The Taylor Next Generation Builder’s Edition 514ce represents a meaningful shift in how Taylor approaches both tone and feel—reworking a familiar platform with new materials, updated construction, and a more relaxed, organic response. Rather than chasing a completely different identity, this model refines what players already love about Taylor while pushing the sound in a warmer, more open direction.

At the core is a Sitka spruce top paired with Shamel ash back and sides. Shamel ash brings a unique tonal profile—clear and focused like maple, but with a bit more warmth and low-end presence. Combined with Sitka’s balanced response, the result is a guitar that feels articulate and responsive, but less tight or clinical than earlier Taylor voicings. It’s a noticeable shift toward a more natural, player-reflective sound.

As part of the Builder’s Edition line, this 514ce incorporates a full set of comfort-focused refinements. The beveled armrest, chamfered body edges, and silent satin finish all contribute to a smoother, more relaxed playing experience, especially over longer sessions. The Curve Wing bridge design and overall body contouring reinforce that “broken-in” feel without losing structural integrity.

The Next Generation platform also introduces Taylor’s updated internal design elements, including scalloped V-Class bracing and the Action Control Neck system. These changes improve sustain, note-to-note balance, and long-term setup precision, while still maintaining the versatility of the Grand Auditorium body shape.

Visually, the Kona Burst finish gives the guitar a warmer, more vintage-inspired look compared to Taylor’s typical aesthetic, pairing well with the understated, player-focused design of the Builder’s Edition series.

Highlights

• Sitka spruce top with Shamel ash back and sides for clarity and warmth
• Builder’s Edition ergonomic features for enhanced comfort and playability
• Scalloped V-Class bracing for improved sustain and balance
• Action Control Neck for precise setup and long-term adjustability
• Kona Burst finish with a more vintage-inspired aesthetic

Specifications

Body

• Body Shape: Grand Auditorium
• Top Wood: Sitka Spruce
• Back & Sides: Shamel Ash
• Bracing: Scalloped V-Class
• Finish: Kona Burst Silent Satin
• Venetian Cutaway
• Armrest Bevel
• Chamfered Body Edges

Neck

• Neck Construction: Action Control Neck
• Neck Material: Neo-Tropical Mahogany
• Fingerboard Material: West African Crelicam Ebony
• Scale Length: 25.5"
• Fingerboard Radius: 15"
• Nut Width: 1 3/4"
• Inlays: Compass

Hardware

• Bridge: Curve Wing Ebony Bridge
• Saddle: Micarta
• Nut: Black TUSQ
• Tuners: Taylor Nickel

Electronics

• Taylor Claria Acoustic Pickup System

Miscellaneous

• Included: Taylor Deluxe Hardshell Case
• Made in USA

Why Buy from Tone Shop Guitars?

At Tone Shop Guitars, we specialize in hand-selected premium acoustic instruments built for serious players who care about feel, resonance, and long-term inspiration. Every boutique and Custom Shop acoustic we bring in is chosen for responsiveness, tonal balance, and musicality—not just specs on paper. When you buy from Tone Shop, you’re getting an instrument we genuinely believe in.