im strongly considering this for my first nylon. Im just afraid of getting a sound thats too "plasticky" i really want that warm and woody tone. i feel like this is a good choice for the price. I was advised to get a cordoba but i feel like theyre more plasticky than these.
Hi, I can only offer my personal opinion and after trying some Cordoba classical and crossover nylon string guitars (which are fantastic guitars and great value for the money) I decided to buy the Taylor Academy 12e-N because not only did it have a much better tone and projection but with the built in arm rest it was much more comfortable to play. That said the Taylor Academy 12e-N does come factory fitted with D'addario Pro-Arte EJ46FF High Tension Carbon Strings which are much brighter strings anyway and definitely not "plasticky" sounding as the normal standard nylon strings fitted to the Cordoba guitars. I hope that helps you make your choice but please feel free to ask me any other questions you might have 👍
I don't know if you already bought a guitar, but I found this guitar and the Cordoba crossovers in the same price range to be roughly equal in terms of tone. Where the Taylor really shines (for me) is the ergonomics. The ebony fretboard, low action and beveled arm rest make this the most comfortable classical guitar I've ever played. In the end I bought a Cordoba Stage, because I the solid body nylon electric concept was so interesting, but I often wonder if I should have went with the Taylor
Thank you for the great review I have the steel string version of that guitar and it is one of my favorites go to instruments to play not to mention that sweet Taylor sound. I am very interested in the Nylon string version and look forward to buying one. I have two Yamaha Nylon string guitars CG162 and CG 142. They are a great value for little $$$ and sound better and better as they age. I'm an older beginner player and i like the fact that one can strum the nylon strings guitars softly and quietly without disturbing the neighbors in my apartment building. Thanks again M8 for the excellent review
You're welcome Christian I'm glad you liked the review and hope you found it useful 👍 The Taylor Academy series are fantastic guitars for the money and so much fun to play I can't put mine down! You'll love the 12e-N nylon string version 😊
I was deciding between this and 2 other guitars, your video helped me decide on the Academy. I wanted a cutaway which the other two did have, but decided that the arm rest benefits outweigh the cutaway's. Thanks!!
You're welcome I'm glad I helped you decide I like a cutaway as well but the arm rest on the Taylor Academy 12e-N certainly makes it very comfortable to play and I don't play above the twelve fret that much anyway. Also I think the non-cutaway full body shape actually has a slighter fuller sound
I play bass, but I am trying to get into acoustic guitar. Originally I was looking at Takamine's, but your review of this guitar has motivated me to take a harder look at Taylor guitars
Taylor Guitars also make an acoustic bass you might be interested in Here's a link to the full range of acoustic guitars at Taylor www.taylorguitars.com/guitars/acoustic
Superb review Alan, really helpful to get that visual on body size - it looks very similar in construction to the gs mini that I have (bowed back, pick up system) and I like the bevel edge on the top. I’ve been really happy with the Taylor mini, great action, tuning stability and so this guitar looks a great option. Also impressed with how well it sounds unplugged - great to hear how it sounds amplified too. Thanks for posting this 👌
You're welcome Andy I'm glad you found my Taylor Academy 12e-N Nylon String review useful. It's a beautiful guitar and so comfortable to play I love it! 😊
Hi Alan, Thanks for the review. I am looking into getting a nylon string guitar. As a steel string player the narrower nut width is very appealing. I am just wondering whether the spruce top is a good choice instead of a cedar top. Any thoughts? Thanks!
Hi Karen I like the spruce top for its crisp bell like tones and the Sapele back and sides makes it richer but that is just my preference. A cedar top will give you a slightly warmer more classical guitar sound but (at the time of writing this comment) Taylor make all their nylon string guitars with a spruce top. If you're looking for a narrower neck with a cedar top then a Cordoba Fusion or Alhambra Crossover CS1-3 would be good choices. 😊
@@karenruby2578 I have just fitted some Knobloch Carbon Strings and they sound beautiful! You can here them here: ua-cam.com/video/rbOT-b7gAoA/v-deo.html
Yes the carbon strings with the spruce top are a great combination All of the Taylor Nylon String guitars are actually fitted with the D'Addario EX46FF High Tension Carbon Strings from the factory Here's what they sound like: ua-cam.com/video/XJeiJxTbT_s/v-deo.html
Is this like playing a classical guitar please? ie highish action. Or is it set up more like a normal steel strung acoustic of the same quality with low action, but just sounds like a classical? Thanks and excellent video
Hi Ian. The action is slightly higher than an acoustic guitar to allow for the lower tension of nylon strings without fret buzz but definately lower than a standard classical guitar and the nut width is also narrower at 48mm instead of the normal 52mm of a standard classical guitar so it's really easy to play. Apart from that it's just like a classical guitar just much easier to play and perfect for anyone who is used to playing acoustic guitar but would like to have a nylon guitar in their collection 👍
@@AlanRoyHocking thanks very much indeed for the reply Alan. Great information. It would seem like they are a kind of hybrid then similar to some of the Cordoba guitars? I have a classical guitar already but like the idea of playing modern material on nylon. This might fit the bill. Cheers
Hi David, absolutely no issues with the Taylor Academy 12e-N after a year of daily playing and in fact it's actually opening up and sounding even nicer now. No problems with fret wear or anything else.
