For those eyeing a Taylor 314ce Guitar, understanding the pricing landscape is key. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for a brand new 314ce sits around $2200. However, the good news for buyers is that you rarely have to pay full MSRP.
Discounts are commonly available, and you can often find new 314ce guitars at prices up to 15% below MSRP. Securing this level of discount might require some savvy shopping. Consider checking online retailers or waiting for promotional periods, such as major holiday sales at large music stores. Online marketplaces like Reverb often list new models at around 10% off, and contacting large retailers directly, such as Sweetwater, may yield similar savings.
If a new guitar stretches your budget, the used market presents a more affordable entry point. A fair price for a used Taylor 314ce in good condition typically hovers around 70% of the MSRP. Bargain hunters might occasionally find one closer to 60% of MSRP, but these deals require patience and diligent searching. Keep in mind that finding a used 314ce below 60% of MSRP is quite rare.
If the 314ce price still exceeds your comfortable spending limit, don’t worry, Taylor offers excellent alternatives within the same body size and playability range. The Taylor 114ce, with an MSRP of $1000, and the Taylor 214ce, priced at $1100 MSRP, provide similar playing experiences at a lower cost.
The primary difference lies in the tonewoods used for the sides and back. While the 314ce boasts solid wood construction for enhanced tonal resonance, the 114ce and 214ce utilize layered wood. This construction difference contributes to a tonal variation, but the neck profile, body dimensions, and overall shape remain consistent across these models.
For further cost savings, explore less common variations of the 114, 214, and 314 series that omit the “c” (cutaway) and/or “e” (electronics) designations. Models without these features are generally priced slightly lower. While cutaways and electronics are popular, they aren’t essential for all players. However, be aware that Taylors are predominantly manufactured with “ce” features, so finding models without them might require a bit more searching.
Ultimately, understanding these price points and available options will empower you to make an informed decision when purchasing your Taylor guitar.
