I'm an intermediate standard and for my retirement just treated myself to the 814ce. It sounds sweeter, stays in tune longer, and is far easier to play than my Yamaha FG401. Feels very special and I know any faults are mine, not the guitar. I also know I won't suffer any buyers regret, thinking I should have gone for something better. I ride a Ducati Monster 1200R, a bike which far surpasses my ability as a biker. The 814 is the same, inspires me to improve every time I pick it up. Happy strumming Sean from the UK.
I have three Taylor, guitars of my own, I got the 814 that I bought in 2020, the one has a Bibble on the side, I have a 314, and the 5 to 4. Great playing guitars. All by Taylor as well.
I’ve played about 8 of the best guitars I ever played. 😅 They were all different sounds but all had beautiful resonance and dynamic response. I’d suggest not limiting your search to one brand.
To your point, when my brother was going to buy a new guitar a number of years ago...it was between a Taylor cutaway and I think a Gibson Hummingbird or something similar. He didn't find too many differences and was leaning toward the non Taylor. The sales clerk had my brother sit in front while the clerk played each guitar so he could fully hear them. He immediately bought the Taylor.
I have always avoided Taylor because I was ignorant. I set out to buy a Gibson J-185 late last summer and stumbled upon a Taylor 314ce with a Torrified Sitka top and Sapele back and sides………I Love it! It is my go-to acoustic guitar! I like it more than my Martin, PRS, and 1905 Washburn that has been in my family since 1925. I am trying to become worthy of my Taylor!
Shawn, I’m a tailor guitar kind of guy, I have three Taylor guitars, my favorite is the 814CE, I bought that in 2020, I have a 5 to 4, and also at 314 as well. Love, my tailors, the playability is awesome,
Taylors are my personal favorite instruments. Not just the instruments, but the company as a whole. Their Grand Pacific is my best personal fit, and I love their GS Mini.
Taylor is a Socialist Co-Op Company; the workers bought the Company and own it! They have REAL Democratic meetings where they vote on the decisions for the health of the Company instead of hedge fund corrupt folks and one owner! They decided to continue to create THE best modern acoustics in the world and that's not what happens to Companies that sell as Taylor was doing! They vote Democratically who's the Pres, if they join the markets, their pay, healthcare, pensions, THEY OWN THE MONEY AND THEY WON'T SELL OUT FOR CHEAP PROFITS LIKE CAPITALIST CORPERATIONS ALWAYS DO! This is the new Freedom the world wants, to control our lives without corporate masters that ALWAYS without care, destroy their workers lives and products before they have to change their lifestyles, NOT VERY HEALTHY AS WE ARE WATCHHING THE RESULTS HERE IN THE u.s., FACT!!
I just had a similar experience. I bought a Gibson J-45, and it blew my Taylor 414ce out of the water both in sound and playability. Before that, I loved my Taylor and figured it was the pinnacle of what an acoustic guitar could be, but this J-45 is in an entirely different universe, and now when I go back to my Taylor it feels like I'm playing a 2x4 and sounds completely dead.
Guess you haven't played guitar very long. There is no such thing as a "pinnacle guitar." I love all in my own collection which includes Gibsons and Taylors and your claim Taylor is less playable than Gibson is dubious.
I'm sure I haven't played anywhere near as many as you have, but the best sounding (if not the best "playing" maybe) is my '53 Martin D-28. Talk about volume and sustain! Can't hold a candle to this beautiful Taylor cosmetically of course...it has it's share of well earned nicks and bumps over the last almost 70 years! 😄
I've owned a Taylor 816 CE for many years and it still remains my favorite (among the many I still own/play and have had over the years) for many of the reasons you mentioned in the video. The downside you mentioned doesn't exist on the older 816 CE's which are true cutaways with the same electronics. And, as an aside, your videos are a real treat (and often a hoot) without pretense that usually has great adaptable practical techniques. Keep doing what you're doing, it's appreciated.
Just recently sold my 816ce BE, and I agree, it's hands down the best guitar I've ever played. Only sold it because I found a custom GS - spruce over mahogany, black, and VERY blingy (essentially my dream guitar). Basically the 816, but glammed up! So now I have the best of both worlds - the best sounding/playing guitar, and one I have googly eyes for. Cheers, enjoy!
I'm starting to see guitars like people. There's all kinds with there own unique qualities. I had 3 Taylor's, one was liberated. Looking forward to someday owning a SC 28.
I had a 2016 Taylor 816ce that I owned for about 4 years. Not the builders edition. Paid around $3200 for it. Ultimately I sold it because I fell in love with a Taylor 324ce ($2200). There’s a definite sweet spot with Taylor guitars when balancing features and price. For me it’s the 3/4/5/6 series. Loved that 816, but that was a lot of dough and I lean more towards the way you previously thought, the higher you go…it’s just bells and whistles
@@seandaniel23 Blackwood back and sides, mahogany top…just a touch darker in tones than most Taylors. Love it. Oh, meant to add…the 816 I had sounded HUGE the bigger body shape is super fun. You feel it against you as you play. I can only imagine that the extra sound hole on your builder takes it to another level.
The best guitar I've ever played? It's got to be a Furch Yellow GC-SR: grand auditorium with a cutaway, spruce and rosewood. It's wonderfully responsive to both delicate and heavy playing, has excellent sustain and such rich, rich tone. In some ways it's comparable to Taylor's I've played, especially in terms of playability. It's quite similar to the 714c in fact, but only about 60% of the price. I've owned my Furch for nearly a year and am still blown away by its tone each time I play it.
I always had the same thought process as you about any guitar priced over let’s say the $2,000 mark. I owned a Taylor 814ce about 12 years ago and like an idiot sold it. That 816 is pretty darn special for sure. I think if Taylor would just eliminate the so called cutaway they could lower the price because of the reduction in labor. I don’t like the look of it either. Your playing and Adrians’s vocals were something I would pay to sit and listen to if I had the opportunity. Well done.
before this video I thought this was the ultimate acoustic I had to have. The one downside you noted, trying to slide to a high fret position may be a deal breaker for me. One of the primary reasons I wanted a Taylor was the brighter sound and the cutaway for playing high notes. I may look at other Taylor options now. Thanks, Sensei!
