more for the musical conasuer in the same way great classical guitars are therefore their not like your gibson which are great guitars but again gibson is an old fashioned sound it's the sound of the 50s that you just don't get from other guitars and the gibson sound contributed so much of the 70s bands and 70s sound also the sg ACDC, the j45 the Beatles, the J200 Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan Nashville Skyline etc but as much as its still a great guitar it's sound has been played to death and you won't stand out enough today in the music industry by producing your sound via the gibson, Taylors are ment to be played in conjunction with other types of guitar played together, the new taylor v bracing is clarity all over the board were notes suck on the x bracing guitar they are great on the v class, taylor genuinely have brought us to new horizons it's not a marketing ploy the Academy series is about inviting the people to play music, if you watch the videos from Andy powers and others you come to understand that taylors main objective is to provide all with a great instrument built to the highest standards but most importantly at an affordable price point, if you think that's impossible go check out the Taylor pallet guitar on here, it's made of old shipping pallets 25 we're made and they sell for no less than 20 thousand dollars each.
I know this is an oldie, but Taylor seem to have stopped using ovangkol; their most recent AD guitars have walnut back and sides, which I guess is readily available as it's a North American hardwood. It could be that they were using up the ovangkol that perhaps didn't make the grade for their former 400 series, which may be why they started using Indian rosewood on that series.
The Taylor AD17 has a longer scale length (25.5") than the Gibson (24.75").
This is kind of important.
With the same strings and the same player, I hear more harmonic content from the Taylor and it sounds nicer.
Absolutely. That's a substantial difference
I bought an AD17e Blacktop because it just sounded better than anything else at that price point. I tried several AD17s but mine stood out - and to the doubters out there, it has significantly more bass than my Gibson J-45.
I believe you! This AD17 was exceptional.
@@JeremySheppard It sounds a whole lot like mine, just played better! Seriously though, I have (like you) a scary number of guitars, but this is the one that gets the compliments when I'm doing gigs
I want that Taylor AD series!! Haha 😅 but seriously...I did get a great deal with the Gibson G45 they released in 2019, without the soundport in the side. That has a hard case, and smells like walnut and vanilla (just an added bonus). That guitar sounds better than the G45s they re-released last year, and I got it for about $300 less too! The finish feels really nice too 🙂. I think you're right--the Taylor American-made for $1500 is a great deal, but I think I made out all right with my 2019 Gibson G45 😉. Love the videos by the way!
Your brain is just wanting to think a name makes a guitar better go check out Andy powers V class bracing video
@@gazzat7309 yeah, I used to think that. Then I started collecting every brand of instrument, and the different methods and woods are all so interesting!
I was interested in a Gibson J-185 EC last summer. While I was researching a guitar for potential purchase I came across a Taylor 314 CE limited. Sitka Spruce Torrified top with Sapele back and sides. The price point was within a $100 of the two. After careful deliberation I decided to take a chance and let go of tradition and give the Taylor a try. Seven months later I have no regrets! It’s like 50 First Dates! Every time I look at it and pick it up I fall in love all over again! Sorry Gibson………
I just don't rely on the sound, but in the overall quality of the guitar. Sound quality may change overtime due to wear and tear. I love the innovative value added on taylor guitars. Only the best quality guitars can actually preserve the best quality there is...
On another note Jeremy you are 100% correct that this American Dream Taylor’s are super well made! Taylor’s are superior in QC period! Like your vids bro 👊🏻
Did I hear some "Acuff-Rose" by Uncle Tupelo in there?
Down the road, I'd love to hear your take on the new version of the J-45 that Epiphone's doing (or the Hummingbird, or the J-200 in that same line). That seems to be the place where the Gibson company is trying to make a serious play at a value-for-money intermediate acoustics.
Just listening, I thought you played the Taylor first and was trying not to be biased because I've been thinking about getting an AD-17. Now I might get the G45 Gibson instead. Innovation is nice and all and I've tried to like the v-class bracing, but there is a reason everyone used X bracing for decades.
I’m a Martin guy and always will be. That being said I went to Sam ash a few weeks back. I’ll tell right now, the AD17 is imo one of the best sounding and playing guitars for the money out there. For under $2000 to get an American made Taylor is a steal
Under 2k i think furch blue might be best
@@kuriousissa548 I honestly feel sorry for the thousands of people who don't know about the Furch Blue series...
At 14:12 I can see your shirt thru the top side hole. Like there’s another hole in the bottom side. Weird.
