You made a good decision i just bought one and as far as tone and playability i prefer it to my pro strat and my LP traditional it just feels so good in your hands.
Question: how does the neck compare to their pattern regular or a fender strat neck? I'm asking because I'm either gonna get one of these or a s2 and I've never played a ce neck but I have played a pattern regular neck.
I’m with you- got a CE November ‘19. Love it. The 85/15’s are amazing. I was looking to get the custom 24 as well. One day I went in a music store and they had a CE. After I played it I knew I’d changed my mind.
Interesting, we never see the headstock, is it maple or dark with black facing? Considering a PRS, but no mention on the neck whether it is a slim taper or then neck compared to "x", so that is just a wonder, having played a few PRS's at the store, some have really fat necks, but learning here, and just wondering. Since you have a LP studio, which I have, and think are awesome as well:) How does that PRS neck compare to that? Thinner? the same? fatter? Thanks!
Dude you're really well spoken and you took the time to organize all of your talking points in this video, which makes watching it worth all the while. Well done there. I only mildly disagreed with you about one point, and that's about the PRS pedigree not holding up as high as Fender/Gibson. When you said people give PRS a bad rap, I was like "Wait, what? Who gives PRS a bad rap?" Every serious musician I've ever spoken with has had the upmost respect for PRS instruments, and ranks them up there with Fender and Gibson, if not above them entirely. I've never once heard PRS get a bad rap from anybody, even for their entry-level stuff. That's just my experience, it very well could be a regional thing or just dependent on the circles you roll with. Either way, doesn't discredit you or your video by any means. Thanks again for uploading!
YEP. Last I checked PRS held up just as good as LP's. As they should. Plus strats and LP's are a dime a dozen, they're everywhere, and they're boring. Who would ever wanna play the same G or F Guitar Center Special that a kid in Iowa is playing? snoresville.
I agree with you guys I don't think I've ever heard anyone say anything but great things about PRS guitars but it is true that their models won't get the same resale value as Gibson or Fender.. at least from what I've seen.
@@MrJ.31 You should look a little deeper into that topic. Most American ,made PRS models are holding their value better than American made Fender and Gibson guitars. They are simply better made and produce better tone. Ask Carlos Santana.
@@timhallas4275 Oh I absolutely agree man personally I've always preferred the sound of PRS over Gibson and Fender especially when comparing models of similar prices and I know they stay in tune longer and seem like they're better made pieces, I've just never seen them get a huge monetary trade in value like Fender and Gibson has. Again I'm just going by what I've seen and experienced. Maybe it's different when you start looking at platinum models cause I have seen some of those between the $5-6k range get a very good trade in price so I wasn't making an across the board statement, just a most of the time one. You could be right and maybe I need to do a little more homework on the matter though
Have been eyeing these for a while now. How hard is it to lower the action though? I like mine low cause for me, it makes it a little easier and since i have small hands, i need all the help i can get lol
I have a PRS McCarty 594 Ten Top that impresses me every time I play it. The variety of tones that I can get from that instrument are amazing. You can definitely tell that guitar was built with care and attention to detail.
I bought that exact guitar in May. In June, I bought a second one in Amber burst! These are great working guitars, love the unfinished necks and the comfortable weight. I sold two DGTs in favor of these.
Thanks, man, great video! I've had a PRS Custom 24 and currently have an SE 24 (aka The Green Goddess), which I dearly love. I've had the electronics customized in it, but it has become my primary guitar I use for all my studio sessions as well as gigging. That said, I've been lusting over the CE lately and have been seriously considering buying it. Anyway, you've convinced me to just go ahead and do it. My SE will be so jealous! ;-)
Hey Im thinking of getting an CE24 this summer..i had an SE cu24 but while was good I feel like im missing out.. have you played an SE? Is the CE much better?
The CNC machines in Asia cut the guitars the same way as here in the states. With a good setup the SE's are as good as any guitar. You pay a lot just for that made in america stamp on your guitar, labor costs are very high here. I have squiers and a $3k gibson and many in between and I love all of them. You're not missing out (but it is nice to have many)
I've seen these types of necks referred to as a "bolt-in" joint. That is, you have the neck joining into the body with all the tight fit of a quality set-neck guitar, but then it's bolted instead of glued. I've got a late-'70s Kramer aluminum-neck bass, which uses this method of construction. It's great. You get the best of both worlds.
Bottom line: You can't go wrong with ANY model PRS. My advice? If you can buy the $3500 set-neck models, do it; it's an heirloom piece, and it will never let you down with its legendary tuning stability and intonation. But if you're like me and struggling every other day, grab the model you can AFFORD now and save your gig money for the big brother model.
First and Foremost I’am a Gibson Les Paul Standard Loved , But I do respect PRS and this review was excellent totally a respectful review a intelligent man , saying the pros and cons doing the break down explaining his views standing Ovation !!! Well said .
Little Holmes thank you! Much appreciated! I would never fault anyone for being a les Paul lover. It’s almost a crime in the guitar world not to respect the ultimate work horse guitar. Les Paul’s will last forever. But I think that’s what Paul was going after when he started building guitars. Just a fantastic instrument.
