Nailed it. However you could make a case that certain Bernie Madsen or early Santana SE models could be had for quite little money while being quite close in quality to what an average S2 would be.
Wood does not matter in electric guitars!!! LOL just kidding...check my s2 on my channel. I upgraded everything on it...nice guitar, tho it sounds kinda bassy...
I have a 2019 Paul’s guitar SE made in Indonesia, the back control cavity is routed. I ordered another Paul’s guitar SE this year and it came in not routed, I was so disappointed with this new one I sent it back to Sweetwater. However I don’t think you have a unicorn, my SE is amazing and I would not trade it for a core. Maybe we both got lucky! Great video
Also forgot to mention that the SE has binding all the way around the guitar, as well as the neck and headstock. The S2 does not have any binding. Also, I do know that when I took the reading in this video, the next pick up was in coil split mode. However, my luthier did remeasure this for me after this video, and although the reading was higher than in this video, it was still much lower than the SE next pick up for some reason. He believes it must’ve been accidentally under wound at the factory. However, I have changed the pick ups in this guitar after this video to a set of 58/15 LT. I will make another video about that soon.
Umm…almost all SE models do not have binding. I have 3 different SE’s, none have neck or headstock binding. Two have natural binding, ( taped off edges while finishing so the natural wood shows). Only certain Store Exclusive models have binding. You got an older , dealer exclusive model. Nice guitar.
Update! I just bought an SE Standard 245, along with locking tuners, Fishman open core classic pickup kit, as a project. It has plastic binding on the body and neck.
Yep, those are not the full 85/15s. They are Korean made G&B pickups made specifically for PRS. Schecter also utilizes those peeps to make their Pasadena pickups and whatnot. Plus, in the S2 they are using the TCI S pickups - also G&B made (as you can see in the video. I have a SE Custom and the SE Standard 24-08 that has the same pickups that are in the S2 shown in this video. REGARDLESS, they ARE really good sounding pickups regardless of where they're made. I have a bit of a unicorn PRS SE too. My Custom has a roasted maple neck and fingerboard with a Whale Blue QUILT top (instead of flame maple). It was still $899 too. The roasted maple neck is 3-pieces and quartersawn - and PRS decided to put a gloss finish on the back........really??......I have an '88 PRS Standard so I'm used to the gloss necks - so it's no biggie.
World Instrument, in Korea, also used to make the hollow and semi-hollow Gretsch Electromatics. Gretsch also transitioned the entire Electromatic line to China. When I purchased a G5422TG, I made sure I got one of the Korean ones. In my opinion, an SE from Korea, should fetch more money, on the used market (Reverb and Ebay).
I love my Korean se 24 custom. Bone nut cut to 9's for the string size and it's fantastic. Just played a new se ce 24 and it doesn't feel as nice but still plays great. The wood is better on my Korean se and the flame maple cap is matched better. There were some curious tooling marks on the ne core tec se ce 24 just below each fret on the upper side of the neck. I noticed it on a few of the core tec (Indonesian) se's, including a silver sky se and a custom 24 se.
When you did the resistance test, you can clearly see that the switch for the neck pickup is in single coil mode. Also, that SE is made in Korea, they route the control cavity to recess the cover, the ones made in Indonesia aren't.
Correct. I put a comment in the description explaining that I had it retested after this video with a luthier, and although the reading was higher than in the video, it was still much lower than in the SE guitar. Since this video, I have changed the pick ups to 58/15 LT, and will make another video on it soon. But you are correct about the differences between the Korean vs Indonesian made SE’s. One of the small little perks of being able to get one of the last Korean made ones.
The Indonesian made PRS guitars are some of the highest quality import guitars I've seen. I habe a bunch of MIK guitars too, and they're all pretty great. My understanding is that Korean made guitars are fewer and fewer due to the labor costs there now versus just 10 years back. Finally, I have to say, I bought a few Epiphone by Gibson guitars that are made In China. With the exception of some sharp fret ends and a few high frets, they're pretty amazing for just a haor above 500 bucks, brand new. (Sweetwater pricing during GuitarFest) They aren't as rich or woody sounding as the real deal, but a few dial tweaks on the amp and guitar, and possibly a pedal or two gets you real real close for 1/5 the price of the real deal.
@@typhoonjenkins8330 Gibson should really start looking into making the Epiphone guitars in Indonesia. I’d be much more inclined to give them a shot. As it stands now, I won’t even consider them.
Interesting. I have several PRS guitars ranging from SEs to Cores. I love the SEs. However my absolute favorite is the CE24 because it has the fastest neck, core pickups and is half the price of a core.
I have 18 prs, 6 imports 12 American, most with patten necks, wide fat necks. I bought CE24 earlier this year and the slimmer neck has not grown on me.. Guess I just prefer the larger pattern, patten vintage.. But its quality is every bit what the core's are tuning stability, tone. I do like it, but unsure I will ever bond with the neck.. glad you like yours.
SE' s are usually very well built instrumentd with wonderfull playability and beautifull esthetics. But when I first compare my SE tone with the cores CU24 and Maccarthy 594 I also own, what a disapointment. Worlds apart. Maybe some decents pickups and electronics will improve the SE tone.
I play an early S2 custom24 and I'm pretty happy with it, although the specs are a little different from the latest model. Of course, I considered the CORE model, but since I chose the S2, I also bought a Gibson Les Paul and a Fender Telecaster to enjoy three guitars on the budget of one guitar. Satisfaction completely exceeds the CORE model.There is also such an option.All new, of course.
When you measure the pups, make sure your switches are not in single coil mode.... However, the SE is better value always. For half or 1/3 the price you get a guitar that is maybe at worst 95% of the S2 model. I returned my S2 594 because it was not worth the price tag.
Yes, thank you. I re-measured and they were closer, but still lower than the SE. But I ended up keeping the S2 and swapping the pickups. New video to come in that later. Thanks again!
I got my S2 second hand (from guitarguitar in the uk). A few blemishes, but otherwise perfect. Paid less than some of the SE models they have in. If you don't mind owning a pre owned guitar, the bargains are out there. Brand new though, the price diff isn't worth it in my opinion, so I'd have gone for the SE.
I had an S2 Mira a few years back and ended up selling it as it just didn't seem worth it to me. I ended up buying a CE24 to replace it, and I'm very happy with that guitar, especially since I got it brand new at $300 off and only paid around $1700 for it. In general, though, I don't see much point in spending over $1,500 on a new guitar. You can get many guitars that play, look and sound great at that price or even less. Anything more is just window dressing and diminishing returns, IMO.
In my humble opinion S2 is definitely better value than SE. I have bought two S2 on the price range or lower than SE. Quality of wood and build is incedible , not to mention nitrocellulose lacquer. Many people forget about main factor of wood. For me S2 is professional gear in comparison to SE. SE is overpriced.
The neck profile on my S2 is more rounded at the edges than my SE. I prefer the neck profile on the S2. Both are exceptional instruments. Hard to justify the extra $1K however I much prefer the body carve on the S2 as well - it is much more comfortable to play. S2 for $2K is my choice. But only cause at this point of my life, fortunately I can afford it.
Agree. No question the S2 is better, just a matter if the difference is worth a $1,000 to each individual person. But I’m with you, and fortunately old enough that I can afford to have both in my collection now :)
Absolutely agree with you, the neck carve is much better on the S2 and the rolled fingerboard edges make a dramatic difference in feel. My only beef with the S2 line is they still use the import pickups which are mediocre at best. The Hollowbody II sounds pretty good out of the box, but even the 58/15s pickups aren't that great. I feel the S2 is a superior guitar, but still needs a pickup upgrade. I wish PRS would just start putting the US pickups in them. At 2k dollars new, there is not excuse for those "S" model pickups. Play and S2 and core side by side and the difference is stunning. Thats why I love the CE models, US pickups and US made, with just some import hardware in places.