That's really weird. It just lined up with the top and side holes.
i own a Martin and Seagull guitar. I was interested in your comparison. I think they both sounded good, but the Gibson just rings out so much more......nice bass response too. Taylor sounded good but darker. Great videos....keep up the great work.
Despite the fact that Gibson moved away from the WINNING J15 and now have even managed to downgrade the G45 🤷♂️ it still has a “Gibson” sound which is distinguishable. Since I’ve owned a Ovangkol Martin and currently have a Gibson J15 in my collection I like to think I have some experience on the subject. I don’t like Ovangkol lol it sounds like a wannabe Rosewood but it’s more muddy maybe some will like it for it’s charm but the overtones are A LOT for me personally. So sonically I give the W to Gibson. Looks wise I like that AD17 a lot but wish it came in Sapele or Mahogany.
Dang dude . . . way to pick a fight! Whew! I had an opportunity to spend pretty much as much as I wanted for a new guitar. Had always wanted a Taylor (been playing for 40+ years) and went shopping for something new, didn’t want to limit myself to a Taylor, and set a budget of $4K and under. I tried all of the Taylors that I could find and loved the feel of playing them but could not get the bass response that I wanted like I could with a Martin. The Martin that I loved the sound of was $10K. I really don’t play well enough to justify that amount nor do I need a $10K+ guitar. Ended up getting and returning a few guitars until I found an all Walnut (front/back/sides) Taylor 724CE at Guitar Center. Oh my gosh, it looks beautiful, sounds amazing, and plays like a dream. This is a guitar that makes me smile when I look at it and when I play it. It has the crisp highs that Taylors are known for and has a warm deep bass.
Based on my limited experience shopping for guitars I would agree with you, for the price/value, you can probably find a Taylor with the sound you want at a much better price then a comparable Martin, and for me the Taylors are so easy to play. All of that being said, play the guitar you can afford and that feels good to you. I started on a Sears Silvertone, played it for years before getting my Alvarez. It’s better than doing nothing, not everyone can play so embrace it.
I've been playing guitar for 52 years. I own Martins, Taylors and Guild. All American-made guitars. My go-to guitars? Seagulls. Best value for the dollar and regardless of series, hold their own in sound quality against the "big boys." As far as the Taylor vs. Gibson, the Taylor had a more focused sound. The Gibson was muddy. Guess that's why I never bought a Gibson acoustic, (love their electrics, though).
I heard Norwegian wood. The gibson sounded more to my taste. Did you mention the side holes? That would be a deal breaker for me, i think.
I have the ORIGINAL G45. They stopped making it and put out this cheaper version you are reviewing. My G45 is bound back and front with electronic pickup. totally different guitar.
the original had hard case included, this one sucks really...soft gigbag, ugly hole, sucks.
You’re lucky like me 😀 I’ve got a studio version with binding on the front and satin finish.... these guitars were an absolute steal
Never in my life did I think I'd say that I preferred a Taylor over a Gibson. I'm saying here, now (between these two only). The Taylor had a depth that the Gibson G-45 didn't have, and surprised me. Every Taylor I've ever picked up sounded thin. The Taylor you just played was surprisingly thick (substance), which I prefer. I may pick one up. Appreciate the insights here.
Gibson G-45 has a thinner body then a standard J-45, thats why.
I went to buy a G45 and the store manager said you mean a J-45… So I walked out with a J-45 !!! No comparison and I still have yet to play a Taylor of any sorts that blows me away !!! It’s not happening folks … Nothing for nothing but every Taylor I have played sounded good and ok but not wow!!!
That’s not to say every Gibson or Martin sounds amazing either but they do have models that are wow !!! Martin, been around for almost 200 years and Gibson for over 100…. I think Taylor still has some maturing to do …
@@supermarioxs1 3 exclamation points, so I believe you 😁
@@Itsme-vd3dx Right. At that time I’ve never played either and then played them both side by side .
So , the GC store manager was right . Although , I was looking to spend $1000 to $1200 , lol…
Next thing I know I’m looking at a
$2800 guitar… He did hook me up though, gave me a nice discount, so that’s how I wound up with the J-45 standard vintage sunburst which looks absolutely amazing I might add.
@@supermarioxs1 Good choice mate. If you think of it in a long term, its no money. I have a j45 vintage from 2015. Its so good that I sold all my other guitars.
From what I've seen it's actually a $400 difference in price ($1199 vs. $1599), but I agree the Taylor is very much worth that, assuming one can fit that into their budget. I recently shopped some guitars at a national chain showroom (rhymes with Cam Sash) and came across a J45 Studio on display where the workmanship was visibly pathetic. Glue everywhere inside, wires undressed on the electronics, bracing apparently sculpted with an ax, and that's on the $2000 version. I can only imagine how much worse it might be on a $1199 G45. By the same token, I couldn't find one flaw in any Taylor I picked up, including the very modestly priced Academy series. And they just play beeee-uuu-tifully, as you demonstrated on the video so well. Great review.
