Looking for the perfect 12-string guitar? Taylor Guitars has a wide selection of 12-string guitars to choose from, each with its own unique sound and style.
Editor’s Note: 12-string guitars are a great choice for players who want a fuller, richer sound. They’re also perfect for fingerpicking and strumming.
To help you choose the right 12-string guitar for your needs, we’ve put together this guide. We’ll cover the different types of 12-string guitars available, as well as the pros and cons of each type. We’ll also provide some tips on how to choose the right 12-string guitar for your playing style.
Key Differences:
| Taylor 12-String | Other 12-String Guitars | |
|---|---|---|
| Body Shape | Grand Auditorium, Dreadnought, Jumbo | Smaller body shapes, such as the parlor and concert |
| Tonewoods | Spruce, mahogany, rosewood | Less expensive tonewoods, such as laminate |
| Electronics | ES2 pickup system | No electronics or less advanced electronics |
| Price | $1,000-$3,000 | $500-$1,500 |
Main Article Topics:
- Types of 12-String Guitars
- Pros and Cons of Different Types of 12-String Guitars
- How to Choose the Right 12-String Guitar for Your Playing Style
- Reviews of the Best 12-String Guitars
1. Body Shape
The body shape of a guitar is one of the most important factors that affects its sound. The size, shape, and materials used in the construction of the body all contribute to the guitar’s overall tone and projection.
- Grand Auditorium: The Grand Auditorium is a popular body shape for 12-string guitars. It offers a balanced sound with good projection and clarity.
- Dreadnought: The Dreadnought is another popular body shape for 12-string guitars. It produces a louder, more powerful sound than the Grand Auditorium, with a strong low end.
- Jumbo: The Jumbo is the largest body shape offered by Taylor for 12-string guitars. It produces the loudest, most powerful sound of the three body shapes, with a rich, full tone.
The body shape of a guitar is a matter of personal preference. Some players prefer the balanced sound of the Grand Auditorium, while others prefer the power and projection of the Dreadnought or Jumbo. Ultimately, the best way to choose the right body shape for you is to try out different guitars and see which one feels and sounds the best.
2. Tonewoods
The type of wood used in the construction of a guitar has a significant impact on its sound. Different woods have different tonal qualities, and guitar makers carefully select the woods they use to achieve the desired sound. Taylor Guitars uses a variety of tonewoods for its 12-string guitars, including spruce, mahogany, and rosewood.
Spruce is a lightweight wood with a bright, clear sound. It is often used for the soundboards of guitars because it produces a strong projection and articulation. Mahogany is a heavier wood with a warm, rich sound. It is often used for the backs and sides of guitars because it provides a full, resonant tone. Rosewood is a dense wood with a deep, complex sound. It is often used for the fingerboards and bridges of guitars because it provides a clear, articulate sound.
The combination of spruce, mahogany, and rosewood gives Taylor 12-string guitars a unique sound that is both bright and warm, with a strong projection and a rich, resonant tone. This makes them a popular choice for players who want a guitar with a versatile sound that can be used for a variety of genres.
Here is a table that summarizes the tonal qualities of the three main tonewoods used in Taylor 12-string guitars:
| Tonewood | Tonal Qualities |
|---|---|
| Spruce | Bright, clear, strong projection, articulate |
| Mahogany | Warm, rich, full, resonant |
| Rosewood | Deep, complex, clear, articulate |
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right tonewood for your 12-string guitar is to try out different guitars and see which one sounds the best to you. However, the information provided in this article can help you narrow down your choices and make an informed decision.
3. Electronics
The electronics in a 12-string guitar taylor allow you to amplify the sound of your guitar, making it suitable for playing in larger venues or with a band. The ES2 pickup system is a popular choice for Taylor 12-string guitars, as it provides a natural and balanced sound. The ES2 pickup system uses two sensors to capture the sound of the guitar’s strings. One sensor is mounted under the bridge, and the other is mounted inside the body of the guitar. This combination of sensors provides a full and rich sound that accurately reproduces the natural sound of the guitar.
There are many benefits to using electronics in a 12-string guitar taylor. First, it allows you to play your guitar at a higher volume, which is necessary for playing in larger venues or with a band. Second, electronics can help to improve the sound of your guitar by reducing feedback and unwanted noise. Third, electronics can make it easier to record your guitar, as you can simply plug your guitar into an audio interface and start recording.
