Taylor GS Mini (Layered Sapele) review

Full review

The GS Mini solves a common problem: full-size acoustics are big. This one is a scaled-down version of Taylor's Grand Symphony shape, and its 597 mm scale means slightly lower string tension and shorter stretches between frets.

Despite the size, it does not sound like a toy. The solid spruce top is torrefied, a roasting process that ages the wood, and the tone is clear and punchy with more bass than you would expect. It will not match a dreadnought for sheer volume, but for practice, songwriting and travel it is lovely.

Taylor fits an ebony fretboard and bridge, which you rarely see at this price, along with a Nubone nut and coated D'Addario XS strings. The structured gig bag is good enough for flights and car boots. Left-handed models are available by special order.

This standard version has no pickup. If you want to plug in, look for the GS Mini-e models, which add Taylor's electronics at extra cost.