11s on a GA?

[mindhorn]

Hi. I've got a new 114ce. It's nice but a bit stiff with the default 12 gauge strings.  was wondering if anyone else with a Grand Auditorium style Taylor was rocking 11s in place of 12s or has done it as an experiment.

[StrummingMadMan]

I’ve experimented with all sorts of gauges. I ultimately settled on HD Lights for a guitar with that body size. But if you like the feel and sound of 11’s, rock on. I slap on set and see what you think.

[Der Geist]

I’ve experimented with all sorts of gauges. I ultimately settled on HD Lights for a guitar with that body size. But if you like the feel and sound of 11’s, rock on. I slap on set and see what you think.

What was the manufacture date?  It could be that the strings that came on it are already old.  It’s not unusual for guitars to sit anywhere from a few months to a year (or longer) before being sold.  The original strings may have also gone through 3 time zones and 8 weather zones before getting to you.  You can easily do 11’s but you will trade off volume and maybe some tone.  The 11’s will no doubt be easier to bend but other than that I really can’t see a reason to step down.

[bukarew]

The 11's wont be as loud as what you are used to, but it will still sound good.  I have them on my 512ce, just to make it play a little easier. It wouldn't hurt to try them a while, go back heavier if you don't like it that way.

[mindhorn]

I restrung it with Martin phosphor bronze 11s. Much better to my ears. Better bass which was a surprse. Much less clangy in sound. I left it overnight and it's settled really well. Lower action. All in all a much less stressed guitar that sounds more woody than it did. Going to stick with the 11s and I'd recommend anyone to them on this model.