@@jupitermoongauge4055 One man's "thin sounding toneless" guitar is another man's "chimey" guitar. One man's woofy sounding guitar is another man's creamy sounding guitar. Have a nice day.
So I have an 2022 S2 Custom 24 and a 2021 S2 McCarty 594. The guitars are an American made guitar except for the Korean (or Indonesian) pickups (same pickups the come in the SE). I, personally, bought the S2 models and immediately changed out the pick ups. I put American made PRS 57/07 pick ups in my 594 and I put handmade Bare Knuckle (British) pick ups in my Custom 24. Both guitars roar. So for the price of the guitar + $500 you can have a guitar every ounce as good as a Core for $2,000 - $3000 less than a core model. - SE models don't usually have maple caps. They have maple veneers. An the cavity routing is rarely seen on the SE models.
I agree that there is no question the S2 is better. I was just trying to determine if it was $1,000 better. But it might not be a fair comparison in this case, as the SE I have was a special order spec’d way higher than a normal SE. There’s a much bigger difference when comparing an S2 with a standard SE.
Your SE is in most ways similar to mine. I have the 35th anniversary SE in Blue burst, which also has the maple cap in 3 pieces with a veneer, shielded cavities and rosewood fingerboard. Nowadays I think most come with those specs
i was lucky 3 years ago and got a new core line custom 24 ten top with original hardshell case. the color is orange (my fav color) and its interesting cause only the front of the body is orange. backside, sides of body and neck are all dark brown natural mahogany wood transparent finish. i got it for $2,600 new!! it was a pretty sweet exciting deal!
You definitely have a unicorn SE there haha. I also have a semi-hollow SE. While I love it… I think the 1 piece mahogany body, scarf joint Mahogany neck (compared to 3 ply Maple), nitro finish, and locking tuners make the S2 worth it.
Mmm I’d say they’re 85/15S pickups, not the full US ones. Especially since the American made pickups are always square (squabbins) maybe it was a typo, and the S didn’t show up. Any difference in sound?
Possibly, but there is a huge difference in output. The 85/15 in the SE has twice the ohm reading as the 85/15s in the S2. The SE pickups are significantly louder than the S2.
Hi. hope your surgery went OK. Those are both beautiful guitars. I kinda favor the mellow satin SE look. With any guitar beauty lies in the satisfaction of its owner. As we know there is a lot more to a pups final sound than just its output. Sound quality balance vs output is controlled by many factors some include Magnets, Resistance.Inductance and variations in overall pup materials and fabrication methods. On the maple cap under the veneer that you feel is 1" thick, I believe that may be an error on the fat side? Have you posted a video on you picking up both and rocking them to hear the final sound difference. That would be very interesting. Cheers
The Core 85/15’s are called 85/15LT’s they come with brushed covers and engraved 85/15LT on the covers the only reason the S2 says “S” on the label is for when they are assembling them in Maryland its to keep things organized during assembly or it could be because when they make them in korea they have slightly different specs for the S2 and SE line of the same pickups
If anyone hasn’t seen them… the S2 10th Anniversary comes with a Cuban mahogany neck, mother of pearl inlays, and American 85-15 pickups making them significantly better than the standard S2. Only 1000 will be made so I’d get them while they’re still available
I bought a used SE Custom 24. The 85/15 set were gross so I bought a used Pariah Leone and Pasadena Black pickup set….the difference was vast. I also went worth a 550k Bourne volume pot and changed the floyd block to a big brass block. The last step was rounding the edges of the fingerboard and now it’s an excellent guitar. Regarding your neck pickup measurements: The neck in the S2 was 4k because it’s split….look at your mini toggle position. Also, the body onS2 models is two pieces, you can see the line on yours, it’s by the pickup route,
I bought the s2 fwiw I actually got a willwood limited edition eriza verde (burst look) quilt top, cu 24, 35th anniversary with ebony fretboard. So it has the switches over the 3 way etc. I absolutely love that thing. The back and headstock looks black but its really a very dark green. Fretwork is perfect they really couldn't do much better on it though one issue is my pickup selector is malfunctioning a bit. Has for a year i need to fix it
I think you’re right for most S2 vs SE comparisons. This particular SE is just extremely high end, making the difference less. But the S2 is amazing, and I love mine as well.
Everyone has an opinion. I own both the SE Custom 24/08 and the S2 35th custom 24. The difference is real. just like Epiphone vs Gibson, or squire vs fender mim or American. Is the price difference worth it? Personal choice . I prefer the S2 over the SE because I don't like the thinner maple neck on the SE . I don't think you can compare a core, S2 or SE, it's like a Chevy Impala, Bel-Air or Biscayne. It's all the same car in design but different cost break and look. If you're playing at home in your room you probably don't need a core, if you play in clubs and bars you are not going to take your core. That's were the S2 comes in , if you prefer a bolt on neck core get a CE. If you are playing in the studio you probably need a core. For the average player the SE is a great guitar.
Not a big fan of the scarf neck joints. Some say it makes the headstock stronger, not sure about that. I had a S2 mira, gave it up for a SE Santana. No scarf neck joint and the same electronics and hardware as a S2. The flame top is a veneer, but undetectable. The SE IS a better value IMHO.
When you checked the pickup output you had the neck pickup in the split mode. That accounts for the low reading. Those pickups on the S2 are the TCI tuned pickups. Asian pots have come a long way and some of them are just as good as CTS pots. The S2 doesn't need a shielded control cavity because the wires are shielded.
Thank you for your comment. I have an explanation in the video description for this. My luthier re-measured them after this video in humbucker mode, and the neck pickup was 6.1, so higher than in the video, but still less than the SE one. I have since swapped out the pickups for a set of 58/15 LT. New video coming on that one.
The SHB probably needed the maple neck for a little more brightness and snap. I have a S Korean SE with 2 P90’s like new used for $300 atva GC! I hand wound some for it…beautiful guitar.
I like satin or sanded necks myself. Ive done work to all of my guitars to give them a natural feel on the back. Once you get onstage in front of thousands of people on a wicked humid day in the summer and try to play and your hand is sticking the entire show and making your life miserable, you will understand why some people sand the necks or like satin finishes. ;-) THanks for the video. :-) Id wondered about some of differences.
OH and im not sure. I like the top on the S2. But isee where your coming from. ITd really depend on my finances that day and is i was in the correct state of mind, which id choose. :-)
Oh and the reason why the SE is louder, it has less coating over the bodys top. This is allowing for vibration to escape. Hence louder. All my satin or or custom builds, ive put very very thing coatings on them and it allows the gutiars body to breathe. Just like i find i can hear the guitars highs better with no clear coat on the back of the neck, i can hear in my left ear more treble and for me i need that with my ears. Acoustically you can hear a difference between a guitar with a thick coating, and one with very little if any at all. I have a LP ive been working on and its been wild the difference ive discovered doing different work and trying difference parts and doing stuff with the finish etc. Just food for thought.
Hey, I love the video, and my personal experience what kept me picking up my S2 over my Se was purely the finish. My SC had a gloss finish that was annoyingly sticky compared to the nitro on the USA model.
My SE Custom 24 2020 have the same specs of that SE that you show, S2 is the up price to have a US made PRS, if SE comes with the Locking Tuners, S2 will be a death point
The buyers on the used market determine the value. If someone wants a USA made body and neck, with SE hardware, electronics and bridge, then the S2's will always be worth more (and also in theory). If used guitar buyers gravitate toward the Korean made SE's, this could bring their price up, and could push S2 prices down.
