Difference between a 2010 and 2017 Taylor 414ce

Steve92004 · #1 03-20-2018, 08:45 PM

I found a great deal on a 2010 Taylor 414ce, about a grand less than a new one
Is there a big difference between the years?
Thanks!

kcnbys · #2 03-20-2018, 10:19 PM

The main differences between a 2010 and 2017 414ce are the bracing pattern, and pickup system. The 2010 has a bracing pattern Taylor used to use called "Standard II (Forward Shifted Pattern w/Relief Rout)". The 2017 has a newer bracing called "Performance Bracing (with Relief Rout)". The tonal difference in these two bracinging patterns will be relatively subtle, but it is a difference nonetheless. The other, more significant difference, (in my opinion) is that the 2017 will feature the newer ES2 pickup system, which is a better sounding pickup (IMO) than the ES1 version in the 2010. The ES1 pickup is not bad, I (and many others) just like the ES2 better. Unless you have occasion to use the pickup much, this would be of no concern. Neither of these two main differences would necessarily deter me from purchasing the 2010 if it's in good shape, sounds great, and the price is right.

SKYHIGH · #3 03-20-2018, 10:26 PM

It also has different Fingerboard inlay, different pickup, gloss finish vs satin. To me these are big difference.

Steve92004 · #4 03-21-2018, 08:40 AM

Thanks, I play plugged in the majority of the time

kcnbys · #5 03-21-2018, 10:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Steve92004

Thanks, I play plugged in the majority of the time

In that case, you'll probably prefer the 2017 with the ES2 pickup.

jazzguy · #6 03-21-2018, 10:41 AM

Definitely the 2017 with the ES2. Strongly advise not to get the 2010 with ES1.

Jasper64 · #7 03-21-2018, 12:56 PM

I've owned several older Taylors but I bought a 2017 418e RW. I love the EIR back and sides for it's subtle tone difference vs ovangkol and the ES 2 is much better imo

ii Cybershot ii · #8 03-21-2018, 01:03 PM

For me, the bracing pattern makes a huge difference. The Performance bracing in the 2017 has much deeper bass, is more responsive, and is louder. I actually prefer the Standard II in a lot of ways for strumming but if you're a finger-style player then in my eyes the Performance bracing is far superior.