The Best of Both Worlds: Vintage Warmth, Modern Power
Meet the Taylor Gold Label 817e SB—a guitar that blends old-school soul with cutting-edge craftsmanship. This isn’t just another dreadnought. It’s a Grand Pacific, Taylor’s round-shoulder dreadnought, built with a deeper body that unlocks a whole new level of warmth and low-end power. The stunning sunburst finish on the torrefied spruce top isn’t just for looks; it’s a nod to the warm, played-in tone waiting inside. This guitar doesn’t just make sound—it makes a statement.
Tone Woods That Inspire
The heart of the 817e’s voice comes from its tonewoods. We’re talking a **torrefied Sitka spruce top** paired with **solid Honduran rosewood** back and sides. The torrefaction process ages the spruce, giving it the rich, mellow character of a vintage instrument right out of the case. Honduran rosewood is incredibly dense, producing lush, complex overtones and a smooth, powerful voice. Together, they create a sound that’s both rumbling and articulate, with clear highs and a truly expansive low end.
The V-Class Engine
Under the hood, Taylor’s revolutionary **fanned V-Class bracing** is the engine driving this guitar’s incredible performance. It’s not just about volume; it’s about creating notes that are more in tune with each other, all the way up the neck. You get longer sustain and a more musical, orderly sound that’s a dream to record. Every chord blooms with rich harmonic texture, and single notes sing with purpose.
Plugged-In Perfection
When you’re ready to hit the stage, the onboard **LR Baggs Element VTC** electronics have you covered. This isn’t your average undersaddle pickup. It’s designed to capture the dynamic movement of the guitar’s top, translating the 817e’s natural acoustic warmth into a detailed, vibrant plugged-in tone. It’s transparent, responsive, and ready for any stage or studio.
Unmatched Playability
From the satin-finished Neo-Tropical Mahogany neck with its comfortable Standard Carve to the elegant West African Crelicam Ebony fingerboard, every detail is crafted for effortless playability. The grained ivoroid armrest adds a touch of comfort for long sessions, while the antique chrome Gotoh 510 tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability. This is a guitar that feels as good as it sounds.
