Unofficial Taylor Guitar Forum - UTGF
Taylor Acoustic & Electric Guitars => Taylor Acoustic & Electric Guitars => Topic started by: zeebow on January 12, 2018, 06:36:22 PM
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something new and big is coming 1.25.18 and is dubbed as taylors biggest innovation from Bob himself.
https://youtu.be/oxY4Errkm-U
i think this deserves a separate thread from the NAMM thread
so please reply with:
1. what you think it is
2. what do you hope it is
3. do you plan to buy it :)
for me:
1. i think it’s a builder reserve 900 series, maybe a lutz/koa wood combo. probably a big GS accompanies by a lutz/koa steel string uke. the fact he has a 900 series in the back aligns with the other builder reserve series, and the label he’s applying says builder edition
2. hope it’s andy’s modern take on a uke or a solid body, gloss gs mini
3 if it’s a builder reserve, i can’t afford it, so nope. if it’s a “first edition” uke or solid wood gs mini, 100% yes. already cleared with the boss
looking forward to hear your responses!!
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Possibly something to do with the bracing; the cross pieces are not perpendicular to the center line joiner piece.
If that is the upper bout, it doesn't appear to be too wide across; based on his hands, maybe 10-12"?
edit> Maybe a solid wood mini?
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Possibly something to do with the bracing; the cross pieces are not perpendicular to the center line joiner piece.
Gosh, I'm surprised so many people don't realize that the back bracing on many Series 600 and 800 models are slanted! So nope, that's not new.
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something new and big is coming 1.25.18 and is dubbed as taylors biggest innovation from Bob himself.
https://youtu.be/oxY4Errkm-U
i think this deserves a separate thread from the NAMM thread
so please reply with:
1. what you think it is
2. what do you hope it is
3. do you plan to buy it :)
for me:
1. i think it’s a builder reserve 900 series, maybe a lutz/koa wood combo. probably a big GS accompanies by a lutz/koa steel string uke. the fact he has a 900 series in the back aligns with the other builder reserve series, and the label he’s applying says builder edition
2. hope it’s andy’s modern take on a uke or a solid body, gloss gs mini
3 if it’s a builder reserve, i can’t afford it, so nope. if it’s a “first edition” uke or solid wood gs mini, 100% yes. already cleared with the boss
looking forward to hear your responses!!
Well, let's start with "biggest innovation of all time for Taylor". Bigger than the NT neck. Pretty big. Really big.
So, as I said in the NAMM thread, I believe the big innovation is a new bracing scheme based on Andy Power's patent that is a breakthrough, representing less tradeoff between volume (flexibility) and sustain (rigidness).
Bob's said before he doesn't think the GS Mini market would go for the cost of a solid wood Mini, but maybe he figured something out. I doubt it.
The label does in fact say Builders Edition along the vertical stay. Maybe a parlor guitar? Yeah, what the heck, I'll call that.
I also think they may pull the trigger on the koa uke, we know that's coming, why not now?
So those are my 3 guesses.
As a bonus, perhaps the guitar sound track is an amplified guitar for a reason? It's not miked, it's amplified. Just covering my bases.... 8)
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This was posted over at the AGF but someone found a patent filed by Andy and Taylor Guitars:
https://patents.google.com/patent/US9520108B1/en?q=G10D3%2f02&assignee=TAYLOR-LISTUG%2c+INC. (https://patents.google.com/patent/US9520108B1/en?q=G10D3%2f02&assignee=TAYLOR-LISTUG%2c+INC.)
Looks like it might be bracing...but I also wouldn't be surprised if they also introduced a smaller new model as well. I agree with some of the posters that the back of the guitar on the table looks really small but then again it could just be the angle...maybe it's a GC...who knows.
Whatever they introduce, I know I'll be excited.....maybe it's time to save some pennies and maybe sell the Martin.........
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2 years ago I sent a question to the "Ask Bob" column in Wood and Steel. It never made it on page. At first I thought maybe it was a stupid question that just didn't make the cut. Now I'm telling myself I am a "stable genius" and they have been experimenting with my idea all this time.
Are you ready for it?? Bamboo bracing.
You saw it here first.
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2 years ago I sent a question to the "Ask Bob" column in Wood and Steel. It never made it on page. At first I thought maybe it was a stupid question that just didn't make the cut. Now I'm telling myself I am a "stable genius" and they have been experimenting with my idea all this time.
