Modifying a PRS SE Custom 24 - Why you would, What you should do and how to do it!

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 12 มิ.ย. 2024
  • Hey all! I bought a PRS SE Custom 24 with the specific idea of modding it to be my primary gigging guitar if gigs ever come back.
    I thought it might be helpful to document the process and offer instruction and tips in case you're interested in modding your own PRS SE Cu24.
    A lot of these tips are also applicable for other guitars if you're interested in similar mods.
    A quick note: Lots of online guides suggest replacing the bridge in an SE. Not only have I had 0 issues with the bridge after a month (tuning stability and the trem have been great!) but it feels and operates at a high level. I don't think (as of right now) that it's a mandatory mod.
    Time stamps and helpful links below!
    Let me know if I can improve on anything and thank you for watching!
    Time Stamps for those who want to see a specific part!
    0:00 Intro Skit
    1:20 The guitar and how was it out of the box?
    2:29 Why buy a PRS SE over other options and why mod it?
    4:27 What mods did I do, what mods do I suggest?
    6:35 Cost comparison between modding and buying an S2/similar priced guitars
    8:09 Part 2 start/ What do you need to do these mods?
    9:12 Strap Locks mod
    10:10 Locking tuners mod
    11:48 Changing the pickups
    16:34 Final thoughts
    17:00 Sound Demo
    Two guitar setup videos that are much better/ more comprehensive than I could do:
    #Music is win:
    • The Complete DIY Guita...
    This video is the best at balancing information with efficiency
    #Riverton Guitars
    • Video
    This video is really good at going into detail on setting up a floating classic trem style guitar like the Cu24
    The correct wiring diagram from Seymour Duncan for this project, but also completely applicable with other humbuckers with the same wiring style which most are these days.
    www.seymourduncan.com/images/...
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ความคิดเห็น • 312

  • @Lovell93
    @Lovell93 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Not a fan of PRS? How!?!?! I just recently bought my first PRS SE(I'm a Strat/Tele/Ibanez RG guy) and ever since I purchased the 24-08, I haven't touched my other guitars, and they're MIA/MIJ!!! PRS is killing it with the SE. I can only imagine how amazing a core model is. Purchasing one soon. PRS is my new favorite!

  • @matnasa8292
    @matnasa8292 3 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    This guys gigging guitar would be my trophy guitar

    • @creationinspired200
      @creationinspired200 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Thats how its suppose to be! I used to keep all my guitars in cases my father did the same before me and yet ive found so much more fun and love for my instruments having them around its like having an old Ferrari if you only take it out on weekends then its not justifying ownership as the old quote goes "own the ______, dont let the ______ own you" so use it! Worst comes to worst you invest a slight bit of money into a re coat of lacquer or poly whatever was used if you love the guitar and dont ever intend on selling it then its worth it and especially if its a high dollar instrument let that baby breathe and make some sweet music with it! Even better yet as hes done use it gigging then everyone gets to appreciate it and trust me youll get noticed so much more with a flashy guitar especially if you can play said flashy guitar! Rock on you all 🤘🏻👊🏼

  • @joefromaccounting7818
    @joefromaccounting7818 3 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    Duncan pickups and PRS guitars are a match made in heaven! Makes sense why Mark Holcomb picked that combo too

  • @russellcrea9701
    @russellcrea9701 3 ปีที่แล้ว +33

    Things I did with 85/15s pickups - cost: $0. 1. lowered them almost to the mounting rings. 2. dialed all tone controls on my amp down about 20% and use the volume and tone on the guitar to tailor to songs. They sound more vintage and rounder now, not as harsh and crispy. Also rotated both pups still attached in their mounting rings 180*. Simply unscrew the 4 screws per ring, flip them around and put back in. I did have to pull the extra lead wire from the switch cavity to reach. Now the single coil bridge has more body and the middle position split has quack like a Strat in the 2 or 4 position. I also suggest raising the pole pieces on the wound strings. It helps even tone with the unwound strings and gives more snap to the low E and A strings. In the end, what amp, effects, settings etc. you're playing through will have more affect on tone than which pickups are in a guitar.

