2016 Taylor GS Mini; question on changing string size

[outwestbound]

Hi. I called Taylor about changing the stock mediums to light strings. I know that the neck was designed for the foot pounds of the mediums, so I called. Taylor guy said go ahead and change to light strings and if in a couple months the neck comes out, it would only be a very small adjustment.

I have no intention of using any other string size but light.

But not it doesn't sound right, so I wonder if the intonation is out such that I should have it adjusted at a shop. Has anyone else changed to lighter strings on the Mini and had intonation issues?

[guitarsrsoawesome]

I have a GS Mini hog and the tonal difference between the mediums and lights is dramatic.  Much better with the mediums.  I also find the guitar plays much better with the mediums, but I've become used to them and the looser string tension makes them even easy to bend if that's your thing.  One thing you could do is try light/mediums which are medium bass string and light trebles, or you may even do the reverse and try the HD strings with the light bass strings and medium trebles.  Let us know how it goes!

[TaylorGirl]

I have a GS Mini hog and the tonal difference between the mediums and lights is dramatic.  Much better with the mediums.  I also find the guitar plays much better with the mediums, but I've become used to them and the looser string tension makes them even easy to bend if that's your thing.

I agree. I thought I'd prefer lights too, but gave the mediums a try. Love them. The mediums are quite easy to get used to, because of the lower string tension. Give it a shot, you might be pleasantly surprised.

[outwestbound]

Thanks. The Mini came with and was set up to work with mediums. I just got it a couple weeks ago. I'm a beginner so I figured lights would be easier. But you all say, the tension is less due to the shorter scale, so I'm going back to the mediums to avoid problems. Even with an untrained ear, the tone is way off now with the lights. We're heading to Alaska in an RV and I'd rather avoid the guitar getting out while up there, because I've changed the strings.

I've got a Korg GA-30 and a TM-50. I need to learn how to check intonation myself so I can better diagnose issue and maintain my guitars.

[CodeBlueEMT]

 Outwardbound, The action should be checked. You can do that yourself, but I recommend taking it to a good tech if it needs adjusting. Since you use justinguitar. com here's a video on action and basic guitar set-ups: http://www.justinguitar.com/en/BC-164-SetUpGuide.php

 If the action is good, then "easier" will come with time. Are your fingertips still tender? Mediums or lights won't matter much until you develop some calluses. Do a good job restringing, tune it with the Korg, and have fun playing guitar.