The new line draws inspiration from ‘30s and ‘40s flattops, both visually and sonically
2024 was a huge year for Taylor Guitars. Last year saw the brand, known for its high-end handcrafted acoustic guitars, celebrating its 50th anniversary by rolling out limited edition model after limited edition model all year long.
But, it turns out, Taylor doesn’t need a milestone anniversary to devote its energy to bringing special new products to the acoustic guitar market. Today, they announced the debut of the all-new Gold Label collection, a striking new line with an emphasis on vintage aesthetics and exotic tonewoods that’s “unlike anything Taylor has ever produced.”
The Gold Label collection represents a sweeping reimagining of Taylor’s design elements and visual aesthetics, from a new Super Auditorium body style, long-tenon neck joint, and fanned V-Class bracing, to a new logo, headstock, and pickguard. These updated features, which “(draw) inspiration from classic 1930s and ’40s flat top acoustic guitars,” are designed not only to evoke retro sensibilities, but also imbue the instruments with a “richer, more resonant, more muscular sound.”
“The harder you play, the louder the guitar gets,” says Taylor Master Guitar Designer, President and CEO, Andy Powers. “But it naturally starts to compress the sound into a more controlled, focused tone rather than becoming mushy. Yet these guitars also respond to delicate articulation with a broadly rich voice. When you play a simple note softly, the guitar naturally amplifies it with surprising warmth and volume.”
The Gold Label collection comprises two models, the Gold Label 814e and Gold Label 814e SB (a gorgeous sunburst—a perfect match for the Gold Label Collection's vintage vibes). Each model is available with either Honduran Rosewood back and sides or Hawaiian Koa back and sides, each with a torrefied Sitka spruce top.
With vintage and vintage-inspired instruments all the rage among today's guitarists, Taylor doubtless hopes to make an impression on that segment of the market with the Gold Label Collection. Their mission: to attract the vintage-minded client with not only the line's aesthetics, but also its combination of the "warmth and tonal character of traditional instruments with the playability and reliability Taylor is known for." Smooth move, Mr. Powers. I hope to get my hands on one of these bad boys at the NAMM show this week!
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