    • @abullen1564
      @abullen1564 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Thanks for sharing!! On my 8/5/15s I just did the lowering and turning down tone controls on the amp and it seems like it helped. Certainly feels more expressive and I'm getting better smooth tube breakup sounds.

    • @Wheelchairup
      @Wheelchairup 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      I am new to guitar and just got my first PRS. At first the sound caught me off guard. I turned all effects off my amp and eq to noon position and then dialed in a great tone for the PRS. I love it now, but have wondered what raising the poles would do. Hadn’t thought about flipping them as well...thank you, this gave me some ideas for when the time comes!

    • @joeking433
      @joeking433 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      LOL!

  • @waynemiller6462
    @waynemiller6462 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Always wanted a PRS. Always loved the craftsmanship and sound.

  • @Zoso7227
    @Zoso7227 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Awesome review. I appreciate you also not defending that you don’t like the pickups and get mad. I’ll end up probably doing this down the line. Thanks for making this video!

  • @luciansirbu1784
    @luciansirbu1784 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This is video is great, high quality and very useful...thank you so much, exactly what I needed

  • @xDirtyHarry1971
    @xDirtyHarry1971 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Glad I found this. Best help video for this DYI project. Thanks a bunch.

  • @BigMurph45
    @BigMurph45 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Nice! I did what you did on my Tremonti SE but added core PRS lampshade knobs. Took it up a notch on an old Singlecut with some Fishman Classic Humbuckers and a new GT tusq nut along with PRS locking tuners and PRS knobs. The mods are worth it IMO. It gives you core quality sound with SE Cost! Great Video! 🤘🏼

    • @joeking433
      @joeking433 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      LOL!

  • @angrybuzzy
    @angrybuzzy 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for the video, Colton. Very helpful.

  • @rocklives8251
    @rocklives8251 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I shopped Reverb for my SE, got a great one for 550$, then swapped the tuners and pickups. JB neck Pearly Gates bridge. It's now my number 1 guitar. Best feeling neck I've ever played.

    • @whiskerandojoe
      @whiskerandojoe 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      i can't seem to find a video with PRS and pearly gate bridge that's what i was thinking and wanted to hear. Would you consider doing a sample just letting some tones ring out or something?

    • @stevescuba1978
      @stevescuba1978 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@whiskerandojoe it would be quite different depending on which amp, but I get tones quite similar to Billy Gibbons through my VHT special 6 ultra with a little boost. I can really push that amp hard with pearly gates in the bridge, mine is a custom 22 semi-hollow.
      The tones on the Seymour Duncan site are close to what mine sound like, and are probably better audio than anything I could upload

  • @KoshNaranick
    @KoshNaranick 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    buddy.. you sir are my hero.. I needed to see this big time!

  • @joegonz1983
    @joegonz1983 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    What a great video man. I have a 2010 25th anniversary SE. and a couple of months ago put the same pickups. Next will be the tuners. Feels like a new guitar. Also my other guitar is a majesty and 100% with you.

  • @creationinspired200
    @creationinspired200 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Very convenient the timing of this coming on right after a prs video and as im looking to upgrade my prs both american models and import models thank you sir!

  • @robruenes
    @robruenes 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video, thanks for sharing this!

  • @spca663littleb9
    @spca663littleb9 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for sharing the video with us. 👍

  • @bfiume
    @bfiume 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video that came at a perfect time. Thanks much

  • @douglasvaughn9349
    @douglasvaughn9349 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video! Love PRS guitars 🎸.

  • @huuss
    @huuss 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    have one since 2013 and love it changed my pickups and tuners with locking tuners also which are Schaller m6 minis

  • @DerekPaulGuitar
    @DerekPaulGuitar 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nice video and that’s a great guitar, been looking at a PRS, nice man!

  • @MattMacKo
    @MattMacKo 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I am swapping my stock pups from my PRS SE Tremonti Custom to Seymour Duncan Saturday Night Specials. Your video explanation on the process confirmed what I thought I was gonna need to do.

    • @DavidMorales008
      @DavidMorales008 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I just got a Tremonti SE, would you recommend the Saturday Night Specials

    • @MattMacKo
      @MattMacKo 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@DavidMorales008 sure! I liked the stock pups, and I also like the SNS as well

  • @goon_time
    @goon_time 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Great video! Thinking about doing the same to my new SE. I have that same pickup config in a Jackson (stock mj dinky) and it really sings. Would love to have that same range in this PRS. Thanks for making the vid on your upgrades!