I have a ruby red CE and love it. I took it to a club so the guitarist there could try it out, and I just sit out in the audience getting the full effect. It sounded fabulous...a perfect full balanced sound with the rest of the band.
I was always a Fender and Charvel player. I just recently bought my first PRS (Tremonti SE), and it is the best guitar I've ever played. I can only imagine how good the USA made PRS guitars are. Now I want a S2 or a CE next!
I will say my S2 was made in January of 2020 and it is by far the most incredible guitar I own. I only have about 5 to judge from, but I would play my S2 over my Schecter c7 hellraiser FR any day and every day. The neck craftsmanship is absolutely next level. It's so thin, that on video it almost looks silly. You can tell it's a luxury guitar just watching someone hold it. The sound is great(I play Doom Metal) and the knobs actually create different tones unlike cheaper made stock pickups.
I actually shot out a McCarty 594 in a glorious deep passion purple (non 10 top) against my CE24 Violin Amber Sunburst. They sounded identical plugged into the same amp. The only difference might have been a slightbass bump by a decibel. Probably the pickups.
Hey John, exact same experience as you. Went looking for a core range guitar, planning to pay the $$$. Tried the CE24 because it was there, and actually much preferred it to all the cores I tried. Coming from decades of Fender playing, I much prefer the snappy bite of the maple bolt-on to the heavy lo-mids of a mahogany set neck. A PRS that does great Humbucker tones, but also beautiful chimey cleans. In fact, the coil split sound of this guitar is one of the nicest clean guitar sounds I've ever heard. Fendery shimmery, but with a good deal more low umph and sustain. I also prefer the thinner body and more subtle carve. The carve and bolt-on may lower the price, but for me they also make it a more desirable guitar. I could hardly care whether it's technically a core or not. The point of a guitar is to play, and this one is one of the best players of the many guitars I've owned over 40 years. Enjoy man! :)
I have a 97 CE22 hardtail and I love it. It was the last year that had the Dragon 1 pickups in it, they switched to Dragon IIs in 98. I've got a JB/59 combo in mine at the moment though. Back then the CE was the "affordable" PRS model at $1500, there were no SE models or anything. I think all they had were the Custom, Standard, CE and McCarty. Great guitar man, you'll love it.
I would say that it is absolutely possible to get that tone, however the pickups are voiced a little more modern than you might like. They do have a bit more mid range voice than I think you’re looking for
Indeed it does my man! Honestly if you were to play them side by side, and they were both the same profile, the biggest difference would be the lacquer. But they are both rolled edges. It mostly boils down to preference but the satin feels much better in my opinion.
Beautiful. I prefer a satin neck, so this fits the bill. Sweetwater actually has a few limited edition CEs that have the entire body and neck with a satin finish...gorgeous instruments...and of course 3-4 years of financing with 0% interest is hard to beat. I may have to put in my order..lol. Thanks for sharing!
I went to the store wanting to buy a Custom 24 or a P24, then I saw the CE24. I tried all 3 and the CE24 felt the best to me. Sounded the best out of the C24 and Ce24. So i bought it. The only thing I'm missing that I REALLY want is a Piezo system. Know anywhere I could get a Piezo Bridge? I work at a Guitar factory so there's no issue setting it up.
Those who said he didn't give a comparison between the core and CE, you must have watched a different video. He clearly did. Perhaps you're just upset that you spent so much more money for something and aren't able to justify it. I've been playing for 33 yrs now and I'm a firm believer in you get what you pay for. But this is one of those instances you don't have to nearly double the cost to get something so close. It's a great deal on a guitar of this caliber. Good job on the video. You got your point across to those of us who are able to comprehend.
I did exactly the same as you. Went to buy a custom 24 already having a core custom 22 and S2 custom 24. Seen the CE in blue and had to have it. Only negative to me was the inlays. Still my "feels like home guitar"
I recently got the dusty wearing CE and it's ridiculously good it of course is designed for progressive METAL but surprisingly the MOJO tone tomahawk splitable pickups are incredibly versatile
Beautiful. Is that the blue smoke burst? You are totally speaking my language in this video in regards to why you wanted the PRS relative to your other guitars.
I have a PRS Paul's Guitar and I love it, I play every day and enjoy every second of it. and I am life time Gibson Fender fan in the Studio and once in a great while a gig with friends. I have become a PRS lead man.
I love videos like this. The point of this style of video is a player's perspective without a sound demo or trying to shred or show off. I prefer to hear about feel and playability from someone that has experience. Everything you say about this I also said about my PRS C24 SE. If I had the cash I would buy a CE before I went to the core line. Expensive enough to get all the features but not so expensive I don't want to play it or gig out with it.
Hey, thanks so much man! That's the kind of reviews I like watching too. There are tons of talented musicians out there that can really shred, but for sound tests my biggest concern was always, "Well I don't have that amp, or don't play that style of music" but if the guitar feels right, the sound can always be found. Never knock the SE, they are an absolutely fantastic product for the money. Many of the parts between the SE and S2 range are similar the only major difference is country of origin.
