Jay, you have an incredible gift! I love watching your content, and dream that one day my guitar makes music that is even 10% of what you just played on this video …. (Human) !😂 My Dad’s early 70’s Hagstrom SG styled guitar has always been the holy grail for me! So light and a beautiful low setup that somehow never buzzes! If only I could get my Gibson SG setup that nice!
I have an older S2 Standard 24 without the pickup covers. This was the best deal on a brand new USA made guitar you could find at the time and it probably still is.
I never got along with SGs. They look cool but I always liked playing my Les Paul more. Got a PRS 594 S2 last year and it’s hard to put it down. These are workhorse guitars 👌 Very under appreciated imo
I have a PRS 513 with a stunning finish on it and it is every bit the quality that ANY Gibson I've owned. That would include numerous Les Paul customs and SG customs and even my 59 reissue. Price ranges are similar on these high end units.
I had the same issue with the SG. I purchased a beautiful custom SG and after 3 days I took it back to the store. Could not stay in tune, neck was moving around like a wet noodle…. Happy with my Suhr guitars 😎🎸👍
Yeah I have a Gibson SG that needed some work on the nut before it would stay in tune at all. And yeah, if you wobble that neck it’s going all over the place. Once I adjusted my touch, I learned to absolutely love it, though.
Everything you did to that guitar makes that guitar a must have!!! I would have never considered buying or even reviewing that PRS model because it lacks the PRS flair that I'm drawn to. However, because of you, i not only want one, same color, but i now desire it and find it stunning!!! It looks like the evolution of the SG when held side by side!!! Don't even miss the bird inlays. Abalone or otherwise. The way you attack the notes really helped in demonstrating ALL of the various tones the axe offers along with your specific mods. GREAT JOB!!!
Thanks so much! I did find those mods really got the guitar exactly where I wanted it to be. Still don't know why they ever discontinued that color though!
I spoke with John Mann when I put his gold bridge on my SE Custom 24. He's a really nice guy and he answered all my questions. I wired my SE Custom 24 to have the same wiring as the Custom 24, and I also installed a push/push on my tone control to get even more tone options. It's nice to know I'm not the only one who has done this! It's awesome. Though I did wire mine just a little differently. And you read that right. I installed a push/push. Not a push/pull. IMO the push/push is far superior and everyone should try a push/push
My entire childhood I wanted to be a Les Paul guy, but growing up in Sri Lanka at a time when the only music store was Yamaha, I had no chance to even try one. Fast forward a couple of years, I move to the US and I can finally sit down with a couple of Gibsons, and after all those years of dreaming of being “that guy” I just couldn’t vibe with the necks. I ended up going the Fender route for a very long time. Now I’ve got SG special that I adore, and my eyes on a PRS Vela, but I still haven’t ever played a Les Paul I loved.
@@BrandonShannonPaul no I got the frost blue metallic. I routed the middle and added another prs d style neck pup, and I took the gloss off of the back of the neck and it’s been my main player since.
I also have the PRS S2 in antique white I got it back in 2020 it's a fabulous guitar I play this the most even though I have 9 other guitars including a Gibson Les Paul standard premium 4A top 2013 that I also love, I love the color of your guitar just wish I could play it as well as you thank you, Jay, for all your videos.
Hey JayLeonardJ, I'm new to the channel and I think I'm going to like it here. Great content from what I've seen so far. I love your wiring Set up. Looking forward to how to build that for myself. Thank you
I bought a Travis Bean aluminum neck koa body guitar in the early 80's from Richard Lloyd of the band Television, It was SO PRETTY (and worth a lot today - wish I'd kept it!). It weighed a ton, but I didn't care - I was all about the sustain - although... I was already having doubts about the humbuckers, as I'd only played single coils up until then and liked (and still like, if I have to choose) their sound more. A week later, my first gig with it, at CBGBs in NYC. It was January. The guitar had been in the van all day. We start performing, and that aluminum neck starts warming up and expanding, and the guitar was going like a quarter step sharp during each song! It was a total dumpster fire. Plus, my shoulder was pissed, my left trap felt it had no circulation... in fact it felt like the weight was literally screwing up my left hand playing. I sold it the next day. "Prettiest girl in school", but too high maintenance!
Well said (esp. description of the SG 'working class, get to work,' etc.). Super informative, fun, and entertaining (as usual!).. Another excellent episode! P.S. I will post the interview soon-ish - I promise! P.S. I fixed the neck dive on my SG by mounting automotive truck tire weights on the ass-end of my strap.
I always wanted an SG but couldn't gel with the controls and the long neck. I actually found what I was looking for in a PRS Starla. I'd also recommend a Mira for people in that situation.
Great review! I love the wiring on your S2! Super useful sounds. You have really explained why I’ve never really been able to connect with Gibsons? I love the sound and the look, but coming from Tele’s and Strats have had a hard time getting into them. Tuning issues. Weight. To some degree, layout. Your analogy of chasing a girl who has it all, but isn’t the right fit, is right on! I’ve started playing in a drop tuning (C# Standard), which is modulating my attack, and technique. Maybe I could handle being more measured with a 335, or Les Paul? I hear you on being intimidated by the ‘preciousness’ of some guitars. I LOVE the look of flamed wood, but when guitars are too fancy, expensive and clean I hold back. It’s one of the reasons a prefer ‘relic’ guitars.
I don't know... Got my hand on a 2014 Gibson SGJ (the one with 2 61' Zebra pickups), and i've never played such a quality guitar. Everything about it is perfect, especially the neck feel and the light, liiight weight. It's unbelievable.
That's crazy ! My first electric guitar was an Epiphone G-400, so an SG, and I had that neck problem you're talking about. I always thought it was because it was a low end guitar, and always thought that, one day, I would have a nice and sturdy Gibson SG... LOL !!! 😅 I think I'm just like you, it's not the guitar for me ! I've never had this problem with Fender-style guitars or even ES-335s. I will seriously consider this PRS ! Thanks for all your cool videos man !
