He Tried To Change My Mind About PRS Guitars
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- Опубліковано 9 січ 2023
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Rhett, come to the dark side. We have cookies! 🍪
Coruption?
Rhett: no!!!! it's impossible!!!! Welllllll maybe one cookie.......
If by cookies you mean that note on your site about selling of personal information and cross website tracking then yes, Paul Reed Smith does in fact have cookies.
Hahahahah!!!
Create a nitro finish that, now hear me out for a second, a nitro finish that wears and relics naturally. Im probably in the minority, but I Love how Gibsons and nitro Fenders will naturally change and become unique or "mine" the more love and time I put into them. My PRS's get little nicks that you cant really see, and don't go further than that. Anyone seen a natural relic PRS? Do they exist?
You really can’t criticize a guitar company for having a high quality control, to ensure every guitar leaves the factory sounding awesome!
I wouldn’t say he meant anything in a negative way he just basically said some people like guitars like that but they aren’t for him its not like he said they were junk he had some great things to say like their quality control is amazing. I personally hate playing Les Pauls And I own one that I hot rodded which is the best sounding guitar I’ve ever played or owned so. The studio I used when I was still playing music tried to buy it from me he only owned the best of the best sounding guitars, a bunch of musicians tried buying it from me people would say come on u never play it live just sell it let someone get enjoyment out of it, I have let people borrow it for recoding, people have said I shouldn’t be “scared” to play it live it’s not some super expensive guitar and I say no it’s not some 10,000 dollar guitar but it’s the best sounding guitar that’s why u are talking about it which they agree and I always said I absolutely hate how les Paul’s feel their necks feel uncomfortable to me I feel like I have to really try when playing them then I get told “you probably have only played urs” and no it’s not true there is a guitar store locally that has literally any guitar u want to play if u ask for some super rare guitar they don’t laugh at you they ask what color u want and I tried to like les Paul’s because mine sounds so good I played every one I could get my hands on and hated every single one! I’m not trashing Les Pauls they sound amazing again mine is the best sounding guitar I’ve ever played but they just aren’t for me id rather play my fender strat that sounds great but not AMAZING like the les Paul but my strat feels natural to play. It’s not so much criticism from Rhett as it is his personal preference because many players love PRS for the reasons he dislikes them everyone is different I mean he loves playing les Paul’s and I hate playing them.
You can if you're Rhett Shull and you struggle to come up with original, coherent thoughts.
Totally agree Rhett Schull is lacking in originality , also born out by his dervative guitar playing, check out Chris Buck = great guitar player , great talker, a real breath of fresh air. Schull is just dull.
Sure you can just act like Rhett 😐
I thought everyone was down on Gbson because their quality control sucks, especially last 10 years. This guy comes out and makes that sound like a positive. "I spent months hunting and finally found a really good one. It's my Les Paul. Played some dogs, but this one is a diamond in the rough". Gibson, hire this man to your marketing team immediately.
My thoughts exactly.
It's the feel the tone ,when you pick it up there is something special ,I bought a 2005 LP standard I played a bunch of them the one that followed me home was superior to me in every way.subjective
@@markcooper9063 agree with you too; this was how I chose my McCarty.
He wants originality.
Like, that is what he think he's got.
That’s hilarious & I thought the same thing…
Our wives & girlfriends can also fall into that category…beauty is in the eye (ear) of the beholder…
Its my first time though that Ive heard someone put down consistency in quality as a bad trait, lol😂
Looking at Rhett's face, since the beginning of the test, showed me clearly that he would be not convinced at all with PRS 😂
Pound for pound, PRS stomps Gibson top to bottom. Back in the day, you could probably make the argument that a Les Paul would win a blind taste test. They can't even beat a Harley Benton now: when you listen to both in a mix nobody can hear the difference. This has been proven. Sorry, but I refuse to even try to justify paying more for less.
Yeah it's a form of Stockholm Syndrome. When you're used to fighting an instrument for so long, it becomes normal, so normal that you'll defend it despite all its shortcomings.
@@ScottMacLeodCompany that's just an opinion. I'm a Strat guy all day, but a PRS has never stuck out to me like a LP. I think they sound great, for sure. But a totally different thing.
@@jerk_store Yeah, pretty much true. I think we get used to the design flaws and write it off as "personality".
@@jerk_store my 1st guitar ( ok second but I inherited the 1st and I hated it) is an Ibanez AES10, I also have a Taylor, Alvarez LP style elec and a Samick 335 style. In a lot of ways the Ibanez is my favorite acoustic plugged in, but I prefer my taylor unplugged. I’m not a fan of the Alvarez but that’s because it doesn’t truly fit my playing style. We adapt to what we have and expect that to be “normal”.
Those of us who don’t have the money or the access to try/own many examples to get the best guitars from a company that is inconsistent at best appreciate a company that delivers consistent excellence. I understand that many people want something better than what anyone else has, and it’s hard to feel that way about your guitar when there aren’t a lot of bad ones just like it to make yours special. But to me, Gibson’s inconsistency is not a feature, it’s a problem.
Exactly! Just because they can make great guitars that shouldn't mean that they should be excused for the ton of subpar guitars they also make.
I don’t think he was trying to say that gibson is less consistent in quality, but rather in consistence in the tonality and feel of the guitar. I don’t know the numbers either but I’m pretty sure gibson sells a lot more so that sorta QC is much different at that level of manufacturing. That isn’t even mentioning the price difference. But then again prices can range so much depending on one’s budget and the intention of the purchase. I probably wouldn’t spend over 2-2.5k on a guitar ever. I love my strat and that was 900. Beauty of guitars, all depends on the player
@@BudderChicken101 "consistence in the tonality and feel of the guitar". How is that different from quality? In engineering, a product has specs which they need to meet. Ex; A nail could be Xmm +/- 0.01 mm in length, width, etc., if they meet it, it's sold, if not, it's scrapped. If they have lax specs and/or poor manfacturing/QA ....... It's basically what defines good/bad quality. It's consistency, if they don't feel and play the same......... It means they can't build their own guitars properly!
@@BudderChicken101 play a murphy lab Gibson, you may change your mind. it changed mine now I have 2 including one on order. Ive played Murphy Lab models of 57 gold top, 59 LP, es-335 and 355, and each have been some of the best guitars I've ever laid hands on. I could care less about the relicing btw, I only get ultra light so I can get that new lacquer.
@@ScottsGuitar at that price for Murphy labs i expect it to sound and play immaculately.
You’ve got to be happy if you’re PRS. If the biggest knock against you is you’re too consistently good, then clearly, you’re making an excellent product.