Do you take a back guitar when playing gigs? Did you check out the second hand market? Sorry for the questions mate. It's funny, the only PRS that has really grabbed my attention is the new PRS Silver Sky (and I'm not a Mayer fan). I realise they make lovely guitars but I'd be paranoid about knocking them cos they're so pretty. Enjoy it.
Ronnie Nose I have seen this particular guitar on reverb, FB marketplace and Craigslist for about a grand for second hand, so you can get them at a great deal. What I would recommend would be looking for the satin finish version of the CE because you don’t notice the scratch and dings and much as the hard lacquer.
John McGrady Oops, I meant 'back up guitar.' Have you looked at Eastman guitars? They do LP and 335 types. I really fancy the SB59. Made in China, but no CNC at all, just hand made by the best luthiers using the best woods. One piece mahogany back, highly figured book-matched maple cap, Seymour Duncan pickups, ebony fingerboard, nitro finish, bone nut, Switchcraft switch, CTS pots, mother of pearl inlays, and hardshell case, all for $1,799! Some are saying it's possibly THE best singlecut on the market, which considering the problems with Gibson's QC these days I'm not surprised. Doesn't matter if it's made in China, it's made how Gibson did it back in the day, by hand.
Many people share your affinity for the CE24. Do you still have an enjoy it? I am considering a new CE 24-08 or a Core Custom 24-08. Which would you recommend? I think they have a new switching system to split coils. I like the carve on the Core and I assume the pups are better and it's one solid piece of wood and the neck is set so it might have better sustain. way overpriced. The CE is definitely the best relative value in the PRS lineup.
Been trying to decide which PRS model to purchase. Been leaning toward the CE, but you've sold me. Plus, your Phillies gear proves that you are trustworthy! Go Phils!
Another advantage I’ve found is the heel joint. I can’t really notice a difference between the PRS bolt on and a PRS set neck. This is great for me because I move a lot and I find the bolt on to be a little more stable
I own this same CE and a Custom 22 core. The core has more girth in the tone mainly because of the thicker body However, the CE is extremely comfortable. I replaced the pick up rings, tuners and toggle to black. These are a beast.
Played a CE24 and loved it. Next day I bought the full fat custom 24. I never thought it was a mistake. I had trouble jelling with the pickups because I struggled to get metal tones but now I can do it....just requires a different preset making approach. Bought a Charvel which sounds better overall but has a horrible neck shape. Last month I’ve been playing the PRS exclusively and have finally really gotten into it. I’m now thinking of buying an SE 22 so I can have different tunings and more than likely change the pickups because who wants to do that in a £3000 Guitar. Mine is a fade whale blue with a distinctive....I guess you would call it “defect” in the top. When natural light catches it it look absolutely stunning. Not so much with the light bulbs.
That fretboard looks incredible. I didn’t even like PRS guitars. I thought they were for blues lawyers and posers. Then I picked up a hollow body 2 (SE range!!) and had my mind absolutely blown. It didn’t feel how I imagined a PRS guitar to feel. It felt and sounded like it contained the ghost of a great vintage arch top, but the guitar itself was incredibly modern. The whole instrument was so well thought out. I also think there was something about the SE version - it has a laminate top and back (which I actually prefer the sound of for a hollow body) So it’s a great guitar to get, even if you have some core models. Anyway, now I am hooked. Thinking of selling my Gibson’s and fenders grabbing a core 594 and a silver sky. It’s hard to go back now.
I picked up my custom 24 in 1996 coming from a Gibson SG and never looked back. The tonal range is sick. I spent that whole year playing different guitars through a MESA Dual Recto (same amp every time) and I kept coming back to to the PRS. It was like gravity. Back in 1996 it was generally custom ordering still (The shop WAS the custom shop). Even had my fingers measured, selected fret height, distance, pups, and I went for moon inlays (mother of pearl) over the birds. Also have a ten 4 position pick-up selector knob as opposed to the switch and the 10 position tone knob for more variety. Awesome experience and covered any tone I would want out of a fender or a gibson. The Gibby is actually going in soon for a refretting and some new custom pups to become my midi-guitar so I can play other instruments on my native.
Essentially yeah, minus some of the hardware and the top. I wish they would list it in their catalog as such. I was kinda surprised to see that they created a new category of "bolt-on" that consists of the 2 variety of CE and the Silver Sky that lives outside the core range.
It's 100% a core model man. It's minus some hardware and top from the Customs, but not from core overall. What you have is a core model through and through!
I was considering this but ended up getting the SE Custom 24 in Trampas Green . Amazing guitar for less than half the price of the CE and 1/3 the price of the core. For what I needed it fits perfectly.
My problem now after receiving my CE 24 last year is, that I want a Custom 24 and a Mccarty one day in my life. These intruments from Prs are just phenomenal. Have fun with yours! Greetings
I have a CE24, Custom 24 30th anniversary, and a se semi-hollow. I love the Custom 24, but the CE24 is the one I play out with most of the time, love that satin neck.
