[vindibona1]

There are numerous threads about this already. And the short answer is: It depends.

MY PERSONAL TAKE...
In general I prefer the Xbraced models to the v braced. That doesn't mean that some of the V brace models don't sound good or even great. Taylor's new series, the Grand Pacific models all have V-bracing and are tearing up the guitar market right now and seem to be some of the most popularly acclaimed models currently in the Taylor line. You have to try guitars yourself, with the understanding that every instrument is unique unto itself. And while you may love on unit of a given model you may hate a different unit of the same exact model. It is my strong opinion that you have to audition every guitar that is on your purchase radar or you are rolling the dice.

The V brace design claims to have "better intonation" and sustain. In actuality, what it does is it makes the harmonics resonanting in the body more aligned with the intonation of the fundamentals and standard overtones generated by the strings. However, many of the V braced models do that at the expense of bass volume, which the clearer, brighter lower highs exacerbate the perceived loss of bass. This isn't necessarily so in all models. So again, it depends.


But one of my own personal experiences is what has confirmed my general bias toward the X braced models...
I had taken my Taylor 814ceDLX (X) to a local shop to see if I was interested in purchased a 90's vintage 910. I just didn't want to duplicate the sound I had with the 814. I ended up buying the 910. HOWEVER, as I stood there gabbing with the owner, I saw an 814ceDLX (V) hanging across the room. Here was the perfect chance to do a side-by-side comparison. So I played a few chords and licks on my guitar then picked up the V brace model. As I played the 814V I could see the owner's face grimace. In comparison the V braced model was bright and thin and comparatively unpleasant. Even without the side-by-side trial I wouldn't have selected that guitar as a potential purchase candidate. Could it be just that unit? I don't think so. I'd played a number of them in other stores (without my guitar for comparison) and was not taken with the V version of the 814ceDLX. Having said that, there were a few CE models that I liked in the V bracing. The 714ce was one of them. I can't remember the other models.

I'm sure there will be others who will offer different opinions. And the truth is that everyone's ears have a preference in what they want to hear in a guitar. So don't just take my word and opinion as fact. Go play and listen for yourself. Then decide.