Taylor Academy Series | The Best Beginner Acoustic Guitar?

[@ka3uxu1]

I own a Taylor T5Z, and a Taylor 714. They are my most expensive guitars. I also own an Academy 12. As God as my witness, the Academy 12 is always the first guitar I reach for. It has such a handle on the low end (E, A, and D strings) you can almost feel it in your lower jaw, that’s no lie! The "tone freak" that I am, I swear by this guitar. It offers a "rawness" that is blatantly crude. I consider it nothing short of a God given miracle that I was gifted with this guitar. The entry level guitar that it’s considered to be, its anything but, it’s still very studio worthy. Yes, it’s just that good.

[@mymusicforchrist]

Hi, thank you for that helpful review. I am 69 years old and been playing guitar since 15 vears old so now my fretting hand is becoming a little stiff. I love the sound of all the Academy Taylor guitars. I wonder which one is easier on my fretting hand, 10e, 12e, or even the T5Z? I know you didn't mention the 10e but mybe you have some insieght on it anyway. Appreciate it, thank you,

[@danbgt]

The only thing I would disagree with in this video is labeling them as just a beginner guitar. These Academy guitars are excellent instruments in their own right. For the money they are a great choice for a primary guitar. Being laminated they are not as susceptible to weather changes as a solid wood instrument is. Probably not going to see a pro playing one but that’s just because of appearances. 😂 But they sound great.

[@Saxlicker]

Yes a bit of an over sight there...I'm sure in previous video's he points out (at least other reviewers do) that just like the GS mini is a travel size guitar in its purpose, the sound goes beyond the pigeon hole labelling and into the ligger leagues for quality.

[@brandonburdick2245]

Go on Taylors instagram and look at all the Pros playing them as stage guitars lol... these guys get em for free or 50% off and they choose the academy as their primary instrument... so the Pro thing is proven wrong... a lot of pro guys use the 114 ce and 214 ce as well as stage guitars. Low feedback risk as well....

[@1funkybasslady]

I have been playing guitar for MANY years. I have been having problems with arthritis in my fingers, so it is becoming more difficult for me to play my Martin D-45 Custom Shop and D-41 Reimagined. They are beyond fabulous guitars, but the full scale length is difficult for my old broken down fingers. I decided to look for something with a shorter scale length and smaller body. The problem I've had is that I am addicted to the big, full-bodied sound of the Martin dreadnoughts, and smaller 000's and OM's sound like the small guitars that they are. My ears no likey! I play fingerstyle, but I don't like so-called fingerstyle guitars in general because they don't have enough low end response for when I want to "dig in." So just for the heck of it I saw this 10e hanging on the wall at Guitar Center, so I thought maybe this would give me the fuller sound I'm looking for than a 000 provides, and the easier neck with the shorter scale length might just be the ticket." Sure enough! I played it for one minute and that did it! It came home with me. I had tried virtually every other small bodied guitar in the store. That is no exaggeration. This Taylor 10e provides a wonderfully full-bodied sound, and it is so comfortable to hold and play, I couldn't ask for more. It is now my "couch guitar" that I don't have to worry about, yet it sounds terrific and plays so easily my hands are thanking me over and over again! I am VERY particular about tone, and this guitar delivers - even when using a cheater (capo) up the neck! In addition, I am very particular about intonation. This guitar is as in tune with itself as any other acoustic guitar I've ever played -- again, even with a capo. And so...your assertion that this is NOT just a guitar for beginners is absolutely correct! I dare any "pro" to try one before discounting it as such. It is a hoot to play. I just can't put it down!

[@glenarmy1]

@@1funkybasslady ditto good sir I. A good guitar player but a lifelong heavy mechanic and that’s catching up and it sounds great and holds tune.

[@billbailey9833]

Chris, great video. Listeners pay attention. He speaks the truth. Earlier this year, my granddaughter, who'll be 10 next month, wanted to learn to play so I got her a Luna Aurora Borealis 3/4 size guitar. It's not a bad instrument, but it was difficult for her to play and she soon became frustrated. However, she still wanted to learn, so when I purchased my second Taylor, I took advantage of their promotion and got her an Academy 10. It made a world of difference. She was having difficulty playing a D chord on the Luna because of the action. With the Academy she had no problem making a clean sounding D. She's now learned several more chords and the excitement is back. She really loves the beveled armrest. Every time she comes for a visit she has her guitar and wants to practice. It makes my heart happy.

[@AlamoMusic]

Excellent point! Thanks for sharing!

[@elikingston8744]

i know Im randomly asking but does anybody know of a trick to get back into an Instagram account?? I somehow forgot my password. I would love any tips you can give me.

[@traviszahir2699]

@Eli Kingston instablaster ;)

[@elikingston8744]

@Travis Zahir thanks so much for your reply. I found the site thru google and im trying it out now. Seems to take quite some time so I will reply here later with my results.

