The Taylor T5 is celebrated for its versatility, capable of producing a wide range of tones from acoustic-like shimmer to electric bite. For owners who appreciate its adaptability, exploring different sonic territories is part of the guitar’s appeal. One common quest for T5 players is achieving a warm, mellow jazz sound, reminiscent of iconic players like Wes Montgomery. This article, drawing on insights from Taylor guitar experts, addresses how to dial in that sought-after jazz tone on your T5 Taylor Guitar, ensuring you get the most out of this exceptional instrument.
Wayne Johnson’s T5 Jazz Tone Settings: A Foundation
Wayne Johnson, a renowned guitarist and Taylor aficionado, has shared his go-to settings for achieving a jazz sound on the T5. These settings are a fantastic starting point for any player looking to venture into jazz territory. Johnson’s approach focuses on utilizing the T5’s unique pickup system and tone controls to sculpt a warm and rounded sound.
Pickup Selection: Embracing the Neck Humbucker
The key to Johnson’s jazz tone lies in the pickup selection. He recommends using the second pickup position, which engages the under-fretboard humbucker exclusively. This pickup’s placement closer to the neck naturally produces a warmer, rounder tone, ideal for jazz. Conversely, avoid using the body sensor or the bridge humbucker, as these are designed for brighter, more articulate sounds, less suited for traditional jazz.
Tone Knob Adjustments: Bass and Treble are Key
Fine-tuning the tone knobs is crucial for shaping the jazz voice. Johnson advises a specific configuration:
- Bass Knob: Boost the bass. Starting from the center detent position, turn the bass knob clockwise to approximately the 3/4 mark. This adjustment emphasizes the lower frequencies and low-midrange, adding warmth and body to your tone, essential for that classic jazz fullness.
- Treble Knob: Cut the treble. From the detent position, reduce the treble by turning the knob counter-clockwise to around the 1/4 mark. Rolling off the high-end frequencies eliminates harshness and creates a smoother, mellower sound profile, characteristic of jazz guitar tones.
With these settings, the white indicator lines on the bass and treble knobs will be roughly facing each other, providing a visual cue for your starting point.
Volume Settings: Finding the Sweet Spot
The volume knob on your T5 should typically be set at the detent position or slightly boosted from there. Experiment with subtle increases to find the optimal level without sacrificing tone quality.
Amplifier Settings for Jazz Tone: Complementing Your T5
While the T5’s onboard controls are powerful, your amplifier plays a vital role in the final jazz sound. The goal with amp settings is to further enhance the warm, rounded tone initiated by the guitar’s controls.
EQ Considerations: Bass, Treble, and the Elusive Mids
Similar to the T5 settings, focus on the amp’s EQ to boost the bass frequencies and reduce the treble. This reinforces the warm tonal foundation.
Experimenting with Midrange: The Tricky Element
The midrange frequencies are more nuanced. Johnson points out that midrange control varies greatly between amplifiers. Ideally, you want to subtly boost the low mids to add further warmth and thickness. However, be cautious of boosting high mids, which can introduce unwanted harshness. If your amp’s mid control seems to emphasize high mids, it’s best to leave it at a neutral or center position. Experimentation is key to finding the sweet spot for your specific amplifier.
Equalizers: Precision Tone Shaping
For players seeking ultimate control over their tone, an equalizer (EQ) pedal or rack unit is a valuable tool. An EQ allows for precise shaping of individual frequency bands, offering greater control than standard amp tone controls. Johnson mentions using the Taylor K4 Equalizer in studio settings to fine-tune his tone when going direct, highlighting the benefits of external EQ for detailed sound sculpting.
The Thumb Technique: A Nod to Jazz Masters
Beyond settings, playing technique significantly influences jazz tone. Wes Montgomery, a jazz guitar legend, famously played with his thumb, producing a naturally warmer and rounder attack compared to using a pick. Experimenting with thumb-style playing on your T5 can further enhance the jazz characteristics of your sound, adding an extra layer of authenticity to your tone.
Conclusion: Your Journey to Jazz Tone
Achieving a jazz sound on your T5 Taylor guitar is a journey of exploration. By starting with Wayne Johnson’s recommended settings, carefully adjusting your amplifier EQ, and considering techniques like thumb-style playing, you can unlock a rich and satisfying jazz voice from your versatile T5. Remember to experiment and trust your ears to find the settings that best capture your ideal jazz tone. The T5 is a capable instrument ready to explore diverse musical styles, and with these tips, jazz is well within your reach.
