Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $820

High-end/Boutique

$200

$601+

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Description

The Taylor DN3 Dreadnought acoustic guitar stands as a testament to Taylor’s dedication to blending tradition with modern craftsmanship. Crafted with a solid Sitka spruce top and sapele back and sides, the DN3 delivers a vibrant and balanced sound that resonates with both clarity and warmth. Its dreadnought body shape is not only a nod to classic acoustic guitar design but also a guarantee of robust projection, making it ideal for everything from gentle fingerpicking to vigorous strumming.

This guitar's meticulous construction is evident in its details. The satin finish on the back and sides complements the gloss top, offering a visually striking contrast while enhancing durability. Adding to its allure, the DN3 features ivoroid binding and an abalone rosette, showcasing Taylor’s attention to aesthetic detail. The chrome-plated Taylor tuners ensure precise tuning stability, while the 1 3/4" nut width and 25 1/2" scale length provide comfortable playability for musicians of all skill levels.

Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a passionate beginner, the Taylor DN3 Dreadnought is a versatile companion for any musical journey. Its ability to deliver rich, full-bodied sound across a range of genres makes it a cherished choice among guitar enthusiasts.

Key Features:

  • Solid Sitka spruce top
  • Sapele back and sides
  • Gloss top with satin back and sides
  • 1 3/4" nut width
  • 25 1/2" scale length
  • Ivoroid binding
  • Abalone rosette
  • Chrome-plated Taylor tuners
  • Includes hard case

Product specs

Brand Taylor
Model DN3
Finish Natural
Year 2006 - 2012
Made In United States
Categories Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Sapele
Body Shape Dreadnought
Color Family Natural, Tan
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony
Model Family Taylor DN
Model Sub-Family Taylor DN3
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Taylor Acoustic Series
Sides Material Sapele
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the back and sides of the Taylor DN3 Dreadnought?

The Taylor DN3 Dreadnought features back and sides made of Sapele wood, which contributes to its warm and balanced tone.

Is the Taylor DN3 Dreadnought suitable for fingerstyle playing?

With its dreadnought body shape and 1-3/4" nut width, the Taylor DN3 is versatile for both strumming and fingerstyle, offering a rich sound with excellent projection.

Does the Taylor DN3 Dreadnought come with any electronics?

The Taylor DN3 Dreadnought does not come with built-in electronics, making it a purely acoustic guitar ideal for traditional playing.

What kind of strings does the Taylor DN3 Dreadnought use?

The Taylor DN3 Dreadnought is equipped with Elixir® Medium Gauge Strings with NANOWEB® Coating, known for their long-lasting tone and smooth feel.

How would you describe the tonal characteristics of the Taylor DN3 Dreadnought?

The Taylor DN3 offers a balanced and full-bodied sound with a strong midrange, thanks to its Sitka spruce top and Sapele back and sides, making it suitable for a variety of musical styles.

What is the scale length of the Taylor DN3 Dreadnought?

The Taylor DN3 Dreadnought has a scale length of 25-1/2 inches, providing a comfortable playing experience with enhanced tonal clarity and sustain.

jeffallenfrance

jeffallenfrance

Guitar Review: Taylor DN3

Video thumbnail for Guitar Review: Taylor DN3 by jeffallenfrance

Guitar Review: Taylor DN3

jeffallenfrance

jeffallenfrance

Video thumbnail for Taylor DN3 - The Rain Song by Zach Wish

Taylor DN3 - The Rain Song

Zach Wish

Zach Wish

Video thumbnail for Taylor DN3 by Tman4000

Taylor DN3

Tman4000

Tman4000

Video thumbnail for Taylor DN3 by Thestratshack

Taylor DN3

Thestratshack

Thestratshack

Video thumbnail for Taylor DN3 by Bernunzio Uptown Music

Taylor DN3

Bernunzio Uptown Music

Bernunzio Uptown Music

Video thumbnail for My acoustic guitar. The Taylor DN3. by Stuff Steve Likes

My acoustic guitar. The Taylor DN3.

Stuff Steve Likes

Stuff Steve Likes

Video thumbnail for Taylor DN3 指弾き by Heavy Gauge Guitars

Taylor DN3 指弾き

Heavy Gauge Guitars

Heavy Gauge Guitars

Video thumbnail for Quick Demo of the Taylor DN3 by frets99

Quick Demo of the Taylor DN3

frets99

frets99

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent playability and projection with all solid wood construction

  • Smooth mahogany neck, ideal for flatpicking and easy neck movement

  • Dynamic sound range from soft fingertip to bright fingernail tones

  • Comparable sound quality to higher-end models at a lower price

  • Great for open tuning specialists, offering bold, dynamic sound

  • Warm bass and clear highs, creating an orchestral effect

  • Easy fretting action with comfortable string spacing

  • Durable American-made quality at an affordable price, especially second-hand

  • Versatile for various music styles, from fingerpicking to flatpicking

CONS

  • No built-in electronics, though installation is possible

  • Limited production, making it harder to find

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Taylor DN3 Dreadnought.

Comparisons

  • The DN3 is most similar to the Taylor 310 or 317 models, but without a pickguard and different inlays.

    Source
  • Owners find the DN3 offers a middle ground between Martin and Taylor tones, appealing to those who enjoy aspects of both brands.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The DN3 excels in flat picking and strumming with significant headroom, but is less suited for fingerstyle.

    Source
  • Owners highlight testing with fresh strings before purchase to fully assess tonal quality and personal resonance.

    Source
  • Despite acquiring a D-18, some players retain the DN3 for its convenience and accessibility in quick practice sessions.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners describe the DN3 as having an "insane headroom," meaning it can handle aggressive strumming without distortion.

    Source
  • Owners have successfully used promo codes for discounts when purchasing from specific retailers, highlighting the potential for cost savings.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The DN3 has been discontinued, adding to its potential value over time, with one owner recalling a new price of about $1,500 without tax or case.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • DN3 typically uses .13 string sets, but switching to .12s can improve playability for lighter pick attack.

    Source
  • Ensure frets are examined by loosening strings to check for wear, as Taylor frets might show wear under tension.

    Source
  • The guitar handles both medium and light strings well, with a suggestion to try light-mediums for added bass on lower strings.

    Source

Build quality

  • Checking for the original Taylor Hard Shell Case is crucial, as it adds to the instrument's value and protection.

    Source
  • Bearclaw marks are noted on some models, indicating unique wood patterns that add character but are not factory-standard features.

    Source

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Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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