If you’ve owned a Taylor with an Expression System (ES), you probably know the story: great guitar, disappointing electronics.
Many players describe their ES tone as compressed, uneven, or harsh — especially when amplified. Others fight feedback, inconsistent output, or tone that changes from amp to amp.
That frustration is exactly why we built the Go Acoustic Audio ES Replacement System — a direct, drop-in upgrade that brings back the natural resonance, clarity, and feel your Taylor was designed to have.
But since Taylor changed the ES design several times over the years, one of the most common questions we hear is:
“Will it fit my guitar?”
Below you’ll find everything you need to know about compatibility, installation, and how to handle action or battery box differences on older models.
Compatibility Overview
Our ES Replacement System fits nearly all versions of the Taylor Expression System. Use the chart below to identify your model and see any installation notes.
| Taylor System | Years / Models | Battery Type | Notes | Fitment |
| ES1.1 | 2003–2006 | AA battery box | Requires our AA Adapter Kit (see below). Removing the original top sensors is typically non-reversible. | ✔️ Yes (with adapter) |
| ES1.2 | 2007–2009 | 9V battery box, fused string ground | Older guitars may need setup attention due to age; see “Action & Neck Reset” below. | ✔️ Yes |
| ES1.3 | 2010–2013 | 9V battery box, fused string ground | Older guitars may need setup attention due to age; see “Action & Neck Reset.” | ✔️ Yes |
| ES2 | 2014+ | 9V battery box | Direct drop-in fit. | ✔️ Yes |
| ES-T | 2007–2016 100 & 200 Series | 9V battery box | Fits most models; older instruments may need setup attention. | ✔️ Yes |
| ES-N | Nylon-string models | 9V battery box | Fits all Taylor nylon-string ES models. | ✔️ Yes |
Not compatible with the ES Replacement System (use PreSonic where noted):
- ESB1.1 / ESB1.2 (onboard tuner style) – different architecture.
- Fishman Prefix Pro series → Use our PreSonic side-mount system (drop-in for Prefix Pro models).
- Fishman Prefix / Prefix Plus (older, larger cutout) – not supported by PreSonic at this time.
For Early ES1.1 Guitars (2003–2006): The AA Adapter Kit
The first-generation ES1.1 used two AA batteries, while later versions switched to a 9 V design (ES1.2+). The 9 V box is physically larger, so it can’t drop into the same opening without re-routing the body.
Our system requires 9 V power, so for these early guitars we developed the AA Adapter Kit — a custom mounting plate that installs directly into the original AA battery-box cutout.
It includes:
- A strap-jack output mounted in the plate
- A cable to connect the jack to the preamp (same as ES1.2+)
- A battery cable and bag to hold a 9 V inside the body (near the soundhole)
This keeps your guitar’s exterior original, avoids woodwork, and is fully DIY-friendly.
While an external 9 V box looks more traditional, the adapter kit is faster, cheaper, and reversible.
Prefer an external 9 V box?
We can install a 9 V battery box as a shop service (this is not a DIY job). If you’d rather avoid internal battery access, contact us about this option.
Action & Neck Reset on Older Guitars
Our Saddle-Pickup is built to the exact dimensions of the original Taylor factory saddle, so if your saddle hasn’t been altered, your action will remain exactly the same after installation.
If you install the ES Replacement System and the action feels too high or too low, that means the neck angle has shifted with age, not that the pickup changed anything.
Taylor’s official fix for this is a neck reset using shims, which restores the neck angle to factory spec without modifying the saddle or bridge.
For original owners, Taylor performs neck resets at no charge through authorized service centers, and the procedure is simple for any qualified luthier.
- In short: If your action changes after installation, your guitar needs a neck reset, not a new saddle.
- Alternative: If you can’t reach a Taylor service center, contact us — we can provide a custom saddle modification matched to your guitar’s current geometry.
- Do not attempt DIY saddle shaping. The Saddle-Pickup contains precision elements that can be easily damaged by sanding or filing.
Installation Time & Difficulty
Our systems are built for musicians, not repair shops.
With the included tools and online guide, installation is straightforward:
- First-time DIY installer: typically 1–3 hours
- Second install: often under 1 hour
We provide everything you need — and we’re available by phone or email if you have questions along the way.
Quick Reference: Which Product to Choose
- Taylor ES / ES2 / ES-T / ES-N: → ES Replacement System (this post)
- Fishman Prefix Pro series (side-mount): → PreSonic (drop-in replacement)
- Fishman Prefix / Prefix Plus (older, larger panel): → Not currently supported
Final Notes
If you’ve been living with the quirks of the Taylor ES system, there’s finally a direct upgrade that delivers what your guitar is capable of — clear tone, dynamic response, and feedback-free performance.
From the earliest ES1 to the latest ES2, the Go Acoustic Audio ES Replacement System gives your Taylor the sound it deserves.
Not sure which version you have?
Send us your guitar model and a quick photo of the battery box and control layout, and we’ll confirm compatibility before you order.
