Semi-Blind Taste Test. Go to a store where there's a large selection of Taylors from the 100 series on up. Sit down and have someone (friend or salesman) hand you different Taylors to play, mixing the less expensive with the higher dollar models. Try not to pay attention to the guitar except playability and tone. Avoid looking at the price tag. Also, make sure they have been tuned up in 440 before they are handed to you. The reason they should be tuned to 440 is, if they are tuned down a step or so, they will play much easier and not give you a good feel for the true playability. After you have played each and have separated your favorites, check what models and price you have selected.
A friend and I did this about six weeks ago at a local Sam Ash. It was a real eye opener. I didn't mix in guitars other than Taylors, but you could.
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