I Get Around
I recently returned from India. While I was over there it occurred to me that you guys might get a kick out of seeing your guitars getting around, so I took a picture of me with my T5 in front of a historical site in Hyderabad (South India).
What’s behind me in the picture is Charminar , one of the landmarks of Hyderabad. It was built by Muhammed Quli Qutb Shah in 1591, and contains the oldest mosque in Hyderabad.
I bought the T5 from Johnny at American Music in Bellevue, Washington. It’s a beautiful custom koa model. I changed out the tuners for the gold Planet Waves 18:1 self-trimming tuners and put gold Schaller strap locks on it. It is all alone at the top of my collection, which includes a Taylor 410, and the best of Fender and Gibson (Les Paul, USA Strat, Nashville edition Telecaster with B-bender). There are a dozen hanging on the wall in my studio, and none of them come close to this one.
I am not a professional musician. I am a guy with a day job who loves music and has been playing for 30 years. I get together with a gang of other musicians (with day jobs) every Wednesday night to play for a few hours.
Enjoy,
Daniel Moore
Redmond, Washington
Building a Mystery
I’ve owned two Taylors and a just bought a XXX-MSce. It was my intention to sell it for a profit, because the price was unusually low. But after I got it home something mysterious and wonderful happened: my playing went “over the edge” of what I thought was technically possible for me.
Songs and new licks flowed out like never before, though I’ve been writing and playing for 38 years. The recorded quality of this guitar is beyond everything else out there. The short scale and overall quality actually made me cry for joy.
Thank you for the courage to try new things while retaining the best of the past. I have an exceptional shadow photo of the instrument being played, which conveys the mystery and awe very well.
Louis Sorrentino
Accurate Expression
I know you get letters like this all the time, but I wanted to write anyway. In 1999, I purchased a 510ce, which I have enjoyed very much (my primary playing is fingerstyle). It’s a very versatile guitar and has a remarkable tone. Then Chris Proctor conducted a workshop at Guitars Etc. in Tucson, Arizona a couple of years ago and that blasted me into the next level of playing and on a long quest for my ultimate fingerstyle guitar.
To make a long story short, I had an unexpected blessing in the form of a bonus that gave me enough to purchase a 2003 914-L2. I never dreamed I would ever own such a guitar. The old-style inlay, rosewood binding, back strap, grain in the maple, three-piece back, and finish are works of art. The Taylor tuners are very smooth and very classy looking.
The tone was larger than life unamplified, but when I plugged it into one of my Mackie HR824 monitors the tone went from huge to gigantic! This was my first real experience with the Expression System — the amplified tone truly is accurately expressed. Thank you for the fine workmanship on this wonderful instrument!
Steve Barta
Tucson, Arizona
My Name is Steve And…
OK, I’m an addict. There, I’ve said it and now I feel much better. Now if you will please direct me to the nearest Tayl-Anon meeting, I will embark on the long and arduous journey of trying to control my addiction.
When you made the XXX Series, you could not have designed a guitar more suited to my personal taste. I have always liked the look and style of slotted-head guitars, and with the short scale to accommodate my 60-year-old fingers, the Grand Concert body, new voicing and beautiful choices of wood and inlay, I was hooked. As you can see by the picture, I have all five of the series including an extra XXX-MS.
My guitar “rack” is the result of my desire to have all the instruments readily available to play but not accessible to my grandkids, who haven’t yet learned the meaning of “gently, please, gently” and for some reason like to play in my music/exercise room. Besides, what better way to protect valuable instruments from fire and theft that to convert a fireproof gun safe to a gentler, kinder use? This point was brought home by a letter in the latest Wood&Steel about an owner who went back into his burning house to retrieve his Taylor.
I also want it to be known that part of the credit for my “problem” should go to Brandon Allen at Allen Music in Paducah, KY. The Allen family will treat you fairly and honestly, and Brandon in particular has gone out of his way to see that I have not had to suffer from “Taylor withdrawal.” Brandon is a pleasure to deal with, sells at very competitive prices, and offers fair value for trades. I highly recommend Allen Music.
Wait a minute. Let’s forget about the meetings. How about a XXX-Grafted Walnut/Engelmann with the ES? Consider this my firm order. Ship to Allen Music ASAP. I’ll start the meetings later.
Steve Vaughn
XXX Addict (and not ashamed to admit it)
A Big Baby in the North Country
I just wanted to let you know how pleased I am with the Big Baby I purchased not long ago. I have been playing club gigs and doing studio work for many years, and my “baby” since the mid-to-late ’60s has been a Martin D28. About a year ago, it was appraised at more than $4000, after which I became a little wary of carrying it around from place to place. I needed a backup and a friend suggested I try a Big Baby.
I tried one out at my local supplier and was so impressed that I bought it on the spot; for $500 Canadian it was quite attractive. Over the next several months I used it more and more, and found it to be an incredible instrument. With no disrespect to Martin (whose guitars I love), its sound is almost indistinguishable from my D28.