  • @rainshadowband3161
    @rainshadowband3161 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Was about to facepalm somebody modifying a PRS Custom 24. Have a 1994 version, fully stock, and wouldn't change a thing about it, though I understand some people are not fans of the 5 way rotary pickup selector. Then I realized I had dyslexia and didn't read the "SE" part of the title of this video. Lol. My philosophy on modding guitars is that anything that cost you less than $1,500 is fair game. Starting around the $2,000 mark, I'm thinking "Why would you spend that much on a guitar you're gonna mod anyway?" Mid-priced guitars like in this video and budget guitars are great to mod anyway you like. Personally, I wouldn't trade my 1994 PRS Custom 24 for any amount of these mid-price or budget guitars, but that's mostly because of sentimental value.
    Great video btw. Looks like a versatile beast of a guitar :)

  • @al6377
    @al6377 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Amazing intro to the video 😂, that is soooo much me!

  • @Dad-Gad
    @Dad-Gad 3 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    I changed the pickups in my PRS se twice ! They are 4 conductor for the coil split , so remember if your new pickups have only 2 wires make sure you know which wire is earth and live first 👍

    • @coltonriver4456
      @coltonriver4456  3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Rob Phillips very good point! I should have put that in the video. Thank you for the comment and the tip!

  • @Theweeze100
    @Theweeze100 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have one too! Love it, came with 85/15’s…not bad.
    Great Post…I subscribed!!!

  • @sanjozeke6605
    @sanjozeke6605 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Really helpful and simple!

  • @OscarBenben
    @OscarBenben 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    That’s what I did too ! Nice to see it’s not so stupid and I’m not a weirdo for upgrading it

  • @cpamiseso
    @cpamiseso 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    This explains a lot of those nasally low output in my 85/15 pickup. I might go for a PATX set since I enjoy Blues Saraceno tone that much. Cheers to this lovely video insight!

  • @tonisalic6300
    @tonisalic6300 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for taking time to show us your mods. Every opinion helps. It's important that,as guitarists we give "input "!
    This may sound a bit off, but I like single coils for distortion. Actual single coil pickups...not splitters.

  • @Stew1950
    @Stew1950 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Great video, Thanks! I purchased a PRS SE Standard in March. It felt great but sounded well, not so great. I also think there is a wiring problem because there was no difference between switch position 1 and position 2 and the pickups were so bright it caused both my boss Katana and fender champ x2 to make an awful chirping noise. At least I have some idea where to start. Thanks again!

  • @fatboysgarage7984
    @fatboysgarage7984 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Aside from the brand of tuners, I did the exact mods to my Standard 24. No matter what I wanna play, it gives me the sound I need. But I'll admit that it shines for punk and hard rock.

  • @PerJohansson-Xeizo
    @PerJohansson-Xeizo 3 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    I like the stock pups, and I have several to compare with, SD Jazz, Classic 57, Probuckers 2 and 3, SD Hyperion, SD Solar, Fender Blackouts etc etc I think the PRS pups do a good job in particular as a package for such low price. Someone said it was Carlos Santana that convinced Paul to release a gig worthy low price guitar for newbies/students so they don't quit because of crappy guitar. Great idea if true!

    • @groovymoon
      @groovymoon 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      It is.. the PRS SE "Santana" model is affordable(ish)... At Sweetwater its $829. The US version is $4300 at GC. He wanted PRS to build that.. Unlike the Yamaha SG Santana model that was astronomically expensive for the day with no lower cost alternative with his name attached. (I used to have one of the lower cost SG's. An SG500.. still a GREAT guitar with all the important stuff that made the SG line so awesome)

    • @Pundit07
      @Pundit07 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Also, and correct me if I’m wrong here, but wasn’t the first ever Santana signature guitar also the first ever SE?

  • @SuperdangerStudios
    @SuperdangerStudios 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great vid and funny too. Great job. Subbed!