I have a 1991 CE 24 and the neck feels amazing, super thin. HFS and Vintage Bass pickups it plays amazing here is a piece a used it on. ua-cam.com/video/UWNxw-qQSiM/v-deo.html
Got the whale blue one about six months ago and I absolutely love it. I enjoyed watching your video just to remind myself how nice of a guitar it actually is. I’ve owned many Gibsons, Fenders and a Custom 24. They are all great guitars but you just can’t beat the CE24 for value and versatility. Nice job on the video!
Hey John! I enjoyed your review. I actually just bought one of these yesterday, I went into the store looking at an S2 Studio and wound up falling in love with this one, so I wound up dropping $500 more than intended. I have a question for you, what color is the tip on your trem arm? I always thought that the switch tip and trem tip should match the pickup rings. My trem tip is black, switch tip and rings are white. I have the same color that you have which I think is the whale blue. Enjoy your new axe man, I know I will!
MDK2323 thanks man, glad you enjoyed it! The S2 range have some fantastic guitars, and I love the satin finishes, but overall I think the CE is just a monster of value for the extra cost. Funny that you mention the arm! I hadn’t even thought about it but I believe you’re right, my trem arm has a black tip on it. I’ve seen some that are just metal as well.
I never noticed the trem tip till you mentioned it since I screwed the bridge down to hardtail mine, but my trem on my CE24 is black also, with cream pup rings and switch tip. It does seem weird now. Talk about "can't unsee it"...
Awesome! I have a CE24 with dot inlays from, I believe from 1991. Excellent ax. It gets played through a 5150 lll s and a Daul Rec from the 90's. Playability and tone are just impressive. Just an all around work hoarse of a guitar.
I saw this video and instantly bought 1. Arrived 1 day later, and damn it's a nice instrument👏 got the cherry burst limited edition one as that is the only thing they had in store, and god damn is it beautifull😍
Man, nice video! You need to make more! I love my PRS 408 but I'm afraid to leave home with it. I was thinking of the CE24 for traveling. Now, I'm thinking it is too nice as well. Time to look at the SE Custom 24.
I love my 2020 CE 24. Very versatile, plugged into my 5150 III- it’s instant tone city, and I’m the mayor.
Don’t lie your a dentist
I've been gigging with my '93 CE-24 for over 25 years. Refretted twice, new nut, new saddles, new tuners - still my main guitar. Highly recommended!
My CE made me a believer in PRS. Absolutely love it!
Bought one earlier this year and I love it! Specifically for its playability and the Pickups
I actually really enjoyed this video - you were like the little voice in my head telling me to go for the CE24. I appreciated that.
I just bought that exact same guitar a week ago.....absolutely love it. Great guitar
Tks for giving us the 411. Presented very well. All that was missing was hearing it played.
Dude for someone that’s not professional and that plays as a hobby you have a better collection than most of us 😂
You made a good decision i just bought one and as far as tone and playability i prefer it to my pro strat and my LP traditional it just feels so good in your hands.
Thank you for a great summary of the CE's design points, value and its playability. Just ordered my CE in Amber and can't wait!
Where did you order from? How did you end up liking the CE?
Question: how does the neck compare to their pattern regular or a fender strat neck? I'm asking because I'm either gonna get one of these or a s2 and I've never played a ce neck but I have played a pattern regular neck.
I’m with you- got a CE November ‘19. Love it. The 85/15’s are amazing. I was looking to get the custom 24 as well. One day I went in a music store and they had a CE. After I played it I knew I’d changed my mind.
Really enjoyed your discussion - very well-reasoned and articulate.
Thanks John great video, I'm looking at a beautiful trampas green CE right now and this really helped
Interesting, we never see the headstock, is it maple or dark with black facing? Considering a PRS, but no mention on the neck whether it is a slim taper or then neck compared to "x", so that is just a wonder, having played a few PRS's at the store, some have really fat necks, but learning here, and just wondering. Since you have a LP studio, which I have, and think are awesome as well:) How does that PRS neck compare to that? Thinner? the same? fatter? Thanks!
i love mine,the neck feels AMAZING,and the 85 15 pups just sing.
Dude you're really well spoken and you took the time to organize all of your talking points in this video, which makes watching it worth all the while. Well done there. I only mildly disagreed with you about one point, and that's about the PRS pedigree not holding up as high as Fender/Gibson. When you said people give PRS a bad rap, I was like "Wait, what? Who gives PRS a bad rap?" Every serious musician I've ever spoken with has had the upmost respect for PRS instruments, and ranks them up there with Fender and Gibson, if not above them entirely.
I've never once heard PRS get a bad rap from anybody, even for their entry-level stuff. That's just my experience, it very well could be a regional thing or just dependent on the circles you roll with. Either way, doesn't discredit you or your video by any means. Thanks again for uploading!
YEP. Last I checked PRS held up just as good as LP's. As they should. Plus strats and LP's are a dime a dozen, they're everywhere, and they're boring. Who would ever wanna play the same G or F Guitar Center Special that a kid in Iowa is playing? snoresville.
STOPITUA-cam : He doesn't know as much about guitars as he thinks he does.