The Big Baby is well designed, well built, sounds great, looks great, and is easy to play. Thanks to Taylor for making such a great and affordable instrument.
Dave Haisell
Canada
Kansas Color
[The accompanying photo was e-mailed by Charisse & Steve Kahler, who performed on Stage 3 at the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival in Winfield, Kansas, September 17, 2005.] Charisse won the “colorful character” category of the NewSongs Showcase with her song “Across the Border”. She played her 1997 Kathy Mattea 612c, and Steve backed her on his 1998 814c. The couple resides in Overland Park, Kansas. [Photo by Don Shorock of Great Bend, Kansas].
Thanks!
Charisse & Steve Kahler
Double Happiness
I took a long break from playing music until last year, when I purchased a Taylor 310ce — what a joy to play! I then needed a softer sound, so I purchased an 814ce — another joy to play! I sure enjoy Wood&Steel, too. You are a very informative company. Taylor Guitars is the only way to go!
Ken Salomonson
Farmington Hills, Michigan
Wet Debt
I do a classic-jazz and blues show on WDVR-FM, the same station here in New Jersey as Carla Van Dyke (“The Sound Alternative”). I’m writing to thank you (and Carla) for saving me from what could have been a sad and painful long-term separation.
In March of ’88, I fell in love with a Taylor 615 in a little guitar shop in New Hope, Pennsylvania. At the time, I was really getting into the music of Rev. Gary Davis, and after a few trips to the store I had to have that guitar. I got the few extra touches I could afford (abalone around the soundhole, gold tuners), and being a little leery of the famous Taylor slim neck, I ordered it with the 1-7/8-inch neck.
I’m still not totally sure of my decision about the neck, but after all these years I think it was the right choice for my playing. After a couple of years, though, I began to notice problems. It would go out of tune at gigs and the action kept changing. I finally put it away in favor of a [other brand] guitar. It gave me many years of good service.
Fast forward a few years. While waiting to do my Monday night show, I picked up a copy of Wood&Steel from Carla’s desk and read the article about humidifying your instrument. Then it dropped like a bomb! DUH! The light dawned, and when I got home I first checked my [other brand]. There was a crack in the three-piece back and I could see light coming through. The Taylor had no cracks (maybe due to being in the case for 12 years?), but the strip down the entire back was raised and the frets were rough at the edges.
The next day, I bought a humidifying device for each guitar. I put a Dampit in the case with the Taylor for three days, then I put on new strings, and voila — I had a “new” guitar! It doesn’t go out of tune anymore, and I’m in love with it all over again. I can only shake my head. I’ve owned several guitars, and one particular guitar never stayed set for fingerpicking. Now I know what was wrong — the poor thing was dying of thirst. That had never occurred to me, and I was never enlightened by any guitar salesperson. Now I think every guitar should be sold with a humidifier.
I owe you guys a great debt of gratitude. Keep up the good PR work with Wood&Steel. I love my “new” Taylor. Not long ago, I had the privilege of opening for Geoffrey Muldaur and I proudly played my 615. It sounded beautiful!
Geoffrey Caldwell
Stockton, New Jersey
Monroe Doctrine
Last year, I was fortunate to buy a 354ce Fall LTD, and I love it! More recently, I was able to purchase a beautiful 414ce that sounds and plays unbelievable (then again, what did I expect from you folks?). Now, I am ecstatic to report that my dad played my 354ce, and I’ve opened his mind to what tone should be.
He ranted and raved about how great my guitar sounded and played, and he still hasn’t gotten over it! Last week, he called me up and said, “Let’s go shopping — I’ve got to have a Taylor!” He was a lifelong [other brand] fan until my Taylor introduced him to sound and playability that is off the scale. He ended up buying one of his lifelong desires, a jumbo-body guitar. Since then, he and his 315ce haven’t spent much time apart; he even loves playing it in church on Sundays!
I’ve since introduced my cousin Mark to your fine instruments, and two weeks ago he bought a 614ce. What a beaut! Mark is going back soon to buy an 810 LTD that he fell in love with even before the 614ce; he can’t stand to be without either. And to think he wanted me to help him find a [different brand]. I just couldn’t let my family go astray, guys! Thanks for making the best guitars on the planet.
Doug Lavigne
Monroe, Michigan
Class Action
Watching Bob Taylor being interviewed on [San Diego’s] Channel 4 brought a lot of questions to mind regarding why the high schools don’t offer as many shop classes anymore. I’m 70 and graduated from high school in 1952 in Iowa, where we learned machine shop, drafting, pattern and foundry, graphic arts, automotive shop, and a myriad of technical classes that prepared us for employment upon graduation.
I also learned different manufacturing processes in the Navy, in the aircraft industry, and finally with the California Dept. of Transportation. I was impressed with Mr. Taylor’s philosophy of manufacturing, as in my final years as a draftsman I learned and used computer-aided drafting in highway plans.
I wish that more industries would come to the aid of the schools and lend their expertise to the kids, as I know that this kind of education could start a lot of them on the right path in life. I intend to tour your plant, and will enjoy seeing your company at work.