[@elikingston8744]

@Travis Zahir it did the trick and I actually got access to my account again. I am so happy:D Thanks so much you saved my account!

[@ScaloraProductions]

I am happy to read comments of people who are more experienced and swear by this guitar. I went guitar shopping yesterday and wanted a good mid-level guitar. I stumbled upon this one was is a ‘beginner’ guitar. I loved it right away when I played it! It’s so comfortable! Some other guitar did sound ‘bigger’. This one had a more modest output, but it beautiful nonetheless. Good to see that it is a great guitar to consider for any player! I’m buying it.

[@jerrypierson3139]

I’ve been play for a few years. And then found the 12-E. Completely in love with it. 4 Acoustic Guitars, 2 Electric Guitars. That little Guitar is just great.

[@AlamoMusic]

Rock on!

[@jimmyroberts3027]

Had my GS mini Koa for 18 months now, my progression is massive, ( I’m 44 & struggled to learn prior) it’s playability alone , even as old beginning it sounds simply amazing it my hands, & keeps you wanting to play it as much as possible. Brilliant Guitars Taylors.🤘

[@AlamoMusic]

I love that guitar!

[@texhaines9957]

Great comparison Chris. I got a Taylor GS Mini & an Academy A12 for my grandchildren. THEY USE THEM. I also have them at my house so they don't have to haul them back and forth. The A12 sits next to the TV so I can catch guitar parts from shows & commercials and practice during the news.

[@bubbajeph]

Tex, which guitar you like the most? GS or A12?

[@texhaines9957]

@@bubbajeph probably the A12. I got it with a Taylor 717e Builders Edition. I have 4 grandchildren about 98 miles away. The younger ones like the Mini, but the 12 year old likes the A12. She uses her phone to tune it and her viola. My favorite guitar for right now is a Martin Custom Shop based on an OM-28 but with Adirondack Sprucep top. The Lutz Spruce top would be closer in tone.

[@texhaines9957]

@@bubbajeph I finger pick & strum & sing mostly older tunes, church music, folk, country, roots, with some Beatles, CCR, and others. I play & sing for those who don't get out much or at all; assisted living, memory care (Alzheimer's) & similar things.

[@AlamoMusic]

Very cool! Always enjoy your comments!

[@robb4357]

I’ve owned a A12 for about a year and love it. Has great tone and is easy to play. My daughter has been playing it more and more so she would probably say it’s hers.

[@AlamoMusic]

You two should start a band!

[@joejamesthomas5113]

These guitars are truly amazing. Bought one from my local music store just over 2 years ago. Haven't played anything else since. So comfy to play, the sound is amazing and I've had plenty people say how loud it is. I've played it that much there's literally almost a hole through the top from where I've strummed 😂 I put a pickguard on it but not long after took it back off. A pickguard restricts the sound quite a bit. Basically, it's a no brainer and there's literally nothing to fault about it. Love it!

[@cjd959]

I have the Taylor A12 and I love it! Learning on it. Hands down the best acoustic under $500 imo.

[@dval1895]

I'm not a beginner, been playing for 20 years. I just bought one. I played 10 acoustics and this one felt comfortable, and sounded better than a few 1200+ ones.

[@oc3144]

I agree, this shouldn't be labeled as a student guitar

[@Camelotsmoon]

I manage to score a new yamaha fg820-sb for $260 on reverb somehow; no gig bag or anything, but that's fine with me, I'll just buy it separately. Pretty excited to get it and start playing!

[@margaretschuering622]

I took up guitar and my teacher suggested that I should go with a Taylor GS Mini. I've been really happy with the guitar because it is great for someone with smaller hands and shorter fingers. Also I'm smaller in stature so it is comfortable for me to hold. The sound is great and I continue with my journey in learning how to play. I'm a fan of Taylor. I agree with you as well as my teacher that if you don't find a guitar that is comfortable for you and your needs, you won't continue learning to play. I hope I'm not taking away from your video on the Taylor Academy Series, but I highly recommend Taylor guitars no matter what series.

[@AlamoMusic]

Not at all! Really appreciate you saying that! It's important for people to hear about other options!

[@charlesbranch4120]

Thank you for this update, Chris! You're partly responsible for my becoming a 'Taylor Insider' with the registration of a 12 and 12e, and regular attender of "Taylor Guitars Primetime" on Tuesdays 6 p.m. Pacific, 8 p.m. Central on youtube, live for an hour plus, and viewable later. Andy Lund plays the themes (with his T5z at my request 7/28), Chris Sharp and host Jay Parkin, with a special guest (August 4: it's Andy Powers!). This week, I asked an online seller about their brand new A12EWP, and he confirmed that it is a prototype with layered walnut, replaced the GS-mini photo series in the listing with those of the actual guitar. Enjoying the experience of learning and the invitations to play (at my dental appointment and with a local group gathering for learning evenings) as I get comfortable with it. Love the Alamo Music "I'm a Guitar Nut" T-shirt, by the way. Sorta looks like a sausage roll in need of a bratwurst. Thank you for your service to customers, viewers and fans.