I am going to give you a suggestion, get the Taylor, 814 builders edition, awesome Guitar, I already have the 814 CE, but the builders edition is a great guitar and it’s a cutaway. Grandela thorium.
Always went to guitar stores and played Taylor’s. Loved the way they felt, and played, like most people agree, they are so comfortable and easy to play, but the sound just wasn’t what I wanted in a guitar. I had the most typical reaction, too much treble, too bright etc. Then on one visit I tripped over a 416ce. Was blown away! Now I own (3) 16s (Grand Symphony) in different models, and looking for #4. If you are like me, try a 16 model in your favorite tone wood. Just be aware they come with and recommend medium gauge strings for the guitar because of the large top.
I'd watched a bunch of your videos before, but I had never really heard your music, there are so many musicians on" the tube " (before this video), And then I listened to the stuff you posted on this video, and IMHO that music I heard was really entertaining I really enjoy it, you have your own groove, the music is fresh and I really enjoyed listening to it. thanks a shit load, really good music, "did I say really enough" Good shit, man!!!!
Hey from Calgary Canada. I just pulled the trigger on a Taylor Koa. Love it. NB. Play the specific guitar you are buying. Subtle differences even within models.
I have 2 Taylors. A 110e, my daily driver and a 224 grand auditorium urban ash. I also had a D28 which I recently gave away to a good home. The neck on the Martin is just different enough I couldn’t adjust. I love my Taylors.
I do like the GS shape. I played a Taylor GS Maple ( brown sugar) 12 string that blew me away. Best sounding 12 string I ever played. Wish I had bought it at the time.
Ok, here's the opposing view on the Taylor 816e. I had one and I really liked it. I had no intention of selling, ever. One day in my local guitar shop I picked up a Yamaha AC3M DLX. I just could not believe that I was liking the sound better than my Taylor 816ce. I went back the next day, sat with the Yamaha for about an hour and I walked out with it and sold my Taylor 816ce. Taylor 816CE=$4000.00 Yamaha AC3M Dlx I believe was $900.00. It's not that I'm saying the Taylor 816ce isn't a fabulous guitar because it is. To my ear (I admit that it's an old ear) the Yamaha was a better sounding instrument.
The thing about Taylor's is what you don't see in any one guitar but is present in every guitar across the line. The neck setting system is just so repeatable and efficient. So if you are a traveling artist and your guitar gets damaged, you can go to Guitar Center and walk out with a replacement and it will play the same, and sound quite close. You could sift through a boutique luthier's guitars and maybe find one that you like better, but if something goes sideways you can't replace it. I would love to know how many times Leo Kottke has had to get an emergency replacement on the road. He is hard on his equipment, but anywhere in the US he can get a replacement that plays the same and sounds enough the same in probably 4 hours.
I have a Taylor AD17 and it plays great, but it sounds like a mini. The best guitar I've ever played is my Orangewood Ecko (Live). A deeper sound and it plays so easily (smooth). I always go through the action and make sure it set to a 'Low-Med.' action. At the rear action and Nut, the strings are dead-on.
Sounds great. Thats how I feel about my Taylor 414ce-R. I played 17 guitars ( 5 brands ) and choose this guitar = Sound & playability was incredible. I'm not as high on the ES-2 system as you. oNe LoVe from NYC
I’ve been “playing” guitar since 11/2017. I just know chords, I make up my own stuff, I don’t know a single song really BUT, Taylor has always felt the best across all of their models to me I felt during my time testing guitars relentlessly at my local GC and Sam Ash dealers. My favorite overall guitar I owned was a 000-18, and my favorite sounding ANDA playing guitar was a Yamaha LS-26. I prefer the GA/S/000 body styles and less gimmicks when playing as well. I love these types of videos Sean. I guess you’re feeling a little better after COViD? Thank goodness!
I love watching people fight over Taylor vs Martin. I wanted to offer up the idea that it's okay to love them both. I do, anyway. I'm fortunate enough to have a Taylor K24ce Builders Edition and a Martin oo-28vs 12 fret. Couldn't be more different and I couldn't love them both more. If someone asked me to pick the better one I couldn't.
I really enjoyed the sound of the violin and guitar together - really got my attention. I have a Martin HD 28 which I love - plays really well and has a great sound. I have a Taylor GS mini which plays really nice as well.
I had a Taylor that I loved, but after my Martin 000-18e, I sold it. Never heard or played a guitar that touched it. Including my buddy's D41. Although comparing a 000 to a dreadnought is Apples and oranges of course. Not a bluegrass guitar, but sounds incredibly warm and plays like butter.
I bought my first Taylor yesterday and I can’t stop playing it is the best I’ve ever had..the always told me that Taylor guitars where the best..the only thing is the price after tax it came down to 2000 dollars for a guitar.
I own Ten high end guitars and seven are Taylors, 1980 Martin D-28 in mint condition with original case and key and a new Gibson J-45 sixties model and I love everyone of my guitars but Taylor are my favorite.Ive owned twelve different Martin guitars including a D-45 and this 1980 is the best sounding Martin I've ever heard but I got a 2015 614ce that most people think sounds better than the Martin, Gibson has the Martin beat I think also,But when I go to my 914ce and K-24 ce and my 814ceDLX and my816ce then it's hard to choose from these guitars,I love the 614ce so much I bought a 2019 614ce builders edition WHB.I just never had except my 1980 Martin guitar been a Martin guy,Taylor hands down my favorite guitars then Gibsons and Guilds my second choice and don't really think theres a better Martin guitar than my 1980 but it still rates third.Also have a Baby Taylor and a Epiphone Dove that really surprised me how easy and good sounding for a much inexpensive guitar than my others.😮I bought my 816ce brand new in 2015 mine don't have the sound port the only guitar i didn't buy brand new is my 1980 Martin D-28.
