This is a Taylor SB-1 X. I was always curious about these, they just don´t show up often, at least not reasonably priced.
Of course, the guitar is extremely well built, everything works, no sharp frets etc.. It plays very well, the neck is pretty much medium everything. Action is already low but I´m sure it could get lower without any buzz issues.
It sounds, let´s say different. I still have to figure out what exactly positions 2 and 4 do with the 5 position pick up switch and which tone I like most. I guess it won´t do high gain heavy metal, but I didn´t expect it to. Bluesy crunchy tones through a Fender Hot Rod de Ville sound very nice, bridge pick up not too high and chimey, neck pick up stays well defined, certainly not muddy.
Fun little coincidence, just saw a preview of the Amy Winehouse movie and there´s a scene with her in the studio and a Taylor just like mine in the guitar stand.
Wer nicht für Freiheit sterben kann, der ist der Kette wert.
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My band, Red For Dissent
Interesting in how guitar manufactures often struggle to compete in a market place they never started off in - I recall at the time when Taylor launched the electric/solid body range, that they intended to be #3, behind Gibson and Fender within X years - My point is that Gibson have succeeded with electrics and acoustics, but just about devoid of any sales in the bass market - Fender have succeeded with guitar plus bass, and almost nothing with regards to acoustic - Martin flopped when they decided to go into the electric market - Ditto Ovation - Ditto Taylor - Sure there are other examples
You become a major player in one market segment, maybe two, but not all
Good news for potential buyers of Taylor solid body models is that they are more affordable as 'small demand' - That might well change when the next big superstar/hype plays a Taylor electric solid body and then the whole world wants want - Jack White style
Looking at the Taylor website, the only electrics showing now are the various hybrid models.
I have a definite appreciation of Taylors (4 currently) and you know you're going to get something that's quality and a little bit different to the mainstream.