[@AlamoMusic]

Well thank you for the compliments and support! Always enjoy hearing from you!

[@j.kersten2837]

at about 7:10 you said that there is nothing wrong. Maybe, it's only me. I found the sharp corner of the nut uncomfortable and sanded it round. I tried other Taylors in the shop with all having the same problem. Other makes have rounded nut corners. It is easy to fix and hardly worth mentioning 😉. Apart from this, it is an excellent beginners guitar and fun to play

[@zonedrifter]

I’ve been playing the 12eN for about 2 years now and it’s probably my favorite guitar I’ve ever owned. The spruce top (which has some crazy figuring) has opened up nicely. I use it for classical, finger style, strumming, everything. Sounds good and is so comfortable. I wouldn’t call this a beginner guitar. It’s an affordable work horse that sounds great.

[@oc3144]

When I discovered this guitar , I fell in love with it. I also wouldn't call this a beginner, budget guitar, being $900. A beginner guitar is a $200 Yamaha

[@miggybyte]

The academy or the gs mini series, Taylor really hit the price point with great value - low action & solid top!

[@1olddoggie]

Wonderful Chris! Got my hoodie! These are the best reviews on the internet!

[@AlamoMusic]

Can't thank you enough for the support!

[@shawnreed9016]

Great video. I have looked at these before but being a big guy I went a different direction. My wife however would like to spend time with me playing so I think I will look into these. She’s a tiny thing so I believe these might be a great option for her. Lots of wonderful information in this video. Thank you for sharing. Greetings from Lubbock and stay safe out there. 🤠🎸

[@bubbajeph]

Chris, enjoy your videos. I keep bouncing back & forth as to what guitar I want to learn to play. I am like an olympic ping pong Gold Metal Round, trying to keep up. Taylor GS Mini or the Academy 12. I am older than most newbies. Sputnik & I are the same age. Thank you again for your videos.

[@Saxlicker]

I'm older too....I've been out there and bought 2 guitars (I stared just before lock down). If I could rewind I would have bought the Academy 12E. It would replace my GS Mini and full size Fender Dreadnought in one package. The GS Mini is great actually but the strings aren't as light as on the Mini, Do not underestimate the comfort of the bevel and you are well on your way to something full size that you will play longer. One thing I've heard a lot of people say (including Chris in other video's I think) is that the sound of the Academy is anything but student. Of course my last comment will be subjective as t whether it's a sound you are after but it's decent and holds it's own in that price bracket.

[@AlamoMusic]

Glad you like them! Those guitars both play really well. If you are of a smaller frame you might want a smaller guitar, however I would recommend listening to some audio of both.

[@charlesbranch4120]

I'm with you, as I was born on the day the Air Force accepted its first B-52 Stratofortress at Castle AFB. I'm learning with a 12 and a 12e, since my youngest daughter's offer of the Yamaha FG730S that I bought for her during her 4-H music camp years many summers ago still suits her, but the dreadnought battleship size is uncomfortable for my retired body. Taylor's Grand Concert size with the armrest bevel is comfortable, and the NT neck with low action is just right. Just found my instructor, who said that most of her students are over 50, and two are in their 90s, which sounded as good as the Academy series feels. On my way!

[@charlottesimonin2551]

You identified the key factor that has become a stumbling block to my effort in learning to play guitar: string height . I bought one of the suggested beginner classical guitars. I decided based on what I knew about the products the company manufactures. After all how bad could a guitar manufactured by a company that also make concert Piano's be?? I don't remember having this much trouble 50 years ago when I played around with a room mates steel string sears special. Now I wish I had spent the extra money and bought a better guitar. How different is the Nylon string guitar from a classical model as a learning tool.

[@AlamoMusic]

It isn't a huge difference. However if you want to learn nylon string you should maybe just get a classical. The Yamaha C40 is very affordable and good quality!

[@borisprobkin2941]

Gracias Chris. Muy difíciles de conseguir en México (se agotan de volada en las pocas tiendas que las venden). Todo lo que dices sobre la necesidad de aprender en una guitarra inspiradora por su excelente sonido, confortable y accionable, y perseverar con el menor sufrimiento, es esencial para todo principiante. Muchas gracias por tan excelente video.

[@garyives1218]

I'd love to see a more affordable Grand Theater line (with arm bevel). The small GS Mini line was a huge success. I can only imagine the slightly bigger body and 24.125" scale would be well received. For a company with such massive production numbers and modern production techniques, why not?

[@pascalpoitras7287]

I have the Academy 10, perfect size, great tone, low action, like others said, this line up are not just for children or beginners. The only thing Taylor should add, a pickguard specially on the dreadnut version when you strum the guitar, I did install one on mine that purchased from Taylor but they do not offer the one specific for the Academy series. Last week, I tried couple days at home a Taylor 214CE Plus that sounds awesome that cost much more than my Academy, but after couple hours of play, I started to get pain in my arm because the 214CE doesn’t have the arm rest and back pain because of the size of the guitar that is standard GA size. When I switched over my Academy, what a comfortable shoes that guitar is, awesome guitar for the price stop searching and buy the Academy of your choice for watch style you want to play!