Are you ready for it?? Bamboo bracing.
You saw it here first.
no such thing as a stupid question :)
interesting, bamboo is dense and rigid, but i’m def not a luthier so i have no idea if that would work
this is fun :)
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Steel string fan bracing can’t wait.
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My bet based on the video will be a fan braced steel string parlor. Small back, recent patent that looks like fan bracing, but not robust enough for full size guitar possibly, but huge sound in small body guitars.
Additionally looks like builders reserve which is sometimes used to test market for new product.
No sense dumping performance bracing across the line as well. To many bracing changes in short time.
Or it could be ES3. ;-)
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I wonder if DWM's comment is talking about the same thing?
http://www.unofficialtaylorguitarforum.com/index.php?topic=8687.0
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Looking at the Taylor homepage, there is the image that is of the same guitar from the video. By inspecting the element in the browser, you can see that they have named the image: "V-Class-Bracing-Homepage-Phase-1_0.jpg" so I'd say the bracing is the big announcement. (https://www.taylorguitars.com/sites/default/files/styles/hero_rotator/public/V-Class-Bracing-Homepage-Phase-1_0.jpg)
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Just curious, I haven't shoved my head into a newer than 2012 Taylor soundhole, but since the transition from Bob to Andy, has Andy's signature been on the labels?
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After looking at the link for the patent, I think the new bracing pattern what the big reveal will be.
P.S. Did anyone notice that Andy's full name is ANDREW TAYLOR POWERS?
I seem to recall Bob saying that Andy was like a son to him. Hmm.....
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Looking at the Taylor homepage, there is the image that is of the same guitar from the video. By inspecting the element in the browser, you can see that they have named the image: "V-Class-Bracing-Homepage-Phase-1_0.jpg" so I'd say the bracing is the big announcement. (https://www.taylorguitars.com/sites/default/files/styles/hero_rotator/public/V-Class-Bracing-Homepage-Phase-1_0.jpg)
interesting find. you’re a sleuth! :)
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Just curious, I haven't shoved my head into a newer than 2012 Taylor soundhole, but since the transition from Bob to Andy, has Andy's signature been on the labels?
no, they have not. this one does though.
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After looking at the link for the patent, I think the new bracing pattern what the big reveal will be.
P.S. Did anyone notice that Andy's full name is ANDREW TAYLOR POWERS?
I seem to recall Bob saying that Andy was like a son to him. Hmm.....
do you know the story of how bob found andy? it’s a miraculous story, if you don’t know, i’ll look for a video link.
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After looking at the link for the patent, I think the new bracing pattern what the big reveal will be.
P.S. Did anyone notice that Andy's full name is ANDREW TAYLOR POWERS?
I seem to recall Bob saying that Andy was like a son to him. Hmm.....
do you know the story of how bob found andy? it’s a miraculous story, if you don’t know, i’ll look for a video link.
This might be the video you're thinking about.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HcfVJNOspo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HcfVJNOspo)
Andy is Bob's "Godchild". 8)
Bob's a very committed Christian and he literally wrote what he calls his "Dear God" letter, listing the characteristics Bob needed in his successor. Andy checked all the boxes. Check out the video to hear Bob tell it.
For more on that, check out this great co-interview:
http://thehub.musiciansfriend.com/gear-pioneers/the-makers-bob-taylor-and-andy-powers-of-taylor-guitars (http://thehub.musiciansfriend.com/gear-pioneers/the-makers-bob-taylor-and-andy-powers-of-taylor-guitars)
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Just curious, I haven't shoved my head into a newer than 2012 Taylor soundhole, but since the transition from Bob to Andy, has Andy's signature been on the labels?
no, they have not. this one does though.
Right. That's what's making me wonder if there'll be something bigger than bracing...
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I'm sure it's not it but hey, maybe Taylor decided to make a second attempt at their own line of amps and the Andy Powers signature on the label isn't literal, just a figurative way of saying Andy is putting his signature on the Taylor brand. I'm 100% positive that I am wrong and it's probably a new line of guitars but oh well, fun to guess.
If I could have a wish granted, it would be a redesigned T5 model. It's always been one of my favorite guitars in the world that I could never get the sound out of it that I wanted. I am in the minority here I am sure.
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When they say "biggest," it truly better be the biggest, otherwise, they risk making a fool of themselves, like so many other companies that claim "innovation" when it is little more than updates or changes.