I agree with you guys I don't think I've ever heard anyone say anything but great things about PRS guitars but it is true that their models won't get the same resale value as Gibson or Fender.. at least from what I've seen.
@@MrJ.31 You should look a little deeper into that topic. Most American ,made PRS models are holding their value better than American made Fender and Gibson guitars. They are simply better made and produce better tone. Ask Carlos Santana.
@@timhallas4275 Oh I absolutely agree man personally I've always preferred the sound of PRS over Gibson and Fender especially when comparing models of similar prices and I know they stay in tune longer and seem like they're better made pieces, I've just never seen them get a huge monetary trade in value like Fender and Gibson has. Again I'm just going by what I've seen and experienced. Maybe it's different when you start looking at platinum models cause I have seen some of those between the $5-6k range get a very good trade in price so I wasn't making an across the board statement, just a most of the time one. You could be right and maybe I need to do a little more homework on the matter though
Totally agree, I have owned both. I find that the way that my Satin CE fits into the mids within the mix is far superior to the custom line.
Have been eyeing these for a while now. How hard is it to lower the action though? I like mine low cause for me, it makes it a little easier and since i have small hands, i need all the help i can get lol
I have a PRS McCarty 594 Ten Top that impresses me every time I play it. The variety of tones that I can get from that instrument are amazing. You can definitely tell that guitar was built with care and attention to detail.
I have had mine for a little over a year now and I am still in love with it. Mine is also whale blue.
Which particular model is this? with the 3 way toggle iv'e only seen it with a blade switch? Thanks
Did you buy a hard case for it? If so do you mind telling me which brand and model case you got?
I bought that exact guitar in May. In June, I bought a second one in Amber burst! These are great working guitars, love the unfinished necks and the comfortable weight. I sold two DGTs in favor of these.
Man, I usually don't like PRS much, but the one you got is perfect ! Understated and I love the binding, beautiful !
Thanks, man, great video! I've had a PRS Custom 24 and currently have an SE 24 (aka The Green Goddess), which I dearly love. I've had the electronics customized in it, but it has become my primary guitar I use for all my studio sessions as well as gigging. That said, I've been lusting over the CE lately and have been seriously considering buying it. Anyway, you've convinced me to just go ahead and do it. My SE will be so jealous! ;-)
Great and persuasive video John. I am exactly where you were - looking to buy a custom 24 but now checking ou the CE range. Thank you - Ken
Hey Im thinking of getting an CE24 this summer..i had an SE cu24 but while was good I feel like im missing out.. have you played an SE? Is the CE much better?
The CNC machines in Asia cut the guitars the same way as here in the states. With a good setup the SE's are as good as any guitar. You pay a lot just for that made in america stamp on your guitar, labor costs are very high here.
I have squiers and a $3k gibson and many in between and I love all of them. You're not missing out (but it is nice to have many)
Great video John. Great analysis!
I just purchased a PRS Custom 24-08. Hopefully it will be delivered today. Aquamarine Pattern Thin Neck.
I've seen these types of necks referred to as a "bolt-in" joint. That is, you have the neck joining into the body with all the tight fit of a quality set-neck guitar, but then it's bolted instead of glued.
I've got a late-'70s Kramer aluminum-neck bass, which uses this method of construction. It's great. You get the best of both worlds.
Hey I love the colour of your guitar. You called it grey, but it looks blue. Is this the faded blue? Black gray? Whale blue? Thanks!
So it’s actual finish is grey black but depending on the light you have it in it kinda has a blue tint to it.
Bottom line: You can't go wrong with ANY model PRS. My advice? If you can buy the $3500 set-neck models, do it; it's an heirloom piece, and it will never let you down with its legendary tuning stability and intonation.
But if you're like me and struggling every other day, grab the model you can AFFORD now and save your gig money for the big brother model.
The standard 24s. Can't go wrong 🥺
Gorgeous PRS ! That one is really triggering my GAS. Congrats !
Excellent video. Just picked up my first CE.
I’ve got a CE24 I bought new last year and I love it!! It’s been my “Go To Guitar” for everything since.
GREAT INFORMATIVE VID, NICE JOB, THANKYOU!!!
Gorgeous guitar. What finish is it?
2020 grey black?
you are so humble and honest, great review, thank you for your info
First and Foremost I’am a Gibson Les Paul Standard Loved , But I do respect PRS and this review was excellent totally a respectful review a intelligent man , saying the pros and cons doing the break down explaining his views standing Ovation !!! Well said .
Little Holmes thank you! Much appreciated! I would never fault anyone for being a les Paul lover. It’s almost a crime in the guitar world not to respect the ultimate work horse guitar. Les Paul’s will last forever.
But I think that’s what Paul was going after when he started building guitars. Just a fantastic instrument.
I really like your review style. I'm a gear nerd so we like talking. Make more vids. I think you've convinced me to get ce.
You won’t be disappointed, I love mine. Very versatile, feels good in your hands.
I have a ruby red CE and love it. I took it to a club so the guitarist there could try it out, and I just sit out in the audience getting the full effect. It sounded fabulous...a perfect full balanced sound with the rest of the band.
