Taylor Builder's Edition 914ce Prototype Next Generation w/case 5093

The Taylor Next Generation Builder’s Edition 914ce Prototype offers a rare opportunity to own an early version of one of Taylor’s flagship modern acoustic platforms. Prototype builds like this are produced during the development phase before a model reaches full production, giving players access to instruments directly tied to the evolution of the design itself.

In this case, the prototype appears extremely close to the final production version, making its significance less about major specification differences and more about its place within the developmental history of the platform. For collectors and longtime Taylor players, that alone places it in a different category than a standard production Builder’s Edition 914ce.

The Next Generation platform represents Taylor’s ongoing shift toward a warmer, more open, and more player-reflective tonal response while preserving the precision and consistency the company is known for. Built with Honduran rosewood back and sides and a torrefied Sitka spruce top, the guitar delivers exceptional harmonic depth, broad dynamic range, and a more relaxed, broken-in tonal character right out of the case.

The torrefied Sitka top softens the attack slightly while adding warmth and responsiveness, while the Honduran rosewood contributes rich overtone complexity, piano-like low end, and articulate trebles. Together, the combination creates a voice that feels expansive and detailed without becoming overly compressed or rigid.

As part of the Builder’s Edition line, the guitar also incorporates Taylor’s most player-focused ergonomic refinements. The beveled armrest, chamfered body edges, silent satin finish, and Curve Wing bridge all contribute to a smoother and more natural playing experience over long sessions.

Taylor’s scalloped V-Class bracing and Action Control Neck system further refine the platform, improving sustain, note separation, and long-term setup precision while maintaining excellent balance across the fretboard.

Highlights

• Prototype build offering a rare pre-production version of the Next Generation Builder’s Edition 914ce
• Honduran rosewood back and sides for exceptional depth and harmonic complexity
• Torrefied Sitka spruce top for warmth and a broken-in 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: Torrefied Sitka Spruce
• Back & Sides: Honduran Rosewood
• Bracing: Scalloped V-Class
• Finish: 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

• LR Baggs Element VTC

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.