[@sterlingfury]

Thank you very much Chris...I am a mature about to be beginner and so this has been very helpful. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ Really enjoyed your playing 🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@rmzzz76]

These aren't bad guitars, I just take issue with the price point for features given the newer competition. I comparison I've yet to see is the Martin 000-Jr ($549) compared to the Taylor Academy 12 ($699). For 30% less, C.F. Martin's offering (also made in Mexico) gives you all solid wood construction, proper binding and a nice rosette. Tone wise, I'm a bigger fan of the 000-Jr, again not hating on the Academy 12, just recommend buyers consider the 000-Jr... With the Taylor, you're trading solid wood construction and binding you get on the Martin for Taylor's bolt-on neck design, beveled armrest and Ebony fretboard (Taylor would rather the fretboard be solid wood than the back and sides... but it kind of works for their design), I much prefer Martin's offering and would say the 000-Jr I found to be a better guitar than the GS Mini as well. It seems marketed to compete with the GS Mini, but functionally the 000-Jr more a competitor to the Academy 12 to me.

[@abimelectorres]

Thanks for this comment. I am searching for a Guitar (I’m a complete beginner) and I am between the Academy 12e or the 000-CJr-10e.

[@rmzzz76]

@@abimelectorres both great choices… I’d go with the Martin 000-JR. I own about 8 acoustics valued from $400 up to about $3k and I probably play my 000-JR more than any because it’s just so comfortable… all solid wood, stays in tune and very easy to play once setup right… it is the perfect first guitar

[@ndoc7]

I have a Taylor Academy 12 e-N it sounds great and the price worth it. Your videos helped me make the right choice. After that, I continue to see your videos and got the GS-Mini and the Baby Taylor. I don´t regret buying them. They are fantastic.

[@AlamoMusic]

Great to hear!

[@alga4693]

I have an Academy 10 and I love it. It sounds great, and I am able to play bar chords on it. I have small hands and I have tried a lot of guitars before finding this one.

[@7enderstrato]

Those academy guitars sound amazing

[@AlamoMusic]

We think so too!

[@jakevoss7885]

I was impressed by how well they play. Slim neck, low action

[@mojobonbon]

$499 for a beginner guitar is definitely not expensive. if you want something for less, then take a friend that knows guitars and look for used. taylor makes quality guitars...i have 2, myself!

[@markusbaldingen7248]

Thank you! Love your sound on the steel 12 here! I'm still saving up, so I started my fingerpicking adventure on the Fender CC 60S. It is more than fine for the 160 Euros I paid and was worth the upgrade I made on tuners and a Tusq saddle. I hear a lot of her voice in the Taylor 12... there is something about the sound of the concert size body.

[@mikeyhope7577]

Such a beautiful guitar. Gonna be making the splurge and put my all into learning.

[@jamesceraso4972]

I have this steel strings Taylor Guitar.I was a little over 800$.I have owned so many great guitars.This Guitar is the best sounding guitar ever since I started playing in 1955 .I feel like I stole this Taylor made in California.I put light gauge strings on.I would play this guitar any on any stage.The sound is beautiful and would not trade for a Martin or Gibson.I will get another Taylor auditorium.I will play my guitar until God says come home.I will ask him if he has a Taylor in Heaven .If he doesn't I will ask him can I bring mine?

[@will-ht3mc]

This comment convinced me to get one

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

Alamo Music Center It feels like an Electric Guitar in a way. Electric Guitars are fantastic for beginners, but Acoustic Guitars that feel like Electrics are fantastic too.

[@kevtlee08]

Haven’t played the guitar and years and wanted to get back to playing. Been looking for a good one. This video really help. Although I’m not technically a beginner, I wouldn’t call myself an intermediate just due to the fact that I haven’t played so long and it just feels awkward playing again.

[@tlotuber]

I'm in same boat. Stopped playing about a decade ago and sold my Taylor 412 to someone who was happy to take it from me at the time. Been itching to get back into it, but don't want to spend for a 412. This A12 looks like a great option.

[@jcd13able]

If I didn't already have a yamaha fs800 (same size as academy) I would definitely be getting the academy 12. Just the fact that you can shim the neck and adjust the string action on the academy is a big plus. Also, in future there is no need for neck reset on the academy as it has a bolt on neck like the more expensive models. Just buy the taylor shims for fifty bucks. My fs800 does have higher string action, it's playable but will eventually need the nut and saddle sanded down a bit for more comfort. However brand new it cost me $220.

