Taylor 314ce Koa Grand Auditorium Electro-Acoustic Guitar, (Used)

The Taylor 314ce Koa is a premium American-made electro-acoustic guitar combining the versatility of Taylor's celebrated Grand Auditorium body shape with the beautiful appearance and distinctive tonal character of Hawaiian koa. Designed for players who appreciate expressive acoustic sound, exceptional comfort and professional performance, the 314ce Koa offers a refined playing experience suitable for everything from delicate fingerstyle arrangements to powerful contemporary strumming.

The Grand Auditorium design has become one of Taylor's most recognisable innovations, offering a balanced combination of acoustic projection, clarity and playing comfort. Its elegant Venetian cutaway provides easier access to the upper frets, while the comfortable Taylor neck design makes the guitar appealing to musicians who regularly switch between chord work, fingerpicking and melodic lead passages.

Hawaiian koa is particularly prized for its striking natural figuring and its tonal characteristics, which can combine a focused midrange response with warmth, clarity and a pleasing natural sweetness. On a special-edition Taylor, koa also adds considerable visual appeal, making each instrument distinctive in appearance.

This particular Taylor 314ce Koa is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, weighs just 4.68 lbs (approximately 2.12kg) and comes complete with a hardcase.

For players seeking a second-hand Taylor 314ce Koa with professional electro-acoustic versatility, elegant construction and a comfortable lightweight feel, this is an appealing opportunity to own a distinctive member of Taylor's 300 Series family.

At A Glance

Pre-Owned Condition Report

Very Good Condition

This Taylor 314ce Koa is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, indicating some cosmetic wear consistent with careful previous ownership. Its elegant Grand Auditorium construction and attractive koa detailing give it the sophisticated appearance associated with Taylor's premium acoustic instruments.

The overall condition grading makes it an appealing choice for players seeking a well-presented pre-owned Taylor guitar. Specific marks, scratches, finish wear or other cosmetic imperfections have not been individually documented, so please study the product photographs for a closer assessment of this individual instrument.

Lightweight Construction

The guitar has a stated weight of 4.68 lbs (approximately 2.12kg), making it a comfortable instrument for extended playing sessions.

Its relatively lightweight construction is particularly appealing to fingerstyle players, singer-songwriters and performing musicians who appreciate a full-size acoustic guitar without unnecessary weight.

Hardcase Included

A hardcase is included with this Taylor 314ce Koa, providing useful protection during storage and transportation.

The hardcase is particularly beneficial for an instrument with decorative koa construction, helping protect the guitar from accidental contact and the everyday demands of moving between home, rehearsals and performances.

The case has not been confirmed as the original Taylor factory case.

What's Included

• Taylor 314ce Koa Grand Auditorium Electro-Acoustic Guitar

• Hardcase

No additional accessories have been confirmed.

Fair Deal Music Quality Control Assessment

Fair Deal Music's pre-owned acoustic guitar assessment considers general construction, neck condition, fret wear, bridge and saddle condition, tuning stability, electronics and overall playability.

For an electro-acoustic Taylor such as the 314ce Koa, particular attention is relevant to the acoustic sound, neck relief, string action, pickup operation, onboard controls and output connection.

An individual testing report, production year and electronic system identification have not been supplied for this guitar.

Service & Setup

All pre-owned guitars at Fair Deal Music are checked for general setup and playability before leaving the shop. Important areas include string action, neck relief, fret condition, saddle height, intonation, tuning stability and the general operation of the electro-acoustic system. Acoustic guitars also benefit from appropriate storage conditions and careful monitoring of humidity, particularly where solid tonewoods are used. Please note that guitar setups can naturally change over time due to fluctuations in humidity, temperature and environmental conditions, which may affect neck relief, string action and overall playability.

Key Features

• Premium Taylor 314ce Koa: A distinctive variation on Taylor's popular 300 Series Grand Auditorium design.

• Hawaiian Koa: Attractive figured tonewood with a distinctive tonal character and natural visual appeal.

• Grand Auditorium Body: Balanced acoustic projection suitable for both strumming and fingerstyle playing.

• Venetian Cutaway: Comfortable access to higher frets for melodic playing.

• Taylor Neck Design: Known for comfortable action and a responsive, contemporary playing feel.

