Anthony Marabito Bone nut does next to nothing -especially with fretted notes where it does nothing. How the nut is cut is more important. Pickups and woods make a much bigger difference tone wise.
@@armara70 I was just about to complain about the nut. The nut is cut to tall. I did not notice it at first. When you play a Fmaj7 jazz chord the nut is in the way, I do not know why they did that, but it is very annoying shame on you PRS. But besides that this guitar is a beast love the way it plays. But fix the nut thing. I noticed on my other guitars the nut is filed down on the high e string side.
The SE's are getting better all the time. USA PRS is a seriously amazing guitar. Having said that, dropping that kind of cash on a guitar would make me afraid to play it. SE is a fantastic guitar for gigging.
I used to think that about some of my Les Pauls, especially the limited editions and custom shops, much like the difference between the Custom 24 or a SE. Then when I got my Paul Reed Smith custom 24, same deal. But it as well as my LP's. they just play and sound so sweet I got over it. Yeah the beauty of both may have me be a bit more careful when playing them but love the tones so much you just can't stop playing them! QC wise and I hate to admit it having been such an LP fan since the 70's, the Custom 24 wins. But still love them all. Paul Reed Smith vs se is kind of like Gibson vs Epiphone. Just my opinion. All great guitars and both lower dollar guitars hold their own.
In my experience the difference in quality and playability of the US models overcomes any concerns I would have in gigging with the US model. The differences are pretty big to me, which is only my opinion. Better is better and worth purchasing if one can afford it. Unfortunately it is very hard to hear the differences in sound on youtube. I do think SEs are a great choice in a Korean guitar.
I agree I have two SE's one a Tremonti, one a standard 22. However I played a used American custom 22 and let me tell you it was like butter. I mean the feel on the neck and a playability was just so sweet!!! The guitar was 1500 used. Still pricey but hell if you want really want one good guitar probably that would be the one to have.
3 pieces of wood in the neck may actually make a more stable neck joint. I've had several 35+ year old japanese les paul and strat copies from the 70s and 80s with laminated maple necks, and they're all fine (I never even noticed the necks until I went to sell them and list them - I thought they were all mahogany. Tone of the guitar didn't suffer, and there were no issues). There was a point where Heritage had some figured necks in their hollowbodies that were warping, so they solved the stability problem by laminating them. The real issue in a laminated neck (multi piece) vs. a single piece neck is that the blank for a single piece neck costs more money, especially if it's mahogany vs. maple. I am a woodworker and starting guitar builder (but very long-time buyer). I could never hear the difference between a maple and mahogany neck, let alone laminations of either. But buying stock, to find a good full width and height mahogany neck blank is several times more money. The S2 guitars just aren't expensive enough to support it given that they have to make them in the US. The same is true for two or three piece backs. It's a cost issue, but you'll have mucho trouble finding a guitar where they have failed (I've never seen one in person).
I have the Korean version of that gold top. Mine even has the binding on the neck, etc... And, I agree; the custom version would not be worth the extra money for me.
Because it sounds better and you feel good knowing you have a better quality guitar. I could buy a Mexican Telecaster which is cheaper than the Professional version but having the little extra quality provides a satisfaction that you have the best and the tone is a little better too. But that's just me and my personal choice
I've been watching your channel almost as long as it's been on UA-cam. Love your no nonsense and informative videos. You are my go to on reviews and just general guitar vids.. and bro, your playing style and prowess on the fretboard is excellent!
I guess it's in the ear of the beholder...or wallet of the beholder ? Lol!!! The issue is $3,500 vs. $779. Don't get me wrong; each guitar is fantastic. But one has to ask, Am I buying a guitar to play? Or buying a guitar to impress other players? I have owned high end guitars that pushed $3,500, and lost my ass selling them and discovered that the price I paid WAS NOT WORTH the performance or features. With that said, think about resell value....and if one considers resell, why are you buying the guitar? The absolutely the best all around guitar ( tone, playability, and road worthy )I own is a homemade "Strat-instine" that I pieced together; all Fender or Fender Custom Shop parts. I bought everything (used neck and body...new electronics and hardware ) at basement bargain prices at a total cost, including refretting and setup was $480. It's freaking amazing even compared to my 1994 Ernie Ball EVH Music Man. Is my Strat-instine" worth $480 or $4,800? It's in the beholder.
The SEs are good to learn but will definitely limit you as a musician later down the road, you don't need a core though, an S2 is enough to not be limited by the instrument
I’ve got some good Bose headphones on my old deaf musician’s ears, but I thought they both did very well. I like the way you always give the Guitar credit for playing the solos!!
The Korean SE models are fantastic guitars for the money.Drop some high-end pickups on them and play them through a good amp and they will sound fantastic. The only thing that is negative on them,are the tremolo system and nut.I have a 2013 SE Tremonti Custom and that thing would go out of tune,the moment you would touch the tremolo.I don't know if they fixed this on the newer SE's,but I know from many people,who had serious tuning issues on the older SE's,because of that.I ended up,modding my SE with a Hipshot Contour trem and also Schaller mini-locking tuners and a Graphtech TUSQ nut,which solved the issue.
+greekfreak1980 I've heard that, but never experienced it. My SE is crazy solid - it doesn't go out of tune. It's been played on a bunch which helps wear the nut in though.
Oh boy is modding SE fun? I have two SE semihollows...I just picked up a PRS SE Custom Semihollow Bigsby, I finally have a trem SE I love! I am going to get a roller bridge and potentially install a coil split or phase switch. I'm keeping the pups stock because its a relatively rare guitar and they're different from most SE pickups, a bit mellower and vintage sounding, I like em well enough so I'll just cover em up. but I've ripped my hardtail semi hollow to shreds, gutted the electronics and hardware and put in P-Rails, Four knobs, three way switch and four mini switches, custom Tonepros AVTII bridge they made me with tall saddles, locking Hipshot tuners, she's my workhorse/go to and she's a great sounding guitar and plays well too now that I scraped the finish on the neck down to a matte gloss. I bought my ol gal back in 2010 for $300 and put about $400 worth of parts in it and I feel like it outperforms most guitars well above that $700 price point (what you could pay for a new SE 22 semihollow)
Andrew Levister they’re a bit hot for me but no argument here, I think the SE series is the best low to mid priced option period. I just happened to have had two se semi hollows fall into my lap over the years that really do it and the one I’ve had for years I’ve gutted and tweaked and tuned until it is damn near perfect for me and I really don’t need other electric guitars but have seen others come and go over the years
Often how good a guitar sounds comes from the Player....Eddie's first Frankenstrat was simply made out of bits and pieces, yet he took the world by storm with it. I just bought a PRS SE Charcoal....and I must say I love it. I could have gone with the American version but I simply just didn't see the need.
as usual the different between cheap and expensive guitar can be heard on the clean sound, much much different. thank you for making the video comparison ⚘
got the Indonesian SE Santana gold top, and it is a beautiful well built guitar, if only I could play, but I love to just hold it while watching UA-cam guitar demo videos
Just got the standard 24 myself. Hardly much of a player my self; but it sure is nice to try on my prs instead of some cheap guitar where the frets cut your hand.
I've been drooling over PRS for about 20 years. Each time I go to pull the trigger, I end up just picking up an SE. An SE with some locking tuners is a phenomenal instrument. Great for gigging (if you're rough on the tools like myself).
It’s always a pleasure to hear you play. I love my PRS S2 and SE. Both are beautifully crafted and dependable instruments. Some say they sound sterile compared to Fender or Gibson, but I think the magic of Fender and Gibson come from their years on the market and the great music and players they’re associated with. I believe PRS quality & beauty will win out over time.
Regarding stainless steel frets... I've heard Paul doesn't like Floyd Rose bridges either, but he have made guitars with those anyway. He also said he didn't want to make any lefty guitars, but he did. I think he likes the reactions on the Internet, and when people rave about it, he can just put out a stainless steel fret model which he has secretly prepared. I don't think he want to refret Mark Tremonti's guitars every 12 months, he'll come around to making a stainless steel model.
I listened to the comparison with my eyes closed... They are VERY similar. The bridge tones are close. I hear noticeable difference on the neck pups. The American made has slightly more articulation and sounds a bit less harsh, but man, its subtle. Both look killer.
Fresh from the oven, both line ups would do justice to your pocket. You'd get similar sound and feels to your liking (feels okay after spending N of dollars of SE/ Core). BUT, after several years of playing, nut, bridge and frets would start show differences. I own a CE24 Satin, i'd rather have an SE than that.