Assuming what they put out consistently is your thing, you can feel safe as a consumer buying one.
I was gonna say more or less the same thing. It's odd that Gibsons are so inconsistent (lousy QC?) but somewhere in there you find 'the gem', whereas PRS seem to be so consistent (bland?). I have tried a few PRS guitars - SE and US made - and the quality is there but they don't 'move me' . . . dunno what that says about me but there ya go 😅 I do like the SE 245 - I suspect it's because it feels familiar, neck etc - I play a 1968 LP Custom so it's what I'm used to.
Honda Civic’s are all super consistent too
@@jojobar5877 😂😂😂😂
Only thing is, they’re even more overpriced than gibson
Well, I guess the problem with consistency is that if one doesn't fit your hand none of them will. So maybe a bit of variability isn't that bad always? You just have to do the job of searching the one that's best for you. And that's somewhat subjective.
Last year I realized something that changed my perspective: I was traveling and needed an electric that I can beat up and use for practice. Bought a Squier Telecaster Bullet, I bonded with the thing straight away. It wasn't about quality or sound, it was just fun to play, and somehow it was "Enough". Of course, we all want that $5000 guitar, but the $150 can do a fantastic job too
Cheers to all
I have realized that too, I got custom les paul that was near 7k, while I cherish that guitar, I also have an $80 strat copy from monoprice that stays in tune, sounds like a strat, and does its job... I guarantee you if I where to slap a fender neck and logo on it, 99% of folks could not tell a difference. My new philosophy is does it do it's job, can it stay in tune, and do you connect with it. Price be damed
Yeah, I get that.
Its like owning a really expensive car and worrying all the time if someone is going to scratch it.
Many years ago I bought an S class Mercedes. I sold it quite quickly (bought second hand) as the cost of servicing, repairs and parts are horrendous.
I felt stressed out driving it - like don't get too close to me - it cost several grand to buy a goddamned headlight.
So expensive guitars end up being played only on particular occasions. For daily practice and just jamming around, the cheaper models are fine and the user does not have to worry if they get paint chips or scratches.
@@markdignam3525 Yeah, exactly. First guitar I ever got was a steelstring travel Cort, the earthshade. I'm gonna pull the trigger and buy an Alhambra 4p soon, and I just know, if I'm sitting on the couch, and wanting to play a bit, I'll probably pick up the Cort. It's smaller, it's fun, it's what I know, and it has so many dents and bobs that I'll more easily grab it. But for that classical sound, I still really want that Alhambra
You can switch the pickups on that thing, and then proceed to melt everybody's face.
I don't want a 5000 guitar.
if someone is crazy enough to gift me with one, I'm selling it. my go in life is to play music, not show off how expensive is my instrument, specially considering that by spending 5000 on overpriced hyped "classic" guitar I'll be getting poorer just to make them richer.
I want no part of this fancy dumb game.
It's difficult to convince someone who has already made up their mind.....were so fortunate to have all these great guitars available and not everyone is going to like everything I suppose.
You're totally right. Let's be honest, half of our appreciation of guitars is aesthetics. If you don't like the way it looks, it doesn't matter how good it sounds.
@@reverb508exactly like I love the way hollowbody’s sound but for me I don’t like the look and they don’t suit me so I’d never own a hollow body
Zack blew it. If he had put them all through a tube screamer, Rhet would have loved them 😂
Lol
He likes shxtty farty pickups
you have not seen his video on why he hates tube screamers.
I'm a rocker but always hated distortions/overdrives and especially fuzz pedals. I prefer a raging amp with humbuckers that turn down well. Basically a Les Paul through Marshall sound. Lately I use a Helix and prefer the REVV Purple amp
@@jerbear1601 never owned a Marshall. Yet!
“I don’t like the fact that all the PRS guitars, on any guitar shop, sound the same” - this is called consistency, Rhett, and that is what any manufacturer should aim for. That is what makes their reputation; they are reliable!
That's true. . . and that's why it does NOT inspire me. PRS is like the Taylor of electric guitars.
And what makes up Gibsons reputation is a 3 year span of one style of guitar, and Gibson have been around for far longer than PRS. We’re not talking about cars bro!
@@ArielCardona could be worse, they could be like Taylor Electric guitars 🤮
I spent a $100k on Gibson guitars but I finally found THE ONE.
That’s a fair point but a lot of people want guitars that are distinct from others they have. I love my Strat for its versatility and it’s ergonomics, while I love my Tele for its twang and simple charm. It’s all a matter of different strokes for different folks.
I'll take the PRS any day over a Gibson. Love having a guitar that stays in tune and you can intonate. It's the little things.......
Same. Even the SE models perform better than most high end Gibson's on the shelf.
Nahhhh, not even close. Soulless guitars. Never played a single one that outperformed my 2004 Supreme in any way.
This is two incredible musicians who have done a great job locating instruments that match the sound they seek in their head. I get why each appreciates what they have and they did a fantastic job of showcasing everything. Awesome content gentlemen!
I used to think PRS guitars were fine but had no life or "soul" to their sound. Then I realized what I was thinking of as a soulful sound was really "vintage". Since then, I've come to realize that a PRS will never out strat a stratocaster or be a tele. But pound for pound, they are some of the absolute best guitars money can buy. I'm now a huge fan.
I think this comment really nails it. If you're listening for a specific vintage sound, then of course no other guitar is going to feel quite right.
Only a f'n retard would dislike the look of a custom 24. You used to be cool but now you're just an unoriginal baby beato wannabe with your old fart guitar.
The thing with PRS is, they always innovate, come out with something new every release. No such thing as reissue or things like that. Hence the price drop 2nd handed because people dont celebrate 'old progress/innovation' (that's how I see PRS are, progress). Thing is, they're very consistent, no guitar is unique, and this can put people off at times they say.
I agree. If you are chasing or looking for historic or vintage feel / vibe, you're not going to get it with PRS, and that unfortunately is the reason I never really considered their more premium guitars. As for the money they are asking, there are other guitars elsewhere that are on my want list that tick those boxes.
What I will say is that PRS do make incredibly well built and stunning guitars and their QC is that above of Fender and Gibson.
I'm sorry to say this, because I love guitars but I can't stand other guitarists because they are so finicky. They spend a lifetime looking for Jimmy Page's Les Paul sound, only to learn that all they really needed was...
a Telecaster.
PRS are great. The 'it has no soul' platitude is just one of those self-perpetuating echo chamber sayings that go around from time to time. It's a blank canvas for the player to have their own sound. I was lucky enough to own a few that I had to sell for financial reasons, and I'm looking for a beat up McCarty to hang onto.