Taylor’s are robotically made with far higher tolerances in the manufacturing process. Gibsons will never have the same fit and finish if not made this way. However, over all some how Gibsons all have a warmer sound.
I have four Taylors (512, 555, T-5, GS mini), a Martin M-36 and an OM sized guitar I built. I stopped into a Guitar Center a while back just to check out what was there, particularly interested in the new GT size Taylor. I was the only person in the guitar room, so spent a while sampling, including some $3,000+ guitars. In the end, I found myself especially drawn to and enjoying the AD series guitar. It not only holds its own against similarly priced guitars, but by sound and feel, really is a joy to play along side of some premium level guitars. I think you have nailed it with your enthusiasm about this guitar. I also really appreciate their focus on sustainable woods for their guitars.
Is it worth upgrading from GS (walnut sides and back) to the AD17 (also walnut sides and back)?
what's the song starting at 8:35?
“Cover me up” by Jason Isbell but my version is in DADGAD instead of his drop D original.
I have a Gibson songwriter which I've had strings replaced and lowered trying to increase playability. I almost returned my Martin d18 before the truss rod was tweaked and Elixir strings put on. Playability is #1. What good is a guitar that everyone says sounds good if it's hard, or no fun to play? Every Taylor I have, including my Taylor AD17E BLK plays well out of the box. AD17 and D18 are played above others. The Gibson sounds good but isn't as forgiving as others.
Taylor make a good guitar but I don't care much for the sound of a Taylor. Just a personal preference. I would get a Gibson over a Taylor. My favorite guitar sound is a Martin D-28 or even a D-18. Or even one of their 000 sized guitars. Again, just my preference.
This review is spot on! I have both a Gibson G-45 and Taylor 214ce. The G-45 and the finish has warn badly around the soundhole in less than 2 years, my Taylor 214 the finish is almost 10 years old and has stood up perfectly. Granted the Taylor 214 is a higher quality than the AD17 but I paid the same money for it new. The Gibson G-45 is easier to play I will give its kudos there. Overall if given the choice Taylor is definitely the guitar of choice.
Also @Jeremy Sheppard the AD17 blacktop with a pickup is 1700 new but natural finish is 100 bucks cheaper. The natural finish looks great too.
Question,, I bought a used Taylor GT e urban ash and have had it for a week,, well today is the last day I can return it for a full store credit and they have a Taylor 326ce and I’m thinking of trading up,, any advise would be great,, hope it’s in time. Thanks. Love watching your channel
The 326 is a big step up, if it makes sense and you don't have to borrow to do it, maybe go for it. Make sure it's good for you, your plan, your family and your world.
A Gibson headstock on a Gibson guitar is... Clickbait? LOL
I have a Gibson G-45 from 2020, when they still had binding, and they weren't putting that weird hole in the side. Sounds awesome, flawless fit and finish. Got it for less than a grand. Don't know about these new ones.
Oh, and I got a hard case! lol
HI Jeremy, I love your videos and channel in general. This partly got me interested in getting a guitar. I was really interested in the Taylor 214 CE Dlx, but eventually purchased the Taylor Urban Ash GT. It came with the Arrow (spelling?) and its great.
Both sound good. I think the Gibson sounded better. More nuances to my ear. Taylor was very compressed to me. One demo sounded like cover me up by Jason Isbell
They are both great guitars but I prefer the Gibson USA or even higher end Epiphone's over the Taylor. Blues On....💙
What song are you playing around the 9 minute mark on the Taylor and what is the tuning.
I don't know what everyone's listening on here, but I listened with the Shure headphones that I use for tracking and I think that they both sound really nice. The Gibson has more of a wood sound to me and I love that while the Taylor has more of a bright mid range that has energy, but that varies on each with what is being played. Sometimes the Gibson had as much bright mids as the Taylor. Where it is strummed or picked was making a difference here too. I thought that on most things the performances sounded more comfortable and accurate on the Gibson, but all of the playing was good on both guitars. One other point; this range isn't just for beginners. This range is also for advanced players, semi pros and pros who might need an acoustic guitar for a song or two and don't want to spend $2000 or $3000 on an acoustic guitar that's a secondary instrument for them. It's always best to play them yourself and see what works best for you.