Hands down is an Olson, but mucho bucks and it may require a new homeowner's insurance policy or negotiations regarding first born children to get near one of these. 2nd is probably my Taylor 814 CE or a Moon (a Scottish builder) 'Dougie Maclean Signature'. My Martin D-35 and D-35-12 are pretty nice too. The D-41 is a little disappointing though but it's pretty. The Taylor got all my attention for a couple years much to the chagrin of the rest of the stable. Anyhoo, about 10 years ago I started tuning my top 6 steel string performers in different open tunings to save time; C, D, DADGAD, E and Std. Usually with string sets optimized for each. Usually leave the 12 detuned a half or whole tone for playability, hand cramps and neck stress; no truss rods in any of my Martins. I have had a couple neck resets over the years to optimize the Martins for me. But there all keepers for life.
You can tell the difference and the 816ce sounds incredible. I guess when you are comparing guitars from the same builder, I would think spending more would get you a better sounding guitar. I do love the tone and there is a clear difference.
To sum up then... the only thing that is wrong with the guitar is the gimmick (and you don't like bells and whistles anyway) which is probably what Taylor was hoping to be the big selling point... I suspect less visits will be afforded to you at Taylor but I'm pleased that your review on this guitar is honest. I wouldn't pay 4K for an acoustic regardless. Great videos btw regards
I have a pretty good relationship with them so I think they actually enjoy the feedback. It's tough though, because one of my favorite things about it is the secondary sound port, but my least favorite thing is the cutaway...but the cutaway IS the secondary port!
For $4k, it better be a great guitar. I have a Taylor guitar and I love the sounds it produces. It is a 114e which is closer to the entry level guitars they offer than that 4k one, but even so, it sounds and plays wonderfully. So, I guess you could say I'm a Taylor fan boy because if anyone asks, I'll direct them to check out Taylor guitars over any other mass produced guitars.
I have a Taylor 114ce. And love it. I see more and more guys on here playing Taylor’s all the time. If I could afford a more expensive model I would definitely get one. Taylor forever 👍
A week or so ago I was in Musicians Workshop, an Asheville music shop that has room dedicated to Taylor acoustics and I spent some time going around the room and played some of the more expensive Taylors. Admittedly the G816 was not one of them. I didn't see any more expensive than $2500. However, each of them seemed to fall short of the Larrivee I own and love. Like your G83 it cost me about $1200 and when I compared it to an older Taylor being sold for $2500 the Larrivee sounded and felt as good if not better. I encourage you to try one. I am not trying to change your mind about your Taylor although I know there are other guitar makers out there, way out of my price range and aside from Larrivee, that seem to have something that Taylor does not in their design.
I have carefully drilled 1-1/2" soundports into the upper part of lower bought of 4 of my guitars to provide a better unamplified player sound. Several RUclips videos on how to do this "surgery" without damaging guitar finish.
@@seandaniel23 that would be cool. Maybe don't approach it as a shootout, maybe approach it as two of the top American companies and highlight their differences. So people can choose which one is right for them and their application.
I’ve only been playing off and on for 10 years. Five years ago I had a 316 CE all my friends said The Guitar sounded amazing. I had to let it go three years ago, a regret that lingers more than any human love I’ve had to let go. Taylor has since discontinued that model… I will find love again someday. Who said you can’t buy love? US$4000.
I have played a lot of high end guitars and I have to say my Martin D-28 has met and exceeded my expectations. I have also built a few guitars and toured the Martin , Gibson and Collins factories and still come back to the Martin. The Taylors always seem to have a compressed sound which I am not a fan of. By the way, what happened to your Martin D-35?
Yes, but yes. It's very nice but in my experience as a CSGB (Compulsive Serial Guitar Buyer) and a compulsive Cereal buyer I find that the tone is a touch less important than the feel. Plugged in tone can be tweaked but it's all about the playability me thinks. I'm lucky to have a really nice Martin acoustic but plugged in it's way short of the best I've played. All that said, the real question is can that Taylor go up against the 4 horsemen of the apocalypse? At $k I'd expect nothing short of an end to plague, pestilence, famine, flood and commercial TV. Sending man hugs from Oxford UK.
I'm actually (silently) with you that tone is less important than feel, but we can't say that out loud on RUclips of those Tone Horsemen will come for us.
$4000 ? Most people wouldnt think twice paying that for a cheap car, which will for most people only be used %5 of the time, depreciate quick and not last long. If your a professional musician and its your living, then this is a tool of your trade and you need the best.
So much of it boils down to personal preference. Taylor makes some great guitars and that is certainly one of them. But of all the guitars that I've tried that I can't afford to buy, there's always been something, like a tinny component in the sound, or maybe a bit too much brightness? in Taylors that kept me away. But again, that's just personal preference that I prefer a warmer woody sound I guess.
Sean, I recently had the opportunity to play this and a BE 324. And tbh I enjoyed playing the 324 more. Now, I’ll have to admit the 816 did sound better, but the 324 spoke to me! I didn’t want to give her back.
Wondering if, also, that 2nd sound hole is directing some sound waves to the strings, to enhance the sympathetic vibrations, or sustain the overtones, or boost their function?
It sounds terrific, turns you on and fits well with your music. It even sounds good using the pickup, which usually sucks in most acoustic guitars. Jeremy Sheppard (Guitar Hunter) uploaded a vid yesterday where he compares a variety of pickup systems to their mic'd sound and I thought Taylor's Expression system was the only one that sounded natural. My equivalent to your older Taylor is a Dowina Chardonnay GA (Dolomite spruce & walnut), which I bought used for under $900. Dowina is a small Slovakian company that makes terrific guitars at reasonable prices. Imo the best sounding guitar Jeremy used in his video was a Furch Red Series GA that I'm glad I never played because I might have to have it and it cost at least three times what I paid for the Dowina. I thought it sounded like my guitar only better and since Furch is a neighboring Czech company I found it interesting that they shared the kind of sound I was looking for in a Grand Auditorium body. It's different than your Taylor and to my ears and for my purposes it's sweeter.