  • @AlexanderGhezzo
    @AlexanderGhezzo ปีที่แล้ว

    very interesting, Thank you

  • @pickinonbrandon5456
    @pickinonbrandon5456 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video! I currently own a CE model and I love it. I’m waiting on a single cut 245 SE to arrive that’s on back order. When it comes in I’m gunna do a review and a shootout between a couple different SE and American models like the CE.

  • @finaljesus
    @finaljesus 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    thank you for the video Colton your se custom sounds really good i’m goin to be doin some upgrades to mine pickups locking tuners from prs i want all black but they don’t have them in all black
    your pickup choice was and is exellent i really like the way they sound

  • @foxx1337
    @foxx1337 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Just mounted, inspired by your video, the Seymour Duncan JB Trembucker and Jazz Humbucker pair on my 2013 SE. NGD!

  • @ryanmiddleton8514
    @ryanmiddleton8514 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I picked up a mint used PRS SE Mark Holcomb for £540. Basically just a hardtail custom 24 but with Seymour Duncan alpha and omega pickups worth £300. Absolute steal.
    Looks badass too!

  • @dalehockin
    @dalehockin 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Sharp looking guitar! I have the Zach Meyers prs, I think I going to change the pickups down the road

  • @Rob-qr2kn
    @Rob-qr2kn 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I put the PRS metal buckers in my SE. Added locking tuners, and had the gloss neck sanded to give it a satin feel. One of the BEST guitars in my arsenal, even over my more expensive guitars.

  • @gratefullypope3114
    @gratefullypope3114 ปีที่แล้ว

    the only good prs video ive found

  • @skye7690
    @skye7690 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Great vid, i'm sure i'll refer to it. Doing a Sentient/ Pegasus install on my Custom 24 SE in a week. That JB really rocks wow. I really want to put orange drop caps too, but not sure which ones, I think .001 uf and .022 uf.

  • @jimmathews8427
    @jimmathews8427 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I have this guitar, thought i didnt like the pickups .... simply rolled down the tone knob a bit and i love them.

  • @prasannasayami1351
    @prasannasayami1351 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for your informative video! I had a few questions:
    1. Did you get the JB in trembucker spacing (TB-4) or standard spacing (SH-4)? I thought the bridge humbucker of SE's are in trembucker spacing.
    2. How is the balance when playing seated without wearing a strap? Does it tend to dive towards the body side?
    3. Does the gloss neck finish bother you?
    4. Do you have you any problems with the stock output jack?
    5. Toggle switches or blade switches? Do you have a preference?
    6. Is the cavity shielded?
    7. Is the stock nut bad quality?
    8. Have you tried alternative tunings with the floating bridge?
    9. What string gauge are you using?
    10. Does the body dig into your forearm?

  • @duncanslunchuk5688
    @duncanslunchuk5688 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi, thanks for the vid. Definitely my view too regarding mid range guitars for gigging. My Custom SE24 mod was Seymour Duncan P-Rails plus triple-shot rings for 4 sounds per pickup, plus independent switching (24 sounds). Tone switch would have been redundant so used that for phase reverse of neck pickup for Peter Green tones (and another 24 sounds in the process) 🙂 Incidentally, also agree re position of switch: modded my MM Silo HSH for the same reason (ok it aint mid-range, but I got it cheap when they weren’t fashionable), with 3 way slider for HBs and separate on/off for SC. Had push pulls for HB splitting but will add triple shots to that too as I find them easier when playing live.

  • @johnhummer1064
    @johnhummer1064 3 ปีที่แล้ว +40

    Honestly, the stock PRS pickups are better to my ears than most SD pickups I hear swapped in them. Not worth the upgrade.

    • @ioodyssey3740
      @ioodyssey3740 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Correct. I have SDs in other guitars and though the tone is slightly different it is by no means a great improvement over the stock PRS. But kids will swear by that so as to retain their delusions.

    • @sidneymoore2231
      @sidneymoore2231 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I agree ,mine sound great.I'm going to swap out the tuners and the trem.Probably will go with bv the se locking tuners and the Mann made vos2,it drops right in and is cast bronze and solid machined brass.

    • @Jamescreaney
      @Jamescreaney 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      It’s 2021, people nitpick about everything these days.