Taylor is clearly a better company than Gibson I don’t care how long Gibson has been around. Just my opinion.
@@R.L.Humpert I guess we all have an opinion and personal experience. I have played Gibson electric guitars for decades. I have owned guitars (electric and acoustic) made by other great manufacturers through that time as well and I liked most of those guitars but I am down to 2 Gibson Les Pauls now and a really beat up Ibanez couch guitar that I got for dirt cheap. I have experienced only good from Gibson, but again, everyone needs to find their own connection with an instrument. What guitar best allows you to express your ideas, style and talent? That is all that matters and it's absolutely personal. I'd probably be happy with either of the guitars in this video. Each one would bring out different elements of what I play so each one would probably influence what I write on them differently and that expands creativity, so it's probably bet to get both if you can!
The Gibson sounded better. Also, there’s just something about looking through the sound hole and seeing a tone bar on an angle on the Taylor that is just wrong. Maybe I’ve been looking at too many Martins and Gibsons.
The commentary is even more relevant for the Taylor academy series. They offer great value for money, and the compromise between the building quality and material is well balanced.
Jeremy, aesthetically speaking I think the Taylor wins. However, most people won’t buy a black spruce top, and to my ears the Gibson sounded great and was less money. Martin I feel would beat both in terms of the topics you discussed. Thanks for the video.
I don't think Taylor guitars in are so much one flavor anymore. (Sound-wise)
Providing variations makes sense. Taylor guitars have always been well-made. They have been on the brighter side, sound-wise. Now, that's not so much the case.
Aiming to please a broader range of players means they may be selling more guitars.
Why have multiple guitars if they all sound alike?
I really love your videos Jeremy, and I understand what you are saying about innovation and adding value.....but finally it comes down to sound for me, and the sound of the Gibson is so much better (to me)....
I respect this comment so much!
Taylor came out with the American Dream line during the 1st shut down because they had certain materials and decided to make guitars. The shape is the Taylor Grand Pacific, a design to make a guitar sound like old recordings. Had tried a Gibson G, and didn't like the neck. Those D'Addario NB strings bring out the bass. I'm aiming for a Taylor AD22E. In the meantime, get me a used Martin CEO-7.
Just based on this demo, the Gibson sounds brighter/crisper to me, which I prefer. I like the Taylor 214ce but this one sounds a little “midrangey” or muffled to me.
on another youtube channel someone cut the gibson open and found a horrible mess inside...glue everywhere, improper brace finishing, etc. Did the same to a Taylor and it was pristine. Gibson is just farming out mass produced guitars without quality control, while Taylor made a much more gradual and careful entry into that area.
I agree on everything you said and in my opinion the Taylor sounds much better than the Gibson as well. However, I was surprised to hear the small price difference between the two, because here in Europe that difference is significantly larger. Approximately 1100 euro for the Gibson G-45 against 1600 euro for the AD17 and 1900 (!!! - don't ask why) for the AD17e.
So for the beginning guitar player who wants to start on a fairly good guitar from a major brand, but doesn't want to overdo it, the Gibson could be within reach, while the Taylor would be too much to ask for.
But there's something else I don't understand. I was (and still am) the happy owner of a J-45. When the first version of the G-45 came out they were great value for your money. Especially the Studio version. I bought the G-45 Studio for 884 euro (!!!). For this amount of money you had a wonderful looking hardcase, an LR Baggs PU-system, a faux tortoise shell pickguard (much more appealing) and you didn't have that cheap and ridiculously looking extra hole on the side of the guitar. In my opinion that was what you'd call 'bang for the buck'. I bought it because it looked cool (I don't mind the lack of binding - my favorite guitar is the 00-15m), it was relatively inexpensive, certainly for an all solid wood guitar, and I wanted to experiment with a dropped C tuning. I couldn't afford a guitar that would cost me 3 or 4 times this price and risk the chance of finding out that a dropped C tuning wasn't my thing. And I wouldn't risk spending 1900 euro for something like this either. And, lucky me, the G-45 Studio works really well in a dropped C tuning.
But now, with all the changes they made on the new G-45 and the ridiculous price, I would've gone for other options.
In this comparison the Taylor is the clear winner for me.
I understand that appreciate your perspective and thoughts on these two guitars. However, listening through headphones, I personally prefer the Gibson. It was warm, rich and full. The Taylor was okay but very bright and very tenor overall.
Gibson is not a quality instrument tho…
@@angelg8445 But what are people HEARING. The sound or the looks!!!
@@angelg8445 Unless you plan on hanging it on the wall as a decoration, sound is the most important factor in selecting an instrument. The G45 sounded better to me as well.
