The Taylor Gold Label 517e Blacktop introduces a distinctly different voice and feel within the Taylor lineup, leaning into a more vintage-inspired tonal character while maintaining modern playability. Built with a torrefied Sitka spruce top and solid mahogany back and sides, this model delivers a warm, open response with a strong fundamental, rounded low end, and a dry, woody midrange. The larger Super Auditorium body shape enhances projection and low-end presence, while the fanned V-Class bracing adds depth, sustain, and balance across the register. Finished in a bold Blacktop, this is a roots-forward acoustic that trades Taylor’s traditional high-fidelity sheen for a more broken-in, seasoned voice.

Highlights

• Torrefied Sitka spruce top with solid mahogany back and sides for a warm, dry, and vintage-inspired tonal profile
• Super Auditorium body shape for increased low-end presence and projection with balanced response
• Fanned V-Class bracing for improved sustain, tonal depth, and note separation
• Gold Label voicing designed for a more open, woody character compared to traditional Taylor models
• Blacktop finish for a bold, modern aesthetic paired with roots-focused tone

Specifications Body

• Body Shape: Super Auditorium
• Top Wood: Torrefied Sitka Spruce
• Back & Sides: Tropical Mahogany
• Bracing: Fanned V-Class Bracing
• Finish: Gloss Top (Blacktop), Satin Back & Sides
• Cutaway: Venetian

Neck

• Neck Material: Neo-Tropical Mahogany
• Neck Profile: Standard Carve
• Scale Length: 25 1/2"
• Fingerboard: West African Crelicam Ebony
• Nut Width: 1 3/4"
• Frets: 20

Hardware

• Bridge: West African Crelicam Ebony
• Tuners: Taylor Nickel
• Nut: Black Tusq
• Saddle: Micarta

Electronics

• Pickup System: LR Baggs Element VTC

Miscellaneous

• Strings: Phosphor Bronze Light (.012–.053)
• Case: Taylor Deluxe Hardshell Case

Why Buy from Tone Shop Guitars?

At Tone Shop Guitars, we don’t just stock guitars—we curate them. Every instrument we bring in is selected to meet our standards for tone, feel, and overall quality. Whether you’re shopping in-store or online, our team is here to help you find the right guitar for your playing style, goals, and budget. From expert guidance to careful inspection before it ships, we work hard to make sure your next guitar is one you’ll be excited to play for years to come.