The new Body Shape from Taylor, armed with V-Class Bracing!
We need to recover from the NAMM 2019 because what a lot of cool news has passed by! Our attention was immediately drawn to Taylor Guitars, whose new Grand Pacific body shape shows that the brand is willing to take the next step in their own development. What sets these guitars apart from the other Taylor models? First of all, the shape itself, which has a fairly traditional appearance. The Grand Pacific shape immediately feels familiar, and seems to hark back to some older Slope Shoulder Dreadnought guitars, making the new Taylor's feel nice and vintage correct. And that without compromising on the modern and progressive approach that Taylor is of course known for. All models are all solid, with a Tropical Mahogany neck and West African Ebony fretboard. All guitars will be supplied with a deluxe Taylor Deluxe Hardshell-Western Floral. Three models have so far been announced in the 3, 5 and 7 series, which will be available in two colors (Natural and Wild Honey Burst) and with or without the Expression 2 system.
The entry-level model, the Taylor 317
Even though there is quite a bit of overlap between the models, each model distinguishes itself by, among other things, the wood used and the way of finishing. Let's start with the so-called "entry-level model" of the new Grand Pacific shape: the Taylor 317 Grand Pacific. This topper is super attractive thanks to its relatively affordable price point. The guitar is equipped with a solid Sitka Spruce top and Sapele sides/back, and is otherwise kept nice and basic. No lavish binding or finish, but straight forward: no nonsense!
Mahogany sides/back for a warm sound: Taylor Builder's Edition 517
If we look further we see that the Taylor 517 is again equipped with a Sitka Spruce top, but with this model the sides and back are made of Tropical Mahogany. This gives the guitar a particularly warm timbre. Combine this with the Grand Pacific body shape, and you get an overwhelming and warm sound, which remains defined at all times (partly) thanks to the V-Class Bracing.
The traditional Spruce and Indian Rosewood combination: Taylor Builder's Edition 717
Finally, the flagship of the Grand Pacific line: the Taylor 717. This one has it all! Sitka Spruce top, Indians Rosewood (Palissander) back/side. This traditional combination of woods has proven its strength time and time again in history. The result? One of the most balanced Dreadnoughts we've ever heard and felt. Fingerpicking, strumming: nothing is too crazy. A nice extra is that this guitar is beautifully finished. The beautiful West African Ebony binding with rounded edges not only looks great, but also feels comfortable.