This is the exact reason i have my PRS S2. Overall i love it, but i will say the fret job was not good, and there are like 5 frets where the E strings are very prone to rolling off the board. I love what you did to the electronics. I'm gonna have to try that on mine
Ah this was perfect! Just as I was about to get in the comments to ask for a wiring diagram, I heard you say you’re doing A VIDEO ABOUT IT, WITH THE WIRING DIAGRAM! That made my day, and just confirmed that you’re the most awesome guitar content creator on UA-cam. And sick playing as always man! 🔥 I’ve been slowly modding my SE Standard, first with Seymour Duncans that cost almost as much as the guitar itself 😂 and the 5-way switch is definitely up next!
Great playing on that S2, Jay! I’ve always loved Les Pauls but never could get a Gibson in my hands that felt and sounded how I wanted. I bought a McCarty 594 Singlecut a few years ago (same 58/15 LT pickups that you have) and it blew me away. That is my ultimate “rock guitar” in every way.
Just picked up a custom 24 SE, and the one change I did was instead of the push-pull, I did a push push. Tap instead of pull. Faster switch between them while playing.
SG….. is Strum , strum …. Tune Strum strum strum…. Tune Last chord big power chord….. tune 😂😂😂 love you jay…. Ur awesome !! Your channel is the best !!
That's pretty much how I feel about Tele and PRS Vela. I can't stand teles' ergonomic although tele body is the first electric guitar body shape that I fell in love with. The Vela has a little bit of Tele DNA but also its own thing and very comfortable to play,. It was so good when I finally got the chance to try one out a few months ago
I own both. If there was no history to the SG (iconic players, rock history, etc) and I just encountered both with no preconceived notions, I'd likely pick the PRS for its balance, fretboard, neck carve, and versatile tone. That said, I love my SG too.
I had the 61 SG reissue because of Angus Young but like you it just wasn’t right for my play style so I traded it in for a brand new 1993 PRS CE 24 maple top with a Brazilian rosewood fingerboard and never looked back. Absolutely love this guitar!
Bought a new '71 SG Standard after trying out 7-8 Les Pauls (and 3-4 SGs) at Sam Ash on W 48th in Manhattan. Great guitar, except for the tuning stability. Once I replaced the bridge and plastic saddles with a Schaller the sustain noticeably improved.
I wanted to like the Les Paul so much but after owning a LP Standard and Studio plus a lot of tone mods like high quality pots , caps and bridge , I could never bond . I do like the LP Special P90 and LP Jr P90 very much . I own the PRS S2 Standard 22 just like yours and it is a Gem .
I'm an SG guy through and through, that PRS sounds killer! I use a tele for my single coil needs, but would love to get a hold of an SG Classic with P90s someday.
If you want to have your own music or your own “sound” you have to grow up. you can’t constantly be insecure worrying about what other people will think, no one cares. whatever you’re into, think about why you weren’t into it 8 years ago and why you are now. this guy will always be a successful musician because he knows who he is. he doesn’t need people to tell him what guitars are cool IE a PRS S2 Standard. if it’s made in the US or Japan, especially by a legacy company, it’s going to be a great guitar. if you play a guitar, you can make almost any quality model special. you’re not in highschool, you don’t need other people who also don’t make a living playing music telling you how to feel or what to buy with the money you worked for. no one cares 🙏
I had a couple. I play Archtops, mostly. I had a few Gretsch & Gibson guitars. 6120’s, white falcon, ES175. They just couldn’t quite scratch the itch i was after. So, it got the idea in my head about building guitars. I built for about 10 years & ended up building the guitars that did that thing I needed. The second was the Les Paul. My Les Paul is the First major guitars purchase I made. I still have it, after many years. In my mind it had to be the perfect guitar. I mean, how could it not be? A black Les Paul custom! But, As much as I love it, it barely gets more than occasional studio work. It’s amazing at what it does but, it’s just not “the guitar for me”
Similar story. I got an SG (with P-90's) and really wanted to love it. But, it just felt awkward to me and the neck dive was terrible. I would up geting an s2 Standard 24 that became my goto, until I got a CE24 and sold it. Love the CE but wish I had kept the S2, as well. Looking for a new one.
In 1979 was 19 I drooled over the pictures of the Gibson SG in the Bell music catalogue, but they were way out of my price range , so just like Brian may I built my own!! It looked great but it sounded average, I ended up buying a Washburn falcon A pretty solid guitar, love the S2 it would be the PRS I'd go for but I'd prefer 22frets, great content and incredible playing, love it that it's not all maxed out hi gain stuff, for me the most important tones are it the over the edge of break up to crunchy tones show where the guitar is at, regards from the UK!
Great video JayLJay. I think the single coil/spit sounds were the best on this video. Both guitars humbuckers on full just sounded absolutely awful. I'm not sure why that is only ears. I do like both but would have to take the PRS and upgrade the pickups. Maybe a P90 in the neck and a splittable humbucker in the bridge position. Keep rolling .
wow, that wiring would take a bit to get used to, but, what a massive variety. loved the split neck on its own. bridge humbucker was sg tone on steroids with so much more clarity. what i really like about the guitar is if you're playing at a venue with noise introduced into your single pick up guitar, just switch to humbucker mode or split plus humbucker might tame noise. very nice guitar mate.
I have the exact same guitar (61 reissue). It's an awesome guitar for rock. In order to get a good sound from it, you need to wrestle with it. It's a bad boy that likes to play rough. But the tuning thing with the splayed strings, that has always driven me nuts. Best fix I've found is to get a pencil and lube up the nut with graphite.
