Congrats on your new guitar! You have a fine guitar, that, as Cotten said, is many times over better than what many of us started with. I didn't have anything close to the quality of the Academy series for a few decades! Yamahas does make some good guitars at very reasonable prices, but you were right to search for a guitar that is comfortable for you. You'll want to play it and be able to play it longer without fatigue. I think Taylor has really done a service to new players in bringing out this line.
I like to support independent shops when I can too, but the one local one has an extremely limited selection. Our local GC is pretty small, but still has a lot more to offer, and my experiences there have always been good.
Congrats again on your new guitar. There are lots of helpful people here, so don't be afraid to ask questions. We've all been beginners at some point. Enjoy the journey!
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"Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans."-John Lennon
2015 Taylor 512ce 12 fret
early 80's Ovation Ultra 1517
2011 Seagull Entourage Rustic
2011 Taylor Limited NS214ce
2010 Taylor 512c
2016 Ibanez AG75
2014 Taylor GS Mini Koa e
2018 Loar LH 301t
1998 Breedlove Fall Limited # 10 of 20 Redwood/Walnut
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