Taylor acoustic guitars have never let me down for consistent high quality – now there's one for sensible money in the Black Friday sales

(Image credit: Taylor Guitars)

Part of my job as a Reviews Editor is I see and play a lot of guitars, more specifically, I test them. And when it comes to acoustic guitars the Taylor name always stands out for me for its quality and consistency right out of the box. I know I'm not alone in thinking this, but the problem is that quality often comes at a higher price. However, this Black Friday, Sweetwater has this Taylor 114ce Grand Auditorium acoustic-electric with $100 off that is helping to address the issue.

You don't have to buy Builder's Editions to get Taylor quality – I used to gig with my little Taylor GS Mini mahogany with a soundhole pickup fitted in, and I still play it every day at home. But it's Taylor's Grand Auditorium that is its classic shape for me, and the perfect Goldilocks design. Smaller than a dreadnought, so friendlier to more players and a great all-rounder for chords or finger picking. So when I was scouting for a personal recommendation to share with readers in the Black Friday guitar deals, I was very pleased to find the Taylor 114ce Grand Auditorium with $100 off at Sweetwater.

I know this guitar will deliver for players at home or the stage. Taylor ensures playability and a hi-fi clarity across its ranges – I've seen and heard it for years as a reviewer. If you're investing in your first acoustic, or first electro-acoustic for the stage, this is a really safe bet, with Sweetwater's renowned customer service allowing you to pick the exact guitar you want to buy from its stock over on its website.

How many online retailers offer that? In return you'll get a torrefied (aged) Sitka spruce top that gives you a shortcut to a added resonance, a lighter weight and a lovely vintage look. The included Expression System 2 is a quality pickup and preamp package to see at $699 too. It'll stand you in good stead if you want to venture out with your Taylor for live sessions.

Taylor also offers the best-quality gig bags I've encountered in the acoustic market, so getting one included here is another bonus. Plus, with a cutaway design you don't have to compromise on upper frets access.

I'm jealous of any player who might get to be gifted this for Christmas!