What I personally think is interesting. Rhett playing the PRS INSTANTLY made him play more nuanced stuff. U could even see it. He was stepping into a more "sophisticated" realm of playing an instrument. With the gibson he goes right into that bluesy rhythm stuff. The instrument is the mouth in which u speak that dialect. It channels different feelings.
Exactly! Well put. Even this happened to John Mayer when he switched, which I saw coming over 5 years in advance! No one believed me he would switch to only PRS until he did....
Well yes. The tone of the PRS is a bit sweeter which makes it evoke a different type of music naturally. Just like how if you pick up a flying V you instantly want to shred and grow your hair out. It would just feel weird to play Jack Johnson on it lmao
I'm a PRS guy and I love the playability and the clarity. I was originally in the market for an LP and when I tried the PRS I was instantly sold. I'm with Zach! Great video Rhett!
21 minutes. Of Rhett and Zach basically saying “My Dad can beat up your Dad.”😂😂😂
Rhett is the always on the hunt for the elusive. He loves the imperfections which others call character. Zach likes his consistant and precise. He knows exactly the sound he wants in his head and PRS nails that. Now for Sir Richard Attenborough giving the naration: "Here we find the mighty hunter of Tone searching for his prey, the elusive, nearly mythical perfect tone. On the other side is the farmer who is making sure his crop of perfectly grown plants produce optimum yield which is in stark contrast. Fascinating really."
I must object to you confusing the Attenborough brothers!
This is great lmao
This just proves that every guitar has its own voice and not every voice speaks to every player.
I also don't think he had an open-mind; seemed very biased but I'm only halfway through the video. But you're statement is very true, I just think it's completely the case here.
These videos (along with the one you did on the strats) are really fun, so here's my vote for more of them. I also appreciate that you don't pull punches when discussing what you don't like about these guitars. That was especially evident in the stratocaster episode. Good stuff Rhett!
It’s all about the sound in your head. I played LP’s for years and still love the sound. Sometimes a song demands that particular sound and nothing else will do. That being said, I finally bought a core custom 24 (used). When I plugged it into my Soldano, I heard the sound in my head come through the speakers for the first time ever. If we all liked the same things, life and music would be awfully boring.
For me it's completely different. Sound is important, but It's all about the feel in my hands. I love the sound of a Les Paul. I wouldn't own one if someone gave me even one of the holy grails. I HATE the way they feel in my hands. I love the sound of an SG even more, but just can't mesh with the feel. 100% subjective. My favorite style guitar is a strat. So I did the most logical thing I could think of. I bought an S2 standard 22 satin. It's like a strat and an SG had a love child. And when I pick it up I often can't put it down.
Absolutely right Matt. It's always the quest for the sound in your head. How do I get what I hear "up here" to come out "there"?
11:12 Yeh I hear a guitar tone and my mind must identify it with a classic tone,… oh that’s a strat or that’s a tele or that’s definitely a LES Paul. I just can’t enjoy alien tones meaning those other brands. Maybe I’m weird.
My holy grail was always an R9. Then I bought one and loved it and played the absolute hell out of it. I bought my PRS, and the R9 hasn’t come out of the case since then unless a song demands that LP sound. I have a Jeff Beck Strat that I truly love; it also lives in the case until a Strat is needed. The quality of the PRS as far as finish/fret work/etc reflects the “pride in your product” of the people that built it. Just my opinion, not that my opinion is worth much.
I think a lot of it is the lows & low mids. Lot of PRSs are voiced to have more clarity than a PAF, so traditional fans like Rhett feel like something’s missing. That “thing” is why a LP sounds like a LP & a PRS is its own thing. Inconsistencies in gibsons make you feel like you got a magic one.
truth man........
thats my issue with his outlook i wanna buy from a company that makes 20 shit ones and one thats pretty good lol
@@wiseartmusic5979I don’t see it that way I just listen and hear that the Les Paul has tone unlike the PRS’s here which to me just sound thin.
@@Monsterdrumma kinda depends on what prs your playing my prs pauls guitar is almost to fat sounding almost being the key phrase. I have to re eq when i use it add more highend and pull the bass back
As a lefty, there generally isn’t the option to play a bunch of similar guitars to find the one that “speaks to me”. So that PRS consistency would probably be a big positive since buying guitars is occasionally playing one in person and often ordering it site unseen. So being able to order one and not need to just hope you get a good one is a good thing. Too bad they don’t make a lot of their models as lefties!
I like the honesty and respectful discourse between both players. Gives me rich perspectives to mentally chew on and think about. Well done video.
I kinda felt the same as Rhett about PRS for many years, but recently I discovered them for me, and boy, did I fall in love with them. I consider them to be a blank canvas & brush set for an artist that doesn`t tell you what to do, but allows you to do anything you want - effortlessly. Plus the reliability and consistency, especially on stage, and light weight, the versatility, the elegance... it`s all there. My favorites are the CEs and the Fiore, which I absolutely love and tend to use live pre-dominantly now. I get it that certain archetypes of guitars might inspire one, like a Gretsch or Jazzmaster, and no PRS ever can substitute for that - but I don`t think it is their intention to do so. It comes down to what works personally for you, where you intend to go, and what you want to do - there is no "good" or "bad". And by the way, I also owned several SEs - still have one - and they are absolutely the best that you can get for that money. No big difference to my CEs, I gotta say that.
I totally understand why someone would go Gibson, especially LP...but I really like the clarity of PRS pickups. And I know this isn't about bridges, but I also like that I can get PRS tone along with a trem that will stay in tune. And maybe it's just me but I find PRS pickups to be a bit more versatile. They don't have the LP thing, but they get close and still have a lot of other tones I find it much harder to get on a LP. Then again, not every guitar needs to be "versatile."...Yea I'd still go PRS.
When I bought my first PRS I tried out 4 identical CU24 from the year (2005) in different colors and a 1991 “small heel” CU24 and they all felt the exact same and sounded nearly the same. They are so outrageously consistent and seem to always have been. Currently have 3 PRS from 2005-2006 and one from 2015 and they do not disappoint me in anyway. Can totally see how that would be off putting to someone who wants something that fits them rather than them fitting to the instrument.
I love the color of that vela!
I love the sound of that Les Paul.
I love that you guys did such a nice comparison of the guitars.
PRS necks definitely take some getting used to. I love the pattern thin though, but I have pretty small hands.
