Taylor 814ce Grand Auditorium Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar (with Case)
The Taylor 814ce Grand Auditorium is a top-flight acoustic that sounds as good as it looks. With the Taylor ES system on board, the 814ce can't go wrong.
$4,499.00
- Interest-Free Payment Plans
Overall User Ratings (based on 41 ratings)
Submitted May 15, 2009 by a customer from thekearnsfamily.com
"My dream guitar...."
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When I made the jump from mid-range Martins to this, I wanted a guitar that I would never have to upgrade. I wanted an heirloom quality instrument that could be passed down. I have attained that goal with this guitar. It took me 14 years to finally get one, but it was money well spent. This model is a fantastic instrument. Like I said, you have to become a better musician to compete with this guitar.
Sound
No question about it, the best guitar I have ever played/owned. It sounds equally good plugged in as it does acoustically. Depending on your venue, if someone has an issue with Taylor, it lies with the Expression system. I have had no issues with it plugged into an acoustic amp, or directly into my PA. The sound is very clear and easily modified to your preference.
Features
The guitar comes with a delux case that fits it very well. The Expression system is the best pick-up I have used. The rosette and inlays are gorgeous. The only real differences between this one and the 900 series are cosmetic. Sound quality was the same. 900 has a head stock and bridge inlay. There wasn't a $800 difference to me.
Quality
This is a perfect guitar. The fit and finish are precise. Taylor prides themselves on cutting edge technology. Although the guitars are not by the letter "hand made," the precision they can attain is unmatched.
Value
OK, I will admit, this is not a purchase be taken lightly. The price tag is hefty. That being said, you will get what you pay for. This is a purchase you have to build your abilities up to. But when you buy it, open the case for the first time, and play it -- any worry about buyer's remorse is gone.
Manufacturer Support
When purchasing Taylor, don't expect to correspond with them via email. You will have to speak with them directly on the phone. That being said, I have never been on hold for more than 1-2 minutes and everyone I have spoke to is very knowledgeable. They also have a lot of videos that can be watched for usage and maintenance.
The Wow Factor
This is a beautiful, classy guitar. I don't know anyone who has played it and said they didn't want one of there own. It forces you to be a better guitarist, as you can't put it down. I compare every other guitar I own, or others that I try out to this -- they don't even compare most of the time.
Musical Background:
Active Musician
Musical Style:
Acoustic Rock
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Submitted March 4, 2005 by a customer from yahoo.com
"Taylor-made sound with beautiful rosewood back and sides."
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I'll supplement this guitar. My next purchase will be a grand concert, all koa Taylor (K22ce).
Sound
Has a nice, well-rounded, deep tone when it's not plugged in. The expression system does a nice job balancing all the strings, especially when it's plugged directly into a P.A. You can really tell the difference when it's plugged in next to a Fishman pickup. The people at Taylor did a real nice job on the E.S.
Features
Top quality guitar case, guitar cable (1/4" plug for guitar and XLR for PA/amp), and Expression System DVD. This cable makes the guitar sound much better than a double 1/4" cable.
Quality
Top quality rosewood back and sides. My sitka spruce top has several "bear claws", but Bob Taylor insists this does not affect the tonal quality of the guitar. I believe he is right. Some people like the looks, while others think it looks defective.
Manufacturer Support
Taylor is very responsive. They call back the same day and have useful information.
The Wow Factor
I traded my Santa Cruz Tony Rice guitar for this one. I had to have the E.S. and I love the rosewood. Taylor necks are the best. They are easy to play and just feel good.
Musical Background:
Active musician
Musical Style:
Rock and folk guitar, all styles drums.
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Submitted March 15, 2006 by a customer from juno.com
"Taylor, what else!!"
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I'll never replace it, I may add another later.
Sound
got rid of the Elixers, and put on Blue Steel acoustic, Big difference
Features
Expression system is the best accoustic pickup available
Ease of Use
free dvd helps on setting up the expression system to get the sound you want. I had to take to to a local guitar shop for some final set up, but it all but plays itself.
Value
little pricey, but worth it
Manufacturer Support
haven't had a problem
The Wow Factor
after researching, (don't know anyone else with one) I knew I had to have it.
Musical Background:
intermediate
Musical Style:
country/ soft rock
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Submitted February 1, 2008 by a customer from prodigy.net
"Love this thing"
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Can't think of a better guitar for me
Sound
Excellent sound quality - a Taylor so no surprises
Features
For the price could have more inlay etc., but that is not why I bought this one.
Ease of Use
I have not found a guitar that is more comfortable in my hands. In fact, it has spoiled me in that when I play others I wish I was playing this one.
Quality
Fit and finish tops. Love this thing.
Value
Price is high, but I think you do get what you pay for.
Manufacturer Support
I had a couple guestions about strings and they were very helpful. I don't know anyone who has had to get work done on theirs so I guess that speaks to why they can get back to you so fast when you call them.
The Wow Factor
Would but it again if it was stolen. Would by another if I had the cash in a different wood just for fun. The only bad thing is I don't want to hurt it because of the replacement cost so I need a beater around for more harmful environmnets
Musical Background:
25 years
Musical Style:
all styles
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