I was always a Fender and Charvel player. I just recently bought my first PRS (Tremonti SE), and it is the best guitar I've ever played. I can only imagine how good the USA made PRS guitars are. Now I want a S2 or a CE next!
I will say my S2 was made in January of 2020 and it is by far the most incredible guitar I own. I only have about 5 to judge from, but I would play my S2 over my Schecter c7 hellraiser FR any day and every day. The neck craftsmanship is absolutely next level. It's so thin, that on video it almost looks silly. You can tell it's a luxury guitar just watching someone hold it. The sound is great(I play Doom Metal) and the knobs actually create different tones unlike cheaper made stock pickups.
I actually shot out a McCarty 594 in a glorious deep passion purple (non 10 top) against my CE24 Violin Amber Sunburst. They sounded identical plugged into the same amp. The only difference might have been a slightbass bump by a decibel. Probably the pickups.
Hi dude, very interesting video, but I wondered what is the name of the color of your guitar because it just looks amazing !
Thanks man! The color is called “Grey Black.” They got really imaginative on that one.
Hey John, exact same experience as you. Went looking for a core range guitar, planning to pay the $$$. Tried the CE24 because it was there, and actually much preferred it to all the cores I tried. Coming from decades of Fender playing, I much prefer the snappy bite of the maple bolt-on to the heavy lo-mids of a mahogany set neck. A PRS that does great Humbucker tones, but also beautiful chimey cleans. In fact, the coil split sound of this guitar is one of the nicest clean guitar sounds I've ever heard. Fendery shimmery, but with a good deal more low umph and sustain. I also prefer the thinner body and more subtle carve. The carve and bolt-on may lower the price, but for me they also make it a more desirable guitar. I could hardly care whether it's technically a core or not. The point of a guitar is to play, and this one is one of the best players of the many guitars I've owned over 40 years. Enjoy man! :)
I have a 97 CE22 hardtail and I love it. It was the last year that had the Dragon 1 pickups in it, they switched to Dragon IIs in 98. I've got a JB/59 combo in mine at the moment though. Back then the CE was the "affordable" PRS model at $1500, there were no SE models or anything. I think all they had were the Custom, Standard, CE and McCarty. Great guitar man, you'll love it.
Can you get that 90s rock sound with them, G&R and such? Or are the mids too high?
I would say that it is absolutely possible to get that tone, however the pickups are voiced a little more modern than you might like. They do have a bit more mid range voice than I think you’re looking for
Probably the best 'love" video for the CE24 on UA-cam. As a well seasoned gigging player, it's the closet thing to perfection I've yet experienced.
Great review, I have the CE24 in Dark Cherry, 2015 model.. Its a great guitar, and the pickups are fantastic!.. Highly recommended buy!..
I've been on the fence between these two as well. Does the neck on the CE have the same "rolled edges" as the core models?
Indeed it does my man! Honestly if you were to play them side by side, and they were both the same profile, the biggest difference would be the lacquer. But they are both rolled edges.
It mostly boils down to preference but the satin feels much better in my opinion.
Beautiful. I prefer a satin neck, so this fits the bill. Sweetwater actually has a few limited edition CEs that have the entire body and neck with a satin finish...gorgeous instruments...and of course 3-4 years of financing with 0% interest is hard to beat. I may have to put in my order..lol. Thanks for sharing!
What finish is your PRS? I may have missed that in the video.
Just picked up a 2018 CE24.... your video helped a lot in my decision. Thank you!
Awesome Video! Thanks a lot! :) What is the colour called? Looks stunning!
Thank you! The color isn’t as creative as the rest in the lineup, it’s simply Grey Black.
What's the background noise from 3:48 onward?
Excellent analysis and presentation, John.
Thanks man!
John, great review! That makes my decision easier.
So, you're buying the Fender?
@@timhallas4275 bruh
I went to the store wanting to buy a Custom 24 or a P24, then I saw the CE24. I tried all 3 and the CE24 felt the best to me. Sounded the best out of the C24 and Ce24. So i bought it. The only thing I'm missing that I REALLY want is a Piezo system. Know anywhere I could get a Piezo Bridge? I work at a Guitar factory so there's no issue setting it up.
Those who said he didn't give a comparison between the core and CE, you must have watched a different video. He clearly did. Perhaps you're just upset that you spent so much more money for something and aren't able to justify it. I've been playing for 33 yrs now and I'm a firm believer in you get what you pay for. But this is one of those instances you don't have to nearly double the cost to get something so close. It's a great deal on a guitar of this caliber. Good job on the video. You got your point across to those of us who are able to comprehend.
I did exactly the same as you. Went to buy a custom 24 already having a core custom 22 and S2 custom 24. Seen the CE in blue and had to have it. Only negative to me was the inlays. Still my "feels like home guitar"
Is there a wind blowing into the mic while somebody playing same beat for 20 min?))
never saw a better review of a guitar without a single note played.you helped me make my mind to go get CE,as I could not decide.thanks.