I need versatility and tuning stability and that's why I love PRS...plus they're stunning to look at. One thing I'm missing from my collection is a nice Gibson though. I'm very tempted! Both of you guys make everything sound great!
I love this. Honesty, not being afraid to say you really think, when you don't like something, is so refreshing on UA-cam. Thanks for this video and keep on rockin'!
I thought i would have really liked to have been the 3rd guy/friend in this room with these guys, so refreshing to see and hear a conversation (exploration) like that.
I went to buy my "forever" guitar. Played a variety of non-Fender guitars (I already have a Strat and a Tele). Played a Les Paul, played a 335, played a Custom 24...walked out with a PRS CE24 Semi-Hollowbody. It is beyond amazing FOR ME. Everyone has their opinion. :)
I also have a strat and tele (US models) but I wanted to give LP a try. I had ordered a LP Standard from Sweetwater last year but I sent it right back. I then went on a hunt at several local stores trying to find that one good LP Standard. Never found one I could live with at that price point. I don’t have the luxury of having Norm’s nearby with Tim Pierce helping me find “the one” 😉 Ended up buying a PRS. Next purchase will be either a 594 McCarty or CE 24.
From the PRS’ i’ve played i’m more impressed with the ce than any other myself.
I have a Strat and Tele as well. I traded an AR with a buddy of mine, for his beautiful Les Paul Studio that he never used. I played it a few times, but it never spoke to me. I went to trade that in for another Strat when the rep that was helping me gave me an SE Custom 24-08 to try out. Played it for about an hour straight, and left with it that day. I love it. It’s so versatile, sounds amazing, and it just felt so right in my hands. With my last name being Fiore I’d love to try the PRS bearing my last name, but I can’t find one near me. Maybe some day I guess, although it’s a little pricey.
Joe I believe the Semi Hollow PRS CE 24 is the best sounding, most comfortable and most versatile guitar ever made. I don't play any of my Gibson guitars anymore and rarely play my Strats.
@@Nyg2011
Get a Studio.
The 80’s Studios are great. Just add whatever cosmetics you’re wanting. The Les Paul Studio is the only one worth the price point.
Similar to how Rhett helped show that the $1600 US built PRS is the only one worth the price point. I’d take an Indonesian one for $750 used, after I find one that feels right.
Both are overpriced, but Gibson has only gotten a little better with quality control for the price.
Love your videos! I think this was a great exploration of PRS guitars. I have never played one and I kind of have the same feeling about them that Rhett does. Rhett, what do you think of Rickenbackers? Would you ever make a video exploring them?
PRS has to be one of the most beautiful guitars made, and the quality is there too. I had one but I did eventually move it along solely because I could not get used to the wide thin neck. Shame really as I liked everything else about it. I ended up with a Les Paul that for me anyway provides what I had with the PRS, but with a neck that I’m very comfortable with.
Im not a PRS fan, BUT the other day I played a couple "cheaper" PRS electrics at a friends home and I was absolutely SHOCKED at how much I loved playing them. Style wise, not for me, BUT for studio work, damn, absolutely. I think I need one. They sounded incredible and were just amazing instruments.
I'm a PRS guy, I get where Rhett is coming from, but Zach says it perfectly at 11:35 when he talks about definition and clarity. I do neo-soul, gospel, and funk, and that "sound" for me is defined, tidy, clear, almost piano like. When I'm playing clean it needs to be extremely clean, I don't want any grit or dirt in there. And when I turn on drives or distortion it's usually for fusion style lead lines or background worship stuff, and my PRS gives me the clarity to cut through a fairly dense mix of synth, keyboards, organ, bass, multiple guitars, and stem tracks. The LP Rhett has was darker, grittier, and growled; that's a great sound, but it's not one that would work for me and what I do. If I had more budget and application for a LP I would love to have one paired with a good fuzz :)
Agreed. My Custom 24 can sound like a strat in the 2nd and 4th position for some really good single coil tones. Can’t really get that with a LP in my experience.
@@Jason-kv7cm Yup, something I forgot to mention as a big benefit; the flexibility of a PRS is hard to beat. And for what I do I don't always have the ability to switch out guitars in the middle of a set so having single coil "ish" sounds is huge.
You can always get a muddier sound, the opposite is not true... There is absolutely no comparison, the PRS's are much superior instruments, although I don't discuss or argue about personal preferences.
It's definitely a voicing / EQ / frequency response difference
@@ClaudioMartella I think it has to do with the fact that vintage guitars were not that good to start with.
Its like designing a new TV or a new car to give you the experience of the 70's TVs and car ride, its not that dramatic with guitars but we have come a long way technologically in guitars also.
Classic cars are good to show but no-one sane would race with them against new cars, unless its about looks. The same thing applies to guitars, its all about looks.
I bought a DGT and still have it. Crazy good intonation and stays in tune unbelievably! I love Grissom and his sounds so thought I’d get a DGT. I bought it used and I feel like I have to fight with it to play it. Chording and arrpegiating chords it’s awesome. Playing faster licks I’ve Always personally found it hard to play.
I hear you. Among my favorite pickups ever, but the .11s are not very easy to play. I restrung mine with 10-46 and 09-46, but that didn’t work well.
Rhett this was a great video. You guys really got to the heart of it. Thanks for the idea and for the comparison.
I think PRS got it exactly right with the hollowbody series. It’s amazing to me that you don’t see more people playing them. It DOES remind me of the ES guitars. I love my hollowbody II with piezo, because I can use the volume control to blend in some clarity when I’ve got the tone rolled off of the pick ups for something unique.
I like my Hollowbody because it weighs around 5 pounds.
More content with these two and I'm here for it. You guys are great together.
Another thing is I love listening to Grissom but when he picks up a Les Paul (not sure I’ve seen this actually) or a vintage tele (more common) I feel like his tone comes alive to another level!!!
I enjoyed the demonstration, because they did everything on the same playing field.🎸🎸 I enjoyed the distinctions between the two. I have had much of the same experiences playing both my Les Paul & various PRS. The Les Paul, you get a definite piece of music and guitar history, and when set up very well and with strings that fit my playability, it plays and sounds great! And with the Paul Reed Smith you get a very good quality , very accurate guitar, especially the attack, when playing fast, similar to my Fender tele. I just want to say,about a guitar, ,,find one you love to play, set it up the way you like it and be proud of it, whatever brand..🎸😁🐦
As a lefty, it took me about 15 years to find a PRS that spoke to me (considering how relatively few exist, and how stubbornly vintage-inspired I am). I found a late 90s Custom 22, and while I agree with you Rhett that there is significantly less "mojo" behind it, especially compared to my vintage guitars, and even Eastman SB59/v and my Danocaster Double Cut, but it does a job, and it's what you concluded in your video: they just WORK. If I need something that I know will be stable, and will work in basically any track or situation, I will always pick up that guitar (even as a Strat guy). There is one out there for everyone!