If you are considering buying a 12-string guitar taylor, it is important to consider whether or not you want electronics. If you plan on playing your guitar in larger venues or with a band, then electronics are a good investment. However, if you only plan on playing your guitar for personal enjoyment, then you may not need electronics.
Here is a table that summarizes the key benefits of using electronics in a 12-string guitar taylor:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Increased volume | Allows you to play your guitar at a higher volume, which is necessary for playing in larger venues or with a band. |
| Reduced feedback | Helps to reduce feedback and unwanted noise, which can be a problem when playing at high volumes. |
| Easier recording | Makes it easier to record your guitar, as you can simply plug your guitar into an audio interface and start recording. |
4. Price
Price is an important factor to consider when purchasing any guitar, and Taylor 12-string guitars are no exception. The price of a Taylor 12-string guitar will vary depending on a number of factors, including the body shape, tonewoods, and electronics.
- Body Shape: The body shape of a guitar affects its sound and projection. Taylor offers 12-string guitars in a variety of body shapes, including the Grand Auditorium, Dreadnought, and Jumbo. Grand Auditorium guitars are known for their balanced sound, while Dreadnought guitars are known for their power and projection. Jumbo guitars are the largest and loudest of the three body shapes.
- Tonewoods: The type of wood used in the construction of a guitar also affects its sound. Taylor uses a variety of tonewoods for its 12-string guitars, including spruce, mahogany, and rosewood. Spruce is a lightweight wood with a bright, clear sound. Mahogany is a heavier wood with a warm, rich sound. Rosewood is a dense wood with a deep, complex sound.
- Electronics: Some Taylor 12-string guitars come equipped with electronics, such as the ES2 pickup system. This allows you to plug your guitar into an amplifier or PA system. Electronics can be a convenient feature for players who want to play their guitar in a variety of settings.
The price of a Taylor 12-string guitar will vary depending on the combination of body shape, tonewoods, and electronics that you choose. However, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 for a high-quality Taylor 12-string guitar.
5. Playing Style
The playing style of a guitarist has a significant impact on the type of guitar that is best suited for them. This is especially true for 12-string guitars, which have a unique sound and feel that can be difficult to master. Here are a few key factors to consider when choosing a 12-string guitar based on your playing style:
- Fingerstyle guitarists typically prefer guitars with a narrower neck. This is because a narrower neck makes it easier to play complex fingerpicking patterns. Additionally, fingerstyle guitarists often use lighter strings, which can be more difficult to play on a wider neck.
- Strumming guitarists, on the other hand, typically prefer guitars with a wider neck. This is because a wider neck provides more space for the strumming hand to move. Additionally, strumming guitarists often use heavier strings, which can be easier to play on a wider neck.
Of course, there are many other factors to consider when choosing a 12-string guitar, such as the body shape, tonewoods, and electronics. However, the playing style is one of the most important factors to keep in mind. By choosing a guitar that is well-suited to your playing style, you can make it easier to learn and play the 12-string guitar.
6. Sound
When it comes to choosing a 12-string guitar taylor, the sound is one of the most important factors to consider. After all, you want a guitar that sounds good to you and that will complement your playing style. However, the sound of a guitar is subjective, and what sounds good to one person may not sound good to another. That’s why it’s important to try out a variety of guitars before making a decision.
- Tonal Balance: The tonal balance of a guitar refers to the way in which the different frequencies are represented in its sound. A guitar with a good tonal balance will have a clear and even sound across the entire frequency range. This is important for 12-string guitars, as they can sometimes sound muddy or boomy if the tonal balance is not right.
- Projection: The projection of a guitar refers to how well it can be heard. A guitar with good projection will be able to be heard clearly even in a large room or when playing with other instruments. This is important for 12-string guitars, as they can sometimes be difficult to hear due to their lower volume.
- Responsiveness: The responsiveness of a guitar refers to how well it responds to the player’s touch. A guitar with good responsiveness will be easy to play and will allow the player to express themselves musically. This is important for 12-string guitars, as they can sometimes be difficult to play due to their wider necks and higher string tension.
