Next-Gen Feel, Found-Sound Soul
Right out of the case, the Taylor Builder’s Edition 514ce feels like an old friend, but plays like nothing else on the rack. This isn’t just another Grand Auditorium; it’s a complete rethink of what a player-centric acoustic can be. Taylor paired a classic Sitka spruce top with a fascinating new tonewood: Shamel ash, sourced from city trees in need of removal. The result is a voice that’s woody, dry, and incredibly focused, with a warm midrange character that reminds us of the best mahogany guitars, but with its own unique personality.
Built for the Player’s Touch
The “Builder’s Edition” name isn’t just marketing, it’s a promise of comfort. Every contour on this guitar is designed to make the instrument feel like an extension of yourself. You’ll immediately notice the beveled armrest, which takes the pressure off your strumming arm during long sessions. The beveled cutaway offers effortless access to the highest frets, its smooth, rounded edge a welcome touch for your fretting hand. Even the body edges are chamfered, creating a seamless, intimate playing experience that lets you forget the guitar is even there.
The Power of V-Class, Refined
Under the hood, Taylor’s scalloped V-Class bracing with a special relief rout is the engine driving this guitar’s voice. It delivers that signature V-Class blend of room-filling volume and laser-like intonation, but it’s been tweaked to enhance the warmth and resonance of the Shamel ash back and sides. Chords bloom with sustain, single notes have weight and presence, and the entire guitar feels alive against your body. Paired with the new Action Control Neck, which uses a long-tenon joint for added low-end and easy setup adjustments, this guitar is a tonal powerhouse.
Stage-Ready, Studio-Approved
The 514ce comes equipped with Taylor’s new Claria Acoustic Pickup System. It’s an undersaddle pickup, reimagined for clarity and ease of use. The soundhole-mounted controls for Volume, Mid-contour, and Tone are intuitive and powerful, letting you dial in your sound without a fuss. It translates the guitar’s natural acoustic properties with transparency and warmth, making it a reliable partner on stage or in the studio. Finished with a stunning Kona Burst on the back and sides, a firestripe pickguard, and hyper-stable Gotoh 510 tuners, this guitar is a complete package for the serious musician.