I realized the major difference between a good and an "bad" pickup (bad may be a harsh word but anyway) is the amount of dynamics... The wilkinsons I had sounded pretty good on valve amps, but the pots worked like an on-off switch. I had them replaced with Seymour Duncans, from which I can get a lot of sweet spots by turning the volume and tone controls...
if it helps anyone, my 2c: I own 2 US models, a core and an S2, and an SE model. I have also played many examples of each. My honest opinion is that the SEs are great guitars, potentially best in their class. But they do not hold a candle up to even a good S2 in terms of quality and feel. The american guitars are evidently born from high quality timber stock that is treated very well. They are all resonant and ring like bells unplugged. The necks, despite carrying the same profile names on the SE lines, are not the same. The US models, core and S2, have a very nice rolling and the fretwork is perfect. The rosewood on the boards is really dense, whereas the SEs have a bit of a softer feel like most guitars in their class. The finishes also feel different, it might sound strange until you pick them up side by side. The US finishes feel like very rigid, thin old nitro. The sort that shatters. The SEs just feel like regular thick poly finishes. Nothing wrong with it, but the details do add up. Top it off with the locking tuners, one piece mahogany bodies etc when you behold an example of each side by side in person it is very evident where the price difference goes. Additionally, the truss rods in the american models are exceptional. My 22 is 15 years old and the rod still turns with little effort. The SE ones seem like run of the mill 1 way generic models. Again not a bad thing but the devil is in the detail. As far as tone goes, the US pickups are definitely superior. When I move from an SE to a comparable US model, it's like taking a blanket off the speaker cabinet. I love my SE, but it is quite muddy in comparison. The american models almost have a hi fi quality to them in the top end clarity.
The problem we get when a famous name puts out a more affordable guitar is they have to do something to make the cheaper guitar sound *worse*. Usually it's the pickups. This kind of thinking does not beset the quality no-name manufacturers and so very often you can get a better guitar from them for the money. I have messed with guitars a lot and made a quite a few too, and I've found that if you get the pickups right the guitar will normally sound good. It is then just a case of playability and aesthetics, and you can do those for *much* less money than these guitars. Speaking persnally I could never buy the PRS knowing that the American model was better, epsecially if I am paying £800 for the privelage. What I want from my guitars is THE best tone I can find, not a tone that is "good for the money", or some degraded crumb kindly dropped fromt the table a famous name manuafacturer- actually I never want to hear the phrase "good for the money" ever again - and, the thing is, you can get what you want for waaaaay under £800. Boys, buy a quality guitar kit, change out any nasty bits for some made by wilkinson, learn how to set it up well, add some tonerider pickups and be *thrilled* with the sound you get. Every time you turn the amp on, you are in love again...Electric guitars are simple things - guitarists have a really self-destructive way of turning it into rocket science and then spend their entire lives chasing grails and sniffing corks. Get it right and PLAY.
You deserve a hundred likes. I figured this exact thing out a while back, and was like " I cant be the only one who gets that right!!" They have to make the budget versions worse in order to make the differences in the premium model obvious!!
@@rufus4880 Yup. Really the only outlier is digital equipment, which can genuinely be quite complex. No hobbyist is putting together a Kemper clone. But a dedicated hobbyist can make thier own guitar, amp, and even wind their own pickups. It's mostly just a rather long series of individually quite simple steps to any of these processes. And if you get enjoyment out of it, it's not even exchanging time for money. Win-win.
If the body and neck are sound, its the pickups that matter. I love Gibson and PRS pickups, but Wilkinsons are a bit hot for me. As for Alinco and Co, I buy original Fender pickups and put them in as good a body as i can get cheaply. [ Which reminds me ...but that 's for another time...]
@@diptarkabhattacharyyaENT or they have to make the guitar worse to sell it cheaper..... Alas, the Veneer, versus solid one piece. The cheaper nut, vs bone nut. The locking tuners vs the non locking tuners. The cheaper pickups vs the more expensive ones. Pretty ridiculous proposition.
I love these comparison videos. We don't have a Guitar Center anywhere near here and the music stores we have are very limited. Thank you so much for all the research you put into this.
This is very close one. I like the look of the Korean one better. Some examples I couldn't tell and some the USA model sounded tiny bit better. And that is all subjective. But that is pick-ups I am sure. The price is not worth this. Get the Korean and change the pickups / electronics and your there or beyond the US model. Darrell you are really teaching me a lot about the US models VS other countries. You inspired me to upgrade my MiM tele and the thing is beast now. Fixed rough frets, Pickups, Locking tuners, Graph tech nut and saddles and boom it smokes a USA standard. Thank you for your channel its been a lot of fun for me!
My 30 th anniversary custom 24 is extremely well made but a change of pickups and electronics made it an awesome guitar. I ditched the coil tap and added tonerider paf ACii pickups with alnico 2 magnets. Now it’s a great guitar. Craftsmanship is beautiful, and now it’s one of my favorite guitars
I totally agree but I think price is a big consideration as to why. Are they worth it? Imo yes, IF you can afford them. Owning many different brands of guitars as I posted above both LP's including CS LP's and Custom 24 they are close in quality as far as the ones I've got. Now USA LP's are a bit different certainly quality wise the PRS wins, sadly for me. And only because the LP was my first love with guitars as all my favorite players were using them back in the day. Thanks again for all your great videos. Love 'em and appreciate the time you put into them!
3 Card Monty this is so true. I had never played one until about a month ago when I went to the guitar center in Tampa Florida. They have everything under the sun. I was a Gibson fanboy and always thought I needed to upgrade my epiphone to the “real deal”. Then I played the PRS😳 I know own a 2011 PRS Temonti SE that I got on eBay for $299 used in great condition. It plays way better that the $2000 les Paul’s I played recently at guitar center. And way lighter and better finish. I’ve seen the light!!!
Found the American much more warmer in tone than the SE. SE heard some fret buzzing but that could be an intonation and action adjustment issue than can be fixed. It did sound hotter/brighter, more on the high end for me than the American Custom but not by much. Its a good alternative to the more expensive model for sure. May consider it being that I can't afford to spend 2k or 3k on any guitar. Nice comparison video! Thanks!
I've always said that whatever works for you, that fits your hands, the tone you like and whatever is comfortable for you. (It's yours) The great thing about music is that you don't necessarily have to have the (Most) expensive gears. For example. the PRS from Korea you like the most than the American-custom and the other way around, it's totally fine. As long as you can play the part of what your role is in a band. What is necessary is what you are comfortable with. In short *If you like it's really yours* Latly, I've only played clean without any effect since my pedals are in my home-town and right now I'm in Denmark. I'vent used my pedals since summer and I've realized that most of the tones you are looking for are in your hand and what you are capable of. As a dreamer of becoming a musician. As I found out, it's through practice + time. Effects isn't necessary, effects can come at last and what is necessary is, practice and understanding/mastering the role and the theory behind it. Be opened-minded in any genres. (No death metal) *Ahem* Music is amazing. And not the least grow as a musician.
I love both. I have an SE and my main issue is the neck is too thin for me. I had a US model in 1985 but had to sell it after my stroke. I'm hoping to replace it with a 595 someday. Love the video.
Just an amazing and professional comparison. I have a PRS SE Korean on the way right now - even the same color scheme - and this put any doubts to rest. It is the most I've ever spent on a guitar, I've always tweaked low-rent models to save money, and even this one is a discounted demo. For a bottom-feeder like me, it is the Holy Grail. I think we all need to reward ourselves now and again, for working hard and - in my case - just surviving this far. Thank you, Darrell. Most excellant!
Last year I did the PRS factory tour in their USA factory in MD. Pretty fascinating and nice to see American workers on the job. Really a top tier guitar operation. Unfortunately that quality level costs $$$ so when it came time to buy I went for the SE. I agree with Darrell the SE quality and playability is great, the Pickups are definitely darker, and the next shape is a bit chunkier. The SE was a great step up guitar from entry level Ibanez. Maybe in a few years (as my chops improve) I will make the jump to the made in USA models...
On the guitars I've tried, the main difference is definitely the pickups and electronics. SE guitars generally play very well indeed, but they sometimes have shockingly bad pickups. I don't really understand why, even Harley Bentons have decent sounding pickups. I have a PRS SE baritone from a few years back, and it sounded horrendous when I bought it. Swapped the pickups for some second hand Lace Dissonant Aggressors and now it's just the best baritone ever!
These guitars are awesome, both sound great! I have borrowed a few over the years, played out with them because I was thinking of buying one and just didn't fall in love with any of them. I know a lot of people swear by these, but I always go back to strat style guitars, like the one you recently built. This video is making me think though, maybe I will give one of these a shot again.
Best bang for buck is a used CE24 or 22. Old ones are all American made and can be bought for around a grand. I have suhr humbuckers in mine and they rule.
JTroskaTV I was considering thornbuckers, but I went with ssh (not plus) and ssv. I'm really happy with them. I like a little bit more output, so those were a good choice over the thorns for me. You really can't go wrong with suhr electronics at all.
That is the absolute TRUTH!. IT is probably the best overall PRS guitar. I currently own a 513 w/ Brazilian rosewood neck, and a 30th anniversary Custom 24. I still say my first CE bolts were the best sounding and most versatile of all. It's the Dragon 1 and 2 pickups with the bolt neck construction AMAZING guitars. If you can find one for $1000, and it's original, BUY IT!!!!
Could not agree more in so many ways. The PRS SE Custom, although the 22, is very likely to be my next investment. I would love the American, it appeals to my appreciation of solid materials coupled with caring craftsmanship, but the price makes my eyes water. Glad you did this test, it does answer questions as to whether the [coff,coff] cheaper version was a good solid alternative.
