Today, Taylor Guitars of El Cajon, California announced their latest design: the Grand Pacific. This new entry from luthier Andy Powers and the rest of the Taylor team combines the V-Class bracing pattern announced at NAMM 2018 and a deeper, rounded-shoulder body shape. According to Taylor, the new design "will surprise and delight many players—including those not typically drawn to the Taylor sound."
The shape and depth of this design is reminiscent of something like a Gibson J-45 or other "advanced jumbo" dreadnought models from the 1940s and '50s. While tapping into the rich legacy of these classic acoustics, the Grand Pacific also offers more modern tonal balance. Per Taylor, the V-class bracing system works to "eliminate the problematic low-end woofiness often associated with dreadnoughts. With the Grand Pacific, players will experience clear power in the low-end, which means a more musical, usable tone."
The line includes three main models, all of which are available with or without electronics. Prices range from $1,899 to $3,999 USD. Designated by a 7 at the end of the model name, the lineup includes the Builder's Edition 517 with mahogany back and sides and a torrefied Sitka spruce top, the Builder's Edition 717 with rosewood back and sides and a torrefied Sitka spruce top, and the 317, which uses sapele for its back and sides with a Sitka spruce top.
Compared to Taylor Grand Auditorium body style—Taylor's most popular design found in models like the 214ce and 814ce—the Grand Pacific models deliver a broader and rounder tone. This sits in contrast to the more focused and precise sonics usually associated with the "Taylor sound."
That means the Grand Pacific could shape up to be a go-to option for bluegrass and folk musicians who need to compliment string ensembles in the manner of a vintage dreadnought. If you're a flat-picker looking to experience the modern playability and reliability of a Taylor, this guitar might be an ideal solution.
Other design elements include a compound carve neck profile, a rolled fretboard edge, a new "curve wing" bridge shape, and chamfered body edges. The Builder's Edition guitars are available in both natural and wild honey burst tops and will ship with a ornate, tooled leather-style hardshell case.