Taylors under $500?

[Gibsonist]

Hello, everyone! I need the assistance of some Taylor specialists.

I received a Sam Ash catalog in the mail and came across a few modestly-priced Taylors. I've always loved playing Taylors (and Martins), but could never justify the price. I'm not a heavy acoustic player, and from what I've seen, the only thing in the $300-$500 range that are worth it to me are Yamahas and Seagulls.

I've played the Mexican-Made Martins that are in this price range and was rather disappointed. I wonder, are the Taylors any better?

A couple models that have intrigued me are the Taylor Baby, Big Baby, and GS Mini. Does anyone here own one? If so, what do you think of it?

Also, does anyone know their country of manufacture? I know, a lot of imports are very high-quality instruments, but I tend to gravitate to all things American-made (cars, guitars, and everything in between).

Thanks in advance, everyone.

 

[colchar]

I test drove the Big Baby recently and found that it felt cheap. It was too light (didn't feel like it had any substance) and, to me, the two screws through the fretboard make it look cheap as well.

 

[studio1087]

The screws that are countersunk in the Baby Taylor necks make for a very tight and good sounding neck set at a lower cost.

I have a Mahogany top Baby and a Standard Big Baby.

My Baby has flown on many scuba trips to Mexico and the Big Baby has gone on many ski trips out west. They are durable, easy to play and they sound good. The tops are solid wood. I love 'em and I don't pay the compliment lightly. I only gig acoustic and I have a dozen full sized Martin, Larrivee and Taylor guitars.

I've tried the GS Mini and it's a neat guitar but for the money I like the 15/16th scale Big Baby the best. Easy to travel with and just a bit smaller than a full sized guitar but it feels and sounds like a full guitar in your lap.

Big Babies are $450 new but I bought one Big Baby used at Guitar Center for $300 and I bought a second one on eBay for $275. The one on eBay was minty but the bag was ratty. I bought a new black Taylor bag at Guitar Center for $30 and I drag that Big baby all over the place. Great campfire guitar.

I made this video playing the same Steely Dan song on my Big Baby and then on my Baby........

[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_dwN4drK40M"]Big Baby vs. the Baby[/ame]

Find a nice used Big Baby for $300. You'll have a blast with it.

John

 

[studio1087]

Buy it now - $275

Lots of deals on ebay.

 

[shan564]

I played a Baby at GC a couple of days ago and I was fairly impressed. It wasn't the best mini guitar I've ever played (that'd be the Mini Maton), but definitely good for the money. Still, I think they capitalize on the Taylor name... it doesn't sound as good as a full-size guitar from a company like Cort, or even Ovation. I think it's only worth it if you're looking for a small-size guitar.

 

[dougk]

I freaking LOVE my Baby Taylor.

Is it as nice as my 710CE? Hell no. Is it fun to play? Absolutely! Love to travel with that guy.

-d