Product: Taylor Guitars 412-M
Price Paid: US $775 used
Submitted
12/30/2003
at
05:10pm
by
DW
Features
:
9
This all-mahogany version of Taylor's (then) entry level Grand Concert was built in very limited quantities in 1996. It features an all-satin finish that gives this guitar an understated but elegant look. Pinless bridge set up is clean looking but some folks think that string changes are a little tougher and require more care to protect the finish. Overall it's a clean-looking guitar with simple, straight forward appointments and quality components (tusq nut & saddle, ebony fretboard, Grover tuners to name a few).
Sound
:
9
The all-mahogany construction makes for an interesting tone. The bass notes are nice and warm while the mids and highs still sparkle in true Taylor fashion. I would have liked a tad more note seperation on the low end, but that's asking a lot from a Mahogany topped Grand Concert.
In case you're curious, this guitar does NOT sound like its Martin counterpart in the all-mahogany 15 series--there's a bit more substance to the mids and highs while the Martin has more of the growl on the bottom end...
This guitar just begs to play acoustic blues and it can hold up to moderate strumming without overdriving the top and has suprisingly good projection.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
Finish is perfect.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I bought this guitar in 2002 and it was still in mint condition despite being played regularly for 6 years. No issues at all.
Customer Support
:
10
Taylor customer service is legendary and my experience with them has been terrific.
Overall Rating
:
10
If you can find one of these rare birds and you're curious about an all-mahogany Taylor you won't be disappointed.
