Best Taylor Other Acoustic Guitars 2026
Alright, so you're looking beyond the 114ce and 214e - smart move. Taylor's got a lot of guitars that don't get the spotlight, and some of them are seriously killer. We're talking about instruments that offer different voicings, build approaches, and price points that can seriously up your game, whether you're tracking a solo acoustic record or gigging out with a band. Let's dig in and find something that fits your needs.
Last updated: May 27, 2026 • Next update: June 3, 2026
#1
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Taylor Academy 10e LTD Koa/Spruce
by
Taylor
Creative Expression
Unique Designs
Experimental Music
Key Feature:
This Academy 10e LTD is a seriously appealing package for intermediate players looking for a Koa aesthetic without the premium price tag. The solid top and Taylor electronics make it surprisingly versatile, and the build quality is solid for the series. It’s a great choice for singer-songwriters or anyone wanting a balanced acoustic voice with amplified options.
PROS
- • Koa back/sides offer warm overtones and a beautiful aesthetic.
- • Solid torrified spruce top delivers strong projection and responsiveness.
- • Taylor ES-B pickup system provides a usable amplified tone for stage or recording.
- • Academy bracing enhances clarity and volume, typical of higher-end Taylors.
CONS
- • Laminated koa back/sides, while attractive, limit the tonal complexity of all-koa instruments.
- • Smoked eucalyptus fingerboard might feel unfamiliar to players accustomed to ebony or rosewood.
- • The dreadnought body size might be unwieldy for smaller players or travel.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 617273
$1,209
#2
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Taylor Custom #20: C18ce B5020
by
Taylor
Experimental Music
Alternative Styles
Custom Features
Key Feature:
This Custom #20 is a serious instrument—a beautifully crafted Grand Orchestra with stunning Bocote figuring. The V-Class bracing really opens up the sound, giving it a powerful projection and clarity, while the Expression System 2 ensures a faithful amplified tone. It’s a premium-priced guitar geared towards the discerning player who appreciates exceptional craftsmanship and a refined voice.
PROS
- • Bocote back/sides deliver rich, complex overtones and striking aesthetics.
- • V-Class bracing provides exceptional sustain and balanced tonal response.
- • Expression System 2 pickup offers a remarkably natural amplified sound.
- • Crelicam ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, articulate playing experience.
CONS
- • The Bocote wood can be prone to hairline cracking with humidity fluctuations.
- • The weight, typical of guitars with dense woods, might be fatiguing for some players.
- • Limited production run makes it difficult to acquire and potentially less resale value.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 610481
$8,359
#3
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Taylor 814ce Special Edition Charcoal
by
Taylor
Specialty Applications
Unique Designs
Creative Expression
Key Feature:
This 814ce Special Edition Charcoal is a serious instrument—the V-Class bracing really opens up the sound and makes it incredibly responsive. The Charcoal Burst finish is undeniably gorgeous, and the Expression System 2 pickup handles stage volume beautifully. It's ideal for the discerning player seeking a premium-voiced, versatile, and beautifully crafted guitar for both fingerstyle and strumming.
PROS
- • V-Class bracing delivers exceptional projection and sustain.
- • Solid rosewood back/sides provide rich, complex overtones.
- • Expression System 2 pickup offers natural amplified tone and clarity.
- • Graphite nut and Micarta bridge enhance stability and intonation.
CONS
- • The Charcoal Burst finish, while striking, may not appeal to all tastes.
- • Grand Auditorium body can feel slightly large for players with smaller frames.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 622477
$5,829
#4
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Taylor Custom #12: C14ce B5012
by
Taylor
Experimental Music
Creative Expression
Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
This Custom #12 is a seriously refined instrument. The maple back and V-Class bracing create a balanced, responsive sound – it’s incredibly clear and projects beautifully. It's a fantastic choice for gigging musicians or discerning players who demand top-tier quality and a sophisticated aesthetic.
PROS
- • Big Leaf maple back/sides deliver focused, articulate projection and a refined tone.
- • V-Class bracing enhances sustain and harmonic complexity, a signature Taylor innovation.
- • Expression System 2 pickup provides exceptionally natural amplified tone and feedback resistance.
- • Crelicam ebony fingerboard and nut offer smooth playability and rich, dark tonal qualities.
CONS
- • Solid black finish, while striking, can highlight minor scratches and wear.
- • Grand Auditorium body might be slightly large for players with smaller frames.
