Taylor GS Mini (guitar):
The tone is rich and full comparable to the high end Taylors or Martins. The playablity is better than my Martin D28. I got the Mini as my travel guitar but it essentially is my go to guitar at home now as well. It has a smaller body, thinner neck and more comfortable to play.
It is a great value and if I was learning to play all over again, this would be my choice since it will last you past that beginner phase when you don't know the difference b/w a good versus bad guitar and more concerned about price.
Frankly, Taylor must use some advanced technology or have scale to price it where it does because the material and craftsmanship is worth more than the $500US they charge at least compared to similiarly priced axes out there.