• 25.5-Inch Scale Length: Familiar Taylor string tension and clear note definition.

• Electro-Acoustic Versatility: Suitable for amplified performances and recording.

• American Taylor Heritage: Part of the company's established 300 Series acoustic guitar family.

• Lightweight at 4.68 lbs: Comfortable for longer rehearsals and performances.

• Very Good Pre-Owned Condition: An appealing alternative to purchasing a new premium electro-acoustic guitar.

• Hardcase Included: Practical protection for storage and transportation.

Why You'll Love It

The Taylor 314ce Koa combines three qualities that make it particularly desirable: beautiful materials, a versatile acoustic voice and the comfortable playing feel for which Taylor guitars are known.

Its Grand Auditorium body provides enough projection for full chord work while retaining the balance and articulation needed for fingerstyle playing. This makes it an excellent choice for musicians who need one acoustic guitar to cover a variety of techniques and musical situations.

The presence of Hawaiian koa adds visual individuality and a distinctive tonal influence, while the cutaway and electro-acoustic design make the guitar practical for stage and studio use.

At just 4.68 lbs, with a hardcase included, this individual example also offers excellent comfort and practicality for musicians who regularly transport their guitar.

Detailed Features & Benefits

Hawaiian Koa Tonewood & Natural Character

Hawaiian koa is one of the most visually distinctive tonewoods used in premium acoustic guitar construction, prized for its rich colouring, flowing grain patterns and attractive natural figuring. Tonally, koa is often associated with a focused midrange, clear articulation and a warm, sweet character that can develop as the instrument is played over time. The use of koa gives the Taylor 314ce Koa a distinctive identity within the broader 300 Series, appealing to musicians who appreciate both the appearance and acoustic qualities of carefully selected tonewoods.

Versatile Grand Auditorium Body

Taylor's Grand Auditorium body shape was developed to provide a balanced acoustic response suitable for a wide range of playing styles. It offers a practical middle ground between the focused articulation of smaller-bodied guitars and the powerful projection of larger dreadnought designs, making it equally comfortable for fingerpicking, flatpicking and full chord strumming. The body proportions also provide a comfortable playing position, allowing the guitar to sit naturally whether seated or standing during extended sessions.

Comfortable Venetian Cutaway

The Taylor 314ce Koa features the elegant Venetian cutaway traditionally associated with the 314ce design, providing easier access to the higher frets without dramatically altering the body's overall appearance. Its smooth, rounded shape complements the Grand Auditorium outline while allowing players to explore melodic passages, upper-register chord voicings and lead parts more comfortably. This makes the guitar particularly appealing to musicians who combine traditional acoustic rhythm playing with fingerstyle arrangements or more expressive melodic techniques.

Taylor Neck Design & Playing Comfort

Taylor guitars have developed a strong reputation for comfortable neck profiles, consistent construction and an approachable playing feel, making them popular with both acoustic specialists and electric guitarists transitioning to acoustic instruments. The 314ce design typically features a comfortable mahogany neck with a familiar 25.5-inch scale length, providing clear note definition and an effective balance between string tension and playability. This responsive neck design is especially useful for players who move between open chords, barre chords, fingerstyle techniques and melodic passages throughout a performance.

Balanced Acoustic Tone & Dynamic Response

The Grand Auditorium design is particularly effective at producing a balanced acoustic sound that responds naturally to differences in playing strength and technique. Gentle fingerpicking can reveal individual note detail and harmonic complexity, while stronger strumming produces a fuller, more projected response suitable for accompanying vocals or performing in an acoustic ensemble. This dynamic range makes the 314ce Koa a versatile choice for players who want a single instrument capable of handling intimate acoustic arrangements and more energetic performances.

Professional Electro-Acoustic Performance

The Taylor 314ce Koa's electro-acoustic design allows the instrument to be connected to suitable acoustic amplifiers, DI systems, recording interfaces and PA equipment. Taylor has used several generations of pickup and preamp technology across the 314ce family, including the original Expression System and the later Expression System 2, so the precise electronics fitted should be established from the individual guitar. Regardless of the specific generation, the electro-acoustic format is particularly useful for performing musicians who want to amplify their acoustic sound without relying entirely on an external microphone.

