Along with his contemporary Tommy Emmanuel, Doyle Dykes has been carrying the torch of legendary fingerstyle pickers such as Chet Atkins and Jerry Reed. Over the years, Doyle has often relied on Taylor Guitars to get the job done. In fact, Bob Taylor once said: "If I had to pick the artist who most represented the Taylor Guitars brand and who has done the most for us, I would say Doyle Dykes. Doyle has represented Taylor Guitars to more players for more years than anyone."
In 2000, Doyle collaborated with Taylor on the Doyle Dykes Signature Model—a steel-string with a cutaway that was limited to 200 total guitars. A few years later, they collaborated on a nylon-string version of the model, but very few were ever actually made. In fact, the majority of the "NS-DDSM" Doyle Dykes Signature Nylon guitars were played and used on stage by Doyle himself.
This NS-DDSM Doyle Dykes Signature Nylon as made in 2003, and its headstock was signed by Doyle at a concert in 2009. It features a Grand Auditorium body with a Florentine cutaway, constructed from a Sitka Spruce top and gorgeous Flame Maple back and sides. For fret markers, it has the "thumbprint" half moon inlays that are a deliberate nod to Chet Atkins. It has a short 24-7/8" scale and a factory-installed LR Baggs pickup.
This 2003 NS-DDSM Doyle Dykes Signature Nylon is in excellent cosmetic condition. Signs of playwear and use are minimal, but we've done our best to show everything that sticks out in the photos. There is a subtle yellow discoloration running through the center of the back. It could be part of the wood figuring, but it also may be an effect of the guitar living much of its life in the case. Or perhaps the finish set differently on different parts of the wood. Hard to say, but it is visible with the guitar in your hands.
For a nylon-sting guitar, this '03 NS-DDSM has almost impossibly low action—like an electric guitar. Its balanced, articulate voice is a natural fit for finger-style playing, but its a versatile guitar that sounds great in a lot of applications. Plus, it's a rare Taylor model with cool appointments. It's hard not to love the White Rose inlay on the peghead. Original hardshell case included.