I've played both instruments. I own one off them. They aren't so deferent as a matter of loudness. I think in this video review the main factor is the mic and it's placement. I personally prefer the 700 because it's just make you dig deeper. It's much more controllable when you play softly with your fingers and creates more mellow tone.
Hi Chris... Thanks for the video. I always enjoy watching. What a gorgeous looking guitar! It really sounded from the get go though that the levels were not the same when switching guitars (significantly higher on the 814ce as some have pointed out). Then I noticed the difference in the noise (preamp noise if I´m not mistaken). The mic placement is good on this one, though I was surprised at your mic choice since I´ve seen some comparisons using great condenser mics. Still, it´s a pleasure to watch your videos. Keep it up!
I’ve owned both these guitars in the versions played in the video and currently have the 714. A few key points to consider. First, the 814 does sound louder when first played but it does so at the sacrifice of dynamics. It’s like the guitar has one volume no matter how hard or soft you play. That’s not the case with the 714, which has a wide dynamic range. Second, the 814 is brighter but this can deceive your ears into thinking its clearer sounding and this isn’t true. The 714 has a better low end, a balanced tone and doesn’t get overly bright when played more aggressively like the 814 does. Lastly, the 814 has a different response when chords are played. Whereas the 714 blends all the strings within a chord, especially open chords, the 814 tends to emphasize the fretted strings. Both guitars have their strengths but the 714 is the better guitar for me. This video doesn’t really do the 714 justice. If you plan on buying online be sure to play them in person first. You might be surprised at how well the 714 sounds.
...OK - A minor quibble...when Taylor talks about 6 mil vs. 3.5 mil finish they do not measure in millimeters. A mil is a thousandth of an inch or 0.001" (about the thickness of a piece of paper) NOT millimeters. Otherwise a great vid - making the choice between these and the 614ce. Thanks!
Hi Chris .. always enjoy your playing. I have heard both guitars and the deferance between them is minor, to me at least. Still I think the deferance is a matter of preferance with the 714 sounding a litte melower but you can make it be very bright and lowed with a pick. Also the position of the mic was placed deferantly. In any case the two guitars are worth the money and they both have a great sound.
Adding to my comment I own both a 714 and an 814, i always take both when im on stage and ill change depending on the song or artist, for James Taylor songs i use the 814 and for Neil young ill use the 714 for deeper sound, not sure but i beleive Neil uses a Martin in most of his songs.
Thank you for this comparison. I have actually been trying to decide on these two exact guitars to buy. The 814ce does project more and has a little more high end ring to it. My wife says my present Taylor 110ce is a little ringy at times. But the 714ce is a little more mellow sounding which is kind of what I am looking for in my next Taylor. I guess if I want it louder I can just turn her up. I am also buying one of the new 562CE 12 fret 12 string for sure. Thank you again for the comparing of the two.
The 814ce is more effortless loader, the 714ce sounds fine but it's like you turned down the volume 3db. As you said when you dig in the 714ce comes out. I wonder what the bracing thickness is i.e. 1/4, 5/16 etc.
I think it has a lot to do with the Lutz Spruce. Taylor likens it to Adirondack and I have found that a lot of new adi tops are stiff and need to open up. They have immense headroom a bit it requires more energy to move them. Similar to cedar vs Sitka. Makes sense if you think about it. ;) - Chris McKee
Seemed to me the incidence on the player's playing is different too...As if the 714 made him more cautious, or as if he wanted (unconsciously?) to emphasize his sayings : quite obvious from 3rd chord of 1st "piece" in my mind... The 714 may be less powerful but not so much as iy seems.
Good video. For me the 814ce sounds better. My style is James Taylor esque so I don't 'dig in' and I guess the 814ce would be better suited. I've had 7, 3 and the new 6 series in the past as I don't like the look of white bindings but I may have to put up wth it for my next one. I was going to get an X braced 714ce natural but on the strength of this I don't think I will.
Great video Chris! I agree there doesn't seem to be a contest. I'd take the 814 any day and I'm a big fan of the 714. I wonder whether the difference will be as noticeable once they open up in a few years?