Lynn Rockwell
Chula Vista, California
Precision Engineering
I own a Big Baby and it is, by far, the best guitar I have ever played. I cannot read music; I play by ear. I have been fingerpicking in a very unique, “precision picking” style for many years, and I’ve searched high and low for a great-sounding guitar. This guitar gets the very best out of my technique. It sings and rings to me. When I get it rolling, I can’t stop. I am utterly knocked out by it. Occasionally, I play it in airports when I’m traveling, and everyone is amazed.
I am a precision engineer and also trained as a carpenter. This guitar is precision made. And, finally someone thought to remove the cross-struts inside, which is why it sings.
Ray Webster
England
All-Around, Never Down
I just had to let you know how much I have enjoyed my Taylor 512. I have owned it since 2000 and it is the best all-around guitar I have ever owned for the different styles of music I play.
I have been a musician for the past 50 years, playing small clubs and schools, and when I need a guitar that I can depend on, one that is always there for me, and always in tune, it is the Taylor. It also records very well in the studio. People ask me why I like the 512 so much and I say, “Because it never has let me down.” Keep up the good work and keep sending Wood&Steel.
Richard E Cooley
Short ‘n’ Sweet
I’m a long-time Taylor owner (more than 10 years, and models including 710, 910, K20, 812ce, 814ce, CBSM, XXX-MC). My most recent Taylor is the 710ce-L9. Without question, this guitar not only represents the “latest and greatest” from Taylor (short scale, NT neck, ES electronics), but it is the sweetest and most playable guitar I have ever owned. Kudos to the Taylor team!
Mack Greene
Case Study
I’d just like to say that y’all have the absolute best cases for guitars, acoustic or electric, no question. Not long ago, our drummer backed our Ford E350 Super Duty 15-passenger van over my 510ce, in its case, at an outdoor venue. Sadly, the case flexed enough to allow the back and sides of the guitar to crack, but the headstock, neck, and top were in perfect condition! It was basically in tune, too. But thank the Lord for insurance, because now my new 810 rides safe and secure in the very same Taylor case. Many thanks.
Jim Duyck
Fired Up
Just got back from the New York Music Shop in Boardman, Ohio, where I spent time playing Taylors and [another brand]. Have been looking for a while. I must say that Taylor is my choice. Your guitars are fantastic. I’m 50 years old, and this is going to be my Christmas/birthday gift, the best gift I could receive. It’s down to a choice between the 512ce and the 412ce. Thanks for relighting the fire in my playing.
Joe Orr
Clean Machine
I am a long-time Taylor user and have had my 814c since 1997. I have also helped several friends purchase a 914c, 714c, 614c, 812c, 810, and several Babys, to wit I also own one of the originals.
I just purchased a Taylor K4 and I am amazed at how well it cleaned up my guitar sound with a Schertler Blue Stick pickup installed. At first, I kind of choked on the price because I have spent several hundred dollars on pickups and preamps for this guitar, in search of that “perfect tone”.
I have purchased two Fishman preamps, a Raven preamp, a Boss AD5, and a SansAmp preamp, none of which brought out the true nature of this fine instrument like the K4 has done. Thank you for making such a fine piece of audio gear!
Greer Streetman
Lifetime Member
In 1991, I became the delighted owner of a K20 — my fifth-anniversary present — and it continues to make me happy every time I play it! I love the smooth, even tone of the koa; it especially suits my jazz and swing playing.
Lately, I am getting more involved with traditional roots and bluegrass music. I thought I wanted a D-18, so I began my search. Because I am a fan of the mahogany/spruce sound, I also researched the Taylor 510. I found a used 510 in Atlanta, and when I went to try it out I was amazed at the strength, tone, and response of this guitar!
I purchased the 510 and have played it many times since with the bluegrass community in Western North Carolina. I thought you would like to know that I have gotten many compliments on the sound and projection of the 510. One well-seasoned musician told me it sounds better than any [other brand] he has heard! (I have to say I agree with his opinion.) Thank you for these great guitars! I am a Taylor man forever!
Tom Steele
Hooked on Koa
I became a Taylor guitar fan a few years ago when I purchased a Baby Taylor. I take this amazing guitar on every business trip (three or four times a month), and now that my Baby and I have achieved “Platinum” status (with Delta Airlines), the guitar joins me in all their Crown Rooms!
About six months ago, I took a trip to Maui, where I was introduced to koa. I was immediately hooked on this wood, and I purchased an all-koa ukelele. When I returned home, I learned from my local dealer (John’s Music in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina) that Taylor makes some of the finest koa guitars. I did some research and tried some other high-end koa guitars. They were very nice, but the quality of the koa on the Taylors was simply a cut above the rest. I had the dealer order a koa Dreadnought for me.
The tonal quality of this K20ce, combined with the fantastic Taylor neck, the Expression System, and the sheer beauty of the all-koa body make this the best and most complete guitar I have played during my 30 years of picking.
Bryan Baker
Bluffton, South Carolina
