I Compare My PRS 594 To The S2 594

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LPD 68 Overdrive Pedal for light gain
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Video in using Multimeter on pick ups
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Пікірлер: 582

  • @runningwithscissors0911
    @runningwithscissors09114 жыл бұрын

    You always do such great reviews Phil ~ detailed, factual point by point comparison. VERY informative and helpful.

  • @wolverine3344
    @wolverine33444 жыл бұрын

    Solid video Phil, you’ve done a really nice job producing the educational graphics. Thanks for this comparison that I’ve been holding out for.

  • @gregorygetable
    @gregorygetable Жыл бұрын

    Love your videos and this too. I have vintage guitars. I have 3 PRS se, and my S2 594 is my most prized guitar, sustain and clarity through gain and ease of playing. You vids help me immensely. And this helped pick my S2 which I adore

  • @tomyates2551
    @tomyates25514 жыл бұрын

    The vid we've been waiting for, thank you for doing this sir.

  • @malicesmom
    @malicesmom4 жыл бұрын

    I love the cut and finish of the S2, but you can't deny the beautiful sound of that Core. Great video!

  • @whitec59
    @whitec592 жыл бұрын

    This channel always answers all my questions when comparing gear. Subscribed

  • @grahamr7756
    @grahamr77563 жыл бұрын

    Started laughing my ass off when you brought out the voltage meter thing. You’re awesome for doing all this

  • @chrisggoodwin777
    @chrisggoodwin7774 жыл бұрын

    I have an S2 Standard 22 which was custom ordered by my local shop with 57-08 "S" pickups. I ordered a set of the American pickups, and they sound fuller and cleaner. The S pickups were good, but the US are great. Every other aspect of the guitar (playability, feel, tuning stability, fit and finish) all stack up with my Core Custom 24. I'd definitely recommend, as you said, Phil, picking up an S2 and swapping the pickups for the US counterparts. Awesome video as always! 🍻

  • @TheStudioRats
    @TheStudioRats3 жыл бұрын

    I was shocked by the difference in the pickups, Thanks for a great video Phillip.

  • @buckler57
    @buckler574 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the comparison! Subscribed!

  • @stephenprosser6787
    @stephenprosser67874 жыл бұрын

    Just got an S2 and it was the guitar I have been looking for. It feels like my Fenders but gives me that humbucker goodness. Another great video Phil! Big thanks for all you do.

  • @paolocavalli7

    @paolocavalli7

    3 жыл бұрын

    how fat is the neck?, i have small hands and love the strat neck to play thumb over the top, i read its kinda chunky though :(

  • @marcelmordechai800

    @marcelmordechai800

    2 жыл бұрын

    You all prolly dont give a damn but does anybody know a tool to get back into an Instagram account? I was stupid lost the login password. I would love any tips you can give me

  • @louiekhari3200

    @louiekhari3200

    2 жыл бұрын

    @Marcel Mordechai instablaster ;)

  • @marcelmordechai800

    @marcelmordechai800

    2 жыл бұрын

    @Louie Khari I really appreciate your reply. I found the site on google and Im waiting for the hacking stuff atm. Looks like it's gonna take a while so I will get back to you later with my results.

  • @pokepatrick7887
    @pokepatrick78874 жыл бұрын

    Hi Phil, just wanted to leave a comment. I have been watching your videos for a while now and wanted to thank you for the inspiration, the information and the general feel of you videos. I have bought my very first guitar this week! Also, your videos have a calming effect on me, while watching I can just find some ease of mind. Thank you for that and keep doing what you do! Kind regards, a fan from Belgium.

  • @StringsOfCrossroads

    @StringsOfCrossroads

    4 жыл бұрын

    Poke patrick congrats on the first guitar! First of many I’m sure! This is an expensive hobby! Just look at Phil’s collection!

  • @MVos-md3rp
    @MVos-md3rp4 жыл бұрын

    Thorough, in depth, professional. Thank you.

  • @uhhmaybe
    @uhhmaybe4 жыл бұрын

    Nice work on the video production, Phil. It makes for a great comparison video.

  • @namasaki1
    @namasaki12 жыл бұрын

    Great comparison Review. Especially the info about the neck construction. I recently purchased the S2 DC and love the feel and comfort.

  • @Rluce75
    @Rluce754 жыл бұрын

    I knew you would come through with something like this! Thank you, thank you!