    • @chuckdriver8269
      @chuckdriver8269 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      The stock 85/15s pickups in my Custom 24 SE are excellent. I didn’t hear anything in this video to change my mind.🇺🇸🎸

    • @Christian-eq7uh
      @Christian-eq7uh 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Jamescreaney boomer alert

  • @Bru946
    @Bru946 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I put the locking tuners and some duncan pickups in my SE standard and it's such a perfect guitar now. Only cost me about $700 total.

  • @kanjinha
    @kanjinha 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Hi Colton, just saw this video today. Thanks for showing up the whole process. I would like to ask, have you consider, or someone else, having P90s on the PRS? Due to the cavities size, we need to go for a P90s humbuckers size correct? i read people say they don't sound that well as the normal size, but would love to hear opinions. Cheers

  • @oscarsakaygamarra752
    @oscarsakaygamarra752 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi man great video, i wonder what would be a "nicer" set of pickups? any suggestions?

  • @DustinTavo
    @DustinTavo 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Never seen this guy cept a sweetwater ad. Looks cool. Sold my 2 S2s for a Schecter and a PRS SE standard. I actually like the Standard better, like you the neck of course. Started getting carpal tunnel and I told myself that neck was best but it’s just too thick. The Standard feels right for my hands and the wide thin feel is very good for lead stuff to me.

  • @oscarhernandeznunez9338
    @oscarhernandeznunez9338 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Cool! You like dad pickups. I'm agree, the SE and S2 factory pickups need to be upgraded

  • @joesatch245
    @joesatch245 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I came here on a quest to see if it's worth upgrading the pickups of my PRS SE Custom 24, I also have the charcoal grey model. Love the guitar but I also don't like the stock pickups. Also bought the PRS locking tuners for mine .Thanks for the video!

  • @michaelcarnevale5620
    @michaelcarnevale5620 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    i bought my 24 fret prs se custom becuz it just felt so good to play, but i've always felt underwhelmed by the sound.. some rly good tips in this video thanks

  • @ghostblock1
    @ghostblock1 ปีที่แล้ว

    I picked up a Mira Se in a trade a few months back. Like you I have Never liked PRS pickups -- but this one had Vaughn Skow Pickups -- Before the trade I read about that maker and he has actually would pickups specifically for PRS guitars ...I love this guitar . I like the neck feel, it's quite tight as a guitar -- I indulged myself with the Paul Reed Drop in Locking tuners. I played a Stock Mira first and knew that the pickups were the weak spot ... but the Vaughn Skows are music to my ear. The pickups you chose are fantastic and the demo mirrors my experience with PRS

  • @robwilkguitar4458
    @robwilkguitar4458 ปีที่แล้ว

    Without a doubt you want your guitar to sound and perform the way that you want.
    Every instrument has its own character and sound, try before you buy is the sensible approach.
    Interesting video and informative.

  • @TheMedicalEngineer
    @TheMedicalEngineer 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Wow, didn't know PRS SE has a burst color...nice!

    • @VicinalElk44104
      @VicinalElk44104 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Their fire red burst is sexy too. The way the black blends into the red burst is so good

  • @hobertgordon7465
    @hobertgordon7465 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have a 2008 core model that I replace the pick ups in for the very same reason I thought that sounded horrible, I also replaced the rotary switch with a 3 way and I love the guitar now

  • @jimmeymcgee2840
    @jimmeymcgee2840 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    My bridge pickup died so in the process of switching pickups Seymour Duncan 59 in the bridge and Seymour Duncan pearly gates in the neck and your write the neck is nice I love the body style as well.

  • @fuxxel
    @fuxxel 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Cool review :) I’ve ordered my locking tuners today. How good does it stay in tune for you? What about the tremolo? Is the tuning stable?

    • @coltonriver4456
      @coltonriver4456  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      SMP it’s great on its own.
      If you start getting crazy with trem it’ll fall out a bit but we’re talking Matt Bellamy levels. Normally vibrato and usage it stays in tune just fine
      Thanks for watching!

