Taylor Swift’s influence on music is undeniable, and her impact extends to inspiring countless young people, especially girls, to pick up the guitar. As a guitar teacher, I’ve witnessed this firsthand, guiding students through Taylor’s hits from “You Belong With Me” to her more recent tracks. So, when a friend offered me her Taylor Swift ‘Midnights’ acoustic guitar by Epiphone, an impulse-driven purchase she regretted, I jumped at the chance.
While I wouldn’t call myself a die-hard Swiftie, I appreciate some of her songs like “I Knew You Were Trouble,” “Cruel Summer,” and “Vigilante Shit.” The idea of owning a unique instrument, potentially for student rentals, seemed like a smart move. Dropping $550 on this guitar felt justifiable, rescuing it from a friend’s buyer’s remorse after her own impulsive online purchase triggered by a fan email.
But unboxing the Epiphone and seeing Taylor Swift’s image emblazoned on the guitar body, a flicker of doubt sparked. Had I made the right financial decision? Should I have put that money towards a high-end Taylor acoustic, like the one that captivated me at a local guitar store just months before?
The Allure: What’s to Love About the Taylor Swift Acoustic Guitar
This Epiphone, part of Taylor Swift’s ‘Eras’ guitar series, undeniably possesses a unique charm. Strumming “Vigilante Shit” on it did feel pretty cool, and it certainly looks the part. Immediately noticeable was the incredibly low action straight out of the box – a player-friendly setup right away. While there’s a slight buzz on the strings near the headstock, I anticipate this will settle with time and playing.
The inclusion of strap buttons is another plus for me, as I prefer playing standing up. And, to its credit, the guitar produces a genuinely pleasing and resonant tone. For casual playing and Swiftie singalongs, it certainly hits the right notes.
The Reality Check: Where the Taylor Swift Acoustic Guitar Falls Short
The biggest surprise, and not a pleasant one, came when I realized there’s no built-in pickup system. For a $550 acoustic guitar, especially one marketed with artist association, this omission feels significant. My own Alvarez acoustic, which cost considerably less around $300, includes a pickup. This means amplifying the Epiphone for performance or recording requires external microphones, which is less convenient and limits mobility when playing.
Furthermore, the glossy finish, while visually striking, lacks the tactile appeal of unfinished wood. I miss the smooth, natural feel of guitars like the Taylor 114ce, my long-term acoustic aspiration, or even my more affordable Alvarez. While aesthetics are subjective, the finish does contribute to a slightly less “premium” feel in hand compared to similarly priced acoustics with natural wood finishes.
Buyer’s Verdict: Impulse Buy or Lasting Love?
Do I regret buying this Taylor Swift Acoustic Guitar? Not entirely. Life is indeed too short for regrets, and there’s enjoyment to be found in this unique instrument. However, am I head-over-heels obsessed? Honestly, no. A part of me does wish that $550 was still in my bank account, perhaps earmarked for that Taylor 114ce. But as the saying goes, everything happens for a reason, and this guitar has entered my world.
In all seriousness, I intend to appreciate this eye-catching instrument. It’s arguably the most photogenic guitar I own, rivaling my Gibson SG and ES-335 in visual appeal. Plus, the undeniable “cool factor” it holds for my Taylor Swift-loving guitar students is a definite bonus. Ultimately, the Taylor Swift Epiphone acoustic guitar is a fun, visually appealing instrument that will resonate strongly with fans. However, for serious acoustic players seeking versatility and premium features at this price point, exploring other options with pickups and potentially higher-grade tonewoods might be worthwhile.
