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Description

Experience the harmonious blend of craftsmanship and sound with the Taylor GS8-12, a 12-string acoustic marvel that caters to both left-handed and right-handed musicians. Designed by the legendary Bob Taylor, this guitar features the grand symphony body style, offering a unique and resonant sound profile. The GS8-12 is not just about looks; it delivers a sonic experience that combines deep, piano-like bass, rich mids, and crisp highs, all wrapped in a robust volume that fills any room.

Crafted with a solid Sitka spruce top, the GS8-12 stands out with its lush Indian rosewood back and sides, promising durability and a warm tonal quality. The attention to detail is evident in its striking aesthetics—gold-plated tuners, ivoroid body and fretboard binding, and a stunning abalone rosette. The bound ebony fretboard and ebony bridge not only add to its visual appeal but also enhance playability and sustain.

Whether you're strumming in a cozy coffeehouse or performing on a grand stage, the Taylor GS8-12 offers a captivating auditory experience that resonates with players and audiences alike. Its distinctive tonal characteristics make it an essential addition to any guitarist's collection, while its elegant design ensures it stands as a work of art in its own right.

Key Features:

  • Solid Sitka spruce top
  • Indian rosewood back and sides
  • Grand symphony body style
  • Gold-plated tuners
  • Ivoroid body and fretboard binding
  • Abalone rosette
  • Bound ebony fretboard and bridge
  • 12-string configuration

Product specs

Brand Taylor
Model GS8-12
Year 2009 - 2012
Made In United States
Categories 12-String Acoustic Guitars, Jumbo Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Rosewood
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 GS8
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 12-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Taylor Acoustic Series
Sides Material Rosewood
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the back and sides of the Taylor GS8-12?

The Taylor GS8-12 features Indian rosewood for the back and sides, which provides a rich, resonant tone with strong bass and clear treble.

How does the Grand Symphony body shape affect the sound of the Taylor GS8-12?

The Grand Symphony body shape of the Taylor GS8-12 offers a powerful, full-bodied sound with enhanced volume and sustain, making it ideal for both strumming and fingerstyle playing.

Is the Taylor GS8-12 suitable for live performances?

The Taylor GS8-12 does not have a built-in pickup, making it more suitable for acoustic settings unless an external pickup is added for amplification during live performances.

What is the scale length of the Taylor GS8-12, and how does it affect playability?

The Taylor GS8-12 has a 25-1/2" scale length, offering a comfortable string tension and spacing that supports both fingerstyle and strumming techniques.

Does the Taylor GS8-12 come with a case?

Yes, the Taylor GS8-12 includes a Taylor hardshell case, providing excellent protection for the guitar during transport and storage.

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2010 Taylor GS8-12

Video thumbnail for 2010 Taylor GS8-12 by krispood

2010 Taylor GS8-12

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Video thumbnail for 2011 Taylor GS8-12 by krispood

2011 Taylor GS8-12

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Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Taylor GS8-12.

Build quality

  • GS8 models have varying back and side wood widths, making each guitar's resonance unique.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • GS8 lacks cutaway and electronics, aligning it closely with the 814 model but more obscure due to limited production years.

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Use cases and applications

  • Preferred by players of Tommy Emmanuel and Chet Atkins styles who don't require access beyond the 12th fret.

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Value and pricing

  • Models like the GSRS from 2006, featuring Rosewood Sitka, are rarer finds and may be priced attractively in mint condition.

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User experience

  • Owners report that Taylor GS8 cases can be notably snug, requiring extra effort to close, which some prefer for preventing movement during transport.

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  • Some users enjoy the snug fit of the Taylor cases, appreciating the secure hold it provides for the guitar.

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Comparisons

  • The Grand Symphony (GS) case is slightly larger, approximately 1/4 inch deeper and 1/2 inch wider on the lower bout, compared to the Grand Auditorium (GA) case.

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Setup and maintenance

  • It's suggested to verify case dimensions with Taylor directly to ensure proper fit for the Grand Symphony model.

    Source

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