
( Brand: Taylor ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: LKSM ), ( Part Type: Guitar ), ( String Configuration: 12 String ), ( Model Year: 1993 ), ( Size: Full Size ), ( Dexterity: Right-handed ), ( Body Type: Jumbo ), ( Body Material: Mahogany ), ( Soundboard Style: Flat Top ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: United States )
The Taylor LKSM 12-string acoustic guitar, released in 1993, is an exceptional instrument that showcases the fusion of craftsmanship and innovation typical of Taylor Guitars. Named after its collaborator, American fingerstyle guitarist Leo Kottke, this guitar is a favorite among musicians and collectors worldwide.
Body and Construction:The LKSM is built with Taylor's renowned Solid Sitka Spruce top. The top contour allows for stronger fundamentals and superior tone with enhanced projection. The back and sides are made of layered Sapele, delivering a resonant and dynamic tonal range. The torrefied neck ensures stability in the neck and enhances the overall playability of the guitar.
Neck and Fretboard:This guitar boasts a customized neck shape, developed through Leo Kottke's collaboration with Taylor. The neck is made of Sapele, offering a balanced feel and reducing the weight of the instrument, making it comfortable to play for extended periods. The 17-inch custom-designed paduk radius fretboard ensures a smooth finger journey with 20 frets, making intricate solos and barre chords more accessible.
Hardware and Electronics:The LKSM is equipped with Taylor's proprietary Expression System 2 (ES2) pickup and pre-amp system, designed to preserve the natural tonal integrity of the guitar when amplified. Chrome Gotoh 18:1 ratio tuning machines ensure a reliable and consistent tuning stability.
Finish and Accessories:This guitar features an understated yet elegant Venetian cutaway body shape for easy access to the upper frets. It comes with a Taylor deluxe hardshell case, offering superb protection.
The Taylor LKSM 12-string guitar, with its signature Leo Kottke touches and impressive design elements, delivers a superior playing experience that catered to fingerstyle players and those who crave a balance of tone, versatility, and beauty in their instrument.
The Taylor Leo Kottke 12-string LKSM model, released in 1993, is a highly regarded instrument among guitar enthusiasts. This analysis provides a balanced view of the pros and cons to help potential buyers make an informed decision.
Pros:1. Unique tone: The 12-string configuration delivers a richer and fuller tone, making it ideal for various music genres, especially folk and alternative tunes.
2. High-quality construction: Known for their superior craftsmanship, Taylor Guitars ensures the LKSM has a solid sitka spruce top, layered sapele back and sides and a venetian cutaway, contributing to its durability and resonance.
3. Comfortable neck profile: The guitar features a compact neck for easy playability.
4. Versatility: The 12-string design offers more textures and harmonics compared to a 6-string guitar.
5. Collectible value: As a limited-edition vintage guitar model, the 1993 Taylor Leo Kottke LKSM has potential collectible worth.
Cons:1. Price: Due to its high-end craftsmanship and select materials, the guitar carries a higher price tag compared to other Taylor models or standard 12-string guitars.
2. String tension: The increased string tension from a 12-string setup can require more force to press down on the frets, requiring stronger fingers for optimal playing.
3. Size and weight: The larger body size and added strings add to the overall weight and bulkiness of the instrument, making it less compact compared to a standard 6-string guitar.
4. Limited intonation: The 12-string design can result in intonation challenges, particularly at the 12th fret.
5. Niche audience: The model caters to a specific audience, which may limit the potential resale value or availability of spare parts.
Conclusion:Considering its unique tone, high-quality craftsmanship, and classic design, the 1993 Taylor Leo Kottke LKSM guitar offers a rich musical experience. However, potential buyers should weigh the pros and cons, including additional cost, string tension, and size, against their specific playing style and preferences before making a purchase.
Recommendation:For musicians who seek a full-bodied and expressive voice, or those who enjoy playing folk, alternative, and other genre styles with rich harmonics, the 1993 Taylor Leo Kottke LKSM 12-string guitar is an impressive investment. Budget minded players or those not keen on the challenges of playing a 12-string may opt for a 6-string Taylor guitar or a less expensive 12-string model instead.