I have a 97 ce 22, a 2021 S2 McCarty 594, and have played a few SE. The S2 is quite better in construction but had shit electronics, so I swapped them out for the core prs electronics, and the guitar is amazing. The electronics on the cores are superior.
The SE is so well done these days that a few minors upgrade is enough (pickups change, PRS tuners) for the full PRS experience. No need to spend your hard earned money on the USA models. Of course, the option is still there but for most people the SE is the reasonable choice.
I enjoy the S2 line. Built to perfection like the cores. I dont think they should be $2k but for $900-1500 used you can’t go wrong. I like to think of it as the SEs are for beginners, S2s are for starving musicians, and the cores are for those who’ve made it lol
I believe those are 85/15S pickups in the SE. The G&B makers mark on the back is a giveaway. They made the S pickups in two different places, and one of them manufactures them slightly different. Supposedly the S2's version is slightly better, but I've had them both and dislike them both. They just sound weak and flat. Also, the output test you did at the end, you had the toggle switch in the upward position on the S2, which is the split position. That's why your resistance was halved.
Phil mcnight recently said on his podcasts he’s got rid of some of SE’s because he has s2 he’s paid dearly for snd theyvare not as hood . Check out his SE verde video when he compares it to the core and sure it has more bits but you can see from his face he thinks the SE sounds better
Correct. I was just questioning it since the S2 is made in the US, and the pickups sounded so much different than in the SE. But the pickups were definitely made in Korea.
@@IamMusicNerd That is how PRS cuts production costs to keep the retail price low on the S2 line; the guitars are made in the US, but they incorporate import pickups and hardware.
Ya, I had no idea at the time they only commissioned 30 of them from PRS. Normally they do that with the USA models only. SE models are not typically that limited or rare, especially a Korean made one, which they never do anymore. But you never know, another dealer might commission another SE limited run possibly, or maybe one of those 30 Koa owners might sell theirs someday. If I see one I’ll try to remember to come back and post a comment for you.
I've had SE's and currently own a CE and P22. In my opinion and experience, the S2 is not twice the guitar the SE is. The CE absolutely is twice the guitar the SE is. In fact, my CE can go toe to toe with my core P22.
It be aight doe... Honestly PRS is great regardless of what level you choose and you definitely see noticeable improvements on each level you move up too. The amount you spend is solely up to you to decide if it is truly worth it or not? The USA PRS pickups are a HUGE upgrade, but the import pickups are not horrible at all. It's kind of like Duncan Designed versus Seymour Duncan pickups. They are both very good and sometimes you can get lucky and the Duncan Designed actually will sound better, but in general the real Seymour Duncans are consistently better. It's the same with PRS pickups.
I acquired a Core model a few years back. Then got an SE paul’s guitar. I then purchased an S2 custom 24. I sold the Core and got rid of the SE. The S2 is my main gig I even a got a couple others, an S2 single cut and an S2 studio. My SE looked incredible, i kept it on the wall cause looked so good but obviously not a great sounding and feeling guitar.
Yes, thank you. I mentioned this in another post/comment, but I had it re-tested after the video by a luthier and it was higher than in this video, but still far less than the SE neck pickup for some reason. So I had the pickups changed out to a set of 58/15 LT. New video coming about that.
The S2 body shape, the way it look and the locking tuners and the looks of the S2 is better. I would get the S2 and not get the Core which is way to much money.
On the S2 your toggle switches weren't set the same on your two pickups, I am guessing you had neck pickup at single coil mode is why you got the low reading.
Thanks for the heads up. You are probably right, but I also had it tested multiple times with a local luthier during different tune ups, and he also said the output on the neck pickup was lower than the SE neck pickup, and I know he verified both humbucker and coil split mode. The difference was probably much less than the multi-meter reading in this video, but it was certainly noticeable when switching back and forth between guitars. But it doesn’t really matter to me anymore because I changed the pickups in the S2 to 58/15 LT pickups, which are both lower output than the SE, but I like the tone a little more than the 85/15 ones. I’ll make a video about that soon to replace this one. Thanks again!
One is solid and the other is semi-hollow, more wood vs less wood. They're not going to sound the same or resonate the same. In the end, it's which one you enjoy playing.
Agree. I wasn’t really trying to find $1,000 worth of tone difference, I was mostly just comparing build quality and features you get for the extra $1,000. But I love them both and happy I have each of them.
This se is so great because its the South Korean factory. I got my baritone from there. The new se’s are great but its a different factory in Indonesia
That must be a Unicorn because I have never seen another SE like that one with an f-hole. There are none listed on Reverb either. *ALL* of the PRS guitars with an f-hole on Reverb are either Custom, S2, or Private Stock.
Ya, it was a dealer exclusive where they ordered 30 custom made SE’s specially made for the guitar shop’s 30th anniversary. I just got lucky to get one before they sold out.
Vey interesting video… I’m no PRS super fan but IMO, it’s great time when you can take 3 different models of guitar from PRS from the $4k Core guitar to the $900 SE and have them be comparable. Even as good as the inspired by Gibson newer Epiphones are, you’d never be this close between the two lines/models and I at times begrudgingly love Gibson guitars. I own a prized LP Classic that I’ve invested much time and money into that I’d never part with. I have a Fender CS Esquire as well that I adore but it wasn’t cheap nor was it perfect upon arrival (bought used as new prices are insane). However, PRS keeps narrowing the divide between the SE line and the Core line. The PRS brand is all about the details (frets, joints, finish, binding, pups,, etc.). The Core guitars are honestly on a different level from a detail, feel, and spec standpoint but they’re almost doing too well w/these newer SE models as they at times make the argument that the extra cash for the S2 over the SE only brings you a little more detail (PRS headstock badging, sometimes tuners, carve, inlays, etc.)…Things that really don’t necessarily greatly impact the actual tone of the guitar. And if something does (pups, tuners, bridge), it can be replaced. PRS is really smart in the fact that they know a lot of SE customers will replace the tuners and maybe even the pups once you have that guitar and are ready to upgrade. And they know what you really want is a Core model so Paul and PRS do all they can to get you in the door. Not everyone moves on to the Core model. Frankly, the point that you and many have made too is that you don’t need to. Can you imagine just grabbing any Epiphone and Gibson off the wall for a comparison? Heck, at times even the Gibson could be a dud.
Yes, I added a note about this. My luthier restated after this video, and it was closer than the reading in this video, but still far less than the SE neck pickup for some reason. Seems it was underwound. But I ended up changing the pickups to 58/15 LT after this video anyway. :)
Those plastic bird inlays really do make the guitar look cheap, some abalone dot markers would be much better. Nice looking guitar though. my problem is I want a full blown core model and I cannot justify spending the money, so I don't buy the lesser models. I have also come to the conclusion that binding is in reality a none organic materiel that I would rather not have on the guitar, but that's just me. I think the less plastic on the neck the better.
Yes. As long as they both have the 85/15 pickups, I don’t hear much of a difference in tone between them. They sound very similar. The differences are mostly in feel. The USA version usually has more polished fret ends, neck, tuners, etc. But tone wise they are almost identical to my ears.
I would not say it’s a big difference. The semi-hollow definitely has a different resonance that you can hear when playing clean tones. It’s almost like a built in piezo that’s very quiet, or like a slight reverb. And of course, the guitar is much lighter. If you’re playing with overdrive at higher volumes, you won’t hear much of difference at all, with the one exception being that the semi-hollow can produce feedback easier sometimes. But at lower volumes with clean tones you can hear a slight acoustic quality under the notes. Other than that, the tone is very similar.
