19/06/2021
This is a Taylor 414CE (Acoustic Electric).
It’s a 2011 model, and that’s relevant because Taylor redesigned their internal bracing scheme a few years ago (and concurrently hiked prices). From a playability standpoint, it doesn’t get much better, especially for a guitar player who played nylon strings for years and has stubby fingers and non-impressive reach. The action is amazing. Additionally, despite a rather thin neck, the high and low E strings are right out on the edge and this allows for wider string spacing.
I consider this model a Taylor “experiment” because the sides and back are made of ovangkol. (Even my original Sears and Roebuck Silvertone used rosewood). Ovangkol, from west Africa, is cheaper than mahogany or rosewood. I was not excited about the sound when it arrived. It was too bright and I missed the deep resonance of other acoustics I had played. If you want an example, I am convinced Steven Bishop used a similar guitar for his rendition of “Separate Lives.” However, this Taylor has mellowed some with age (which wood will do—unlike the manufactured body of my Ovation). Also, with the EQ and effect options provided by digital software these days, it remains my go-to studio guitar.
Early on, I wrote a couple of scathing reviews that I thought Taylor had cut corners with ovangkol. I was not the only disgruntled customer, since I saw several for sale on Ebay from owners who had purchased one (guitar owners seldom peddle their guitars—they just collect others). Taylor (of course) would not admit their mistake, most likely afraid there would be a total sales dive. Interestingly enough however, (and I consider this vindication), the ovangkol model has been discontinued:
https://www.taylorguitars.com/guitars/acoustic/414ce