[@mysticalwizardguy]

Really close to getting the A12 but managed to A/B test a 114 and it was also amazing. Anyone have anything to add about pros and cons of each? I love the size, shape and price of the A12 but the 114 seemed to have a larger sonic palatte. As someone who gigs in a singer/guitar duo and a 3 piece band, what would you recommend?

[@Reginaldesq]

I'm in Australia so prices are different (Australian Dollars). I purchased a new guitar for $222 from a department store and taught myself for 12 months (at least 1 hour per day of practise). I spent 6 of those months trying to play the F barr chord. I decided to travel around music shops trying to find a guitar I could play F chord on. I found quite a few starting from $650, below that price they were all bad. I narrowed it down to about 3 guitars because they all had pretty good action at the nut end as well as good action towards the bridge. The Taylor academy 10e was the one I purchased even though it was the most expensive ($1150). I bought the Taylor because it was the most comfortable and I preferred the sound. My progress accelerated. Simply an easier guitar to play. Since then I have learned that. Few guitars play well off the shelf, even some very expensive (thousands of $) are well built but awful to play ........ why ...... Its because they dont know how your going to use the guitar and have to allow for every possibility. You might want heavy strings with a super low action or maybe very light strings with a higher action etc. They fully expect that an experienced guitarist is going to setup the guitar or have a luthier do it. So, by making a beginner guitar Taylor has said. OK you can have our build quality in a guitar that already has a setup done for a beginner. With all that said (congrats if your still reading) I did change the strings to a lighter set. Most acoustic guitars (including the 10e) ship with 12/53 string gauge. I changed to 10/47 gauge which I find easier to play. I just get very slight buzzing if I bash the strings. What this tells me, is that, even the Taylor academy is a little conservative in the setup. If the guitar was setup perfectly (for a beginner) then switching to lighter strings should have made it buzz really badly. Anyway, my 10e plays great with 10/47's and I can play F barr chord well now (and I have torn and missing ligaments in my left thumb).

[@AlamoMusic]

Very interesting points!

[@glenarmy1]

I’m not a beginner I have one I like it. Sounds and plays great.

[@rorymair7596]

Completely agree. 10 years ago bought a tanglewood £100, sounded rubbish, gave up after a few weeks. Then I bought a Ibanez £90 gave up sounded and played even worse. Covid lockdown, bought a GS Mini £529, have not put it down for 3 months. Pay that little more and you wont regret it. Atleast in the US it's a hell of a lot cheaper. Ps GS Mini Mohogany Rocks

[@AlamoMusic]

The Mini's are amazing guitar!

[@olivialane8804]

I’m trying to choose between the Taylor Academy 12 and the Taylor GS Mini spruce or mahogany. Same price and it’s stressing me out which to get lol

[@rorymair7596]

Gs mini mahogany....I bought it 3 months ago, the thing is a dream

[@louneson]

If you are new to the guitar then the Academy 12, it is a bit easier to play. The GS is a bit smaller and easier to travel with and if you have small hands it maybe easier to play with its 23in scale as opposed to the Academies 24 in scale. If you get the GS I would suggest the mahogany, spruce on a smaller guitar sometimes just sounds to bright to me. I have and Academy and a mahogany GS, (thank you stimulus check) and they are both really well made and the gig bags are the best I have come across.

[@yazdan7774]

Academy is classical/nylon Gs mini is an acoustic (steel string) guitar Theyre different

[@louneson]

@@yazdan7774 The Academy comes in both steel string and nylon. It cannot be conceded classical (imo) due to it body size and rather narrow neck in comparison to a Classical nylon guitar.

[@Saxlicker]

I've been out there and bought 2 guitars (I stared just before lock down). If I could rewind I would have bought the Academy 12E. It would replace my GS Mini and full size Fender Dreadnought in one package. The GS Mini is great actually but the strings aren't as light as on the Mini, Do not underestimate the comfort of the bevel and you are well on your way to something full size (between the mini and a full scale length) that you will play longer. One thing I've heard a lot of people say (including Chris in other video's I think) is that the sound of the Academy is anything but student. Of course my last comment will be subjective as t whether it's a sound you are after but it's decent and holds it's own in that price bracket.

[@christopherdougherty236]

That little riff you did on the Taylor academy 12 Steel was a beautiful!! Was is that if you don't mind me asking?? I have a GS mini mahogany I love it, I just bought an academy 12 Steel, I've been playing for 20 years. I just like the guitar and love the way it sounds lol

[@TheGamermouse]

Still in love with your stuff ♥

[@pierheadjump]

Please mention the setup, the Craigslist guitars I’ve bought spent years unused because the beginner hadn’t heard about a setup.All because the seller didn’t tell them.

[@oakraider80]

I am contemplating trading in my Martin dx1e for the Academy 12E. The Martin is a laminate all around so thats the only reason I am second guessing the Martin. It still sounds great but I did play the Taylor Academy 12E and it sounds awesome. The Academy 117E is the same price but I thought the 12 sounded better in hand. If anyone can help with these options I'd appreciate the insight and advice.