IMHO:
1. The change to the ES was big! All R&D done in house; truly a game changer. All the ES changes thereafter, including to ES2, are just "changes."
2. The NT system: revolutionized guitar making, period. Initially dismissed by the so-called big boys as a mere "bolt on" --ergo "cheap"-- build process, it has proven itself over time. Witness the innumerable notable makers who have done similarly. Huge!
3. The brand R.Taylor: bold, sweeping, and well executed. That it did not survive beyond its ~6 year life speaks more of the market and its perceptions than the nature of these stellar guitars and mini company, itself.
All other "big" stuff Taylor has done is, IMHO, simply changes they make to keep themselves relevant and in the forefront. Amps, new models, changes to the product line are merely that: changes. The Bari, the GO, GSm, et.al. were additions, but hardly as revolutionary as the aforementioned. Necessary, but not monumental.
So yes, I think this "biggest" thing they are touting is more a "direction" than a "thing." Namely, Andy at the helm, in concert with a "thing" he's brought to the table, and Bob taking a wholly different role. Bob, himself, has alluded to such in recent years. So maybe it incorporates a bracing change, but not merely a bracing change. Afterall, that's just a "revoice" of a guitar. I'm waiting, but not with baited breath. :)
Edward
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The big announcement could be that Andy is taking over. No more Bob, or any involvement from him. Although we have seen this coming, I think that the complete take over(in a good way)is possibly the news. Andy may now own Taylor guitar and Bob is let out to pasture with a stipend retirement, haha
Having seen the video with Andy putting the label on the unfinished guitar, I did not see Bob's name on it at all, hmmmm.
This would be like Chris Martin stepping down and no Martin running or owning the company.
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Exactly what I was thinking. Bob has mentioned how he likes his new "other" role, one where he focuses on the procurement of material, helping ensure its viability, and most of all caring for the people and communities he works with in these countries.
This is a veritable trifecta of talent: Bob at the raw materials end, Kurt at the operational/financial corner, and Andy at R&D putting chisel to wood. Can't see anything wrong from where I'm sitting :)
Edward
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Of course Bob only owns half of Taylor, Kurt has always been there too. Plus, I don’t think changing control would qualify as the “biggest” innovation yet, although Andy has had a profound impact on the company and product and I expect his role to expand, I expect the “big” thing has to do with product.
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Hmm.. I just received an email from Taylor Guitar with an link to an article explaining the basics of bracing, and referring back to their article on sustain/volume. I wonder if that's a hint as to the announcement as well...
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Fan braced steel string parlor. Small back, recent patent that looks like fan bracing, but not robust enough for full size guitar possibly, but huge sound in small body guitars.
Additionally looks like builders reserve which is sometimes used to test market for new product.
No sense dumping performance bracing across the line as well. To many bracing changes in short time.
Will be first guitar to feature Andy on label without Bob.
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When they say "biggest," it truly better be the biggest, otherwise, they risk making a fool of themselves, like so many other companies that claim "innovation" when it is little more than updates or changes.
IMHO:
3. The brand R.Taylor: bold, sweeping, and well executed. That it did not survive beyond its ~6 year life speaks more of the market and its perceptions than the nature of these stellar guitars and mini company, itself.
Sure there was marketing saying that they had solid purflings, but it was actually near impossible to discern any audible difference between them and regular Taylors. The fact that they are no longer around when Martin still does well with their Authentic line shows that it was more about branding rather than another level of guitar. Not many Taylor fans themselves have missed the tone of R Taylor guitars since their demise, and have their Taylor fixes satisfied with the standard Taylors today.
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WRT^^^
I notice a discernably lighter weight, lighter build, and tonal difference; this across the several that I've had in my hands. The solid lining (purfling is aesthetic, and is part of the binding) likewise is a significant build difference vs "kerfed" lining in productions guitars, and these build differences go beyond just this. These differences add up, and it is all immediately discernable, and doesn't take a guitar wonk to tell. Moreover, I've run into more than a few who hear and feel the likewise; just as there are who don't or can't tell the diff. That Martin's Authentic line has any bearing on this discussion is akin to the effect of the price of tea in China. Innumerable market forces play in the rise and fall of any product line, let alone a company, and discussing so in this venue adds nothing here. So I guess we'll just have to disagree on this. :)
Edward
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The biggest announcement will be the new V Class or "V-bracing". Since it's Andy's patent, Bob I'm sure told him to put his name on those labels. That goes along with Bob being on record this is possibly the biggest innovation in their history. Time to set Andy free. Note the label says "Andy Powers, Master Guitar Maker". Not CEO, etc. Whether they announce Andy "taking over" as CEO, we'll see. Actually I think it would be a bit strange to announce that or for that to be a part of NAMM, I'm sure Andy would want to focus on the guitars, not him, at the show.
