GA/x14 vs. GC/x12 Size - Comfort Factor

[reevus]

I'm pondering Taylor's a GA or GC sized guitar - in particular, as an older (OK - old!) guy, I'm wondering if the smaller sized GC would have a markedly greater level of comfort relative to the right shoulder (I'm a right-hander).  I suppose the shorter scale of the GC size might help with the left wrist some, but I'm wondering specifically about the shouler impact of the smaller body (an inch less at the lower bout and slightly fatter depthwise) - and whether that difference is really significant.

Any insights would be helpful.

Thanks.

[lmacmil]

I'm old and "vertically challenged."  I can tell the difference between my GA3 and my Larrivee OM (15 1/4" lower bout).  The Larrivee is definitely more comfortable to play sitting down.

[andyi5]

I think it is significant. There's an inch difference between the two guitars in the width across the lower bout, and if you're sitting playing on the sofa this quickly gets to be quite noticeable. The GC (15") isn't so much wider than the GSmini (14 3/8")... on the other hand the GA (16") isn't much narrower than the GS (16 1/4") or even the GO (16 3/4).

I have a GC3 and really appreciate the size and shorter scale of the guitar. I do also think the Larrivee OM just mentioned is a great size.

[reevus]

I'm old and "vertically challenged."  I can tell the difference between my GA3 and my Larrivee OM (15 1/4" lower bout).  The Larrivee is definitely more comfortable to play sitting down.

I happened to be looking at Larrivee specs after I posted that question - it seems the Larrivee OM's are only 1/8" less deep than the GA3, and maybe 5/8" wider at the lower bout (at least currently, they are listed at 15.375") - so not a giant difference.  You wouldn't think it would feel like much, so it's interesting that it obviously makes a difference to you.  Thanks.

Now the GC is even smaller I believe, so may be even a more noticeable feeling.

[DennisG]

I own both a GC and a GA, and while I notice a difference, I wouldn't call it hugely significant.  But that's just me.  The only way you're ever going to get this question answered in any meaningful way is to spend some time with each size and see what your body tells you.

[Edward]

Yeah, FWIW, I'd agree that the difference is significant in terms of comfort.  Assuming you're playing seated of course, the GC's smaller dimensions overall really does "relax" my body and allow me to "envelope" the guitar more.  The GC is the only body I reach for when I know I'm just gonna lounge for a while with the guit.  Otherwise, it's the bigger-bodied brethren.

Edward

[cedarkoa599]

I would do a BTO in a GA shape with the arm rest then your shoulder will love it and your ears will love the power and sound of the GA

[reevus]

I'll have to look at what the "arm rest" is - sounds like it ia part of the guitar?

[ctkarslake]

An arm rest is a built-in part of the guitar but it's only available as a BTO (build your own) model, very $$$.