@@seandaniel23 A guy named A.G.Ober uses one to record the kind of songs I'd like to be able to play decently someday: ruclips.net/video/79XQTZ27Mh4/видео.html
Gorgeous sounding, I HATE Venetian cutaway look, though, but a no-cutaway model would be my sh**. Just a quirk that’s all my fault but ya know. Just bought a Epiphone J45 wine red (white batwing pickquard) the newest 1964 reissue with a Fishman…normally $800 but negotiated down to $550ish. I’m used to playing cheap, tight, high-action, heavy-stringed guitars, making my own saddles and adding incremental appointments to get more volume, so Being able to play a guitar that, with 53-12 string gauge, with a 24.75 scale is nice for me. Your Taylor sounds better, don’t get me wrong…like a dred volume with the articulation of a small double or triple O. But, if you can find one, highly recommend the Epi j45…save a couple thousand $ and comparable sound and appointments. Bless.
Well, you’ll be going up in price quite a bit, however, if you want to hear some acoustics that will blow that Taylor out of the water look for an Olson or a Ryan. James Taylor has played an Olson for years and a Ryan will set you back anything from 10 to 40 grand but I guarantee it will make your Taylor sound like a 100 dollar Yamaha
Theres always someone tougher and there is always someting better. Any taylor is a great guitar.... but when you get into the 800 series , its on like donkey kong
I picked up a new 816ce BE for a great price, and it's a great guitar, especially for playing alone or when only one guitar is in play. When paired with another (fingerpicking) guitarist my Taylor 514ce QS TD is a better match though, blending with it much better in a mix. This is counter intuitive as a rosewood guitar is usually sonically more scooped and should allow more 'space' in the middle of the spectrum. I have replaced the micarta bridge with a bone one, I prefer that sound. I agree that it really plays very well, slightly easier than the 514 which has medium light strings (816 = shorter scale, light strings so that's logical). It's indeed very loud and full. The ES2 is indeed quite good, but this can be improved by using a proper IR. For this I have recorded my 816 with a Rode M3 microphone and computed the IR using a custom algorithm. Give it a go, it's a 48 kHz 32 bit float WAV file, you can find it here: drive.google.com/file/d/1tAwUnnswOmLP7v5NsOalcgXwNSHDQ32D/view?usp=share_link Cheers
Thanks for making this video. Yo've helped me decide to not get a soyndport on my guitar. I can only afford one and I need the cutaway, and was wondering if the soundport cutaway was accessible like a standard CE model. I love the idea of the soundport and it looks and sounds great but i can't compromise on playability. Stunning guitar though.
Hello Sean, I own one of these guitars but don't play it as much as I would like, I find its hard pressing the strings down, it comes with twelves and I'm thinking of going with thirteens but don't want to lose any sound, do you find it hard to play or is it just me, I noticed in this video that your playing a lot of bar chords and make it look easy. Love the song and the music, beautiful.
I own 5 taylor guitars and i do like them a lot but i have never been able to reconcile the price difference with the sound difference. My latest purchase is a koa model which i enjoy the sound of and i sampled the american dream at the same time which turned me off completely . i could not believe that this was a taylor. but anyway this is my opinion .
Really enjoy seeing you here thanks for your effort, appreciated.
I'm an intermediate standard and for my retirement just treated myself to the 814ce.
It sounds sweeter, stays in tune longer, and is far easier to play than my Yamaha FG401. Feels very special and I know any faults are mine, not the guitar.
I also know I won't suffer any buyers regret, thinking I should have gone for something better. I ride a Ducati Monster 1200R, a bike which far surpasses my ability as a biker. The 814 is the same, inspires me to improve every time I pick it up.
Happy strumming Sean from the UK.
I have to agree. Currently have 5 Taylors. Absolutely love them all.
I have three Taylor, guitars of my own, I got the 814 that I bought in 2020, the one has a Bibble on the side, I have a 314, and the 5 to 4. Great playing guitars. All by Taylor as well.
I only have one Taylor but it seems like this is gonna change after tonight.
I’ve played about 8 of the best guitars I ever played. 😅 They were all different sounds but all had beautiful resonance and dynamic response. I’d suggest not limiting your search to one brand.
Love the song at the end.
Adriana has "it", that special quality of voice that is now instantly recognisable.
She's pretty great :)
@@seandaniel23 Yes. Pretty & Gr8 👁👁.
Good at retrieving watches in the rain too 🤣🤣
Nothing like finding a guitar that feels and sounds sweeter than what you knew before
You know it Mike!
To your point, when my brother was going to buy a new guitar a number of years ago...it was between a Taylor cutaway and I think a Gibson Hummingbird or something similar. He didn't find too many differences and was leaning toward the non Taylor. The sales clerk had my brother sit in front while the clerk played each guitar so he could fully hear them. He immediately bought the Taylor.
The ultimate test :)
I have always avoided Taylor because I was ignorant. I set out to buy a Gibson J-185 late last summer and stumbled upon a Taylor 314ce with a Torrified Sitka top and Sapele back and sides………I Love it! It is my go-to acoustic guitar! I like it more than my Martin, PRS, and 1905 Washburn that has been in my family since 1925. I am trying to become worthy of my Taylor!
Shawn, I’m a tailor guitar kind of guy, I have three Taylor guitars, my favorite is the 814CE, I bought that in 2020, I have a 5 to 4, and also at 314 as well. Love, my tailors, the playability is awesome,
Taylors are my personal favorite instruments. Not just the instruments, but the company as a whole.
Their Grand Pacific is my best personal fit, and I love their GS Mini.
Grand pacific is such a good one.
Taylor is a Socialist Co-Op Company; the workers bought the Company and own it! They have REAL Democratic meetings where they vote on the decisions for the health of the Company instead of hedge fund corrupt folks and one owner! They decided to continue to create THE best modern acoustics in the world and that's not what happens to Companies that sell as Taylor was doing! They vote Democratically who's the Pres, if they join the markets, their pay, healthcare, pensions, THEY OWN THE MONEY AND THEY WON'T SELL OUT FOR CHEAP PROFITS LIKE CAPITALIST CORPERATIONS ALWAYS DO! This is the new Freedom the world wants, to control our lives without corporate masters that ALWAYS without care, destroy their workers lives and products before they have to change their lifestyles, NOT VERY HEALTHY AS WE ARE WATCHHING THE RESULTS HERE IN THE u.s., FACT!!