Unfortunately this is a poor comparison. The SM57 is a very directional mic, and if you are even slightly off axis (or further away) it will sound very diminished. This is what happened with the 700 series in this video. Look at where the mic is pointed in the video for the 714 versus the 814. For the 714, it was angled further away from the body, and that is why it sounds so quiet compared to the 814. This greatly changes the dynamics of the mic as well. You should really repeat this video using a decent diaphragm mic.
Nice video! Thank you. I'm looking at the 700 series guitars, and I must say they are very nice guitars. I like the way they have a softer more mellow sound, as it really shined when you finger-picked at the end of the video. The sound of a guitar is such a personal thing, they both sound great! I'm also looking at a Martin 00028 Eric Clapton currently. I'm having a rough time deciding if I should buy the Martin, or the Taylor 714ce... I know luxury problems!! I'm really leaning toward the Taylor, I own two nice Martins already, and do not have a Taylor. So Thanks for the info my friend! Best regards.
I wasn't. The 814ce isn't necessarily louder. It is more resonant. I think the 714ce has more potential volume but requires more energy to get there, if that makes sense. Over time as the lutz spruce opens up that probably won't be the case.
Jim A ... totally agree this is a bogus comparison. i've played them both and there is no volume difference like this. don't know who alamo thinks it's fooling.
Thanks Chris, good video. The 814 sounds noticeably louder, deeper. I got my 714 from you last year, online, when I got it, I noticed that my 110 sounded better, louder, much more resonant (dreadnought, no gloss finish). However, it's opened up alot since. BTW, it's out of the case 95% of the time. The Resonance, that I have been hoping for is coming in and sounding better each time I pick it up. It may not have been as loud in the beginning, BUT, how loud would the 814 be now and how controllable would it be? I am so happy with my 714ce, thanks again bro!
So glad to ear that it is opening up. The 714ce as the lutz pruce top which is similar in some ways to Adirondack which can be tight in the beginning but as it opens up it has more volume potential than sitka spruce does. There are bracing detaisl that will affect that too but keep in mind that the species of the top is going to affect the initial volume and tone. - Chris McKee
I do agree that my 714ce has 'Martinesque' sound. It was the sound I was looking for. It was a sound that I grew up liking, which is why I ordered the 714. Again, I am very satisfied and happy. Taylor is an undeniable quality!!! Rock on Chris! Mele Kalikimaka 🤙🤙🤙
I'd have to do the comparison in person. Not saying that you were trying to bias the review, but why is the 814 not plugged in and the 714 is? There is also a clear change in volume on the 814 at one point like someone was turning up the eq while you were playing. I find it hard to believe that the 714 is that much quieter as the video volume suggests.
Interesting? There’s no doubt that the sound has been manipulated to present the 814 as a louder guitar. However, this has been counter productive! Basically the 814 sounds sharply harsh and somewhat coarse rather than refined and resonant. I broke this recording down and listened to the guitars at a similar sound level. In my opinion the 714 has a more refined and balanced tonal voice. There is a convincing interaction and balance between the base, mids and top end thus projecting a more mellow sound. The fundamentals are nicely supported by the harmonic overtones and there’s no conflict as a result. However, the 814 does seem to project a slightly harsher overall tonal range. This presents a crisp tone but the harmony between the fundamentals and the overtones is not quite so balanced. Does this leaves it a degree flatter overall? IMO the 714 would be my guitar of choice in this comparison.
I noticed this immediately... I thought I had accidentally turned the volume up but it's clear the audio recording is much louder for the 814. Which seems oddly like it was purposely made to sound louder
The 814 has more low end and has more volume. The 714 sounds great, its mellow and warmer. I think the 814 sounds better, but the 714 might sound better with time.
Almost sounded as though the 814 had new strings and the 714 didn't...no comparison here really but I'm wondering how much of this was the actual recording difference since the mic wasn't placed ideal for the 714.