- Versatility: The versatility of a guitar refers to how well it can be used for a variety of genres and playing styles. A guitar with good versatility will be able to handle a variety of different tunings and playing techniques. This is important for 12-string guitars, as they can be used for a variety of genres, from folk to rock to jazz.
By considering these factors, you can narrow down your choices and find a 12-string guitar taylor that sounds great and that is perfect for your playing style.
7. Reviews
Reading reviews of Taylor 12-string guitars can be a helpful way to narrow down your choices and find the right guitar for your needs. Reviews can provide you with valuable insights into the sound, playability, and quality of different guitars. They can also help you to identify any potential problems or drawbacks that you should be aware of before making a purchase.
When reading reviews, it is important to keep in mind that everyone has different tastes and preferences. What one person loves, another person may hate. That’s why it is important to read a variety of reviews from different sources before making a decision. You should also take the time to read the reviews carefully and critically. Pay attention to the reviewer’s experience level, playing style, and what they liked and disliked about the guitar. This will help you to determine whether or not the guitar is a good fit for you.
In addition to reading reviews from other players, you can also read reviews from guitar experts and magazines. These reviews can provide you with more objective information about the guitar’s sound, playability, and quality. However, it is important to keep in mind that even experts can have different opinions. That’s why it is important to read a variety of reviews from different sources before making a decision.
Reading reviews of Taylor 12-string guitars can be a helpful way to narrow down your choices and find the right guitar for your needs. By taking the time to read a variety of reviews from different sources, you can make an informed decision that you are happy with.
Table: Benefits of Reading Reviews of Taylor 12-String Guitars
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Get insights into the sound, playability, and quality of different guitars | Reviews can provide you with valuable information about the guitar’s overall performance. |
| Identify potential problems or drawbacks | Reviews can help you to identify any potential issues that you should be aware of before making a purchase. |
| Make an informed decision |
By reading a variety of reviews, you can make an informed decision about which guitar is right f or you. |
8. Warranty
The lifetime warranty offered by Taylor Guitars is a significant benefit for 12-string guitar players. It provides peace of mind knowing that your guitar is covered in the event of any defects, even if they occur years after you purchase the guitar. This is especially important for 12-string guitars, which are more complex to build and can be more susceptible to defects than 6-string guitars.
The lifetime warranty covers all aspects of the guitar, including the body, neck, frets, and hardware. This means that you can be confident that your guitar will be repaired or replaced if it is damaged or defective. This is a valuable benefit, especially if you play your guitar regularly or if you travel with your guitar.
In addition to the peace of mind that it provides, the lifetime warranty also adds value to your 12-string guitar. A guitar with a lifetime warranty is more valuable than a guitar without a warranty, and it will hold its value better over time. This is important if you ever decide to sell your guitar.
Overall, the lifetime warranty offered by Taylor Guitars is a valuable benefit for 12-string guitar players. It provides peace of mind, adds value to your guitar, and ensures that you will be able to enjoy your guitar for many years to come.
Table: Benefits of the Taylor Guitars Lifetime Warranty
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Peace of mind | Knowing that your guitar is covered in the event of any defects gives you peace of mind. |
| Added value | A guitar with a lifetime warranty is more valuable than a guitar without a warranty. |
| Ensured enjoyment | The lifetime warranty ensures that you will be able to enjoy your guitar for many years to come. |
FAQs for “12 String Guitar Taylor”
This section addresses frequently asked questions regarding 12-string guitars crafted by Taylor, aiming to provide comprehensive and educational responses.
Question 1: What factors differentiate 12-string guitars from Taylor from those of other manufacturers?
Answer: Taylor Guitars are renowned for their meticulous attention to detail and the use of premium tonewoods. These guitars exhibit exceptional craftsmanship, resulting in instruments that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also deliver a superior acoustic experience.
Question 2: How does the body shape of a 12-string guitar influence its sound?
Answer: The body shape significantly impacts the tonal characteristics of a 12-string guitar. Taylor offers a range of body shapes, including the Grand Auditorium, Dreadnought, and Jumbo. Each shape produces distinct sound profiles, catering to different playing styles and musical genres.
Question 3: What are the advantages of utilizing electronics in a 12-string guitar?
Answer: Incorporating electronics into a 12-string guitar offers several benefits. It allows for amplification, enabling the guitar to be heard clearly in larger venues or ensemble settings. Additionally, electronics can assist in reducing feedback and enhancing the overall sound quality during live performances.