[@NirajAgarwal16]

I am confused between taylor academy 12e and gs mini. Can you help me choose? I am buying it for recording purpose. And is there any difference in sound of 12e and 114e? The woods used are same only the body size different. Please help me out.

[@AlamoMusic]

Both are great guitars! The most noticeable difference in these guitars is the size. The mini is smaller than the academy and the tone is a little different. I attatched two links so you could compare them yourself. They are both great quality guitars of the same brand and general price range so it is best to make a decision off your personal taste of their tone (: www.alamomusic.com/taylor-academy-12e-acoustic-electric-guitar/ www.alamomusic.com/taylor-gs-mini-mahogany-acoustic-guitar/

[@_daniel_6375]

10:25 where can i find the tabs ?

[@russellkane9439]

Hi man I want to buy the academy 12e... is it really LIGHT for the left hand?? because I have a lot of problerms with the heavy guitars I cant play them for more than 15 minutes...

[@jetwoman10001]

I am a petite 73 year old woman with some arthritis and this guitar is extremely light and comfortable. I play for hours. Hard to put down.

[@giulioguarino951]

I have a Yamaha FS 800 on which I’m learning properly after several time. I really like the Taylor brand... could this be a good step up guitar or there’s no much difference and I’d better save for another guitar? Thank you.

[@charlesbranch4120]

Definitely! It's been great for this beginner, and I agree with those who say it's a good intermediate guitar, too. In fact, I have both a 12 and a 12e, and added a Breedlove Pursuit Exotic Concert E Sitka-Koa that was being blown out by a music store during the early part of Pandemic Pause 2020 ($499.99 w/setup & shipping) as it appeared Breedlove was discontinuing the model. Then there was 10% off on the semi-hollow Ibanez electric... "The case rack is full..." No more room in the apartment... Unless I build another rack... My youngest daughter still has the Yamaha FG730S I bought for her to use at a 4-H Music Camp years ago, and she offered that for my use, but that battleship is too big and uncomfortable a body size for my retired body. The Taylor GC and armrest bevel is just right!

[@giulioguarino951]

@@charlesbranch4120 thank you for your kind answer. I ended up buying an X series Martin instead, by listening to several Taylors and Martins I realized I’m more a Martin person for what concerns the sound :)

[@butcharmstrong9645]

sweet music played on wonderful guitars by a beautiful guitar player. No hate mail plz. you know I'm right! lol

[@AlamoMusic]

You're appreciated!

[@butcharmstrong9645]

@@AlamoMusic Thank you. :~)

[@lowellcalavera6045]

Any decent guitar captures pretty much all of the points you touched with exception of the bevel. I agree with nylon strings for the little ones.

[@charlesbranch4120]

Or a baritone ukulele, which is tuned the same as the top four strings on guitar, DGBE...

[@LiveAndInPerson]

Can I put nylon strings on that dsteel string guitar. What kind?

[@jparker1823]

I'm stuck choosing between the A10 and a Martin X2 now that the Martins come with a gigbag and have solid wood tops.

[@charlesbranch4120]

If the A10 doesn't have a solid Sitka spruce top, that's news to me. Layered sapele (mahogany family) back and sides work great for me, since I lived and worked on the Gulf of Alaska coast's north temperate rainforest for thirty years, with humidity above 60% year around. We know Sitka spruce as the tree that's too big to hug, and musically as a horrible waste to harvest for the pulp mill.

[@jparker1823]

@@charlesbranch4120 Sorry. I just meant the X1s were not solid, but not the X2s are. I ended up going with a Cort Gold O6 which I picked up for $525. Far superior than either of these to models for around the same price.

[@bonannop]

Chris, I have suffered thru my GS mini as a portable guitar I keep in my office now for a few years -- frankly I hate it, its a Mahogany top and obviously the sapele back and sides -- please tell me these academy guitars are better than the GS minis ??? really want to shitcan my Mini for some thing better -- really love the slotted headstock nylon version, any good???

[@fredflinstone3173]

bonannop Given that the GS mini is Taylor’s most popular guitar, you might want to give a reason that you’ve “suffered” and what you hate about it before anyone can advise what might be better for you. Chris, as well as thousands of others think highly of the mini and love them, so the term shitcan without explanation probably won’t get you a productive response. In this video Chris recommends any of the versions including the nylon as well as a sound demo, and you ask him if it’s any good? I recommend you go play one and decide for yourself.

[@notshared4072]

Go to a music store and demo 'em? Not like they are rare. Please be sure to demo a transacoustic, too.

[@bonannop]

@@fredflinstone3173 Fred fair enough I think the guitar has reasonable tone and I am no novice at keeping guitar in tune but this thing will not stay in tune that is a pet peeve of mine guitar doesn't stay in tune it just so frustrating my other Martins all my Martin's stay in tune

[@AlamoMusic]

Hmmmm.. What is it you don't like about them? Generally they are pretty well liked.

