I'm Done Buying New PRS Guitars...Here's Why
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- Опубліковано 24 лис 2024
- Today we take a look at why I will most likely never buy a brand new PRS Guitar again …
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My name is Zachary Seif, and I am a professional guitarist from the NYC Metro Area. I teach private lessons, perform in multiple bands, do session work and am the Artist Relations Manager for Quantum Industries. Come join me as I show you what being in the music industry is like on a regular basis.
GEAR USED IN THE VIDEO:
PRS Custom 24-08
Audio Technica AT2020
Focusrite 18i20
All video shot on my iPhone 12 Pro Max
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Facebook: / zack.seif
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Background music provided by Bensounds
There is no actual proof that lacquer sounds any different than urethane. It has to do with the thickness of the finish. Lacquer does not breath, it is a sealer just like poly. It was designed to keep car bodies from rusting by sealing out air. Yes it is softer than poly and is more easily damaged. Personally given the same thickness, poly being harder should have LESS dampening effect on wood resonance, something to think about! Poly does protect the guitar much better. Lacquer spays very thin and poly very thick. Lacquer takes many coats, when poly first came out people sprayed it like lacquer making finishes way to thick and it got a bad rep. Paul's poly is very thin so I think going to lacquer is not good. He is just yielding to market pressure. For awhile we had people that said the wood had no affect on an electric guitar, I totally disagree, but guarantee the same guitar finished in the same thickness, NO ONE can hear a difference in lacquer or urethane.
I agree. PRS has historically used the thinnest finishes and they all sound and breath the same.
@@donaldjuan4934 Wood again? I thought that finally was settled. I agree lac or poly won't matter but thickness does.and yes different woods DO yield different character to the tone. Tone wood is a bad term as some might prefer plywood. Anything that affects the strings vibration affects tone, simple physics.
I refinished 5 guitars from poly to nitro. The difference was always CONSIDERABLE. It opens tone, bumps high-mid tone range, cuts down annoying highs. Poly is used out of manufacturer's laziness, not because it's better. In fact, poly is such a crap that I was convinced as a child that electric guitars were made of plastic - cause they looked like toys from toys r us (majority of guitar brands only used poly in 90s).
Nitro is tricky to work with. The instrument gets a more woodier character. If you can't hear it, stick with poly.
Wood can only impact the sustain... but not the way it sounds.
@@DamianSieradzki I agree but sustain is part of how it sounds. So if it affects how long the strings vibrate, it can also affect how they vibrate. Different woods can react differently to diff freq., dampening some and reflecting back to the strings others. True the PU imparts much of the tone but that is affected by how the string is vibrating. I've had many guitars over the years with many, many PU and hardware combo's and the only ones I've really liked the tone of is mohag with maple cap.
Cry about it… After you get a good cry in you might start to appreciate that guitars journey. All I heard was I play this guitar alot and it’s worn…
Yeah the wear and tear is a badge of pride for a wooden instrument that has been played, from a violin to an acoustic guitar. Personally I don't want an indestructible plastic coated guitar.
Fair enough.
You can say that about vintage guitars, but a 3 year old guitar?? It doesn't even have a journey yet. All I hear was why would they use a finish that age way quicker than others. basically makes it artificial
I’m probably the odd man here but I love it… it looks killer to me. Nitro is definitely different than poly. My 59 reissue looks like your PRS and I’m easy on it as well. There is nothing cooler than seeing your guitar age rather than a relic job at the factory
I can agree with that, just didn’t expect it to happen so early on ya know? A lot of guitars that we see replicated and relic’d are from the 50s and 60s, not 2019.
@@ZackSeifMusic yeah but they've been chipped and dinged since the 70s. They weren't pristine until yesterday. Is your guitar a nitro finish by any chance?
@@ZackSeifMusic EXACTOMO! that would be Audrey Hepburn`s line here!!! in the summertime in me humble apartemento in Finland the heat is on, ha : 26 Celcius morn til nite, and my Yamaha strats right side sweats with my forearm...: after many summers no sign of Rory Gallagher-swear-wear yet!!
THIS 4000€/£/$ PRS guitar seems to me a very bad joke!! I am sad for your sake!
Hey, I suggest reaching out to PRS support with concerns. To the best of my knowledge, support is super responsive and always interested in player's feedback. A dealer had me send one of my guitars back to PRS years ago to look at a few things... Was the best service and response I've ever received. That was my experience, may not be the same for everyone, but I think it's worth it to send an email to them. Just my unsolicited 2 cents.
Sounds like a good idea, appreciate it Steven.
I've had horrible finish problems on my 2021 Core and sent it to PRS to see if it was a problem the warranty may resolve. It isn't covered. No finish issues are, they quoted me something around $2,000 for a refinish. No thanks
I picked up a Hollowbody II Piezo SE 2020 model that was used for 3 monrhs but mint, and I couldn't find a flaw on it. It was used in the studio only so I guess that's why. I played the heck out it for 9 months and took it everywhere, the MD shore, Killington VT in January, 22 trips in total and maybe 600 hours total. I sold it recently to get a LP Standard and it was in mint condition with only a tiny 1/8" light scratch by the Piezo input jack. I'm thinking it was an all-poly finish so maybe that's more durable than the Core version.