It's great how you make rhythm cool no loud distortion or lead stuff just for is rhythm guys
Tryin my best!
That guitar sounds really lively and balanced. I'm sure even a piece of firewood would sound good in your hands, though! Great vid as always.
Aw thanks!
I just had a similar experience. I bought a Gibson J-45, and it blew my Taylor 414ce out of the water both in sound and playability. Before that, I loved my Taylor and figured it was the pinnacle of what an acoustic guitar could be, but this J-45 is in an entirely different universe, and now when I go back to my Taylor it feels like I'm playing a 2x4 and sounds completely dead.
killing me.... best guitar I've played is my 414ce
He must have gotten a dud 414 ce. Mine is Awesome.
Guess you haven't played guitar very long. There is no such thing as a "pinnacle guitar." I love all in my own collection which includes Gibsons and Taylors and your claim Taylor is less playable than Gibson is dubious.
Agree with you, j45 is the best
I bought a J45 Standard brand new in 2021…outstanding guitar.
I'm sure I haven't played anywhere near as many as you have, but the best sounding (if not the best "playing" maybe) is my '53 Martin D-28. Talk about volume and sustain! Can't hold a candle to this beautiful Taylor cosmetically of course...it has it's share of well earned nicks and bumps over the last almost 70 years! 😄
wow the fullness of the guitar sounds amazing. I'm gonna have to hit Sweetwater sound when they get more in stock and hear it in person :D
It's a good idea :)
I've owned a Taylor 816 CE for many years and it still remains my favorite (among the many I still own/play and have had over the years) for many of the reasons you mentioned in the video. The downside you mentioned doesn't exist on the older 816 CE's which are true cutaways with the same electronics. And, as an aside, your videos are a real treat (and often a hoot) without pretense that usually has great adaptable practical techniques. Keep doing what you're doing, it's appreciated.
Just recently sold my 816ce BE, and I agree, it's hands down the best guitar I've ever played. Only sold it because I found a custom GS - spruce over mahogany, black, and VERY blingy (essentially my dream guitar). Basically the 816, but glammed up! So now I have the best of both worlds - the best sounding/playing guitar, and one I have googly eyes for. Cheers, enjoy!
It’s decent…
Congrats on 400k, Sean! I seem to recall you were at 58k when I started watching.
I'm starting to see guitars like people. There's all kinds with there own unique qualities. I had 3 Taylor's, one was liberated. Looking forward to someday owning a SC 28.
There it is. It rings like a bell. The GS is my favourite body shape from Taylor.
Dude give some props to the violinist!😎
He's legit the best on earth
I just bought myself a Taylor 724ce and it is the best guitar I’ve played by far! Love a good Taylor
I had a 2016 Taylor 816ce that I owned for about 4 years. Not the builders edition. Paid around $3200 for it. Ultimately I sold it because I fell in love with a Taylor 324ce ($2200). There’s a definite sweet spot with Taylor guitars when balancing features and price. For me it’s the 3/4/5/6 series. Loved that 816, but that was a lot of dough and I lean more towards the way you previously thought, the higher you go…it’s just bells and whistles
I know a lot of people love the 324s. I need to check one out!
@@seandaniel23 Blackwood back and sides, mahogany top…just a touch darker in tones than most Taylors. Love it. Oh, meant to add…the 816 I had sounded HUGE the bigger body shape is super fun. You feel it against you as you play. I can only imagine that the extra sound hole on your builder takes it to another level.
The best guitar I've ever played? It's got to be a Furch Yellow GC-SR: grand auditorium with a cutaway, spruce and rosewood.
It's wonderfully responsive to both delicate and heavy playing, has excellent sustain and such rich, rich tone. In some ways it's comparable to Taylor's I've played, especially in terms of playability. It's quite similar to the 714c in fact, but only about 60% of the price. I've owned my Furch for nearly a year and am still blown away by its tone each time I play it.
I always had the same thought process as you about any guitar priced over let’s say the $2,000 mark. I owned a Taylor 814ce about 12 years ago and like an idiot sold it. That 816 is pretty darn special for sure. I think if Taylor would just eliminate the so called cutaway they could lower the price because of the reduction in labor. I don’t like the look of it either. Your playing and Adrians’s vocals were something I would pay to sit and listen to if I had the opportunity. Well done.
Sean you are getting better as ever.
before this video I thought this was the ultimate acoustic I had to have. The one downside you noted, trying to slide to a high fret position may be a deal breaker for me. One of the primary reasons I wanted a Taylor was the brighter sound and the cutaway for playing high notes. I may look at other Taylor options now. Thanks, Sensei!
Glad it was helpful! Yes, it's SUCH a great guitar, but def not a 'true' cutaway.
I am going to give you a suggestion, get the Taylor, 814 builders edition, awesome Guitar, I already have the 814 CE, but the builders edition is a great guitar and it’s a cutaway. Grandela thorium.
Always went to guitar stores and played Taylor’s. Loved the way they felt, and played, like most people agree, they are so comfortable and easy to play, but the sound just wasn’t what I wanted in a guitar. I had the most typical reaction, too much treble, too bright etc. Then on one visit I tripped over a 416ce. Was blown away! Now I own (3) 16s (Grand Symphony) in different models, and looking for #4. If you are like me, try a 16 model in your favorite tone wood. Just be aware they come with and recommend medium gauge strings for the guitar because of the large top.
It definitely has a sweet and unique voice.
I'd watched a bunch of your videos before, but I had never really heard your music, there are so many musicians on" the tube " (before this video), And then I listened to the stuff you posted on this video, and IMHO that music I heard was really entertaining I really enjoy it, you have your own groove, the music is fresh and I really enjoyed listening to it. thanks a shit load, really good music, "did I say really enough" Good shit, man!!!!
Thanks so much for taking the time! Glad you liked it!
You are the reason I own two GA3s. They are the only Taylor’s I own and consider myself mostly a Martin man but I do love the tone from those GA3s.
Such a great guitar.
Hey from Calgary Canada. I just pulled the trigger on a Taylor Koa. Love it. NB. Play the specific guitar you are buying. Subtle differences even within models.
