Taylor Gs Mini vs Full Size: Which Taylor Guitar Reigns?
Choosing the right guitar can feel like navigating a maze. Acoustic guitars especially come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each offering a unique playing experience. Today, we’re diving into a popular comparison: the Taylor GS Mini versus a full-size acoustic guitar.
The Taylor GS Mini has become a favorite for its portability and impressive sound, but how does it stack up against a traditional full-size guitar? We’ll explore the key differences in sound, playability, and overall value to help you decide which guitar is the best fit for your needs.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first instrument or a seasoned player seeking a new addition to your collection, understanding the nuances of these two guitar types is crucial. Get ready to uncover the strengths and weaknesses of both the Taylor GS Mini and the full-size guitar.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | taylor gs mini | full size |
|---|---|---|
| Body Shape | GS Mini | Various |
| Scale Length | 23.5 inches | Typically 25.5 inches |
| Overall Length | Shorter | Longer |
| Nut Width | 1 11/16 inches | Typically 1 3/4 inches |
| Number of Frets | 20 | Typically 20 |
| Wood – Top | Solid Spruce/Mahogany | Various Solid Woods |
| Wood – Back/Sides | Layered Sapele/Mahogany | Various Solid/Laminate Woods |
| Electronics (Optional) | ES2 (Optional) | ES2 or other systems (Optional) |
| Case | Included Gig Bag | Typically Hard Case |
| String Spacing at Saddle | 2 3/16 inches | Typically 2 1/8 inches |
| Playability | Easy to play, compact | Full size feel and sound |
| Portability | Excellent | Good |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Size and Portability
- Taylor Gs Mini: The GS Mini is a scaled-down acoustic guitar, making it significantly smaller and more portable than full-size guitars. This compact size makes it ideal for travel, beginners, and players who prefer a smaller instrument. However, the smaller body can impact the projection and resonance compared to a full-size guitar.
- Full Size: Full-size acoustic guitars, like the Taylor 814ce, are larger and offer a more substantial playing experience. Their size provides a fuller sound, greater projection, and more comfortable ergonomics for players with larger frames. They are less convenient to transport and store.
- Winner: GS Mini
Body Shape
- Taylor Gs Mini: The GS Mini shares a similar body shape to Taylor’s Grand Symphony (GS) models, but scaled down. This shape contributes to a balanced tone and comfortable playing experience, despite its smaller size.
- Full Size: Full-size guitars encompass a variety of body shapes, such as Dreadnought, Grand Auditorium, and Grand Concert, each impacting tone and playability. The shape influences the sound projection and comfort for the player.
- Winner: Tie
Scale Length
- Taylor Gs Mini: The GS Mini features a shorter scale length, typically around 23.5 inches. This shorter scale makes the strings feel slacker, making it easier for beginners to fret chords and bend strings.
- Full Size: Full-size guitars have a longer scale length, usually around 25.5 inches. This length contributes to a brighter tone and higher string tension, which can be preferred by experienced players.
- Winner: Tie
Tonewoods
- Taylor Gs Mini: The GS Mini often uses layered wood for the back and sides, which contributes to its affordability and durability. Its top wood varies, often solid spruce or mahogany, influencing the guitar’s tone.
- Full Size: Full-size guitars often use solid wood for the top, back, and sides, offering richer tonal complexity and sustain, and allowing for greater tonal variation depending on wood choice.
- Winner: Full Size
Sound Quality/Projection
- Taylor Gs Mini: Despite its size, the GS Mini projects a surprisingly full sound. The smaller body, however, may not project as powerfully as a full-size guitar, limiting its suitability for ensemble playing.
- Full Size: Full-size guitars generally offer a louder and more resonant sound with greater projection. This makes them ideal for live performances and playing with other instruments.
- Winner: Full Size
Playability
- Taylor Gs Mini: The GS Mini’s shorter scale length and smaller body make it easier to play, especially for players with smaller hands or those new to guitar. The neck profile also tends to be comfortable.
- Full Size: Full-size guitars can feel more challenging for beginners due to the larger size and longer scale length. However, experienced players often prefer the feel and string spacing.