That's why I bought a Taylor sight unseen from Sweetwater. I'm a lefty so as you know, not a lot of options out there and for my first acoustic, I needed a company that was known for their quality control for building guitars. I am too fresh for, "well this one feels better", blah blah blah, as I just wanted to get after it and start playing. Taylor had a good reputation for playability and consistency. Now it's time to practice.
My biggest takes. Zach is incredibly articulate and can piece together what a guitar gives him in great detail. Like details I'll never be able to notice. Next is that RS's Les Paul sounds smoking every time it's played.
I can agree with abou anything said in this video. Couple days ago, I went shopping for SG 61 reissue. Ive tried couple and they are all wildly differret. So I went with the one, that speaked to me the best. Interestingly, it was the lightest one of the bunch, even I typicaly like heavier guitars better.
I am sort of with Rhett on this, but I have a PRS DGT on pre-order, I love the gold top DGT for the sound and also the fact you can get one without bird inlays, just normal dots.
the reason I don't do the PRS thing is I don't like the colours and flame type finishes or the bird inlays, too ostentatious for me. I do like the shapes but id like more options in block colours or sunbursts with dot inlays, and maybe some P90 options. Like the Robben Ford signature recently released, but with dots, not birds. That was a thing of beauty.
Guitars are like paintbrushes - some are more well suited to certain tasks than others with some overlap in between based on techniques. When I was selling guitars at the store I'd ask; "who are your influences? What styles are you interested in playing?" These have a lot to do with guitar choice as well. My best advice was that if you are truly serious about playing buy the best guitar you can afford because they have better construction, necks, tuning machines and pickups. This is a great conversation in this video. 👍
This is a good video. I am watching for a second time. Great guitar playing from the both of you. Beautiful guitars as well. Both PRS and the R9. Well done boiz.
When I was searching for a R9 I found one that didn't sell. It was hanging in the shop for 2 years. Maybe because it didn't had this super pretty deck. But as soon I compared it to the other 15 posh guitars, that R9 stood out, by far.
While I like the PRS more because I like the quality and hearing each note, I absolutely understand the connection. When I went searching for a trumpet. I played many and it was this 1 Bach Stradivarius and each one is different and it’s almost like it chooses you.
Really appreciate you doing this follow up video. It now feels like you gave PRS a fair review. Comparing every PRS to the absolute best guitar Gibson makes (LP R9) is a interesting bench mark. The Gibson tone is crazy good. Great video!
I just picked up a PRS Special semi hollow this week as a bit of a treat for my 30th Birthday this year, it’s my first “big boy” PRS and my God! What an instrument! I have an R8, tele, Strat and a 64’ 335 and they all have their own thing going on but love that I can get pretty much all the other sounds from the PRS with the pickup configuration and switching options 👌 Got my first band practice with it tomorrow night and can’t wait! 🎸 🤘
Great video... here's my personal take. I love (and own) Gibson guitars, but I also have the PRS Custom 24 10 Top / 20th Anniversary. Quick story... back in 2005 (when I bought the PRS) I REALLY wanted a black Les Paul Supreme. I bought one at the Nashville GC even though it had some red flags / playing flaws (I thought I'd just bring it to a luthier) but ended up at the Atlanta GC upon their agreement to "swap" it for the same one in their store. Funny thing, it had the SAME issues. (So much for "they're all different" ... at least in my case.) Issues were string spacing on the PLASTIC nut (high E falling off the edge of the fret board when pressing down too hard - no other guitar has ever done that for me), and poor ability to stay in tune. That's a lot to suffer at that price - around $3K in 2005. At both stores, I had played the PRS (with no previous exposure except for reputation) and was blown away the meticulous quality. In the end, I left the Atlanta store with the PRS. I still have it and it's still an amazing instrument. The upshot is Gibson and PRS can co-exist nicely and meet the demands of specific players, as this video proved.
The import version of the 85/15 and tci pickups are also excellent for that low volume touch sensitivity you're showing off with the Paul's guitar. Grab a set for $100 off reverb, throw them in a guitar you love and have an amazing sounding prs hybrid imo
loved this one! I feel this is a good video for Rhett to make and watch. Its important to realize what our blind spot is. Sometimes, we find a LOT that we want in there. We just didn’t know it was there. I cant wait to see what happens 3-5 yrs from now in Rhett’s mentality.
I think a large amount of us would LOVE to see an actual blindfold test.
I think the feel would give it away. Really hard to do
@@joshphillips9033 Not if they have someone else play and he's blindfolded... like they do on Anderton's. Take the feel away from the blindfold test. Otherwise, yeah. You're right.
This. $10 says he can’t even tell the difference despite claiming his Gibson is miles better in tone.
Rhett would know immediately. I wouldn’t.
@@matthewbricker3236 bro they sound way different. but this wasn't a "fair" comparison, because he had month old strings that he's played a lot on the gibson, which surprises me. Not sure why someone with the means wouldn't want to either change their strings once a week or two, or else use coated strings that can do a month or two without much change. the coated strings usually have a little less bite and sizzle on top, which I often find as a bonus, but hands down they feel better to play IMO. non-coated strings only feel that way for a day or two and then there is no comparison, the coated strings feel like butter.
his LP would have had significantly more high end with new strings, then the comparison would be totally different... but mostly this was a pickup comparison not a guitar comparison (when it comes to tone, not feel of course). I def. prefer the articulation and clarity of the PRS pickups vs those particular gibson pickups which sound muddy in the low end. totally different mid character too... the PRS is more balanced and consistent whereas the gibson pickups have some peaks in their frequency response which apparently Rhett likes.
I totally see your perspective. I would love to live in a place with many huge guitar shops with used instruments where you can just try stuff and browse. Nothing like that is available where I live :( so I love that with PRS I can order a guitar and I know exactly what I will get.
Yeah Im terrible at comparing guitar sounds, equipment, etc. Never had the money to buy and try alot of different guitars, so these videos are super insightful for when I do in the future 🎸
I’m glad to see Rhett expanded more on his opinion regarding PRS guitars. I usually don’t care for PRS guitars myself, but I came across an S2 Vela with a Cherry satin finish at Sweetwater last week. And man, that was a trip for me. I couldn’t afford it, but I have a new dream guitar in mind.
