Taylor 114ce Acoustic Guitar Instruction Manual

Introduction

The Taylor 114ce acoustic-electric guitar is designed to offer excellent playability and a rich, balanced tone. This instrument features a solid torrefied spruce top, which contributes to a clear midrange and enhanced projection. The unique roasting process of the spruce top provides a warm, aged sound. An internal bracing design further improves the guitar's response, volume, sustain, and low-end presence. The slim Taylor neck profile is engineered for comfortable fretting across various playing styles. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your Taylor 114ce guitar.

Key Features

• String Count: 6
• Hand Orientation: Right
• Body Style: Grand Auditorium
• Bracing: C-Class with Relief Rout
• Cutaway: Venetian
• Top Material: Torrefied Spruce
• Rosette Design: White Plastic 3 Ring
• Back Construction: Layered, 2-Piece
• Body Trim: Black
• Armrest: None
• Top Finish: Matte
• Back/Side Finish: Matte
• Neck Material: Hard Rock Maple
• Fretboard Material: West African Crelicam Ebony
• Neck Profile: Standard Carve

Setup

Upon receiving your Taylor 114ce, perform an initial inspection to ensure all components are intact. The guitar comes with D'Addario XS Coated Phosphor Bronze Light strings (.012 - .053) and a pre-installed pickup system. Before playing, ensure the guitar is properly tuned.

Front view of the Taylor 114ce Acoustic Guitar, showcasing its Grand Auditorium body shape, Venetian cutaway, and torrefied spruce top.

Back view of the Taylor 114ce Acoustic Guitar, highlighting the layered sapele back and the matte finish.

Tuning

Use a reliable electronic tuner to tune your guitar. Standard tuning is E-A-D-G-B-e (from thickest to thinnest string). Gently stretch new strings after initial tuning to help them settle and improve tuning stability.

Electronics

The guitar is equipped with a pre-installed pickup system. This system requires one 9V battery for operation. The battery compartment is typically located near the endpin jack or inside the soundhole. Ensure a fresh battery is installed for optimal amplified sound. The output connector is a standard 1/4" phone plug.

Close-up view of the Taylor 114ce headstock, showing the tuning machines and the Taylor logo.

Detailed view of the Taylor 114ce soundhole, featuring the white plastic 3-ring rosette design.

Operation

The Taylor 114ce is designed for both acoustic and amplified performance. Its Grand Auditorium body shape offers a versatile sound suitable for various musical genres and playing styles, from fingerstyle to strumming.

Playing Acoustically

The torrefied spruce top and C-Class bracing contribute to a resonant and balanced acoustic tone. Experiment with different picking and strumming techniques to explore the guitar's full dynamic range.

Using the Pickup System

To amplify your guitar, connect a standard 1/4" instrument cable from the guitar's endpin jack to an acoustic amplifier or PA system. Adjust the volume and tone controls on your amplifier or mixing board to achieve your desired sound. Ensure the 9V battery in the guitar's electronics is charged for optimal performance.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance will preserve the playability and longevity of your Taylor 114ce guitar.

Cleaning

Wipe down the guitar body, neck, and strings with a soft, lint-free cloth after each use to remove sweat and oils. For a deeper clean, use guitar-specific cleaning products sparingly. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.

Humidity Control

Acoustic guitars are sensitive to changes in humidity. Maintain your guitar in an environment with relative humidity between 45% and 55%. Use a guitar humidifier in dry climates and a dehumidifier in excessively humid conditions. Store the guitar in its gig bag or a hardshell case when not in use to help regulate its environment.

The Taylor 114ce Acoustic Guitar resting inside its protective gig bag, illustrating proper storage.

String Changes

Change strings regularly, typically every 1-3 months depending on playing frequency, or when they sound dull or show signs of corrosion. Use D'Addario XS Coated Phosphor Bronze Light strings (.012 - .053) or a similar gauge and material to maintain the guitar's intended tone and tension. When changing strings, replace them one at a time to maintain neck tension.

Troubleshooting

• Guitar will not stay in tune: New strings require stretching. Ensure strings are properly wound around tuning posts. Check for loose tuning machine components. Extreme temperature or humidity changes can affect tuning stability.
• No sound when amplified: Check if the 9V battery in the pickup system is dead or incorrectly installed. Ensure the instrument cable is securely connected to both the guitar and the amplifier/PA system. Verify the amplifier is powered on and its volume is up.
• Buzzing or rattling sounds: Check for loose hardware (tuning machines, strap buttons). Ensure strings are not too low, causing fret buzz. Environmental changes can cause wood movement; consult a qualified guitar technician if persistent.
• Dull or lifeless tone: Old or corroded strings can significantly impact tone. Replace strings regularly. Ensure proper humidity levels are maintained, as a dry guitar can sound thin.

Specifications

What's Included

• Taylor 114ce Acoustic Guitar
• Set of D'Addario XS Coated Phosphor Bronze Light strings (.012 - .053) (pre-installed)
• Pre-installed pickup system

Warranty and Support

For specific warranty information, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official Taylor Guitars website. For technical support, service, or replacement parts, contact Taylor Guitars customer service directly. Retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.