- Winner: GS Mini
Cost
- Taylor Gs Mini: The GS Mini is typically more affordable than high-end full-size Taylor guitars, making it an excellent value for its quality and portability.
- Full Size: Full-size guitars, especially those made with solid tonewoods, can be significantly more expensive. The cost reflects the materials and craftsmanship.
- Winner: GS Mini
Versatility
- Taylor Gs Mini: The GS Mini is great for a variety of playing styles. Its size and tone make it suitable for fingerstyle, strumming, and songwriting.
- Full Size: Full-size guitars are versatile instruments suitable for a wide range of playing styles and musical genres, from folk to rock. The larger soundboard makes it ideal for many styles.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Portability | taylor gs mini |
| Comfort (Smaller Hands) | taylor gs mini |
| Sound Projection | full size |
| Overall Tone | full size |
| Value | taylor gs mini |
| Beginner Guitar | taylor gs mini |
What They Have in Common
- Acoustic Sound: Both guitars produce sound through the vibration of strings and the resonance of the body, offering a rich acoustic experience.
- Taylor Craftsmanship: Both are built with Taylor’s renowned quality and attention to detail, ensuring a high standard of construction and playability.
- String Configuration: Both utilize six steel strings, adhering to the standard acoustic guitar string setup.
- Versatility: Both are suitable for a wide range of musical genres and playing styles, from fingerpicking to strumming.
- Taylor Design Philosophy: Both guitars reflect Taylor’s commitment to playability and innovative design features.
Taylor GS Mini Vs Full Size Buying Guide
Price and Budget
The Taylor GS Mini, with its smaller size and often more affordable wood choices, typically comes at a lower price point than full-size Taylor guitars. This makes it an attractive option for beginners, students, or those on a tighter budget. However, the price difference isn’t always vast, depending on the specific models and features. Consider your overall budget and the long-term investment you’re willing to make. Factor in the cost of accessories like a case, which may be included with the GS Mini but an added expense with some full-size models.
Think about the materials used in construction. While the GS Mini uses high-quality materials, the full-size Taylor guitars might offer higher grade woods and superior craftsmanship which influences the price. Consider if this premium is worth the extra cost. Ultimately, the best choice depends on what you value most: affordability or premium features.
Size and Portability
The Taylor GS Mini undeniably wins in terms of portability. Its compact dimensions make it ideal for travel, taking to lessons, or simply having a guitar readily available around the house. A full-size guitar, on the other hand, is significantly larger and bulkier. This can pose challenges for smaller players or those who frequently move around. Consider the situations where you’ll be playing the most. If travel and convenience are paramount, the GS Mini is the clear winner.
The size difference extends beyond transportation. A full-size guitar might feel overwhelming or uncomfortable for a younger or smaller player. The GS Mini’s comfortable playability can foster a more enjoyable learning experience for those with smaller hands. Think about where you’ll be playing the guitar often and how it will impact your comfort and ease of use.
Sound and Tone
While the Taylor GS Mini delivers a surprisingly rich and full sound for its size, a full-size Taylor guitar generally offers a more expansive and resonant tone. The larger body of a full-size guitar allows for greater projection and a wider dynamic range. This means you can achieve a more powerful sound for larger venues or more complex playing styles. The GS Mini, however, excels in its focused and balanced sound, making it great for recording and intimate settings.
Consider the type of music you plan to play. If you’re looking for a louder sound with more sustain, a full-size guitar might be better. If you prioritize balance, clarity, and ease of playability, the GS Mini is a strong contender. The choice often comes down to personal preference and the specific sonic characteristics you seek. Listen to sound samples of both guitars to make a more informed decision.
Playability and Comfort
The GS Mini’s smaller neck profile and overall size often make it easier to play, particularly for beginners or those with smaller hands. The reduced string spacing and shorter scale length can make chord changes and fingerpicking less challenging. Full-size guitars can feel more cumbersome, especially if you’re not accustomed to their dimensions. However, full-size guitars offer more space on the fretboard for advanced techniques.
Playability is a very personal factor. Try both guitars in person if possible, and pay attention to how they feel in your hands and how comfortable they are to hold. Consider the ease of reaching the higher frets and how easy it is to play chords. The GS Mini’s smaller size can make it easier to practice for extended periods without fatigue.