My first guitar was a Raven SG. I put a Lawrence pu to bridge and a Carvin neck pu with coil tap switch. Had jumbo frets installed and I was in heaven. Then I got particular about wood and thought the body was plywood, sold/traded with an old German guy named Albert for a Firebrand Gibson SG, which was sweet. However when I bought I'd mentioned as long as it wasn't a Firebrand, and guess what it was. He swapped me cash and guitar for a Les Paul Delux Goldtop with soapbar pu's. It actually paled in performance to the SG and I eventually sold it because it fed back badly at the volumes I was playing. Fast track to now and I have a wine coloured Les Paul STD I love at about 11 lbs, and another Gibson I really like an Explorer with burnt maple fretboard. Would love a lighter SG standard should it come into my orbit.
I have a (Core) Mira that looks like your PRS. It has a hard tail, but I prefer that. I agree with you that the mahogany transparent red is the most beautiful finish on a guitar.
I was thinking how much better this S2 sounded than I was expecting, then you said you upgraded the pickups to the 58/15 LT’s and it made much more sense. The S2 variants of the pickups are really the Achilles Heal of the S2 guitars in my experience. It’s really nice that PRS is offering the new pickups separately, at least temporarily.
Interesting wiring mod, but you could have taken it further. Include the option when splitting pickups to select which position the split pickup was in, either forward or rearward. I noticed when you split your bridge pickup it was in the forward position. It would have been nice to hear the spit in the rear position (closest to the bridge). A very nice guitar and demo playing was good to.
There's a reason companies copy Gibson guitars. After test-driving many high-end electric guitars including most of the PRS upper crust lines, I purchased a 2023 SG. The instrument is cosmetically flawless right out of the box. Plugged into my Fender Deluxe Reverb, the guitar has perfectly balanced clean tones and unbeatable overdrive. I know it's popular to belittle Gibson, but the SG is by far the best electric guitar I've played to date. I expect there will be more comparisons falling short of the Gibson magic.
Now PRS is putting all USA electronics in all S2 guitars. Prices go up 250 for pups that cost 500 on the street. That same guitar with satin finish for 1500. It's a solid deal I want one.
Always wanted a Les Paul, but never could conect. Had an SG too. But in the end the strat disappears in my hands and I play music not fiddle with gear. So strat is the one.
Your mods are great The brass block is smart Great job Sounds Great The guitar that I grew up 3 or 4 times Gibson Les Paul Not a good fit Matter of fact most Gibsons
I’ve always wanted to love flying V’s, but the necks are too thin for my playing style. I’m an SG player. My 2005 SG has a 59’ profile that seems to withstand my abuse better than like say a 61’ neck. I will definitely check out one of those PRS. Im heavy handed as well and play punked up metal so I get a little crazy at times. I’ve had the same experience as you with bending the neck and going out of tune easily. Thanks for sharing this J. I admit I have been biased towards certain body styles and manufacturers because of what my hero’s have played, marketing hype and plain old gear acquisition syndrome. I used to think I needed a Les Paul that weighed 15lbs to get good tone. I also used to think I needed a guitar that looked like fine Amish furniture. As I’ve gotten older and maybe wiser I really enjoy light guitars with good upper fret access. I broke my fret hand wrist years ago and have some mobility issues when playing. I also don’t miss my shoulder and back hurting after playing 3 hours sets.
Nice video and playing. Both great guitars. I find that my PRS core 24 and my Gibson SG 61 reissue sound more alike than any of my other guitars...such as my Gibson Les Paul classic, PRS Chris Robertson single cut, etc. Both have a slim body may be why. I think my PRS core 24 is my favorite sounding guitar because it has all of the high frequencies and enough of the low end fatness without too much low end to get muddy. My cousin has the PRS model you have and it sounds and plays really great too. I really love my SG though also... it's a killer guitar and I play it just as much as my core 24... but my 24 is more versatile with the coil tapping, etc...but both killer guitars... and they both sound different enough that I don't plan to ever sell my SG. I like how it's super clear sounding and can get you most of the tones you need... except for the tele strat single coil tones. Good thing about the SG is you can play any pro gig with it, sounds, epic, and it's not too expensive for a pro phenomenal sounding instrument...
There was an S2 briefly made that had the HFS and Vintage Bass pickups in it, sounded glorious. They no longer make it but dang I wish I got one then, they were only around $1,000 too! The new pickups arent nearly as good but like every company they cut costs and raised prices.
An S.G. responds to a string bend like no other guitar. My R. and Standard are quite stable guitars and the neck aren't really thin. As for PRS, I'd liken the McCarty Thinline to an SG the most, but I do see what you're saying. BTW I bet you used an Oak-Grigsby 5-way switch? I use those for my secret Strat wirings. Great job as usual.
Good video. The only thing that keeps me away from these guitars is that I prefer the wider Pattern or Pattern Thin over the Pattern Regular. I just don't get along that well with the narrow nut ... not sure why Paul doesn't just do them all with 1 11/16" ... everyone likes that width.
I've tried PRS at GC and whatever has crossed my work bench. They're great guitars and sound fantastic, but I couldn't really bond with it. Nothing about it made me want the guitar. Maybe I haven't found the right PRS for me or that I still prefer the SG warts and all as an SG fan/owner myself. Though my SG took a back seat to my Gretsch 6120 as my main. So my preferences could've just changed.
So I moved away from Les Pauls after I tired of the weight, the incessibility of the higher frets and uncomfortable ergonomics. A couple of years ago I tried my hand at the SG and loved how the body felt but I didn't like how far the nut was away from the body...so I sold it. Recently, I discovered that 1972-1984 SG's have their neck set further into the body such that the space between the fretboard and neck pickup - found on all SG's outside this year range - is closed up. This small difference makes a big difference to the feel and balance of the SG. But I'm unsure if it's enough for me; time will tell. Edit: I'm considering a PRS Mira.