To each their own!
I have had my fair share of experience with PRS. It truly is a fun and simply high-end quality sort of instrument. Of course, I am open to all guitars.
The PRS is newer, and kicks ass!!
The LP is tradition, and also kicks ass!!
I have both!! I love them all!!
Interesting Vid. I had a well used PRS - old one 22 Custom with a crazy blue AAAA-Top. No birds, just moons. Dragon pickups. The sound was great and the feel was absolute fine. I played it 16 years! I have to admit, that I rarely used the bridge pickup, and never split the humbucker into a single coil (I'm playing mainly Rock and Blues by the way). When I got my 1983 Gibson LesPaul, black, original ... I hardly played my PRS any more. I didn't notice it at first. But then, every time I would play somewhere (evan at home), I would pick up the black, old LP. Finally I sold the PRS for the same price to its original owner 16 years later. I find the tone of the LP more alive, bit les transparent, but not smushy at all. I think, the PRS had all the frequencies well balanced and nicely put in order. You can do almost any thing with it ... and there is the thing: Has hardly it's "own" character. You don't say about a PRS: "MY GUITAR IS UNIQUE AND, SHE JUST SINGS TO ME!" They are great instruments, staying in tune like no other guitar i know. But for me, I pick up my LesPaul and get a smile on my face. I do have other guitars - an original Tele and some other, next to a second LesPaul from `87. But I am selling this LP too, because: It doesn't sing to me, like MY GUITAR. I wish it would be not black, but would have a nice nitro covered flame top. But hey, SHE SINGS TO ME! Thank you Rhett for your effort you put into this channel. Rob
I have been a les Paul player since 2004, I always played Strats also, but aspired to have a Gibson les Paul, since then I grew my collection to a studio, traditional, and a standard model. I picked up a 2022 594 single cut core and sold all my Gibsons and bought a second SC 594 core 10 top. Wow, they are better in every way, The build quality is night and day, the single coil tap sounds believable, the neck carve is perfect, the fret work is perfect, it stays in tune for an entire gig.
I think if we're honest with ourselves we can say that guitars are not all just "sound". Its "vibe", its looks, its a lot of feel, its what you feel like when you play it, especially if you are on a stage in front of a lot of people. It's also brand heritage. I completely agree with Rhett and I don't think I'd ever buy a PRS because of a lack of character and personality. Also lemme say I'm really glad Rhett can do his channel and still have an opinion!
It does have character and personality if p[eeps can take the nostalgia classic rock blinders off. Its got its own sound and personality and doesn't sound like other guitars and I appreciate that. I dig its more Hi-fi sound where note clarity is just so clean and clear, theres new sonic territory to explore. Unless you want every guitar to sound like only classic guitars. And I say this as someone who hated PRS for over 15 years just due to some of the bands they were associated with and price. It wasn't until i tired a PRS SE recently and was blown away by how amazing the quality of that guitar was for the price, the neck and feel was absolutely amazing. Punched well above its weight. Got that and sold it so I could get a CE24. My main guitars have been a fender strat, Jazzmaster, epiphone sheraton and Gibson les paul and each of them has their sound and personality. To each their own though.
PRS don't have character and personality?
that's an odd statement especially considering you're saying this about PRS compared to the most boring overused clichéd guitar body I can think of.
tonewise? PRS can deliver LP sound, but I don't think the other way around is achievable.
I want to see Rhett do a blindfold test with a bunch of guitars. It would be nice to see what he thinks without knowing it is a PRS.
I think he would know immediately from the neck radius alone…now, between different levels of LP or even a modded Chibson, that would be cool!
@@kbrown649 It would require him to just listen somebody else play, not play them himself. As that would of course give it away.
Bro he is constantly telling us that he doesn't like the feel of PRS. So it doesn't matter if he can differentiate between the two, the feel( neckradious, weight etc.) will remain the same
@@element4element4 exactly
I have found that the PRS guitars I've played are terrific guitars for sessions and backing support gigs, where a 'commercial' tone is required. However, for my own music, my ear tunes to the relatively unique characteristics and tones of my Gibson's for finding a more personal, artistic, sound/tone.
As a long time viewer, one of the things I appreciate most is how thoughtful and intentional RS is when he says “this is a great piece of gear” or “this is a lifer”. There’s a ton of UA-camrs who get a new amp/guitar and post videos talking about how great it is and it’s the dream piece of gear, then weeks later they’re making another video about how they’ve decided to move it on to chase something else and that they never really connected with that piece of gear. It lets me know if Rhett really digs something it’s not just hype, and it also helps reframe that mindset of “GAS” and not needing to buy/sell/trade for the newest thing we start to have an itch for. Trust me I’m guilty of chasing hype just like any of us, but seeing Rhett’s position helps ground us sometimes in terms of not always needing to grab everything cool.
I'm with you on the look/vibe of PRS guitars in general... it's not a deal-breaker, but describing it as an uphill battle is spot on (and I've never played a PRS that has overcome that hill). Honest to goodness, I'm happy for anyone who finds a guitar that inspires them to play... PRS guitars just haven't done that for me.
Absolutely love that you're willing to make two videos about a guitar brand that you're not nuts about... being open to the possibility of change is how we grow as individuals!
Lost it at "Let's go to the Tony The Tiger"!
Agree. I can’t stand the modern guitar look and feel. I’ve heard that the quality control is great on these guitars but I just don’t think they’re the guitars for me.
What were the mods done to the Vela that Zach mentioned? Just want to understand my expectations from one that might be stock vs the one here.
Love this video, great breakdown and not easy comparison PRS vs Gibson, love both brands
I like how you guys were able to dilute it down to searching for a soulmate vs asking out a cheerleader. What I found interesting as well, is that I tend towards Gibsons yet, all my guitars found me. They all have crazey or sentimental stories.
I didnt immediately love my 90s CE24... but as i used it more in bands, recordings, and other musical situations i really bonded w/ it. The thing just works EVERYTIME lmao.
Also palming the bridge is rad 😏
ultimately, you nailed the build ethos for each. As an owner of a number of Gibsons, and a few PRS', I totally agree with your summation! PRS is intentionally built to be consistent, high quality instruments. Does that leave out some "soul"? Maybe, although that's pretty esoteric...
I like both, but for different reasons, and more often than not, a Les Paul is my go-to guitar. However, I would be much more likely to buy a PRS on the internet than a Les Paul, for the reasons you point out.
Good video, I like the back and forth and the honest discussion and demo!