@@RockItTeer yeah their pricing is unreal
@@paulhendershott667 funny enough, playing Wobbly Barn in Killington was where I got my first bit of finish checking on this guitar! I was there in November 2021, and when I got home I noticed the spider webbing near the neck joint.
The one thing I wish PRS would do is SS frets... I have multiple high end guitars. All of the modern ones have SS frets. They're going to last forever and bend easily. If I wanted vintage frets I'd buy an LP. I tend to prefer nitro, but agreed you should get an option to purchase poly. I bought 4 wood library PRS's in the last year, I probably won't buy anymore just due to price alone.
I totally agree with everything you are saying.
Paul won’t use SS. He claims they change the tone for the worse. I think he’s wrong as do most people.
The only reason you would need stainless steel frets is if you play the same guitar hard everyday for like 20 years. If you have multiple and the guitar doesn't get overly played a lot then it's fine. Doesn't need them.
@@brandonbock4763 I think Mr. Smith is right. I only have one guitar with SS frets, and it sounds harsh compared to the identical model it replaced. My guitar tech said it was the SS fret wire, which I found hard to believe. So we swaped the necks (bolt on), it WAS the fret wire.
@@adrianguggisberg3656 there is a difference, but it is so miniscule and so easily changed by just about every other part of the guitar, like the tone knob. there is a difference, but there's just not enough significance to justify *not* doing them now
4000 dollars is a ridiculous sum to spend on any new guitar period.
Unless you have the money .
The reason I avoided PRS was because of the poly finishes. I'm actually picking a 2022 Custom 24 up tomorrow, which will be my first PRS. I'm delighted they've 'gone nitro' and I look forward to it growing old with me and looking as beat up as I do!
It will look beat up, I wish mine was poly
@@jukeboxjohnnieagreed. I prefer poly and im reluctant to spend a ton of $$$ on a PRS unless i can order a private stock version and specify that I want a poly clear coat otherwise im not going to bother.
To each their own! If it's the guitar you play most often, chips & dents happen no matter how careful you are. Consider them a badge of honor!
They are definitely badges of honor, just didn’t expect them so soon haha
2:32 ya dummy
The easy chipping and dinging is just the nature of nitrocellulose lacquer and doesn't have anything to do with the quality per se. Just a thought about price: a nitro finish is harder to do properly, takes longer than a poly finish and hence, is also more expensive to do. So, you are paying a premium for nitro even though it is a finish that gets beat up much quicker than poly
Which is something I don’t care for personally. I think it should be an option, otherwise everyone ends up paying more for something that depreciates faster. And while I’m not a collector I do believe that the more you pay the better the quality should be, as well as the more longevity should get from the tool.
@@ZackSeifMusicagreed. Even though this video is a year old and Ive just only seen it now it’s a concern.
Allmy guitars have a poly clear coat and I prefer that. I’m not interested in a guitar that ages because it has a nitro finish. I don’t want it to age and if I accidentally ding/dent my poly guitars then so be it but poly is a lot more durable than nitro.
Cheers from NZ 😎🎸🤘
Yes, stainless steel frets will last longer.
Nitro, is universally considered better for the resonance of the instrument, compared to catalysed, or Poly finishing, and it’s what most people expect/want. Nitro is more susceptible to Patina, and wear, but the some of the dents on you guitar appear to be quite deep, and therefore no reflection of the craftsmanship or quality of the instrument, and more the result of individual circumstances/impact, that would have resulted in the same outcome on other expensive guitars with the same finish. As you said on an Instagram post about this specific guitar, it ‘has seen well over 100 rehearsals and shows’. That statement pretty much explains/answers your concerns.
I'll never understand why you'd want your guitar to look beat up. "it tells a story" well read a book then?? It's so dumb using a finish for it to age quicker
Well nitro finishes are known to wear that's why people like it.
how about frets rust after 2 years! in a 4000 buck PRS?
Hi, I also bought PRS custom 24 2019 model. I paid 3800€ and after two years of playing guitar is like yours, noticed freet wear, and the finish is super sensitive. I was also disappointed with their quality control and support.. They forgot to solder the bridge pickup on a 5-way switch, so the guitar suddenly died. When I took picture inside unsoldered pickup and tell them that they forgot to solder the answer "great that you fixed it, knowledge is power"... that's it. Maybe I'm to sensitive, but I expected some kind of apology or sorry we will send you t-shirt, or something at the end I have to save money for a long time before I could afford it.
Yeah I’m a bit disappointed overall at the longevity of the guitar especially since I have other guitars I’ve toured or owned for longer that are in much better shape.
I would feel the same way! But I wouldn’t necessarily consider PRS a “modern “ guitar as it lacks the SS frets, poly finish, etc. They seem to be reaching for a more vintage ideal. And I wonder if a similarly priced custom shop strat with a nitro finish and nickel frets would show similar wear so soon?
I owned a CS Strat and it played great. Mine was already heavily aged when I got it though so I couldn’t tell you unfortunately.
