Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .
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Reviews
Price
Average Price: $3,871
High-end/Boutique
$200
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Taylor 812ce-N Acoustic-Electric Guitar". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Taylor 812ce-N Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a masterclass in blending the warmth of nylon strings with the versatility of modern acoustic-electrics. Tailored for the discerning player, this guitar offers a Grand Concert body style that delivers both robust projection and an expressive upper register. Crafted with a solid Sitka spruce top and solid Indian rosewood back and sides, it produces a captivatingly rich sound, perfect for both fingerstyle aficionados and classical enthusiasts alike.
Designed with the steel-string player in mind, the 812ce-N features a radius fingerboard and a slightly narrower nut width for an easy transition to nylon strings. The mahogany neck and striped ebony fingerboard offer a smooth playing experience, while the Venetian cutaway provides effortless access to higher frets.
Onboard, the Taylor ES-N Expression System ensures that your plugged-in sound retains the guitar's natural warmth and complexity, making it equally at home on stage or in the studio. The guitar's elegant aesthetics are enhanced by flamed maple binding and an abalone rosette, reflecting Taylor's attention to detail and craftsmanship. Each 812ce-N comes with a deluxe hardshell case, ensuring your instrument is protected wherever your music takes you.
Key Features:
- Grand Concert body style with Venetian cutaway
- Solid Sitka spruce top and solid Indian rosewood back and sides
- Mahogany neck and striped ebony fingerboard
- Nut width: 47.60 mm (1 7/8")
- 17 frets with ebony bridge and TUSQ saddle
- Taylor ES-N Expression System for natural amplified sound
- Includes hardshell case
- Made in the USA
Product specs
| String Type | Nylon |
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Body Shape | Grand Concert |
| Body Style | Single Cutaway |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Finish | Gloss, 3.5 mil |
| Top Wood | Sitka Spruce |
| Back & Sides Wood | Indian Rosewood |
| Binding | Pale Maple |
| Neck Wood | Tropical Mahogany |
| Radius | 20" |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Mother-of-Pearl Element |
| Number of Frets | 17 |
| Scale Length | 25.5" |
| Tuning Machines | Taylor Slot Head Tuners |
| Bridge Material | Smoked Ebony |
| Nut/Saddle Material | Tusq Nut/Micarta Saddle |
| Nut Width | 1.875" |
| Electronics | Taylor Nylon Expression System |
| Strings | D'Addario Classical Extra Hard Tension |
| Case/Gig Bag | Hardshell Case |
| Body Length | 19.5" |
| Body Width | 15" |
| Body Depth | 4.375" |
FAQs
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What type of strings does the Taylor 812ce-N use?
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The Taylor 812ce-N uses nylon strings, specifically D'Addario Classical Extra Hard Tension strings, which are ideal for classical and fingerstyle playing.
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Is the Taylor 812ce-N suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Taylor 812ce-N is equipped with the Taylor Nylon Expression System, providing excellent amplified sound quality for live performances.
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What is the body shape of the Taylor 812ce-N?
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The Taylor 812ce-N features a Grand Concert body shape with a single cutaway, offering a comfortable playing experience and easy access to higher frets.
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What woods are used in the construction of the Taylor 812ce-N?
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The Taylor 812ce-N has a Sitka Spruce top and Indian Rosewood back and sides, providing a rich, balanced tone.
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Does the Taylor 812ce-N come with a case?
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Yes, the Taylor 812ce-N comes with a hardshell case for protection and easy transport.
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How many frets does the Taylor 812ce-N have?
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The Taylor 812ce-N has 17 frets, allowing for a wide range of notes and versatility in playing styles.
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What is the nut width of the Taylor 812ce-N, and why is it important?
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The nut width of the Taylor 812ce-N is 1.875 inches, which is slightly wider than standard, making it ideal for fingerstyle players who need more space between strings.
Reviews
PROS
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Excellent playability with a comfortable neck, suitable for acoustic or electric players
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Balanced, powerful sound with a rich lower end and clear mid-range
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High-quality construction with beautiful striations in the ebony fingerboard
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Versatile for various genres, from swing to jazz, with easy tonal adjustments
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Effective electronics, providing a clean signal and minimal feedback
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Impressive craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal, described as a "work of art"
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Offers great lower end and sparkling highs, providing a snappy tone
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Ideal for players seeking a crossover nylon guitar with electric capabilities
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Perfect fit for smaller players due to the Grand Concert 12-fret design
CONS
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Some issues with fingerboard finish, appearing blotchy or stained
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May not suit players with larger hands due to neck size
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Taylor 812ce-N Acoustic-Electric Guitar.
Features and functionality
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The 812ce-N from the 90s lacks modern volume and tone controls; typically, pickups were added aftermarket with minimal onboard adjustment options.
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Setup and maintenance
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A common issue with older Taylors is drying out, which can cause finish cracks; using humidipacks is highly recommended in dry climates.
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Comparisons
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90s models feature x bracing and bone nuts, while modern versions use v bracing and plastic components, affecting tonal preference.
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The 812ce's smaller body size offers a brighter tone compared to the larger 14 series, which provides more bass and volume, catering to different play style preferences.
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While comparing with the 700 series, it's noted that the 800 series, such as the 812ce-N, provides distinct tonal qualities due to different wood and size.
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User experience
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Owners of pre-Expression System models often install aftermarket pickups like LR Baggs, noting improved sound quality for gigging.
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Multiple owners praise the distinct wood pattern on each fretboard, emphasizing the unique visual appeal of individual guitars within the same model.
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Owners have noted that the guitar often does not require setup adjustments out of the box, contrary to other models that might need immediate attention.
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Value and pricing
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A recent purchase of a '97 model showed some wear but was valued at around $1800, indicating lasting demand and appreciation.
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Mods and upgrades
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For better gig performance, users recommend upgrading to LR Baggs pickups, which offer a mix of piezo and microphone elements for richer sound.
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Owners frequently seek out specific grain patterns in the ebony fretboard, indicating a high level of customization even among standard models.
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Build quality
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Owners highlight the unique marbled fretboard and rosewood armrest as standout features, contributing to both aesthetics and comfort.
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The Taylor 812ce-N's fretboard features natural wood stripes, which are praised for their aesthetic uniqueness and contribute to a personalized feel for each guitar.
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The Guitto Guitar Tripod Adjustable A-Frame Stand is mentioned as a preferred stand, suggesting it complements the guitar's build and stability.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Ben Howard uses this nylon stringed version of the 812 ce to play "Keep Your Head Up". You can see him playing it on Pure FM, although it is the left handed version.
Album Usage
The Taylor 812ce-N Acoustic-Electric Guitar has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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