- • Premium-priced, placing it beyond the reach of many casual or beginner players.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 610473
$5,939
#5
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Taylor 214ce Plus Special Edition TG
by
Taylor
Creative Expression
Experimental Music
Custom Features
Key Feature:
This 214ce Plus Special Edition is a fantastic all-arounder. The solid top gives it a real voice, and the V-Class bracing makes it surprisingly responsive. It's a great choice for gigging singer-songwriters or players wanting a well-built, amplified instrument with a comfortable feel.
PROS
- • Solid Engelmann spruce top delivers balanced, articulate tone.
- • V-Class bracing enhances sustain and projection significantly.
- • Ebony fingerboard and Tusq saddle offer smooth playability.
- • ES2 Expression System pickup provides exceptional amplified clarity.
CONS
- • Spruce top might be too bright for some players' preferences.
- • Laminated back and sides limit the overall tonal complexity.
- • Trans Grey finish, while attractive, can show fingerprints easily.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 617270
$1,814
#6
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Taylor Builders Edition 514ce KB
by
Taylor
Custom Features
Alternative Styles
Experimental Music
Key Feature:
This Builders Edition 514ce KB is a seriously refined instrument. The urban ash gives it a unique voice – articulate and warm – that sits beautifully in a mix. It’s a fantastic choice for gigging musicians or discerning players who appreciate a blend of modern innovation and classic Taylor quality.
PROS
- • Urban ash back/sides deliver a uniquely balanced, articulate tone with surprising warmth.
- • V-Class bracing significantly enhances sustain and projection, exceeding standard Taylor designs.
- • Expression System 2 pickup provides exceptionally natural amplified sound, capturing nuances well.
- • Crelicam ebony fingerboard offers a smooth, responsive playing experience and striking aesthetics.
CONS
- • Kona Burst gloss finish, while beautiful, may be a fingerprint magnet for some users.
- • The urban ash can be slightly less resonant than traditional rosewood for certain playing styles.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment compared to entry-level acoustic guitars.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 614714
$4,289
#7
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Taylor Custom #16: Amber Tide
by
Taylor
Custom Features
Experimental Music
Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
This Amber Tide Custom #16 is a real statement piece. The combination of sinker redwood and flamed maple creates a bright, articulate tone with surprising depth—it's fantastic for players who want a guitar that cuts through a mix or shines in a solo setting. This is a high-end instrument aimed at the serious player who appreciates unique materials and meticulous craftsmanship.
PROS
- • Sinker redwood top delivers a uniquely responsive and complex tonal character.
- • Big Leaf flamed maple back and sides offer focused projection and a refined aesthetic.
- • Expression System 2 pickup provides exceptionally natural amplified tone with nuanced dynamics.
- • Crelicam ebony fingerboard and nut ensure smooth playability and rich sustain.
CONS
- • The limited run of 25 makes acquisition challenging and resale value potentially volatile.
- • The maple construction might lack the warmth preferred by some for softer fingerstyle playing.
- • Premium-priced, placing it outside the reach of many aspiring guitarists.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 610477
$8,359
#8
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Taylor Custom #10: The Monument
by
Taylor
Unique Designs
Specialty Applications
Creative Expression
Key Feature:
This Custom #10 Monument is a serious instrument – the combination of sinker cypress and black limba gives it a uniquely mature voice. The 12-fret design and comfortable neck make it a joy to play, and the LR Baggs pickup means it's ready for the stage. It’s ideal for discerning players seeking a refined, expressive acoustic with a boutique vibe.
PROS
- • Sinker cypress top delivers a uniquely responsive, complex, and aged tonal character.
- • Black Limba back and sides contribute warmth and sustain, balancing the cypress' brightness.
- • 12-fret design enhances resonance and provides exceptional playability with a shorter scale.
- • L.R. Baggs Element VTC pickup system offers a clean, amplified tone suitable for stage performance.
CONS
- • Sinker cypress can exhibit unpredictable grain patterns, potentially impacting long-term stability.
- • The limited production run (20 pieces) makes acquisition difficult and resale value speculative.
- • The 12-fret design, while comfortable, may feel unusual for players accustomed to 14-fret guitars.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 610466
$8,579
#9
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Taylor Custom #39: Madera Regal
by
Taylor
Unique Designs
Specialty Applications
Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
This Madera Regal is a serious statement piece. The Katalox delivers a rich, complex voice with a powerful low-end, while the torrefied top provides immediate responsiveness. It's perfect for the discerning player who demands exceptional tone and build quality, especially those performing fingerstyle or seeking a refined, articulate sound for recording.
PROS
- • Katalox back/sides deliver a focused, complex tone with incredible sustain.
- • Torrefied Sitka top offers aged warmth and responsiveness right out of the box.
