Used Taylor Instruments

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United States|Founded 1974|19 instruments tracked|472 active listings

About Taylor

Taylor Guitars was founded in 1974 in El Cajon, California by Bob Taylor and Kurt Listug. The company is known for precise bolt-on neck construction and a brighter, more articulate acoustic tone compared to Martin. Taylor's 100 and 200 series use layered back and sides, while solid wood starts at the 300 series. The 800 and 900 series are premium instruments favored by professionals. Taylor guitars hold their value well on the used market, with CE models (which include built-in electronics) particularly popular for live performance.

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Buying Used Taylor: Practical Guide

When buying used Taylor guitars, focus on specific models and their nuances. The 100 and 200 series are solid starting points for budget-conscious players. Prices typically range from $300 to $800 depending on condition and year. Steer clear of models with visible cracks or substantial wear. Check the neck angle. A poorly set neck can be costly to fix. Inspect the fretboard for signs of excessive wear, especially on frequently played sections. Look for original parts. Many Taylors come with proprietary electronics and hardware. If parts are swapped, their value diminishes significantly. Check

Taylor Production Eras

Pre-Production Era

1974-1976

The early Taylors feature unique design elements and handcrafted touches, offering a more personal sound. These are often prized for their character.

Collectible — price accordingly

First Production Era

1976-1985

This period marks the transition to factory production. Guitars from this era have a distinctive tonal depth and playability.

Best value

Post-1990 Modern Era

1990-2000

Guitars from this zone have refined construction techniques. They reflect Taylor's push for innovation and consistency in quality.

Watch for models with electronics.

Taylor’s Grand Performance Era

2005-Present

Guitars produced since 2005 integrate advanced manufacturing techniques, enhancing tone and playability significantly. Designs adapt to modern player preferences.

Best value if the model matches your style.

Dating Taylor Instruments by Serial Number

To date a Taylor instrument, locate the serial number on the back of the headstock. Taylor's serial numbers are formatted with a year followed by a unique identifier. For example, a serial number starting with 2001 indicates a model made in 2001. Use Taylor's online database or reach out to Taylor’s customer service for exact dating information.

Verifying Authenticity

  • Verify the presence of Taylor’s logo on the headstock; fakes often omit this key detail.
  • Inspect the back of the headstock for proper serial number alignment and authenticity.
  • Check the soundhole label for original factory specs, ensuring they match model details.
  • Look for signs of refinishing; original finishes often exhibit a degree of wear that counterfeit models do not.

Known Issues to Check

  • Watch for neck set issues; older models may have neck angles that require adjustment.
  • Check for pickups and electronics that don't work as expected; replacements can be costly.
  • Frets may sometimes wear unevenly on heavily played guitars. Inspect fret level and playability.
  • Bindings can separate from the body; this affects both aesthetics and structural integrity. Look for gaps or separations.

Buying Used Taylor

  • 1Taylor's NT (New Technology) neck joint makes neck resets easier and less expensive than traditional acoustics.
  • 2The 100 and 200 series use laminate back and sides — solid wood construction starts at the 300 series.
  • 3CE models include Taylor's Expression System electronics. Non-CE models are acoustic-only.

Taylor Instruments

Classical Guitars

Taylor Academy 12-N2016

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Used Taylor for Sale

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the average price for a used Taylor 814ce?

Prices generally range from $1,800 to $2,800, depending on condition and year.

Are older Taylors better than new ones?

Not necessarily. Older models can have unique characteristics but newer Taylors benefit from improved technology and consistency.

How do I know if a Taylor has been refinished?

Check the finish for inconsistencies and look for oversprays. Also, inspect the soundhole label for signs of tampering.

What should I look for in a used Taylor?

Focus on neck integrity, fret wear, and electronic functionality, especially if it has electronics installed.

Which Taylor models are the best investment?

Look for limited editions or the Builder's Edition models. They're typically in higher demand and hold value well.