I was thrilled to get my hands on the new Builder’s Edition model K14ce from Taylor Guitars. I was most interested in the latest construction design by Taylor’s Master Guitar Designer Andy Powers which covers everything from body and neck comfort to the V-shaped bracing system which will revolutionize sound projection for acoustic guitars.
Once I placed the beveled cutaway in my lap and started to play, I immediately noticed a difference in the way the guitar felt under my right strumming arm, and even in my lap, from other acoustics I have played. There is a beveled edge on top of the body which is not unique among Taylor designs, but the beveling concept has been expanded to go around the entire body on the top and the bottom which gives it a violin kind of comfort, no sharp edges on this guitar- simply soft, rounded edges making it a delight to hold and to play for hours at a time. There is even a beveled edge in the cutaway making it comfortable while making your way up the neck.
The most amazing aspect of this instrument is the innovative V-Class bracing which creates more volume and sustain, two very important attributes in an acoustic guitar. This new bracing system, a Taylor innovation, replaces the X bracing system which has been the conventional wisdom of acoustic guitar design.
When I played this guitar, I noticed that the notes rang out loud and clear and the ring would last much longer than my other high-end acoustics. As I played, I was taken by the streamlined features of the body and the neck. It’s really a guitar that anyone could enjoy regardless of the size or strength of their hands- well, it’s like a concert in your arm!
For detailed specifications, visit www.taylorguitars.com.
We had a chance to chat with Andy Power while at NAMM to learn a little more about the concept behind the V-Class bracing system.