@@shawnsnow6413 the boys at driftwood cut that open, its really poorly made and SLOPPY. Its your choice and YMMV but that guitar wont play well, or stay together its a cash grab from Gibson
One of things I don’t like about Taylor is they are always changing their line-up. I bought a 618e and no sooner had I bought it they completely changed that model. I felt like I was stuck with a somewhat obsolete model.
Very nicely done Jeremy! We know you don't favor a Taylor. Your honesty shines through on this one.
I've been intrigued with the v bracing although I have not played very many of them. The taylor had a bit more low end than i usually expect. It was more martinish in a way. It would be more helpful to play the same licks to see the difference vs different licks. As much as i like gibson guitars their budget guitars feel cheap and the various models they made in recent years have strayed from the gibson sound. Thats why people want a gibson. Nothing sounds like a j45 or a j200. Thats always been the selling point. They are just so iconic. Taylor though is so out of the box the one thing you can count on is repeated quaity
Sold my v braced Taylor and bought a Gibson. Way better
I just purchased a Taylor 912 CE and the very first time I picked it up it was a little bit uncertain and thought I had wasted $5k. Boy was I wrong! After several weeks now it's settled in and I'm settled in with it!
Lookin to add a walnut back and sides guitar to my collection. I like the g45 but am concerned about it being satin finished. Pros/ cons of g45 vs j45 studio?
Check out driftwood’s breakdown , the finish is terrible, the bracing is sub par. They just don’t seem like quality instruments. If you spend 1000$ get a Larrivee, Eastman or used 15 series Martin. The satin finish can be done well by Larrivee.
@@angelg8445 thanks for the response. What’s you’re take on the J45 Studio (the full gloss one)?
@@angelg8445 The Martin 15 series is much better made than the g45s and you get a hard shell case!
I've been playing since 1978 and I just bought my first Taylor guitar, I wish I had gotten one long ago. I LOVE Taylor tone.
They are the complete package
Uh, with the different woods that they are both using to kind of keep production costs down,both guitars to me anyway sound chime-y & resonant. To me they are similar tone wise and they are relatively punchy & the electronics for a cost cutter is definitely a plus. So the quality of the the build on the Taylor puts it over the top I guess,sorry I m a Gibson guy though, they are dealing with some quality control issues right now that I think they are getting in line?
I played the Gibson G-45 at the Gibson garage in Nashville and really liked it. It is short scale and the Taylor is not which is why the Taylor sounded deeper and thicker. When I think Taylor I think cutaway. I’m a Martin guy and have that tone in my head which cuts out taylor unless I wanted a cutaway. I would easily go for the G45 over the ad17 because of price and I did like the tone holes. It was very easy to play too.
Excellent review, Jeremy. Driftwood reviewed the new series of Gibsons and found issued in the bracing and glue squeeze-out. Your points are excellent.
I love Chris and Driftwoods videos.
I have played some disappointing Gibsons, as well as some inspiring, life-affirming great ones. I have never played a bad Taylor - their quality control is notable. However, with one exceptiion (a top-of-the-line 12 string) I have never played a Taylor that I couldn't put back on the rack and walk out of the store without it. I can definitely live without the ported bouts on the Gibson. Having said that, we have to acknowledge that a guitar purchase is to a large extent subjective. Which feels best under my hands? Which give me the sound I want to hear? Ultimately your best guitar is where you find it, no matter who makes it.
ruclips.net/video/_Hy6dy82l1M/видео.html
Sounds to me that the Taylor would cut through for someone who wanted to busk or do small gigs where there's a lot of low level noise. As a long, long time guitar player I want binding on a guitar and I'll pay the extra for it.
I prefer the open chords on the Gibby overall. Finger style sounds decent on the Taylor. Both tend to thud and clank. I guess that's what you get that at this price point.
If you pause the video at 6.05 you can actually see the V Brace on the Taylor coming through the top. It’s seems to me that all the V brace guitars have a slight lump or bump on the top lower portion of the guitar. I’ve just bought a K14ce Builders Edition 2021 model and it had the slight lump on the top. I then went and felt a lot of the V bracing guitars and they all have similar lumps of bumps. The X brace versions do not. There’s enough people concerned about it that Bob Taylor’s done a video addressing it (called “Bob explains telegraphing” or something) and it’s to do with changes in humidity apparently. But my guess is it’s not flat at the factory (which is held around 50% or so), which is also the same as my room with my guitar …. Yet there’s a bump. I suppose the 10 year warranty helps alleviate concerns but still it’s a bit odd ….
