Can't play either before buying..... suggestions?

[Kmeister]

Hi folks

Looking to add a 12 series to my collection- I have a Koa 26 already that I love!

Between two guitars, one of which is used and on the other side of the country, the other new but can't find in stock near me. In other words, can't try either.

Option 1) a used 712. I had a 714 of the same vintage years ago that I loved. Found a used one here:

 http://www.rainbowguitars.com/guitar/taylor/712e-12-fret-2014-grand-concert-acoustic-electric/to712e12ft4115/us

Option 2) a new 612

I have played the recoiled maple in the 14 body style before, but never in the GC size. No dealers near me have one.

I don't care about electronics. I mostly strum, with the odd fingerpicking.

Curious on feedback from folks about the sounds to expect. Will maple be too bright and twangy in such a small shape? Are the improvements in the maple worth buying new vs a 2014 712? Thanks!

[SoCalSurf]

Where do you live? I have a 2015 712 12-fret that is identical to the one for sale that I am considering selling. You are welcome to come check it out if you are close. I live in Southern California. You don't have to consider buying mine, but just to give it a try for yourself.

[timfitz63]

... I don't care about electronics. I mostly strum, with the odd fingerpicking...

Why the interest in the Grand Concert (GC) body?  I'm mostly a strummer as well, and find the GC's to be temperamental about strumming; some handle it OK, others not so well...  A Grand Auditorium, like those you've already tried, would seem to be the more suitable option for you -- a good all-around guitar for both strumming and fingerpicking...

... Curious on feedback from folks about the sounds to expect. Will maple be too bright and twangy in such a small shape? Are the improvements in the maple worth buying new vs a 2014 712?

In my experience with GC's (which is, admittedly, limited), Rosewood-bodied examples are nicely-balanced.  The re-voiced 600's are noticeably less bright than the 'legacy' models; I expect that characteristic would also be evident in the new 612's, but even so, I'm thinking even a new 612 will sound more bright than any 712 due to Rosewood's wider tonal range (i.e., more bass response).

[mgap]

I once owned a 712ce (not a 12th fret) and it was a sweet little guitar.  And ya, ya I will say it "I wish I had not let it go".  It had very nice balance, excellent bass, and beautiful highs.  I can not comment on the 612.

[Strumming Fool]

I also owned a 712 for a while - wonderful tonal quality,  but it couldn't withstand my moderate strumming style. I would recommend a 714 or a 614 for your next guitar. Both will sound quite different than your K26. There should be a fair amount of used, older versions of both on the market...

[Rev Roy]

Can't help with info on the 612. Haven't played one yet. But I do have a 2013 712e 12-fret and love it. Very comfortable and fun to play whether strumming or picking.

[jpmist]

I vote for the 712. My sister has one and it has a nice warm tone I like. Have never played a maple guitar I liked so I'm biased.

What is your goal here, to simply have another guitar or have something tonally different than what you already have? If you want a different tone a safer bet might be to consider a mahogany top, my recent 322 purchase turned out great for me.

[oldwasichu]

Would highly recommend the new 612 12-fret model. Was able to demo one at a Taylor Roadshow - not what you would come to expect from maple. The much expected brightness is not what you hear. It is very nicely balanced and perfect for fingerstyle IMO with a surprising amount of bass that you can feel. Crisp, but not bright, if that makes any sense. Very articulate, I guess you would say. It is one of my favorites of the new re-voiced series that Andy has done.

[Edward]

You own a koa guitar and you want another to compliment it?  I'd personally not choose a maple (from a guy who has maple guitars) because it will tend to be sonically similar.

OTOH, a cedar (or Engelmann) on a rosewood or ebony body would offer you a markedly different flavor that may just surprise you by how warm and "thick" it sounds.  Think creamy dark chocolate as a mood change from your pecan praline

Edward

[Sprintbob]

After recently getting a K22 12 fret, I agree with Edward above.

[Epic Audio]

Really a personal preference. Also, there are delta between guitars of the same model. Sometimes surprisingly large deltas. I would really suggest trying to work a deal to at least include shipping and buy both. Sell the one (or both) if you do not want. Good luck.