I would recommend the 414-LTD because the GA model will be a little more comfortable for your father -- unless your father is 6' tall or over. The 414 and the GS8 both have rosewood with sitka top and will sound very similar -- the GS a tad more bass, the 414 will still have a nice rich sound. The slightly smaller GA style really shines in the fingerpicking dept.
And, BTW, very nice gift for your father -- he'll be very proud and thankful, I'm sure! Nice going.
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Ken
2006 Martin 0000-28H
2001 Taylor Baby-R
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