Having almost zero variation from guitar to guitar, it’s called QUALITY. What Rhett explains about his Les Paul, having to look for several guitars to finally finding a good one is more like stating that Gibson guitars are made poorly, with almost no quality control and you need a lot of luck to find a decent one. That’s terrible and true about Gibson these days. And I am a Gibson collector, I have eight (1966 ES330, 1972 SG De Luxe, 1979 GK-55,1980 Les Paul Deluxe, 1987 Les Paul Custom, 1994 Les Paul Studio, 2004 Les Paul Std R0, 2007 Les Paul DC) andI love each one of them, they are fantastic guitars that I kept after more thaN 30 went through my paws for almost 35 years; but also I have two PRS (2002 PRS Custom 24, 2006 McCarty std mahogany ) and all can say they are the best guitars made currently. You will not make a mistake with a PRS.
I'm a drummer myself but I like guitars, and I like guitar players. I find it fascinating how guitar players geek out over small differences only they can hear and feel. If Rhett only had one guitar to play for the rest of his life, and it was the PRS he'd love it and get everything out of it possible. Good playing and fun video.
Same way us drummers geek out over the so-called sonic differences with Ludwig vs Tama vs Pearl drums, Zildjian vs Paiste vs Sabian cymbals, Remo vs Evans heads, Vic Firth vs Pro Mark vs Regal Tip sticks, and so on.
Guitar player here. Genuinely curious. Aren't drummers the same way with their drums/sticks etc? Maybe all musicians? Granted some musicians a little more so than others. Some instruments more so than others. But still don't we all do that? Kinda makes hunting for an instrument both simultaneously fun and frustrating. I normally do a lot of research before buying anything. Then after narrowing it down to a handful of choices, I go to several stores and try each one countless of times until I no longer know what I want or until I've become convinced of the one that speaks most to me. Would love to hear your take.
@@shadowboxer9757 Wait, are you saying that drummers are musicians? Did I read that right? 🤣 JK!
Yep! These guys have to play with less gain first. Let's hear all these guitars at moderate volume and then see. Then, do whatever they want. But The Hollowbody PRS's are definitely interesting to my ears.
My drummer used to give me crap if I didn’t bring my PRS. I played Les Pauls for a long time but as soon as I got my PRS he wanted me to use it all the time.
“Hifi” is a super accurate description. Which is why I love them for high gain they stay articulate. Probably explains why I love Hughes and Kettner and G&L as well. They are described as HiFi as well. I personally like mixing hifi/modern and vintage/traditional stuff together. It’s fun and you get unique tones all your own imho. Vintage or new. Modern or traditional don’t care if it’s good and I connect with it I buy it. Everyone should do the same. Don’t listen to anyone else’s opinion. Play everything you can and find what fits and inspires you.
I bought a PRS and tried to love it, but it went back before the 30 day return window. That was years ago, now I’m on the hunt for a Les paul, and hearing the difference between them validates my decision. Thanks !
Man that last one has to be one of the best sounding guitars I’ve ever heard. Very well balanced sound. And this comment comes from a guys who doesn’t really like PRS but for some reason lately I’ve been kinda curious about PRS it might come from the fact that this was a brand that I never really thought of, like…I cannot find a connection with. But I’ve been watching some videos and I’ve been thinking this guitars are way more good and versatile than I thought . Something is calling me in this guitars. Great video guys!!
I love both my PRS S2's. McCarty 594 and Vela. If they ever decide to make an S2 Paul's guitar, I'm all in!
I picked up an SE Paul's guitar and love it.
The amp in the room changed the equation. Especially through the Tweed, the PRS’s have more definition. Through a brighter, tighter amp…?
The McCarty 594 Hollowbody is a drool machine 🤤 Ticks all the boxes for me in this little competition! Definitely the closest in sound to the LP?
I have never purchased a guitar that I have not spent a lot of time in the shop playing first. The instrument needs to speak to me. I have to love the interaction between my hands and my ears when playing it. I like playing the few PRS guitars I have tried but those instruments never asked me to take them home. The search continues for another instrument, and I am enjoying the search as there are so many well-made guitars out there at many different price points.
Years back, I tried a Brett Mason Signature. Beautiful fit and finish but sterile in that I could not detect a distinct character difference when trying different pick-up positions and tone knob twiddling.
The Vela is the guitar that just pushes so many buttons that the rest of the PRS line doesn't. I had a SE Standard 24 for awhile, and while I admit it just didn't push all my buttons, the fit & finish on it was so good I was intrigued about PRS guitars. Eventually I got my hands on a Vela, and it's turned into my #1 guitar because it has all the ease of play of a PRS (neck shape, fit & finish) but there's so much more to explore tonally.
YES. The Vela is the anti-PRS PRS. Aside from having ALL of the quality that PRS is known for, it is the polar opposite of what people think of when they think of PRS. No crazy flame maple top, no bird inlays, no ultra glossy finish. Instead, it has a heaping dollop of character and mojo. Especially the satin ones. One of the most slept on guitars out there.
@@Plexi417 I looooove my satin Vela for all of the reason y’all have discussed. It’s just different.
I feel the same about the S2 studio-it’s like a Vela but with a mid pickup and vibrato
I DESPERATELY want a Vela. Easily the coolest design PRS has ever conceived.
@@DiscoScottie I agree
I went to a local shop and played 1/2 dozen Silver Sky models. All of them were exactly as Rhett said - same feel, same sound. Then, I picked up the last one. It was unbelievable. They were all excellent, but the one I walked out with was other worldly in terms of sound and feel. I know that shouldn’t be the case, but it was. And everyone in the room could hear the difference too.
They prob just said that because they were bored of you trying the guitars and as soon as you said you liked one, they agreed with you
@@davidtomkins4242 That's exactly what happened. Thanks for saying it so I didnt have to lol.
@@davidtomkins4242 lmfaooooooooo. Imagine having a room full of people (in a guitar store setting nonetheless) that have a critical enough ear to hear the difference between two Silver Sky's. Love my Silver Sky though, glad you found one you connected with.
I had the same experience with a DGT. Tried about a dozen, didn’t like any of them. They all felt different, played different, sounded different. I was totally convinced a DGT was not for me. Then they said, “what about the white one?” I don’t like white on a guitar. But I tried it. It was the one. I left with the white guitar. Everything about except the color was there.
“… then I got home and realized the Silver Sky I really liked was a Strat” 😂
I've always been partial to the sound and tonal qualities of the PRS. I've owned mine since 1999. At the time, mine was probably a mid to upper tier model. Their lineup has changed a bit since then to include a lot more entry level guitars, so I don't know where mine would stand today. Having said that, I've always loved the tone and playability of it. I used to have a Jackson Dinky and it wasn't even a fair fight when comparing the two, but even the Jackson had its uses.
