Here's something you haven't seen before: a super rare prototype Taylor Crosstone. Your eyes may think it's the bridge between a Taylor T5z and a Powers Electric A-Type, and they aren't deceiving you. But it's much more than that.
Built in 2021 but never released, less than 50 of the Crosstone were made. Only a few were done in this super cool Blacktop finish. We recently were given the opportunity to get one by Taylor, and were thrilled to get it. At for this moment, it's the only one available here in America.
The Taylor Crosstone is a unique and important prototype that illustrates the progression of hybrid electric-acoustic guitar design by Andy Powers, Master Designer and CEO of Taylor Guitars. Developed as a variation of the Taylor T5z, this model incorporates foundational design aspects that later shaped both the Powers Electric A-Type and the updated Taylor T5z models.
This particular version features a body constructed of Urban Ash (back & sides) and Big Leaf Maple (top). The result is a resonant, sweet sounding guitar that can cut through the mix without sounding harsh. The guitar features a custom Sitka spruce bracing pattern designed to enhance the guitar’s acoustic qualities. This internal structure delivers increased dynamic range, stronger projection, and a more nuanced, expressive tonal response. The chambered body reduces the guitar’s weight while simultaneously improving its resonance and sustain.
The Neo-Tropical Mahogany neck, left unfinished, features the classic T5 Carve profile, and its 24 7/8" scale length offers a comfortable, seamless playing experience suited for both electric and acoustic musicians. It's a very smooth feeling guitar and would be easy to play for hours on end. This enhanced by the 12" radius on the Crelicam Ebony fretboard. The specs of the neck are rounded out by 21 jumbo frets, a 1 11/16" TUSQ nut, a Micarta saddle and Crelicam Ebony bridge. You get precise intonation and consistent tonal transmission. Taylor tuners providing dependable and accurate tuning stability.