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The label that Andy Powers is placing on the back has his name, and I think that's the key. I predict that Taylor will discontinue the Presentation series and replace it with the Andy Powers series which may have the bracing shown on the patent application as well as fancy inlay, binding, and the highest grade of back/side/top woods.....
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The biggest announcement will be the new V Class or "V-bracing". Since it's Andy's patent, Bob I'm sure told him to put his name on those labels. That goes along with Bob being on record this is possibly the biggest innovation in their history. Time to set Andy free. Note the label says "Andy Powers, Master Guitar Maker". Not CEO, etc. Whether they announce Andy "taking over" as CEO, we'll see. Actually I think it would be a bit strange to announce that or for that to be a part of NAMM, I'm sure Andy would want to focus on the guitars, not him, at the show.
it sure seems that way with all the having emails i’m getting from taylor
take a look at the bracing on the small guitar on top of the builder reserve page, V shape
https://www.taylorguitars.com/guitars/builders-reserve
another parlor from taylor would be cool, i love my grand concerts, but i would def get a parlor if the price was reasonable
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WRT^^^
I notice a discernably lighter weight, lighter build, and tonal difference; this across the several that I've had in my hands. The solid lining (purfling is aesthetic, and is part of the binding) likewise is a significant build difference vs "kerfed" lining in productions guitars, and these build differences go beyond just this. These differences add up, and it is all immediately discernable, and doesn't take a guitar wonk to tell. Moreover, I've run into more than a few who hear and feel the likewise; just as there are who don't or can't tell the diff. That Martin's Authentic line has any bearing on this discussion is akin to the effect of the price of tea in China. Innumerable market forces play in the rise and fall of any product line, let alone a company, and discussing so in this venue adds nothing here. So I guess we'll just have to disagree on this. :)
Edward
How would you describe this "tonal difference"?
I'd say the lighter weight is due to not having electronics.
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take a look at the bracing on the small guitar on top of the builder reserve page, V shape
https://www.taylorguitars.com/guitars/builders-reserve
That looks like standard fan bracing to me.
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Good morning Englemann,
I'm not here to defend or in any way advocate for RT's existence or lament its demise, nor to wax on about stellar build and superior tone. I had initially made a simple statement about Taylor's bold move to open a wholly independent shop as testament to their innovation: that was all. In ca. 2006 (IIRC), Taylor chose to go head-to-head against the so-called boutique industry and did so with five (IIRC) experienced luthiers, with their own supply, build specs, time frame, and company mantra; yes, an independent company that could walk across the street and borrow a cup of sugar, but remained under their own "company line" because they wanted to build something different from their production guitars. Period. One can opine about why they no longer exist, but one cannot opine about facts of their existence.
And those facts include marked differences in build process ...if you believe Taylor, that is, because if you don't believe their words then, then why believe anything they say. Moreover, to claim that the lighter weight is simply because of the absence of electronics is, with respect, wholly misunderstanding everything they did. Not only did they build with and without electronics, the build process deemed a lighter, more responsive instrument --again, to compete with what luthiers do in small-production builds, as opposed to production-line manufacturing. Sorry, sir, if you didn't understand "purfling" and think the weight difference is due to a mere PCB and output jack etc, then you are, with respect, wholly uninformed on this matter.
Let us return to the thread at hand.
Edward
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probably bracing, new video
https://twitter.com/TaylorGuitars/status/955139195365769216?s=17
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I'm not here to defend or in any way advocate for RT's existence or lament its demise, nor to wax on about stellar build and superior tone.
I am not trying to say you were saying they had superior tone, but rather my opinion is that they simply do not have a different tone. When R Taylor first came out, they had the GS bodyshape. This was new and innovative. But later this was reflected in the standard Taylor line, so the additional "bass response" difference in its tone is accounted for in the standard Taylor line. Secondly, they had what was called modified X bracing (or something to that effect), which was also later incorporated into the standard Taylor line as CV bracing. Therefore, the point I am making is, R Taylors later become obsolete, because there was no differentiation between their tone and the tone of regular Taylor guitars.