Damn man. I love the look of the SG but I swear I've given it four tries and I just can't get that sustain on it. My first "SG" was a Vintage VS6 copy way back in the day and slowly graduated to an Epiphone G400 Custom, an Inspired by Gibson SG and then a Gibson Standard. Of course the SG was better along the way but I honestly expected a little more sustain from the Gibson. Maybe I got a dud, I dunno but I ended up selling it. Love the look but it just sounded so dull no matter what I did to it.
Oddly enough, the only guitars I wanted to get on with but couldn’t were PRS. I really tried to love the Vela when it first came out. Recently, it be been Jonesing for an SG. I doubt that S2 is gonna do it for me.
The BC Rich Warlock was like that for me I had had many BC Rich is over the years I played Mockingbirds and b****** but I always wanted a warlock finally got two around the same time and what I realized is that they really hurt my right shoulder after a while of playing the weight might I pick while I'm holding warlock causes my shoulder to get tendonitis I've never had that issue with any other guitar and it's heartbreaking
The one guitar that I’ve always wanted to love but just can’t seem to connect with is the PRS Custom 24 (core model) and basically any of the USA core models. Although, I played a black Custom 24 a few years ago, without a fancy quilt or flame top that was decent. However, in general, I haven’t felt a vibe with them. They look cool but they feel “dead” to me. I’m always left feeling disappointed after playing one. On the other hand, I’ve felt a stronger connection to some of the S2 and SE models.
I totalllllllly get it JLJ. I have a gorgeous white Pete Townshend Gibson SG hanging on the wall that never gets played. It's too long for a smaller person and the neck sits too far to the left. While I don't have problems keeping it in tune, the neck is like a rubber band and you need to be very conscious of how you are playing so you don't play out of tune. My PRS Mira S2 hardtail is a much better guitar in every way (for me) and stays in tune for an entire gig....plus it has a better range of tones.
I prefer the sound of the SG. The attack, bite, transient is really different, and I prefer that of the SG. IMHO, the ring and sting of the SG is the sound of an SG, and those aspects are too tamed and smoothed in the PRS. JLJ's playing is absolutely killer, as always.
I've never cared for the Gibson SG, I don't like headstock dive they are prone to and the neck/body joint just feels weird in the playing position. It's like a top heavy boat, the body is too thin to balance the weight of the neck. If they'd have just made the body a bit thicker it probably would be just fine. All that said, I think the PRS S2 is a great choice, I've played several and I like its larger, thicker body, deeper cutaways and smaller headstock which give it better balance. I like what you did with the wiring, you've made a good guitar great.
isn't at interesting; my cherry red double cut SG (61) i gave away and ended up with the core CU 24; now i would like an S2 just like the one you showcase here; nice job;
love your line ‘90% of the people in the world are gonna be fine with this because they actually play guitar like human beings’ lol so good
PRS Vela owner here, which to me is the perfect SG meets Tele guitar, and also one of the prettiest guitars PRS makes.
YES! Absolutely! Those are so incredibly lightweight too
@@BrandonShannonPaul they are extremely ugly imo
@@rustedsunday7489 Uglier than an SG! Careful, 😂 that is kind of the pot calling the kettle black.
I own a Mira from 2008 and it's a great guitar. Versatile, simple, and stays in tune like a champ.
The fight with the sg is the challenge and hobby for me😊
Can you please explain what problems you're facing? I'm considering getting an SG special.
Jay, you have an incredible gift! I love watching your content, and dream that one day my guitar makes music that is even 10% of what you just played on this video …. (Human) !😂
My Dad’s early 70’s Hagstrom SG styled guitar has always been the holy grail for me! So light and a beautiful low setup that somehow never buzzes! If only I could get my Gibson SG setup that nice!
The OG Core PRS Mira (circa 2008, before the S2/SE) also functions more or less like an SG, and strongly resembles it.
For sure. I have a minty 2011 Core. Worth seeking out.
Have a black 08 Core Mira and one of the best guitars I’ve ever owned!
That would be great with a P-Rail in the neck.
Didn't even know that was a THING: I gotta try to source one of those out!
@@JayLeonardJ Brian’s Guitars in Ct has a 08 Black Mira for sale. Call them and ask about it. They’re awesome guitars and looks cool in black!
This is one of my top five episodes from you Jay! I just love listening to you talk about guitars and playing music!
That means a lot my friend!!! Hope to see you this week :)
That split tone is solid
I have an older S2 Standard 24 without the pickup covers. This was the best deal on a brand new USA made guitar you could find at the time and it probably still is.
My PRS S2 594 thinline is everything I wanted my SG to be and more.
I never got along with SGs. They look cool but I always liked playing my Les Paul more.
Got a PRS 594 S2 last year and it’s hard to put it down.
These are workhorse guitars 👌
Very under appreciated imo
I have a PRS 513 with a stunning finish on it and it is every bit the quality that ANY Gibson I've owned. That would include numerous Les Paul customs and SG customs and even my 59 reissue. Price ranges are similar on these high end units.
That you use a Bad Cat amp is something I respect a whole lot.
I've really grown attached to that Hot Cat. Great box!
King of the hill!!!!!
Yeah!
I had the same issue with the SG. I purchased a beautiful custom SG and after 3 days I took it back to the store. Could not stay in tune, neck was moving around like a wet noodle…. Happy with my Suhr guitars 😎🎸👍
Yeah I have a Gibson SG that needed some work on the nut before it would stay in tune at all. And yeah, if you wobble that neck it’s going all over the place. Once I adjusted my touch, I learned to absolutely love it, though.
The Gretsch White Falcon. It looks so cool when Billy Duffy plays it but the best description of it is it feels like someone put strings on a bathtub.
Those Falcons just looks so crazy beautiful that it doesn't even mater what they sound like, haha
that PRS sounds great!
Thanks!
