Move Over Bog Oak!
Wow.
In the ever-evolving world of acoustic guitars, few tonewoods carry as much mystique, character, and tonal brilliance as sinker redwood. Unearthed from riverbeds and reborn in the hands of skilled luthiers, this extraordinary wood has found a rightful place in the upper echelons of modern acoustic guitar building.
Here at Musicmaker, we’re privileged to house two stunning Taylor guitars that showcase this rare wood’s magic: the Taylor Builder’s Edition 814ce and the Taylor 2025 Catch Custom C12e "Harvester". But before we dive into these instruments, let’s uncover what makes sinker redwood such a tonal powerhouse.
He's got one!
What Is Sinker Redwood?
Sinker redwood comes from ancient coastal redwood trees—some well over a thousand years old—that were felled during logging operations in the late 1800s to early 1900s. Some of these logs never made it to the mills; instead, they sank to the bottom of rivers and remained preserved for generations.
What does this mean for the wood?
- Mineral Enrichment: Decades underwater led to rich mineral absorption, which darkens the wood and enhances its visual complexity—think deep russet, chocolate, and copper tones laced with dramatic grain.
- Stability & Resonance: The long submersion helps reduce internal stress in the fibres, resulting in a top that resonates with exceptional clarity and sensitivity.
Tonally, sinker redwood sits beautifully between cedar and spruce. It offers the immediate responsiveness of cedar but with more headroom and sparkle—making it perfect for fingerstylists and expressive players who crave dynamic nuance.
Taylor 814ce Builder’s Edition Sinker Redwood Top in Musicmaker
Taylor BE 814ce Sinker Redwood | Honduran
This Grand Auditorium beauty is as much a feat of comfort and precision as it is a sonic masterpiece. The pairing of sinker redwood with Honduran rosewood creates a tone profile that is lush, warm, and detailed—like wrapping your chords in velvet, then dusting them with brilliance.
Highlights:
- Sinker redwood top delivers warmth and touch-sensitivity
- Honduran rosewood adds rich bass and crystalline overtones
- V-Class bracing offers improved sustain and tuning precision
- Beveled armrest and chamfered edges for player comfort
- Silent satin finish for a sleek, luxurious feel
In your hands, it feels effortless. On stage, it sounds immense. A true workhorse for players who want sublime tone without sacrificing playability.
Available now at Musicmaker, and it’s turning heads in the showroom every single day.
Close-up of Taylor Catch Custom C12e Grand Concert Harvester #31
Taylor 2025 Catch Custom C12e “Harvester”
Sinker Redwood Top | Bocote Back & Sides | #31 of 200 Worldwide (yes, really)
This one’s a showstopper. Part of Taylor’s ultra-limited Catch series, the “Harvester” is built for those who demand rarity, sophistication, and resonance that tells a story.
With its 12-fret Grand Concert body, the Harvester offers an intimate, focused sound—perfect for articulate fingerpicking, solo pieces, and lower-volume performances.
Why it matters:
- Sinker redwood top offers a responsive, earthy warmth
- Bocote back and sides provide power, richness, and exotic visual flair
- V-Class bracing ensures purity of tone and accurate pitch
- Slotted peghead and intricate detailing ooze boutique charm
- Limited edition #31, making it a collector’s dream and a tonal treasure
There’s only one of these in Ireland, and guess what? It’s in Musicmaker’s acoustic room, waiting to be played. But probably not for long.
The 814CE Builder's Edition up close
Why Sinker Redwood Matters — And Why It’s Here to Stay
Sinker redwood represents a beautiful convergence of history, nature, and musical potential. It brings something ethereal to the table—a tactile reminder that the past can still sing, that age adds soul, and that rare doesn't mean impractical.
These guitars aren’t just conversation pieces. They’re instruments built for expression, tools for storytelling. They sound better with every note played, and they invite you to discover new dynamics in your playing.
The Harvester in all its glory!
Come Experience Them at Musicmaker
Musicmaker has been Dublin’s hub for musical inspiration since the early ’80s. When you step into our acoustic sanctuary on Exchequer Street, you’re not just browsing—you’re discovering. These two Taylors are ready to be heard, felt, and loved.
Come try them. Let the sinker redwood speak.
FAQ: Sinker Redwood & Taylor Guitars
What is sinker redwood?
Sinker redwood is old-growth redwood recovered from riverbeds, where it lay submerged for decades. It’s known for its deep colouration, stability, and warm, responsive tone.
Is sinker redwood good for acoustic guitars?
Absolutely. It blends the softness and responsiveness of cedar with the power and projection of spruce—ideal for expressive fingerstyle players.
Are Taylor guitars available with sinker redwood tops?
Yes, but they’re rare. Taylor releases limited-run and custom models featuring sinker redwood, like the Builder’s Edition 814ce and the Catch Custom C12e Grand Concert, both available at Musicmaker.
Where can I try a sinker redwood guitar in Ireland?
Right here at Musicmaker in Dublin. We’re proud to stock two of the most exciting Taylor sinker redwood models in the country. Drop in or contact us to book a play session.
Check out all our current Taylor Guitars HERE.
Got any questions about these guitars? About other guitars? About the sinking of the Lusitania?
Get in touch via the Intercom button below, we are always happy to help out.