I had initially made a simple statement about Taylor's bold move to open a wholly independent shop as testament to their innovation: that was all. In ca. 2006 (IIRC), Taylor chose to go head-to-head against the so-called boutique industry and did so with five (IIRC) experienced luthiers, with their own supply, build specs, time frame, and company mantra; yes, an independent company that could walk across the street and borrow a cup of sugar, but remained under their own "company line" because they wanted to build something different from their production guitars. Period. One can opine about why they no longer exist, but one cannot opine about facts of their existence.
I regularly see people pointing out the fact that R Taylor was a separate company, as if this somehow goes towards it being a small luthier shop, as opposed to simply a business decision to limit liability or reduce tax implications in the event the enterprise was not profitable. It wasn't borrowing a cup of sugar, but rather borrowing the use of CNC machines to build the majority of the guitars.
And those facts include marked differences in build process ...if you believe Taylor, that is, because if you don't believe their words then, then why believe anything they say. Moreover, to claim that the lighter weight is simply because of the absence of electronics is, with respect, wholly misunderstanding everything they did. Not only did they build with and without electronics, the build process deemed a lighter, more responsive instrument --again, to compete with what luthiers do in small-production builds, as opposed to production-line manufacturing. Sorry, sir, if you didn't understand "purfling" and think the weight difference is due to a mere PCB and output jack etc, then you are, with respect, wholly uninformed on this matter.
I don't dispute that there were differences in build process. If you read back to the original post, I dispute that there is any significant difference in tone, which was a point you avoided in your response. Having owned three R Taylors in the past, as well as playing several, and owning over a dozen Taylor guitars, if one asked me to describe the tone of a Taylor guitar, and then describe the tone of an R Taylor guitar, I could not describe them in a way that would differ compared to say if I was to describe the tone of a Taylor guitar versus the tone of a Collings guitar. I do not find R Taylors to be tonally different to regular Taylor guitars, and I would be interested to hear people who believe there is a difference to describe what that tonal difference is.
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...I do not find R Taylors to be tonally different to regular Taylor guitars, and I would be interested to hear people who believe there is a difference to describe what that tonal difference is.
So you do not find guitar line "a" to be tonally different from guitar line "b" ...yet you still want to hear other people's opinions on what you've already concluded personally. Very well: in which case may I suggest you create such a thread of your own. I was not "avoiding" such a discussion because I had nothing to say, but simply redirecting because was not germane to the OP. Start a thread ...and likewise, do a search as there are plenty of opinions to weigh and consider.
Edward
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So you do not find guitar line "a" to be tonally different from guitar line "b" ...yet you still want to hear other people's opinions on what you've already concluded personally. Very well: in which case may I suggest you create such a thread of your own. I was not "avoiding" such a discussion because I had nothing to say, but simply redirecting because was not germane to the OP. Start a thread ...and likewise, do a search as there are plenty of opinions to weigh and consider.
Edward
Because you were the one who brought it up when you wrote:
I notice a discernably lighter weight, lighter build, and tonal difference; this across the several that I've had in my hands.
Yet, you have not been able to describe what this tonal difference you discernibly hear is. Neither can I. If it was so discernible, then you could probably say something along the lines or more clarity, or more bass, or something along those lines. Hence my point stands that there is no discernible difference and that the standard Taylor line now already tonally covers what R Taylor had (GS Shape, CV bracing). I enjoy R Taylors for their aesthetic, but I don't buy into the whole hey because of their narrow headstock and string angle plus solid kerflings is going to make it sound discernibly different to regular Taylors, because they were made with the same CNC machines, by the same employees who happened to be exemplary at doing what they were already doing for regular Taylor guitars on the production line (such as inlays).
Maybe you feel like I should start a new thread, but you were the one who brought the discussion to the table. Isn't the whole point of a forum to discuss things? So if you can't give your opinion on the discernible difference you hear in tone between regular Taylors and R Taylors, then you simply don't want to discuss the issue. Good for you. We're all Taylor fans, but if any other company had hyperbole, such as because it was built under a separate corporate entity therefore that somehow makes the guitar sounds different rather than because of other unrelated reasons (such as for tax planning or other legal purposes that are unrelated to building guitars), it should also be pointed out. Collings with their Traditional Series have discernibly different sounding guitars from their Standard Series. The same tonal signature, but discernibly more bass, scooped mids, and drier tone. But I don't hear any discernible difference between a Style 1 R Taylor in Cedar/Mahogany that I would hear in a GS Taylor Cedar/Mahogany.