Great review and explanation. One of the best I have watched. Great job
I recently got the dusty wearing CE and it's ridiculously good it of course is designed for progressive METAL but surprisingly the MOJO tone tomahawk splitable pickups are incredibly versatile
I also have a Strat and an LP Studio and ended up buying a CE as an in between in order to gig without switching and I’ve been really happy with it.
I bought mine today.
Great Natural sound.
Great playability.
It looks beautiful.
Light.
Well made overall.
And well priced.
That’s been really helpful, thanks
Beautiful. Is that the blue smoke burst? You are totally speaking my language in this video in regards to why you wanted the PRS relative to your other guitars.
I have a PRS Paul's Guitar and I love it, I play every day and enjoy every second of it. and I am life time Gibson Fender fan in the Studio and once in a great while a gig with friends. I have become a PRS lead man.
Can you post a video I of one of your gigs?
Does the CE24 have actual binding or is it artificial?
Is the prs ce lighter than your Gibson les paul studio???
I love videos like this. The point of this style of video is a player's perspective without a sound demo or trying to shred or show off. I prefer to hear about feel and playability from someone that has experience. Everything you say about this I also said about my PRS C24 SE. If I had the cash I would buy a CE before I went to the core line. Expensive enough to get all the features but not so expensive I don't want to play it or gig out with it.
Hey, thanks so much man! That's the kind of reviews I like watching too. There are tons of talented musicians out there that can really shred, but for sound tests my biggest concern was always, "Well I don't have that amp, or don't play that style of music" but if the guitar feels right, the sound can always be found. Never knock the SE, they are an absolutely fantastic product for the money. Many of the parts between the SE and S2 range are similar the only major difference is country of origin.
Do you take a back guitar when playing gigs? Did you check out the second hand market? Sorry for the questions mate. It's funny, the only PRS that has really grabbed my attention is the new PRS Silver Sky (and I'm not a Mayer fan). I realise they make lovely guitars but I'd be paranoid about knocking them cos they're so pretty. Enjoy it.
Ronnie Nose I have seen this particular guitar on reverb, FB marketplace and Craigslist for about a grand for second hand, so you can get them at a great deal.
What I would recommend would be looking for the satin finish version of the CE because you don’t notice the scratch and dings and much as the hard lacquer.
John McGrady
Oops, I meant 'back up guitar.' Have you looked at Eastman guitars? They do LP and 335 types. I really fancy the SB59. Made in China, but no CNC at all, just hand made by the best luthiers using the best woods. One piece mahogany back, highly figured book-matched maple cap, Seymour Duncan pickups, ebony fingerboard, nitro finish, bone nut, Switchcraft switch, CTS pots, mother of pearl inlays, and hardshell case, all for $1,799! Some are saying it's possibly THE best singlecut on the market, which considering the problems with Gibson's QC these days I'm not surprised. Doesn't matter if it's made in China, it's made how Gibson did it back in the day, by hand.
I have the same problem right now, not knowing if i should save up for a core or go with the CE😅
Yours look great! Whats the name of the color?
Many people share your affinity for the CE24. Do you still have an enjoy it? I am considering a new CE 24-08 or a Core Custom 24-08. Which would you recommend?
I think they have a new switching system to split coils. I like the carve on the Core and I assume the pups are better and it's one solid piece of wood and the neck is set so it might have better sustain. way overpriced. The CE is definitely the best relative value in the PRS lineup.
Been trying to decide which PRS model to purchase. Been leaning toward the CE, but you've sold me. Plus, your Phillies gear proves that you are trustworthy! Go Phils!
Got my sunburst one barely used off of Reverb for under $1300. Love it!
Another advantage I’ve found is the heel joint. I can’t really notice a difference between the PRS bolt on and a PRS set neck. This is great for me because I move a lot and I find the bolt on to be a little more stable
Excellent video with great info and well presented. I am about to buy a CE 24 but the semi hollowbody version.
I own this same CE and a Custom 22 core. The core has more girth in the tone mainly because of the thicker body However, the CE is extremely comfortable. I replaced the pick up rings, tuners and toggle to black. These are a beast.
In the 2018 prs se custom 24 (I got the semi hollow) if you pull the tone knob, it makes it single coil
This is such a good video, good quality and content, where'd you go?? Id watch more
Thanks for playing those nice guitars in this video. The tones were great. 😉
Played a CE24 and loved it. Next day I bought the full fat custom 24. I never thought it was a mistake. I had trouble jelling with the pickups because I struggled to get metal tones but now I can do it....just requires a different preset making approach. Bought a Charvel which sounds better overall but has a horrible neck shape. Last month I’ve been playing the PRS exclusively and have finally really gotten into it. I’m now thinking of buying an SE 22 so I can have different tunings and more than likely change the pickups because who wants to do that in a £3000 Guitar. Mine is a fade whale blue with a distinctive....I guess you would call it “defect” in the top. When natural light catches it it look absolutely stunning. Not so much with the light bulbs.
Very cool video! Very smart perspective and great points! I just scored a 2017 CE24 on reverb ($1250 plus shipping) Very happy to own one again!