Question 4: How should I select the appropriate 12-string guitar for my playing style?
Answer: Choosing the ideal 12-string guitar for your playing style requires careful consideration. Factors such as fingerstyle versus strumming preferences, desired sound characteristics, and comfort level with different neck shapes should all be taken into account. It is advisable to try out various guitars to determine the one that best aligns with your playing technique.
Question 5: What sets Taylor’s 12-string guitars apart in terms of sound quality?
Answer: Taylor’s 12-string guitars are meticulously crafted using high-quality tonewoods, such as spruce, mahogany, and rosewood. The combination of these woods, along with Taylor’s innovative bracing patterns, results in guitars that produce a rich, resonant, and well-balanced sound. This tonal excellence makes them highly sought after by musicians seeking exceptional acoustic performance.
Question 6: What is covered under the Taylor Guitars lifetime warranty?
Answer: Taylor Guitars offers a comprehensive lifetime warranty that encompasses all aspects of the guitar, including the body, neck, frets, and hardware. This warranty provides peace of mind to owners, ensuring that their investment is protected against any manufacturing defects or material failures for the lifetime of the instrument.
In conclusion, Taylor’s 12-string guitars are highly regarded for their exceptional craftsmanship, superior sound quality, and versatility. Whether you are a seasoned professional or an aspiring musician, Taylor offers a wide range of 12-string guitars to suit your specific needs and musical aspirations.
Discover more about Taylor’s 12-string guitars and immerse yourself in the world of exceptional acoustic instruments.
Tips for Playing the 12-String Guitar by Taylor
To maximize your playing experience with a 12-string guitar from Taylor, consider implementing these valuable tips:
Use a Light Touch: The 12-string guitar’s increased string count demands a lighter touch compared to a 6-string guitar. Applying excessive pressure can hinder your playing and potentially damage the instrument.
Tune Regularly: Due to the higher string tension and greater number of strings, a 12-string guitar requires more frequent tuning. Regular tuning ensures optimal intonation and playing comfort.
Experiment with Different Tunings: While standard tuning is common, exploring alternative tunings can unlock unique sonic possibilities. Experiment with open tunings or dropped tunings to expand your musical horizons.
Utilize a Capo: A capo can be a valuable tool for transposing songs to different keys on a 12-string guitar. It allows you to play in more comfortable positions and explore various voicings.
Choose the Right Strings: Selecting the appropriate strings is crucial for optimizing the sound and playability of your 12-string guitar. Consider factors such as string gauge, material, and coating to find the strings that best complement your playing style.
Practice Consistently: As with any instrument, consistent practice is essential for developing proficiency on the 12-string guitar. Dedicate regular time to practicing scales, chords, and songs to enhance your skills.
Explore Different Playing Techniques: The 12-string guitar offers a diverse range of playing techniques. Experiment with fingerpicking, strumming, and hybrid picking to discover the unique sonic capabilities of the instrument.
Maintain Your Guitar: Proper maintenance is vital for preserving the longevity and performance of your 12-string guitar. Regularly clean the guitar, adjust the truss rod as needed, and consider professional servicing to ensure optimal playing condition.
Incorporating these tips into your playing routine will not only enhance your technique but also deepen your appreciation for the unique sonic qualities of the 12-string guitar by Taylor.
Conclusion
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prehensive exploration of “12 string guitar taylor” has illuminated the exceptional craftsmanship, unparalleled sound quality, and versatility of these instruments. Taylor Guitars’ unwavering commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of their 12-string guitars, from the meticulous selection of tonewoods to the innovative bracing patterns.
These guitars are not merely musical instruments; they are works of art, capable of producing a rich tapestry of sound that captivates audiences and inspires musicians alike. Whether you are a seasoned professional or an aspiring guitarist, a Taylor 12-string guitar has the potential to elevate your playing to new heights.
As you embark on your musical journey with a Taylor 12-string guitar, remember the tips and advice shared throughout this article. Embrace the unique sonic possibilities of the instrument, experiment with different tunings and techniques, and dedicate yourself to consistent practice. With time and effort, you will unlock the full potential of your Taylor 12-string guitar and create music that resonates with passion, beauty, and unparalleled depth.
