The Taylor Next Generation Builder’s Edition 514ce Prototype offers a rare opportunity to own an early version of one of Taylor’s most refined modern acoustic platforms. Prototype builds like this are created during the development phase before a model reaches full production, giving players access to instruments directly connected to the evolution of the design itself.

In this case, the prototype appears extremely close to the final production model, making its significance less about major specification changes and more about its place within the developmental history of the platform. For collectors and longtime Taylor players, that connection alone makes it a different category of instrument than a standard production Builder’s Edition 514ce.

The Next Generation platform represents Taylor’s ongoing move toward a warmer, more open, and more player-reflective tonal response while preserving the clarity, consistency, and balance that define the brand. Built with Shamel ash back and sides and a Sitka spruce top, the guitar delivers strong articulation and note separation while introducing a fuller low end and a slightly more relaxed tonal character compared to earlier generations of Taylor acoustics.

Taylor specifically developed the Builder’s Edition line around comfort and long-session playability. Features like the beveled armrest, chamfered body edges, silent satin finish, and Curve Wing bridge all contribute to a smoother, more natural playing experience without feeling overly stylized or complicated.

Taylor’s scalloped V-Class bracing and Action Control Neck system further refine the platform, improving sustain, projection, note separation, and long-term setup precision while maintaining the versatility that makes the Grand Auditorium body shape such a widely used studio and stage platform.

Finished in Kona Burst, the guitar leans slightly more vintage-inspired visually while still retaining Taylor’s clean and modern design language.

Highlights

• Prototype build offering a rare pre-production version of the Next Generation Builder’s Edition 514ce
• Shamel ash back and sides for clarity, balance, and warmth
• Sitka spruce top with a more open and player-reflective tonal response
• Builder’s Edition ergonomic features for enhanced comfort and playability
• Scalloped V-Class bracing and Action Control Neck system

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

• Prototype Build
• 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, Custom Shop, and prototype acoustic we bring in is chosen for responsiveness, tonal balance, and individuality—not just specs on paper. When you buy from Tone Shop, you’re getting an instrument we genuinely believe in.