- • Expression System 2 provides exceptionally natural amplified tone, remarkably balanced.
- • Hawaiian Koa inlays and rosette add stunning visual flair and premium craftsmanship.
CONS
- • Katalox's density might make the guitar feel slightly heavier than some alternatives.
- • The limited run of 20 pieces makes acquisition challenging and potentially frustrating.
- • The bright, focused tone, while beautiful, may not suit all playing styles or genres.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 610493
$6,599
#10
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Taylor Custom #26: C14ce B5026
by
Taylor
Experimental Music
Custom Features
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
This Custom #26 is a real statement piece. The maple back and V-Class bracing give it a powerful, articulate voice that really cuts through, while the Expression System 2 keeps things sounding natural when plugged in. It’s perfect for the discerning player who wants a premium instrument for stage and studio – someone who appreciates craftsmanship and a truly exceptional tone.
PROS
- • Big Leaf Quilted Maple back/sides deliver stunning aesthetics and focused tone.
- • V-Class bracing enhances projection and sustain significantly beyond standard Taylors.
- • Expression System 2 pickup provides exceptionally natural amplified tone and feedback resistance.
- • Crelicam ebony fingerboard and binding offer a luxurious feel and exceptional note definition.
CONS
- • The Cranberry Color Shift finish, while beautiful, can be prone to fingerprints.
- • The Grand Auditorium body may be slightly large for smaller players or those preferring a more intimate feel.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many guitarists.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 610486
$6,599
#11
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Taylor 214ce Plus Special Edition TB
by
Taylor
Unique Designs
Experimental Music
Custom Features
Key Feature:
The 214ce Plus Special Edition TB is a fantastic all-around guitar, especially for gigging singer-songwriters or players needing a reliable amplified sound. The V-Class bracing really opens up the sound, giving it a surprising amount of volume and clarity, while the Trans Blue finish adds a touch of personality. It’s a premium-priced instrument that offers a great balance of features and performance.
PROS
- • Solid Engelmann spruce top provides excellent clarity and projection.
- • Sapele back and sides offer a warm, balanced tonal foundation.
- • Expression System 2 pickup delivers remarkably natural amplified sound.
- • Ebony fingerboard and Tusq saddle contribute to smooth playability and sustain.
CONS
- • The high-gloss finish, while beautiful, can feel a bit sticky for some players.
- • Sapele laminate, while good, isn't as tonally complex as all-solid wood.
- • Trans Blue finish might not appeal to players preferring more traditional aesthetics.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 617264
$1,814
#12
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Taylor Custom #7: Horizons
by
Taylor
Alternative Styles
Specialty Applications
Experimental Music
Key Feature:
This Custom #7 Horizons is a serious instrument – a beautifully crafted Grand Auditorium that’s all about refined tone and feel. The redwood top sings with a vibrant character, beautifully balanced by the rosewood, and the Expression System 2 makes it stage-ready. This is for the discerning player who appreciates premium materials and exceptional build quality.
PROS
- • Redwood top delivers exceptional clarity and shimmering overtones.
- • Indian rosewood back/sides provide rich lows and sustain.
- • V-Class bracing enhances volume and dynamic range significantly.
- • Expression System 2 pickup offers remarkably natural amplified tone.
CONS
- • High-end price point puts it out of reach for many players.
- • Rosewood can be prone to cracking in excessively dry climates.
- • Grand Auditorium shape isn't ideal for aggressive percussive playing.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 610456
$7,919
#13
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Taylor Custom #5: C17e B5005
by
Taylor
Creative Expression
Custom Features
Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
This Custom #5 C17e B5005 is a seriously impressive instrument. The Grand Pacific body shape gives it a powerful, focused voice, while the torrefied top adds a beautiful aged warmth. It's ideal for players who need a stage-ready acoustic with exceptional clarity and projection – a real workhorse for performing artists.
PROS
- • Torrefied Sitka top delivers exceptional warmth and projection.
- • Neo-tropical mahogany back/sides offer a balanced, focused tone.
- • Expression System 2 provides natural amplified sound, great for stage.
- • Crelicam ebony fingerboard and binding enhance playability and aesthetics.
CONS
- • Pearl White finish may be polarizing for some players’ tastes.
- • Grand Pacific body shape isn’t ideal for fingerstyle players seeking extreme bass response.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many guitarists.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 610455
$6,599
#14
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Taylor GS Mini-e Special Ed BlueBurst
by
Taylor
Creative Expression
Unique Designs
Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
The GS Mini-e Special Ed BlueBurst is a fantastic travel guitar or a comfortable couch companion. That torrefied top really gives it a bigger voice than you'd expect from a mini, and the ES-B pickup system is a huge upgrade for amplified performance. It's a great choice for singer-songwriters or anyone needing a portable, quality instrument.
