100 vs 200 series top wood quality

[troystory92]

Hey guys,

Quick question. I thought I read somewhere that the solid sitka spruce top on the 200 is a higher quality of wood than the 100 series. Like AA or AAA sitka spruce or something.

Idk for sure.

Any answers much appreciated!!

[Strumming Fool]

Taylor uses aesthetically higher grade woods as the number of the series goes up. That said, aesthetic grading is based upon traditional standards of what is considered desirable. You actually may find woods with a bit more character in the lower end models, so it's all very subjective. Lastly, grading has little to do with tonal quality, so I wouldn't stress over it. Hope this helps.

[acme97]

All I can tell you is I played (and bought) a new 114e over some higher Taylor models on the same wall.  I was totally surprised, not even looking to buy that day.  But it spoke to me, go figure.  I played it against the others for over an hour.  The real high end ones did sound better, duh.  But in that lower-end ballpark, I went with a 100 series.  Even another 114e they had sealed in a box in back which they tried to have me purchase but I was like, uh, no.  I'll take THIS one.

Maybe the 200s have "better" tops.  But I didn't hear a better sounding box for my money that day.

[troystory92]

Yea I've enjoyed many 100/200 models.

While shopping my budget was right in between the 200 and 300 series. Played everything and anything I could in the price range and walked away with a 214ce-k dlx.

I posted the question because my buddy has a 110 that is about 8 years old and it sounds great. Has aged very well.


Taylors across the board are fantastic guitars. Lam sides vs wood sides/ nut suze/ body shape. There is something for everyone

[Swamp Yankee]

Appearance wise; I like the spruce top on my GS Mini-e RW more than the spruce top on my 412ce 12 fret LTD.... all you can do is pick the nicest you can find.