Newer 714ce vs. older 814ce ?

[SkyHigh]

714ce now comes with Sitka top. I am especially interested hearing your thoughts on the newer 714ce with Sitka top. Also how is this model different than older 814ce?

Thanks

[Strumming Fool]

It's mainly aesthetics -- soundwise, they should be quite similar. Some folks (like me) really enjoy the "lower" grade rosewood used on the 700s. The grain is not as tight or even as the 800s and 900s respectively, so there can be a bit more character to it. In addition, some of us feel that the looser grain makes for a more open, sweeter sound, but your experience may vary....

[SkyHigh]

Can anyone else confirm older 814ce(pre Andy Powers) bracing to be same or different than current 714ce???

So basically how would 2013 814ce compared to 2015 714ce in terms of bracing and possible tone?

Thanks!

[tedtan]

The 814ce has had numerous bracing patterns over the years, each yielding differing results. You can read more about them here: https://www.taylorguitars.com/guitars/acoustic/features/bracing. The years they were used are approximately:

Standard X: up through early 2003
Standard II (Forward Shifted): 2003 through early 2010
CV: mid 2010 through 2013
Advanced Performance: 2014 and up

Note that these bracing patterns are still used in the Taylor lineup today: Standard is used up through the 200 series, Standard II is used on the 300 through 700 series (except the new 600 series), advanced performance is used on the revoiced 600, 800 and 900 series, and the CV pattern is still used on the Presentation series instruments.

So essentially, the bracing pattern would be the same as the new 714ce on the mid 2003 through early 2010 model 814ce. Other years will feature different bracing patterns.