  • @JohnSmithiuyytw
    @JohnSmithiuyytw4 жыл бұрын

    Great video! Thanks for putting it out, it's great to hear the guitars resonate and develop cleanly rather than endless overdriven blues licks on so many videos. Dude, dont sell that Core! :) it's alive and will only get better over time. My next guitar will probably be an S2, my actual guitar is an SE Hollowbody II, which I love, like you I'll change the tuners and pickups soonish bit they are perfectly functional. I'm a big fan of PRS but don't see a Core in my future unless I get a windfall :)

  • @ERWebster
    @ERWebster4 жыл бұрын

    Wow, just a +1 on your presentation and detail in this one, very nice. As for the guitars themselves, as soon as you played the single-cut I decided that would be the one just instantly so much clarity and character. Price considered though, I can't afford either of them. XD

  • @elenbrandt290
    @elenbrandt2904 жыл бұрын

    Thank you Phil, you answered all my questions, without knowing what they were ....

  • @darrellm3410

    @darrellm3410

    4 жыл бұрын

    He always does. He reaches in my mind and tells me what I need to know before I even knew I needed to know it. Lol

  • @elenbrandt290

    @elenbrandt290

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@darrellm3410 Psychic Phil strikes again - gotta' love him!

  • @baronvonchickenpants6564
    @baronvonchickenpants65644 жыл бұрын

    That color on the core is gorgeous

  • @robs3253
    @robs32534 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Phil! The guitar community needs this right about now!! 🤘

  • @trestuck6865
    @trestuck6865 Жыл бұрын

    Mr. McKnight, You just answered damn near every question i had about these 2 guitar's... I appreciate the video and the time you took to make said video . Cuz im looking at the 594... So ... Thank you !

  • @thegreatdel
    @thegreatdel4 жыл бұрын

    If I only ever heard the S2, I'd think it was great. Hearing it in a direct comparison with the "Big Boys" model, it sounds like it's got a blanket over it.

  • @daw162

    @daw162

    4 жыл бұрын

    It's just pickup output, but you can't tell in compressed sound from a camera mic. They could be similar volume. Either way, I'd expect the output or quality of the pickups in the core to be better - they could be purchased and put in the S2, though.

  • @gtr1952

    @gtr1952

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@daw162 The problem is PRS will not sell us the 58/15 LT PUPs. You can buy the older ones, but the current ones are not for sale to the public. If you find a source please post and share. Thanks! --gary

  • @jerrymckenzie6205

    @jerrymckenzie6205

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@daw162 I have an S2 and the pickups sound very good. They don't sound that great through a Princeton (as Phil is using) and they definitely sound muddy in this video. Rest assured that this video is not an accurate representation of their potential.

  • @krazigear8663

    @krazigear8663

    4 жыл бұрын

    I'd say pretty accurate, it's taking away the in room sound and getting a as accurate as possible account of the sound as it's rarely possible to do a A/B of them. I recently got a S2 SC and I'd say they sounded good except no matter what I did they sounded a little muffled. I swapped them for a PRS #6 in the bridge and a Duncan slash in the neck. Now it's a core beater, but that's mainly a taste thing. I've had a few cores/ core artists/old CE/ se and with this combo it's as good as any core I've had. The S2 pickups are the same factory pickups as the SE range so don't expect miracles, there's a reason why they're on the pocket friendly SE range BUT the pickups in their own right are actually pretty good but sonically not what I wanted. I'd say at this point I'd rather have 2 S2 guitars done properly than 1 core

  • @McSlobo

    @McSlobo

    4 жыл бұрын

    You can buy a bunch of aftermarket pickups to choose from with $2k, and locking tuners too. I even dig the look of those S2s more. However, if you want those special pickups, which might be very good, ...

  • @rexorotten9262
    @rexorotten92622 жыл бұрын

    I love the McCarty S2 pickups. Actually probably my favorite pickups of any guitar that I own. I have a problem with guitars sounding overly bright and these pickups rarely ever sound that way, but not dull either.

  • @AntonioGomez-ob9og
    @AntonioGomez-ob9og4 жыл бұрын

    As always this is a great video keep it up like that buddy in your person I found honesty transparency and I like the talent that you have to play a guitar

  • @BirdRockin
    @BirdRockin2 жыл бұрын

    was wondering how the S2 stacks up against a core, and now I know. Thank you, great comparison video

  • @johngee4306
    @johngee430611 ай бұрын

    Tried the S2 594 single cut. It was perfect, the pick ups are decent enough to my ears I thought. I prefer very thin necks but after 10 minutes with the pattern vintage I just loved it, it felt just right. The tuners are rock solid too, and they look beautiful with the faux bone binding. I’m amazed at how much bigger sounding the McCarty is compared to my core custom 24. The single cut S2 594 is my next guitar. PRS got this S2 line perfect.

