Taylor CPSM Chris Proctor Signature Gloss Natural 2000 Electro-Acoustic Guitar

This is a very rare Taylor CPSM Chris Proctor Signature electro-acoustic guitar in Gloss Natural finish. Number 7 of a limited run of just 100 instruments, this guitar was made in the year 2000 as a collaboration between Taylor & the legendary fingerstyle player Chris Proctor. As a result, the instrument is clearly focussed on fingerstyle, with a nut width of 1.875” for wide string spacing as well as a nicely compact Grand Concert body size which provides excellent tonal balance and player comfort.

An all-solid construction is employed and comprises a AAA Engelmann Spruce top, AAA Indian Rosewood back and sides, Mahogany neck & 20 fret Ebony fingerboard with matching bridge. The body is double bound in Mahogany, whilst the top is adorned with multi-stripe purfling & Abalone rosette. The headstock is overlaid with Rosewood, with the logo inlaid in MOP. The fret markers are jumbo-sized for easy legibility whilst playing, and the tuning machines are a handsome Gold & Ebony button Schaller affair. An innovative pickup & preamp system is installed, and features a traditional undersaddle piezo pickup alongside a rare earth magnetic humbucker mounted in the sound hole. These are wired to an on-board Taylor/Fishman preamp which allows you to blend the pickups in any combination, as well as offering extensive EQ controls.

The Mahogany neck plays exceptionally well. Of course with such a wide profile, the neck does feel substantial in the hand. However the depth is rather shallow, meaning that tricky voicings and big stretches are a breeze. After 25 years of gentle use, the satin finish to the rear of the neck has worn to a semi-gloss. This is particularly pleasant under the thumb, assisting with smooth navigation of the 25.5” scale. The Ebony of the fingerboard is supremely luxurious, with a tight grain and deep dark appearance which serves as a smooth & durable playing surface. The Florentine cutaway adds an unmistakable aesthetic character to the instrument whilst also improving access to the upper register.

The acoustic voice of the Taylor CPSM is beautiful. Lows are gentle without being too soft, mids are open & clear, whilst the top end is sparkly & bright, adding a distinct character to the instrument which is undeniably beautiful. Despite it’s small stature, the body does produce plenty of volume & a wide dynamic range which feels sensitive to the player’s touch. The hybrid pickup & preamp system faithfully conveys the acoustic voice of the instrument whilst offering ample on-board control for use in live & recording situations. A rare & interesting guitar from Taylor which is incredibly well preserved at 25 years old.