Originally Posted by: cclark1065

So, my question is, do these guitars sound better when they are plugged into an acoustic amplifier, or is the amplifier only meant to make the sound louder (like when playing in a larger room)?

Depends upon the acoustic, where you intend to play it, and purpose.

[br]Amplification is predominantly for just that purpose, but does offer the added advantage of altering tone as well as projection/volume, and ease of AI line in recording via the instrument cable output jack without requiring a mic/stand or mic-ing up.

Even in integral onboard amplification there are considerations ranging from the type of pickup/s, placement etc.

I own and play all generally [u]popular[/u] acoustic/e-acoustic options, and have a dedicated acoustic amp and portable PA to choose between for their amplification when/if required.

First is a cutaway slimline with integrated active pre-amp. This is likely similar to what you'd be buying integrated into a Taylor

Even with the smaller body, mine has gobs of volume for playing [u]acoustically only[/u] at home. If in a duo or solo commerical venue, I'd almost certainly use it amplified either via PA mixer or [u]acoustic[/u] amp. If in a multi-guitar garage band backed by a drummer and playing an acoustic in the mix for tone, e.g. Eagles, "Lyin' Eyes", obviously amplified.

[br]Advantage. Most versatile choice. Disadvantage. Costs more. That said, If you're paying for a Taylor, then cost won't be a consideration. Just buy with. You don't have to use it.

[br]Second is another smaller but full Concert bodied acoustic guitar. I use this acoustically. Gobs of volume and adequate projection for home or small venue, e.g. Coffee shop, busking.

Third and fourth options are a Dreadnought acoustic and a Classical nylon acoustic. Again, they don't need amplification for home use, nor for tone.

However, I do use passive and active sound hole pickups (I have three of both types) with the nylon and other two acoustics for recording into a looper or to PC via my AI for mixing and/or rhythm backing. When I use them with my AI, acoustic amp or PA mixer, their tonal variation adjustment is totally via those devices rather than on-board pre-amp. This type of sound hole pickup offers inexpensive amplification with all the benefits already outlined, is removable, and can be swapped fairly quickly between multiple acoustic guitars as/if required.