$1200 available for 1 guitar

The Dali

MeltedClockologist
Selling off excess gear (a few lower cost guitars, amps, etc) and will have a little over $1000 -$1200 for 1 nicer guitar. Used of course. Was looking at the PRS S2 line. I have a USA Strat and a nice SG. Open to anything else. Ive owned everything but a PRS in my past... so curious.

Like to stay in USA-made territory.

Thoughts/suggestions?


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All three would be a great option, depending on what you wanted. If one of the S2 PRS’ are calling your name I’d go that route.
 
Quick thoughts: with a $1200 budget, USA-Made PRS might be tough to find for specific models, even the S2 series used.

However, the newer PRS SE/S2 models are still fantastic instruments, but the American-made Core models are on a whole other level (which is part of the reason most of them are $2K+, even used).

This being said, I was still able to find a lot of S2 models on reverb for sale in that price range, but I personally do not have any experience with any of those.

Funny thing is I used to not care for PRS guitars at all, but my only experience with them was an old SE that wasn't set up properly lol. Now one of my favorite guitars is a Core McCarty.
 
To clarify, i already have a US strat and SG so looking to pick up something to compliment them.


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But... i hadn’t thought of the charvel option, which i like ... i might have enough to squeeze 2 out if the budget..,


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Still looking at options.

Might look for a Gibson studio Goldtop.

Also looking at carvin... and I’ve seen some really attractive Godin options.


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Still looking at options.

Might look for a Gibson studio Goldtop.

Also looking at carvin... and I’ve seen some really attractive Godin options.


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custom guitar from Keisel would be awesome
careful with the options though it adds up quick

the thinner neck option makes for a shredder neck

I was looking for one with a Piezo option in that range
the PRS SE Hollowbody Piezo clicked the boxes
but the neck being thicker and wider at the nut just arent what I want

for me
the ESP SC1000 Piezo
has the 42 mm nut width and the Skinny shredder neck I like
as well as duncan pickups stock
for $1149 list
 
I'd get a classic of some kind. Or a future classic while it's still affordable. Maybe an Ernie Ball Axis? Same guitar as the EVH model. Great guitar. Great pickups. Floyd Rose. Looks cool. And designed by Ed. Mine has a push/pull volume control that the previous owner installed. Those pickups split into single coils better than any humbuckers I've ever owned.
 
With $1200, I'd look for a good used Les Paul Standard (add in some more $$$ for it), or possibly a nice Charvel, or an EVH Striped Series in Black and White scheme (would definitely need to add extra $$$).
 
I'd get a classic of some kind. Or a future classic while it's still affordable. Maybe an Ernie Ball Axis? Same guitar as the EVH model. Great guitar. Great pickups. Floyd Rose. Looks cool. And designed by Ed. Mine has a push/pull volume control that the previous owner installed. Those pickups split into single coils better than any humbuckers I've ever owned.

Holee Guacamole! Those guitars aren't going for the $1200 I paid for mine anymore! Way over $2500 and more now. Better start taking better care of mine.
 
Holee Guacamole! Those guitars aren't going for the $1200 I paid for mine anymore! Way over $2500 and more now. Better start taking better care of mine.

Yup. Prices went way up long time ago. When it was the EVH model, it was $1299.00 new. I should've gotten one then.
 
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In terms of USA-made, the PRS S2 line is solid for newer production. From first hand experience, I think the newer S2 Singlecut with the Core-series intonatable fixed bridge is the sweet spot in the line in terms of features and looks for the price. Used CE models are also an option in that range and every one I've played has been great.

A used G&L or Carvin is always a safe bet. You could also grab a newer Kiesel in that price range if you look around.

If you get along with the style of Ernie Balls, older ones tend to fall within that range and are almost always stellar.

Lastly, take a look at used Washburns. Their body styles aren't for everyone, but you can often find great USA Custom Shop models on the used market for under a grand.
 
Hi everyone - great stuff here. Thanks! I am not interested in a Strat, I already have a nice US strat. I am intrigued by G&L but I have to admit, they seem like a sompany that supports its overseas manufacturing by making a few US models.

I hope to run to local Guitar Center while it is open and take a look at some of these models. Right now I'm leaning toward a PRS S2 singlecut or a Gibson LP Tribute, but I do want to look at other models as well. I really like V and and Explorers as well.

Yeah, crazy how expensive guitars have become. PRS made in Indonesia SE guitars are $799 - $1000. Gibson satin finish guitars are $899 - $1200. Epiphone MIC guitars are now $599 for standards up to $1000.
 
G&L supports their import line because they want them to be solid and well respected instruments, and they are. They get USA electronics and are set up at the USA shop before going out to shops. Their USA stuff is amazing but I would not turn down a Tribute line model.

Epiphone has gotten more and more solid as of late. I really like the 2020 models, especially the LP Modern. Incredible value there. I'm seriously considering one of those for myself. I mean, just look at this! https://www.epiphone.com/Guitar/EPIK3B779/Les-Paul-Modern/Graphite-Black
 
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