Yes, typically you can find used ones for about $500. I was able to get a new set from Zach at Mythos pedals, and about once a year PRS will sell a limited quantity on their website, but usually you can only find used ones on Reverb or eBay.
Yes, I know the SE’s do, and the S2’s are supposed to as well. My SE was a limited custom order, and appears to have something different. But the S2 is the one that’s really strange because the readings were so much lower than the other 35th anniversary S2’s. My luthier thinks it may have been underwound by accident, but I have changed the pickups since this video anyway to a set of USA 58/15 LT
I have 85/15's in my core 24. They are very loud. The main difference between these two guitars in my opinion, would be the positioning of the neck pickups. They are going to sound quite different, and you might not prefer the 24 fret one. Whatever sound you like, you can be sure that PRS only makes beautiful guitars. Never seen an ugly PRS.
For me, the fundamental value difference is that the S2 is a PRS guitar built in my home state of Maryland, while the SE is a Cort guitar built in Indonesia.
watching the video for me the S2 is WAY WAY better, it looks a different league. Each to their own and all that but to me there's no comparison. You get what you pay for for sure here IMO.
You’re probably right. My point was just that this SE is the most upscale one I have ever found (ie, binding all the way around body, neck ,headstock, etc which even the S2 doesn’t have). The S2 is most definitely nicer, no question, I just wasn’t sure if it was $1,000 nicer. But it’s a killer guitar.
@@IamMusicNerd for about 13yrs now my main guitar has been a PRS Custom 22 in Blue Matteo....its a great guitar as you know most of the top shelf PRS Customs etc dont have binding, but the maple cap serves as a binding visually. I did get one of the first runs of the SE Custom long before they did the beveled tops like they do in recent years and that too was a great guitar although on mine the trem wouldn't hold tune very well..but that was probably just a nut filing fix which I never did, just used that guitar without the bar. The new 2020/21 customs look awesome and soubd as good in the reviews I've seen. Obviously you can see multi piece bodies and necks which is a big money saver, I'm tempted to get another now but need to trybone out as I believe the necks are a bit skinny and my PRS has the wide/fat carve which is what I'm used to. I can play skinny necks but don't enjoy them as much...anyways thought your S2 was beautiful!!
You don't have to spend this much for an S2 - there are the Standards to consider. An S2 Standard Satin is more like $1500, still looks good IMO, and the satin finish on the neck is more playable (again IMO).
@@gabrielpettit3989I already own a se Custom 24, is it worth upgrading to a s2 standard 24 dots satin white which costs me only 999 euros in a special offer?
Sorry to pop the bubble my friend but the source of both the pickups is Korea . Ignore the little label they are both STAMPED B&G . This is the Korean company that make the pickups for PRS SE and S . The Korean Bernie model around a decade ago did a limited run with coil taps and USA 85/15 which not retail at $600
The wood they use on the S2s is so nice. That's just about the only thing on a guitar that can't be upgraded
Very true
Nailed it. However you could make a case that certain Bernie Madsen or early Santana SE models could be had for quite little money while being quite close in quality to what an average S2 would be.
Wood does not matter in electric guitars!!! LOL just kidding...check my s2 on my channel. I upgraded everything on it...nice guitar, tho it sounds kinda bassy...
congratulations man. thats a gorgeous SE model with killer price. what a good pick.
Thank you!
Absolutely is the answer.
I have a 2019 Paul’s guitar SE made in Indonesia, the back control cavity is routed. I ordered another Paul’s guitar SE this year and it came in not routed, I was so disappointed with this new one I sent it back to Sweetwater. However I don’t think you have a unicorn, my SE is amazing and I would not trade it for a core. Maybe we both got lucky! Great video
Pickups are both made by the same manufacturer in Korea (G&B). USA PRS pickups are made in Maryland and have the model number usually etched in them.
You are correct.
Plus they look entirely different than these!
They may not say 85/15s but You can clearly see the G&B emblem on the back of the pickup which is the overseas factory that makes the SE pickups.
I have this exact guitar and it's the best guitar I've ever played. I used to work in a guitar store so I've played a lot.
Also forgot to mention that the SE has binding all the way around the guitar, as well as the neck and headstock. The S2 does not have any binding.
Also, I do know that when I took the reading in this video, the next pick up was in coil split mode. However, my luthier did remeasure this for me after this video, and although the reading was higher than in this video, it was still much lower than the SE next pick up for some reason. He believes it must’ve been accidentally under wound at the factory. However, I have changed the pick ups in this guitar after this video to a set of 58/15 LT. I will make another video about that soon.
Umm…almost all SE models do not have binding. I have 3 different SE’s, none have neck or headstock binding. Two have natural binding, ( taped off edges while finishing so the natural wood shows). Only certain Store Exclusive models have binding. You got an older , dealer exclusive model. Nice guitar.
I payed $1400 for my McCarty sc594 10 top in Mccarty burst, small ding in edge.
Looks like you have the neck pickup coil tapped which would explain the lower output on the S2.
Correct. This was a dealer exclusive that they spec’d out this way. Only 30 made.
Update! I just bought an SE Standard 245, along with locking tuners, Fishman open core classic pickup kit, as a project. It has plastic binding on the body and neck.
Yep, those are not the full 85/15s. They are Korean made G&B pickups made specifically for PRS. Schecter also utilizes those peeps to make their Pasadena pickups and whatnot. Plus, in the S2 they are using the TCI S pickups - also G&B made (as you can see in the video. I have a SE Custom and the SE Standard 24-08 that has the same pickups that are in the S2 shown in this video. REGARDLESS, they ARE really good sounding pickups regardless of where they're made. I have a bit of a unicorn PRS SE too. My Custom has a roasted maple neck and fingerboard with a Whale Blue QUILT top (instead of flame maple). It was still $899 too. The roasted maple neck is 3-pieces and quartersawn - and PRS decided to put a gloss finish on the back........really??......I have an '88 PRS Standard so I'm used to the gloss necks - so it's no biggie.
Wow, that sounds like an amazing guitar! Great find!
World Instrument, in Korea, also used to make the hollow and semi-hollow Gretsch Electromatics. Gretsch also transitioned the entire Electromatic line to China. When I purchased a G5422TG, I made sure I got one of the Korean ones. In my opinion, an SE from Korea, should fetch more money, on the used market (Reverb and Ebay).
I agree. The Korean made guitars are right up there with the Japanese ones, and a cut above the Chinese ones in my opinion.
Agree. Should be priced 30-50% higher.
I love my Korean se 24 custom. Bone nut cut to 9's for the string size and it's fantastic. Just played a new se ce 24 and it doesn't feel as nice but still plays great. The wood is better on my Korean se and the flame maple cap is matched better. There were some curious tooling marks on the ne core tec se ce 24 just below each fret on the upper side of the neck. I noticed it on a few of the core tec (Indonesian) se's, including a silver sky se and a custom 24 se.
When you did the resistance test, you can clearly see that the switch for the neck pickup is in single coil mode. Also, that SE is made in Korea, they route the control cavity to recess the cover, the ones made in Indonesia aren't.
Correct. I put a comment in the description explaining that I had it retested after this video with a luthier, and although the reading was higher than in the video, it was still much lower than in the SE guitar.
Since this video, I have changed the pick ups to 58/15 LT, and will make another video on it soon.
But you are correct about the differences between the Korean vs Indonesian made SE’s. One of the small little perks of being able to get one of the last Korean made ones.
@@IamMusicNerd Aww dang, my bad for not reading down further.