@@ZackSeifMusic Thanks! That's a good point - typical relicing of the CS strats does make it hard to use as a comparison. I was really just curious about how other new, similarly priced instruments built using "vintage" specs might hold up to frequent gigging/traveling
I was wondering the same this. Would a Gibson have the same level of damage because I bet is it would, or possibly worse.
I completely agree!! Spending $4000 to $5000 on a guitar just to have it deteriorate that fast wouldn’t just break my heart it would pizz me off!!
I agree with you man. Folks can say what they want about it being "a tool and not a museum piece," but when it comes right down to it part of the appeal of PRS guitars for ME is that they are beautiful-looking. If I've had the thing for several years I can deal with a little wear, but anything THAT expensive should be expected to hold up a bit longer.
100% agree!!!
You have to accept that nitro is softer than poly - that's just the way it is. PRS also apply their nitro very thinly to give their guitars more resonance. However, nitro wears more smoothly in my opinion. Whereas poly chips and looks ugly, plus it leaves sharp edges when it does so. I have an early DGT that's nitro and it's wearing/fading very nicely through normal use. I also have a poly 513 that has chipped/flaked in places and I've had to lightly sand those areas to avoid the sharp edges (along the edge of the neck for example where the poly has lifted), which in turn will chip further or cause you damage if you catch them. So, for me it's nitro every time.
I see your point about the fret wear but changing your frets to stainless will change the tone of the guitar significantly...which you may or may not like.
The problem is that it wasn’t disclosed that with was a CAB/Nitro finish because they were transitioning during 2019 so it’s literally impossible to know until now. Pretty disappointing in my opinion.
@@ZackSeifMusic Normally you can smell if it's nitro (think Pear Drops).
Coincidentally, I had completely ruled out PRS because I assumed the finish was too tough, would not "relic" naturally like a classic nitro finish, and basically last like a poly finish would. If it wears this fast, I might actually consider PRS again. From what I was reading on forums, their new CAB over Nitro is extremely durable. So there's a good chance this example is just an anomaly.
PRS finishes have historically been very thin (only a few human hairs thick). Guitars made post 2019 will wear faster.
@@ZackSeifMusic
The V12 finish was super thin, prior to that it was thicker. My 2001 McCarty has a heavier finish. It’s not a big deal to me because it’s how a guitar plays that matters to me. The finish is somewhat inconsequential unless having it look like it’s never been played is important.
Not at all, i think they have this philosophy “thin coat = sound great”. I have a 509 WL 2021 flame maple neck and finger board. the wood is puffy because humidity (Thailand). I just refinished the neck with oil now
The guitar that I use and gig everyday is showing wear??? That’s an appeal in my book. The frets being worn out prematurely sucks, but it depends on how you play.
Considering this is the only guitar that I own that has fret wear I am pretty disappointed especially since these guitars now retail for over $4000 and I have guitars that are worth half the price they have better quality fret material.
I bought a 2023 CE24 hollowbody and I’m not impressed, and unfortunately I cannot return it. It does not feel like a $2000 guitar at all. Pickups are almost too clear. Idk feels cheap compared to my 2000 McCarty
As for the frets...you could get a shop to replace it qith stainless. Paul has said himself that PRSs will never be built qith them because Nivkel has "better sound"
Which I really don’t buy into considering my Musicman guitars sound incredible with SS frets.
@@ZackSeifMusic Pretty much everything Paul says is marketing :)
yep i sold my ce24 semi hollow because of the finish marked so so so easily was a joke you just look at it and it would mark etc i sold it because of it. Ive had nitro guitars and still do and they don't mark like the pre did mine was a 2021 model Im with you very disappointed that its that soft.
It's a shame that they switched to Nitro. Their finish was already only 3 human hairs thick to begin with. The guitars they make today aren't meant for gigging :/
I bought a PRS CE right after they first started making bolt on necks. It had the rotary pickup switch and the lever lock tuners. I loved that guitar. It was everything I could ever want in a solid body axe. Sadly I had to sell it. I've played a bunch of new PRS guitars and they just don't cut it. I don't know what they changed but they just don't have the sound that mine did. Sorry, PRS, you lost me.
I loved my 2015 CU24, that was amazing.
My 2010 USA Tremonti has the V12 finish and it is still like new in appearance and I’ve played it a ton over the years. Have they said why they changed to Nitro?
No clue :/ it's always Paul's call though
Same. I love my Tremonti and play it all the time. Still looks brand new ish.
Cheers from NZ 😎🎸🤘
The finish issues you mentioned is why I get used now. My last new guitar was a Gibson CS336. It was a good guitar, but the frets wore out quick and the finish started bubbling. No more new for me. The SS frets (lack of) is an issue for me too. I fret pretty hard. I just bought a used Paul’s guitar and I’m dreading when they wear down. It already happened on my LP R8.
Yeah my 2015 Custom 24 looked better and that one was on a world tour from the previous owner
Helpful video and valid points. I only wish my Les Paul would hurry up and start showing signs of aging and use lol
In due time!!
It's sort of funny that what you're unhappy about is the very thing Gibson enthusiasts love! Put poly finishes on Gibson's and the watch the torch and pitch fork crowd surround the Gibson factory...
