Fear and Trembling...

[beachbum205]

Well, I did it- I installed a LR Baggs M1A in my 214, and I'm telling you, I was scared!

I have done some small modifications before, but this was the first time I ever drilled a 1/2 inch hole in my guitar, and it wasn't easy, at least for me. Did a pilot hole and then used a step drill bit. I am not handy, my eyesight is not the greatest, and I truly hate doing jobs like this. There were definitely some bumps in the road, but in the end, it all worked out.

BTW, this pickup sounds fantastic and really exceeded my expectations. Glad I can relax now and enjoy it! 

[TaylorGirl]

Wow, I bet you're really relieved. Congratulations  on a successful  job.

[DennisG]

That takes real chutzpah.  Congratulations!

[Edward]

Congrats on the successful DIY!  BTW, I've put in an M1 in a friend's guit some time ago and was likewise impressed with the tone.  Enjoy ...and bask in your success!

Edward

[beachbum205]

Thanks for the kind words and the encouragement!

This all came about because I was under the false impression that all Taylors already had a 1/2 inch hole in the end block. I didn’t realize that older models (mine is 2009) did not. If I had unscrewed the end pin before I bought the pickup, this would have been clear, and I might not have even attempted the installation. But since I had purchased the pickup, rather then return it, i decided to plow ahead. I’m actually very glad that I did now.

No risk, no reward, right? 

[Earl]

This all came about because I was under the false impression that all Taylors already had a 1/2 inch hole in the end block. I didn’t realize that older models (mine is 2009) did not.

Huh.... that is new information.  I would have posted that "all Taylors have a 1/2" end pin hole already" myself.  I stand corrected, and glad that it all worked out.  I've heard good things about the Baggs M1 pickup, but have never tried one. 

Back in the day, I remember the trepidation of drilling into my then-new custom shop Martin to put a strap button on the heel.  It was either that or drive almost two hours in horrible traffic to let Gryphon do it.  I've since added strap buttons maybe 20 times on other guitars and ukulele for myself and others.

[beachbum205]

Back in the day, I remember the trepidation of drilling into my then-new custom shop Martin to put a strap button on the heel.  It was either that or drive almost two hours in horrible traffic to let Gryphon do it.  I've since added strap buttons maybe 20 times on other guitars and ukulele for myself and others.

Earl, I can remember that very same feeling of trepidation the first time I installed a strap button on a guitar heel as well. Especially given my lack of ability doing this sort of thing. And of course, this endeavor took things to a whole new level of fear! 

Thank goodness for YouTube videos!