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Description
The Taylor 856CE 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a masterclass in craftsmanship and sonic excellence. This stunning instrument combines the lush, resonant qualities of a 12-string guitar with the modern convenience of built-in electronics, making it a versatile companion for both stage and studio. The Grand Symphony body is meticulously crafted from a solid Sitka spruce top and Indian rosewood back and sides, offering a rich, full-bodied sound with impressive projection and clarity. The Tropical mahogany neck and ebony fingerboard ensure smooth playability, while the elegant Venetian cutaway allows for easy access to higher frets.
Taylor's innovative Expression System 2 electronics capture the guitar's natural acoustic voice with remarkable fidelity. The unique pickup arrangement, positioned behind the saddle, ensures a dynamic range that responds beautifully to your touch, whether you're strumming or fingerpicking. This cutting-edge system provides a more natural sound, enhancing your performance whether you're plugged into an amp or a PA system.
The 856CE also boasts advanced bracing patterns, which have been thoughtfully redesigned to maximize tonal response and sustain. This attention to detail results in a guitar that delivers exceptional balance across the tonal spectrum, with powerful lows, crisp highs, and an open midrange. Whether you're a solo performer or part of a band, this guitar's resonant voice will stand out, making it a favorite among discerning musicians.
Key Features:
- Grand Symphony body style for enhanced projection and expressive tone
- Solid Sitka spruce top and Indian rosewood back and sides
- Venetian cutaway for upper fret access
- Taylor Expression System 2 electronics for natural-sounding amplified tone
- Advanced bracing for improved sustain and tonal balance
- Tropical mahogany neck with ebony fingerboard
- Includes a hardshell case for protection and transport
Product specs
| Brand | Taylor |
| Model | 856ce with ES2 Electronics |
| Finish | Natural, Vintage Sunburst |
| Year | 2013 - 2017 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Acoustic-Electric Guitars, OM and Auditorium Acoustic Guitars |
| Active Preamp | Yes |
| Back Material | Rosewood |
| Body Shape | Grand Symphony |
| Color Family | Brown, Natural, Tan |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Ebony |
| Model Family | Taylor 856 |
| Model Sub-Family | Taylor 856ce |
| Neck Material | Mahogany |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Number of Strings | 12-String |
| Offset Body | Non-Offset Body |
| Pickup | Internal Piezo Pickup |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Series | Taylor 800 Series |
| Sides Material | Rosewood |
| String Type | Steel |
| Top Material | Spruce |
| Wood Top Style | Plain |
FAQs
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What type of wood is used in the Taylor 856CE 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar, and how does it affect the sound?
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The Taylor 856CE features a spruce top and rosewood back and sides. This combination provides a bright, articulate tone with rich overtones, making it ideal for full-bodied strumming and complex chord voicings.
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Is the Taylor 856CE suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Taylor 856CE is equipped with Taylor's ES2 electronics, offering a natural amplified sound suitable for live performances, ensuring clarity and balance across all strings.
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What is the body shape of the Taylor 856CE, and how does it influence playability?
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The Taylor 856CE has a Grand Symphony body shape, which provides a rich, powerful sound with excellent projection, making it suitable for both strumming and fingerstyle playing.
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How does the neck profile of the Taylor 856CE affect playability?
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The Taylor 856CE features a mahogany neck with an ebony fretboard, providing a smooth playing experience with easy access to higher frets, ideal for both beginners and experienced players.
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Can the Taylor 856CE handle different musical genres?
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Yes, the Taylor 856CE's versatile tone and robust projection make it suitable for a wide range of genres, from folk and rock to blues and country, especially excelling in genres that benefit from a rich, full sound.
Videos
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Taylor 856ce 12-String Acoustic Guitar
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Taylor 856CE 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar.
Comparisons
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Taylors set up with Elixir strings offer a significant tonal difference compared to Martin strings, which some users find less appealing.
Source
User experience
Build quality
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The bolt-on neck design of Taylors, including the 856CE, is lauded for easy playability without compromising tone.
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Setup and maintenance
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Attention to humidity with products like D’Addario Humidipak is crucial in maintaining the guitar’s condition.
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Artist usage
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