Taylor Guitars 714ce Next Generation Natural Grand Auditorium

Next Generation Grand Auditorium: the evolution of an iconic Taylor format

The Taylor 714ce Next Generation is part of the new wave of "Next-Gen" Grand Auditoriums, where three key elements come together: the scalloped V-Class bracing, the Action Control Neck, and the Claria electronics. First introduced on very popular Grand Auditoriums, these evolutions strengthen the coherence of the lineup by providing more control, musicality, and reliability across a wider range of series. Inspired by a classic Bob Taylor build, this 714ce focuses on a warm, rich, and expressive voice, while maintaining the balance and versatility that have made the Grand Auditorium format renowned.

Who is this 714ce Next Generation for?

This electro-acoustic Grand Auditorium is aimed at intermediate to expert guitarists seeking a nuanced, responsive guitar capable of following a very expressive right hand. The cedar top highlights light attacks, fine dynamics, and singing phrasing: an ideal setting for fingerstyle, modern pop/folk, vocal accompaniment (singer-songwriter), and studio playing where an immediately "mix-ready" sound is desired.
But the 714ce is not limited to soft playing: its low end remains sufficiently present for musicians who like to "dig in" with a pick, providing a foundation that supports open chords and rhythmic playing. Live, the Claria electronics and accessible controls allow quick transitions from a round accompaniment sound to a more cut-through tone in the mix.

A warm, full, and precise sonic signature

The personality of this 714ce Next Generation starts with the wood combination: the Western Red Cedar top offers a softer attack, a natural compression feel, and immediate warmth, particularly flattering on arpeggios and subtly played chords. The Indian Rosewood back and sides complement this base with deep lows, beautiful harmonic complexity, and broad resonance, resulting in an instrument that is both enveloping and detailed.
The scalloped V-Class bracing enhances the overall balance: it aims for warmer lows, stronger projection, and a richer open-string resonance, while maintaining the clarity and intonation precision associated with the V-Class concept. The result: a Grand Auditorium that retains its natural versatility (balance between bass, mids, and treble), with a feeling of a larger, more lively response, as well as sustain that highlights held notes, chord inversions, and modern voicings.
In terms of comfort and consistency, the Action Control Neck adds a very practical dimension: string height adjustment becomes more direct and precise, useful for adapting the guitar to your style (light attack, stronger playing, alternate tunings). Its long-tenon joint increases the wood-to-wood coupling between neck and body, contributing to sustain, warmth, and resonance felt under the fingers.
Amplified, the 714ce relies on the Claria System: an improved under-saddle piezo pickup and a proprietary preamp designed to reduce the sometimes harsh character of traditional piezos. The rosette controls Volume, Mid-Contour, and Tone allow quick correction of attack, boosting or scooping presence in the mix, and adjusting brightness depending on the room, PA system, or style.

Technical specifications