Baby Taylor vs GS Mini (for a beginner)

[Ecadad]

My mom has taken an interest in learning to play guitar, and I would love to get her one for Mother's Day.

She played a Baby Taylor recently at a guitar store and absolutely loved it. I think the size and small neck is good for her. But I've heard that the GS Mini is far superior. Which one would you suggest for her, and why?

 

[Piotr]

GS Mini is far superior IMHO. These are surprisingly well sounding guitars, regardless of size and price considerations. I played quite a few with my friend. We liked the limited editions the most, with blackwood (I think?) version taking the cake (and my friend taking it home).

 

[tarheelbob]

First of all, if she loves the Baby Taylor, get it. It's what she likes.

That being said, I strongly agree with Piotr, the GS Mini is a superior guitar. I could not believe the playability and sound from this smaller guitar. Just beautiful. If she is open to trying one, she may change her mind. If not, get the Baby.

- Bob

 

[screamin eagle]

Remember she's a beginner. Being inspired by the instrument is really important when dealing with the struggles of just starting. Even if the GS mini is a superior instrument, if she really likes the Baby Taylor and acts like it's calling her, then I think you have your answer.

We've all bought things that may not have been the best bang for the buck, but was absolutely the right purchase.

 

[Obsessed]

My wife has a GS mini. It is a fantastic guitar and the best dread sound from a small guitar that I have ever heard, but personally I like the baby Taylor more and maybe because I don't care as much for a dread sound and I like more of a Taylor voice. The other thing to consider is the scale length of the GS mini is very short and difficult for me to play and even my petite wife (who is really more of a bass player), has moved to longer scale guitars, but can't part with the GS Mini. FWIW

BTW, what an awesome gift for your mom.

 

[burntfrijoles]

If she sticks with it, she could easily outgrow the Baby. The GS Mini is a serious guitar. I have one and although it's used mostly for practice and noodling, I also use it as my detuned guitar. I would not hesitate to play it in most situations.
The GS Mini is a good value and worth the extra $$.

 

[Dukex]

I would consider the Big Baby as well. It is my favorite of the three. You should just go into a store that has all three and have her play them for a while...no hurry...then buy the one she likes.

 

[sean79]

Ecadad, did your mom play a GS Mini at the store? I know they're both (GA and Baby) short scaled guitars, but I think the Baby is even shorter that the Mini. I think the Baby sounds good - for such a small guitar. But the skinny neck, combined with the shorter short scale, makes it tough for me to form chords. I've never played a Mini, but I do hear they are nice - and they don't have screws through the fretboard like the Baby and Big Baby.

 

[jwp333]

Played another Mini yesterday at sam Ash, all mahogany version, and it was awesome as usual. Also picked on another new contender, the Academy series Taylor dread. I liked that one too. I think it was $699? I've read that they have an OM size one as well, but not at that store. You can spot this series by the bevel on the top where your arm rests. Taylor does an excellent job with these modestly priced guitars.

 

[studio1087]

Of the two I think that the GS Mini would be be more gratifying over the long haul because it sounds bigger and feels better in your lap. I tend to hunch over my Baby Taylor when i no I play it for long periods. I have a Baby, GS Mini and a Big Baby and the Big Baby is my favorite. The Big Baby is still smaller and comfy but the sound is very big (biggest of the three).