In an exciting collaboration set to inspire musicians everywhere, Taylor Guitars has partnered with Grammy-winning artist Jacob Collier to introduce the Jacob Collier Signature Model. This remarkable guitar, crafted entirely from all-koa wood, comes in two variants: a distinctive 5-string model inspired by Jacob’s custom guitar and a traditional 6-string version. Together, they embody Collier’s innovative musical vision, making it accessible to guitarists globally.
The 5-string model showcases Jacob’s unique tuning preference of DAEAD, adding a creative twist to the standard 6-string arrangement. By tuning the lower strings in fourths and the higher ones in fifths, this setup unlocks new harmonic possibilities for players. For those who prefer a more conventional tuning, the 6-string version will also be available, offering a familiar feel alongside exceptional craftsmanship.
Jacob’s journey with Taylor began when he requested a custom 5-string guitar several years ago, which has since become integral to his performances and songwriting. “I dreamed of this guitar tuning for many, many years before [the guitar] existed,” Jacob reflects. “One day, I asked Taylor, ‘How would you feel about putting five strings on a six-string guitar neck, tuned in a very particular way, with exactly the same range as a normal guitar, but just with a different set of intervals?’ They agreed, which changed my whole life.”
Now, this signature tuning is available to guitarists eager to venture into new sonic realms. The 5-string model’s unique tuning blends open strings and intervals, expanding the range of possibilities and creating a distinct sound that Jacob has popularized through his music.
While Jacob Collier is celebrated for his vibrant, colorful visuals, he opted for a more understated, natural aesthetic for his signature models. These guitars are constructed from Taylor’s Select-grade Hawaiian koa, recognized for its rich, natural hue and variations. Each instrument is completely unique due to the natural marbling of the West African ebony used for the fretboard, bridge, and headstock overlay. This distinctive visual aspect ensures that every guitar possesses its own personality and character.
Enhancing the guitar’s individuality is a custom truss rod cover featuring Jacob’s personal logo, a Jacob Collier Signature label inside the guitar, and a tailored guitar strap emblazoned with his logo. These thoughtful details reflect Collier’s personal touch while maintaining a clean design that highlights the wood’s natural beauty.
Beyond its stunning design, the Jacob Collier Signature Model is engineered for performance. The guitar features LR Baggs Element VTC acoustic electronics, delivering clear, rich amplification with user-friendly volume and tone controls discreetly hidden inside the soundhole. The inclusion of Gotoh 510 tuners ensures precise tuning stability, whether players are exploring Jacob’s distinctive 5-string tuning or opting for the traditional 6-string setup.
Each guitar is packaged in Taylor’s lightweight yet robust AeroCase, providing both protection and portability for musicians on the move. This combination of premium craftsmanship and player-focused features makes these signature models ideal for live performances and studio sessions alike.
The creative mind behind these signature models is Taylor’s Chief Guitar Designer, Andy Powers, who collaborated closely with Jacob to create the perfect instrument. Powers had previously built Jacob’s original 5-string guitar, and this partnership naturally evolved from that collaboration. “Jacob is a one-of-a-kind musician,” says Powers. “When he approached us with the idea of this tuning and string arrangement, it made musical sense. It’s been a joy to create this instrument, and I’m thrilled for other musicians to experience the same inspiration.”
Powers believes the guitar’s innovative setup will attract a wide range of players, from novices to seasoned professionals. “What I love is that this configuration makes the acoustic guitar accessible for entry-level players while providing an inspiring new sonic palette for experienced musicians,” he adds.
For those eager to acquire one of these exclusive instruments, Taylor Guitars will produce a limited quantity for 2024. Only 25 units of each model—5-string and 6-string—will be manufactured for the U.S., UK, and European markets. Orders placed before October 18 will receive priority for holiday delivery, while subsequent orders will be fulfilled in Q1 2025.
This limited production, combined with the guitar’s exceptional craftsmanship, makes the Jacob Collier Signature Model a must-have for fans of his music and guitar enthusiasts seeking something truly special.
The Jacob Collier Signature Model from Taylor Guitars exemplifies the creative collaboration between two musical innovators. With its unique 5-string configuration, premium all-koa construction, and meticulous design elements, this guitar opens new creative avenues for players. Whether you’re intrigued by Jacob’s signature tuning or prefer the classic 6-string setup, these models offer an unparalleled blend of craftsmanship, playability, and innovation. This partnership heralds a new chapter in acoustic guitar design—one poised to inspire musicians worldwide.
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