Lovely guitar Alan nice acoustic tone but I might be a bit biased but I prefer the sound from your ovation just my opinion from what I'm hearing with my headphones on I have sent you a another comment on another one of your videos about the ovation thanks keep up the good work
Thanks for your comments and feedback Robert I appreciate it They're both very different guitars each with their own personalities, feel and tone I don't actually have a favorite it really depends on what style of music I'm playing I tend to use my Taylor Academy 12e-N Nylon String for classical and fingerstyle and it's great for small intimate solo gigs like coffee shops or weddings and my Ovation Celebrity has been with me for over 30 years now working solo, duos and larger rock and country music venues. I love them both 😊
Nice review! I do have another question about set up. I have a pet peave about having the first string too close to the edge of the fingerboard. I like plenty of bleed there so when under pressure the first string doesn't pull off the side of the finferboard. Also what is the scale length? Thanks. Pretty tune!!!
It looks like a nice guitar Alan, it certainly looks like you have carried out your research well. I remember going to the local guitar shop, I was thinking about buying a Martin or Taylor. I actually ended up with a Takamine. The reason being that I preferred it for playability, I would have preferred to purchase an American guitar, however, it was the playability fact for me.
Each guitar is different and you have to choose the one that feels right to you I played a lot of different guitars before finally deciding on the Taylor Academy 12e N because it just felt like an extension to my body :)
@@AlanRoyHocking I hear you on the first sentence Alan, I have picked up some guitars in the past and actually wonder how people play them at all! It's really nice when you are investing in instrument be able to have something in your mind that you really like. It must be quite a privilege to play different types of guitar and then decide on the guitar you want to purchase. Do you ever play electric guitar Alan?
@@roybrettononline I've played some very expensive guitars and just didn't like them at all I think choosing the right guitar is a very personal thing I do play electric guitar, bass and piano but I prefer acoustic fingerstyle guitar the most
@@AlanRoyHocking That is very interesting Alan, it just shows how personal choice has to be. There was a point in my life when I always wanted a Gibson SG, I have never played one properly. I think I may have been disappointed as I don't think I was going to sound like Angus Young! It's such a gift to be able to play multiple instruments. My late father was a good musician (mainly piano, but he also played the organ, a bit of violin and piano accordion) and I had the opportunity as a child to take up piano lessons. Very foolishly, I didn't! It would have been a great opportunity, sometimes we just don't see things when we are young.
@@roybrettononline I always wanted a Martin until I played a few and whilst they are fantastic guitars and there's nothing that sounds like a Martin guitar I personally prefer the sound and playability of Taylor guitars they're in a world of their own in my opinion Yes music is a universal language and gift that should be shared whenever possible I'm completely self taught and after playing professionally all my life I've finally started taking guitar lessons at 62! :D
Hi Seb, You can play flamenco on the Taylor Academy 12e-N Nylon String Guitar but it doesn't sound as good as a proper flamenco guitar because flamenco guitars are much lighter, thinner and built with different tone woods that give them a brighter, crisper flamenco sound.
Thank you Schalk and yes I researched and played a lot of Taylor Guitars before finally deciding to get the Academy 12e-N it ticked all the boxes for me and I'm absolutely in love with it! :)
@@AlanRoyHocking I got myself the Ibanez S2170FW S Prestige series guitar and I bought it more for the looks than anything else. One of the most beautiful guitars I have ever seen. :) It has a poplar burl top.
Ibanez make some great guitars. I have to say I have never brought a guitar just on looks I have to play them and they have to feel right Taylor make some beautiful looking guitars but the only one that felt right was the Academy 12e N and I actually like the very clean simple look it has. I must say the built-in arm rest makes it one of the most comfortable guitars I've ever played :)
Ah okay Michael thanks for pointing that out. It's showing up perfectly on my screen and I've tested it on various sizes of screen from my 65" television right down to my mobile phone
can you please answer 1 question to solve my big problem? (I have shortlisted 4 guitars) depending on the availability in my country and in my budget range which are cordoba c7 paco, Alhambra 4f, Alhambra 4p and taylor A12 N. my taste is more flamenco and fingerstyle and occasionally classical but I'm unable to decide where to start as 1 of these will be my first classical guitar. please help if you can. thanks in advance.