But that is the appeal of Gibson and their finishes. PRS weren’t using this finish till recently and it wasn’t well known until after I bought mine.
@@ZackSeifMusic Yes, I agree, that's what why I find this so interesting. Is it that PRS enthusiasts prefer poly finishes over nitro? I don't really know, but one of the criticisms of PRS was that they seem "sterile" compared to nitro finished guitars. I don't necessarily believe that, but it could be a reason PRS decided to change. Until the last few years I really didn't think it was a big deal. Apparently to many players, it is.
@@superlead1002 I think it’s mostly the vintage crowd that prefers nitro. Every company that makes a modern style guitar uses something more durable than Nitro so it’s really only for companies trying to make a vintage spec or looking guitar.
my thoughts exactly. Maybe he should just be a little more careful with his guitar. Who wears belt buckles behind any guitar?
You are absolutly right, well done...!!!
I hope the people at PRS see this video, and give a reaction.
They got back to me saying they do a partial refret at the same price I paid for my full SS refret
Curious to know your feelings on the 2023-24 SE’s
(594, DGT etc)
Thx!
Some of the best import guitars around. Lots of features and tone for the price.
I have a $4,500 PRS, and the entire finish has faded. It looks really unique and cool, but it should not be happening on an instrument of this caliber and price. They should stand by their products 1000%
Totally agree
Water based color and poly clear coat that is the issue. I live in Thailand and most prs core get cloudy, foggy, hazy in 2-3 years. I email prs cs and it is my fault because too humid and too hot in my country..they never says they choose the wrong color type (water base) and coat with polyurethane (thinner), which help keep the humidity inside the wood. Good luck for You american that can easily send it back to refinish, but not for the rest of the world
#1 touring guitar
nitro finish
maybe spec a wood library and get the frets and poly paint you want
They don’t do stainless steel frets at all. I would still have to pay to get that done and that’s not very cheap either.
So unfortunately the only option is to just not buy a PRS brand new again; just have to stick to used models from before 2019.
WL guitars are only for signature dealers unless they've changed something recently. I believe the minimum order is 10, or at least it was when I got my 594 from a run Eddie's did in back in 2017. This isn't the first complaint I've seen on this issue, just saw a couple on the PRS forum this week. PRS has a history of adopting new finish formulas that develop issues not revealed in testing. The V12 finish comes to mind and I believe there was another a few years before that. I'm thankful my 2017 was made during a "good finish" era :)
I love PRS, but, why not stainless steel frets? and also direct mount the pickups and get rid of those rings and gain some improvements in clarity and phasing of strings/pickups resonance.
Agreed 100%
Only thing I agree with is they should have SS frets atleast as an option for the same price. The other points are how you feel and I can respect that.
SS should be standard. It's a better material.
Meanwhile my 93 CU24's finish is so thick and so hard. I've beaten the crap out of the guitar in the years I've had it and there are only a handful of dents/dings.
Yeah it’s crazy. I don’t want an Uber thick finish that cakes over the guitar but this is a bit too little in my opinion.
Isn't the point of nitro to let the wood breathe and also to wear more quickly and naturally?
The tonal difference is definitely debatable. My 2015 Custom 24 sounded just as good as this, and I’ve played Les Pauls that sounded terrible compared to poly coated guitars from other brands. It’s always the sum of the parts, so I don’t buy into the whole “nitro is better” when it’s an objectively terrible finish option. It’s just what they used back in the day and people are afraid of change. Not sure why Paul went to nitro instead of moving forward with something a bit more durable.
I totally agree, buddy that is one of the main reasons why I shy'd away from PRS 5/6 years ago. The price wasn't justified to me anymore. It started when I bought my first 5000 series Ibanez prestiges and that was it for under two grand I suddenly had a guitar with SS frets, one of the best bridge systems, Fishman fluence/bareknuckle pups and a killer guitar overall. I still have my older PRS's and still absolutely love them. I had the same with Caparison guitars btw, price isn't justified anymore
After the last round of inflation PRS priced themselves $1,000 above what I paid for this guitar in 2019 and I would never drop that today. I’ll stick with the used market from now on with PRS.
Kicking around buying a MT 10-top, but not having SS frets is just holding me back. I love SS frets. They're slick and last a really long time.
I have them on everything!!
TBF you should know nitro finishes are not as strong as poly finishes. It’s not some kind of secret.
As I mentioned in the video there was no way of knowing this guitar had a Nitro/CAB finish, as the PRS website states that guitars made in 2019 had both finishes as they slowly transitioned for 2020.
In an electric guitar the only thing that matters is the pickup selection. The science is in on that as far as I am concerned. PRS makes the best guitars and I don’t care about the finish as long as it looks nice. I don’t take the nice stuff out of the house anyway. All that said I don’t generally buy new guitars. There are way too many nice used guitars for half the price.