  • @vittonik72
    @vittonik72 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for this video, I ordered a prewired harness for a custom 24 for a Duncan swap, but I have a second Custom that I want to keep the wiring, but I’m getting lost with the wiring colors, just have the white and black are the splits, and reds are hot, but ugh the separate jumper wire from the tone pot to the switch and I’m guessing the bridge actually goes to the switch? The prewired harness set me back $72, but $150 for the pickup combo you have plus the locking PRS tuners instead of the harness is the route I’m thinking, but I’ll definitely do some more research and take pictures. Best wishes and thanks

  • @Dustin_John
    @Dustin_John 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Planning to upgrade my own SE Custom. Just want to know, do I need a standard spaced SD or a Trembucker Spaced SD? BTW Awesome content cheers!

  • @oger5150
    @oger5150 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Jazz and a 59 I dig it. The tone is clean. I have thought about that set up also. I have a Schecter Tempest Cutom that I want to change them out. Thought about the Billy Gibbons Pearly Gates models. You've given me good ideas for the Custom 24 I just ordered. Maybe the Pearlys in the Schecter and the Jazz and 59 in the PRS. Thanks good video.

  • @serranodavid3247
    @serranodavid3247 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great mod, how accurate (straight) are tuners aligned in back of the neck, will a straight edge be required?

  • @timcastle165
    @timcastle165 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great video!! I also have a PRS SE Custom 24 in a Tobacco Burst and I also changed the tuner to the same type of locking tuners which I purchased from John Mann’s Guitar Vault (I couldn’t find them on the PRS sight at the time). FYI John Mann makes a lot of after market parts for the PRS guitars. I have been searching for some good replacement pickups myself and do like the one you installed!! It always makes me nervous when I watch anyone change out tuners with a pair of pliers instead of using the correct size wrench, like nails on a chalk board, but that’s me!! Again Great Video!! What were those pickups again? I need to research them! Thanks!!

    • @coltonriver4456
      @coltonriver4456  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hey man thanks for the comments! You’re absolutely right about using pliers on the lock nuts and anyone reading this in the future should listen to Tim here. Spend the 1.50 on the correct sized nut wrench.
      I used a Seymour Duncan Jb (model SH-4) in the bridge position and a Seymour Duncan Jazz (model SH-2) in the neck. Extremely versatile and solid sounding pickups. With the coil split you can legitimately use them for any genre. Are there better choices? Sure but this gets you a great tone across the board for any solid mahogany guitar imo.

  • @jasonblumenthal6560
    @jasonblumenthal6560 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    First upgrade is the biggest bang for the buck, which is the hollow cheap plastic nut. Use a GraphTech TUSQ XL #6643. Makes a TON of diff in the sustain and the tuning stability. You can literally feel the extra resonant energy thru the neck and body.
    Next is definitely the pickups, if they're the garbage 85/15S model. They sound nice clean and up to moderate volume, but anything needing gain or energy is muddy and lifeless. I changed my Cu24 to a Duncan Custom in the bridge and a Pearly Gates in the neck. On my Tremonti I used a PRS USA HFS in the bridge and a Vintage Bass in the neck.
    Last I put in the new PRS SE Locking Tuners.

  • @bristolfashion4421
    @bristolfashion4421 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Paul Reed-Smith & Carlos Santana's decision to go with the Korean-made-for-PRS student edition range was the best thing for guitarists starting out since the invention of, say, beer or else the kebab. Full stop. There is simply nothing wrong with any of them that would hinder a learner from learning successfully. Intonation, frets, balance, finish, electronics - all perfectly passing muster at an affordable price (especially second-hand - there are *thousands* of them out there). Back when I was a teenager, cheap guitars were unbelievably crap...

    • @joeking433
      @joeking433 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      LOL!

  • @GMec78
    @GMec78 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Right there with you I’ve had all the way up to a core McCarty and the pickups are always bland to my ear. The S2 has the same pickups as the SE.

  • @simonkormendy849
    @simonkormendy849 ปีที่แล้ว

    I've got an old Cherry Red PRS SE Custom 24 (the one without the contouring on the front of the body) that I'm in the process of restoring back to full playability, I'm going to be installing two Gibson USA PAF (Silver Shield) Humbucking pickups I salvaged from my old Gibson USA Les Paul Studio guitar, hopefully they'll sound good in the PRS SE Custom 24, I recently bought a PRS truss rod cover, a set of two plastic ivory PRS pickup rings, and a complete PRS trem bridge on eBay since I needed them in order to complete the restoration, I also need to make a small 2mm thick piece of rosewood in order to install a new nut because the original nut-shelf was sanded to accept a Floyd Rose locking nut, I originally wanted to install a Floyd Rose trem on it but I ended up abandoning the install because of some issues.