Since before I ever played SG beats LP for me every time. They're just sweet as hell 🤘
Loved your story, Jay. Your enthusiasm is infectious.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Everything you did to that guitar makes that guitar a must have!!! I would have never considered buying or even reviewing that PRS model because it lacks the PRS flair that I'm drawn to. However, because of you, i not only want one, same color, but i now desire it and find it stunning!!! It looks like the evolution of the SG when held side by side!!! Don't even miss the bird inlays. Abalone or otherwise. The way you attack the notes really helped in demonstrating ALL of the various tones the axe offers along with your specific mods. GREAT JOB!!!
Thanks so much! I did find those mods really got the guitar exactly where I wanted it to be. Still don't know why they ever discontinued that color though!
I spoke with John Mann when I put his gold bridge on my SE Custom 24. He's a really nice guy and he answered all my questions. I wired my SE Custom 24 to have the same wiring as the Custom 24, and I also installed a push/push on my tone control to get even more tone options. It's nice to know I'm not the only one who has done this! It's awesome. Though I did wire mine just a little differently. And you read that right. I installed a push/push. Not a push/pull. IMO the push/push is far superior and everyone should try a push/push
S2 and Core Mira models are true SG-killers! I had an early 1 of 100 (MD, USA made) S2 Mira in white limba (korina). Best guitar I have ever played.
My entire childhood I wanted to be a Les Paul guy, but growing up in Sri Lanka at a time when the only music store was Yamaha, I had no chance to even try one. Fast forward a couple of years, I move to the US and I can finally sit down with a couple of Gibsons, and after all those years of dreaming of being “that guy” I just couldn’t vibe with the necks. I ended up going the Fender route for a very long time. Now I’ve got SG special that I adore, and my eyes on a PRS Vela, but I still haven’t ever played a Les Paul I loved.
I have the Vela. I’ve owned A LOT of guitars. Vela is easily the best guitar I’ve ever owned.
@@allidoisplay that seems to be the consensus I’m finding from anyone who’s had one. Did you get one of the satin finished ones?
@@BrandonShannonPaul no I got the frost blue metallic. I routed the middle and added another prs d style neck pup, and I took the gloss off of the back of the neck and it’s been my main player since.
@@allidoisplay that sounds like an absolute dream. Enjoy it in good health dude
Yup, that PRS is a killer guitar. I agree, Brass trem blocks are worth the upgrade. I have those installed in my Strats.
I also have the PRS S2 in antique white I got it back in 2020 it's a fabulous guitar I play this the most even though I have 9 other guitars including a Gibson Les Paul standard premium 4A top 2013 that I also love, I love the color of your guitar just wish I could play it as well as you thank you, Jay, for all your videos.
Thanks!
i went on the same journey but ended up with an s2 mccarty 594, technically more les paul like but the scale length is an absolute dream to play.
Hey JayLeonardJ,
I'm new to the channel and I think I'm going to like it here. Great content from what I've seen so far.
I love your wiring Set up. Looking forward to how to build that for myself. Thank you
I really appreciate it!
I bought a Travis Bean aluminum neck koa body guitar in the early 80's from Richard Lloyd of the band Television, It was SO PRETTY (and worth a lot today - wish I'd kept it!). It weighed a ton, but I didn't care - I was all about the sustain - although... I was already having doubts about the humbuckers, as I'd only played single coils up until then and liked (and still like, if I have to choose) their sound more.
A week later, my first gig with it, at CBGBs in NYC. It was January. The guitar had been in the van all day. We start performing, and that aluminum neck starts warming up and expanding, and the guitar was going like a quarter step sharp during each song! It was a total dumpster fire. Plus, my shoulder was pissed, my left trap felt it had no circulation... in fact it felt like the weight was literally screwing up my left hand playing. I sold it the next day. "Prettiest girl in school", but too high maintenance!
I had a friend absolutely obsessed with a Travis Bean: Crazy that you had one: especially from Richard Lloyd 😮
Well said (esp. description of the SG 'working class, get to work,' etc.). Super informative, fun, and entertaining (as usual!).. Another excellent episode! P.S. I will post the interview soon-ish - I promise! P.S. I fixed the neck dive on my SG by mounting automotive truck tire weights on the ass-end of my strap.
Always great to hear from you! Glad you liked the vid and excited to see your vid :)
I always wanted an SG but couldn't gel with the controls and the long neck. I actually found what I was looking for in a PRS Starla. I'd also recommend a Mira for people in that situation.
Great review! I love the wiring on your S2! Super useful sounds.
You have really explained why I’ve never really been able to connect with Gibsons? I love the sound and the look, but coming from Tele’s and Strats have had a hard time getting into them. Tuning issues. Weight. To some degree, layout.
Your analogy of chasing a girl who has it all, but isn’t the right fit, is right on!
I’ve started playing in a drop tuning (C# Standard), which is modulating my attack, and technique. Maybe I could handle being more measured with a 335, or Les Paul?
I hear you on being intimidated by the ‘preciousness’ of some guitars. I LOVE the look of flamed wood, but when guitars are too fancy, expensive and clean I hold back. It’s one of the reasons a prefer ‘relic’ guitars.
12:25 love those triplet licky licks. I cannot do those but that will be added to my 2023 goals.
I don't know... Got my hand on a 2014 Gibson SGJ (the one with 2 61' Zebra pickups), and i've never played such a quality guitar. Everything about it is perfect, especially the neck feel and the light, liiight weight. It's unbelievable.
I have a 2020 standard 24 s2 pattern regular neck. Installed PRs 57/08 pickups. It’s been my number 1
I love these types of videos! Keep it up
Really apprecaite it!
That's crazy ! My first electric guitar was an Epiphone G-400, so an SG, and I had that neck problem you're talking about. I always thought it was because it was a low end guitar, and always thought that, one day, I would have a nice and sturdy Gibson SG... LOL !!! 😅
I think I'm just like you, it's not the guitar for me ! I've never had this problem with Fender-style guitars or even ES-335s. I will seriously consider this PRS !
Thanks for all your cool videos man !