Listening to the Les Paul and PRS back to back, you can definitely hear differences in their sound. I think Rhett summed it up perfectly at the end. You just need to find the guitar that speaks to you. For him, that's the Les Paul.
Maybe the two companies should get together and make a Les Paul Reed Smith mashup guitar. That'd be SICK.
Rhett’s R9 sounds phenomenal!
Excellent shootout. What you guys didn't discuss is ergonomics. While I prefer the tone and vibe of a Gibson, PRS bodies are usually way more comfortable. They're designed to fit your body like a glove. I've had to sell Les Pauls because they were so bottom-heavy or top heavy--like SGs. Also you guys didn't discuss tune-ability. While my 2021 Les Paul JR stays in tune for hours, I have owned other LPs that would not. But all the PRS's I've ever owned stayed in perfect tune always. So there's that to consider.
Ergonomics are not great on either, unless you go with the LP HP or LP Axcess.
What's strange about PRS is that the lower they cost they have more comfortable top carves.
The core models top carves are actually far worse comfort wise than an S2 or an SE. But they look good on photos, right?
I have a 94' CE22 (back when they were still core models with a one piece bolt on maple neck) with Dragon Is and that guitars is real beast.
I used to feel the same way you do about PRS. Then in LA one day, I got my hands on a wood library model that was custom spec'd by the dealer. Custom 24, Ash body, Maple top, /m\ pickups, roasted maple neck, cocobolo fretboard. It wasn't one of the "cookie cutter models" so to say. Connected with it instantly. Since then, I've still never fallen in love with a normal core model, but I ended up buying 3 more wood library models over the next year because they were THAT much better. I think one day you will find one you love, but it just hasn't happened, yet. I feel like we are being setup for a video where Paul invites you to the factory and custom specs you a wood library model, you get it months later and love it.
Yes. We're definitely being set up for the video where he buys a PRS. It's all about the views.
Les Paul's sound great, and love the playing experience when I find a light weight one. What I like more about the PRS is the clarity and wide tone spectrum. I find it much easier to make a PRS sound like a LP (when necessary), but have a much harder time changing the sound of a LP. Of course the tone in my head that I'm always chasing has a lot to do with that too. One thing that's undeniable: your LP is a beautiful guitar! Congrats on finding your "one"!
The last Guitar is beautiful always felt that way must self I agree with your feeling Rhett and I’am own my Gibson Les Paul Standard as well and yours is Excellent I did noticed your sound your playing Gibson for me Rules !!! Respect.
Wow. That was so well done. Given that concepts like feel and vibe are very personal, you guys did a fantastic job of explaining your likes and dislikes. I came away with a sense that I finally understand why many people get so excited about PRS guitars.
I agree 100%. If Rhett really tries he can probably get as nice of a sound from his Les Paul as he got from the "Tiger".
This whole thing reminds me of the burger contest on Parks and Rec. Chris Traeger presented the “Asian fusion burger made with black truffle aioli and micro greens on a gluten free bun.” Everyone is wowed by the presentation and say it’s great. Then Ron Swanson presents “a hamburger made of meat on a bun with nothing.” Everyone immediately says “never mind, this one is better.”
The PRS looks great, you guys play it and I think it sounds great. Then you hit the R9 and I’m like “oh, that’s the sound.”
Gotta say I’m definitely with you on this Rhett. I’ve tried so many PRS guitars over the years (especially when I was playing in cover bands trying to cover a LOT of tones with 1 guitar) and could just never get with them. I’m not even sure why. I eventually gave up. They are undeniably well made so it’s not a diss in anyway just not for me 🤷🏼
Have not even finished watching this and I just got Goose bumps Rhett when you strummed it instantaneously!!! WOW I have to now continue with your video lol
As with all makes and models, these are natural products, and there is a high degree of variability from instrument to instrument. As Rhett said with the Lester, you gotta hunt for the right ones. I have 2 PRSs and 2 Les Pauls (among many others) that would all equally blow your mind.
This seems like a perfect example of how aesthetics are so darn subjective. No one is wrong here. And despite the similarities, they each prefer something a little different. But, there were a few magic moments, where you could see one of them digging what the other was doing on a given guitar, and then seemingly being disappointed when they tried the guitar themselves. The little things matter so much. Which little thing just depends on the individual. I'm grateful for variety. In people, AND guitars 😁 Fun video!
They sound like a really good choice for the lefties out here. We go to a shop and, usually, there are like 3 guitars for us to choose from. So, not so easy to play a whole load until you find "the one". Good to know that if I'm lucky enough to find a shop with a lefty PRS, then I'm getting (probably) as good a guitar as any other PRS of the same model.
The Les Paul is like a vintage Levi’s denim jacket and the PRS is like a new Banana Republic shirt.
Rhett, thanks for doing this. I can now forget about maybe finding a PRS that I like and move on with my life.
I've been trying to find the words to describe my feelings about PRS guitars for years and I never could. You nailed it. They are so consistent that they are almost lifeless. They are gorgeous works of art, but I've never played one that did anything for me. I have friends that have several incredible examples of what PRS is capable of, but I cant play them. I have Japanese Les Paul copies that are just so full of life and mojo that I would take them over almost anything else because as you said, they speak to me.
One of the best Les Pauls I've ever owned/played was a Japanese Crews Maniac KTR. What a freakin amazing guitar for the money!
That's how I feel about Taylor Acoustics.
Japanese guitars are just the best to me. It might be a placebo or it really is like that. I have a 1975 pre-lawsuit Japanese Ibanez les paul with super 70s pickups and it is the best playing and sounding Les paul to me. I heard good things from other Japanese (copies) brands like Tokai, Edwards, Yamaha etc
Both sound great when each of you play them. I totally agree that the guitar needs to have the sound you like. I have had several Les Paul's, some sounded better than others, some weighed 1000 Pounds, I now have 2 I really like, and don't need another guitar, but... I have 21 now... Everyone needs to play what they like... Love your stuff, keep up the AWESOME work 👍👍👍👍
There were a few times that Rhett played a PRS after the les Paul and I thought "oh, I like that better." But I have and play a Vela, an old Hollowbody 2, and SE Tim Mahoney, a LPDC with Thornbuckers, and a 335 with low output Fralins. I guess I like clarity!? I've never found a Les Paul with that clarity! Thanks Rhett, good comparison.