PROS
- • Solid torrefied Sitka top delivers a surprisingly mature, warm tone.
- • Sapele laminated back & sides provide excellent projection and sustain.
- • Taylor ES-B pickup system offers natural amplified sound with impressive clarity.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, fast playing experience and rich tone.
CONS
- • Sapele laminate limits the overall tonal complexity compared to all-solid instruments.
- • Mini size might be a bit cramped for players with larger hands.
- • BlueBurst finish, while beautiful, might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 620445
$989
#15
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Taylor Custom #11: Whiskey Sunrise
by
Taylor
Alternative Styles
Experimental Music
Custom Features
Key Feature:
This Custom #11 is a real statement piece. The Urban Ash gives it a distinctive voice—bright, focused, and with a surprising warmth. It's ideal for discerning players who want a high-end instrument with a unique aesthetic and incredible responsiveness, particularly suited for fingerstyle and contemporary genres.
PROS
- • Urban ash top and back deliver a uniquely balanced, articulate tone.
- • V-Class bracing enhances sustain and projection, a noticeable improvement.
- • Expression System 2 pickup provides exceptionally natural amplified sound.
- • Crelicam ebony fingerboard offers a smooth, refined playing experience.
CONS
- • Urban ash, while beautiful, might not appeal to players seeking a traditional tonewood.
- • The premium-priced nature limits accessibility for many players.
- • Grand Auditorium body may be slightly large for smaller players or travel.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 610471
$6,599
How to Choose the Best Other Acoustic Guitars
1
Bracing Patterns
Taylor's V-Class bracing, introduced a few years back, fundamentally changed their tone. It adds sustain and headroom without sacrificing that signature clarity. Older X-bracing models still have a distinct, often more focused, character, which can be desirable depending on your style.
2
Tonewood Combinations
While mahogany-spruce is classic, Taylor experiments with rosewood, koa, and even ovangkol. Each pairing brings a unique sonic fingerprint - rosewood delivers that lush, complex low-end thump, koa offers a warmer, more mellow midrange, and ovangkol sits somewhere in between with a bit more punch.
3
Neck Profile & Playability
Taylor's neck profiles are generally consistent and comfortable, but subtle variations exist. A slimmer profile will be easier for faster playing, while a chunkier neck can offer more stability and a more substantial feel, especially when playing with a heavier pick.
4
Electronics & Pickup Voicing
If you need to plug in, Taylor's Expression System 2 (ES2) is a significant step up from earlier systems. It's more natural sounding and handles feedback better. However, the voicing can still be a little scooped in the mids - something to consider if you need to cut through a loud band mix.
5
Build Quality & Consistency
Taylor's reputation for consistent build quality is well-earned. Even their less expensive models generally exhibit excellent craftsmanship and attention to detail. However, factory-installed setups can sometimes be a little high - be prepared to have it adjusted by a tech if needed.
Buying Guide
Don't get caught up in the hype; think about what you really need. If you're primarily a bedroom player, a used 300-series or 400-series can be a steal. For stage work, prioritize a guitar that's comfortable to hold and has good feedback rejection. And honestly, a professional setup is almost always worth the investment - it'll transform even a decent guitar into a joy to play.
Our Methodology
We don't just look at specs here. We've spent countless hours playing these guitars, A/B'ing them against competitors, and, crucially, putting them through the wringer - live gigs, tracking sessions, and everything in between. It's about real-world performance and how these instruments feel and sound under pressure, not just what the brochure says.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends. They're not the cheapest, but you're paying for consistent quality, reliable bracing, and generally excellent playability. Weigh that against alternatives - you might find similar tone elsewhere for less, but the build consistency is a real asset.
The 300 series generally features solid wood back and sides (as opposed to layered wood in the 200 series), resulting in a richer, more resonant tone and better sustain. It's a noticeable upgrade, especially in a recording environment.
Absolutely. Taylor's string changes are straightforward, just like any other acoustic. The neck heel design is comfortable and accessible, making it easy to get in there and get the job done.
They can be, especially the spruce-topped models. However, the V-Class bracing has mellowed that out considerably. Tonewood selection plays a huge role - mahogany or koa tops will be significantly warmer.
Taylor holds its value well, but the used market is a great place to find deals. Just be sure to inspect the neck for any bowing and check the action to ensure it's comfortable for your playing style.