  • @utpalrayguitar
    @utpalrayguitar 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video! Can you please help me to select the perfect option for upgrading pickups? I need to know about some other pickups and your opinion, which is - Suhr SSH for Bridge and SSV for Neck for my PRS SE CUSTOM 24-08 2021 SERIES 6-STRING ELECTRIC GUITAR C844EV - ERIZA VERDE. How this combination will work? I need the PRS tone character too!

  • @brandonanderson2066
    @brandonanderson2066 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have the red fade. Looking to upgrade pups.

  • @GoransMusicCircle
    @GoransMusicCircle 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks Colton

  • @nowassobad6104
    @nowassobad6104 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Is the same pickpus that are in 2020 models? Do locking tuners stablize tuning a lot? subed!

  • @groovymoon
    @groovymoon 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nice... about to start the mods on my 24 SE... Which model of strap locks are they?

  • @rjdxplorernfrendz
    @rjdxplorernfrendz 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    on pickups, i think the stock pickups sounds more harsh to the point that i lowered it, but still harsh, might need to lower it again. so I definitely agree with him. and im planning to change it soon too

  • @CeresKLee
    @CeresKLee ปีที่แล้ว

    I have the 35th Anniversary model with the TCI pickups. Heard a criticism if the PRS pickup but never TCI's. Have you tried them? I will NOT be changing mine, only upgrading the tuners.

  • @Ceccaaa
    @Ceccaaa ปีที่แล้ว

    since the prs allows you to split the pickups, do I have to buy a special pickup or can any humbucker pickup work? i was looking for tim henson signature pickups, would they work?

  • @rocklives8251
    @rocklives8251 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I found a new "used" SE on reverb for 550$ from a guitar shop. I did the pickups, and tuners. Mine wouldn't stay in tune, so I put a trem stop and a new nut on it. I changed the nut for tuning stability, but it drastically improved the tone as well. I bought a core nut from prs. Love the neck on those guitars.

    • @ricmel8008
      @ricmel8008 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I saw one going for $300 used. I never pulled the trigger.

  • @CaseyDrones
    @CaseyDrones 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    SE Custom 24 as my first PRS and now after using it as my daily driver for a solid couple months I’ve came to appreciate it. I play a solid state Marshall MG100Fx ( usually always on clean channel ) through a 1960A 4x12 and I get plenty of higher end creaminess however it seems to lack sonically on the the mid to lower ends. Also, Throw away the floating trem bridge and make it a hard tail. If you want more mid to low growl your gonna have to drop a set of pearlies or something in it

    • @joeking433
      @joeking433 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      LOL!

  • @PACK-ge5gu
    @PACK-ge5gu ปีที่แล้ว

    Just sent my 277 se off to my luthier for my mods
    Gibson 500t/496r pickups new pots switch and jack cts 500k push pull on the tone pot, orange drop,Mannmade Bridge,schaller m6-135 locking tuners and strap Locks ,bone nut ,Tesi Kill switch
    Going to run 12-58 stringjoy baritone strings
    Screaming Banshee Mod!
    Full setup fret level polish
    Can’t wait!
    Nice mods on your Se!!

  • @popazuda71
    @popazuda71 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I put the same set in my squire and it sounds incredible. I have a PRS Paul’s guitar SE and I think you just sent me on a mission dammit!!

  • @Buragwit
    @Buragwit 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    When using the SD wiring diagram and you spit the SD humbuckers which coils will be working and which will be off? Slugs? Screws?

  • @AHGrayLensman
    @AHGrayLensman 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I don't think I've heard an SE Cu24 with the current generation 85/15S pickups, but the previous generation's HFS/Vintage Bass pickups were incredibly nasal. However, they took to magnet swaps like gangbusters. Putting an Alnico 5 magnet in the HFS and an Alnico 4 magnet into the Vintage Bass made them much more usable for me.