[@jetwoman10001]

@@bonannop I've had two GS mini's and sold them both. I have the A12 e now and love it. Its a keeper. Seems to stay in tune well and is more comfortable for me than GS mini.

[@jacobharrington1025]

Ok so for the people out there who know guitars im looking for a taylor guitar i know what model i want grand auditorium but which one should i get im taking lessons and im having alot of fun playing my budget is 1000 bucks

[@artkeelsme4710]

Would you recomend it over a big baby? I read and hear so much positive reactions on that guitar.

[@jetwoman10001]

No comparison in sound and playability...A 12 so much better unless someone really needs something small. I am a petite woman and the A 12 is really comfortable and my go to.

[@ahassan3557]

Should I get this or a fg830?

[@eugeniustheodidactus8890]

Can you use extra light strings without adjustments?

[@cromley1]

I have played for 40 years.My current classical guitar neck width is 5'6/8 at 1st fret.i am not a beginner, but need a smaller width, which is best that does not sacrifice ability to play classical classics. Which nylon guitar would be one to look at ?

[@Jeep20220]

Bonjour, pensez-vous que sur la guitare Taylor 12 N je puisse installer un micro MiSi trio Air ? Cordialement JP

[@kevinbley2659]

What about someone who is an experienced player and wants to buy their first Taylor? Anyone have any suggestions? Spend the extra for the 300 and up series, or start out with the 100 series? Thanks in advance.

[@mcires59]

Hi, one question, Taylor Academy or Martin X series? with are better? Tanks in advance

[@MarkMenardTNY]

Is the fret board on the nylon flat or radiused?

[@ajahaliguyon700]

Can you do a video comparing Taylor academy e to Taylor gs mini e?. I wanna know which one is better to buy

[@GroovyJo]

I’ve had the A12 for months and can’t recommend it enough✌🏾

[@AlamoMusic]

Thanks for sharing!

[@jimmarinella9455]

Do you know when these will be in stock?

[@theghastlygamer5326]

I have an ianez talman. Would you say this is a better sounding, easier to play etc? I am looking at an a10

[@Sanne979]

Looking for a new guitar wich one should i get? The Taylor academy 12/ epiphone dove or the seagull s6?

[@aymanjohan8211]

I am kinda beginner and kinda not(though played about 4 years😅).I wanna change my guitar.so what do u say is this guitar ok for me? Everyone is saying this guitar is best for the beginners while reviewing...

[@assafsela-kohl7849]

Hey guys. Thanks a bunch for your great reviews. Would you recommend the Academy 12e for a medium level classical guitar player who's looking to start playing acoustic? Or would you recommend looking for a more advanced level acoustic? Thanks!

[@charlesbranch4120]

Yes, try it. The 12e sounds great on the "Line" model (preamp bypass) setting of my Vox Mini3 G2 amp or an acoustic guitar amp. As a beginner, I'm hanging on to my Academy series since it's fun and comfortable to hold on to, and I have no complaints about the ES-B electronics. (I'm used to a great variety of batteries for comm radios, headlamps and other devices.)

[@assafsela-kohl7849]

@@charlesbranch4120 Thanks! I ended up buying it and I really enjoy it

[@connieheep2638]

Thank You!

[@sebsuchard5940]

Is it ok for Flamenco style playing ?

[@jonmen26]

Can you review the Martin GPC X2E? I see they now have a solid top and now have a solid wood neck.

[@AlamoMusic]

Will keep that in mind!

[@Tigerex966]

Thank you.

[@AlamoMusic]

You're welcome!

[@eduardomunoz7643]

How does the academy 10e compare to a 110e

[@ezfthv3876]

Which one is better the academy 10, 12 or gs mini?

[@User51813]

They three are good in their own ways. They are all fantastic guitars. It is totally subjective I can say. It is better if you can go to a nusic store and try playing them. The best way to choose.

[@Vivekvarshekar]

Is this a perfect guitar for intermediate player who wants an upgrade? I want a versatile guitar which can handle strumming and fingerpicking very well. In India here the same guitar is selling for a price equivalent to $1250.

[@AlamoMusic]

Hmm it depends. What guitar do you have right now?

[@Vivekvarshekar]

@@AlamoMusic I own yamaha Fs100c

[@AlamoMusic]

This guitar should be a great upgrade then!

[@Snazzye]

The entire Taylor Academy line went up $50 a guitar. Even then I still think these are good guitars but when it comes to value for your money, at $549 there’s a lot of other great options to consider

[@Alan-oe7iw]

Love the 12s

[@rawvocals4227]

Which will best gs mini or acadamy

[@kylekirn5511]

What is the song on the 12 steel string?

[@AlamoMusic]

It's an original (:

[@russellweber5667]

Why doesn't the Academy 12e have a pick guard?

[@jcd13able]

Someone commented that the pickguard restricts the movement of the top and affects the sound of the guitar. He put one one later and had to take it off.