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Because you were the one who brought it up when you wrote:
I notice a discernably lighter weight, lighter build, and tonal difference; this across the several that I've had in my hands.
Yet, you have not been able to describe what this tonal difference you discernibly hear is. Neither can I. If it was so discernible, then you could probably say something along the lines or more clarity, or more bass, or something along those lines. Hence my point stands that there is no discernible difference and that the standard Taylor line now already tonally covers what R Taylor had (GS Shape, CV bracing).
Maybe you feel like I should start a new thread, but you were the one who brought the discussion to the table. Isn't the whole point of a forum to discuss things? So if you can't give your opinion on the discernible difference you hear in tone between regular Taylors and R Taylors, then you simply don't want to discuss the issue. Good for you.
Hi Engelmann. Let's not make this a contest on who is better at discerning tone. Edward hears a tonal difference. Period. Two people may discern different qualities when hearing the exact same thing.
So let's move on from this and get back to ideas on what the new announcement from Taylor might be in just a few days. ;D Thanks for your understanding.
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Because you were the one who brought it up when you wrote:
I notice a discernably lighter weight, lighter build, and tonal difference; this across the several that I've had in my hands.
Yet, you have not been able to describe what this tonal difference you discernibly hear is. Neither can I. If it was so discernible, then you could probably say something along the lines or more clarity, or more bass, or something along those lines. Hence my point stands that there is no discernible difference and that the standard Taylor line now already tonally covers what R Taylor had (GS Shape, CV bracing).
Maybe you feel like I should start a new thread, but you were the one who brought the discussion to the table. Isn't the whole point of a forum to discuss things? So if you can't give your opinion on the discernible difference you hear in tone between regular Taylors and R Taylors, then you simply don't want to discuss the issue. Good for you.
Hi Engelmann. Let's not make this a contest on who is better at discerning tone.
I didn't think he was trying to make this a contest -- he was asking for clarification. Edward said that he could detect a tonal difference, and Engelmann asked him to describe that tonal difference.
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Maybe we should just get back to the "1.25.18" topic. ;)
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Logical evolution from Y bracing that was present in the R. Taylor line to Andy's take in the form of V Bracing. R. Taylor had the Y brace (they called it asymmetrical bracing, and most of the R. Taylors I have experienced had this option). Now it moves to the V brace. By the way my R. Taylor with this bracing is fantastic. I do think whatever they announce will be strongly centered around Andy Powers and V bracing. I do not think it was a coincidence the current bracing is called AP bracing (advanced performance aka Andy Powers).
I do agree this may be the largest innovation to date if the bracing proves to provide an improvement. The patent is solid and would require any other builder using a similar design to license from Taylor. Think about the X brace, anyone can use it.
X Bracing, and Y Bracing
(http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l74/Iralovesguitars/RTaylorbracing.jpg)
And a nice additional video showing some sweet high notes.
https://twitter.com/TaylorGuitars/status/955875667203170304
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There has been a lot of talk on this thread about the big news will be in the bracing. In my very humble opinion I feel bracing is not a major announcement. Have the last two bracing changes been major NAMM announcements, or is it just because it is the now new big marketing scheme that makes this such an important announcement. Possibly, all the hints given are just a diversion to make a bigger splash in another way.
Maybe I am wrong.
As of 1/24/17 I find that it is bracing that is the big news from Taylor. So, once again I am wrong. Boy it must be a big change in tone.
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There has been a lot of talk on this thread about the big news will be in the bracing. In my very humble opinion I feel bracing is not a major announcement. Have the last two bracing changes been major NAMM announcements, or is it just because it is the now new big marketing scheme that makes this such an important announcement. Possibly, all the hints given are just a diversion to make a bigger splash in another way.
Maybe I am wrong.
It'll be the bracing.
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There has been a lot of talk on this thread about the big news will be in the bracing. In my very humble opinion I feel bracing is not a major announcement. Have the last two bracing changes been major NAMM announcements, or is it just because it is the now new big marketing scheme that makes this such an important announcement. Possibly, all the hints given are just a diversion to make a bigger splash in another way.
