Taylor: GS Mini

Today was a good day because I managed to squeeze in a little time in the evening to try Taylor's GS Mini seen here. It's a scaled-down version of Taylor's Grand Symphony model, hence the 'Mini' inclusion. To start things off, let's be clear that the GS mini is by no means a mini guitar. The real minis are Taylor's Baby models which are even more reduced in dimensions. The GSM represents Taylor's take on a parlour model albeit sporting a GS outline which defies the parlour definition by virtue of body width.

In the acoustic realm, Taylor's construction, fit & finish are the very definition of the brand's philosophy. The GSM, upon handling, is of immaculate construction despite being a Mexican. There is no faulting the fit & finish either; it's like anomalies & the Taylor name were never meant to be paired (ever). What seemed to be plain features in this guitar became glorified specs upon handling. We've come across too many acoustics featuring solid spruce tops & an ebony fretboard before but this one screams Taylor in terms of feel. A little more on the mahogany neck- it sports a subtle V profile at the nut area before rounding off towards the 14th fret. The shred dweebs would love this guitar because it feels more electric than acoustic. Instead of anticipating lethargy during play, one would feel more at home with such an accommodating neck profile, it just begs to be played. 

Tone wise, do not expect an auditorium type, bass-rich tone because it's not one to begin with. However, due to that body width, there is a healthy balance of the lower & mid frequencies despite manifesting that spruce brightness especially from the unwound strings. This guitar has lots of song writing potential on board due to its rich chord manifestations. 

All in all, the GS Mini is a winner in terms of the Taylor expectations. Some of us would question the body outline as it breeds a little discomfort for a guitar of this nature. Since it's not manifesting an auditorium type tone, why employ the design in the first place? The solid body players would be at home with this guitar because the neck is incredibly playable.  

Rating: 85%

Taylor: GS Mini

Price: $799

Availability: Swee Lee Co.