Taylor Guitars is known for its impeccable craftsmanship and innovative designs, producing some of the most popular and widely used acoustic guitars in the industry. Their 900 series of guitars are particularly noteworthy for their stunning looks, excellent playability, and high-end features. The Taylor 914 and 912 are two models in this series that are often compared for their similarities and differences.
When comparing the Taylor 914 and 912, it’s clear that their body shape and size are different. The 914 has a Grand Auditorium shape, while the 912 features a Grand Concert design. The 914 is also larger and heavier than the 912, with a longer scale length that may impact the overall playability of the guitar.
Another noticeable difference between the two is in their tonal qualities, with the 914 producing a warmer and more rounded sound compared to the brighter and more focused tone of the 912. Finally, the 914 features a more ornate and intricate design, showcasing a high level of attention to detail in its appointments and finishing touches.
| Taylor 914 | Taylor 912 | |
| Body Shape | Grand Auditorium | Grand Concert |
| Body Wood | Sitka Spruce, Indian Rosewood | Sitka Spruce, Indian Rosewood |
| Neck Shape | Standard Taylor Profile | Standard Taylor Profile |
| Neck Wood | Tropical Mahogany | Tropical Mahogany |
| Neck Construction | Taylor NT neck with dovetail joint | Taylor NT neck with dovetail joint |
| Fretboard Material | Ebony | Ebony |
| Scale Length | 25-1/2″ | 24-7/8″ |
| Number Of Frets | 20 | 20 |
| Frets Material | Nickel | Nickel |
| Type of Bridge | Fixed | Fixed |
| Tuning Machines | Taylor Gold with Gold buttons | Taylor Gold with Gold buttons |
| Weight | 4.8lbs(2.1kg) | 4.2lbs(1.9kg) |
While both guitars are built to the highest standards of quality, there are subtle differences in their design, tone, and playability that make them distinct from each other. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Taylor 914 vs 912 and explore the key differences between these two models to help you make an informed decision when choosing between these two models.
Construction & Hardware Compared
When it comes to construction and hardware, these two models share many similarities, but there are also some notable differences worth discussing.
Both guitars feature a back and sides made of Indian rosewood and a top made of Sitka spruce, as well as a neck made of tropical mahogany and an ebony fretboard. They both use Taylor’s NT neck design with a dovetail joint, which provides superior stability and resonance. Additionally, they both have an Ebony bridge and Taylor Gold tuning machines with Gold buttons for accurate and reliable tuning.
However, there are some key differences in construction and hardware between the two models. The Taylor 914 features a Grand Auditorium body shape, while the 912 has a Grand Concert body shape. The 914 is larger and heavier than the 912, with a longer scale length that can affect the overall playability of the guitar.
Tone Compared
The differences in construction and hardware between the Taylor 914 and 912 result in differences in tone.
The Taylor 914 produces a well-balanced sound across all frequencies, with a warm and full-bodied tone. The guitar’s tone is enhanced by the Indian rosewood back and sides that add richness and resonance, while the Sitka spruce top ensures clear projection. Its grand auditorium body shape contributes to its versatility, allowing it to be used for various genres and playing styles.
On the other hand, the Taylor 912 produces a brighter and punchier sound, emphasizing the midrange and treble. The Indian rosewood back and sides combined with the grand concert body shape provide a distinct tonal character that is bright and punchy, while the Sitka spruce top ensures clear projection. Its grand concert body shape is the main contributing factor to the difference in the tone and to its focused sound, making it ideal for intricate playing styles, particularly fingerstyle playing.
Feel & Playability Compared
Regarding feel and playability, both the Taylor 914 and 912 are excellent guitars that provide a comfortable playing experience. Nevertheless, there are distinct variations between the two that may make one model more favorable over the other, depending on an individual’s personal preferences.
The Taylor 914 and 912 differ in their body size, with the former having a slightly larger grand auditorium shape that allows for a comfortable playing experience. Its neck is constructed from mahogany and features an ebony fingerboard with a larger nut width providing additional space between the strings that may be advantageous for fingerstyle players or those with bigger hands. The slim profile of the 914’s neck also facilitates effortless playing throughout the neck.
Meanwhile, the Taylor 912 boasts a smaller grand concert body shape, which could be more suitable for players who prefer a more manageable guitar for longer playing sessions. Its neck is also fashioned from mahogany with an ebony fingerboard but has a narrower nut width making it more comfortable for players with smaller hands or those who like tighter string spacing.
Both the Taylor 914 and 912 are exceptional guitars that provide a comfortable playing experience, making them top-quality instruments in terms of overall feel and playability.
Looks Compared
Taylor guitars are well known for their classic yet distinctive look that will catch everyone’s eye. Their guitars are without question at the top of the league. When it comes to the aesthetics of the Taylor 914 and 912, there are some noticeable differences.
The Taylor 914 features a beautiful, eye-catching aesthetic. The back and sides are adorned with stunning abalone shell inlays, which add a touch of elegance to the guitar’s appearance. The 914’s top also has abalone trim and intricate “Ascension” fingerboard inlays, further contributing to its luxurious appearance. The overall look of the Taylor 914 is one of sophistication and refinement.
In contrast, the Taylor 912 has a simpler, more understated appearance that may appeal to players who prefer a more minimalistic look. It has a simple rosette and no other decorative inlays, allowing the natural beauty of the wood to speak for itself. The overall look of the Taylor 912 is one of simplicity and elegance, making it a great choice for players who prefer a more traditional look.
Conclusion
Considering the price tag of these models, you cannot go wrong when choosing any of these models. Sure, it may be an investment for a majority of people but it is one that is worth it, especially if you are a professional guitar player.
Overall, both guitars are exceptional choices for players of all levels and styles. The decision between the two models ultimately boils down to personal preferences, including sound, playability, and appearance. However, regardless of the guitar selected, players can rest assured that they are investing in a top-quality instrument crafted by one of the most renowned guitar makers globally.
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