A New Voice in the Taylor Family
Meet the Taylor 117e, a guitar that brings the rich, warm, and seasoned tone of Taylor’s Grand Pacific round-shoulder dreadnought to a whole new level of accessibility. This isn’t just another dreadnought. The Grand Pacific body shape, combined with innovative C-Class bracing, creates a voice that’s pure Taylor, but with a vibe all its own. It produces a powerful low end and a rounder, more vintage-inspired character. It’s a guitar that feels both familiar and excitingly new, perfect for players who want classic tone with modern playability.
Spruce & Sapele: A Classic Combo, Elevated
The magic starts with a solid spruce top, a legendary tonewood known for its clarity and projection. Paired with layered sapele back and sides, which provide a punchy and direct midrange similar to mahogany, the 117e delivers a balanced and articulate sound. The matte finish isn’t just for looks; it’s a thin coating that lets the wood breathe and resonate freely, enhancing the guitar’s natural warmth and volume.
C-Class Bracing & ES2 Electronics
Under the hood, Taylor’s C-Class bracing is the engine driving the tone. This asymmetrical, cantilevered design is a variation of the acclaimed V-Class system, boosting volume, sustain, and creating a truly impressive bass response without the muddiness. When you’re ready to plug in, the onboard Expression System 2 (ES2) electronics capture all that acoustic goodness. With three uniquely positioned sensors behind the saddle, the ES2 translates the guitar’s dynamic range into a clean, authentic, and full amplified tone, ready for the stage or the studio.