SOS please. I live in Phoenix Arizona. I play for church and am debating between these two guitars to play on sundays. I have a ton of problems with my current taylor 210ce because it feedbacks massive. I was told that the smaller 214 body would help. Also I saved up enough for an upgrade. which of these 2 guitars would you recomend for playing live at church?. thanks for all your videos you are extremely helpful man. God bless
Either one would be incredible upgrades from your 210ce. The 714ce has a darker, kinda chunkier sound. The 814ce acoustically is much more resonant and louder with a light touch. Give me a call and we can visit about your playing style and what works best. I have been a worship leader for 16 years and so I have some experience in traversing the waters of amplified acoustic, especially in that type of setting. You can reach me at 210-224-1010. Just ask for Chris. -Chris McKee
This video makes me laugh. The sound is soooo much lower. No fucking way in hell does that 714 project so low. That would be a total fail by Taylor, which I seriously doubt is the case.....more like user error.
I have the 714CE, and NO way is it THAT low ... and I pick on the thing all the time ... Matter of fact .... It ALMOST reminds me of the 814CE .... It has VERY nice low end and you can play it very quietly OR loudly ....
I've played both instruments. I own one off them. They aren't so deferent as a matter of loudness. I think in this video review the main factor is the mic and it's placement. I personally prefer the 700 because it's just make you dig deeper. It's much more controllable when you play softly with your fingers and creates more mellow tone.
Bingo ... my exact thoughts .... It's a very biased review, in my opinion .....
Got a 2008 model 714cs with cedar top and koa back and sides. Love it. Strings makes a big difference.
714 is my favourite Taylor guitar! That sound is so amazing. The 814 has a brighter sound and is still an amazing guitar nonetheless
Hi Chris... Thanks for the video. I always enjoy watching. What a gorgeous looking guitar! It really sounded from the get go though that the levels were not the same when switching guitars (significantly higher on the 814ce as some have pointed out). Then I noticed the difference in the noise (preamp noise if I´m not mistaken). The mic placement is good on this one, though I was surprised at your mic choice since I´ve seen some comparisons using great condenser mics. Still, it´s a pleasure to watch your videos. Keep it up!
I’ve owned both these guitars in the versions played in the video and currently have the 714. A few key points to consider. First, the 814 does sound louder when first played but it does so at the sacrifice of dynamics. It’s like the guitar has one volume no matter how hard or soft you play. That’s not the case with the 714, which has a wide dynamic range. Second, the 814 is brighter but this can deceive your ears into thinking its clearer sounding and this isn’t true. The 714 has a better low end, a balanced tone and doesn’t get overly bright when played more aggressively like the 814 does. Lastly, the 814 has a different response when chords are played. Whereas the 714 blends all the strings within a chord, especially open chords, the 814 tends to emphasize the fretted strings. Both guitars have their strengths but the 714 is the better guitar for me. This video doesn’t really do the 714 justice. If you plan on buying online be sure to play them in person first. You might be surprised at how well the 714 sounds.
...OK - A minor quibble...when Taylor talks about 6 mil vs. 3.5 mil finish they do not measure in millimeters. A mil is a thousandth of an inch or 0.001" (about the thickness of a piece of paper) NOT millimeters. Otherwise a great vid - making the choice between these and the 614ce. Thanks!
Hi Chris .. always enjoy your playing. I have heard both guitars and the deferance between them is minor, to me at least. Still I think the deferance is a matter of preferance with the 714 sounding a litte melower but you can make it be very bright and lowed with a pick. Also the position of the mic was placed deferantly. In any case the two guitars are worth the money and they both have a great sound.
Adding to my comment I own both a 714 and an 814, i always take both when im on stage and ill change depending on the song or artist, for James Taylor songs i use the 814 and for Neil young ill use the 714 for deeper sound, not sure but i beleive Neil uses a Martin in most of his songs.
Thank you for this comparison. I have actually been trying to decide on these two exact guitars to buy. The 814ce does project more and has a little more high end ring to it. My wife says my present Taylor 110ce is a little ringy at times. But the 714ce is a little more mellow sounding which is kind of what I am looking for in my next Taylor. I guess if I want it louder I can just turn her up. I am also buying one of the new 562CE 12 fret 12 string for sure. Thank you again for the comparing of the two.