I own a PRS Wood Library Modern Eagle V with a Nitro Finish. The guitar was manufactured in May of 2023 and I've been using it as my daily driver for practice and jamming. I'm very happy with my purchase and the quality of the instrument. You should expect wear and tear, it's part of owning any guitar, shoes, jeans, etc... The frets will have to be dressed or replaced eventually because yes, PRS uses nickel for their frets. Consider having your fret wire replaced with Jescar or Stainless Steel frets. The nitro finish on my guitar is wearing adequately in the hot spots (arm rest, bridge, neck), and the chrome is starting to show signs of wear. This is nothing to be alarmed by, since it shows precisely how the guitar (or any guitar) is being used by the player.
My friend has two Prs guitars, and loves them very much. The issue that I have seen with them, is they don't seem to stay in tune. I'm not saying that all them are like this, but it's just my experience. Has anyone else seen this?
Typically a new nut and proper setup can alleviate 90% of tuning issues. I found that mine didn't go out of tune any more or less than my other guitars on the road.
Over the last fortnight I've looked at PRS's and Suhrs and ultimately Suhr won out two nights ago. I still want a PRS but the stainless steel frets on the Suhr Standard Legacy I bought are going to last a very, very long time.
SS is the only way to go these days.
Apparently Paul Smith doesn't like the sound of SS frets. Whats the blue trem block ? And where did you get it? Cheers
He doesn't like them despite SS frets being better in every way. The block was 3D printed!
Couldn't agree more SS is incredible stuff, I seen an interview somewhere where he says he doesn't like the sound. Like you say really, no brainer.
More importantly.... where did you get that trem block locker???!!!!
3D printed by my guitar tech
I would be longing/buying new PRS guitar exactly for the things you mention - the easy to wear nitro finish and the lack of stainless steel frets which sound I am not a fan of :)
Then it would be the perfect guitar for you! Seems to check all of the boxes.
@@ZackSeifMusic To be honest I am already looking into getting one :) I have owned two older CE24, but it is not the right model for me.
@@murky9554 I enjoyed my CE as well, but the Custom line just fits better in my opinion.
@@ZackSeifMusic Depends on the player, I don’t actually aim for the Custom :)
I personally hated the old finish. Felt like the South Korean guitars (Samick, Cort, WMI) and certain Japanese ESP brands that are in a candy coated shell of polyester. I don't really mind if it comes off more easily, it feels miles better to me. 🤷
Nothing worse that a guitar that feel like a plastic toy
Some of the most desirable guitars ever like vintage Strats,Teles,Les Pauls,SGs ect all age that way and the wear on them makes them come alive...hence why the relic thing is so popular in how they try to mimic that feel and vibe.There is nothing wrong with maintaining your guitars but understand that a well played and loved guitar will acquire all that patina and character.I own guitars with both Nitro and Poly and love them all but when I see a new ding or wear spot on my Nitro guitar my first thought is 'cool!!'.It doesn't bother me.I don't like my guitars to be trashed either like Rory Gallagher's Strat but some light wear 'in all the right places' is fine with me.Just keep playing your PRS and let it age gracefully....it looks fine in this video.
I’ve got a 94 PRs that’s still absolutely perfect. Couple of very small dings however not bad for 30 year old guitar. Does anyone know kind finish they used back then
Better than what they are using today haha
Im a longtime player of PRS as well. I like the poly finish more as well! Great video man!
Many thanks for watching!
I have 2021 CE24 with nitro on it, and I’m really happy that prs did this transition because I buy all my guitars only with nitro and didn’t buy a PRS before because I hate poly
Glad it worked out for you! Enjoy the new guitar.
A satin urethane wear is actually exactly what I am looking for in a guitar.
Mass production operations are always looking for ways to increase production while reducing costs. And while not all brands are all the same and some prioritize quality more than others, it doesn't surprise me to hear this.
Dude what is that trem block, brilliant piece!
3D Printed!
I like the switch to nitro. It feels better and looks better over time. I know it wears more but that doesn't bother me.
It’s nice to have options in the market
Interesting. I just got a 2017 S2 and was a bit bummed it wasn't nitro, maybe not so much now after seeing this. Out of interest what are you using on the rear of the trem? I'm guessing it's to block it?
It was 3-D printed by my guitar tech.
@@ZackSeifMusic Nice, wish he sold em commercially looks a great idea 👍
Beautiful guitar! I'm curious, did you reach out to PRS and if so, did they responded either way??
Yes I did, and they basically said "nothing we can do except overcharge for a fret dress and level". So I took the guitar to someone to do a full SS refret at almost the same cost and have been using it ever since.
@@ZackSeifMusic that sux! At least you had someone good to take it to. GOD Bless.
One thing to keep in mind is Paul listens to his big money spending fans. They’ve been upset about the poly finish he’s had on the core models for years. They would ding and that ding would chip off the clear coat and go straight to wood. A nitro finish in theory should age in a more appealing way.
I think he is just trying to make his fans happy believe it or not.
And again I don’t fault him for making the guitars that he wants to make. I think this is still the best sounding PRS guitar that I’ve ever owned, however I’m just disappointed at how quickly it’s deteriorating and I feel that they just aren’t built as well as the pre-2019 models with the older poly finishes. They always had such a thin coat of finish (just a couple of human hairs thick), so I don’t understand why the entire lineup needs to be made of nitro considering it’s hell for touring and gigging musicians which are still a good chunk of their customer base.