I agree with this. For the vast majority of guitar players, a new bracing pattern would be a big yawn. I've got a feeling it's something entirely different ... and more compelling than the rearranging of wood strips. But I enjoy all the speculation.
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There has been a lot of talk on this thread about the big news will be in the bracing. In my very humble opinion I feel bracing is not a major announcement. Have the last two bracing changes been major NAMM announcements, or is it just because it is the now new big marketing scheme that makes this such an important announcement. Possibly, all the hints given are just a diversion to make a bigger splash in another way.
I agree with this. For the vast majority of guitar players, a new bracing pattern would be a big yawn. I've got a feeling it's something entirely different ... and more compelling than the rearranging of wood strips. But I enjoy all the speculation.
Taylor will announce tomorrow that it will be merging with Martin Guitars. :o ;) ;) ;) ;) ;) ;) ;)
But seriously, I'm pretty pumped about what it'll be tomorrow!
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There has been a lot of talk on this thread about the big news will be in the bracing. In my very humble opinion I feel bracing is not a major announcement. Have the last two bracing changes been major NAMM announcements, or is it just because it is the now new big marketing scheme that makes this such an important announcement. Possibly, all the hints given are just a diversion to make a bigger splash in another way.
I agree with this. For the vast majority of guitar players, a new bracing pattern would be a big yawn. I've got a feeling it's something entirely different ... and more compelling than the rearranging of wood strips. But I enjoy all the speculation.
I agree if the rearranging of wood does not result in a very noticeable improvement in tone. This will not be announced as just a bracing changes. The new guitars will most likely be marketed as the "V Class". This is marketing speak to generate interest to try the new design which is very different from anything that has been done on a steel string guitar by a mass producer of guitars.
I predict it will be another hit, and Taylor will continue to hold their spot at the top. Bob Taylor has made it clear in the past that it is not good enough just to be happy with what you already are succeeding with. You have to always be moving the bar higher. This is part of that corporate philosophy that is very pervasive at Taylor/Listug.
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apparently 1.25.18 means 1.24.18
https://www.taylorguitars.com/guitars/acoustic/v-class-bracing/story
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Wow, great catch, Zee!!
So as far as the "biggest thing" is concerned, we have a bracing change and a label to affirm it. Um, ok.
Disclaimer: I love Taylor guitars, particularly their company ethic and execution. Heck, I've long since sold my other acoustics and have only Taylors and one Spanish classical so this speaks of my acoustic outlook. But how they rolled this out is, sadly, over-marketed and hyperbolized, IMHO. And keep in mind I've no basis here other than mere opinion ...it may just be the next hot thing. But c'mon, a bracing change as the "biggest" thing? I wish they didn't hype it this way...for me anywhoo.
Here's to hoping it's awesome :D
Edward
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But how they rolled this out is, sadly, over-marketed and hyperbolized, IMHO. And keep in mind I've no basis here other than mere opinion ...it may just be the next hot thing. But c'mon, a bracing change as the "biggest" thing? I wish they didn't hype it this way...for me anywhoo.
I wholeheartedly agree. Of course, they got what they wanted: A whole bunch of talk and anticipation. And they purposefully leaked a lot of information that had people guessing correctly. I'm holding out for them revealing something else tomorrow and having all of this other stuff about bracing being a diversion.
Of course bracing is a big issue, but this smells a bit like crying wolf...
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It’s more than a bit premature to proclaim this was overhyped. Taylor’s smart, they knew they’d have to back up their enthusiasm. We’ll need to get past internet pontification in the coming weeks to assess for ourselves.
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It’s more than a bit premature to proclaim this was overhyped. Taylor’s smart, they knew they’d have to back up their enthusiasm. We’ll need to get past internet pontification in the coming weeks to assess for ourselves.
Well, yessir, you are correct to say such as it is, in fact, premature of me to call this overhyped. But I'm doing so anyway ;)
1. I've done nothing to assess this "big" change (which the factory calls the biggest, most significant change) they've made except to see the threads, read what they've offered, and view the pics. So of course, my pontificating is based purely on conjecture. I am fully prepared to view the world with egg on my face!