That fretboard looks incredible.
I didn’t even like PRS guitars. I thought they were for blues lawyers and posers.
Then I picked up a hollow body 2 (SE range!!) and had my mind absolutely blown.
It didn’t feel how I imagined a PRS guitar to feel.
It felt and sounded like it contained the ghost of a great vintage arch top, but the guitar itself was incredibly modern.
The whole instrument was so well thought out.
I also think there was something about the SE version - it has a laminate top and back (which I actually prefer the sound of for a hollow body)
So it’s a great guitar to get, even if you have some core models.
Anyway, now I am hooked. Thinking of selling my Gibson’s and fenders grabbing a core 594 and a silver sky.
It’s hard to go back now.
I picked up my custom 24 in 1996 coming from a Gibson SG and never looked back. The tonal range is sick. I spent that whole year playing different guitars through a MESA Dual Recto (same amp every time) and I kept coming back to to the PRS. It was like gravity. Back in 1996 it was generally custom ordering still (The shop WAS the custom shop). Even had my fingers measured, selected fret height, distance, pups, and I went for moon inlays (mother of pearl) over the birds. Also have a ten 4 position pick-up selector knob as opposed to the switch and the 10 position tone knob for more variety. Awesome experience and covered any tone I would want out of a fender or a gibson. The Gibby is actually going in soon for a refretting and some new custom pups to become my midi-guitar so I can play other instruments on my native.
Interesting, thanks for sharing!
Awesome review. Thanx and congratulations with this nice guitar.
Thanks man!
The PRS CE range is a core series of PRS.. only with a bolt on neck!
Essentially yeah, minus some of the hardware and the top. I wish they would list it in their catalog as such. I was kinda surprised to see that they created a new category of "bolt-on" that consists of the 2 variety of CE and the Silver Sky that lives outside the core range.
An a 3 piece neck.
It's 100% a core model man. It's minus some hardware and top from the Customs, but not from core overall. What you have is a core model through and through!
The Neck of 3 pieces (joins in the heel and headstock) moves the CE away from the core and brings it closer to low cost guitars.
Core range isn't a spectrum. It either is, or isn't core range, and this is.
I was considering this but ended up getting the SE Custom 24 in Trampas Green . Amazing guitar for less than half the price of the CE and 1/3 the price of the core. For what I needed it fits perfectly.
Thanks...I originally wanted to get an Epi SG w vibrola but I'm gonna have to try these out. It is absolutely gorgeous!
My problem now after receiving my CE 24 last year is, that I want a Custom 24 and a Mccarty one day in my life. These intruments from Prs are just phenomenal. Have fun with yours! Greetings
I have a CE24, Custom 24 30th anniversary, and a se semi-hollow. I love the Custom 24, but the CE24 is the one I play out with most of the time, love that satin neck.
I have a 1991 CE 24 and the neck feels amazing, super thin. HFS and Vintage Bass pickups it plays amazing here is a piece a used it on.
ua-cam.com/video/UWNxw-qQSiM/v-deo.html
What does core mean in prs guitar?
Got the whale blue one about six months ago and I absolutely love it. I enjoyed watching your video just to remind myself how nice of a guitar it actually is. I’ve owned many Gibsons, Fenders and a Custom 24. They are all great guitars but you just can’t beat the CE24 for value and versatility. Nice job on the video!
Hey John! I enjoyed your review. I actually just bought one of these yesterday, I went into the store looking at an S2 Studio and wound up falling in love with this one, so I wound up dropping $500 more than intended. I have a question for you, what color is the tip on your trem arm? I always thought that the switch tip and trem tip should match the pickup rings. My trem tip is black, switch tip and rings are white. I have the same color that you have which I think is the whale blue. Enjoy your new axe man, I know I will!
MDK2323 thanks man, glad you enjoyed it! The S2 range have some fantastic guitars, and I love the satin finishes, but overall I think the CE is just a monster of value for the extra cost.
Funny that you mention the arm! I hadn’t even thought about it but I believe you’re right, my trem arm has a black tip on it. I’ve seen some that are just metal as well.
I never noticed the trem tip till you mentioned it since I screwed the bridge down to hardtail mine, but my trem on my CE24 is black also, with cream pup rings and switch tip. It does seem weird now. Talk about "can't unsee it"...
Awesome! I have a CE24 with dot inlays from, I believe from 1991. Excellent ax. It gets played through a 5150 lll s and a Daul Rec from the 90's. Playability and tone are just impressive. Just an all around work hoarse of a guitar.
I saw this video and instantly bought 1. Arrived 1 day later, and damn it's a nice instrument👏 got the cherry burst limited edition one as that is the only thing they had in store, and god damn is it beautifull😍
Do you still have this guitar?
Man, nice video! You need to make more! I love my PRS 408 but I'm afraid to leave home with it. I was thinking of the CE24 for traveling. Now, I'm thinking it is too nice as well. Time to look at the SE Custom 24.
Nice video. I bought a PRS because it felt great in my hands. The neck is superb. All good. Dropped in Duncan pickups but nothing feels like a PRS.