@@ZackSeifMusic it’s not deteriorating it’s aging, I have a ‘63 Strat and ‘60 Les Paul Special both have well aged nitro finishes, rust on the pole pieces bridges and screws and wear through on the necks, and they look and sound beautiful and are still fully functional with all original parts after 60 years of heavy use. Your PRS is probably better constructed than either of my vintage pieces and will probably outlive you
I happen to agree with him.
Is this really Brandon? The one that I was on the road with all those years?? We were in L.A. in the winter of 81'-82'. Or was it 82-83'?? Then we went to Athens, I think. But you went to Israel with Benamel shortly after.
Nitro is a double edge sword. IME, it's more resonant so in a way, you could say its a sonic upgrade (though I do find poly finishes to be "punchier" or at least, tighter in the low end). On the flip side, the draw back, it is not as durable as poly. But even that has a caveat because though poly is more durable, its chips & dings when blemished... The way poly ages is ugly meanwhile the softer nitro ages more gracefully (and much quicker). No perfection solution but such is life.
That said, I do prefer Nitro finishes on bodies, but I can live with either on a neck, if satin and thin enough. For example, Taylor's finishes on their necks is one of my favorites, a very thin satin poly
The finish does not affect tone, period
I find strange you say "most" builders use SS frets nowadays. That might not be the case. Also, nitro breaks easier, but the only true reason that builders use Poly is because it is easier and cheaper to apply. I own a couple of cool guitars, but Nitro, one has stainless steel. Both superb. PRS guitars are on my radar and I think they are great instruments.
That's crazy, do you know if it has a nitro finish? That's the only explanation for that much wear that quickly. A poly finish would be durable enough to prevent much of that surface wear and even dings as it's much harder than nitro. Just a tip, you might want to get yourself the Stew Mac Color Tone polishing kit. It's 3 bottles of polishing compund that progresses in grit to super fine. It will remove things like buckle rash and and even small gouges in the finish. It makes them invisible basically. I think the kit is around $50 from Stew Mac but you will need a drill and some foam polishing pad drill attachments. I got mine from Amazon for pretty cheap. I use that polishing kit more than I thought I would have. It's definitely worth the investment if you have a bunch of guitars.
Thanks for the tip! I've been looking into buffing and polishing for sure.
We all know that finish and types of wood make no difference in the sound an electric guitar makes coming out of an amp, but it does make a difference in how it vibrates in the hands and against your body, albeit very subtle. Also, most people play their amps at volumes where you can still faintly hear the acoustic properties of the guitar mixed in with the sound of the amp and this can color the sound slightly. Also, you can't deny the psychological aspect where you know you have a specific lacquer or fretboard material or body wood and it changes how you feel about the guitar as well. All this adds up to a definite perceivable difference to the player.
No matter the brand , metal belt buckles , chains , studs and even rivets in jeans don't mix well with wood . It's the players choice how they treat the instrument . Just my opinion . Even a lot of rings will create wear .
Hey Zack! Informative, as always. One question, though - as you flipped the guitar over, there's a blue plastic-ish trem-stopper you've got in there. I've never seen one like that - what brand and model, and what are your pros and cons with it? Thanks!
Hey Ed! Thanks for watching.
It’s a 3-D printed trem block my tech made. They are made to measure as every cavity is different so you’d need to measure your cavity with precision then ask someone with a printer to make it.
@@ZackSeifMusic I had a feeling it was printed. Very cool. My son is getting a 3D printer soon. Maybe I'll do stuff with it while he's at school 🙂
Thanks for the honest review!
You’re very welcome!
One other note, I have scaled back my PRS's to just 3 core 22's from 2009-2010. 1 is lacquer and receives less usage (cause it's my favorite), original 57/08's etc. but has more dings that the 2 poly ones. All sound great. Have an older SE made in Korea one that hangs out by my computer all the time. Grab it for everything except gigs and it's almost spotless.
What is the piece of plastic you use to block the bridge? Have you made it yourself? Thanks!
It’s a 3-D printed Block that my guitar tech made. Since every cavity is different, and people have different set ups and string gauge preferences, you’d have to measure the exact dimensions of your guitar specific cavity in order to get the proper fit.
@@ZackSeifMusic thanks! Great idea!
I dont understand, who was playing the guitar? You right, well i have a 1993 prs custom and i cant seem to see much ageing or dings. That's why the older prs guitars mostly from 1985-1993 are really special.
Different strokes (or coats?), for different folks. Some people prefer nitro vs poly because they want the wear/patina.
Thank you for your video.
I've been thinking of buying a brand new guitar and I really like the PRS SE Custom 24-08 quilt top in faded blue burst finish from Sweetwater. But if your 4-grand guitar has such a fast wear, I don't know what to expect from a $1,049 dollars one. I'm neither rich nor a pro musician, so that amount of money is kind of a luxury for me right now...
Different production lines have different finishes and even 2 of the same model may age differently.
I advise going used so you can save the depreciation and get something that'll last just as long as:)
As a PRS Custom 24 owner, I can strongly relate to this video. BTW, what do you call the plastic piece that you put on back of the trem at @1:35 and where to buy one? Thanks!
