Calling all PRS SE tremolo users...

[krankguitarist]

I'm thinkin about picking up a PRS SE with a tremolo here within the next few months or so. I've been playing a few in guitar stores around the area and I'm diggin the way they feel...they get pretty close to the way my McCarty and Singlecut feel. I've been wanting to get a guitar with a tremolo again, but I don't wanna shell out a whole lot, and I want to avoid floyds.

Anywho, I was wondering if anybody could tell me their opinions on the tremolos. Do they stay in tune well? I wouldn't be looking to do crazy dive-bombing. Does anybody know if they're the same tremolo bridges that they use on the US models, or just a cheaper variant?

Anywho, thanks in advance.

 

[Gearjoneser]

Re: Calling all PRS SE tremolo users...

They look like a slightly cruder version of what comes on US PRS's, so I'm assuming that the setup is all that matters. Luckily, the graphite nuts are already stock, and are preslotted pretty smooth.

I'd imagine that a perfect intonation job, a perfect nut, and a nicely floating bridge will suffice. It means that you'll be able to have a functional vibrato, but as usual, won't be able to divebomb like you can on a double locking trem.

What I've found with the SE's is that they're very good for the price, and if you cherrypick one, you'll find one that beats it's pricetag. I'd first find one that resonates like your US versions, buy it, then work on the setup till it's just as good as any US PRS.

 

[veryhungrycaterpilla]

Re: Calling all PRS SE tremolo users...

The nut is an Achilles heel for any PRS SE, especially the trem models. You will want to have a USA PRS nut installed and then locking tuners-I think grover minis fit.

Unfortunately, the SE craftsmanship has seemed to have slipped over the last 18 months or so. You may need to look hard for one that has that "mojo". There are ones out there and they are sweet.

 

[krankguitarist]

Re: Calling all PRS SE tremolo users...

I hear ya, I know a tech around here who does great work, so getting a new nut is no big deal.

Found a used soapbar SE for around 270 dollars that plays and sounds friggin amazing. But, it's a hardtail. I'd pick it up if I had a little more disposable cash, but for now I gotta hold out for a tremolo version. I got too many hard tails as it is.