Style 1
The Style 1 is the culmination of over thirty years of training, honing, and inspiration. Plenty of folks draw parallels between the Style 1 and the tone of a grand piano. The sound is full and rich with overtones, yet focused and precise. Style 1 features a lower bout dimension of 16 ¼” and is 4 7/16 " deep at the lower bout.
Style 1 Options:
Twelve String Style 1
The Style 1 12-string is a guitar we have been looking forward to for quite some time. Built with a modified X bracing pattern and a 65-foot radius top geometry, this outstanding instrument can be personalized in many of the same ways as a Style 1 6-string, with the additional option of being set up specifically for non-standard tunings. Many 12-string players love the power of tuning the entire guitar down a whole step or even lower. Just let us know what your 12-string desires are, and we can most likely accommodate you.
Top Bracing Options
As musicians, we all hear and perceive things in our own way, and we all have our own muse. Finding your own musical signature can be a lifelong quest. In the interest of keeping the quest a tuneful (toneful?) and inspirational journey, R. Taylor offers a selection of bracing patterns and top geometries. A good starting point would be to decide on the type of wood used for the guitar’s top, back and sides; and then take into consideration how the bracing and top geometry can enhance the guitar’s voice to suit your needs, and to best respond to your playing style.
Give us a call at 502-491-2337 and we can discuss this in depth!
Modified X Bracing
A modern take on a time-proven bracing pattern. Without sacrificing clarity, this configuration favors the low midrange and bass spectrum of the guitar’s timbre, while slightly attenuating the upper midrange. The highs are fully intact and transparent, and the dynamic response to a light-to-medium playing style is superb.
Asymmetrical X Bracing
Asymmetrical bracing has many proponents, and with good reason. The R. Taylor asymmetrical pattern design is the result of decades of research and practical application. The sonic signature leans towards tight midrange, which our ears perceive as a punchy guitar with very quick response and immediate acoustic projection. Guitars with this bracing pattern position themselves very well in an ensemble setting, with excellent clarity throughout the guitar’s entire range.
Flat Top Geometry
If your taste leans toward the great sound of a “played-in” vintage guitar, consider this top geometry. Imparting a very musical, linear and open sound with good sustain and warm harmonic response, guitars with this top configuration have a slightly “looser” feel that is the result of the top being under less compression, and able to vibrate freely at lower dynamic levels. Warm, round, and balanced; a fine choice for those whose playing style reflects detail and nuance with a musical “cushion” around each note.
65’ Radius Top Geometry
Our other offering for your guitar’s top is a subtle radius that yields a distinct result. Imparting a naturally compressed character to the guitar’s voice, this top configuration is especially effective for players who seek wide dynamic response, and who may have an aggressive style. Very punchy, with clear response at any volume.
Style 2
Style 2 is a direct descendant of Style 1, sharing many of the same features and options. With Style 2, the R. Taylor luthiers have redefined what the compact Grand Concert body size is capable of. The goal was to craft a smaller, lighter instrument that would yield nuance, balance, harmonic complexity and solid fundamental notes at almost any dynamic level.
After experimenting with body shape and dimension, bracing size and placement, scale lengths, bridge size, and peghead design, the Style 2 was born. The body measures 15 inches wide at the lower bout (Style 1 being 16 ¼ inches), and 4 3/16 inches deep at the lower bout (compared to 4 7/16 inches for Style 1).
While Style 2 will certainly appeal to fingerstyle players, guitarists of every ilk will find inspiration at their fingertips. The sound is signature R. Taylor: superb note definition over the entire fingerboard, exquisite sustain, and chords that bloom as a finely balanced palette of expression. Together these tonal traits translate the player’s intentions into what we all ultimately seek: musicality.
Available in short scale only (24 7/8 inches), with either a standard or slotted peghead, Style 2 is not only very comfortable to play, but is supremely responsive to any technique, from the most refined and delicate fingerstyle to robust flatpicking styles. Departing slightly from the Style 1 options, Style 2 features just one bracing pattern / top geometry: X bracing, with a 65-foot radius top. All of the R. Taylor nut widths and neck shapes are available on Style 2.
Style 2 Options:
Slotted Head Stock option
This is a popular feature that merges old-world design elements with state-of-the art functionality. The sleek slotted headstock is a perfect match for the Style 2.
General Options:
Wood Options
R. Taylor offers the very finest woods that Bob Taylor has seen over the last 30 years. Give us a call to talk wood choices.
Laskin-style armrest
Inspired by luthier Grit Laskin, the R. Taylor armrest is an original spin on a great comfort-inducing option for your R. Taylor guitar. Angled at 30 degrees, it is elegant, beautiful and functional. Available in Ebony (with Ebony binding) or Cocobolo (with Cocobolo binding).
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