Hi Jaidev, if you're going to be playing mostly flamenco guitar then I would recommend the Alhambra F7 as it's the only one that's specifically built for flamenco. The Alhambra 4p and the Cordoba C7 are both classical guitars and the Taylor Academy 12e-N is a crossover nylon string guitar built for acoustic guitar players who would like a nylon string guitar that feels and plays more like an acoustic guitar. They are all great guitars and excellent value for the money so I would really suggest that you play them all before choosing.
@@AlanRoyHocking alright, thanks for your wise and quick reply, unfortunately F7 is not available in my country, anyhow ill do some more research to find it over here. thanks again.
**** PLEASE NOTE THERE IS AN HD VERSION OF THIS REVIEW WITH BETTER QUALITY VIDEO AND ENHANCED AUDIO HERE: ua-cam.com/video/3dyvsyMf5uM/v-deo.html ****
im strongly considering this for my first nylon. Im just afraid of getting a sound thats too "plasticky" i really want that warm and woody tone. i feel like this is a good choice for the price. I was advised to get a cordoba but i feel like theyre more plasticky than these.
Hi, I can only offer my personal opinion and after trying some Cordoba classical and crossover nylon string guitars (which are fantastic guitars and great value for the money) I decided to buy the Taylor Academy 12e-N because not only did it have a much better tone and projection but with the built in arm rest it was much more comfortable to play.
That said the Taylor Academy 12e-N does come factory fitted with D'addario Pro-Arte EJ46FF High Tension Carbon Strings which are much brighter strings anyway and definitely not "plasticky" sounding as the normal standard nylon strings fitted to the Cordoba guitars.
I hope that helps you make your choice but please feel free to ask me any other questions you might have 👍
I don't know if you already bought a guitar, but I found this guitar and the Cordoba crossovers in the same price range to be roughly equal in terms of tone. Where the Taylor really shines (for me) is the ergonomics. The ebony fretboard, low action and beveled arm rest make this the most comfortable classical guitar I've ever played.
In the end I bought a Cordoba Stage, because I the solid body nylon electric concept was so interesting, but I often wonder if I should have went with the Taylor
Thanks for your comment Materva I appreciate it 👍
Thank you for the great review
I have the steel string version of that guitar and it is one of my favorites go to instruments to play not to mention that sweet Taylor sound.
I am very interested in the Nylon string version and look forward to buying one.
I have two Yamaha Nylon string guitars CG162 and CG 142. They are a great value for little $$$ and sound better and better as they age.
I'm an older beginner player and i like the fact that one can strum the nylon strings guitars softly and quietly without disturbing the neighbors in my apartment building.
Thanks again M8 for the excellent review
You're welcome Christian I'm glad you liked the review and hope you found it useful 👍
The Taylor Academy series are fantastic guitars for the money and so much fun to play I can't put mine down! You'll love the 12e-N nylon string version 😊
I was deciding between this and 2 other guitars, your video helped me decide on the Academy. I wanted a cutaway which the other two did have, but decided that the arm rest benefits outweigh the cutaway's. Thanks!!
You're welcome I'm glad I helped you decide
I like a cutaway as well but the arm rest on the Taylor Academy 12e-N certainly makes it very comfortable to play and I don't play above the twelve fret that much anyway.
Also I think the non-cutaway full body shape actually has a slighter fuller sound
I play bass, but I am trying to get into acoustic guitar. Originally I was looking at Takamine's, but your review of this guitar has motivated me to take a harder look at Taylor guitars
Taylor Guitars also make an acoustic bass you might be interested in
Here's a link to the full range of acoustic guitars at Taylor www.taylorguitars.com/guitars/acoustic
Superb review Alan, really helpful to get that visual on body size - it looks very similar in construction to the gs mini that I have (bowed back, pick up system) and I like the bevel edge on the top. I’ve been really happy with the Taylor mini, great action, tuning stability and so this guitar looks a great option. Also impressed with how well it sounds unplugged - great to hear how it sounds amplified too. Thanks for posting this 👌
You're welcome Andy I'm glad you found my Taylor Academy 12e-N Nylon String review useful.
