Taylor has completely redefined acoustic excellence with the introduction of the Gold Label 814e, and to say we’re impressed would be an understatement. While it shares the 814e name, this stunning new model stands in a league of its own, pushing the boundaries of craftsmanship, tone, and design.
From the moment we first saw it at the Taylor factory, we knew this was something special. With a new body shape, innovative bracing, and a redesigned neck system, the Gold Label 814e isn’t just an evolution—it’s a revolution.
A New Body Shape – The Super Auditorium
At first glance, the Super Auditorium may seem similar to Taylor’s famous Grand Auditorium, but the differences are immediately apparent once you strum your first chord. The slightly longer body and wider lower bout add enhanced low-end presence, making this guitar warmer, richer, and more powerful than ever before.
New Bracing – Fanned V-Class for Unparalleled Warmth
The Fanned V-Class bracing takes the revolutionary V-Class concept a step further by incorporating a fan-like pattern secured with traditional hide glue. This results in more midrange power, greater dynamic range, and incredible harmonic complexity, creating a voice that’s full, warm, and vintage-inspired.
New Neck Joint – The Long-Tenon Action Control Neck
A key innovation in the Gold Label 814e is its Long-Tenon neck joint, which enhances wood coupling for greater resonance and sustain. While some might assume it’s a traditional glued neck, it actually features a bolt-on design that allows for precise adjustability without the need for major repairs—a huge advantage for players who want to tweak their action over time.
Tonewoods & Sonic Character
Players can choose between Honduran rosewood or Hawaiian koa for the back and sides, paired with a torrefied Sitka spruce top. This combination produces:
🎵 Deep, woody lows and round, smooth trebles
🎵 A blooming, open voice that grows richer over time
🎵 Enhanced sustain and resonance thanks to the new neck joint
The Super Auditorium shape, combined with these premium tonewoods, delivers a sound that feels like a nod to vintage guitars from the 1930s and ’40s—but with the modern playability that Taylor is known for.
Electronics – Why No ES2?
Instead of Taylor’s Expression System® 2 (ES2), the Gold Label 814e is equipped with LR Baggs Element VTC electronics. The reason? Tone.
The LR Baggs Element VTC was chosen for its warmer, more vintage-inspired sound, perfectly complementing the heritage character of the Gold Label series. It delivers a natural, organic tone, making it a fantastic match for this tradition-meets-innovation design.
Common Questions Answered
💡 Does it have a bolt-on neck joint?
Yes! The Long-Tenon Action Control Neck is bolted on, offering enhanced resonance and adjustability.
💡 What strings are recommended for the 814e?
The D'Addario XS Light (012"-053") strings are the perfect match for this guitar.
💡 Why choose LR Baggs Element VTC over ES2?
The Element VTC provides a warmer, vintage-inspired tone that better suits the character of the Gold Label 814e, while the ES2 has a more modern, high-fidelity response.
Final Thoughts – A Taylor Unlike Any Other
Taylor has completely outdone themselves with the Gold Label 814e. It’s not just a new guitar—it’s a new experience. Whether you’re a lifelong Taylor fan or someone who prefers the warmth of vintage acoustics, this guitar will blow you away with its depth, power, and dynamic range.
If you’re looking for a guitar that bridges tradition with innovation, the Taylor Gold Label 814e is a must-play. Experience it for yourself at Colemans Music!
