When it comes to acoustic guitars, two popular models that often come up in discussions are the Yamaha FG800 and the Taylor 814ce. Both instruments are highly regarded for their sound quality, playability, and overall value, but they cater to different needs and preferences. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, tone, and characteristics of each guitar to help you decide which one is right for you.

Body Shape and Size

The Yamaha FG800 is a full-size dreadnought acoustic guitar with a traditional body shape, measuring 20 inches in length and 16 inches in width. This larger body size produces a robust and powerful sound, making it suitable for strumming and flatpicking.

In contrast, the Taylor 814ce is a grand auditorium acoustic-electric guitar with a slightly smaller body size, measuring 20 inches in length and 15.5 inches in width. The grand auditorium shape provides a balanced sound with excellent midrange clarity, making it ideal for fingerstyle playing and singer-songwriters.

Tone Woods

The Yamaha FG800 features a solid spruce top, which is known for its clear and balanced tone, paired with mahogany back and sides. This combination produces a warm, rich sound with good sustain and a strong low-end response.

The Taylor 814ce, on the other hand, boasts a solid Sitka spruce top, paired with Indian rosewood back and sides. The Sitka spruce top adds a touch of brightness and clarity to the tone, while the Indian rosewood provides a rich, complex sound with excellent depth and projection.

Electronics

The Taylor 814ce is an acoustic-electric guitar, featuring Taylor's proprietary Expression System 2 (ES2) pickup system. This system uses a combination of magnetic and piezoelectric pickups to capture the guitar's natural tone, providing a clear and accurate representation of the instrument's sound when amplified.

In contrast, the Yamaha FG800 is a purely acoustic guitar, without any onboard electronics. While this may be a drawback for some players who need to amplify their sound, it also means that the FG800 is a more affordable option for those who don't require electronic capabilities.

Playability

Both guitars are known for their excellent playability, with comfortable necks and smooth fretboards. The Yamaha FG800 has a 25.5-inch scale length and a 1.69-inch nut width, making it suitable for players with larger hands or those who prefer a more traditional feel.

The Taylor 814ce has a slightly shorter scale length of 25.4 inches and a narrower nut width of 1.67 inches, which may appeal to players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more modern, fast-playing neck.

Price

One of the most significant differences between these two guitars is their price point. The Yamaha FG800 is generally priced around $200-$300, making it an excellent entry-level option for beginners or intermediate players on a budget.

The Taylor 814ce, on the other hand, is a premium instrument with a price tag to match, typically ranging from $2,000 to $3,000. While this may be out of reach for some players, the 814ce offers exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and tone that justifies its higher price point.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to acoustic guitars, both the Yamaha FG800 and the Taylor 814ce are excellent choices, but they cater to different needs and preferences. The Yamaha FG800 is a great option for beginners or intermediate players who want a traditional, full-size dreadnought sound without breaking the bank.

The Taylor 814ce, on the other hand, is a premium instrument that offers exceptional tone, playability, and craftsmanship, making it suitable for professional musicians, singer-songwriters, and those who demand the best. Ultimately, the choice between these two guitars will depend on your individual needs, budget, and playing style.