Very informative video, I’ve dreamed of a USA PRS for a number of years and considered the cheaper alternative for a while too. Think I’ll be purchasing the Korean build 👍🤘
Judging by your playing, it looks like the USA model gave you less of a fight. Note runs and chord changes looked easier and smoother when compared to the SE. That being said, I love my SE Custom 24, it's my go to guitar when not thinking and just playing. Fun guitar. Great video!
I have 4 PRS SE of different models, and I truly love all of them. I thank you very much for this very good comparative analysis of the American and the Korean. I can see that, while the American is better in some construction refinements, the Korean is better for the possibility of using the single coil mode - something I like very, very much. I also have an Indonesian SE Standard 24 that has the same possibility with an entirely Mahogany body, without the Maple layer above it. It sounds differently from the Korean, and I also truly love it. I think that the refinements of the American doesn't worth the enormous difference in price, mostly due to absence of the single coil mode ( if I understood it correctly ). Once again many thanks for your precise analysis, it was highly enlightenening. I would like to add that, in my experience with the SE Custom 24 and the SE Standard 24, the single coil mode on the latter is something truly amazing. All the best ! P. S.: to me, Paul Reed Smith is a true genius.
It’s not really surprising the American made guitar with high end components sounds better, but not $2000 better. Great comparison video. I already knew I loved my SE but now I’m even more convinced I made the right choice.
OK, I seriously loaded this video up and then thought "do you want to do this, Brad?" and waited a while before saying "Yes. Darrell won't let you down. He's the best." You see, I just bought my first PRS and it's a Tremonti-edition PRS SE. It is simply fantastic, and a ton of fun to play and hear (and look at). I couldn't be happier. The resonance, styling, and trem are that of more expensive guitar lines. Still I wondered about comparisons with the American model. When you started comparing these, I did the blind test thing and turned around to listen to both without knowing which was playing. With the exception of the single coil setting, I couldn't tell a difference, and I usually can with your comparisons. I think they're closer than other brands low-end/high-end models are to each other. Your notes about a complexity level are a good way to say what you're hearing, but it doesn't translate in video as much as in person. The work of art statement is true as well, and what PRS are also known for. Nice job with this one!
Same here I just got the limited edition "Stealth Quilt" SE Custom 24. Ebony fretboard, full satin finish (the neck feels amazing), maple neck with brings some snap and brightness to the sound (the current SE"s have mahogany necks which are warmer). Shoved DiMarzio Illuminators in there and man... For 1100€ I doubt there's any guitar that comes close to the sound and the quality.
I totally agree! The 85/15 "s" in the 2018 SEs have surprised me beyond any expectations!!!! They are pretty hot, with a beefy low end, but remain clear and with a good definition and dynamic!!!!!
I just bought a ce-24,. I'm selling it, and my g&l custom legacy and buying the PRS McCarty 594. A comparison between the 594 and Les Paul would be a cool video.
Cool video for sure. What year is the SE though? in 2017 they got they got Paul Reed Smith on the headstock and most models got new pickups. Which are suppose to be even closer to the USA version. Also I believe the nuts are made out of quite different material. The USA ones are suppose to have a lot of brass powder in them. Can't go wrong with either one, both are fantastic guitars.
I just bought a 2017 "Floyd" Custom 24 SE one two weeks ago at Guitar Center for around $900. It's fantastic. I have an American made Ernie Ball Music Man, and I honestly think the SE is a much better made and better sounding guitar. The tuning rods (or w/e they're called) on it are really good too; I had a 3 hour band practice on Saturday and didn't need to tune it.
I love your vids Darrell. The content is excellent without bias and to the point. The pace and flow of the vids is spot on, no superfluous meaningless fluff. You get to the point and generally have something good to say even on the cheapest guitars. And your playing is exceptional. Editing is wonderful too. Saturday is binge day for me on your channel. I have several nice Fender and Gibson guitars, Les Pauls, Strats, Teles, but I still suck at playing (a couple beers temper the frustration) but still no record offers yet. It's nice to see what my guitars can really do in the right hands. Keep up the great work that you do, it helps in so many ways. I travel Canada on a regular basis and I have customers up in your neck of the woods. Hope to meet you some day. The pleasure would be all mine. Cheers!
Darrel love this video.have been wondering about these prs guitars never played one due to the price of the American ones.hate to fall in love with something that I can't afford without the wife cutting something off lol.but after this video I might try out the other one.thanks to this video.love what you do thank you very much!
Darrell, nice review! I like the way you go into the detail of the guitars. The S. Korean SE you're playing must be an older model cause the 2018's have CUSTOM on the Truss Rod Cover not PRS. They run $830 most places in the States. I personally like the sound of the SE over the American. To me the American sounds more subdued and has more over tones where the SE is more articulate, I can hear each and every note. Thanks again for another Great Video Comparison, you do a Fantastic Job!! Keep up the Good Work!
Darrell, I totally agree with what you said at around 1:00 about the overall design of the guitar! I see so many guitars that are derivatives of a les paul or a strat, and while they have their own unique qualities and features, PRS guitars just seem like their own amazing guitar brand because of their own unique qualities and models, maybe besides the 245. 🎸🎸🎸 Rock on!!!
I think as far as sound and tone goes, there is a definite point of diminishing returns. In my mind, what you're mostly paying for with high-end guitars is the attention to detail in the craftsmanship, not necessarily just better sound. I think a good video that demonstrated this was your review of the Harley Benton 335-style guitar. It sounded just fine, but the detail when it comes to finishing and woodwork is where you clearly see where the extra money for a high-end instrument goes.
I love the stuff you do with the tremolo and having it set to bend a certain pitch. After seeing your demonstration on how to set up a floating trem and seeing you play it on a prs I’m for sure doing it to my prs Santana se
Finally a review worth listening to! You really did both guitar justice, especially PRS SE Cuustom 24 which i'm gonna buy probably. This or Gibson Les Paul Studio Faded... It's hard to decide, both i can get good deal on, especially on PRS SE which i can get for 500 eur.
SE Standards are $499, in my book that is budget price for a professional instrument. Sure I would rather have a CE or a Custom but those are $2G and $3500 respectively. Squire, Epiphone or an SE Standard. Hands Down Paul Reed Smith!
+Marco Lalama That is a great question! Two of the most amazing designed instruments ever! I'll add it to my "to do" list ☺ Off the top of my head: Design goes to MM, beauty goes to PRS, and as for tone, I'll have to do a comparison 👍
I am so happy you made this video! I was thinking of asking you if you planned on doing a video on these two PRS’s! I have a 2017 SE Custom 24 and love it! And with the way you played them both (like you always do) I know that made a good choice. I felt that the Korean SE models to be just as well made as the Mexican Fenders and at a price to where one could do upgrades an get it to be closer to its American cousin without breaking the bank. Thanks again for another great video!!
With upgrades, my SE semi hollow is now a great sounding and playing guitar. I added custom adjustable bridge from John Mann that added much better sustain and no more buzz after having 2 stock ones, some SD pups and locking tuners. It has a good foundation to build on.
Always enjoy your videos! I liked your comparison, although I think it should be pointed out that new SEs have different pickups than the one you tested. The new SE's still have imported pickups, but most of them are the new 'S" version of the USA 85/15 pickups, and are, IMO, an improvement over the ones tested here. Also, I've owned 5 SEs (still have a couple) as well as Core and S2 USA models, and the biggest complaint I have with the SE line is the plastic nut. On some SE's, they work great. On others, they stick and make the guitar nearly impossible to keep in tune. Sometimes opening the slots a bit helps, but I usually suggest that an SE model be upgraded with either a PRS USA nut, or the Graph-Tech TUSQ equivalent. Both are about $15, if you can replace it yourself. The Graph-Tech model is a better fit (Same thickness front-to-back as the SE plastic nut...the USA nut is thinner by about .02"), but I think the PRS USA nut works a little better. You made both sound fantastic, BTW!
Great PRS comparison Darrell I bought a 2017 Standard with split coil and because of the versatility of combining Paul and strat like tones in one guitar and for the $$ it's an amazing guitar..over all I'm happy to have PRS again loved this keep it up your awsome!!
US pickups sound smoother. Korean ones are harsh. Even my wife heard the difference when I got my US model after I first had an SE. She called it 'sweeter'. I ripped out everything but the tuners on my SE, it's incredible now. The SEs do play amazing, and US electronics and John Mann trem let it truly sound great. It's competing hard with my Les Paul here. Your gold top looks great!
Francesco M My ZM came with 10's. But that's an artists signature guitar so perhaps that's why. I mean I'm pretty certain it came with 10's. I of course have it set with that now. You mentioned SE Custom so maybe you mean only for the custom as opposed to all PRS SE's.
Ronnie Williams according to PRS, all SE come with 9s except some artist models. I've always thought stock string gauge is irrelevant though since any new guitar should get new strings and a setup.
