Taylor 2009 Custom Shop Sinker Redwood Top/ Macassar Ebony sides and back, Custom GC

I first saw this guitar at a Roadshow in 2009. It was among a group of 6-8 Custom Shop guitars . This guitar was absolutely beautiful and striking in every detail, as were most of the guitars. I got to sit down and play any model I wished to play. The room was filled with many well heeled and , for the most part, well trained players from the area. It was a great way to audition some wonderful guitars. I was playing different songs with each model. I was playing some Black Crowes and Tom Petty on this guitar and was sold! Unfortunately, I was a little late in picking the guitar I wanted to negotiate a price with. Another member of the party had committed to the guitar (along with another guitar). But as fate would have it, Taylor called the next day to tell me that the gentleman had decided on only a single instrument. Perhaps the prices had some effect on his decision. I can only say that I negotiated a fair discount from the $8200.00 MSRP with a Taylor factory sales rep and purchased the guitar. I have played the guitar primarily in my studio. I have only gigged the guitar a dozen times or so. I have been hesitant to take the guitar out at bar and party gigs. It is time for me to pass this fantastic instrument on to the next shepard. I used the guitar on a lot of songs using open E or G tunings. The guitar has an almost ethereal sound when playing these tunings (though it sings in any tuning). Needless to say, it sounds great with a glass slide. Fingerstyle picking is another particularly great way to bring out rich sound of the guitar. I must say I avoided heavy strumming to protect the guitar, which does not have a pick guard. Clear guards are available , but I never went there. Another great feature on this guitar is in the choice of tuners. Fantastic! High ratio gold state of the art. Rock solid. The guitar received as much attention for its wonderful sound as much as for its striking appearance. Definitely a show stopper without it being over the top flowery. Just first class. I am now in my mid 60's and do not collect guitars. I gig less often and really need an everyday guitar since my trusty old Gibson B25 has developed too many issues. This is an incredible instrument from a very early run of the book matched ebony, making it stand out even in the presence of other like models. This is a rare model that will undoubtedly be a great investment , as well as an amazing sounding and looking instrument. I will miss this guitar!! It is difficult parting with it. The guitar and case are in excellent condition.