The Indonesian made PRS guitars are some of the highest quality import guitars I've seen. I habe a bunch of MIK guitars too, and they're all pretty great. My understanding is that Korean made guitars are fewer and fewer due to the labor costs there now versus just 10 years back. Finally, I have to say, I bought a few Epiphone by Gibson guitars that are made In China. With the exception of some sharp fret ends and a few high frets, they're pretty amazing for just a haor above 500 bucks, brand new. (Sweetwater pricing during GuitarFest) They aren't as rich or woody sounding as the real deal, but a few dial tweaks on the amp and guitar, and possibly a pedal or two gets you real real close for 1/5 the price of the real deal.
@@typhoonjenkins8330 Gibson should really start looking into making the Epiphone guitars in Indonesia. I’d be much more inclined to give them a shot. As it stands now, I won’t even consider them.
Interesting. I have several PRS guitars ranging from SEs to Cores. I love the SEs. However my absolute favorite is the CE24 because it has the fastest neck, core pickups and is half the price of a core.
Great choice! The CE line is an awesome value. Can’t go wrong with one of those.
Agree completely!!! The CE24 is a beast. I own 3 of them, different finishes and 2 with 57/08 pickups which are my favorite. Great guitars!!!
I have 18 prs, 6 imports 12 American, most with patten necks, wide fat necks. I bought CE24 earlier this year and the slimmer neck has not grown on me.. Guess I just prefer the larger pattern, patten vintage.. But its quality is every bit what the core's are tuning stability, tone. I do like it, but unsure I will ever bond with the neck.. glad you like yours.
Totally agree!!! I own 1 SE Floyd and 1 CE24.. they both play great but I spend more time on my CE24 .
SE' s are usually very well built instrumentd with wonderfull playability and beautifull esthetics. But when I first compare my SE tone with the cores CU24 and Maccarthy 594 I also own, what a disapointment. Worlds apart. Maybe some decents pickups and electronics will improve the SE tone.
I play an early S2 custom24 and I'm pretty happy with it, although the specs are a little different from the latest model. Of course, I considered the CORE model, but since I chose the S2, I also bought a Gibson Les Paul and a Fender Telecaster to enjoy three guitars on the budget of one guitar. Satisfaction completely exceeds the CORE model.There is also such an option.All new, of course.
When you measure the pups, make sure your switches are not in single coil mode.... However, the SE is better value always. For half or 1/3 the price you get a guitar that is maybe at worst 95% of the S2 model. I returned my S2 594 because it was not worth the price tag.
Yes, thank you. I re-measured and they were closer, but still lower than the SE. But I ended up keeping the S2 and swapping the pickups. New video to come in that later. Thanks again!
I got my S2 second hand (from guitarguitar in the uk). A few blemishes, but otherwise perfect. Paid less than some of the SE models they have in. If you don't mind owning a pre owned guitar, the bargains are out there.
Brand new though, the price diff isn't worth it in my opinion, so I'd have gone for the SE.
I had an S2 Mira a few years back and ended up selling it as it just didn't seem worth it to me. I ended up buying a CE24 to replace it, and I'm very happy with that guitar, especially since I got it brand new at $300 off and only paid around $1700 for it. In general, though, I don't see much point in spending over $1,500 on a new guitar. You can get many guitars that play, look and sound great at that price or even less. Anything more is just window dressing and diminishing returns, IMO.
In my humble opinion S2 is definitely better value than SE. I have bought two S2 on the price range or lower than SE. Quality of wood and build is incedible , not to mention nitrocellulose lacquer. Many people forget about main factor of wood. For me S2 is professional gear in comparison to SE. SE is overpriced.
The neck profile on my S2 is more rounded at the edges than my SE. I prefer the neck profile on the S2. Both are exceptional instruments. Hard to justify the extra $1K however I much prefer the body carve on the S2 as well - it is much more comfortable to play. S2 for $2K is my choice. But only cause at this point of my life, fortunately I can afford it.
Agree. No question the S2 is better, just a matter if the difference is worth a $1,000 to each individual person. But I’m with you, and fortunately old enough that I can afford to have both in my collection now :)
Absolutely agree with you, the neck carve is much better on the S2 and the rolled fingerboard edges make a dramatic difference in feel. My only beef with the S2 line is they still use the import pickups which are mediocre at best. The Hollowbody II sounds pretty good out of the box, but even the 58/15s pickups aren't that great. I feel the S2 is a superior guitar, but still needs a pickup upgrade. I wish PRS would just start putting the US pickups in them. At 2k dollars new, there is not excuse for those "S" model pickups. Play and S2 and core side by side and the difference is stunning. Thats why I love the CE models, US pickups and US made, with just some import hardware in places.
I had a S2 singlecut and it was one of the most thin sounding toneless guitars I've ever played. Well built garbage
@@jupitermoongauge4055 One man's "thin sounding toneless" guitar is another man's "chimey" guitar. One man's woofy sounding guitar is another man's creamy sounding guitar. Have a nice day.
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So I have an 2022 S2 Custom 24 and a 2021 S2 McCarty 594. The guitars are an American made guitar except for the Korean (or Indonesian) pickups (same pickups the come in the SE). I, personally, bought the S2 models and immediately changed out the pick ups. I put American made PRS 57/07 pick ups in my 594 and I put handmade Bare Knuckle (British) pick ups in my Custom 24. Both guitars roar. So for the price of the guitar + $500 you can have a guitar every ounce as good as a Core for $2,000 - $3000 less than a core model. - SE models don't usually have maple caps. They have maple veneers. An the cavity routing is rarely seen on the SE models.
Thanks for the info. Your McCarty sounds awesome!
The SE and S2 are great guitars. The more expensive PRS has more select woods and will play the same 20 years from now, stability.
Still I see no reason why the SE's with laminate covered by veneer could not be in good shape that amount of time later.
II would buy a used S2 over the SE all day. You have to understand how much better the fretwork and attention to detail is on the S2's.
I agree that there is no question the S2 is better. I was just trying to determine if it was $1,000 better. But it might not be a fair comparison in this case, as the SE I have was a special order spec’d way higher than a normal SE. There’s a much bigger difference when comparing an S2 with a standard SE.
I disagree. I'm not sure the fretwork on my SE could be any better. Plus, it's a bound fretboard - point SE.
@@micd9531 Read up on the USA neck building process and I think you'll understand what I mean.
Those are not the core pickups in that SE they are stamped G&B. If they were the core they would be stamped PRS USA on the back.
Correct
Your SE is in most ways similar to mine. I have the 35th anniversary SE in Blue burst, which also has the maple cap in 3 pieces with a veneer, shielded cavities and rosewood fingerboard. Nowadays I think most come with those specs
Nice!
i was lucky 3 years ago and got a new core line custom 24 ten top with original hardshell case. the color is orange (my fav color) and its interesting cause only the front of the body is orange. backside, sides of body and neck are all dark brown natural mahogany wood transparent finish. i got it for $2,600 new!! it was a pretty sweet exciting deal!
Wow, nice find! I bet that’s beautiful, and fun to play. Thanks for sharing!
I have a 30th Anniversary S2 Custom 24 in Dark Cherry Burst and LOVE IT !!!
Nice!
I have an S2 Thinline that I love, but, I would love to have the SE you have there. I love the satin finish on the SE.
I bought a PRS ce and have been very happy with it it just feels like higher quality than the S2
You definitely have a unicorn SE there haha. I also have a semi-hollow SE. While I love it… I think the 1 piece mahogany body, scarf joint Mahogany neck (compared to 3 ply Maple), nitro finish, and locking tuners make the S2 worth it.
