Sound Pure's Take

The Waterloo WL-14L is a vintage-inspired acoustic centered around its ladder bracing, which gives it a dry, open tone with a strong midrange “honk.” This construction creates a raw, woody character with a quick, punchy response that works especially well for fingerstyle blues and roots styles. The spruce top and mahogany body keep the sound direct and focused, while the short scale adds a comfortable, relaxed feel. Paired with the pronounced V neck, it leans fully into that old-school vibe. Gritty, immediate, and full of personality, this WL-14L delivers a distinctly traditional sound.

From Collings Guitars

The WL-14 is the flagship model of the Waterloo guitar line and the inspiration that started it all. Keeping true to the design and style of the era, the WL-14 is available in "ladder" bracing (L) as well as "X" bracing (X). The ladder bracing option provides woody and open tone, with midrange honk that's perfect for fingerstyle blues. The "X" braced version retains tighter focus and balance across the tonal range.

 

There are two different neck profiles available for the WL-14, with the standard being a sizable, vintage-inspired neck with a prominent "V" shape. For those who prefer more moderately sized necks, an alternate lower-profile option is available by request. All WL-14 models include an adjustable truss rod for convenient setup adjustment and flexibility. Hardshell TKL case included.

 

All Waterloo models are handmade in Austin, Texas.

Top: Solid spruce

Back/Sides: Solid mahogany

Color: Vintage-style Sunburst or Jet Black

Binding: Ivoroid bound top and soundhole

Bridge Pins: Ebony

Tuners: Golden Age Restoration
Bracing: Ladder
Pickguard: Tigerstripe celluloid
Body Finish: Semi-gloss nitrocellulose lacquer
Neck: Solid mahogany
Fingerboard: Indian rosewood
Bridge: Ebony with 2 3/8" spacing
Nut: 1 3/4" ebony nut
Saddle: Bone drop-in
Neck Support: Adjustable truss rod
Fingerboard Inlays: 6mm acrylic dots
Neck Profile: Prominent "V" shape
Logo: Stenciled Waterloo
Scale Length: 24 7/8"
Fret Wire: Medium 18% nickel-silver
Fingerboard Radius: 12"
Body Width: 14 3/4"
Body Length: 19 1/4"
Body Depth: 4 1/4"
Scale Length: 24 7/8"
Nut Width: 1 3/4"
Saddle Spacing: 2 3/8"
Recommended Strings: D'Addario EJ16 (.012"-.053")
Case: Hardshell
Weight: 3lbs 3oz

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