Fingerstyle Clarity & Note Separation

The Taylor Grand Auditorium platform has long been appreciated for its ability to reproduce individual notes clearly, making it particularly effective for fingerstyle playing. The balanced relationship between the bass, midrange and treble frequencies helps complex chord voicings remain distinct, while the responsive acoustic construction allows subtle variations in picking technique to influence the sound naturally. For guitarists exploring alternating-bass patterns, melodic fingerpicking, percussive acoustic techniques or contemporary instrumental arrangements, the 314ce Koa provides a particularly versatile foundation.

Strumming Versatility & Vocal Accompaniment

Although the 314ce is highly regarded for fingerstyle playing, its Grand Auditorium body also provides sufficient projection and tonal weight for full strumming patterns. This makes it an appealing instrument for singer-songwriters who need a guitar that supports vocals without overwhelming them, particularly when moving between softer verses and more energetic choruses. The balanced acoustic response is also useful when recording multiple guitar layers, allowing chord parts to retain clarity within a larger musical arrangement.

Lightweight Construction & Practical Portability

At 4.68 lbs, this particular Taylor 314ce Koa offers the comfortable handling associated with a well-balanced acoustic guitar. Its lightweight feel is particularly beneficial for musicians who play extended sets, rehearse regularly or frequently switch between sitting and standing positions. The inclusion of a hardcase adds another practical advantage, providing protection during storage and travel while making the guitar a convenient option for performers who need a premium acoustic instrument that can be transported confidently.

Who Is It For?

Intermediate Guitarists: An excellent upgrade for players moving from entry-level acoustic guitars who want improved playing comfort, refined construction and a more responsive acoustic sound.

Experienced & Professional Musicians: The Grand Auditorium body, cutaway and electro-acoustic format provide the versatility needed for recording, rehearsals and performance.

Fingerstyle Guitarists: Its balanced acoustic response and comfortable neck design make it especially suitable for detailed fingerpicking and melodic arrangements.

Singer-Songwriters: A strong option for accompanying vocals, offering articulate acoustic tones for both gentle fingerpicking and full strumming.

Performing Musicians: The electro-acoustic design allows the guitar to be integrated into suitable live amplification and PA systems.

Taylor Enthusiasts: Particularly appealing to players seeking a distinctive koa variation of the established 314ce design.

Acoustic Guitar Collectors: The visual character of koa makes this an attractive addition to a collection focused on premium acoustic tonewoods and American guitar craftsmanship.

Playing Styles & Applications

The Taylor 314ce Koa is particularly well suited to contemporary acoustic music, folk, country, pop, indie, blues, fingerstyle guitar, acoustic rock and singer-songwriter performances.

Its balanced response makes it effective for intricate fingerpicking, melodic playing, open-chord strumming and more demanding acoustic arrangements.

For live performance, the electro-acoustic design allows connection to an appropriate acoustic amplifier, DI box or PA system, making it practical for solo musicians and full-band arrangements.

In the studio, its controlled acoustic response and note separation make it useful for recording fingerstyle passages, layered rhythm guitars and intimate acoustic accompaniments.

How It Compares

Taylor 314ce Koa vs Standard Taylor 314ce

The standard Taylor 314ce is traditionally associated with a Sitka spruce top and sapele back and sides, providing a versatile, balanced acoustic response with a clear midrange and excellent projection. Koa-equipped limited editions offer a different visual character and tonal personality, making them particularly appealing to players who appreciate the appearance and response of Hawaiian koa. Both share the broadly versatile Grand Auditorium concept, with the choice depending on the individual guitar's tonewood combination, production specification and personal playing preferences.

Taylor 314ce Koa vs Taylor 414ce

The Taylor 414ce occupies a different position within Taylor's acoustic range, with specifications that have varied over different production periods. Depending on the year and version, 400 Series guitars may feature alternative tonewoods, appointments and construction details. The 314ce Koa is particularly attractive to players who prefer the familiar 300 Series platform but want the distinctive character and appearance associated with a koa-equipped special edition, rather than simply moving to a higher-numbered model.

Taylor 314ce Koa vs Taylor GS Mini-e Koa

The Taylor GS Mini-e Koa is designed around a smaller, more compact body and shorter scale length, making it particularly appealing for travel, casual playing and musicians who prioritise portability. The 314ce Koa offers a full-size Grand Auditorium playing experience with a longer scale length, greater acoustic body capacity and a more traditional professional performance format. Players seeking a compact guitar may favour the GS Mini, while those wanting a full-size instrument for regular stage and studio use may prefer the 314ce Koa.