I tend to agree with you based on most SE’s vs S2’s I’ve tried
Mmm I’d say they’re 85/15S pickups, not the full US ones. Especially since the American made pickups are always square (squabbins) maybe it was a typo, and the S didn’t show up. Any difference in sound?
Possibly, but there is a huge difference in output. The 85/15 in the SE has twice the ohm reading as the 85/15s in the S2. The SE pickups are significantly louder than the S2.
This right here is the truth. 85/15 usa is square bobbins and the 's' 85/15 are rounded
Hi. hope your surgery went OK. Those are both beautiful guitars. I kinda favor the mellow satin SE look. With any guitar beauty lies in the satisfaction of its owner. As we know there is a lot more to a pups final sound than just its output. Sound quality balance vs output is controlled by many factors some include Magnets, Resistance.Inductance and variations in overall pup materials and fabrication methods. On the maple cap under the veneer that you feel is 1" thick, I believe that may be an error on the fat side? Have you posted a video on you picking up both and rocking them to hear the final sound difference. That would be very interesting. Cheers
Thank you!
Very nice comparison! 🤙
Thank you!
The Core 85/15’s are called 85/15LT’s they come with brushed covers and engraved 85/15LT on the covers the only reason the S2 says “S” on the label is for when they are assembling them in Maryland its to keep things organized during assembly or it could be because when they make them in korea they have slightly different specs for the S2 and SE line of the same pickups
Core model 85/15 pickups use "squabbins" (not rounded bobbins). I had core 85/15 pickups in my CE 24, which I swapped out for 57/08 pickups.
Good to know, thanks. No idea why the SE ones have such a higher output reading than the S2 ones, but other than higher output, they are similar tone.
"Squabbin" is a contraction of "square bobbin."
It's easy to get wrapped up in these guitars they are really great imo.
Those are still “S”pickups made by G&B in Korea. Real 85/15 core pickups have square bobbins and are made at the PRS factory in Maryland.
is litereally only a more recent thing, th es jsut means a newer ddesign for the cheaper bng picckups brand make and model wise
If anyone hasn’t seen them… the S2 10th Anniversary comes with a Cuban mahogany neck, mother of pearl inlays, and American 85-15 pickups making them significantly better than the standard S2. Only 1000 will be made so I’d get them while they’re still available
I bought a used SE Custom 24. The 85/15 set were gross so I bought a used Pariah Leone and Pasadena Black pickup set….the difference was vast. I also went worth a 550k Bourne volume pot and changed the floyd block to a big brass block. The last step was rounding the edges of the fingerboard and now it’s an excellent guitar.
Regarding your neck pickup measurements: The neck in the S2 was 4k because it’s split….look at your mini toggle position. Also, the body onS2 models is two pieces, you can see the line on yours, it’s by the pickup route,
I bought the s2 fwiw
I actually got a willwood limited edition eriza verde (burst look) quilt top, cu 24, 35th anniversary with ebony fretboard. So it has the switches over the 3 way etc. I absolutely love that thing. The back and headstock looks black but its really a very dark green. Fretwork is perfect they really couldn't do much better on it though one issue is my pickup selector is malfunctioning a bit. Has for a year i need to fix it
Nice! I love those Eriza Verdes
@@IamMusicNerd hell yeah!
⚡⚡🎸⚡⚡ Take care dude!
I believe it is worth it as I’ve played one and it was so much better than the se. Feel, sound, playability
I think you’re right for most S2 vs SE comparisons. This particular SE is just extremely high end, making the difference less. But the S2 is amazing, and I love mine as well.
@@IamMusicNerd when I can afford a s2 I’m gonna buy one
You will love it!
Really? 🤥
The pickups both have G&B on them, so they're made overseas. The USA pickups also have squared bobbins.
Everyone has an opinion. I own both the SE Custom 24/08 and the S2 35th custom 24. The difference is real.
just like Epiphone vs Gibson, or squire vs fender mim or American. Is the price difference worth it? Personal choice . I prefer the S2 over the SE because I don't like the thinner maple neck on the SE . I don't think you can compare a core, S2 or SE, it's like a Chevy Impala, Bel-Air or Biscayne. It's all the same car in design but different cost break and look. If you're playing at home in your room you probably don't need a core, if you play in clubs and bars you are not going to take your core. That's were the S2 comes in , if you prefer a bolt on neck core get a CE. If you are playing in the studio you probably need a core. For the average player the SE is a great guitar.
Well said
Not a big fan of the scarf neck joints. Some say it makes the headstock stronger, not sure about that. I had a S2 mira, gave it up for a SE Santana. No scarf neck joint and the same electronics and hardware as a S2. The flame top is a veneer, but undetectable. The SE IS a better value IMHO.
You could be right. Thanks for the comment!
When you checked the pickup output you had the neck pickup in the split mode. That accounts for the low reading. Those pickups on the S2 are the TCI tuned pickups. Asian pots have come a long way and some of them are just as good as CTS pots. The S2 doesn't need a shielded control cavity because the wires are shielded.
Thank you for your comment. I have an explanation in the video description for this. My luthier re-measured them after this video in humbucker mode, and the neck pickup was 6.1, so higher than in the video, but still less than the SE one. I have since swapped out the pickups for a set of 58/15 LT. New video coming on that one.
@@IamMusicNerd I have the 58/15s pickups in an SE Hollowbody II Piezo. They sound great.
I am loving mine as well. Awesome pickups!
The SHB probably needed the maple neck for a little more brightness and snap. I have a S Korean SE with 2 P90’s like new used for $300 atva GC! I hand wound some for it…beautiful guitar.
Yes much better than the SE Ive owned both and currently have an s2 the playability is night and day better on the S2
S2 I have is amazingly playable even with a shiny neck, can't imagine how good it would be with a satin neck.
That SE is sick!
Thank you!
I like satin or sanded necks myself. Ive done work to all of my guitars to give them a natural feel on the back. Once you get onstage in front of thousands of people on a wicked humid day in the summer and try to play and your hand is sticking the entire show and making your life miserable, you will understand why some people sand the necks or like satin finishes. ;-) THanks for the video. :-) Id wondered about some of differences.
OH and im not sure. I like the top on the S2. But isee where your coming from. ITd really depend on my finances that day and is i was in the correct state of mind, which id choose. :-)
Oh and the reason why the SE is louder, it has less coating over the bodys top. This is allowing for vibration to escape. Hence louder. All my satin or or custom builds, ive put very very thing coatings on them and it allows the gutiars body to breathe. Just like i find i can hear the guitars highs better with no clear coat on the back of the neck, i can hear in my left ear more treble and for me i need that with my ears. Acoustically you can hear a difference between a guitar with a thick coating, and one with very little if any at all. I have a LP ive been working on and its been wild the difference ive discovered doing different work and trying difference parts and doing stuff with the finish etc. Just food for thought.
Thanks for the comments! Great insights. I appreciate it!
My S2 is way better quality than the SE’s I own, and I enjoy my SE’s, but my S2 Custom 24-08 is just 🎯🎯🔥with the USA pickups!!!!
Hey, I love the video, and my personal experience what kept me picking up my S2 over my Se was purely the finish. My SC had a gloss finish that was annoyingly sticky compared to the nitro on the USA model.
I’m sure a satin se model is amazing
@@domonicramey3960 Well, maybe they *would* be - but the only SE with satin finish that I'm aware of is the Mark Holcomb SVN, which is a 7-string... 😕
My SE Custom 24 2020 have the same specs of that SE that you show, S2 is the up price to have a US made PRS, if SE comes with the Locking Tuners, S2 will be a death point
The buyers on the used market determine the value. If someone wants a USA made body and neck, with SE hardware, electronics and bridge, then the S2's will always be worth more (and also in theory). If used guitar buyers gravitate toward the Korean made SE's, this could bring their price up, and could push S2 prices down.
