PRS S2 models?

[BloodRose]

How are the PRS S2 models?? I mean, I know with PRS, they are prolly built well. But Im wondering if they are a noticable improvement over the SE line , or not really. Ive played a bunch of SEs and am always impressed. And to be quite honest, usually like the feel of them better than most of the top line PRS' Ive played. (neck shape and such) I especially like the Dave Navarro one. But anyhow, Ive never had the chance to play any of the new S2 models. Visually and spec wise, this one catches my attention:

https://wildwestguitars.com/electric/prs-s2-standard-24-satin-charcoal


I just wonder if they are really much better than the SE's tho for the money..
Any thoughts or input would be appreciated.

For anyone that might be interested, this is a pretty cool one too..

https://wildwestguitars.com/electric/prs-s2-singlecut-standard-satin-charcoal

 

[orpheo]

Re: PRS S2 models?

I kinda liked them. I like them better (more? not sure which word I should choose) than the regular lineup.

still... in Europe, they're more expensive than in the USA and for the EU market, my guitars are cheaper with more options for the same price point.

 

[jmh151]

Re: PRS S2 models?

The're using the same wood PRS uses on their core line- the mahogany- and the maple just isn't as pretty as that which is used on the core line. That's the biggest improvement over the SE Line.

While the SE Line is good, it also suffers from what every import does- they use "mystery mahogany" on it , not the same quality as the US line, but still good.

Fretwire on the S2's I believe is Jescar- the same as the core line, which is much, much harder and longer lasting than the fretwire used on import guitars, including PRS's SE line.

Basically the S2 line is a utilitarian/ workhorse PRS.

 

[BloodRose]

Re: PRS S2 models?

Yeah, I know they are US made and "workhorse" line with out the frills so they are more affordable. The info you gave me about the fretwire is very helpful. didnt know that and it makes a diff. I know the better woods do too.

 

[ex-250]

Re: PRS S2 models?

Really looking forward to trying one of the new satin S2s, particularly the singlecut. I've really enjoyed PRS' designs over the last several years but the thick glossy finishes always turn me off. Which can be said for a great many guitars anyhow. This seems to be the perfect remedy, I've been drooling over the brown/natural ones.

 

[B2D]

Re: PRS S2 models?

Until recently I owned a PRS Custom 24. I've also played many SE's and a few S2's.

The S2's and better than the SE's, but they lack a quality that makes it feel and respond like a Top-of-the-line PRS. I don't know how to describe it, but a full-up PRS has a certain balanced quality that just isn't present in the S2's.

It's a much bigger gap than say, a MIM Fender and an MIA Fender. Except I enjoy playing MIM Fenders and S2's just don't really endear themselves to me.

YMMV.

 

[JeffB]

Re: PRS S2 models?

SEs are upper echelon for their price point. Built well, play great, get a fine tooth comb check in MD. Between local sourced wood, electronics,and hardware, they just don't do it for me.

S2s on the other hand cut a few corners, but not nearly to the same degree. Its mostly aesthetics, and the neck (IMO/IME the care given to the core line electric necks is worth the additional cost). They still use a much higher quality wood than SE models, and are put together extremely well. Aesthetically I hate the beveled flat tops. Super ugly, and a deal breaker for me. I hated it on my core Starla, and still do. YMMV.

 

[BloodRose]

Re: PRS S2 models?

Im def not a fan of the beveled top either. Carvin has one model like that too and it's one of my least fav by them. But, one (veryhard) lesson I learned a few year back when I went through my guitar flipping phase, is that some of the small details that used to nag me can keep me from some awesome players.. Example.. I had an LTD EC400AT. Wasnt a fan of the gold top but bought it cuz it was a great deal. (I overcame that obstacle), BUT.. it had 3 knobs and I prefer the typical vol/tone, vol/tone on a guitar like that. Sold it. Regretted ever since cuz it played great, sustained for decades and sounded amazing, and one of my fav things about it, it had jumbo frets, which is not common on a single cut like that... They stopped making the model and they dont come up for sale often and when they do, I dont have the $ to get one. there has been a black one on the bay forever, but its a bit pricey and I dont have the $$,nor do I need another guit. I had a limited run Dean Soltero, same thing. >>>>kicks self again<<<<<<<<

 

[bloodswords]

Re: PRS S2 models?

I've had good run-ins with the S2s & my latest acquisition is this Vela right here. In my opinion, the QC on show pretty much preserves the PRS standards but they could do better with the pickups.

 

[jmh151]

Re: PRS S2 models?

I've had good run-ins with the S2s & my latest acquisition is this Vela right here. In my opinion, the QC on show pretty much preserves the PRS standards but they could do better with the pickups.

The pickups and tuners are Korean made from what I hear.

 

[bloodswords]

Re: PRS S2 models?

Yes they are. Pickups- same manufacturer of Korean Schecters.

 

[Artie]

Re: PRS S2 models?

Those look sweet, but I gotta admit, the control layout on that first one seems a bit odd.

 

[Scott_F]

PRS S2 models?

I have owned several PRSi over the years. The one that got away was an all black McCarty soapie that I grabbed used for $900. The neck needed a severe rehydration. So much so, I thought I had gotten screwed when I first opened the box. I ended up getting rid of that one in search of something prettier. Never found one that played or sounded as good. The rosewood necked "deep blue sea" McCarty was a stunner and a player. Should have kept it. The only PrS I own now are SE. I look forward to playing an S2.

 

[some_dude]

Re: PRS S2 models?

I drove around town sampling PRS' today. I'm no expert on them, just some dude who played a few guitars while looking for something to buy.

I really liked the S2 Custom 24 I played today. I was able to compare the S2 to the SE and Core versions, went back and forth for around an hour, and IMO it generally captured the vibe of the Core version at around half the cost. If I were a PRS guy looking for a workhorse I'd rather the S2 over the SE as I think it does a better job of hitting the mark both sonically and in terms of playability (particularly the improved fretwork).

FWIW - YMMV

 

[bloodswords]

Re: PRS S2 models?

I also own the S2 Singlecut Standard. Not a fan of the pickups.