It's a beautiful guitar and so comfortable to play I love it! 😊
Thanks for this great review! Keep on rockin'
Thank you Frankie I'm glad you liked the video and hope you found it useful 😊
Great Review! Thanks for posting.
You're welcome DJ glad you liked it 😊
Beautiful Sounding Guitar
Yes, my daily player
As long as you are happy with the guitar, it does not matter how it sounds or looks. The best guitar in the world is always the one you prefer...
Absolutely! 👍
Great demonstration. Thanks
You're welcome Stuart hope you found it useful 😊
Hi Alan, Thanks for the review. I am looking into getting a nylon string guitar. As a steel string player the narrower nut width is very appealing. I am just wondering whether the spruce top is a good choice instead of a cedar top. Any thoughts? Thanks!
Hi Karen
I like the spruce top for its crisp bell like tones and the Sapele back and sides makes it richer but that is just my preference.
A cedar top will give you a slightly warmer more classical guitar sound but (at the time of writing this comment) Taylor make all their nylon string guitars with a spruce top.
If you're looking for a narrower neck with a cedar top then a Cordoba Fusion or Alhambra Crossover CS1-3 would be good choices. 😊
Alan Roy Hocking Thanks. Spruce top with nylon strings seem interesting.
@@karenruby2578 I have just fitted some Knobloch Carbon Strings and they sound beautiful!
You can here them here: ua-cam.com/video/rbOT-b7gAoA/v-deo.html
Alan Roy Hocking sounds great! Thanks.
Yes the carbon strings with the spruce top are a great combination
All of the Taylor Nylon String guitars are actually fitted with the D'Addario EX46FF High Tension Carbon Strings from the factory
Here's what they sound like: ua-cam.com/video/XJeiJxTbT_s/v-deo.html
Is this like playing a classical guitar please? ie highish action. Or is it set up more like a normal steel strung acoustic of the same quality with low action, but just sounds like a classical? Thanks and excellent video
Hi Ian. The action is slightly higher than an acoustic guitar to allow for the lower tension of nylon strings without fret buzz but definately lower than a standard classical guitar and the nut width is also narrower at 48mm instead of the normal 52mm of a standard classical guitar so it's really easy to play.
Apart from that it's just like a classical guitar just much easier to play and perfect for anyone who is used to playing acoustic guitar but would like to have a nylon guitar in their collection 👍
@@AlanRoyHocking thanks very much indeed for the reply Alan. Great information. It would seem like they are a kind of hybrid then similar to some of the Cordoba guitars?
I have a classical guitar already but like the idea of playing modern material on nylon. This might fit the bill. Cheers
You're welcome anytime and yes it's definitely what would be classed as a hybrid nylon string guitar 👍
After a year have you had any issues.
Three of my gs mini frets have worn badly in a year. I am thinking about buying a 12e-n. Great review thanks
Hi David, absolutely no issues with the Taylor Academy 12e-N after a year of daily playing and in fact it's actually opening up and sounding even nicer now.
No problems with fret wear or anything else.
Lovely guitar Alan nice acoustic tone but I might be a bit biased but I prefer the sound from your ovation just my opinion from what I'm hearing with my headphones on I have sent you a another comment on another one of your videos about the ovation thanks keep up the good work
Thanks for your comments and feedback Robert I appreciate it
They're both very different guitars each with their own personalities, feel and tone
I don't actually have a favorite it really depends on what style of music I'm playing
I tend to use my Taylor Academy 12e-N Nylon String for classical and fingerstyle and it's great for small intimate solo gigs like coffee shops or weddings and my Ovation Celebrity has been with me for over 30 years now working solo, duos and larger rock and country music venues.
I love them both 😊
Nice review! I do have another question about set up. I have a pet peave about having the first string too close to the edge of the fingerboard. I like plenty of bleed there so when under pressure the first string doesn't pull off the side of the finferboard. Also what is the scale length? Thanks. Pretty tune!!!
First string is 3 mm from edge of fingerboard at first fret and 5 mm from edge at 12th fret. Scale length is 650 mm nut width 48 mm
@@AlanRoyHocking Perfect! Thanks so much for rhat info Helpful! 👀
You're welcome David glad to help 😊
It looks like a nice guitar Alan, it certainly looks like you have carried out your research well. I remember going to the local guitar shop, I was thinking about buying a Martin or Taylor. I actually ended up with a Takamine. The reason being that I preferred it for playability, I would have preferred to purchase an American guitar, however, it was the playability fact for me.
Each guitar is different and you have to choose the one that feels right to you
I played a lot of different guitars before finally deciding on the Taylor Academy 12e N because it just felt like an extension to my body :)
@@AlanRoyHocking I hear you on the first sentence Alan, I have picked up some guitars in the past and actually wonder how people play them at all!