I also have a new Gibson G00 which I replaced a Martin 00X2e with as a travel guitar. It’s sounds great. If I’m honest it sounds every bit as good as the Martin though I still think I’d prefer it without the sound port. Yes I can hear a difference with the sound port vs the Martin but I can’t determine if it’s better or worse tonality but it is definitely louder for the player with it. Aesthetically I’d prefer the sold sides anyway. Not sure why Gibson went with it. If Taylor had done an AD GC sized guitar for around £1k I’d have probably have gone for it though
I don't have a dog in this fight, but it sure seems like there is pre-biased judgment at work here. The Gibson has a freaking sound hole cut in the side -- but you bash it for not "innovating"? And it's 000 depth in a SS dread shape, also innovative.
Taylor's AD formula is also cost-cutting -- the open-pore finish, the rough textures, the unconventional and streaky fretboard/headstock wood, the lack of binding, the soft case. And it's hundreds of dollars more than the Gibson.
Having played them both, I agree that the Taylor has a couple more quality touches, like the headstock inlay and the smoother fretboard edges. Taylors are always nicely turned out. On the other hand, the Gibson has a legit dovetail neck joint. The sound quality is a tossup. So there's a lot to like, and some tradeoffs to note, in both guitars, which makes your one-sided review a real head-scratcher.
I have a 1997 taylor 422-r and love it. Bought it new. 12:09
The Taylor sounds very treble heavy which is almost seperated from the bass end, didn't sound balanced to me. Preferred the overall balance of the Gibson, more mids.
I hear a lot of compression for both guitars, they sound great but different
RUclips squashes everything down.
What is the compression sound to look for when watching demos?
I one of those new people. I started about 4 months ago. I did make a mistake I bought a cheap Squire Dread on Amazon. But sine I have added 2 more both Martin Dreadnoughts and they are awesome. Love playing them even though I'm not any good but I will keep at it everyday and I keep searching for that perfect tone ; ) Its so crazy I lived in El Cajon for 3 years and never knew about Taylors lol.
I'm so excited for you!! Let me know if I can help!
@@JeremySheppard Thank you my friend I will. We live relatively close so I'll stay in touch. Next one I want is a Jumbo.
They both sound decent. I'm surprised there isn't more cherry used in guitars like these (or guitars in general). I prefer the tone over walnut personally.
I bought a Taylor 110e , I compared it to $5,000 Martins and the Taylor was just as musical and easy to play . I play it everyday . I recommend it .
I have am epiphone inspired by gibson j45, solid mahogany, solid spruce top, nice sunburst 799. It's awesom
I always recommend Taylors because of their build quality and versatility. They’re amazing with alternate chords and tunings because they’re more complex and articulate. There’s a reason jazz guys love Taylors. If you can’t afford an all solid Taylor, look at Seagull’s Artist Mosaic line.
That said, I do love Martins and Gibsons for their simpler woody tone, but the build quality can really let you down.
Great video. I agree with you on Gibson's race to the bottom line. One thing I would add, is Taylor is crazy consistent in their quality. I can go into any guitar store and take any new Taylor off the wall, and it will be set up well, and play well. With Gibson, if I can find one I like, I know Im going to need a set up, and that's after playing 10 of them to find one I like. If you don't like the sound of a Taylor, that's fine, but you cannot argue with their quality and innovation. I have a martin, eastman and taylor and love them all, but Taylor has really been the innovator. Even Martin has basically copied Taylor with their latest bolt on neck cutaway models.
Off topic but a Martin D-15m all the way. $1349. Open gear tuners, bone nut/saddle and hard shell case. It’s not a slope shoulder but that’s what I’d pick.
Me too! Those are wonderful guitars!
Jeremy I usually agree with you 100%. However, in this case I only partially agree. I’ve played the Taylor. It is a WONDERFUL guitar and amazing for the money. I will buy one sometime this year.
But as to the Gibson, I purchased the non ported version last year and couldn’t get rid of it fast enough. It had no soul and just seemed cheap in my hands. I did NOT enjoy playing it and never thought I would say that about a Gibson. Very sad to me. The race to the bottom…. To me a $1200 Eastman feels/sounds better.
But your videos are GREAT, and so enlightening, even to an old dude like me.
Thank you for what you do.
Great video Jeremy, but do you think you could go easier on the compression next time?
That's all RUclips. No compression on the mics. It's frustrating.
@@JeremySheppard really?? Seems more than usual, sorry about that. RUclips compression is a pain
@@JeremySheppard I agree with Zachariah, great information in the demo but the excessive compression made it difficult to listen to. Even your voice is squashed like crazy. There are plenty of open and dynamic recordings on RUclips. Maybe something in the settings?