Understanding Hawaiian Koa

Hawaiian koa is a hardwood native to Hawaii and has become one of the most recognisable materials used in premium acoustic guitar construction.

Its appearance can vary considerably, ranging from warm golden-brown shades to darker reddish tones, sometimes featuring dramatic curl, flame or other figuring.

In acoustic guitar construction, koa is often prized for its focused midrange, articulate response and tonal warmth. However, the final sound of any guitar depends on more than the wood alone: the soundboard, bracing, body shape, construction and individual instrument all contribute.

Koa-equipped guitars are particularly attractive to musicians who want an instrument combining visual individuality with an expressive acoustic voice.

Taylor Guitars Heritage

Taylor Guitars was founded in California in 1974 by Bob Taylor and Kurt Listug, developing into one of the world's most influential modern acoustic guitar manufacturers.

The company established its reputation through innovative construction methods, consistent manufacturing quality and a strong emphasis on playing comfort.

The Grand Auditorium body shape, introduced in 1994, became a defining part of Taylor's range, offering a versatile design that could accommodate a broad variety of playing styles.

The 300 Series has long occupied an important position within Taylor's American-made acoustic guitar family, balancing professional-grade construction with the practical requirements of working musicians.

Koa-equipped variations of the 314ce add another dimension to this heritage, combining the familiar Grand Auditorium concept with the appearance and character of one of the acoustic guitar world's most distinctive tonewoods.

Technical Specifications

The 314ce Koa has been produced in different limited-edition specifications. The information below distinguishes the confirmed details of this guitar from the general 314ce design. Exact tonewood configuration, bracing and electronics should be confirmed against its serial number and photographs.

Power Requirements

The Taylor 314ce Koa can be played acoustically without any external power supply.

When using its electro-acoustic pickup system, the onboard electronics require battery power. Taylor's Expression System generations have used different battery arrangements, so the exact battery type should be confirmed against the pickup and preamp fitted to this individual guitar.

For amplified use, the guitar can be connected to a compatible acoustic guitar amplifier, DI box or audio interface using a suitable ¼-inch instrument cable.

🎵 Fair Deal Music Expert Verdict ★★★★★

The Taylor 314ce Koa is an excellent option for guitarists seeking the versatile playing experience of a Taylor Grand Auditorium with the added appeal of Hawaiian koa.

Its comfortable body shape, accessible cutaway and responsive acoustic design make it particularly well suited to musicians who move between fingerstyle playing, strumming and melodic arrangements.

The koa construction adds visual character and a distinctive identity within the Taylor 300 Series, making this an attractive alternative to more commonly encountered standard 314ce configurations.

This particular example is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, with a stated weight of just 4.68 lbs and a hardcase included.

Best Suited For: Intermediate, experienced and professional acoustic guitarists, singer-songwriters and fingerstyle players seeking a versatile premium electro-acoustic instrument.

Customers Usually Upgrade From: Taylor 100 and 200 Series guitars, entry-level electro-acoustics and other mid-range acoustic instruments.

Most Commonly Paired With: Acoustic guitar amplifiers, quality DI boxes, acoustic preamp pedals, instrument cables and suitable guitar humidification accessories.

Our Tip: Explore the guitar using both fingerstyle playing and moderate strumming before adjusting your amplifier EQ. The Grand Auditorium design is particularly effective at revealing subtle differences in picking attack and dynamics.

Showroom Advice: For koa-equipped Taylor guitars, the exact production edition is worth establishing, as different 314ce Koa releases have featured different wood combinations, bracing designs and electronics.

Why Buy Pre-Owned From Fair Deal Music?

Buying a pre-owned Taylor 314ce Koa from Fair Deal Music provides the opportunity to own a premium electro-acoustic guitar with distinctive tonewoods and professional playing characteristics at an attractive alternative to purchasing new.

Our experienced team understands the importance of accurate condition descriptions, clear specifications and honest information about the individual instrument being offered.

This Taylor 314ce Koa is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, weighs 4.68 lbs and comes complete with a hardcase.

For players exploring premium American-made acoustic guitars, our team can help explain the differences between Taylor body shapes, tonewood combinations and electro-acoustic systems.