Appreciate the video.. Great playing as well. Love the changes Taylor has made to the 714ce.
The 814ce is more effortless loader, the 714ce sounds fine but it's like you turned down the volume 3db. As you said when you dig in the 714ce comes out. I wonder what the bracing thickness is i.e. 1/4, 5/16 etc.
I think it has a lot to do with the Lutz Spruce. Taylor likens it to Adirondack and I have found that a lot of new adi tops are stiff and need to open up. They have immense headroom a bit it requires more energy to move them. Similar to cedar vs Sitka. Makes sense if you think about it. ;) - Chris McKee
Seemed to me the incidence on the player's playing is different too...As if the 714 made him more cautious, or as if he wanted (unconsciously?) to emphasize his sayings : quite obvious from 3rd chord of 1st "piece" in my mind...
The 714 may be less powerful but not so much as iy seems.
Good video. For me the 814ce sounds better. My style is James Taylor esque so I don't 'dig in' and I guess the 814ce would be better suited. I've had 7, 3 and the new 6 series in the past as I don't like the look of white bindings but I may have to put up wth it for my next one. I was going to get an X braced 714ce natural but on the strength of this I don't think I will.
Great review with the rain in the background....
Great video Chris! I agree there doesn't seem to be a contest. I'd take the 814 any day and I'm a big fan of the 714. I wonder whether the difference will be as noticeable once they open up in a few years?
Unfortunately this is a poor comparison. The SM57 is a very directional mic, and if you are even slightly off axis (or further away) it will sound very diminished. This is what happened with the 700 series in this video. Look at where the mic is pointed in the video for the 714 versus the 814. For the 714, it was angled further away from the body, and that is why it sounds so quiet compared to the 814. This greatly changes the dynamics of the mic as well. You should really repeat this video using a decent diaphragm mic.
Just an observation 814 Mic is nearer the sound hole than on the 714 ....
The audio clearly sounds muted and farther away for the 714ce. Even looks like he's strumming harder for the 814 lol
It's amazing just how much quieter the 714 is. A little smokier. I wouod have to say he's probably right about it being mostly due to the top.
Nice video! Thank you. I'm looking at the 700 series guitars, and I must say they are very nice guitars. I like the way they have a softer more mellow sound, as it really shined when you finger-picked at the end of the video. The sound of a guitar is such a personal thing, they both sound great! I'm also looking at a Martin 00028 Eric Clapton currently. I'm having a rough time deciding if I should buy the Martin, or the Taylor 714ce... I know luxury problems!! I'm really leaning toward the Taylor, I own two nice Martins already, and do not have a Taylor. So Thanks for the info my friend! Best regards.
Thank you!
I know you said that the 814 is naturally louder, but it actually sounds like you're intentionally playing the 714 softer.
I wasn't. The 814ce isn't necessarily louder. It is more resonant. I think the 714ce has more potential volume but requires more energy to get there, if that makes sense. Over time as the lutz spruce opens up that probably won't be the case.
it went from blowing up my phone to barley any noise, like it whas from the other room . it seems like a unfair compairison like this
Jim A
... totally agree this is a bogus comparison. i've played them both and there is no volume difference like this. don't know who alamo thinks it's fooling.
I whole heartedly agree
Thanks Chris, good video. The 814 sounds noticeably louder, deeper. I got my 714 from you last year, online, when I got it, I noticed that my 110 sounded better, louder, much more resonant (dreadnought, no gloss finish). However, it's opened up alot since. BTW, it's out of the case 95% of the time. The Resonance, that I have been hoping for is coming in and sounding better each time I pick it up. It may not have been as loud in the beginning, BUT, how loud would the 814 be now and how controllable would it be? I am so happy with my 714ce, thanks again bro!