Nice playing
Thanks for the great video - think I'll subscribe! Really enjoyed your assessment. Both sounded pretty good to me on my bose desktop speakers, but I did lean significantly to the Taylor. But I'm largely a Taylor guy. I've got two 714's that I dearly love. But I try not to be too brand biased. I've definitely played some wonderful guitars from most of the other brands. And I've got a wonderful sounding '74 Giannini dread that I've had since '74 - brazilian rosewood! Again, thanks for the quality video.
I think the 714s built up to the 2010's were the best Taylor ever built. Earlier the better.
@@mt-nv4jd You know, it's kind of funny. I've got a 2020 and a 2002 - and I literally go back and forth between which one I like the tone of better. I've decided that the 20 has better clarity and the 02 has better warmth. Most of my buddies like the '02 better and I like the '20 better . . . but I'm truly not sure how much of that is my subconscious remembering the dent in my wallet for the new one : )
Great video J. May I ask if you process your audio in any way (eq., compression, reverb, etc.) . I understand your ribbon microphone choice but wondered about minor processing for RUclips . I need some help with my own acoustic guitar recording. As much as I'd prefer to remain faithful to the guitar, sometimes the real world of acoustic recording requires tweaking. Thanks bubba.
Gibson still have a long way to go to match quality to price. I have a 2008 Les Paul where all four knobs have split in half and fallen off. Determined to buy a really nice acoustic I went to Andertons (UK). The young sales guy was very helpful and I tried all manner of Gibson acoustics. whilst comparing them to cheaper guitars like Epiphones. Nothing stood out. The young sales guy took me to the back of the shop and introduced me to Taylor acoustics. I had never heard of them but was hugely impressed by the finish, tone and how they played. Long story short - I bought a Taylor 414ce-R. The Les Paul sits in it's case until I figure out what to do about the knobs.
I wouldn't be interested in either of those guitars, however what you said about your guitar as an extension of your personal and artistic expression , that's good stuff and so true, well done.
One of the biggest differences that you didn’t mention is that the Gibson has a shorter scale length. The longer scale length of the Taylor is more like a Martin, which also made round-shouldered dreadnoughts way back when.
Whoops. Totally true.
Scale length is for me the primary factor in choosing a guitar type. Most people don't seem to notice it very much, even shop owners. I prefer the shorter scale, anything from 24.75 to 25.0. To me it usually sounds preferable, more mellow and less aggressive, less aesthetics/left hand noises. Easier to play.
Of the two here, I'd still take the Taylor. That Gibson sucks. I pretty much have to be blown away to buy something from Gibson, Taylor, or Martin. You get an unbound guitar with kind of anemic looking woods for around 1400 dollars. It's just brand slavery.
2 things we all know, or should, if you own a Gibson youll never have to Google what Country its made in and you'll never have to Google is it a solid body guitar, if you own one its both or you dont own a Gibson. unfortunately you cant say the same for the latter 😬
There's about a 5 year stretch of Canadian made acoustic guitars. Also, hundreds of thousands of chibson clones made in China.
If you have a Gibson, you can spend a lot of time wondering if it's made in the USA. 😂
@JeremySheppard GIBSON guitars are ALL made in the US. They have a budget line, branded Epiphone, that is made in Asia. But any guitar from China with the Gibson logo is a fake. I havent come across a Solid Body fake, would be cool to see. If someone's dumb enough to drop a few thousand not knowing whether it's real or a fake, then I guess they deserve it, I've yet to see Sam Ash or Guitar center sell Fake Gibsons
Look up Canadian Gibson acoustics. They were a thing for 5 years or so. Not all Gibson's are made in the USA.
@@JeremySheppard Big Difference between China/Korea/Mexico than our Brothers/Sisters in Canada 😆, thats a BiG Looooooong stretch you probably of been better off not mentioning that LOL
But FYI Gibson bought the Nova Scotia-based Garrison guitars and then converted Garrison’s factory into making dreadnought and OM models - Garrison Guitars was a guitar manufacturing company originally founded by Chris Griffiths in Canada in 1999. The company was bought out by Gibson for 3 years from 2007 to 2010 when Gibson officially closed Garrison for good...
I think we need a head to head between that Taylor and a Yamaha FG red label.
Yes and while they are at it, Alvarez Yairi, or Alvarez Masterworks.