Purchasing pre-owned also extends the useful life of quality musical instruments and gives musicians access to special editions that may no longer be available in current production.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you're choosing one of the UK's most established, independent family run music retailers since 1987.

As Birmingham's largest independent music store, we have spent nearly four decades helping musicians find the right guitars, amplifiers, effects and musical equipment.

Our experienced team provides friendly, knowledgeable advice by phone, online and through our Birmingham showroom, helping customers choose instruments that suit their playing styles and requirements.

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you benefit from:

• Independent family-run music retailer established in 1987

• Birmingham's largest independent music store

• Over 6,000 Trustpilot reviews

• Knowledgeable, musician-led advice

• Extensive experience with pre-owned acoustic and electro-acoustic guitars

• Competitive pricing

• Secure online ordering

• Fast UK delivery options

• Large Birmingham showroom

• Friendly support before and after purchase

• Part-exchange and trade-in services

Our team can also advise on acoustic amplification, humidity management and suitable accessories for your Taylor guitar.

Part Exchange – Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Looking to upgrade your existing acoustic guitar?

Fair Deal Music buys and part-exchanges a wide range of musical equipment, including acoustic guitars, electric guitars, basses, amplifiers, effects pedals and keyboards.

Your existing guitar could help towards the cost of this Taylor 314ce Koa.

Contact our team for a no-obligation valuation and discover what your current instrument could be worth in part exchange.

Frequently Asked Questions

What condition is this Taylor 314ce Koa in?

This guitar is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, indicating some cosmetic wear consistent with careful previous ownership.

Does this guitar come with a hardcase?

Yes. A hardcase is included with this particular guitar.

How much does the guitar weigh?

This Taylor 314ce Koa weighs 4.68 lbs, approximately 2.12kg.

What is Hawaiian koa?

Koa is a hardwood native to Hawaii, prized for its attractive figuring and tonal characteristics when used in acoustic guitars.

Does this Taylor have a solid koa top?

The precise top material has not been confirmed. Some 314ce Koa limited editions feature spruce tops with koa back and sides, so the exact model specification should be checked before describing the top as koa.

Is the Taylor 314ce Koa a full-size acoustic guitar?

Yes. The 314ce uses Taylor's full-size Grand Auditorium body shape.

What does 314ce mean?

Within Taylor's traditional model naming system, 314 identifies a six-string guitar in the 300 Series with a Grand Auditorium body, while the C and E indicate cutaway and electronics.

Does it have a cutaway?

Yes. The 314ce features a cutaway designed to improve access to the upper frets.

Is this guitar suitable for fingerstyle playing?

Yes. Taylor's Grand Auditorium body is particularly well suited to fingerstyle playing thanks to its balanced acoustic response and clear note separation.

Is it suitable for strumming?

Yes. The Grand Auditorium design provides sufficient projection and fullness for a broad range of strumming styles.

Can I use this guitar for live performance?

Yes. Its electro-acoustic format allows it to be connected to suitable amplification and sound reinforcement equipment.

What pickup system does it have?

The exact pickup generation has not been confirmed. Different production periods and limited editions have featured different generations of Taylor's Expression System electronics.

Does the guitar need batteries?

The onboard electro-acoustic system requires battery power when amplified. The correct battery type depends on the electronics fitted.

What is the scale length?

The Taylor 314ce design uses a 25.5-inch scale length.

How many frets does it have?

The standard 314ce specification features 20 frets.

Where is the Taylor 314ce made?

The 314ce belongs to Taylor's American-made acoustic guitar range.

Is the 314ce Koa a limited edition?

Taylor has produced koa-equipped 314ce limited editions. The particular edition and production year of this guitar have not yet been identified.

Is it better than the standard Taylor 314ce?

Neither is automatically better. The choice depends on the individual guitar, its tonewood configuration, playing feel, acoustic sound and the player's preferences.

How should I store a koa acoustic guitar?

Keep the guitar in a stable environment, avoid excessive heat or dryness and monitor relative humidity. Taylor generally recommends maintaining acoustic guitars around 45–55% relative humidity.

Can I part-exchange another guitar towards this Taylor?

Yes. Fair Deal Music considers acoustic guitars and other musical equipment for part exchange. Contact our team for a no-obligation valuation.