Description
Taylor 114ce-S Acoustic-electric Guitar Review: A Musical Companion Worth Considering
The Taylor 114ce-S Acoustic-electric Guitar sits at the entry point of Taylor’s American-designed line, and it brings real character to a jam session. With its natural sapele body and Grand Auditorium design, it stands out for some unique reasons, both good and bad.
A Grand Auditorium That Fits Like a Glove
First off, the Grand Auditorium body style is a winner. It’s like the middle ground between a bulky dreadnought and a slim concert guitar. The narrower waist design is not just aesthetically pleasing but also makes it much easier to hold, especially during long practice sessions. Whether you’re strumming at home or performing on stage, this guitar feels right at home.
The solid Sitka spruce top combined with sapele back and sides creates a tone that’s both bright and warm. The midrange frequencies are notably balanced. For fingerpicking in particular, the clarity of each note is remarkable. However, if you’re expecting a booming bass response like some dreadnoughts offer, you might be slightly disappointed.
Electronics Worth Talking About
Whether the pickup needs an amplifier for the intended use is worth settling first, and the guide on amps for acoustic electric guitars covers that. The Taylor ES2 electronics are a game changer when you plug in. In a small venue, the amplified sound stays close to the guitar’s acoustic tone, which is rare in acoustic-electric guitars at this level. That said, there’s a slight metallic, “steely” sound when plugged in, which could be a dealbreaker for those who are super particular about tone. Still, tweaking the EQ settings on your amp or mixing board can help mitigate this.
The Maple Neck and Ebony Fretboard: A Dynamic Duo
Transitioning between chords is a breeze, thanks to the maple neck with its smooth finish. The ebony fretboard feels premium under your fingers, and the string action right out of the box is clean, with no buzzing or dead spots. For a newer player stepping up from a budget instrument, it is noticeably easier and more forgiving to fret.
Built to Last, But Not Without Flaws
The build quality of the 114ce-S is impressive. The fixed guitar bridge system feels sturdy, and the overall craftsmanship is what you’d expect from Taylor. However, there’s one recurring complaint: tuning stability. This guitar tends to fall out of tune faster than its price suggests it should. It’s not a dealbreaker, but constantly retuning during a set gets old fast.
Battle of the Brands: Taylor vs. Competitors
Within Taylor’s own range the Big Baby Taylor and the smaller Baby Taylor BT2 are the nearest reference points. Compared to some competitors like the Yamaha FGX800C or the Martin DX1AE, the Taylor 114ce-S holds its ground in terms of playability and tone clarity. While Yamaha offers a warmer, more bass-heavy sound, and Martin provides that vintage, woody tone, Taylor excels in delivering a balanced tonal spectrum and superior amplification. However, in terms of value for money, Yamaha might take the edge with its lower price point, especially for beginners.
Is It Worth the Price?
Martin’s LX1E Little Martin is the usual cross brand comparison among the acoustic electric guitars listed here. While Taylor guitars are undoubtedly premium, they can feel like an investment. Given the solid tonewoods, ES2 electronics, and comfortable playability, the 114ce-S offers excellent value for someone serious about their music. However, if you’re just starting out and are on a tight budget, you might want to explore more affordable options first.
Pros
- Balanced Tone: The combination of Sitka spruce and sapele creates a warm yet clear sound, perfect for a wide range of playing styles.
- Comfortable Playability: The Grand Auditorium body and smooth maple neck make this guitar a joy to play, even for extended periods.
- Premium Electronics: The ES2 system delivers a natural acoustic tone when amplified, making it gig-ready straight out of the box.
- Quality Materials: From the ebony fretboard to the phosphor bronze strings, every component feels high-end.
- Lightweight Design: Despite its robust build, it’s relatively light, making it easy to transport for gigs or lessons.
Cons
- Tuning Stability Issues: The guitar tends to slip out of tune, especially during extended play sessions.
- Steely Amplified Tone: The plugged-in sound has a slightly metallic edge, which might not appeal to everyone.
- Price Point: While the quality justifies it, the Taylor 114ce-S might feel a bit expensive for beginners.
- Lack of Bass Response: The tonal balance leans more toward mids and highs, which could leave bass lovers wanting.
- Battery Dependency: Requires a 9V battery for the electronics, adding a minor inconvenience if you forget to carry spares.
What Comes with the Product
- Taylor 114ce-S Acoustic-electric Guitar
- Taylor ES2 Electronics System
- Phosphor Bronze Strings (pre-strung)
- Gig Bag for Portable Storage
- Owner’s Manual and Care Instructions
Warranty & Support Information
Taylor provides a limited lifetime warranty for the original purchaser, covering defects in materials and workmanship. However, damages caused by wear and tear, improper maintenance, or accidents aren’t covered. The Taylor customer support team is known for their responsiveness, and they can be reached via email or phone for repairs, replacement parts, or general inquiries. Additionally, authorized Taylor service centers are available worldwide for more extensive repairs.
Having this warranty gives peace of mind to buyers, especially considering the guitar’s price point. For any issues related to the ES2 electronics, Taylor offers specialized support to ensure your guitar performs at its best.