So glad to ear that it is opening up. The 714ce as the lutz pruce top which is similar in some ways to Adirondack which can be tight in the beginning but as it opens up it has more volume potential than sitka spruce does. There are bracing detaisl that will affect that too but keep in mind that the species of the top is going to affect the initial volume and tone. - Chris McKee
I do agree that my 714ce has 'Martinesque' sound. It was the sound I was looking for. It was a sound that I grew up liking, which is why I ordered the 714. Again, I am very satisfied and happy. Taylor is an undeniable quality!!! Rock on Chris! Mele Kalikimaka 🤙🤙🤙
I'd have to do the comparison in person. Not saying that you were trying to bias the review, but why is the 814 not plugged in and the 714 is? There is also a clear change in volume on the 814 at one point like someone was turning up the eq while you were playing. I find it hard to believe that the 714 is that much quieter as the video volume suggests.
nice playing!! love your chord progressions
I own a 1996 814 C totally different than either of these two geetars. But that 814 blows that 714 away
Interesting? There’s no doubt that the sound has been manipulated to present the 814 as a louder guitar. However, this has been counter productive! Basically the 814 sounds sharply harsh and somewhat coarse rather than refined and resonant. I broke this recording down and listened to the guitars at a similar sound level. In my opinion the 714 has a more refined and balanced tonal voice. There is a convincing interaction and balance between the base, mids and top end thus projecting a more mellow sound. The fundamentals are nicely supported by the harmonic overtones and there’s no conflict as a result. However, the 814 does seem to project a slightly harsher overall tonal range. This presents a crisp tone but the harmony between the fundamentals and the overtones is not quite so balanced. Does this leaves it a degree flatter overall? IMO the 714 would be my guitar of choice in this comparison.
I noticed this immediately... I thought I had accidentally turned the volume up but it's clear the audio recording is much louder for the 814. Which seems oddly like it was purposely made to sound louder
The 814 has more low end and has more volume. The 714 sounds great, its mellow and warmer. I think the 814 sounds better, but the 714 might sound better with time.
Almost sounded as though the 814 had new strings and the 714 didn't...no comparison here really but I'm wondering how much of this was the actual recording difference since the mic wasn't placed ideal for the 714.
I actually like using a SM-57 for acoustic guitar cause you can hear that bottom end roar really well.
I've known you for a while now . Bro can you please tell me the tile of the music/song which you fingerstyled at last from G major. Please reply
great info thnx...
SOS please. I live in Phoenix Arizona. I play for church and am debating between these two guitars to play on sundays. I have a ton of problems with my current taylor 210ce because it feedbacks massive. I was told that the smaller 214 body would help. Also I saved up enough for an upgrade. which of these 2 guitars would you recomend for playing live at church?. thanks for all your videos you are extremely helpful man. God bless
Either one would be incredible upgrades from your 210ce. The 714ce has a darker, kinda chunkier sound. The 814ce acoustically is much more resonant and louder with a light touch. Give me a call and we can visit about your playing style and what works best. I have been a worship leader for 16 years and so I have some experience in traversing the waters of amplified acoustic, especially in that type of setting. You can reach me at 210-224-1010. Just ask for Chris.
-Chris McKee
714 sounds deeper more base, the 814 is louder and the high notes are more vibrant.
Thanks...enjoy these! Any particular houghts on a 2003 Taylor 710e?
The 710e is a great guitar. Those had Engelmann Spruce tops if I'm not mistaken. A great tone wood that is hard to find anymore. - Chris McKee
Which mic are you using? Sounds a bit muddy to me.
On this video it is an SM57
What kind of pick are you using?
I use a Dunlop Ultex 1.0 pick.
6:05 814 chords 6:24 714 chords
6mm is nearly a quarter of an inch. Are you sure that's not milli-inches,
6:04
what is best?
yamaha fg700
yamaha fg800
Ibanez AEG15II-LG
Takamine gd10-ns
i am sub, and i am live mexico xd
This video makes me laugh. The sound is soooo much lower. No fucking way in hell does that 714 project so low. That would be a total fail by Taylor, which I seriously doubt is the case.....more like user error.
I have the 714CE, and NO way is it THAT low ... and I pick on the thing all the time ... Matter of fact .... It ALMOST reminds me of the 814CE .... It has VERY nice low end and you can play it very quietly OR loudly ....
too much talking! less playing and my advice take some guitar lessons!