    • @coltonriver4456
      @coltonriver4456  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Troy Baer this is a really good idea. I think it might help the current “se” line pickups a lot. Nasal is a good description for them. Very mid range-y but not in a pleasant way. The s2 line one seems to do them better but I’ve had conflicting information on whether it’s the same pickups from s2 to se

  • @artist0503
    @artist0503 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I just ordered a new PRS SE Custom 24 and a set of (PRS) locking tuners as well. I'll give the stock pickups a fair try first as I normally do before making a change. I'll most likely end up putting in a set of Seymour Duncan pickups in it. I'm thinking about which ones to go with but, first really want to hear how it sounds stock.

  • @ricdale7813
    @ricdale7813 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I put a Gibson 498/490 set I got for $60 on CL in my Santana SE. Night and Day tonal difference. Good guitar too Great guitar.

    • @carltonjones2915
      @carltonjones2915 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for the info, I'm in the same bag. ( Old school)

    • @RaptorV1USA
      @RaptorV1USA 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Good to know.. I just found a clean santana se for $350 and I'm looking at upgrading the pickups and adding a coil split as next project.....

  • @luciansirbu1784
    @luciansirbu1784 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Omg this is the exact model I have,

  • @christianluna9067
    @christianluna9067 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi, @Colton River I have a PRS Mark Tremonti SE would I be able to install a coil split if I change the pickups to PRS 57/08 pickups?

  • @mechanicjamz
    @mechanicjamz 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have an s2 singlecut semihollow i bought new within 1 yr of ownership the Indonesian stock pups went out and had the electronics warranty. I had bridge issues soft brass heels. I put SD dave mustaine pups.

  • @guille_toledo76
    @guille_toledo76 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thnx for the video. I want a PRS but since I live in Chile,.we are doomed to pay much more money in taxes to import a guitar. I like the CE models but are too much expensive. What do you think if I buy a SE and upgrade it?

  • @CG92965
    @CG92965 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Love this video. Absolutely hate the SE Custom 24 pups. Tried all SE models and pups sound terrible on all of them. Muddy, underwater, or like they are being muffled under a pillow. So disappointing because my ‘88 Core custom 24 sounds beautiful. This is great video because it not only confirms there’s a way to make the SE sound as great as it looks and feels but shows how. Thanks so much. Interested to know if any other pup replacement recommendations.

  • @YakDiezel
    @YakDiezel ปีที่แล้ว

    Soooo... i have an SE standard 24 and i want to knowis the nut graphite and if not should i change the nut? Something tells me it will make a difference too.

  • @kevingross2221
    @kevingross2221 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Bone nut on my SE Custom 24 made a huge difference

  • @patricknelson1471
    @patricknelson1471 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    original pickups sound good to me maybe a bit more dark and bassy than usual but they sound good

  • @jerrycook3273
    @jerrycook3273 11 ชั่วโมงที่ผ่านมา

    Hi Brian thanks for the tip I bought a set of these I put them in my usa prs standard they sound great!! Pick your brain if I may I have a pes se dgt model the mids cut through in a live application but no low end do you think 🤔 they would improve the tone & warmth of that guitar I use a pedal platform in front of clean amps thanks any perspective would be welcome

  • @ruby2thursday
    @ruby2thursday 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    the pickups on mine were awful as well. couple of SD's later....wonderful!

  • @KingGaming-oi1ir
    @KingGaming-oi1ir 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    So Far, I replaced the SE tuners in my Tremonti Custom with Schaller Locking Tuners. I suppose the Nut is next, then I may consider pickups. That Hot Rodded set looks cool. Also considering the Mayhem set.

  • @kaskas55
    @kaskas55 ปีที่แล้ว

    Did you look for a used PRS S2? could be a better value even with the upgrades. But congrats on your guitar. cheers!

  • @chuck7729
    @chuck7729 ปีที่แล้ว

    I was also thinking about Seymour Duncan's Black Winter Sets, too pushed?

  • @ReadySetMoses
    @ReadySetMoses 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I have a Core and the 85/15s absolutely scream!

  • @ayolasna2794
    @ayolasna2794 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Need help!
    I am using the same model (PRS SE custom 24).
    I want to change the pickup ring to black.
    do you know the diagram? or link to buy it. afraid of wrong size. TQ