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Average Price: $1,871

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$200

$601+

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Description

The Taylor GS5 is an acoustic marvel, crafted for the discerning musician who values both precision and passion. This Grand Symphony steel-string acoustic guitar is a testament to Taylor's dedication to innovation and quality. With its refined design, the GS5 produces a robust sound with a rich, piano-like bass and a full midrange that resonates beautifully whether strummed or fingerpicked.

Crafted with a top of Western Red Cedar and back and sides of Tropical American Mahogany, the GS5 offers a tonal warmth that complements its bold projection. The forward-shifted X-bracing enhances this projection, providing a dynamic range that fills any space with vibrant sound. The body shape, with its elegantly rounded lower bout and subtle waist, is not only visually appealing but also acoustically optimized for maximum sound output.

Taylor's commitment to a simple yet striking aesthetic is evident in the GS5's understated appointments. The ivoroid binding, abalone rosette, and microdot fretboard inlays add a touch of elegance without overshadowing the guitar's natural beauty. This instrument is a perfect blend of tradition and modern craftsmanship, making it a versatile choice for any musician looking to explore a wide tonal palette.

Key Features:

  • Top Wood: Western Red Cedar
  • Back and Sides Wood: Tropical American Mahogany
  • Body Type: 6-string Grand Symphony
  • Scale Length: 25 1/2"
  • Nut/Saddle: Tusq
  • Tuners: Taylor Gold
  • Bridge Pins: Ebony with Abalone Dot
  • Finish: Gloss on top and back/sides, Satin on neck
  • Binding: Ivoroid (body, fretboard, heel cap)
  • Inlays: 4 mm Abalone Dots on Fretboard

Product specs

Brand Taylor
Model GS5
Finish Mahogany Burst, Natural
Year 2006 - 2012
Made In United States
Categories Jumbo Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Mahogany
Body Shape Grand Symphony
Color Family Brown, Natural, Tan
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony
Model Family Taylor GS
Model Sub-Family Taylor GS5
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Taylor Acoustic Series
Sides Material Mahogany
String Type Steel
Top Material Cedar
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the Taylor GS5's top, and how does it affect the sound?

The Taylor GS5 features a cedar top, which is known for its warm, mellow tone and responsiveness to a lighter touch, making it ideal for fingerstyle playing.

How does the Grand Symphony body shape of the Taylor GS5 influence its sound?

The Grand Symphony body shape provides a rich, full sound with enhanced bass response and volume, making it suitable for a wide range of musical styles.

Is the Taylor GS5 a good choice for live performances?

While the Taylor GS5 does not come with a built-in pickup, it delivers excellent acoustic projection and can be fitted with a pickup system for amplified performances.

What is the neck material of the Taylor GS5, and how does it affect playability?

The Taylor GS5 features a mahogany neck, which offers stability and a smooth playing experience, complementing the guitar's warm tonal characteristics.

Does the Taylor GS5 have a gloss finish, and what are its benefits?

Yes, the Taylor GS5 has a gloss finish that enhances the guitar's aesthetic appeal and provides added protection to the wood, contributing to its durability.

rockongoodpeople

rockongoodpeople

Learn guitar Taylor GS5 acoustic electric guitar demo part1

Video thumbnail for Learn guitar Taylor GS5 acoustic electric guitar demo part1 by rockongoodpeople

Learn guitar Taylor GS5 acoustic electric guitar demo part1

rockongoodpeople

rockongoodpeople

Video thumbnail for Taylor GS5 learn acoustic electric guitars demo lesson part2 by rockongoodpeople

Taylor GS5 learn acoustic electric guitars demo lesson part2

rockongoodpeople

rockongoodpeople

Video thumbnail for Taylor GS5 Grand Symphony Acoustic Guitar by jimlaabsmusic

Taylor GS5 Grand Symphony Acoustic Guitar

jimlaabsmusic

jimlaabsmusic

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Taylor GS5.

Setup and maintenance

  • The bubbling finish around the tuners could be covered under Taylor's warranty, especially if you're the original owner.

    Source
  • Tuning the GS5 down to D standard with heavier gauge strings (13s) reduces fret buzz and enhances the low tuning capabilities.

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  • Sanding down the bridge and adjusting the truss rod can significantly improve playability by lowering the action.

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  • For assessing internal damage, using a dentist's mirror is recommended to inspect for loose bracing, especially if the guitar appears dropped.

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Value and pricing

  • Difficulty in finding GS5 models on resale platforms like Reverb suggests rarity or niche market; local valuations may vary significantly.

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  • A GS5 priced at $550 USD is considered a significant bargain, even with potential cosmetic or minor structural issues.

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User experience

  • Owners report that Taylor's customer service often addresses finish issues generously, potentially enhancing long-term satisfaction.

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  • Owners find the GS5's sound captivating initially but often require action adjustments for optimal playability.

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  • It's suggested to meet locally and visually inspect the guitar to verify condition, as photos may not reveal all potential damage.

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Use cases and applications

  • The GS5 excels in fingerstyle playing due to its rich tone, even when tuned to D standard or D flat standard.

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  • Aggressive strumming at standard tuning might cause thinness in tone, which is mitigated by tuning down and using heavier strings.

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  • The GS5 provides dreadnought-like volume without excessive boominess, making it suitable for balanced sound in various playing styles.

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Build quality

  • Some owners note the GS5 has a robust build despite visible cosmetic wear, suggesting durability even with surface imperfections like scratches or dents.

    Source

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Genre Usage

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