This is the exact reason i have my PRS S2. Overall i love it, but i will say the fret job was not good, and there are like 5 frets where the E strings are very prone to rolling off the board.
I love what you did to the electronics. I'm gonna have to try that on mine
Ah this was perfect! Just as I was about to get in the comments to ask for a wiring diagram, I heard you say you’re doing A VIDEO ABOUT IT, WITH THE WIRING DIAGRAM! That made my day, and just confirmed that you’re the most awesome guitar content creator on UA-cam. And sick playing as always man! 🔥
I’ve been slowly modding my SE Standard, first with Seymour Duncans that cost almost as much as the guitar itself 😂 and the 5-way switch is definitely up next!
Hope the diagram helps! Enjoy :)
@@JayLeonardJ Thanks! Got the 5-way super switch now so going to give it a shot!
Great playing on that S2, Jay! I’ve always loved Les Pauls but never could get a Gibson in my hands that felt and sounded how I wanted. I bought a McCarty 594 Singlecut a few years ago (same 58/15 LT pickups that you have) and it blew me away. That is my ultimate “rock guitar” in every way.
That’s the ultimate set up for an s2! Great video and thanks for sharing. The tone and playing is so great also!
Thanks a ton!
Just picked up a custom 24 SE, and the one change I did was instead of the push-pull, I did a push push. Tap instead of pull. Faster switch between them while playing.
Super cool! I tried my spare push-push with mine but couldn't get the knob to sit on tight enough on the post. Might be worth another try
SG….. is
Strum , strum …. Tune
Strum strum strum…. Tune
Last chord big power chord….. tune
😂😂😂 love you jay…. Ur awesome !!
Your channel is the best !!
Thanks :)
Love the wiring configuration!
Thanks! Really appreciate it :)
Quickly becoming a fan!
I'm still waiting to find that Les Paul that I really connect with. Great video!
Thanks so much! Call me boring but there is something about a black LP that just looks so slick to me.
I'm so used to you playing a Tele!! But I like SG Jay haha it sounds so good with the way you play!!
Oh buddy, if I ever learn how to tame an SG, just watch out :)
Wow, great guitar. Can´t wait for that diagram, seems like what I was looking for.
Sounds great Jay. My Mira does this pretty well, with the SGs hardtail.
That's pretty much how I feel about Tele and PRS Vela. I can't stand teles' ergonomic although tele body is the first electric guitar body shape that I fell in love with. The Vela has a little bit of Tele DNA but also its own thing and very comfortable to play,. It was so good when I finally got the chance to try one out a few months ago
Yeah, after getting the Vela Semihollow my Tele went unplayed for months. Eventually sold it; don’t regret it at all.
I own both. If there was no history to the SG (iconic players, rock history, etc) and I just encountered both with no preconceived notions, I'd likely pick the PRS for its balance, fretboard, neck carve, and versatile tone. That said, I love my SG too.
I had the 61 SG reissue because of Angus Young but like you it just wasn’t right for my play style so I traded it in for a brand new 1993 PRS CE 24 maple top with a Brazilian rosewood fingerboard and never looked back. Absolutely love this guitar!
Angus Young rocks an SG like no other... especially with that Vibrola on it... sooo awesome!!
Bought a new '71 SG Standard after trying out 7-8 Les Pauls (and 3-4 SGs) at Sam Ash on W 48th in Manhattan. Great guitar, except for the tuning stability. Once I replaced the bridge and plastic saddles with a Schaller the sustain noticeably improved.
I wanted to like the Les Paul so much but after owning a LP Standard and Studio plus a lot of tone mods like high quality pots , caps and bridge , I could never bond . I do like the LP Special P90 and LP Jr P90 very much .
I own the PRS S2 Standard 22 just like yours and it is a Gem .
I'm an SG guy through and through, that PRS sounds killer! I use a tele for my single coil needs, but would love to get a hold of an SG Classic with P90s someday.
Man, the Woodstock movie was full of P90 SGs and they all sounded so awesome.
This is an amazing idea. Love yer stuff. Excellent guitar work and great stories. Thank you for sharing. I am a fan.
Really appreciate it :)
If you want to have your own music or your own “sound” you have to grow up. you can’t constantly be insecure worrying about what other people will think, no one cares. whatever you’re into, think about why you weren’t into it 8 years ago and why you are now. this guy will always be a successful musician because he knows who he is. he doesn’t need people to tell him what guitars are cool IE a PRS S2 Standard. if it’s made in the US or Japan, especially by a legacy company, it’s going to be a great guitar. if you play a guitar, you can make almost any quality model special. you’re not in highschool, you don’t need other people who also don’t make a living playing music telling you how to feel or what to buy with the money you worked for. no one cares 🙏
Great video Jay! I’m having your SG trouble with a Strat. I love the sound but it doesn’t sound great in my hanfs
I had a couple. I play Archtops, mostly. I had a few Gretsch & Gibson guitars. 6120’s, white falcon, ES175. They just couldn’t quite scratch the itch i was after. So, it got the idea in my head about building guitars. I built for about 10 years & ended up building the guitars that did that thing I needed. The second was the Les Paul. My Les Paul is the First major guitars purchase I made. I still have it, after many years. In my mind it had to be the perfect guitar. I mean, how could it not be? A black Les Paul custom! But, As much as I love it, it barely gets more than occasional studio work. It’s amazing at what it does but, it’s just not “the guitar for me”
Dude i have the same model. PRS i just put some Planet Tone humbucker sized P90s
In it. And PRS pots. I call it my SG only Bettter!!!!😂 WOOOOO
Similar story. I got an SG (with P-90's) and really wanted to love it. But, it just felt awkward to me and the neck dive was terrible. I would up geting an s2 Standard 24 that became my goto, until I got a CE24 and sold it. Love the CE but wish I had kept the S2, as well. Looking for a new one.
The mods rock. Wow!