Jason Isbell on the Taylor sounded so sweet :)
I’ve never liked Taylor but they are winning me over, their newer guitar like the grand pacific look & sound fantastic, I’m very intrigued & thinking hard about buying a Taylor; the Gibson just doesn’t look like a quality instrument, the top especially looks cheap
It upsets me to hear any shit talking on Gibsons … Gibson is iconic the best .. when I think Taylor I think praise and worship music..
Good lord. I have owned lots of high in Taylors. 910, 810, 812, 814, 710, 512, 510, Cujo Taylor, Cowboy Taylor. I have one left, a 1993 810. Mostly Taylors are boring to me. They can sound very good, but often are just blah.The 1993 910 with Cindy inlaysnI had was the best of them all and I wish I still had that one. It had bass and balance and could hang with just about any Martin. The pink poodle hand made case was stunning too. During my ownership of Taylors, the early Taylors were much better in construction and tone.1989-1995 or 96 were the best in my opinion. Taylor started "cutting corners" as you put it on woods, neck construction, case quality, etc. You did not compare cost on these guitars. The Taylor ($1949) is about 60% more expensive than the Gibson ($1199). This is not apples to apples. Why is Gibson using some traditional features on an entry level guitar a gimmick for you? The straight rectangular bridge and a basic pickguard look at home on a J-45 slope shoulder Gibson body. Why isn't painting the wood on the Taylor top to look like/be fake top binding a gimmick? I thought both guitars sounded equally good in your demo. Yes, Gibson finishes can be variable. That has always been an issue. However, by the time that G-45 is played and beat up over the years, who cares? Have you ever seen a Taylor with Mojo? With a played through top? I am sure there are some, but very rare in my experience. I currently have a lot of Gibson made acoustics. Each has tons of personality, 1970 SJ, 1950 CF 100, 1967 Hummingbird, 1967 Epiphone Frontier with Lariat pickguard, early 60s LGO, 1967 SJ. They all have personality for days. I think Taylors sound very good and are consistent. But I have only experienced a few Taylors that sounded GREAT. I would order a Taylor online before I would order a vintage or new Gibson. However, in my opinion, the best Gibsons have a much greater high end potential than the best Taylors as far as sound.
The Gibson had a more ringing voice on my headphones More chime so to speak. I am not impressed their rush to production style. Quality suffers. Do not care for the port as much either. Actually the earlier G series was a better done series. And wasn't gimmicky. Although the sound of the Taylor was somewhat compressed, it still was clear. It was dressed to impress and has a look of quality.. Nice comparison. Don't want either of them but a very useful video.for those in the market.
I would have to hear them in person unmiced, before I passed judgment, but the Gibson to my ear wasn't as loud but it had a better frequency range. The Taylor is louder, but substain of the guitar seems to accent the aftertones to the point that the secondary is overaccented. Makes the top end sound loose. I prefer a more balanced sound. The Taylor sounded alright finger picked.
But there is more or less 600 dollars in price difference between the two, which at this end of the market is a lot... I am sure that in this price bracket there are more pertinent choices than the Gibson, but it will probably made overseas.
Your G45 is not the same as the first G45's. I have a G45 for 2020. Mine is the studio version, it has binding on the top but not the back. It has a pick up system. Mine doesn't have a hole in the side. It came with a hard case.
Hi Tony, I assume your 2020 sounds a bit more deep, like maybe a J-15?
They were the J-15 before that I think that is the absolute best Gibson acoustic in the last couple years.
@@JeremySheppard I have looked at them and compared them a good bit. Thats kinda how I figured the same thing.
RUclips just showed me your video and well I guess I could be counted into this 16 million. First attempt with a Squier BulletStrat but never really took it serious.
Now it's more serious with even a Teacher and my collection expanded slightly
The BulletStrat heavily modified
Harley Benton SC550 II
Ibanez SEW761
But coming more to your topic I should also mention the acoustics.
First one a Taylor Baby BT2 Mahogany
Second, since two days posting this. Taylor 114e
Seems I'm quite focused on one brand and I love Taylor.
Glad you're here! How's it going playing wise? Keep it up!
@@JeremySheppard Well could be better, to bad that I didn't start as kid. Would have had way more time after school to practice. Now with a life as employee there isn't that much time left but there is progress and this is the important thing.
Guess learning is not a sprint but a marathon.
Interesting....on your video, the Gibson sounds a lot better, despite the open tuning used on the Taylor, which sounds, well, not tinny, but thinner and cheaper sounding.
Nice playing btw 👍
Great comparison! Jeremy have you played the Taylor AD22E? I would love to see that up against the AD17
I'll try to get one to compare.
@@JeremySheppard You’re the best!