Gear Review: Taylor 811e Acoustic-Electric Guitar with Garrett Moshier

Today, we delve into the world of acoustic craftsmanship with the Taylor 811e Acoustic-Electric Guitar*, a marvel in the realm of stringed instruments. Let’s explore the nuanced facets of this guitar, which stands as a testament to Taylor’s commitment to quality and player-focused design.

Sound Quality and Playability

The Taylor 811e doesn’t boast the loudest projection, yet it excels in delivering a balanced sound spectrum. Its strings, reminiscent of the revered Elixir brand, provide a delightful playing experience, complementing the guitar’s bright tonal character. This brightness likely stems from its Sitka spruce top with a gloss finish, a choice that not only affects the sound but also enhances the guitar’s aesthetic appeal.

Comfort is paramount with the 811e. The fretboard’s rolled edges prevent the discomfort typically caused by extended play, ensuring a seamless interaction between the player and the instrument. Although the neck might feel slightly resistant initially, regular play will smooth this, enhancing the guitar’s overall playability.

Build and Materials

Aesthetically, the 811e is a work of art. Its smaller Grand Theater body is ideal for a wide range of players, including those of average height, like our reviewer at 5’10”. The choice of woods is impeccable: Indian rosewood back and sides to temper the bright spruce top, and an ebony fretboard that’s both visually striking and sonically favorable.

Taylor GT 811e Acoustic-Electric Guitar Features

Comfortably sized acoustic-electric with eye-popping tonewoods
Grand Theater body shape feels comfortable and responsive
C-Class bracing facilitates a strong bass response while increasing sustain
Solid rosewood back and sides deliver a warm, musical sonic foundation
Sitka spruce top enhances note definition
Condensed 24-1/8-inch scale length softens string feel for agile performance
ES2 electronics produce an accurate plugged-in tone
Mahogany neck with standard carve sits securely in your hand

Electronics and Functionality

The Taylor Expression System electronics offer basic controls but lack midrange adjustment, which could be pivotal in achieving the perfect sound blend, especially in band settings or worship environments. This is a minor drawback that can be remedied with external EQ adjustments.

Durability and Maintenance

The guitar’s build quality, including its C-Class bracing, suggests a durability that will withstand the rigors of travel and performance. The attention to detail in the construction speaks to Taylor’s reputation for producing robust and reliable instruments.

Aesthetic and Practical Considerations

With its elegant design and visually pleasing aesthetics, the 811e is not just an instrument but a piece of art. The guitar’s smaller body and the thoughtful placement of its features make it an excellent choice for songwriters and performers alike, offering comfort without compromising on sound quality.

Value and Verdict

At a price point of around $3,500, the Taylor 811e is an investment in quality and performance. It’s particularly suitable for serious musicians who value sound balance, playability, and comfort. However, potential buyers should consider their specific needs, especially regarding the guitar’s body size and electronics, before making such a significant investment.

In conclusion, the Taylor 811e Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a finely crafted instrument that offers a blend of excellent sound quality, playability, and aesthetics. It stands as a beacon of Taylor’s dedication to quality, making it a worthy consideration for those seeking a premium acoustic guitar experience.

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Garrett Moshier

Originally from the gulf coast of Florida, Garrett Moshier is a guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, producer, and songwriter based in Nashville, Tennessee. While in Florida, Garrett began performing and leading worship at local churches and youth groups, eventually auditioning into and attending Belmont University’s Commercial Music program. There, he studied music and production, later landing spots in some of the university’s showcase series and playing shows in town as an artist. After his graduation in 2018, Garrett began performing as a guitarist and keyboardist with local pop and country artists before shifting focus into the Christian Contemporary genre in mid-2021. Currently touring in 2023 as guitarist with Jordan Feliz, Garrett has also shared the stage with dozens of artists including Cody Fry, Danny Gokey, Steven Curtis Chapman, Micah Tyler, and CAIN, while also knocking off bucket-list venues like the Ryman Auditorium, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, The Grand Ole Opry, and more. As a producer and engineer, Garrett was nominated for a Dove Award in 2022 for his work on CAIN’s EP “Wonderful”, and worked on Cody Fry’s 2021 Grammy-nominated cover of “Eleanor Rigby”, amongst other records. Garrett is excited for a fruitful 2023 and beyond, hoping to continue serving the artists he’s been blessed to work with.