Darrell Braun Guitar according to Paul SE stands for "Student Edition", maybe light strings are more easy to play for a "beginner" guy. I own a Prs SE and I love it, absolutely not an entry level instrument, a respectable guitar under 1000€ with a lot to offer, professional players included
sillyak yes ahahah, I switched with 11's and now I have 10's gauge... (Dear lutist Ciccio) the scale is quite short and the guitar still remains smooth for me
+RC32 Spectacular guitars! The only knock against them is the price - well that and some feel they don't have the "soul" of a LP or Strat. But that can only come with history ☺
RC32, Sometimes some stores like Guitar Center have previous year models they want to clear from they stock...I got an SE Mark Tremonti for 520 dollars...awesome guitar...
Frederico Epstein is that so? I'll have to check that out! Although I don't think there are any Guitar Centers in San Antonio, plus that fact that I have only like 5 bucks lol
RC32, yes...they have stores in San Antonio... one address for you: 7325 San Pedro Ave Suite 105, San Antonio, TX 78216. If you don’t find, when you come to Houston they have many Guitar Centers...I know the Sugar Land store has one or two old SEs in clearance. All the best Buddy!
Darrell, I have the same exact same gold top but with the piezo and the thing that keeps me coming back is the feel of the neck. I have a few custom ordered warmoth necks on my Strats and they still don't give me that feeling. Its way to esoteric to describe which is why you didn't even try but im curious.....if your eyes were closed could you tell the two necks apart? is the shape similar? are they even close to the same? The one downside of having a PRS custom is that I'm scared to take it out of the house and every time I bring one of my backups....well...its just not the same. Its like going to a steak house and ordering a Kobe steak appetizer and then having a prime steak for dinner.....now the prime steak tastes like a hamburger after the Kobe app :)
+Bret Schwartz Hi! The wide/thin profile of the SE is much thinner than the pattern thin profile of the goldtop, so they are very easy to tell apart. I agree on the neck profile, it is incredibly comfortable.
On this video, I found indeed that the American pickups had a wider range of frequencies. However, the SE clearly had more bass end and sounded less thin. I have experienced something similar comparing an American custom 22 and the custom 22 SE semi hollow. The SE semi-hollow one at $700 sounded better than the American custom 22 at $1900. Don’t know why. But that’s my experience. Their semi hollow really sound better overall, regardless which model you consider (single cut, double cut, hollow body II). Get one! ;-)
It took me twenty years to finally get an American made PRS. I’ve owned ten prs SE’s and they’re very awesome guitars. The Holcomb se is my favorite. I will say the second I played a core model the differences were crazy noticeable. There was a resonance that was amazing to feel and hear versus the basically flat CNC cut SE. the locking tuners on the prs guitars are amazing. I’ve never had them come out of tune or strip out. The pickups are really something too. Mainly the 85/15 set. Now the Korean SE’s 85/15 pickups are made to Paul’s exact specs but they don’t sound as rich and full for some reason although they are nice pickups. I’m just throwing this out there but you can get a used in perfect condition prs CE24 for the same price as a new SE. the CE is a bolt in/on neck so it has its own unique tone compared to the set neck one. I actually preferred the snappy sound of the CE to the core but those beautiful carves and tops on a core sure are something. I have a 2016 CE24 satin black out and I’ll be buried with that guitar. It’s that “one” guitar you find that you make a connection with that just melds with you. The complete feel of my CE feels more comfortable than the SE. plus my coil taped American 85/15’s sounds so close to my Strat that’s can really use that one guitar for everything. I’ll still buy SE’s though because theyre an amazing value and mods go a long way on them. But my god when you do play an American made one the feel is insanely noticeable
I have a 2004 custom 22 and the SE 7 custom 24. Sure two very different guitars but everything about the USA PRS is greater. And this may sound weird but every time i open the hardcase i can smell the mahogany! No joke! and i love it.
You are the best. Btw I have a question...I've been playing guitar for 3 years, but I still don't understand why these PRS are so expensive.. I have a ESP LTD EC-1000 Deluxe (Red)..Do you think it's a great guitar in terms of sound ?
+DenisV Hi! Most instruments (of any price - range) can be made to sound great with a high quality amp. Playability and aesthetics are a different matter. So, in the end, if your guitar plays good, and you like how it looks, then it is good 😀
The core is just so expensive bc it's more of this tradituonal, handmade spirit that runs through your viens while playing it It is such a great instrument with this accuracy on the fretboard and just the all over design
It's PRS time!!
Long overdue on my channel :)
Guitar Links:
PRS SE: imp.i114863.net/3Q92k
PRS USA: imp.i114863.net/ezrgQ
Darrell Braun Guitar hey just wanted to say you're amazing and your videos keep me motivated to keep playing and not give up. Thank you so much!
+TheMinersMinors Thanks man! That is really great to hear - keep it up 👍
Good video Darrell!
+Frederico Epstein Thanks so much!
+overclockeador Anytime! ☺
And the winner is the Amp.
Winner Is always the player
The amp wins! 😆
Sure! Kkkkkk😆
😂😂😂😂
This is the best comment in this video LOL
thought the american made was slightly better, better tone. but the SE is a worthy guitar to own.
@@bigdaddyofficial812 hah 😂😂😂
If you heard them or played them yourself the difference would be more obvious than listening to a recording. But is the SE junk? Of course not.
@@2204JCM You can tweak the SE by things like adding a bone nut.
Anthony Marabito Bone nut does next to nothing -especially with fretted notes where it does nothing. How the nut is cut is more important. Pickups and woods make a much bigger difference tone wise.
@@armara70 I was just about to complain about the nut. The nut is cut to tall. I did not notice it at first. When you play a Fmaj7 jazz chord the nut is in the way, I do not know why they did that, but it is very annoying shame on you PRS. But besides that this guitar is a beast love the way it plays. But fix the nut thing. I noticed on my other guitars the nut is filed down on the high e string side.
The SE's are getting better all the time.
USA PRS is a seriously amazing guitar.
Having said that, dropping that kind of cash on a guitar would make me afraid to play it. SE is a fantastic guitar for gigging.
I used to think that about some of my Les Pauls, especially the limited editions and custom shops, much like the difference between the Custom 24 or a SE. Then when I got my Paul Reed Smith custom 24, same deal. But it as well as my LP's. they just play and sound so sweet I got over it. Yeah the beauty of both may have me be a bit more careful when playing them but love the tones so much you just can't stop playing them! QC wise and I hate to admit it having been such an LP fan since the 70's, the Custom 24 wins. But still love them all. Paul Reed Smith vs se is kind of like Gibson vs Epiphone. Just my opinion. All great guitars and both lower dollar guitars hold their own.
In my experience the difference in quality and playability of the US models overcomes any concerns I would have in gigging with the US model. The differences are pretty big to me, which is only my opinion. Better is better and worth purchasing if one can afford it. Unfortunately it is very hard to hear the differences in sound on youtube. I do think SEs are a great choice in a Korean guitar.
I only Can confirm... Monsters for gigs. I have a limited édition SE 2018 just Amazing piece of Gear for the price
can always buy used!
I agree I have two SE's one a Tremonti, one a standard 22. However I played a used American custom 22 and let me tell you it was like butter. I mean the feel on the neck and a playability was just so sweet!!! The guitar was 1500 used. Still pricey but hell if you want really want one good guitar probably that would be the one to have.
I’m impressed by the SE as far as tone and versatility with the coil tap! This would probably be a good option to counter my usual tele playing!
Another excellent comparison video. Everything about this channel is high quality.
+Andrew White Thanks! I really appreciate the kind words ☺
I want to congratulate you on the sound quality of your videos. Micing an amp or DI to an amp sim?
Andrew White what do you think about that S2 line with even 3 pieces of wood in the neck?
3 pieces of wood in the neck may actually make a more stable neck joint. I've had several 35+ year old japanese les paul and strat copies from the 70s and 80s with laminated maple necks, and they're all fine (I never even noticed the necks until I went to sell them and list them - I thought they were all mahogany. Tone of the guitar didn't suffer, and there were no issues).
There was a point where Heritage had some figured necks in their hollowbodies that were warping, so they solved the stability problem by laminating them. The real issue in a laminated neck (multi piece) vs. a single piece neck is that the blank for a single piece neck costs more money, especially if it's mahogany vs. maple.
I am a woodworker and starting guitar builder (but very long-time buyer). I could never hear the difference between a maple and mahogany neck, let alone laminations of either. But buying stock, to find a good full width and height mahogany neck blank is several times more money. The S2 guitars just aren't expensive enough to support it given that they have to make them in the US.
The same is true for two or three piece backs. It's a cost issue, but you'll have mucho trouble finding a guitar where they have failed (I've never seen one in person).
Even the comments 🤮
The American made one has a richer and more refined sound. Is it really worth $3K more than the SE? Not to me.
sickb2200 not to me neither. For $800 the SE trumps.
I have the Korean version of that gold top. Mine even has the binding on the neck, etc... And, I agree; the custom version would not be worth the extra money for me.
If you can, save money twice as long and get the American which seems to ring out more and of course is built better.
Glenn Bucc but why? Just play a good guitar at 1/3 the price
Because it sounds better and you feel good knowing you have a better quality guitar. I could buy a Mexican Telecaster which is cheaper than the Professional version but having the little extra quality provides a satisfaction that you have the best and the tone is a little better too. But that's just me and my personal choice
They both look and sound great. I’m slowly starting to like the look of PRS. :) great vid!
