Taylor

Of all the body sizes manufactured by Taylor, the Grand Auditorium reigns supreme.  The popularity of the design can largely be attributed to the inherent versatility it offers.  The body shape itself could be described as that of a dreadnought that went on a diet, in that the upper and lower dimensions are consistent with a dreadnought, but the waistline is more indented.  This results in a body that still has much of the dimension, power, and depth of tone associated with a dreadnought, but the balance, clarity, and more refined presence of a smaller body. 

This 2003 300-Series Grand Auditorium was part of a limited run that featured some beautiful Hawaiian Koa for the back and sides, as opposed to Sapele.  Similar to tonewoods like Mahogany or Sapele, Koa skews towards the brighter end of the sonic spectrum.  Yet, many builders have expressed that Koa has a slightly warmer response than some of the other “bright” tonewoods at the outset; and, perhaps more importantly, it has a tendency to mature more dramatically than many other woods in terms of frequency response (i.e., bass response and overall warmth seem to expand over time and use).  In addition to its appealing sonic qualities, Koa is also prized for its aesthetic appeal, characterized by rich amber and caramel hues as well as a tendency to exhibit captivating curl and figure. 

Indeed, both the versatility of the Taylor Grand Auditorium design and all of the attractive qualities of Koa are proudly on display with this exceptional 314.  One is immediately struck by an exciting degree of power and dynamic range in the guitar.  As one would expect of Taylor in general, the notes are very clear and well-separated; however, this guitar produces an unexpectedly hearty and rich midrange that is supported by a surprisingly firm note foundation.   Needless to say, this 314-LTD has matured wonderfully since it first left our store more than 20 years ago, to the point where it will certainly give any recently-made young Taylor whippersnapper a good run for its money (for less!). 

Condition:

For its age, this 314 is in extremely clean condition.  We do note a little finish blistering on the body along the neck heel, especially on the back edge.  There are also some faint signs of similar finish separation along sections of the binding on the sides. Yet, unlike the area around the neck joint, these areas along the binding are more likely attributed to natural settling of the finish—this settling is evident on both the back and sides.  Otherwise, apart from a couple of nearly imperceptible pinhead-sized dents on the body, one would be challenged to find any evidence of cosmetic wear.  EXCELLENT+ to NEAR MINT condition.

• Grand Auditorium
• Sitka Spruce Top
• Sitka Spruce X-Bracing
• Solid Hawaiian Koa Back and Sides
• Black Plastic Binding
• 2-Ply Black/White Purfling
• Three Ring Rosette
• High Gloss Body Finish
• Mahogany Neck
• C Neck Carve
• Finger-jointed Headstock
• Rosewood Headstock Veneer and Truss Rod Cover
• Ebony Fingerboard
• Mother of Pearl Large Dot Fingerboard Inlay
• Satin Neck Finish
• Ebony Bridge
• Chrome Tuners
• TUSQ Nut
• Micarta Saddle
• Faux Tortoiseshell Pickguard
• 1 3/4” Nut Width
• 5” Scale Length
• Taylor Western Floral Hard Shell Case