Thanks!
In 1979 was 19 I drooled over the pictures of the Gibson SG in the Bell music catalogue, but they were way out of my price range , so just like Brian may I built my own!! It looked great but it sounded average, I ended up buying a Washburn falcon
A pretty solid guitar, love the S2 it would be the PRS I'd go for but I'd prefer 22frets, great content and incredible playing, love it that it's not all maxed out hi gain stuff, for me the most important tones are it the over the edge of break up to crunchy tones show where the guitar is at, regards from the UK!
Great video JayLJay. I think the single coil/spit sounds were the best on this video. Both guitars humbuckers on full just sounded absolutely awful. I'm not sure why that is only ears. I do like both but would have to take the PRS and upgrade the pickups. Maybe a P90 in the neck and a splittable humbucker in the bridge position. Keep rolling .
Really interested in that wiring. I love my McCarty but it’d be awesome to have more flexibility with the pickup configuration.
Yeah, that mod really took away a lot of my Custom 24-08 FOMO, haha.
wow, that wiring would take a bit to get used to, but, what a massive variety. loved the split neck on its own. bridge humbucker was sg tone on steroids with so much more clarity. what i really like about the guitar is if you're playing at a venue with noise introduced into your single pick up guitar, just switch to humbucker mode or split plus humbucker might tame noise. very nice guitar mate.
Definitely! Most of the time, I just stick with the five-way switch: only using the push-pull when going for split neck or split bridge tones :)
I have the exact same guitar (61 reissue). It's an awesome guitar for rock. In order to get a good sound from it, you need to wrestle with it. It's a bad boy that likes to play rough. But the tuning thing with the splayed strings, that has always driven me nuts. Best fix I've found is to get a pencil and lube up the nut with graphite.
My first guitar was a Raven SG. I put a Lawrence pu to bridge and a Carvin neck pu with coil tap switch. Had jumbo frets installed and I was in heaven. Then I got particular about wood and thought the body was plywood, sold/traded with an old German guy named Albert for a Firebrand Gibson SG, which was sweet. However when I bought I'd mentioned as long as it wasn't a Firebrand, and guess what it was. He swapped me cash and guitar for a Les Paul Delux Goldtop with soapbar pu's. It actually paled in performance to the SG and I eventually sold it because it fed back badly at the volumes I was playing. Fast track to now and I have a wine coloured Les Paul STD I love at about 11 lbs, and another Gibson I really like an Explorer with burnt maple fretboard. Would love a lighter SG standard should it come into my orbit.
Beautiful video, thank you!
I have a (Core) Mira that looks like your PRS. It has a hard tail, but I prefer that. I agree with you that the mahogany transparent red is the most beautiful finish on a guitar.
I was thinking how much better this S2 sounded than I was expecting, then you said you upgraded the pickups to the 58/15 LT’s and it made much more sense. The S2 variants of the pickups are really the Achilles Heal of the S2 guitars in my experience. It’s really nice that PRS is offering the new pickups separately, at least temporarily.
Interesting wiring mod, but you could have taken it further. Include the option when splitting pickups to select which position the split pickup was in, either forward or rearward. I noticed when you split your bridge pickup it was in the forward position. It would have been nice to hear the spit in the rear position (closest to the bridge). A very nice guitar and demo playing was good to.
There's a reason companies copy Gibson guitars. After test-driving many high-end electric guitars including most of the PRS upper crust lines, I purchased a 2023 SG. The instrument is cosmetically flawless right out of the box. Plugged into my Fender Deluxe Reverb, the guitar has perfectly balanced clean tones and unbeatable overdrive. I know it's popular to belittle Gibson, but the SG is by far the best electric guitar I've played to date. I expect there will be more comparisons falling short of the Gibson magic.
Really glad to hear about your love of your SG! I'm sure it is a monster: they are definitely legendary pieces of gear for good reason :)
Now PRS is putting all USA electronics in all S2 guitars. Prices go up 250 for pups that cost 500 on the street. That same guitar with satin finish for 1500. It's a solid deal I want one.
Wow, didn't realize they made a switch! Super cool!
Always wanted a Les Paul, but never could conect. Had an SG too. But in the end the strat disappears in my hands and I play music not fiddle with gear. So strat is the one.
Your mods are great The brass block is smart Great job Sounds Great The guitar that I grew up 3 or 4 times Gibson Les Paul Not a good fit Matter of fact most Gibsons
I feel that way about Strats. Amazing guitars that helped shape the sound of modern music but I can't get comfortable with one to save my life
I’ve always wanted to love flying V’s, but the necks are too thin for my playing style.
I’m an SG player. My 2005 SG has a 59’ profile that seems to withstand my abuse better than like say a 61’ neck.
I will definitely check out one of those PRS. Im heavy handed as well and play punked up metal so I get a little crazy at times. I’ve had the same experience as you with bending the neck and going out of tune easily.
Thanks for sharing this J. I admit I have been biased towards certain body styles and manufacturers because of what my hero’s have played, marketing hype and plain old gear acquisition syndrome.
I used to think I needed a Les Paul that weighed 15lbs to get good tone.
I also used to think I needed a guitar that looked like fine Amish furniture.
As I’ve gotten older and maybe wiser I really enjoy light guitars with good upper fret access.
I broke my fret hand wrist years ago and have some mobility issues when playing.
I also don’t miss my shoulder and back hurting after playing 3 hours sets.
Nice video and playing. Both great guitars. I find that my PRS core 24 and my Gibson SG 61 reissue sound more alike than any of my other guitars...such as my Gibson Les Paul classic, PRS Chris Robertson single cut, etc. Both have a slim body may be why. I think my PRS core 24 is my favorite sounding guitar because it has all of the high frequencies and enough of the low end fatness without too much low end to get muddy. My cousin has the PRS model you have and it sounds and plays really great too. I really love my SG though also... it's a killer guitar and I play it just as much as my core 24... but my 24 is more versatile with the coil tapping, etc...but both killer guitars... and they both sound different enough that I don't plan to ever sell my SG. I like how it's super clear sounding and can get you most of the tones you need... except for the tele strat single coil tones. Good thing about the SG is you can play any pro gig with it, sounds, epic, and it's not too expensive for a pro phenomenal sounding instrument...
