Explanation
Taylor / 2019 Builder’s Edition 517
The “Builder’s Edition 517,”
created by Taylor Master Builder Andy Powers
When people think of Taylor guitars, many may imagine a modern, dazzling sound with a sharply defined high-end.
However, this model vividly defies that preconception.
The moment you pluck a string, a surprisingly rich, warm, and full-bodied tone fills the air.
The secret lies in the innovative “Grand Pacific” body shape—a modern reinterpretation of the classic round-shoulder dreadnought.
This shape produces a deep, enveloping resonance without any muddiness in even the lowest notes—the ideal sound that today’s guitarists have been seeking.
Furthermore, this deep, resonant tone is supported by a relentless commitment to carefully selected woods.
The top is crafted from “Trifized Sitka Spruce,” which has undergone a special heat treatment to transform the wood’s internal structure—making it equivalent to that of an old guitar that has been played for many years. Although
brand-new, it produces a dry, resonant sound, as if more than half a century has already passed, with all excess moisture removed.
Paired with this is “Tropical Mahogany” for the sides and back, which brings out the pleasant richness of the midrange and a woody warmth to the utmost degree. When strummed, it produces a tone that encompasses the seemingly incompatible sensations of being both earthy and refined.
When fingerpicked, each note has a tone that feels like a gentle whisper right by your ear.
It eliminates the pitch drift in the higher frets—an issue that was previously unavoidable on conventional guitars—ensuring precise intonation no matter where you play, along with sustain that stretches out beautifully and endlessly.
The true value of this guitar extends far beyond its sound.
It offers supreme playability—the moment you pick it up, it molds to your body like a longtime companion. Awarded the special designation “Builder’s Edition,” this model is studded with design elements that reflect the craftsman’s sheer dedication.
The compound-curved neck, which transitions smoothly from the low to the high positions, makes the shift from chord work to solo phrases astonishingly seamless.
Furthermore, the edges of the body and fingerboard have been carefully beveled, so you’ll feel a sense of unity—as if the guitar is drawn to the contours of your body—the moment you cradle it.
The ultra-thin Silent Satin finish minimizes friction noise against clothing, ensuring that only the pure sound of the guitar is produced—whether you’re strumming in a quiet study late at night or standing in front of a microphone in a recording studio.
Furthermore, this instrument is equipped with an L.R. Baggs M1 Active pickup, enabling natural line output and making it a flawlessly customized instrument.
We sincerely hope that those who appreciate the aesthetics of traditional acoustic guitars but refuse to compromise on modern playability will experience the joy of owning this special instrument.
[Specifications/Included Case]
TOP: Torrefied Sitka Spruce
BACK/SIDES: Solid Tropical Mahogany
FINGERBOARD/BRIDGE: West African Crelicam Ebony
NECK: Tropical Mahogany
NUT WIDTH: 44.0mm
SCALE: 646mm
Electronics: L.R.Baggs M1 Active
CASE: Original Hardshell Case
*Consignment Item
[Repair/Modification History / Replaced Parts / Cosmetic Condition, etc.]
*Please note that as this is a used/vintage item, the information provided is based on what we were able to confirm during our inspection.
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Pickup installed.
[Playing Condition]
- String action at the 12th fret: 2.1 mm on the 6th string side, 1.6 mm
on the 1st string side - Saddle height: Approx. 3.5 mm to 4.0 mm
- The electronics are in good working order, and the instrument can be used without any issues. - There are no playing issues such as
buzzing or muffled tones.
[Warranty]
As this is a consignment item, it does not come with our store’s warranty.
Of course, after purchase, we are happy to discuss adjustments, repairs, and other services (for a fee) upon request.
Please note that this item is not eligible for our mail-order trial service. (No returns accepted.)
Scheduled for shipment
Payment & Security
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Warranty for Used Products
Please click here for detailed warranty terms.
Electric Guitars / Electric Basses / Effectors / Amplifiers (Adjustment Warranty: Up to 5 years)
If your instrument malfunctions or stops producing sound after purchase, we will provide service free of charge. The warranty period varies by product.
Acoustic Guitars (Peace of Mind Warranty: Up to 6 months)
For defects arising from normal use, we will provide free service for either 1 month or 6 months after purchase.
Wind Instruments (Up to 1 Year)
Upon arrival, we clean the interior of the instrument, replace consumables as needed, and perform any necessary repairs and maintenance. If the instrument malfunctions or stops producing sound during normal use, we will repair it free of charge.
◯ There is no warranty on junk items.