It’s a 3-D printed trem block. Since each cavity can vary slightly in size you have to measure the exact dimensions of your trem cavity on both sides of the trem then have someone with the printer make it for you. My tech did mine.
You're not alone or imagining things, I just saw 2 identical complaints on the PRS forum this week. Maybe Paul is trying to sabotage the used market by ensuring they'll all be beat to crap in a year. Sorry to hear this is happening, and that it's not being acknowledged by PRS as a warranty issue :)
Yeah I was a little let down when I read through their warranty. In my opinion their warranty doesn’t cover anything unless it’s somehow defective out of the box.
@@ZackSeifMusicthats exactly how the epiphone warrenties are
Other than the fretwear, I'm good with aging of a guitar--nicks, dings, finish fading and checking etc. All guitars should have stainless frets, I'll give you that.
I'm fine with the wear, it was mostly the frets that bother me the most. But also the fact that PRS didn't tell you if your 2019 model was Poly or Nitro so I had no way of knowing before purchasing as I mentioned throughout the video.
prs makes a guitar that doesnt wear like "classic" fenders did. people complain. prs make a change to paints and finishes and they start to wear quicker. people complain.
the thing i do agree with is the fret wear, they dont have to be stainless (it doesnt bother me what they are made from) but i do agree that i want longer lasting frets
Agreed. 2 years is kinda disappointing for "the strongest nickel" fret on the market according to Paul himself.
@@ZackSeifMusic the only thing I can think of was this was a “bad run” of nickle, prs isn’t making it themselves so it leaves them open to some potential flaws which wouldn’t show until usage
Hopefully it doesn’t cost much to put SS frets on
I'm curious if anyone else has encountered your brand new 5k 594 not having level frets? I wish it was just a rare duck however, when the 594's first came out I did all kinds of fanageling to finally acquire one. Upon setting it up with new strings, truss rod etc....uhg, buzz with low action - nothing crazy low either. Ok, onto the workbench. Neck is all set straight with the proper tools - rock the frets and they're out all over the place. Once leveled the action was low and beautifully buzz free. I was so frustrated and disappointed by the whole thing that I sold it and figured that was it for me with PRS. Through various trades and circumstances I was in a position to get a nice new guitar about a month ago. Once again the 594 was clicking all the boxes for what I desired.
Once again - brand new, same deal with the frets. Maybe Paul should invest in a Plek machine - especially if he ever does the right thing and goes stainless. Honestly, I've had both great and crap fret jobs on all price level guitars....but c'mon, shouldn't 5k should be a promise of level frets to the consumer. Guess not.
The Bizarre thing is a friend of mine has a couple of high end PRS Guitar and has the same issues as you, Yet i have 3 PRS SEs.. including a Bernie Marsden Model and a 2013 Angelus Both have "Nitro" finishes and still look amazing.. I can only imagine that Indonesian nitro is more bullet proof than its American counterpart.
Seems like it 😂
I have a set neck Japanese LP copy I bought new in 1982. It has a poly finish and still looks good except for a few dings and scratches.. I'm not into retro distressed finishes or rat rod stuff. I agree with your concern.
This is off topic, but I wanted to ask you about the bridge block you are using. Is that custom made, or are they available to purchase? Thank you!
If you know someone with a 3D printer you can have them measure the exact distance in both sides of the bridge then make the block as appropriate. Unfortunately it’s not a one-size-fits-all, so my tech makes them for each guitar as needed based on setup etc.
@@ZackSeifMusic Thank you, Zack!
Great honest video. Blessings.
Thank you!
What's the blue stuff you blocking your tremolo with? I also have fairly recent PRS (35th Anniversary) and totally on the same page with the finish. This thing dings if you even look at it funny. My 20 years old other PRS looks brand new in comparison. I love this guitar to much to be even remotely upset
I don’t get it? Your blaming the finish for buckle rash? I love Nitro finishes, and have a 03’ McCarty, that’s like a vampire, it doesn’t show its age. Honestly, I think this issue is subjective and based on one’s personal taste. But I say, enjoy the wear and tear as a badge of honor as a player and not as a collector.
It’s much more than that. And my buckle never shows over my shirt nor do I wear my strap that low. If you watch around the halfway point there’s damage all over the guitar and fretboard.
Have you made your concerns known to PRS? Perhaps your story will clue them in to the pitfalls of the finishing changes.
I emailed them and they said "looks like normal wear and tear, can't do anything except charge 3x normal rates for basic setup work"
You can always buy a poly coated SE and upgrade the pickups and bridge. Would be much cheaper, finish would be much tougher, and you’d still have a great gigging guitar. Just a thought. 🤘
The SE guitars are fantastic. They definitely set the standard for import guitars here in the US.
You litterally have my favorite prs ever. I love blue matteo finish!
It's so good! This one is actually called Aquamarine and it's gorgeous in person.
@@ZackSeifMusic yeah, they are both incredible finishes. I really love that configuration. Next week will arrive to me a PRS custom 22 2003 sunburst with dragon 2 pu, can't wait🙌🏻
Have you considered ceramic coating the guitar?