My SE24 plays terrific for the 700.00 paid
Yep, it is also easier to put a scratch and dent into it with not a big concern.
I've been watching your channel almost as long as it's been on UA-cam. Love your no nonsense and informative videos. You are my go to on reviews and just general guitar vids.. and bro, your playing style and prowess on the fretboard is excellent!
Same here bro, this guy is awesome and full of positive though❤❤
ROBERT YOUNG wow what a brown nose. There’s no freebies mate !! 😂🤣
@@edwindude9893 jealous much?
ROBERT YOUNG why would anyone be jealous of a guy sucking up to a UA-camr ?
@@edwindude9893 Post your own tubes and let's decide about you. Um yeah, that will never happen will it "Dude"? Have you got the chops?
I guess it's in the ear of the beholder...or wallet of the beholder ? Lol!!! The issue is $3,500 vs. $779. Don't get me wrong; each guitar is fantastic. But one has to ask, Am I buying a guitar to play? Or buying a guitar to impress other players? I have owned high end guitars that pushed $3,500, and lost my ass selling them and discovered that the price I paid WAS NOT WORTH the performance or features. With that said, think about resell value....and if one considers resell, why are you buying the guitar? The absolutely the best all around guitar ( tone, playability, and road worthy )I own is a homemade "Strat-instine" that I pieced together; all Fender or Fender Custom Shop parts. I bought everything (used neck and body...new electronics and hardware ) at basement bargain prices at a total cost, including refretting and setup was $480. It's freaking amazing even compared to my 1994 Ernie Ball EVH Music Man. Is my Strat-instine" worth $480 or $4,800? It's in the beholder.
+Tim Allen Good points!
Do not buy new guitars unless they are heavily discounted. You will always lose.
@@kckennedy55 so true. Year end sale coming soon.
The SEs are good to learn but will definitely limit you as a musician later down the road, you don't need a core though, an S2 is enough to not be limited by the instrument
@@ericcotter1984 How do you think owning an SE will limit you down the road?
I’ve got some good Bose headphones on my old deaf musician’s ears, but I thought they both did very well. I like the way you always give the Guitar credit for playing the solos!!
+MeArkitek 😀👍
The Korean SE models are fantastic guitars for the money.Drop some high-end pickups on them and play them through a good amp and they will sound fantastic.
The only thing that is negative on them,are the tremolo system and nut.I have a 2013 SE Tremonti Custom and that thing would go out of tune,the moment you would touch the tremolo.I don't know if they fixed this on the newer SE's,but I know from many people,who had serious tuning issues on the older SE's,because of that.I ended up,modding my SE with a Hipshot Contour trem and also Schaller mini-locking tuners and a Graphtech TUSQ nut,which solved the issue.
greekfreak1980
I have one custom 24 se Paul allender . And I fix tuning Just with Gotoh Sgm 381 Locking tuners.
+greekfreak1980 I've heard that, but never experienced it.
My SE is crazy solid - it doesn't go out of tune.
It's been played on a bunch which helps wear the nut in though.
Oh boy is modding SE fun? I have two SE semihollows...I just picked up a PRS SE Custom Semihollow Bigsby, I finally have a trem SE I love! I am going to get a roller bridge and potentially install a coil split or phase switch. I'm keeping the pups stock because its a relatively rare guitar and they're different from most SE pickups, a bit mellower and vintage sounding, I like em well enough so I'll just cover em up. but I've ripped my hardtail semi hollow to shreds, gutted the electronics and hardware and put in P-Rails, Four knobs, three way switch and four mini switches, custom Tonepros AVTII bridge they made me with tall saddles, locking Hipshot tuners, she's my workhorse/go to and she's a great sounding guitar and plays well too now that I scraped the finish on the neck down to a matte gloss. I bought my ol gal back in 2010 for $300 and put about $400 worth of parts in it and I feel like it outperforms most guitars well above that $700 price point (what you could pay for a new SE 22 semihollow)
Andrew Levister they’re a bit hot for me but no argument here, I think the SE series is the best low to mid priced option period. I just happened to have had two se semi hollows fall into my lap over the years that really do it and the one I’ve had for years I’ve gutted and tweaked and tuned until it is damn near perfect for me and I really don’t need other electric guitars but have seen others come and go over the years
Is the trem the problem or is it the nut?
Often how good a guitar sounds comes from the Player....Eddie's first Frankenstrat was simply made out of bits and pieces, yet he took the world by storm with it. I just bought a PRS SE Charcoal....and I must say I love it. I could have gone with the American version but I simply just didn't see the need.
as usual the different between cheap and expensive guitar can be heard on the clean sound, much much different. thank you for making the video comparison ⚘
+GuitarUniverse10 ☺👍
got the Indonesian SE Santana gold top, and it is a beautiful well built guitar, if only I could play, but I love to just hold it while watching UA-cam guitar demo videos
Just got the standard 24 myself.
Hardly much of a player my self; but it sure is nice to try on my prs instead of some cheap guitar where the frets cut your hand.
I've been drooling over PRS for about 20 years. Each time I go to pull the trigger, I end up just picking up an SE. An SE with some locking tuners is a phenomenal instrument. Great for gigging (if you're rough on the tools like myself).
+Beau Cardwell Absolutely!
It’s always a pleasure to hear you play. I love my PRS S2 and SE. Both are beautifully crafted and dependable instruments. Some say they sound sterile compared to Fender or Gibson, but I think the magic of Fender and Gibson come from their years on the market and the great music and players they’re associated with. I believe PRS quality & beauty will win out over time.
+Bella Chi Thanks so much!
Good points ☺
Regarding stainless steel frets... I've heard Paul doesn't like Floyd Rose bridges either, but he have made guitars with those anyway. He also said he didn't want to make any lefty guitars, but he did. I think he likes the reactions on the Internet, and when people rave about it, he can just put out a stainless steel fret model which he has secretly prepared. I don't think he want to refret Mark Tremonti's guitars every 12 months, he'll come around to making a stainless steel model.
I listened to the comparison with my eyes closed... They are VERY similar. The bridge tones are close. I hear noticeable difference on the neck pups. The American made has slightly more articulation and sounds a bit less harsh, but man, its subtle. Both look killer.
SkyScraper Guitars can always slap some American made PRS pups in there though.
Fresh from the oven, both line ups would do justice to your pocket. You'd get similar sound and feels to your liking (feels okay after spending N of dollars of SE/ Core). BUT, after several years of playing, nut, bridge and frets would start show differences. I own a CE24 Satin, i'd rather have an SE than that.
Eh but the locking tuners is a plus side of American made btw.
I realized the major difference between a good and an "bad" pickup (bad may be a harsh word but anyway) is the amount of dynamics... The wilkinsons I had sounded pretty good on valve amps, but the pots worked like an on-off switch. I had them replaced with Seymour Duncans, from which I can get a lot of sweet spots by turning the volume and tone controls...
Cahyo Amiseso why would you prefer an SE over your CE? I’d think the CE would be close to the Core... better quality frets and pups, especially.
I've played a Paul Reed Smith and they are nice as hell!!! It felt very sturdy, and solid. The tone it gave was a nice punchy mid tone
I think the American had more "Color" in the sound. Was it $2000.00 worth of difference? No.
Thanks for this! I was looking at PRS SE as a potential guitar and this seems like it would take me a long way with it's sound and quality.
Do you play metal or rock?
if it helps anyone, my 2c:
I own 2 US models, a core and an S2, and an SE model. I have also played many examples of each.
My honest opinion is that the SEs are great guitars, potentially best in their class. But they do not hold a candle up to even a good S2 in terms of quality and feel. The american guitars are evidently born from high quality timber stock that is treated very well. They are all resonant and ring like bells unplugged. The necks, despite carrying the same profile names on the SE lines, are not the same. The US models, core and S2, have a very nice rolling and the fretwork is perfect. The rosewood on the boards is really dense, whereas the SEs have a bit of a softer feel like most guitars in their class. The finishes also feel different, it might sound strange until you pick them up side by side. The US finishes feel like very rigid, thin old nitro. The sort that shatters. The SEs just feel like regular thick poly finishes. Nothing wrong with it, but the details do add up. Top it off with the locking tuners, one piece mahogany bodies etc when you behold an example of each side by side in person it is very evident where the price difference goes. Additionally, the truss rods in the american models are exceptional. My 22 is 15 years old and the rod still turns with little effort. The SE ones seem like run of the mill 1 way generic models. Again not a bad thing but the devil is in the detail.
As far as tone goes, the US pickups are definitely superior. When I move from an SE to a comparable US model, it's like taking a blanket off the speaker cabinet. I love my SE, but it is quite muddy in comparison. The american models almost have a hi fi quality to them in the top end clarity.
