$4K dilemna

[jalbert]

I'd much rather spend that much $$$$ on a guitar I've played beforehand. There's always a risk with a custom build that it won't be just right, and I'd rather not have regrets. Also, +1 on the advice to look for used in that price range.

[ctkarslake]

Gosh, I don't think I handle the "problem" you have.  My best advice is to go slow and enjoy the hunt.  It's easily as much fun as finally playing whatever you purchase!

[Chedeng88]

Had your problem before.  Being a Taylor fan, I explored their high end offerings first.  But that budget also allowed me to consider other well known botique builders like Santa Cruz, Collings and Goodall.   I ended up with a Goodall.

[azslacker]

Wish I had that budget ammt. right now. http://www.ebay.com/itm/USED-R-Taylor-Style-2-Macassar-Ebony-and-Sinker-Redwood-acoustic-with-case-/181250721656

[catan]

TBH I would use that money to buy the 2009 Coco thats on the Classifieds now and save the extra.

[Edward]

Wish I had that budget ammt. right now. http://www.ebay.com/itm/USED-R-Taylor-Style-2-Macassar-Ebony-and-Sinker-Redwood-acoustic-with-case-/181250721656

I would have to add that the two RT-2 and one RT-1 are priced according to this current lousy economy ...a perfect buyer's world for those who can, IMHO.  Years ago, or when eventually things pick up, the prices will rise.  Yes sayin...

Edward

[awdxtc]

Bto...but what do I know lol

[Ted @ LA Guitar Sales]

So Taylor fans: with $4,000-4,500 to spend, does one buy a custom BTO Taylor or a guitar from a boutique small shop luthier of note, all things being equal?

I don't think there is a right answer here, one should buy what they like and not worry about the headstock logo. BTW, for that kind of money you can buy an amazing Martin as well.

[oogaboogachiefwalkingdeer]

Yep you could buy a real nice Martin. They make the ones everyone else is measured up to. So why not??

[ataylor]

So Taylor fans: with $4,000-4,500 to spend, does one buy a custom BTO Taylor or a guitar from a boutique small shop luthier of note, all things being equal?

I don't think there is a right answer here, one should buy what they like and not worry about the headstock logo. BTW, for that kind of money you can buy an amazing Martin as well.

Yeah, how about a Martin... and a Taylor. Standard D-18 and a 522 12-fret. Or 718 and a 00-15M. Or a D-28 Marquis and a GS Mini mahogany. Or a..

[CodeBlueEMT]

 I'd buy two guitars.

[Locobolo]

TBH I would use that money to buy the 2009 Coco thats on the Classifieds now and save the extra.

+1 on this suggestion. I have one of these 09 Coco Ltds and a bunch of other Taylors. It's the only Taylor that I will never sell.  I also got mine for a lot more than the one for sale right now.  The $1K+ you'll save can get you a nice AER acoustic amp.

[Strumming Fool]

So Taylor fans: with $4,000-4,500 to spend, does one buy a custom BTO Taylor or a guitar from a boutique small shop luthier of note, all things being equal?

It all depends on what you want out of an instrument. I'm at a point in my journey, where Taylors do it better than everything else I have owned including some boutique guitars. So for me (as the owner of two BTOs), the choice would be easy. If you'd rather have a 00 or 000 or an OM for example, then you'll have to look at other brands....

[paul_zm]

Get the best of both worlds...pickup a used R. Taylor. I have been in this situation before as well (yes, it's a tough one...) and came to the decision that -- although I would really love to have a one-of-a-kind custom-built, boutique luthier guitar, the resale on it would be tough. Most people buy guitars by brand value as well as sound.

I honestly think R. Taylors are better than BTOs, and there are a handful always coming available.

[rolleiguy54]

I would look for a used Goodall or Froggy bottom.