Taylor Guitars 514ce Next Generation Natural Grand Auditorium

A 500 Series Grand Auditorium Adopting the "Next Generation" Platform

With the 514ce Next Generation, Taylor extends the "Next-Gen" innovations initially introduced on select Grand Auditorium models from the 300, 400, and 800 Series to the 500 Series. The goal is clear: preserve the Grand Auditorium's DNA (balance, versatility, comfort) while pushing acoustic response and playability further. This instrument unites three technical pillars: carved V-Class bracing, the Action Control Neck (patented neck with simplified action adjustment), and the Claria System for amplification. Aesthetically, the guitar also stands out with its new Meridian inlays and a refined finish designed for both stage and studio use.

Who Is the 514ce Next Generation Made For and What Styles Suit It?

This Grand Auditorium targets musicians seeking an expressive guitar that is responsive to touch and immediately "alive" under the fingers. The cedar top is especially appreciated by players with nuanced techniques: fingerstyle, arpeggios, vocal accompaniment, ballads, folk, pop, and all approaches where right-hand dynamics need to translate effortlessly. Paired with mahogany, it delivers a concentrated, woody tone ideal for a clear mix and precise rhythmic playing without muddiness in the bass.
Thanks to the Grand Auditorium format, the 514ce remains very versatile: it offers enough body for solid strumming, yet a definition that highlights details (harmonics, attacks, sustained notes). The Claria electronics also make it a natural choice for singer-songwriters, stage guitarists, and church/collective musicians who need a controllable amplified acoustic sound quickly, without relying on multiple pedals or external processing.

A Warm, Woody, and Precise Tone Carried by the Carved V-Class

The tonal signature of this model primarily rests on its wood combination: the Western Red Cedar top provides a softer attack and an immediate sense of warmth, with great sensitivity to touch variations. It favors an enveloping sound, particularly flattering on nuances and light attacks. The mahogany back and sides complement this foundation with solid, "punchy" mids, a direct response, and a rather dry and woody character, with a bass foundation that remains clear.
The carved (scalloped) V-Class bracing enhances the impression of a generous guitar without sacrificing precision: the design aims for warmer bass, stronger projection, and richer resonance (especially on open strings), while maintaining the clarity and tuning accuracy associated with V-Class. Practically, this translates into a more present sustain sensation, better chord hold, and projection that "cuts through" easily, useful both in solo playing and accompaniment.
For comfort and consistency, the Action Control Neck offers a practical advantage: its patented design allows for faster and more precise string height adjustments, ensuring optimal playability throughout seasons, string gauges, or playing preferences. The long-tenon joint also increases wood coupling between the neck and body, contributing to a more pronounced feeling of warmth, resonance, and sustain.
Finally, in amplification, the Claria System combines an improved under-saddle piezo with a preamp designed to reduce the sometimes harsh character of traditional piezos. The rosette-mounted controls for Volume, Mid-Contour, and Tone allow quick tonal adjustments: scoop or refocus the mids according to the mix, soften an overly bright attack, or increase presence for picking. A real asset for switching between different balances stress-free, with a coherent sound across various sound systems.

Technical specifications

Type	Electro-acoustic guitar	Adjustment	Quick, easy, and precise string height adjustment (per ACN design)
Format	Grand Auditorium	Assembly	Long-tenon joint for enhanced neck/body coupling
Top	Western Red Cedar	Inlays	Meridian (NEW)
Back and Sides	Mahogany	Tuners	Taylor nickel finish tuners
Bracing	Carved V-Class	System	Claria System Electronics
Binding	White	Pickup	Improved under-saddle piezo
Top Purfling	Black and white	Preamp	Proprietary preamp (reduces typical piezo harshness)
Rosette	Abalone	Controls	Volume, Mid-Contour, Tone (rosette-mounted controls)
Finish	Gloss	Series	500 Series
Color	Natural	Platform	Next Generation Grand Auditorium
Design	Action Control Neck (patented neck)