The problem we get when a famous name puts out a more affordable guitar is they have to do something to make the cheaper guitar sound *worse*. Usually it's the pickups. This kind of thinking does not beset the quality no-name manufacturers and so very often you can get a better guitar from them for the money. I have messed with guitars a lot and made a quite a few too, and I've found that if you get the pickups right the guitar will normally sound good. It is then just a case of playability and aesthetics, and you can do those for *much* less money than these guitars. Speaking persnally I could never buy the PRS knowing that the American model was better, epsecially if I am paying £800 for the privelage. What I want from my guitars is THE best tone I can find, not a tone that is "good for the money", or some degraded crumb kindly dropped fromt the table a famous name manuafacturer- actually I never want to hear the phrase "good for the money" ever again - and, the thing is, you can get what you want for waaaaay under £800. Boys, buy a quality guitar kit, change out any nasty bits for some made by wilkinson, learn how to set it up well, add some tonerider pickups and be *thrilled* with the sound you get. Every time you turn the amp on, you are in love again...Electric guitars are simple things - guitarists have a really self-destructive way of turning it into rocket science and then spend their entire lives chasing grails and sniffing corks. Get it right and PLAY.
You deserve a hundred likes. I figured this exact thing out a while back, and was like " I cant be the only one who gets that right!!" They have to make the budget versions worse in order to make the differences in the premium model obvious!!
Honestly, this sums up guitar gear...
@@rufus4880 Yup. Really the only outlier is digital equipment, which can genuinely be quite complex. No hobbyist is putting together a Kemper clone. But a dedicated hobbyist can make thier own guitar, amp, and even wind their own pickups. It's mostly just a rather long series of individually quite simple steps to any of these processes.
And if you get enjoyment out of it, it's not even exchanging time for money. Win-win.
If the body and neck are sound, its the pickups that matter. I love Gibson and PRS pickups, but Wilkinsons are a bit hot for me. As for Alinco and Co, I buy original Fender pickups and put them in as good a body as i can get cheaply. [ Which reminds me ...but that 's for another time...]
@@diptarkabhattacharyyaENT or they have to make the guitar worse to sell it cheaper.....
Alas, the Veneer, versus solid one piece. The cheaper nut, vs bone nut. The locking tuners vs the non locking tuners. The cheaper pickups vs the more expensive ones.
Pretty ridiculous proposition.
I love these comparison videos. We don't have a Guitar Center anywhere near here and the music stores we have are very limited. Thank you so much for all the research you put into this.
I'm glad to help!
This is very close one. I like the look of the Korean one better. Some examples I couldn't tell and some the USA model sounded tiny bit better. And that is all subjective. But that is pick-ups I am sure. The price is not worth this. Get the Korean and change the pickups / electronics and your there or beyond the US model. Darrell you are really teaching me a lot about the US models VS other countries. You inspired me to upgrade my MiM tele and the thing is beast now. Fixed rough frets, Pickups, Locking tuners, Graph tech nut and saddles and boom it smokes a USA standard. Thank you for your channel its been a lot of fun for me!
My 30 th anniversary custom 24 is extremely well made but a change of pickups and electronics made it an awesome guitar. I ditched the coil tap and added tonerider paf ACii pickups with alnico 2 magnets. Now it’s a great guitar. Craftsmanship is beautiful, and now it’s one of my favorite guitars
I don't know why there are not more PRS guitars in my local guitar store - I think their quality are head & shoulders above Fender or Gibson.
+3 Card Monty Yeah, they are putting some of the highest quality guitars on the planet right now - they should be everywhere ☺
I was just at my long and mcquade in Winnipeg the other day.. not one PRS.. I would like to at least try one!
I totally agree but I think price is a big consideration as to why. Are they worth it? Imo yes, IF you can afford them. Owning many different brands of guitars as I posted above both LP's including CS LP's and Custom 24 they are close in quality as far as the ones I've got. Now USA LP's are a bit different certainly quality wise the PRS wins, sadly for me. And only because the LP was my first love with guitars as all my favorite players were using them back in the day. Thanks again for all your great videos. Love 'em and appreciate the time you put into them!
3 Card Monty this is so true. I had never played one until about a month ago when I went to the guitar center in Tampa Florida. They have everything under the sun. I was a Gibson fanboy and always thought I needed to upgrade my epiphone to the “real deal”. Then I played the PRS😳
I know own a 2011 PRS Temonti SE that I got on eBay for $299 used in great condition. It plays way better that the $2000 les Paul’s I played recently at guitar center. And way lighter and better finish.
I’ve seen the light!!!
Great comparison video! The difference was much lesss than I would have thought.
Found the American much more warmer in tone than the SE. SE heard some fret buzzing but that could be an intonation and action adjustment issue than can be fixed. It did sound hotter/brighter, more on the high end for me than the American Custom but not by much. Its a good alternative to the more expensive model for sure. May consider it being that I can't afford to spend 2k or 3k on any guitar. Nice comparison video! Thanks!
I've always said that whatever works for you, that fits your hands, the tone you like and whatever is comfortable for you. (It's yours) The great thing about music is that you don't necessarily have to have the (Most) expensive gears.
For example. the PRS from Korea you like the most than the American-custom and the other way around, it's totally fine. As long as you can play the part of what your role is in a band.
What is necessary is what you are comfortable with.
In short
*If you like it's really yours*
Latly, I've only played clean without any effect since my pedals are in my home-town and right now I'm in Denmark. I'vent used my pedals since summer and I've realized that most of the tones you are looking for are in your hand and what you are capable of.
As a dreamer of becoming a musician.
As I found out, it's through practice + time. Effects isn't necessary, effects can come at last and what is necessary is, practice and understanding/mastering the role and the theory behind it.
Be opened-minded in any genres. (No death metal) *Ahem*
Music is amazing.
And not the least grow as a musician.
I love both. I have an SE and my main issue is the neck is too thin for me. I had a US model in 1985 but had to sell it after my stroke. I'm hoping to replace it with a 595 someday. Love the video.
+Jonathan Leavitt Thanks!
Yeah the wide/thin profile is very slim.
The pattern thin profile on the gold top is much more comfortable. ☺
This is the video I've been waiting all my life for you to make
+Navnith Grewal Hi!
It's been on my back burner for a looong time! I'm glad to finally put it together 😀
Just an amazing and professional comparison. I have a PRS SE Korean on the way right now - even the same color scheme - and this put any doubts to rest. It is the most I've ever spent on a guitar, I've always tweaked low-rent models to save money, and even this one is a discounted demo. For a bottom-feeder like me, it is the Holy Grail. I think we all need to reward ourselves now and again, for working hard and - in my case - just surviving this far. Thank you, Darrell. Most excellant!
Congratulations on the new guitar Dan!!
I'm sure you will love it 👍
Thanks Darrell, and thanks for the great videos!
I bought a Korean made PRS Zack Meyers, I love this axe, it has become my main axe, in front of my Gibson Les Paul Studio.
I love how you use the pinch harmonics in your solos !
Last year I did the PRS factory tour in their USA factory in MD. Pretty fascinating and nice to see American workers on the job. Really a top tier guitar operation. Unfortunately that quality level costs $$$ so when it came time to buy I went for the SE. I agree with Darrell the SE quality and playability is great, the Pickups are definitely darker, and the next shape is a bit chunkier. The SE was a great step up guitar from entry level Ibanez. Maybe in a few years (as my chops improve) I will make the jump to the made in USA models...
The SE is really an amazing guitar, especially for the price. Would be nice to have one with a roasted maple neck, even for the extra 200 or so bucks.
On the guitars I've tried, the main difference is definitely the pickups and electronics. SE guitars generally play very well indeed, but they sometimes have shockingly bad pickups. I don't really understand why, even Harley Bentons have decent sounding pickups.
I have a PRS SE baritone from a few years back, and it sounded horrendous when I bought it. Swapped the pickups for some second hand Lace Dissonant Aggressors and now it's just the best baritone ever!
"SE" stands for "Student Edition"?! I've always thought it means "South-Eastern" Production ;)
Nice.
@@spooky3120 I thought it's South East, then I realized that Korea is not part of South East Asia XD
and what does S2 stand for?
@@aerronjinxx5295 students SECOND guitar. Lol 😂 I don't know??? Good question though.
Haha I thought it was special edition wow
These guitars are awesome, both sound great! I have borrowed a few over the years, played out with them because I was thinking of buying one and just didn't fall in love with any of them. I know a lot of people swear by these, but I always go back to strat style guitars, like the one you recently built. This video is making me think though, maybe I will give one of these a shot again.
Best bang for buck is a used CE24 or 22. Old ones are all American made and can be bought for around a grand. I have suhr humbuckers in mine and they rule.
+jldkrank Nice! 👍
Are those Suhr Thornbucker pickups? I put Thornbuckers in my Paul Reed Smith S2 and now it sounds better than my Paul Reed Smith Core.
JTroskaTV I was considering thornbuckers, but I went with ssh (not plus) and ssv. I'm really happy with them. I like a little bit more output, so those were a good choice over the thorns for me.
You really can't go wrong with suhr electronics at all.
That is the absolute TRUTH!. IT is probably the best overall PRS guitar. I currently own a 513 w/ Brazilian rosewood neck, and a 30th anniversary Custom 24. I still say my first CE bolts were the best sounding and most versatile of all. It's the Dragon 1 and 2 pickups with the bolt neck construction AMAZING guitars. If you can find one for $1000, and it's original, BUY IT!!!!