I have 2 Taylors. A 110e, my daily driver and a 224 grand auditorium urban ash. I also had a D28 which I recently gave away to a good home. The neck on the Martin is just different enough I couldn’t adjust. I love my Taylors.
I have a Taylor GS , maple back/sides,
Love the comfort sizing,
You more than earned the guitar…
Wasn’t free.
Thanks so much Ira!
I do like the GS shape. I played a Taylor GS Maple ( brown sugar) 12 string that blew me away. Best sounding 12 string I ever played. Wish I had bought it at the time.
I LOVE the cut away sound port on both the 816ce and the 326ce. It's like playing in 5.1 Dolby surround sound..
Great video and it's always nice to hear Juliana
Thanks Cam! We've only played it 5,000 times at this point.
@@seandaniel23 it's still a banger
Ok, here's the opposing view on the Taylor 816e. I had one and I really liked it. I had no intention of selling, ever. One day in my local guitar shop I picked up a Yamaha AC3M DLX. I just could not believe that I was liking the sound better than my Taylor 816ce. I went back the next day, sat with the Yamaha for about an hour and I walked out with it and sold my Taylor 816ce. Taylor 816CE=$4000.00 Yamaha AC3M Dlx I believe was $900.00. It's not that I'm saying the Taylor 816ce isn't a fabulous guitar because it is. To my ear (I admit that it's an old ear) the Yamaha was a better sounding instrument.
You're definitely right that sometimes a particular guitar will just seem like 'the one'. Glad you found it!
Kevin; David Crosby tells a very similar story with Takemini(sp?)
The 816 is a great guitar. Not gonna lie I personally still love your ga3. Love the sound. I have the 114e and it sounds beautiful. Great vid!!
Great review. Thanks for your honesty about Taylor buying you the guitar.
That guitar sounds so good! Got a 314ce so I'm not looking to upgrade.. well.. I wasn't..
Haha, I hear ya! 314s are amazing! My main guitar forever was a Taylor GA3 which is kinda the same thing, love it.
I’ve got a 314 as well, great guitar.
The thing about Taylor's is what you don't see in any one guitar but is present in every guitar across the line. The neck setting system is just so repeatable and efficient. So if you are a traveling artist and your guitar gets damaged, you can go to Guitar Center and walk out with a replacement and it will play the same, and sound quite close. You could sift through a boutique luthier's guitars and maybe find one that you like better, but if something goes sideways you can't replace it. I would love to know how many times Leo Kottke has had to get an emergency replacement on the road. He is hard on his equipment, but anywhere in the US he can get a replacement that plays the same and sounds enough the same in probably 4 hours.
So true. they all play great across the board.
I have a Taylor AD17 and it plays great, but it sounds like a mini. The best guitar I've ever played is my Orangewood Ecko (Live). A deeper sound and it plays so easily (smooth). I always go through the action and make sure it set to a 'Low-Med.' action. At the rear action and Nut, the strings are dead-on.
Very cool Stephen, I have an Orangewood Sage that I like a lot.
Sounds great. Thats how I feel about my Taylor 414ce-R. I played 17 guitars ( 5 brands ) and choose this guitar = Sound & playability was incredible. I'm not as high on the ES-2 system as you. oNe LoVe from NYC
I’ve been “playing” guitar since 11/2017. I just know chords, I make up my own stuff, I don’t know a single song really BUT, Taylor has always felt the best across all of their models to me I felt during my time testing guitars relentlessly at my local GC and Sam Ash dealers. My favorite overall guitar I owned was a 000-18, and my favorite sounding ANDA playing guitar was a Yamaha LS-26. I prefer the GA/S/000 body styles and less gimmicks when playing as well. I love these types of videos Sean. I guess you’re feeling a little better after COViD? Thank goodness!
Awesome. I'm getting LS56 Custom II ARE.
@@pankajjoshi2032 I want an LS so bad! I’m excited for you.
I love watching people fight over Taylor vs Martin. I wanted to offer up the idea that it's okay to love them both. I do, anyway. I'm fortunate enough to have a Taylor K24ce Builders Edition and a Martin oo-28vs 12 fret. Couldn't be more different and I couldn't love them both more. If someone asked me to pick the better one I couldn't.
Congrats with 400K!!!
Thanks so much Dexter!
Congrats on 400k subscribers!
Thanks so much!
It does sound good glad you found your favorite. My favorite is martin d28
I really enjoyed the sound of the violin and guitar together - really got my attention. I have a Martin HD 28 which I love - plays really well and has a great sound. I have a Taylor GS mini which plays really nice as well.
I had a Taylor that I loved, but after my Martin 000-18e, I sold it. Never heard or played a guitar that touched it. Including my buddy's D41. Although comparing a 000 to a dreadnought is Apples and oranges of course. Not a bluegrass guitar, but sounds incredibly warm and plays like butter.
Adriana Super sweet sounding vocals ! Great picking as always Sean.
Im suprised.. I never really cared for expensive taylors but that one sounds pretty freakin' good
Passionate beautiful vocals with excellent unassuming guitar accompaniment ♥️🌹🤗🤗🤗
Thanks so much!
I bought my first Taylor yesterday and I can’t stop playing it is the best I’ve ever had..the always told me that Taylor guitars where the best..the only thing is the price after tax it came down to 2000 dollars for a guitar.
I totally agree about the cutaway. I'm keeping mine anyways.
I think you are only missing a solid demo reel to land that Hallmark role. 😅
Congrats on the 400k!
Thanks so much! Demo reel coming soon ;)
I still love the sound of my D-42 and my old D-28, that said my last 2 guitars have been Taylor's. I tend to buy them to fill a sound.
