Taylor Introduces Ultra-Limited 9-String 35th Anniversary Model
(ShackMan | Posted 2009-09-13)
EL CAJON, Calif. - September 10, 2009 - According to Taylor guitars, "You asked for it," and that's exactly the approach they're taking with the new run of 35th Anniversary Models. Taylor is putting together a new set of instruments that guitar players have requested through the years that are each a first-of-its-kind for the company, and the latest unveiling is Taylor's 9-string beauty.
Notice it isn't nine separate strings but rather two bass strings, the D and G doubled an octave apart, a doubled B string, and a high E. It's got 12-string jangle with 6-string playability, merely embellishing the sound with three additional strings for shimmery midrange sparkle. Don't see what I mean? Let me zoom in for you...
For a long time, Nashville players have worked in custom 9-string axes to their quiver of recording instruments to add some midrange sparkle without oversaturating the mix. The undoubled low strings are perfect for adding a walking bassline to the chords as well, making this one of the most versatile guitars I've ever seen.
The XXXV-9 features a GS body shape with Tropical mahogany back and sides, a Sitka spruce top, and Taylor's Standard II soundboard bracing. Other appointments include a three-ring abalone rosette, a "35" anniversary logo between the 11th and 12th frets, and the company's Expression SystemŪ pickup, for high-fidelity plugged-in playing. Chrome mini tuners and buttons grace the rosewood peghead veneer, along with a mother-of-pearl peghead "Taylor" inlay.
Taylor is serious about these guitars too. The XXXV-9 comes ready to play with ElixirŪ strings and in a hardshell Taylor case, and includes a certificate of authenticity signed by Taylor Guitars co-founders Bob Taylor and Kurt Listug. The XXXV-9 will be produced in an initial run of (appropriately) only 35 guitars and offered at a suggested retail price of $4998; expect to pay in the ballpark of $4,000-$4,500 for the model in stores. All 35th Anniversary models, including those yet-to-be announced, are expected to be available in North America in early fall and internationally late Winter.
For additional information about the 35th Anniversary models, please visit
www.taylorguitars.com/guitars/limiteds/35thAnniversary/
James is a bassist, pianist, organist, composer and writer currently living and working in the Pittsburgh, PA, and Morgantown, WV areas. He is currently performing regularly with Justin Barclay in his musical endeavors. You can reach him at james.rushin@musicgearreview.com.