Intended Use and Purpose
Consider how you will use the guitar. The GS Mini is excellent for travel, practice, songwriting, and casual playing. Its compact size makes it a great “couch guitar” and a convenient option for taking on the road. Full-size guitars are better suited for performing, studio recording, and situations where greater volume and projection are required. Think about where you will be playing the most and what sounds are needed.
If you’re a beginner, the GS Mini’s comfort and ease of play can be a huge advantage. If you’re a seasoned player looking for a professional-grade instrument, a full-size Taylor might be a better choice. The best guitar will depend on your musical goals and the environments in which you plan to play.
Longevity and Resale Value
Taylor guitars, both GS Mini and full-size models, are known for their quality construction and generally hold their value well. However, resale value depends on several factors, including the specific model, condition, and market demand. Full-size guitars, especially those with premium features and tonewoods, may retain their value better over time. The GS Mini is a very popular guitar, so its resale market is very good.
Consider the long-term investment. If you’re looking for an instrument that will last you for many years and potentially appreciate in value, a full-size Taylor might be a better choice. If you’re prioritizing affordability and portability, the GS Mini offers excellent value. Research the resale prices of both models and assess how they fit into your budget.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy taylor gs mini If…
- You want a highly portable and travel-friendly guitar.
- You prefer a smaller body size for comfort and ease of playing.
- You’re looking for a guitar with a focused, balanced sound.
- You want an excellent guitar for beginners.
Buy full size If…
- You prioritize a full, rich, and resonant sound with more projection.
- You want the feel of a standard-sized acoustic guitar.
- You value the wider string spacing for fingerstyle playing.
- You prioritize a wider range of tonal possibilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences in size?
The Taylor GS Mini is significantly smaller than a full-size Taylor guitar. The GS Mini has a shorter scale length (23.5 inches) and a smaller body, making it more portable and comfortable for players with smaller frames. Full-size guitars have a longer scale length (typically 25.5 inches) and a larger body, providing a fuller sound and more playing space.
Which guitar is better for beginners?
The Taylor GS Mini often is better for beginners due to its smaller size, making it easier to hold and play. The shorter scale length and comfortable neck profile reduce finger strain, making learning chords and practicing more enjoyable. However, a full-size guitar can be suitable for beginners with larger hands or a preference for the full sound.
Does the GS Mini sound as good as a full-size Taylor?
The Taylor GS Mini produces a surprisingly rich sound for its size, but it cannot fully match the volume and projection of a full-size Taylor guitar. The full size guitar offers a wider dynamic range and greater sustain due to its larger body. However, the GS Mini offers a well-balanced sound perfect for many situations.
Is the GS Mini good for travel?
Yes, the Taylor GS Mini is excellent for travel. Its compact size makes it easy to pack and carry, whether you’re flying, driving, or simply moving around the house. It’s a great choice for taking on trips, camping, or anywhere you want to have a guitar without the bulk of a full-size instrument.
What are the advantages of a full-size Taylor?
Full-size Taylor guitars offer a more powerful and resonant sound, with greater projection and sustain. They provide more playing space and a wider range of tonal possibilities. They often feature higher-grade woods and craftsmanship. They’re better suited for professional performances and recording in many cases.
What are the wood options for each guitar?
The Taylor GS Mini is available in various wood combinations, including solid spruce tops with layered sapele or mahogany back and sides. Full-size Taylor guitars offer a wider range of wood options, including solid spruce, mahogany, rosewood, and koa, with a variety of back and side materials.
Which guitar holds its value better?
Taylor guitars generally hold their value well. Full-size Taylor guitars, especially those with premium features and tonewoods, might retain their value better over time. The GS Mini remains popular, so its resale market is good. Resale value depends on the specific model, condition, and market demand.
Final Verdict
Both the Taylor GS Mini and full-size Taylor guitars offer exceptional quality and playability. The GS Mini excels in portability, comfort, and affordability, making it a great choice for beginners and travelers. Full-size guitars provide a richer, more powerful sound and greater versatility for professionals and those seeking maximum projection. Consider your individual needs and playing style.
Winner: Taylor GS Mini