The book matching is abysmal for that price point, as well.
Man, you just saved me 4 large! Thanks. I will stay with my custom shop 68 reissue L.P.
Find a pre-2019. My 2015 Custom 24 was a lot nicer and held up much longer.
Good to know. Thank you
Just bought a new Ibanez John Schofield Japan made model. Not as pretty as the PRS, but it still looks good. Built great, and the tone is wonderful!
What is the blue block in the trem cavity. Trem stop of some kind from who?
It’s a 3-D printed block my tech made! Anyone with a 3-S printer can measure your cavity on a properly setup bridge and get it to fit.
Honestly I love when guitars personalize.. easy to pick out in a lineup if it got stolen by the dents n dings that are as unique as a fingerprint
That is very fair!!!
Yes! I hate the nitro finish on my Mccarty 594, it chips and marks really easily, so poor I wish it was poly finish like my mint Fenders
It just wears too fast for the price 😢
I’m disappointed with my PRS core ,I have problems with static ,which can be annoying.My Se PRS doesnt have static problems. For the price I paid for it now way should it have any problems at all .
2021
PRS SE Custom 24 DC 2021??? Is this that model I 🤤 ?... Seems in my country prices dropped in Alza to 699€ ,but other music stores have 799 to 1100 €
Really appreciate this video. Was looking into PRS as my next purchase….. not anymore!
Just the 2019-2022 models have the CAB/Nitro. Pre-2019 have my full faith. Especially the 2010s. Those are great.
That’s how nitro finishes are. They’re much softer and less forgiving. You could always get the guitar refinished with polyurethane.
Looks still great on camera, I personally don't like poly finish, feels too plastic and gets sticky easier in my hands. If you are a pro, refret on a 3 years period does not sound out of this world to me.
You might be right! I’ve just not had to refret a guitar yet since I usually gig with SS frets so that’s good to know.
I can understand the way you feel. Having said that all things age…People, cars, trees, and guitars. No doubt that nitro ages quick with constant play and that is a contributing factor.
Ever really look at any heavily gigged touring guitars up close?
I know you have so no offense w/my comment but my point is that they’re beat up.
I buy guitars to play so that informs my choices at times. If it looks too precious, I stay away. I bought a PRS Artist Series “10” Top in 2017. It was so nice I felt guilty and sold it. I just couldn’t face the thought of that thing getting dinged up or scratched and that removed some of the fun of even having it.
The PRS is not a cheap instrument by any standard so I think if I were in your position I’d do what it sounds like you’re already doing…
Buy used or buy a nice relic where you can’t tell. The ORS CE is a fantastic workhorse PRS that looks even cooler bashes to death IMO.
To each their own but unless I were in a position to buy endless high end guitars, or unless I were a sponsored player, I’d be hesitant to put them through the rigors of the road/stage/weather/road, etc.
Honestly, I’d say it’s a good problem to have though. Many players just stress over being able to own a core PRS, or other high end equivalent. You’re playing, and making some money doing something you enjoy and doing with nicer tools than many…Not a bad gig IMO.
absolutely same opinion. i got a new WL made in 2020... the poly over nitro is soo soft. i hate it. screwdriver slipped out of my hand and the handle tapped the body. left a gnarly dent. the smallest screwdriver too. plastic clasp from guitar strap hit the top and left a nice ding. the finish makes dings and marks look 10x worse too
If wear on a tool you use a majority of the time is an issue for you, I'd suggest just collecting guitars and not playing them. Otherwise, deal, with it. That's what they're for. To be used. Dinged up. Scratched. 🙄🤦
It's not just the product... It's how it's applied, you can do a two coat system of finish but if you can afford the time, it's always better to do thin but wet coats multiple times, achieving the build slowly which maximizes the materials strength and lustre properties... Its just chemistry and a tiny bit of common sense...
what's that blue thing in your tremolo cavity?
3D printed trem block!
Agreed! PRS has a great legacy and I love my SE. Would also love to see a Nitro finish and stainless steel frets - and possible a little less high end on the end frequency content - I love the way they play and the fact they're so versatile & look great but sometimes the 85/15 I think has too much top end.
I got a 2021 PRS CE24. Within 1 month the finish started flaking off around the edges. Called PRS. 5 months later guitar was back in my hands, finish repaired, and I had them install the 24-08 switching in the guitar. Great rig now. Not as well wearing as my SE24, but they made the premature finish issue right.
Did they do a whole new finish? An extra layer of clear? Did they say?
@@Scott__C Didn't say. No problems with peeling in the last couple months it's been back. Looks like just smoothed the edges and re-did the clear .
@@shawnmcginnis2508 Sounds like it just didn't adhere in that spot properly.
@@Scott__C agreed. I wish PRS would go with a long wearing finish, which I thought was the benefit to the new finish vs tradional nitro. The guitars are so beautiful I'd want it to be an heirloom piece. That said I love the way mine sounds and plays and would probably buy another some day if I ever had the cash and justification.
@@shawnmcginnis2508 To me the S2 range is the sweet spot for everything they offer.