[@AdrianIrsan]

Which one sound better, academy 12e or gs mini??

[@firefightergoggie]

They still start at $1000.00 AUD here in Australia...with no case. We're so ripped off down here.

[@18percentgray]

Iam in dilemma, 10e or 12e.. any pro and cons, suggestions?

[@Christian-oi7sd]

I had a martin x series dreadnought for about 3 years until I accidentally broke it then I bought a Taylor academy 10e and it really is a great guitar but personally I liked the sound and feel of the martin better so I exchanged the academy for a road series martin. I learned thats just what I prefer but I'd reccomend the academy 10e to anyone its a great taylor for a decent price and very comfortable to hold and play

[@ajca69420]

Sigh! My guitar is a beginner guitar. Too bad, I can only afford $650 as opposed to $800 for a 110e... Hehehe! Seriously, my first brand new Taylor (and only guitar as of today) is an A10e. Been using it for 3 years now. Brought it to many Open Mics and Gigs. Has battle scars but no worries, yeah, and it never failed a poor musician dude like me.

[@AlamoMusic]

That's a good guitar!

[@moisesperez4605]

Guys I need a little help here, I’m visually impaired, Blind, he has two guitars, is the second guitar that he plays in academy 10? Can any of you let me know what Guitar is playing first, and then will guitar is playing second. I would really appreciate it

[@Mekinhumbel]

Hi Moises, he played the 10 first, then the 12, then the 12 nylon at the end.

[@moisesperez4605]

@@Mekinhumbel thank you I really appreciate it man.

[@DrewNiemannsYoutubeChann]

I suck at changing strings and mine sounds awful after I change them. So I highly recommend someone else change your strings if you also suck at changing them.

[@mns8732]

Breedlove at 275 = okay but is rather a Yamaha as a beginner.

[@Artemis_Strength]

a lot of love from INDIA ❤️ DO YOU GUYS SHIFT GUITAR TO INDIA?

[@AlamoMusic]

Yes!

[@2134yanto]

Chris. May I ask a couple of questions please? I have a basic grasp of chords (open and bar) and the fretboard. I’m still a beginner. I play basic strummed songs. But my intention is to learn fingerstyle. I only play at home on the couch, for myself. So I don’t ever see the need for electronics. I’m wondering if the Academy 12 model is suitable for my needs? I was actually thinking about a GS Mini until I watched this video. I do still want to play moderately strummed material too. Will this model handle that please? Which is more suitable for me? The Academy 12 or a GS Mini? Thanks in advance for your help Ian

[@luismedina8502]

Get the 12

[@mattmarkus4868]

Why is this only for beginners?

[@wardtaylore]

Ibanez AEWC300 Comfort Acoustic-Electric Guitar has those features..

[@nmerenfeld1]

Curious your thoughts for a beginner Taylor academy vs gs mini vs baby Taylor?

[@AlamoMusic]

If you have a very small frame, on a budget, or want a second guitar for traveling I would get the baby, If you are of medium size, and have a larger budget I would get the academy. They are both great guitars, and neither is necessarily better than the other but the academy is more expensive because it's a bit of a higher tier in the Taylor brand.

[@nmerenfeld1]

@@AlamoMusic comprehensive! And so the GS mini is...?

[@AlamoMusic]

Missed the GS Mini. The G.S. mini is more expensive than the baby so it is "better quality" in some aspects but the sound is different. So if you were picking between the baby and mini I would go based on which tone you preferred.

[@nmerenfeld1]

Thanks again. Great content 👍. I'll take the liberty of condensing for a beginner adult when cost is not a limiting factor Academy > GS mini > Baby

[@Ramentop88]

What is the song he is playing while he playing the Academy 12-N ? i hear him use it a lot but cant find the song

[@AlamoMusic]

It's an original! (:

[@Ramentop88]

I see.. Hush hush.. haha

[@notshared4072]

@@AlamoMusic I don't have much use for a t-shit, but I'd love to buy transcriptions w/ tabs for the handful of demo songs you've been using through the years. They are lovely and I don't have the patience or ear to work 'em out from watching.

[@AlamoMusic]

LOL just don't know what the name for it is (:

[@AlamoMusic]

I'll pass this message on! Thank you for letting us know this is something you'd be interested in!

[@anggalazuardian3729]

PLEASE COMPARE AND REVIEW THE PRS PARLOR P20 & P20E!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I CAN'T WAIT ANYMORE ARRRGRGRGRGRGRGHHHRHHHHHHHHH

[@ericmeddaugh3204]

I agree , calling these beginner or entry level guitars turns me off on all levels...

[@pedrocastro9718]

Would you recommend me to get a 12 string fender or Ibanez?

[@AlamoMusic]

Hmmm are you a beginner? Also what guitars do you already have?

[@9unslin9er]

They're $700+ dude...

[@TheOldMan-75]

Why are you selling all those cheaper models then?