I own Ten high end guitars and seven are Taylors, 1980 Martin D-28 in mint condition with original case and key and a new Gibson J-45 sixties model and I love everyone of my guitars but Taylor are my favorite.Ive owned twelve different Martin guitars including a D-45 and this 1980 is the best sounding Martin I've ever heard but I got a 2015 614ce that most people think sounds better than the Martin, Gibson has the Martin beat I think also,But when I go to my 914ce and K-24 ce and my 814ceDLX and my816ce then it's hard to choose from these guitars,I love the 614ce so much I bought a 2019 614ce builders edition WHB.I just never had except my 1980 Martin guitar been a Martin guy,Taylor hands down my favorite guitars then Gibsons and Guilds my second choice and don't really think theres a better Martin guitar than my 1980 but it still rates third.Also have a Baby Taylor and a Epiphone Dove that really surprised me how easy and good sounding for a much inexpensive guitar than my others.😮I bought my 816ce brand new in 2015 mine don't have the sound port the only guitar i didn't buy brand new is my 1980 Martin D-28.
Hands down is an Olson, but mucho bucks and it may require a new homeowner's insurance policy or negotiations regarding first born children to get near one of these. 2nd is probably my Taylor 814 CE or a Moon (a Scottish builder) 'Dougie Maclean Signature'. My Martin D-35 and D-35-12 are pretty nice too. The D-41 is a little disappointing though but it's pretty. The Taylor got all my attention for a couple years much to the chagrin of the rest of the stable. Anyhoo, about 10 years ago I started tuning my top 6 steel string performers in different open tunings to save time; C, D, DADGAD, E and Std. Usually with string sets optimized for each. Usually leave the 12 detuned a half or whole tone for playability, hand cramps and neck stress; no truss rods in any of my Martins. I have had a couple neck resets over the years to optimize the Martins for me. But there all keepers for life.
I have 36 guitars and the Taylor gs6 is my favorite. No thrill sound machine.
You can tell the difference and the 816ce sounds incredible. I guess when you are comparing guitars from the same builder, I would think spending more would get you a better sounding guitar. I do love the tone and there is a clear difference.
I was just watching a you tube demo of the Taylor 414 CE,
and it sounded way better. It was an Alamo Music review demo.
To sum up then... the only thing that is wrong with the guitar is the gimmick (and you don't like bells and whistles anyway) which is probably what Taylor was hoping to be the big selling point... I suspect less visits will be afforded to you at Taylor but I'm pleased that your review on this guitar is honest. I wouldn't pay 4K for an acoustic regardless. Great videos btw regards
I have a pretty good relationship with them so I think they actually enjoy the feedback. It's tough though, because one of my favorite things about it is the secondary sound port, but my least favorite thing is the cutaway...but the cutaway IS the secondary port!
For $4k, it better be a great guitar. I have a Taylor guitar and I love the sounds it produces. It is a 114e which is closer to the entry level guitars they offer than that 4k one, but even so, it sounds and plays wonderfully. So, I guess you could say I'm a Taylor fan boy because if anyone asks, I'll direct them to check out Taylor guitars over any other mass produced guitars.
The 114s are so good!
I have a Taylor 114ce. And love it. I see more and more guys on here playing Taylor’s all the time. If I could afford a more expensive model I would definitely get one. Taylor forever 👍
Bought an 812 DLX 12fret, similar praise for my guitar
ooo i've seen those! So cool!
Loved the guitar, top end Taylor's are really hard to beat. Also loved the song, is that an original from you guys?
A week or so ago I was in Musicians Workshop, an Asheville music shop that has room dedicated to Taylor acoustics and I spent some time going around the room and played some of the more expensive Taylors. Admittedly the G816 was not one of them. I didn't see any more expensive than $2500. However, each of them seemed to fall short of the Larrivee I own and love. Like your G83 it cost me about $1200 and when I compared it to an older Taylor being sold for $2500 the Larrivee sounded and felt as good if not better. I encourage you to try one. I am not trying to change your mind about your Taylor although I know there are other guitar makers out there, way out of my price range and aside from Larrivee, that seem to have something that Taylor does not in their design.
I've heard amazing things about Larrivee, but somehow have never played one!
@@seandaniel23 Their factory is Oxnard now so the next time you're in LA check them out.
Great guitar and nice performance
My Taylor 810 is 24 years old and is the best I've played, but I would like to try an 816 for comparison.
I have carefully drilled 1-1/2" soundports into the upper part of lower bought of 4 of my guitars to provide a better unamplified player sound. Several RUclips videos on how to do this "surgery" without damaging guitar finish.
I will 100% NEVER attempt this
@@seandaniel23 exactly what I was thinking.
Where can I find this song!? I love it, need to have it!
How about you do a comparison with the Martin which you thought was your dream guitar at the time
I thought about that but it's kinda unfair. The D-35 is just so DIFFERENT. Maybe I still will though
@@seandaniel23 that would be cool. Maybe don't approach it as a shootout, maybe approach it as two of the top American companies and highlight their differences. So people can choose which one is right for them and their application.
I would also pay full price for the 2nd one if the first one was free, honest!
I’ve only been playing off and on for 10 years. Five years ago I had a 316 CE all my friends said The Guitar sounded amazing. I had to let it go three years ago, a regret that lingers more than any human love I’ve had to let go. Taylor has since discontinued that model… I will find love again someday. Who said you can’t buy love? US$4000.
I have played a lot of high end guitars and I have to say my Martin D-28 has met and exceeded my expectations. I have also built a few guitars and toured the Martin , Gibson and Collins factories and still come back to the Martin. The Taylors always seem to have a compressed sound which I am not a fan of. By the way, what happened to your Martin D-35?
You'll be seeing the D35 later this week. Love that guitar. Just a different sound/feel but it's amazing.
I've played several Taylor's. I don't think they are better than any other higher end guitars. Think CF Martin.
Yes, but yes. It's very nice but in my experience as a CSGB (Compulsive Serial Guitar Buyer) and a compulsive Cereal buyer I find that the tone is a touch less important than the feel. Plugged in tone can be tweaked but it's all about the playability me thinks. I'm lucky to have a really nice Martin acoustic but plugged in it's way short of the best I've played. All that said, the real question is can that Taylor go up against the 4 horsemen of the apocalypse? At $k I'd expect nothing short of an end to plague, pestilence, famine, flood and commercial TV. Sending man hugs from Oxford UK.
I'm actually (silently) with you that tone is less important than feel, but we can't say that out loud on RUclips of those Tone Horsemen will come for us.