2. But I very much doubt that the egg will be anywhere near my face (except squarely on a plate), for the simplest reason: guitars have undergone innumerable bracing changes since I've been playing, as well as since I've grown aware enough to notice nuances. A "change" in voice is certain. An improvement, perhaps. Significant improvement, even possible, again. But as for the biggest change they've made? I'll reserve final judgement until I get one in my hands. But given the pics they put out and the verbiage they released on this release, and the changes Powers has thus far made to company in terms of expanding the line (say, GO and 12F, or revoicing the 800, et.al.), and the innumerable changes I've seen, heard, and played in acoustics over the decades, I am sticking to my initial thought of "hyperbolized" and "hyped."
3. If I'm wrong, I'm putting gear/guitars up for sale and wrangling my hands around one of these ...count on it as I am a tone hound as much as any. But given the premises I've offered, I think my existing gear is pretty safe :)
4. But at least the speculation has been fun!! :D
Edward
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i wrote this somewhere else, but a bracing like this would be amazing for a small body guitar, like a parlor, to add projection, volume, perfect intonation
hope they introduce a parlor with v class bracing and ill be having a NGD this year
parlor 12 fret vintage andy powers v class bracing...let’s go!
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... If I'm wrong, I'm putting gear/guitars up for sale and wrangling my hands around one of these ......
Edward
No! You've NEVER sold a Taylor to buy another Taylor. Just hasn't happened. ;)
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i wrote this somewhere else, but a bracing like this would be amazing for a small body guitar, like a parlor, to add projection, volume, perfect intonation
hope they introduce a parlor with v class bracing and ill be having a NGD this year
parlor 12 fret vintage andy powers v class bracing...let’s go!
Yes zeebow, that's exactly what I was thinking! I happen to own a Taylor Parlor that sounds exquisite. The way Taylor seems to be coming up with new innovations that put many of their older models to shame over these past few years, I've taken some pleasure in that they haven't taken aim at my parlor. This news gives me optimism that they can turbo charge the small bodies and make them more versatile, while at the same time selfishly hoping they tip toe around the parlor as they've always seemed to do :P It looks like they're just targeting the GAs for now but an 812ce 12 fret with the promise of what the v-bracing claims to do, I bet that would be one sweet instrument!
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... If I'm wrong, I'm putting gear/guitars up for sale and wrangling my hands around one of these ......
Edward
No! You've NEVER sold a Taylor to buy another Taylor. Just hasn't happened. ;)
HA! Been outed again!! ...dang internet :D :D :D
Edward
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This should answer alot of the questions and initial skepticism.
https://mydigitalpublication.com/publication/?i=467173&%3Bver=html5&%3Bp=104#{"issue_id":467173,"page":104} (http://"https://mydigitalpublication.com/publication/?i=467173&%3Bver=html5&%3Bp=104#{"issue_id":467173,"page":104}")
Vintage expert George Gruhn, who dismisses most "new" guitar designs "as just different binding or inlay patterns," lends credence to Andy's claim, calling V-Class bracing a "genuine innovation." He adds that it has created "the best sounding and playing guitars Taylor has ever produced."
I am hard pressed to argue with George Gruhn, he literally wrote the book on acoustic guitars. The article linked is from Music Trades magazine and I believe it answers many of the questions floating around about why this is a big deal. Of course it has to deliver and I suspect it will with a positive note from George. Living in Nashville as a stringed instrument aficionado, you just know who George is. His credentials are impeccable, and is considered the greatest living expert in stringed instruments alive.
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Here’s an in-depth, no nonsense review which describes the sonic benefits and partially demonstrates them.
http://www.theguitarmagazine.com/gear/acoustic-guitars/taylor-koa-series-builders-edition-k14ce/ (http://"http://www.theguitarmagazine.com/gear/acoustic-guitars/taylor-koa-series-builders-edition-k14ce/")
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i wrote this somewhere else, but a bracing like this would be amazing for a small body guitar, like a parlor, to add projection, volume, perfect intonation
hope they introduce a parlor with v class bracing and ill be having a NGD this year
parlor 12 fret vintage andy powers v class bracing...let’s go!
You and me both, zeebow!
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I wish they would address the pre-amp issues with the ES2 instead of bracing. I still have my Taylors but do not gig with them anymore. They are either too hot or not hot enough depending on the venue. I keep switching between the ES2 pre-amp and the EST. I went the way of Doyle Dykes about 6 months ago with a Godin hybrid for live performances but love my Taylors for home playing.