Acoustic Guitar Review: Taylor 310ce

Like no other guitar brand name on the market, Taylor Guitars has achieved worldwide honor and reverence for their exquisite acoustic craftsmanship, instrument sustainability and unmatchable sound quality. As a proud owner of the Taylor 814ce acoustic/electric model, I can personally testify of Taylor's unique, unparalleled style. To read my review of the 814ce, click here: An Instrumental Review: The Taylor 814cw Acoustic/Electric Guitar.

Taylor's wide range of series and guitar styles led me to play and review my father's Taylor 310ce acoustic/electric model, a gift from our church body for Pastor Appreciation Day. Crafted in the true and traditional 6-string dreadnought shape, this model boasts several of Taylor's beautiful attributes, most notably the classic Venetian cutaway (also featured on the 814ce model), as well as custom, chrome-plated Taylor Tuning knobs.

The guitar is handcrafted from gorgeous Sapele wood (body back and sides), complimented by a one-of-a-kind ebony fretboard and bridge. The neck of the 310ce is composed of 100 percent Tropical American Mahogany, topped off by an Indian Rosewood headstock overlay.

According to Taylor Guitars official website, the body measurements of the 310ce model are as follows:

a. Width: 16 inches

b. Depth: 4 5/8 inches

c. Length: 20 inches

d. Total length: 41 inches

e. Fretboard radius: 15 inches

Upon purchase of the 310ce, as was the case with my father's, the guitar is likely to come outfitted with acoustic Elixer® Medium gauge, Nanoweb® coated strings. This is true of the vast majority of Taylor acoustic models. Speaking from personal experience, I highly recommend the Elixer brand strings, both for the sound quality and sustainability. The strings are designed to last longer and are less likely to wear out and rust under the pressures of sweat from the guitar player. The slight increase in cost compared to other string brand names is well worth it in the long run.

In terms of electronics, the 310ce is outfitted with Taylor's signature Expression System, a favorite attribute of many longtime Taylor acoustic/electric buyers and players. Upon its debut in 2003, this system allowed for an increased number of players to retain the desired acoustic tone through an amplification sound system, without the distortion and "fuzziness" that is often the case. The ES works by incorporating the use of unique Dynamic Body sensors placed in specific locations throughout the inner underbody of the guitar. These two sensors essentially capture the beautiful acoustic tones which resonate from the top of the body, the strings and the neck's vibrations. You can read more about the mechanical and electronic workings of the Taylor ES System at Taylor's official website: www.taylorguitars.com.

Additionally upon purchase, the 310ce will likely include a complimentary Taylor Hardshell case. I highly recommend a hardshell case for this and virtually any other model of high end acoustic guitar. A hardshell case will protect your instrument from potential damage, including accidental drops, nicks, bumps and heat damage. Each Taylor hardshell case will boast the gold Taylor logo.

Throughout their history, Taylor has remained a guitar company that has always strived for excellence and versatility with their instruments. The 310ce is no different. Upon request, this specific model can be customized to fit left-handed guitar players at no additional cost to the buyer. The guitar's truss rod is also adjustable. These options can be difficult to attain when shopping other guitar brands, particularly when trying to avoid the additional charge.

The Taylor 310ce official retail price is set at $2,098.00, although I suggest shopping your local Taylor retailers and dealers for a few weeks in order to compare prices and await possible sale opportunities.