Is the GS Mini Taylor Right for You?
Introduction to the Taylor GS Mini
Back in February 2015, after months of relentless searching, I finally stumbled upon the guitar of my dreams. The journey to find it was no small feat—I covered a whopping 800 kilometres in a single day. But the moment I laid eyes on it, I knew the quest was worth every mile. Since then, this guitar has held the esteemed title of my favourite.
AA League of Its Own
Why, you might ask? Well, it’s not just about its sleek design or portability. It’s the sound—pure musical magic. Of course, it wouldn’t be fair to pit it against the “big” standard-sized guitars; it belongs to a different league. As a compact travel guitar, it reigns supreme, earning its spot as my guitar #1. Martin and Taylor have been crafting these “Baby” style guitars since the late ’90s, and they’ve become quite the sensation.
Pint-Sized Wonders in the Music Realm
These pint-sized wonders have carved out their niche in two major domains: travel guitars and instruments for budding musicians. Now, let’s dive into the travel guitars market, where the “Baby” guitars and the GS Mini take center stage.
Size Matters, but So Does Sound
Here’s the deal: when it comes to the GS Mini versus the “Baby” guitars, size does matter, but so does sound. The GS Mini, being a smaller, travel-sized wonder, boasts a rich, “full-size” sound that resonates with every strum. On the flip side, the “Baby” guitar falls short on the “real guitar” volume and tone—no ifs, ands, or buts.
Unveiling the Features of the Taylor GS Mini
Now, let’s break down the features of my beloved GS Mini:
Body:
- Body type: Taylor Grand Symphony Mini
- Cutaway: No
- Top wood: Solid Sitka Spruce
- Back & sides: Layered Sapele
- Bracing pattern: GS Mini With Relief Rout
- Body finish: Matte 2.0
- Orientation: Right-handed
Neck:
- Neck shape: Taylor GS Mini Profile
- Nut width: 1-11/16″ (42.8mm)
- Fingerboard: Genuine African Ebony
- Neck wood: Sapele
- Scale length: 23-1/2″
- Number of frets: 20
- Neck finish: Matte 2.0
Other
- Headstock overlay: Lexan
- Tuning machines: Chrome GS Mini with Chrome Buttons
- Bridge: Genuine African Ebony
- Saddle & nut: Micarta “Wave” Saddle; Tusq Nut
- Number of strings: 6
- Special features: Taylor New Technology Neck System
- Case: Taylor GS Mini Hard Bag
- Accessories: None
- Country of origin: Taylor Guitars Factory, Tecate, Mexico
The Fishman Pickup Twist
And here’s a delightful twist: I didn’t purchase this GS Mini brand new. No, it found its way to me through another owner who had the foresight to install a Fishman pickup with a pre-amp. That addition is the cherry on top, elevating this instrument to a whole new level.
Martin's Entry into the Travel Guitars Niche
Later Update: Martin decided to step into the same niche of the travel guitars. It represented their rival version: Dreadnought Junior.
In conclusion, my GS Mini isn’t just a guitar; it’s a symphony of memories, a testament to the lengths I’d go for the perfect strum. So, if you’re in the market for a travel companion that doesn’t compromise on sound, the GS Mini might just be your musical soulmate. Happy strumming!
