Layered Copafera
This dark-hued wood adds a rich complexion to select 200 Deluxe models.
Granadillo
Sonically comparable to rosewood, granadillo’s higher density yields a clear, ringing tone.
Sound
Back and side woods add unique flavors to a guitar’s tone. Some add warmth and low-end richness; others bring midrange power or treble-range clarity.
Look
Body woods help a guitar look great, too. Some woods sport chocolatey brown hues, while others feature elaborate grain patterns and striking blonde coloration.
Solid Woods vs. Layered Woods
One distinction between the woods we use for the back and sides is whether the wood components are solid or layered. Solid woods produce the most complex tone and tend to contribute slightly more distinctive sonic flavoring based on the species used. Layered woods — a middle core of wood with a veneer on either side — allow us to use our resources efficiently and showcase beautiful outer veneers to elevate a guitar’s aesthetic.
Solid Back and Side Woods
Solid tonewoods produce the most sophisticated, nuanced sound and improve with age.
Indian Rosewood
Renowned for its deep low end, clear, strong treble range and rich overtone character, Indian rosewood serves up lush, high-fidelity acoustic sparkle along with beautiful, chocolate-brown hues.
Hawaiian Koa
With its gorgeous visual colors and striking grain, koa is beloved as much for its looks as for its vibrant, midrange-forward sound. It’s also famous for growing sweeter and more complex as the wood ages.
Maple
This highly player-reflective wood channels each player’s unique touch. Sometimes thought of as a “bright” tonewood with an emphasis on the treble range, our maple is voiced for greater low-end warmth and power.
Honduran Rosewood
Extremely dense compared to other rosewood species, Honduran rosewood sings with a uniquely smooth voice that makes it worthy of our finest guitars.
Mahogany
Mahogany is known for its meaty midrange character, featuring a strong fundamental focus often described as “punchy,” “woody,” or “dry,” because it doesn’t produce a lot of ringing overtones. Mahogany’s earthy voice has been featured on many roots music recordings over the years.
Sapele
Sapele’s tonal output is consistent and balanced across the tonal spectrum, making it compatible with a diverse range of playing styles. It’s comparable to mahogany but its higher density tends to produce a slightly brighter sound with more top-end shimmer.
Urban Ash
Sourced from city trees in need of removal, Urban Ash produces midrange power and balance comparable to Honduran mahogany.
Urban Ironbark
This hardwood yields a sweet, yet muscular sound with an alluring blend of power, clarity and balance.
Walnut
Like koa, walnut’s density and stiffness yield bright treble notes, but with a more present midrange that splits the difference between rosewood and mahogany. The bass tones initially produce a woody character that will grow richer with time and extended play.
Layered Back and Side Woods
Our 3-ply layered-wood construction, used on our 200 Series and below, is strong and resilient. It also allows us to use attractive tonewood veneers that elevate the aesthetic appeal of guitars across our line.
Layered Rosewood
An Indian rosewood veneer and layered construction present a beautiful aesthetic in a durable, affordable package.
Layered Koa
Visually inspiring figured koa gives these layered koa guitars a rich, ultra-premium look, supported by signature Taylor playability and rich tone.
Layered Sapele
Layered wood construction is used to offer attractive, durable and affordable models.
Walnut
Featured on Academy and 100 Series models, layered walnut’s milk-chocolate hues and beautiful grain exude aesthetic warmth.