It's really nice when you are investing in instrument be able to have something in your mind that you really like. It must be quite a privilege to play different types of guitar and then decide on the guitar you want to purchase. Do you ever play electric guitar Alan?
@@roybrettononline I've played some very expensive guitars and just didn't like them at all
I think choosing the right guitar is a very personal thing
I do play electric guitar, bass and piano but I prefer acoustic fingerstyle guitar the most
@@AlanRoyHocking That is very interesting Alan, it just shows how personal choice has to be. There was a point in my life when I always wanted a Gibson SG, I have never played one properly. I think I may have been disappointed as I don't think I was going to sound like Angus Young!
It's such a gift to be able to play multiple instruments. My late father was a good musician (mainly piano, but he also played the organ, a bit of violin and piano accordion) and I had the opportunity as a child to take up piano lessons. Very foolishly, I didn't! It would have been a great opportunity, sometimes we just don't see things when we are young.
@@roybrettononline I always wanted a Martin until I played a few and whilst they are fantastic guitars and there's nothing that sounds like a Martin guitar I personally prefer the sound and playability of Taylor guitars they're in a world of their own in my opinion
Yes music is a universal language and gift that should be shared whenever possible
I'm completely self taught and after playing professionally all my life I've finally started taking guitar lessons at 62! :D
is it ok for flamenco style of playing ?
Hi Seb,
You can play flamenco on the Taylor Academy 12e-N Nylon String Guitar but it doesn't sound as good as a proper flamenco guitar because flamenco guitars are much lighter, thinner and built with different tone woods that give them a brighter, crisper flamenco sound.
At this age you are playing guitar it is very pleasant to see playing guitar...☺️😍❤️
Thank you Happy I'm glad you liked it 😊
can't see the guitar you are holding it very low.
I show the whole guitar in detail throughout the video
What a beautiful guitar and you have certainly done your research on this guitar lol! Enjoy your Taylor, Alan!
Thank you Schalk and yes I researched and played a lot of Taylor Guitars before finally deciding to get the Academy 12e-N it ticked all the boxes for me and I'm absolutely in love with it! :)
@@AlanRoyHocking I got myself the Ibanez S2170FW S Prestige series guitar and I bought it more for the looks than anything else. One of the most beautiful guitars I have ever seen. :) It has a poplar burl top.
Ibanez make some great guitars.
I have to say I have never brought a guitar just on looks I have to play them and they have to feel right
Taylor make some beautiful looking guitars but the only one that felt right was the Academy 12e N and I actually like the very clean simple look it has.
I must say the built-in arm rest makes it one of the most comfortable guitars I've ever played :)
can this guitar be installed the steel string also ?
Hi Vincent. No you should never put steel strings on a guitar that is built for nylon strings as the tension would be too much and damage the guitar
@@AlanRoyHocking thank you Alan, it is useful information for me. have a good day.
@@vincentli2688 You're welcome anytime Vincent 👍
I see you fine, but I don't see the guitar with your high camera angle.
Ah okay Michael thanks for pointing that out.
It's showing up perfectly on my screen and I've tested it on various sizes of screen from my 65" television right down to my mobile phone
can you please answer 1 question to solve my big problem? (I have shortlisted 4 guitars) depending on the availability in my country and in my budget range which are cordoba c7 paco, Alhambra 4f, Alhambra 4p and taylor A12 N. my taste is more flamenco and fingerstyle and occasionally classical but I'm unable to decide where to start as 1 of these will be my first classical guitar. please help if you can. thanks in advance.
Hi Jaidev, if you're going to be playing mostly flamenco guitar then I would recommend the Alhambra F7 as it's the only one that's specifically built for flamenco. The Alhambra 4p and the Cordoba C7 are both classical guitars and the Taylor Academy 12e-N is a crossover nylon string guitar built for acoustic guitar players who would like a nylon string guitar that feels and plays more like an acoustic guitar.
They are all great guitars and excellent value for the money so I would really suggest that you play them all before choosing.
@@AlanRoyHocking alright, thanks for your wise and quick reply, unfortunately F7 is not available in my country, anyhow ill do some more research to find it over here. thanks again.
You're welcome, let me know how you get on 👍
Thanks
You're welcome David I hope you found Taylor Academy 12e-N Nylon String Guitar Review helpful 😊
Just hooked one of these for 350 Canadian brand new.
Wow that was a steal! 😊
What a guy..350...
Great
Thanks 😊
🤗🎸
😊