Very true.
I have a 97 ce 22, a 2021 S2 McCarty 594, and have played a few SE. The S2 is quite better in construction but had shit electronics, so I swapped them out for the core prs electronics, and the guitar is amazing. The electronics on the cores are superior.
I did the same thing after making this video. I put a set of 58/15 LT pickups in my S2 and love it even more now.
Hmm does the scarf joint ever brk? Im about to purchase a beautiful Egg Blue S2. Thx
I have had mine for a few years now, and never had an issue. The S2 seems to be very well made.
@@IamMusicNerd Ok great thx
The SE is so well done these days that a few minors upgrade is enough (pickups change, PRS tuners) for the full PRS experience. No need to spend your hard earned money on the USA models. Of course, the option is still there but for most people the SE is the reasonable choice.
The SE’s are definitely getting better and better.
If a person wanted a USA made body/neck vs. Indonesia, then I guess it's worth the difference. Personally, I went with a CE 24.
The CE series is awesome. I like the bolt on neck option a lot. I may need to get one of those next. (I might have an addiction problem :)
I enjoy the S2 line. Built to perfection like the cores. I dont think they should be $2k but for $900-1500 used you can’t go wrong.
I like to think of it as the SEs are for beginners, S2s are for starving musicians, and the cores are for those who’ve made it lol
That is a gorgeous SE. I'd kill to get one like that.
I want an s2 but that carve choice is horrendous. I want the se but they have limited color choices compared to the s2.
Yes, the carve is very dividing. I love the way it feels to play far more than a Strat, but I understand that many people don’t like the look as much.
I believe those are 85/15S pickups in the SE. The G&B makers mark on the back is a giveaway. They made the S pickups in two different places, and one of them manufactures them slightly different. Supposedly the S2's version is slightly better, but I've had them both and dislike them both. They just sound weak and flat.
Also, the output test you did at the end, you had the toggle switch in the upward position on the S2, which is the split position. That's why your resistance was halved.
Phil mcnight recently said on his podcasts he’s got rid of some of SE’s because he has s2 he’s paid dearly for snd theyvare not as hood . Check out his SE verde video when he compares it to the core and sure it has more bits but you can see from his face he thinks the SE sounds better
Nice top for an S2!
Thanks!
Those aren’t the core model pickups in the SE. you can see the brand stamp. They are made in Asia.
Correct. I was just questioning it since the S2 is made in the US, and the pickups sounded so much different than in the SE. But the pickups were definitely made in Korea.
@@IamMusicNerd That is how PRS cuts production costs to keep the retail price low on the S2 line; the guitars are made in the US, but they incorporate import pickups and hardware.
Wish I would have pulled the trigger on one of those Rainbow Guitars Koa SE 22s. Can't ever find them on Reverb anymore.
Ya, I had no idea at the time they only commissioned 30 of them from PRS. Normally they do that with the USA models only. SE models are not typically that limited or rare, especially a Korean made one, which they never do anymore.
But you never know, another dealer might commission another SE limited run possibly, or maybe one of those 30 Koa owners might sell theirs someday. If I see one I’ll try to remember to come back and post a comment for you.
i will take the SE
It’s a great choice, can’t go wrong.
agree 100% . beautiful guitars and I like both but SE is a killer since no scarf + pearl inlay, very unique.
I own a core wood library, an S2 custom 24 and 2 SE's. The quality is in thar order as well. Core, S2,SE
I've had SE's and currently own a CE and P22. In my opinion and experience, the S2 is not twice the guitar the SE is. The CE absolutely is twice the guitar the SE is. In fact, my CE can go toe to toe with my core P22.
Thanks for the feedback!
Seems the cost and time of shielding practically negates the price of costlier pots.
It be aight doe... Honestly PRS is great regardless of what level you choose and you definitely see noticeable improvements on each level you move up too. The amount you spend is solely up to you to decide if it is truly worth it or not? The USA PRS pickups are a HUGE upgrade, but the import pickups are not horrible at all. It's kind of like Duncan Designed versus Seymour Duncan pickups. They are both very good and sometimes you can get lucky and the Duncan Designed actually will sound better, but in general the real Seymour Duncans are consistently better. It's the same with PRS pickups.
I acquired a Core model a few years back. Then got an SE paul’s guitar. I then purchased an S2 custom 24. I sold the Core and got rid of the SE. The S2 is my main gig I even a got a couple others, an S2 single cut and an S2 studio. My SE looked incredible, i kept it on the wall cause looked so good but obviously not a great sounding and feeling guitar.
Nice! That’s a pretty good S2 endorsement right there!
It seems that you are measuring the neck pu of the S2 with the split coil switch engaged. Therefore the difference in output and DC resistance
Yes, thank you. I mentioned this in another post/comment, but I had it re-tested after the video by a luthier and it was higher than in this video, but still far less than the SE neck pickup for some reason. So I had the pickups changed out to a set of 58/15 LT. New video coming about that.
@@IamMusicNerd By the way, that case is outstanding; even PRS cores do not have such beautiful case.
The S2 body shape, the way it look and the locking tuners and the looks of the S2 is better. I would get the S2 and not get the Core which is way to much money.
Good points
On the S2 your toggle switches weren't set the same on your two pickups, I am guessing you had neck pickup at single coil mode is why you got the low reading.
Thanks for the heads up. You are probably right, but I also had it tested multiple times with a local luthier during different tune ups, and he also said the output on the neck pickup was lower than the SE neck pickup, and I know he verified both humbucker and coil split mode. The difference was probably much less than the multi-meter reading in this video, but it was certainly noticeable when switching back and forth between guitars.
But it doesn’t really matter to me anymore because I changed the pickups in the S2 to 58/15 LT pickups, which are both lower output than the SE, but I like the tone a little more than the 85/15 ones. I’ll make a video about that soon to replace this one. Thanks again!
Definitely not US 8515's on that SE... Those aren't the US Shop bobbins, guessing it's just a sticker issue.
SE’s are great but if you have $1000 more to spend it will not go to waste on a S2 or a CE24. Highly recommend the CE24.
of course it is 👍 depends on what you are looking for! A Chevy or a Cadillac both do the job.
One is solid and the other is semi-hollow, more wood vs less wood. They're not going to sound the same or resonate the same. In the end, it's which one you enjoy playing.
Agree. I wasn’t really trying to find $1,000 worth of tone difference, I was mostly just comparing build quality and features you get for the extra $1,000. But I love them both and happy I have each of them.
This se is so great because its the South Korean factory. I got my baritone from there. The new se’s are great but its a different factory in Indonesia
True
Those pickups might have been labeled wrong, I thought regular 85/15's were black and the s types were white and black..
They are definitely labeled wrong. They are the Korean made pickups for sure, because of the G&B label, so they should be the s version of the 85/15
I’d never buy a guitar new anymore. I got my S2 used for 700. I love it and it’s my main guitar over my USA strat and tele
quick update. prs just released after market 58/15 and 85/15 core pickups
Yep! First time they’ve ever done that. I had to get a set :)
2 lovely guitars, but I bet they both soumd and play different. So, which one? depends on what you're looking for
Agree, which is why I ended up keeping both :)
I don’t think the fret wire is the same. I believe if you play a lot you’ll be re fretting the SE much sooner than the S2.
Yes if you engage more, or no if you don't. Next question?