Could not agree more in so many ways. The PRS SE Custom, although the 22, is very likely to be my next investment. I would love the American, it appeals to my appreciation of solid materials coupled with caring craftsmanship, but the price makes my eyes water. Glad you did this test, it does answer questions as to whether the [coff,coff] cheaper version was a good solid alternative.
Very informative video, I’ve dreamed of a USA PRS for a number of years and considered the cheaper alternative for a while too. Think I’ll be purchasing the Korean build 👍🤘
Your vids are really enjoyable and you seem like a stand up dude! Keep em coming and thanks!!
Judging by your playing, it looks like the USA model gave you less of a fight. Note runs and chord changes looked easier and smoother when compared to the SE. That being said, I love my SE Custom 24, it's my go to guitar when not thinking and just playing. Fun guitar. Great video!
I have 4 PRS SE of different models, and I truly love all of them. I thank you very much for this very good comparative analysis of the American and the Korean. I can see that, while the American is better in some construction refinements, the Korean is better for the possibility of using the single coil mode - something I like very, very much. I also have an Indonesian SE Standard 24 that has the same possibility with an entirely Mahogany body, without the Maple layer above it. It sounds differently from the Korean, and I also truly love it. I think that the refinements of the American doesn't worth the enormous difference in price, mostly due to absence of the single coil mode ( if I understood it correctly ). Once again many thanks for your precise analysis, it was highly enlightenening. I would like to add that, in my experience with the SE Custom 24 and the SE Standard 24, the single coil mode on the latter is something truly amazing. All the best ! P. S.: to me, Paul Reed Smith is a true genius.
It’s not really surprising the American made guitar with high end components sounds better, but not $2000 better. Great comparison video. I already knew I loved my SE but now I’m even more convinced I made the right choice.
OK, I seriously loaded this video up and then thought "do you want to do this, Brad?" and waited a while before saying "Yes. Darrell won't let you down. He's the best." You see, I just bought my first PRS and it's a Tremonti-edition PRS SE. It is simply fantastic, and a ton of fun to play and hear (and look at). I couldn't be happier. The resonance, styling, and trem are that of more expensive guitar lines. Still I wondered about comparisons with the American model. When you started comparing these, I did the blind test thing and turned around to listen to both without knowing which was playing. With the exception of the single coil setting, I couldn't tell a difference, and I usually can with your comparisons. I think they're closer than other brands low-end/high-end models are to each other. Your notes about a complexity level are a good way to say what you're hearing, but it doesn't translate in video as much as in person. The work of art statement is true as well, and what PRS are also known for. Nice job with this one!
+Brad Coleman Thanks!
Congratulations on the new guitar ☺
The SE I own is the newest. The pickups are better, and I have the signature headstock. It really is a great guitar
+John Osborne Nice!
That's one thing I always appreciate about PRS. They always push to make even the lower - tier guitars better.
Same here I just got the limited edition "Stealth Quilt" SE Custom 24. Ebony fretboard, full satin finish (the neck feels amazing), maple neck with brings some snap and brightness to the sound (the current SE"s have mahogany necks which are warmer). Shoved DiMarzio Illuminators in there and man... For 1100€ I doubt there's any guitar that comes close to the sound and the quality.
I totally agree! The 85/15 "s" in the 2018 SEs have surprised me beyond any expectations!!!! They are pretty hot, with a beefy low end, but remain clear and with a good definition and dynamic!!!!!
I have both Custom 24 10 top and the SE, LP's Strat's, etc... And your comments are spot on. Excellent video. Love your playing too.
Thanks Mike!
Sounds like you've got some beautiful guitars!
I just bought a ce-24,. I'm selling it, and my g&l custom legacy and buying the PRS McCarty 594. A comparison between the 594 and Les Paul would be a cool video.
happy with the 594 compared to the CE 24?
This is a really well done comparison demo video. Thank you!
I love both! Anything PRS automatically in my bucket list lol
Charles Grey I had a used 3rd generation SE that absolutely curb stomped my '08 Gibson Les Paul. That SE is a guitar that I really do miss.
bought an se on reverb for $450 changed the bridge, tuners and pickups.....after cost from reverb shopping $900....It's now an incredible guitar.
Cool video for sure. What year is the SE though? in 2017 they got they got Paul Reed Smith on the headstock and most models got new pickups. Which are suppose to be even closer to the USA version. Also I believe the nuts are made out of quite different material. The USA ones are suppose to have a lot of brass powder in them. Can't go wrong with either one, both are fantastic guitars.
I was really turned off by the old PRS SE logo, so glad they changed it.
Ya the new logo is what made me pull the trigger on the new SE's
I think that is a 2016.
I just bought a 2017 "Floyd" Custom 24 SE one two weeks ago at Guitar Center for around $900. It's fantastic. I have an American made Ernie Ball Music Man, and I honestly think the SE is a much better made and better sounding guitar. The tuning rods (or w/e they're called) on it are really good too; I had a 3 hour band practice on Saturday and didn't need to tune it.
Congratulations on the new guitar!!
I love your vids Darrell. The content is excellent without bias and to the point. The pace and flow of the vids is spot on, no superfluous meaningless fluff. You get to the point and generally have something good to say even on the cheapest guitars. And your playing is exceptional. Editing is wonderful too. Saturday is binge day for me on your channel. I have several nice Fender and Gibson guitars, Les Pauls, Strats, Teles, but I still suck at playing (a couple beers temper the frustration) but still no record offers yet. It's nice to see what my guitars can really do in the right hands. Keep up the great work that you do, it helps in so many ways. I travel Canada on a regular basis and I have customers up in your neck of the woods. Hope to meet you some day. The pleasure would be all mine. Cheers!
Darrel love this video.have been wondering about these prs guitars never played one due to the price of the American ones.hate to fall in love with something that I can't afford without the wife cutting something off lol.but after this video I might try out the other one.thanks to this video.love what you do thank you very much!
+Tom Shultz Anytime! ☺
Darrell, nice review! I like the way you go into the detail of the guitars. The S. Korean SE you're playing must be an older model cause the 2018's have CUSTOM on the Truss Rod Cover not PRS. They run $830 most places in the States. I personally like the sound of the SE over the American. To me the American sounds more subdued and has more over tones where the SE is more articulate, I can hear each and every note. Thanks again for another Great Video Comparison, you do a Fantastic Job!! Keep up the Good Work!
+Rick Hill Thanks Rick!
Darrell, I totally agree with what you said at around 1:00 about the overall design of the guitar! I see so many guitars that are derivatives of a les paul or a strat, and while they have their own unique qualities and features, PRS guitars just seem like their own amazing guitar brand because of their own unique qualities and models, maybe besides the 245. 🎸🎸🎸 Rock on!!!
I think as far as sound and tone goes, there is a definite point of diminishing returns. In my mind, what you're mostly paying for with high-end guitars is the attention to detail in the craftsmanship, not necessarily just better sound. I think a good video that demonstrated this was your review of the Harley Benton 335-style guitar. It sounded just fine, but the detail when it comes to finishing and woodwork is where you clearly see where the extra money for a high-end instrument goes.
I love the stuff you do with the tremolo and having it set to bend a certain pitch. After seeing your demonstration on how to set up a floating trem and seeing you play it on a prs I’m for sure doing it to my prs Santana se
+Jonathan Harvey Thanks Jonathan ☺
Hey i know this jonathan harvey guy
Is the trem setting the reason for the „high screaming tones“ which you play once in a while? I was always curious how to get them out of my guitars.
@@rolux4853 what you're wanting to learn is pinch harmonics
Matthew Clanton thanks man!
I’ve looked into it a bit and that’s the sound I was looking for!
Finally a review worth listening to! You really did both guitar justice, especially PRS SE Cuustom 24 which i'm gonna buy probably. This or Gibson Les Paul Studio Faded... It's hard to decide, both i can get good deal on, especially on PRS SE which i can get for 500 eur.
that creamy distorted tone you put together always makes every guitar sound amazing
+HoshiHearts RetroGaming Thanks man! 😀
agreed, what's the signal chain for each guitar?
SE Standards are $499, in my book that is budget price for a professional instrument. Sure I would rather have a CE or a Custom but those are $2G and $3500 respectively. Squire, Epiphone or an SE Standard. Hands Down Paul Reed Smith!
Hello Darrell,
Thanks for the video; it was a lot of fun! How would you compare the American models by Paul Reed Smith against Music Man?
+Marco Lalama That is a great question!
Two of the most amazing designed instruments ever!
I'll add it to my "to do" list ☺
Off the top of my head:
Design goes to MM, beauty goes to PRS, and as for tone, I'll have to do a comparison 👍
Mate anytime I think about gear comparison there is a video on your channel already. Thanks for the cool content!
They also have a proper PRS logo on them now.
I am so happy you made this video! I was thinking of asking you if you planned on doing a video on these two PRS’s! I have a 2017 SE Custom 24 and love it! And with the way you played them both (like you always do) I know that made a good choice. I felt that the Korean SE models to be just as well made as the Mexican Fenders and at a price to where one could do upgrades an get it to be closer to its American cousin without breaking the bank. Thanks again for another great video!!