$4000 ? Most people wouldnt think twice paying that for a cheap car, which will for most people only be used %5 of the time, depreciate quick and not last long. If your a professional musician and its your living, then this is a tool of your trade and you need the best.
How have Hallmark not hired you yet?? 🤷🏻♀️ Congrats on 400k!
I found a second major flaw right away...
It has at least one 0 to much on the price tag! 😁
haha cmon!
@@seandaniel23 the sad reality is that I live with less than that price tag for a whole year...
I play Taylor 🎸 guitars…..
I like Martin and I want a 00028… But if I had to have only one guitar, it would be a Taylor 814ce builders edition.
You all need to check out Larrivee.
I want to!
So much of it boils down to personal preference. Taylor makes some great guitars and that is certainly one of them. But of all the guitars that I've tried that I can't afford to buy, there's always been something, like a tinny component in the sound, or maybe a bit too much brightness? in Taylors that kept me away. But again, that's just personal preference that I prefer a warmer woody sound I guess.
Sean, I recently had the opportunity to play this and a BE 324. And tbh I enjoyed playing the 324 more. Now, I’ll have to admit the 816 did sound better, but the 324 spoke to me! I didn’t want to give her back.
Check out some Gibson Acoustics. Completely different sound from Taylor and Martin. Great feel, necks, and sounds.
I actually tried a G45 last month and really, really like it!
@@seandaniel23 try a j185, or a hummingbird. You'll be hooked.
Wondering if, also, that 2nd sound hole is directing some sound waves to the strings, to enhance the sympathetic vibrations, or sustain the overtones, or boost their function?
It sounds terrific, turns you on and fits well with your music. It even sounds good using the pickup, which usually sucks in most acoustic guitars. Jeremy Sheppard (Guitar Hunter) uploaded a vid yesterday where he compares a variety of pickup systems to their mic'd sound and I thought Taylor's Expression system was the only one that sounded natural.
My equivalent to your older Taylor is a Dowina Chardonnay GA (Dolomite spruce & walnut), which I bought used for under $900. Dowina is a small Slovakian company that makes terrific guitars at reasonable prices. Imo the best sounding guitar Jeremy used in his video was a Furch Red Series GA that I'm glad I never played because I might have to have it and it cost at least three times what I paid for the Dowina. I thought it sounded like my guitar only better and since Furch is a neighboring Czech company I found it interesting that they shared the kind of sound I was looking for in a Grand Auditorium body. It's different than your Taylor and to my ears and for my purposes it's sweeter.
Sounds like you got yourself a winner!
@@seandaniel23 A guy named A.G.Ober uses one to record the kind of songs I'd like to be able to play decently someday: ruclips.net/video/79XQTZ27Mh4/видео.html
Sean, did you do a setup on it or have you been playing it with standard setup? Or, maybe they did a setup for you?
Best is subjective but I think you should try a McPherson 4.5. Great Taylor you got there btw.
Haha isn’t that McPherson like 10,000.00?
Gorgeous sounding, I HATE Venetian cutaway look, though, but a no-cutaway model would be my sh**. Just a quirk that’s all my fault but ya know. Just bought a Epiphone J45 wine red (white batwing pickquard) the newest 1964 reissue with a Fishman…normally $800 but negotiated down to $550ish. I’m used to playing cheap, tight, high-action, heavy-stringed guitars, making my own saddles and adding incremental appointments to get more volume, so Being able to play a guitar that, with 53-12 string gauge, with a 24.75 scale is nice for me. Your Taylor sounds better, don’t get me wrong…like a dred volume with the articulation of a small double or triple O. But, if you can find one, highly recommend the Epi j45…save a couple thousand $ and comparable sound and appointments. Bless.
Love my taylor!!!
Well, you’ll be going up in price quite a bit, however, if you want to hear some acoustics that will blow that Taylor out of the water look for an Olson or a Ryan. James Taylor has played an Olson for years and a Ryan will set you back anything from 10 to 40 grand but I guarantee it will make your Taylor sound like a 100 dollar Yamaha
Theres always someone tougher and there is always someting better.
Any taylor is a great guitar.... but when you get into the 800 series , its on like donkey kong
You know it!
I picked up a new 816ce BE for a great price, and it's a great guitar, especially for playing alone or when only one guitar is in play. When paired with another (fingerpicking) guitarist my Taylor 514ce QS TD is a better match though, blending with it much better in a mix. This is counter intuitive as a rosewood guitar is usually sonically more scooped and should allow more 'space' in the middle of the spectrum. I have replaced the micarta bridge with a bone one, I prefer that sound.
I agree that it really plays very well, slightly easier than the 514 which has medium light strings (816 = shorter scale, light strings so that's logical). It's indeed very loud and full.
The ES2 is indeed quite good, but this can be improved by using a proper IR. For this I have recorded my 816 with a Rode M3 microphone and computed the IR using a custom algorithm. Give it a go, it's a 48 kHz 32 bit float WAV file, you can find it here: drive.google.com/file/d/1tAwUnnswOmLP7v5NsOalcgXwNSHDQ32D/view?usp=share_link
Cheers
Try a set of D’Addario XT’s.
Thanks for making this video. Yo've helped me decide to not get a soyndport on my guitar. I can only afford one and I need the cutaway, and was wondering if the soundport cutaway was accessible like a standard CE model. I love the idea of the soundport and it looks and sounds great but i can't compromise on playability. Stunning guitar though.
interesting choice but have you tried a Martin OMJM? that's the one i have and i wouldn't trade for any Taylor in the world.
I haven't tried it but i should!
Hello Sean, I own one of these guitars but don't play it as much as I would like, I find its hard pressing the strings down, it comes with twelves and I'm thinking of going with thirteens but don't want to lose any sound, do you find it hard to play or is it just me, I noticed in this video that your playing a lot of bar chords and make it look easy. Love the song and the music, beautiful.
I own 5 taylor guitars and i do like them a lot but i have never been able to reconcile the price difference with the sound difference. My latest purchase is a koa model which i enjoy the sound of and i sampled the american dream at the same time which turned me off completely . i could not believe that this was a taylor. but anyway this is my opinion .
Such a great guitar! Why don’t you use it in your videos since this one?