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From the very early days of Taylor, innovation has been key to the brand. From the use of modern computer-driven machinery — Taylor’s first CNC router was recommended by Tom Anderson — through to UV finishing and, not least, the NT neck joint, which allows a level of consistency and repair, should it be needed, that remains quite unique. Of course, this modernism isn’t always welcome in the often rearward-looking guitar world, where ‘old is best’ is a maxim many players adhere to.
And that’s where Andy Powers comes into the story, employed by Taylor a couple of years back to add his considerable luthiery and playing skills to take Taylor forwards. As Bob Taylor has said, he was looking for the impossible when he recruited Powers: “A guy who could really design guitars; who had over 20 years of experience; who was a professional player; who came from San Diego and, the real kicker, who was under 30!”
Powers is highly versed in the guitars of yesteryear, and as we’ve already seen with the 2012 refresh of the 700 series, he’s adding a vintage sensibility, not for the sake of it, but to enhance the musicality of the guitars. For 2014, the original Taylor range — the 800 series — receives his considerable input.
Here, Guitarist editor Jamie Dickson takes a look at the new 814ce.
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