A Core 24 and a SG 61 sound like a perfect duo to take over the world with! Thanks for writing :)
There was an S2 briefly made that had the HFS and Vintage Bass pickups in it, sounded glorious. They no longer make it but dang I wish I got one then, they were only around $1,000 too! The new pickups arent nearly as good but like every company they cut costs and raised prices.
was that the King of the Hill theme by the Refreshements?
Yas!
An S.G. responds to a string bend like no other guitar. My R. and Standard are quite stable guitars and the neck aren't really thin. As for PRS, I'd liken the McCarty Thinline to an SG the most, but I do see what you're saying. BTW I bet you used an Oak-Grigsby 5-way switch? I use those for my secret Strat wirings. Great job as usual.
Good video. The only thing that keeps me away from these guitars is that I prefer the wider Pattern or Pattern Thin over the Pattern Regular. I just don't get along that well with the narrow nut ... not sure why Paul doesn't just do them all with 1 11/16" ... everyone likes that width.
I've tried PRS at GC and whatever has crossed my work bench. They're great guitars and sound fantastic, but I couldn't really bond with it. Nothing about it made me want the guitar. Maybe I haven't found the right PRS for me or that I still prefer the SG warts and all as an SG fan/owner myself. Though my SG took a back seat to my Gretsch 6120 as my main. So my preferences could've just changed.
So I moved away from Les Pauls after I tired of the weight, the incessibility of the higher frets and uncomfortable ergonomics. A couple of years ago I tried my hand at the SG and loved how the body felt but I didn't like how far the nut was away from the body...so I sold it. Recently, I discovered that 1972-1984 SG's have their neck set further into the body such that the space between the fretboard and neck pickup - found on all SG's outside this year range - is closed up. This small difference makes a big difference to the feel and balance of the SG. But I'm unsure if it's enough for me; time will tell.
Edit: I'm considering a PRS Mira.
Damn man. I love the look of the SG but I swear I've given it four tries and I just can't get that sustain on it. My first "SG" was a Vintage VS6 copy way back in the day and slowly graduated to an Epiphone G400 Custom, an Inspired by Gibson SG and then a Gibson Standard. Of course the SG was better along the way but I honestly expected a little more sustain from the Gibson. Maybe I got a dud, I dunno but I ended up selling it. Love the look but it just sounded so dull no matter what I did to it.
Oddly enough, the only guitars I wanted to get on with but couldn’t were PRS. I really tried to love the Vela when it first came out. Recently, it be been Jonesing for an SG. I doubt that S2 is gonna do it for me.
SG vs Standard 24:
- bridge - 3:37 vs 7:56
- neck - 3:50 vs 8:05
The BC Rich Warlock was like that for me I had had many BC Rich is over the years I played Mockingbirds and b****** but I always wanted a warlock finally got two around the same time and what I realized is that they really hurt my right shoulder after a while of playing the weight might I pick while I'm holding warlock causes my shoulder to get tendonitis I've never had that issue with any other guitar and it's heartbreaking
subbed for king of the hill
haha
The one guitar that I’ve always wanted to love but just can’t seem to connect with is the PRS Custom 24 (core model) and basically any of the USA core models. Although, I played a black Custom 24 a few years ago, without a fancy quilt or flame top that was decent. However, in general, I haven’t felt a vibe with them. They look cool but they feel “dead” to me. I’m always left feeling disappointed after playing one. On the other hand, I’ve felt a stronger connection to some of the S2 and SE models.
Sg still looks ,sounds , and feels better to most.
I can't wait to get my hands on this wiring schematic! Is it already out?
It is! ua-cam.com/video/3L_Y3ziiBw4/v-deo.html
I totalllllllly get it JLJ. I have a gorgeous white Pete Townshend Gibson SG hanging on the wall that never gets played. It's too long for a smaller person and the neck sits too far to the left. While I don't have problems keeping it in tune, the neck is like a rubber band and you need to be very conscious of how you are playing so you don't play out of tune. My PRS Mira S2 hardtail is a much better guitar in every way (for me) and stays in tune for an entire gig....plus it has a better range of tones.
How many pieces of wood is the prs made of? Makes a huge difference on the sound.
Mine is a 1 piece body :) The neck does have 3 cuts: one on the heel and one near the headstock.
I prefer the sound of the SG. The attack, bite, transient is really different, and I prefer that of the SG. IMHO, the ring and sting of the SG is the sound of an SG, and those aspects are too tamed and smoothed in the PRS.
JLJ's playing is absolutely killer, as always.
I've never cared for the Gibson SG, I don't like headstock dive they are prone to and the neck/body joint just feels weird in the playing position. It's like a top heavy boat, the body is too thin to balance the weight of the neck. If they'd have just made the body a bit thicker it probably would be just fine. All that said, I think the PRS S2 is a great choice, I've played several and I like its larger, thicker body, deeper cutaways and smaller headstock which give it better balance. I like what you did with the wiring, you've made a good guitar great.
Kinda looks like a cross between an SG and a Strat. Reminds me of the Brian May guitar.
Never thought of it that way and now I can't unsee it :)
Are the current made S2 Standards that same dark SG red? I always assumed they were a brighter red, which I'm not crazy about. Looks really nice.
They don't make this color anymore which is an absolute shame!
isn't at interesting; my cherry red double cut SG (61) i gave away and ended up with the core CU 24; now i would like an S2 just like the one you showcase here; nice job;
Looks like we ended up on similar trajectories :)
Where did you buy the 58/15 LT’s please?