Taylor GS Mini-e Walnut/Spruce Review

Taylor GS Mini-e Review – How does the walnut/spruce blend sound?

Taylor are no strangers when it comes to creating some of the best mid-range guitars the market has to offer. The GS Mini E is a fine example of that, taking one of the most beloved shapes and down-sizing it into something that is both age and travel friendly. Whether you’re looking for a gigging guitar that doesn’t take up a tonne of room or just want something that’s a little less space consuming for the house, the GS mini-e from Taylor is seriously tough to beat. 

The Taylor GS Mini-e is a downscaled version of the hugely popular Grand Symphony body shape that has been utilized in a tonne of guitars over the years.

The original Grand Symphony gave both strummers and finger pickers the tonal versatility required to take their music to stage. Furthermore, with stunning dynamic definition and a powerful acoustic projection, the Grand Symphony was a mile ahead of its rivals. With that in mind, users will be happy to hear the GS Mini-e brings the same famous design traits found in the original to the table, only in a shrunken body. T

he smaller size is great for a wide age group and players that find larger guitars a little too demanding. Speaking of which, the body is a well thought out combination of solid sitka spruce top and walnut laminate back and sides – all of which are finished in a stylish satin coating. This combination of hardwoods gives the GS Mini-e a particularly warm sound that is characterized by a subtle bass undertone and crisp highs. Perfect for any number of varying musical styles. 

As we move away from the body, players will be treated to a 23.5” scale length sapele neck that is topped with a 20-fret Ebony fingerboard. Not only does the Ebony work extremely well with the rest of the guitar’s aesthetic, it also provides good speed and tonal accuracy.

Unfortunately, this guitar does not offer a cutaway shape, meaning the upper reaches of fret scale aren’t easily accessible. That said, this is just one minor flaw in an otherwise fantastic guitar. With NuBone nut and saddle, chrome tuners and an Ebony bridge, this guitar really does catch the eye in all the right ways. 

To take this guitar from couch to stage, Taylor has equipped it with their ES-B pickup featuring the Expression system 2 piezo design elements.

With onboard preamp and built-in digital chromatic tuner, this guitar is more than equipped for on the fly tuning and tonal versatility.

Plugged in sound is truly fantastic, providing a natural voice that is true to its acoustic character. With plenty of mid-range clarity and a subtle bass undertone, players can bring out the best of this guitar in a stage environment. For casual players, the acoustic projection is a little less impressive than the GS original. Having said that, it still provides plenty of likeable tones that are a joy to play. 

 

Video Demos

 

Pros

• Nicely designed shape, utilizing a combination of walnut and Solid sitka spruce
• Very good value for money
• Aesthetically, very pleasing
• Quality construction that comes with almost every Taylor guitar

Cons

• The size of the GS Mini-e might be a little too small for some individuals

 

Conclusion

The Taylor Mini series is incredibly popular in the acoustic guitar world, an it’s so easy to see why. A premium offering right here, and something I’d definitely recommend to any budding and seasoned acoustic guitarists looking for a top-notch model (I’ve already added this one to my collection).

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