+Tim Castle Anytime! ☺
The SEs are definitely great instruments 👍
Very nice both guitars, I don't know if I am being biased but the American made maybe sounds a little smoother to my ears! Very nice video!
+Pmcguckin10 Thanks!
USA model sounds more colorful and rich. Lovely playing to demo the guitars properly allowing the tone to come through unfettered.
Listen again closely guys...the Paul Reed Smith cleans blow away the PRS...imho of course...nice vid thx!
Listen to the video without watching and depending on your speakers.........................You may not know the Difference.
With upgrades, my SE semi hollow is now a great sounding and playing guitar. I added custom adjustable bridge from John Mann that added much better sustain and no more buzz after having 2 stock ones, some SD pups and locking tuners. It has a good foundation to build on.
Man, I love that gold top.
Always enjoy your videos! I liked your comparison, although I think it should be pointed out that new SEs have different pickups than the one you tested. The new SE's still have imported pickups, but most of them are the new 'S" version of the USA 85/15 pickups, and are, IMO, an improvement over the ones tested here. Also, I've owned 5 SEs (still have a couple) as well as Core and S2 USA models, and the biggest complaint I have with the SE line is the plastic nut. On some SE's, they work great. On others, they stick and make the guitar nearly impossible to keep in tune. Sometimes opening the slots a bit helps, but I usually suggest that an SE model be upgraded with either a PRS USA nut, or the Graph-Tech TUSQ equivalent. Both are about $15, if you can replace it yourself. The Graph-Tech model is a better fit (Same thickness front-to-back as the SE plastic nut...the USA nut is thinner by about .02"), but I think the PRS USA nut works a little better. You made both sound fantastic, BTW!
If I had paid full price for the Custom 24 and I heard this, I would be absolutely livid.
Great PRS comparison Darrell I bought a 2017 Standard with split coil and because of the versatility of combining Paul and strat like tones in one guitar and for the $$ it's an amazing guitar..over all I'm happy to have PRS again loved this keep it up your awsome!!
+Eddie Hoffmann Agreed! It's a winning combo tone-wise!
I'm actually getting an SE when they get another shipment at sweetwater (:
+Andrew Teller Sweet!!
US pickups sound smoother. Korean ones are harsh. Even my wife heard the difference when I got my US model after I first had an SE. She called it 'sweeter'. I ripped out everything but the tuners on my SE, it's incredible now. The SEs do play amazing, and US electronics and John Mann trem let it truly sound great. It's competing hard with my Les Paul here.
Your gold top looks great!
+Sherkhan Cool! What pickups did you put in?
All SE custom lines come with 9's string gauge, american made with 10's, there is a difference in tone's depth especially in single coil mode
+Francesco M Yeah, I thought that was an interesting decision to sell them with different guages too.
Francesco M My ZM came with 10's. But that's an artists signature guitar so perhaps that's why. I mean I'm pretty certain it came with 10's. I of course have it set with that now. You mentioned SE Custom so maybe you mean only for the custom as opposed to all PRS SE's.
Ronnie Williams according to PRS, all SE come with 9s except some artist models. I've always thought stock string gauge is irrelevant though since any new guitar should get new strings and a setup.
Darrell Braun Guitar according to Paul SE stands for "Student Edition", maybe light strings are more easy to play for a "beginner" guy. I own a Prs SE and I love it, absolutely not an entry level instrument, a respectable guitar under 1000€ with a lot to offer, professional players included
sillyak yes ahahah, I switched with 11's and now I have 10's gauge... (Dear lutist Ciccio) the scale is quite short and the guitar still remains smooth for me
I have the Korean zebra wood model and absolutely love it. I like that it's not as carved as the US model.
PRS are amazing regardless! Always wanted to own one! What are your overall thoughts?
+RC32 Spectacular guitars!
The only knock against them is the price - well that and some feel they don't have the "soul" of a LP or Strat. But that can only come with history ☺
Ye! Time will always tell. Can't afford one cause I'm broke, but they would still sound like a delight to play imo!
RC32, Sometimes some stores like Guitar Center have previous year models they want to clear from they stock...I got an SE Mark Tremonti for 520 dollars...awesome guitar...
Frederico Epstein is that so? I'll have to check that out! Although I don't think there are any Guitar Centers in San Antonio, plus that fact that I have only like 5 bucks lol
RC32, yes...they have stores in San Antonio... one address for you: 7325 San Pedro Ave Suite 105, San Antonio, TX 78216. If you don’t find, when you come to Houston they have many Guitar Centers...I know the Sugar Land store has one or two old SEs in clearance. All the best Buddy!
The gold top custom 24 is absolutely gorgeous! damn.
Darrell, I have the same exact same gold top but with the piezo and the thing that keeps me coming back is the feel of the neck. I have a few custom ordered warmoth necks on my Strats and they still don't give me that feeling. Its way to esoteric to describe which is why you didn't even try but im curious.....if your eyes were closed could you tell the two necks apart? is the shape similar? are they even close to the same? The one downside of having a PRS custom is that I'm scared to take it out of the house and every time I bring one of my backups....well...its just not the same. Its like going to a steak house and ordering a Kobe steak appetizer and then having a prime steak for dinner.....now the prime steak tastes like a hamburger after the Kobe app :)
+Bret Schwartz Hi!
The wide/thin profile of the SE is much thinner than the pattern thin profile of the goldtop, so they are very easy to tell apart.
I agree on the neck profile, it is incredibly comfortable.
Thanks for another great video...I know nothing about PRS, so it was nice to see something different. Really cool solos BTW!
+Constable 1976 Thanks!
Amen, Brother Constable. I've never touched a PRS, but I will soon. My GAS is kicking in.
baumfr I'm a Stratocaster/San Dimas player and will be sticking to them for the time being, I have constant GAS for Strats especially.
They sound pretty much the same to me, great guitars
Henry Hartley me 2
Agreed, difference is clear only when playing clean otherwise... meh
On this video, I found indeed that the American pickups had a wider range of frequencies. However, the SE clearly had more bass end and sounded less thin. I have experienced something similar comparing an American custom 22 and the custom 22 SE semi hollow. The SE semi-hollow one at $700 sounded better than the American custom 22 at $1900. Don’t know why. But that’s my experience. Their semi hollow really sound better overall, regardless which model you consider (single cut, double cut, hollow body II). Get one! ;-)
It took me twenty years to finally get an American made PRS. I’ve owned ten prs SE’s and they’re very awesome guitars. The Holcomb se is my favorite. I will say the second I played a core model the differences were crazy noticeable. There was a resonance that was amazing to feel and hear versus the basically flat CNC cut SE. the locking tuners on the prs guitars are amazing. I’ve never had them come out of tune or strip out. The pickups are really something too. Mainly the 85/15 set. Now the Korean SE’s 85/15 pickups are made to Paul’s exact specs but they don’t sound as rich and full for some reason although they are nice pickups. I’m just throwing this out there but you can get a used in perfect condition prs CE24 for the same price as a new SE. the CE is a bolt in/on neck so it has its own unique tone compared to the set neck one. I actually preferred the snappy sound of the CE to the core but those beautiful carves and tops on a core sure are something. I have a 2016 CE24 satin black out and I’ll be buried with that guitar. It’s that “one” guitar you find that you make a connection with that just melds with you. The complete feel of my CE feels more comfortable than the SE. plus my coil taped American 85/15’s sounds so close to my Strat that’s can really use that one guitar for everything. I’ll still buy SE’s though because theyre an amazing value and mods go a long way on them. But my god when you do play an American made one the feel is insanely noticeable
I have a 2004 custom 22 and the SE 7 custom 24. Sure two very different guitars but everything about the USA PRS is greater. And this may sound weird but every time i open the hardcase i can smell the mahogany! No joke! and i love it.
You are the best.
Btw I have a question...I've been playing guitar for 3 years, but I still don't understand why these PRS are so expensive..
I have a ESP LTD EC-1000 Deluxe (Red)..Do you think it's a great guitar in terms of sound ?
+DenisV Hi!
Most instruments (of any price - range) can be made to sound great with a high quality amp.
Playability and aesthetics are a different matter.
So, in the end, if your guitar plays good, and you like how it looks, then it is good 😀
They're expensive because of the craftsmanship.
You’ve really put this guitar 🎸 on the map for me. I think I’m falling in live with it ❤️
Great vid! How about the CE24? How does it stack up?
+Rooster 7six I've never played a CE, but would love to try one ☺
Another great video. As always you are a great player and always have killer tone. Rock on brother!!!
"Mid 80s ... New Kids On The Block"
I see what you did.
Your vids are so helpful to me. Keep it up, man.
Thanks! Will do ☺
Can you so a lesson on fast alternate picking licks? You're really good at them
+Luke McDonnell Hi Luke!
I'll add it to my list ☺
Super review and very good choice of playing! Thanks for posting
Darrell,
I wish I could play like you, can you show us how to make the sound like yours? Thanks
+SoSaBye Thanks!
I'll see what I can do ☺
The core is just so expensive bc it's more of this tradituonal, handmade spirit that runs through your viens while playing it
It is such a great instrument with this accuracy on the fretboard and just the all over design
Okay good instructional review Video.