safe to use heavier strings than the stock strings?

[FinallyATaylor]

I have always assumed that it's pretty safe to use gauge 13 strings on most guitars

As I have heard someone say, the 'recommended' gauge for grand auditorium guitars is 12 and this is what they put on the guitar in the factory

I prefer heavier strings, so do you think it's ok to permanently use gauge 13 strings on my 114?

thanks

[GSMC Bob]

Unless you're using a lower tuning, I would think that would merit a call to Taylor's customer service department for a definitive answer.  Why risk it without calling them?  All of our opinions don't really mean diddly...

[FinallyATaylor]

Unless you're using a lower tuning, I would think that would merit a call to Taylor's customer service department for a definitive answer.  Why risk it without calling them?  All of our opinions don't really mean diddly...

OK thanks bob, I did not think of that

[Edward]

Yes, it's safe.  FWIW, I called the factory many years ago on this very Q and they said it's perfectly fine to load mediums (yes, 13-56) on their guitars that came with lights.  OTOH, I recall that the rep did say that with cedar-topped guitars, you should "keep an eye on it" kind of thing.  The reason they "recommend" lights on the GA and GC models is that the tops are tonally braced for 12s; not that the 13s will hurt it, but that the resultant tone is not what they designed in.  And may I also suggest you try the elixir medium-lights on your 114: my past GA and current GC body sound great with this hybrid set (better to my ear than the straight mediums) .  So yes, experiment with gauges and brands ...one of the best ways to "tailor" your Taylor

Edward

[dangrunloh]

Probably safe but Bob once wrote that heavier strings can actually reduce the volume of the guitar saying if there is too much pull on the top, it can't flex as much.  I like the Elixer light-mediums on my 414ce,  The bottom strings are heavier. The set runs 12-56.

[GSMC Bob]

I have always assumed that it's pretty safe to use gauge 13 strings on most guitars

As I have heard someone say, the 'recommended' gauge for grand auditorium guitars is 12 and this is what they put on the guitar in the factory

I prefer heavier strings, so do you think it's ok to permanently use gauge 13 strings on my 114?

thanks

I'd still check with Taylor to see if this would void your warrnty and proceed with caution.  If I recall from previous posts, weren't you already concerned about this guitar bellying at the bridge?