That must be a Unicorn because I have never seen another SE like that one with an f-hole. There are none listed on Reverb either. *ALL* of the PRS guitars with an f-hole on Reverb are either Custom, S2, or Private Stock.
Ya, it was a dealer exclusive where they ordered 30 custom made SE’s specially made for the guitar shop’s 30th anniversary. I just got lucky to get one before they sold out.
@@IamMusicNerd
You lucky son of a gun. I would love to hear how good it sounds.
Fortunately PRS now sells the 85/15s separately
Good to know! I may need to get a set of those.
The plain white inlays are ABS.
Vey interesting video…
I’m no PRS super fan but IMO, it’s great time when you can take 3 different models of guitar from PRS from the $4k Core guitar to the $900 SE and have them be comparable.
Even as good as the inspired by Gibson newer Epiphones are, you’d never be this close between the two lines/models and I at times begrudgingly love Gibson guitars. I own a prized LP Classic that I’ve invested much time and money into that I’d never part with. I have a Fender CS Esquire as well that I adore but it wasn’t cheap nor was it perfect upon arrival (bought used as new prices are insane).
However, PRS keeps narrowing the divide between the SE line and the Core line.
The PRS brand is all about the details (frets, joints, finish, binding, pups,, etc.).
The Core guitars are honestly on a different level from a detail, feel, and spec standpoint but they’re almost doing too well w/these newer SE models as they at times make the argument that the extra cash for the S2 over the SE only brings you a little more detail (PRS headstock badging, sometimes tuners, carve, inlays, etc.)…Things that really don’t necessarily greatly impact the actual tone of the guitar. And if something does (pups, tuners, bridge), it can be replaced.
PRS is really smart in the fact that they know a lot of SE customers will replace the tuners and maybe even the pups once you have that guitar and are ready to upgrade. And they know what you really want is a Core model so Paul and PRS do all they can to get you in the door.
Not everyone moves on to the Core model. Frankly, the point that you and many have made too is that you don’t need to.
Can you imagine just grabbing any Epiphone and Gibson off the wall for a comparison? Heck, at times even the Gibson could be a dud.
Great points!
Looks like you have the neck pickup in the coil tap position on the S2.
Yes, I added a note about this. My luthier restated after this video, and it was closer than the reading in this video, but still far less than the SE neck pickup for some reason. Seems it was underwound. But I ended up changing the pickups to 58/15 LT after this video anyway. :)
Those plastic bird inlays really do make the guitar look cheap, some abalone dot markers would be much better. Nice looking guitar though. my problem is I want a full blown core model and I cannot justify spending the money, so I don't buy the lesser models. I have also come to the conclusion that binding is in reality a none organic materiel that I would rather not have on the guitar, but that's just me. I think the less plastic on the neck the better.
Fair point
Music Nerd does the SE sound as good as the standard one?
Yes. As long as they both have the 85/15 pickups, I don’t hear much of a difference in tone between them. They sound very similar. The differences are mostly in feel. The USA version usually has more polished fret ends, neck, tuners, etc. But tone wise they are almost identical to my ears.
@@IamMusicNerd I noticed PRSs have really good note clarity, good pickups.
Is there a big difference in the sound with the Semi Hollow Body?
I would not say it’s a big difference. The semi-hollow definitely has a different resonance that you can hear when playing clean tones. It’s almost like a built in piezo that’s very quiet, or like a slight reverb. And of course, the guitar is much lighter.
If you’re playing with overdrive at higher volumes, you won’t hear much of difference at all, with the one exception being that the semi-hollow can produce feedback easier sometimes.
But at lower volumes with clean tones you can hear a slight acoustic quality under the notes. Other than that, the tone is very similar.
@@IamMusicNerd Thanks for the in depth response
You can buy the 58/15 pickups all over the place, $500 seems to be. Msrp
Yes, typically you can find used ones for about $500. I was able to get a new set from Zach at Mythos pedals, and about once a year PRS will sell a limited quantity on their website, but usually you can only find used ones on Reverb or eBay.
Short answer, no. Just pay a Little More for a CE or Core. Btw you lucked out with the SE specs on that one omg. Never sell the SE
Thanks, I plan to hang on to it forever :)
Your incorrect on the pickups, I have a 35th anniversary SE and it has the TCI S pickups in it and the abalone inlays
Yes, I know the SE’s do, and the S2’s are supposed to as well. My SE was a limited custom order, and appears to have something different. But the S2 is the one that’s really strange because the readings were so much lower than the other 35th anniversary S2’s. My luthier thinks it may have been underwound by accident, but I have changed the pickups since this video anyway to a set of USA 58/15 LT
@@IamMusicNerd Fair enough, maybe worth an email to PRS support to confirm your findings
Agree. Fortunately, my luthier is an authorized PRS repair shop, so he sent them the info.
I have 85/15's in my core 24. They are very loud. The main difference between these two guitars in my opinion, would be the positioning of the neck pickups. They are going to sound quite different, and you might not prefer the 24 fret one. Whatever sound you like, you can be sure that PRS only makes beautiful guitars. Never seen an ugly PRS.
For me, the fundamental value difference is that the S2 is a PRS guitar built in my home state of Maryland, while the SE is a Cort guitar built in Indonesia.
True
watching the video for me the S2 is WAY WAY better, it looks a different league. Each to their own and all that but to me there's no comparison. You get what you pay for for sure here IMO.
You’re probably right. My point was just that this SE is the most upscale one I have ever found (ie, binding all the way around body, neck ,headstock, etc which even the S2 doesn’t have). The S2 is most definitely nicer, no question, I just wasn’t sure if it was $1,000 nicer. But it’s a killer guitar.
@@IamMusicNerd for about 13yrs now my main guitar has been a PRS Custom 22 in Blue Matteo....its a great guitar as you know most of the top shelf PRS Customs etc dont have binding, but the maple cap serves as a binding visually. I did get one of the first runs of the SE Custom long before they did the beveled tops like they do in recent years and that too was a great guitar although on mine the trem wouldn't hold tune very well..but that was probably just a nut filing fix which I never did, just used that guitar without the bar. The new 2020/21 customs look awesome and soubd as good in the reviews I've seen. Obviously you can see multi piece bodies and necks which is a big money saver, I'm tempted to get another now but need to trybone out as I believe the necks are a bit skinny and my PRS has the wide/fat carve which is what I'm used to. I can play skinny necks but don't enjoy them as much...anyways thought your S2 was beautiful!!
Nice, sounds like you have a lot of great info and experience. Thanks for sharing!
You don't have to spend this much for an S2 - there are the Standards to consider. An S2 Standard Satin is more like $1500, still looks good IMO, and the satin finish on the neck is more playable (again IMO).
Yes! Love the S2 Satins. I got one for about 1k and it's easily my favorite guitar in my collection now. And yeah the satin neck is killer!
@@gabrielpettit3989I already own a se Custom 24, is it worth upgrading to a s2 standard 24 dots satin white which costs me only 999 euros in a special offer?
I've owned a custom, s2 and se... In many ways I prefer the s2 more than the others.
Nice! Ya, I love the feel of the S2 a lot.
Sorry to pop the bubble my friend but the source of both the pickups is Korea . Ignore the little label they are both STAMPED B&G . This is the Korean company that make the pickups for PRS SE and S . The Korean Bernie model around a decade ago did a limited run with coil taps and USA 85/15 which not retail at $600
Correct. I referenced that in the notes as well. Appreciate the comment!
Core has 1" maple Cap, not two "
What guitar shop in AZ did you order these from?
Does the bag come in a hard case by default?
The S2 normally comes in just a gig bag. I paid extra to get a PRS hard case for it.
@@IamMusicNerd Thank you for answer.