  • @OuttaHere7
    @OuttaHere72 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for this! I just bought an S2 singlecut w phase III tuners and it is a joy! Might upgrade the pickups in the near future. God bless!

  • @7thday878
    @7thday8783 жыл бұрын

    Don’t underestimate the S2! That neck pup is great for rhythm and sub layered chords. From a studio perspective both are great just different. Live with an amp, it’s whatever feels better to the player. Your audience will not know the difference.

  • @fogboundturtle

    @fogboundturtle

    Жыл бұрын

    There is a certain muddiness in the mid for the S2 version.

  • @johngee4306

    @johngee4306

    11 ай бұрын

    Yes….100% the audience don’t know or even care what brand/model you play. Amps, mics, PA gear all affect how you sound much much more than SE vs S2 vs Core pick ups do in a live mix.

  • @eddiejr540
    @eddiejr5404 жыл бұрын

    Every time I watch one if these videos I realize...I DON’T know my gear!!!...thanks for the all your great work Mr. Phil !!!!

  • @stevelandress
    @stevelandress4 жыл бұрын

    I contacted PRS about the tuners on the new 594s and according to them, the Phase III tuners are a direct replacement for the "vintage" tuners that are now put on the 594. Also, I saw on their website that both the S2 and core bridges are identical. I've been waiting for a comparison video like this because I've been considering buying a 594. After hearing the difference I've decided to save my money and get a core and swap the tuners. (Of course I'd have to swap the tuners no matter which one I got.)

  • @rokdog97
    @rokdog972 жыл бұрын

    Great video Phil. I decided on the S2 Eriza Verde. Quite the beefy Neck! I didn't notice the neck joints till you mentioned it. I needed a LED light to see the joints, very well done fit and finish. Thanks again for the comparison.

  • @kcbc9037
    @kcbc90374 жыл бұрын

    I have a 35th anniversary s2 custom 24 and they come with the locking tuning machines for whatever reason. I love it!

  • @mikeg3660
    @mikeg36604 жыл бұрын

    Great job on a summarized comparison. I bet you could adjust the s2 pickups to achieve the same type of bright character. I have found that the smallest adjustments in pole piece or pickup height can have a major impact on tone.... food for thought before switching pickups.

  • @dw22509
    @dw225094 жыл бұрын

    Definitely interested in more S2 and CE stuff. I dipped a toe in and got a S2 standard 22 and the neck carve is, for me, perfect.

  • @gtr1952
    @gtr19524 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for the honesty Phil.! Really appreciate that! --gary

  • @petersuddath6477
    @petersuddath64774 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Philip, this was very interesting!

  • @bobbyfields7359
    @bobbyfields73594 жыл бұрын

    Dude! The video quality is scary good!

  • @sublyme2157
    @sublyme21573 жыл бұрын

    I played a used S2 Custom 24 at Guitar Center and was blown away by the clarity, sustain, and dynamic range of the guitar. It was like playing bells or a grand piano, something that no KZread video I've seen can capture. It has to be played and felt to understand. If a Core is even better, then the $2000 difference comes down to this: will you wish you bought the Core every time you pick up the S2? Because $2000 is a small price to pay for no regret.

  • @MRORYX

    @MRORYX

    Жыл бұрын

    Idk core are twice the money if u look at the difference u could put the pickups of a core in an s2 for alot cheaper and pretty much be perfect baring that beautiful top on the core series

  • @robsonf6683
    @robsonf66833 ай бұрын

    We are so thankful for you knowledge and your fine articulated videos! I got sick with covid and lost sensation on my playing hand, so after the last 21 years raising my kids , i picked up the guitar aain. Playing helps distract me from the numb arm and my dream is to own a PRS . I love the se Mccarthy on this video and i will start to save some money to get one someday. Thank you for the wonderful work you do.

  • @tshapiro1000
    @tshapiro10004 ай бұрын

    Really good comparison Phil

  • @joeabrenica4467
    @joeabrenica44674 жыл бұрын

    I got both guitars, you’re right on every aspect, still I chose the S2 for gigging and studio work.🤘

  • @joeykelly5642
    @joeykelly56424 жыл бұрын

    That S2 mirrors my experience with PRS's SE line: great feel but muddy pickups. The core sounded much better. I definitely prefer the carve (and price tag!) of PRS's non-core model, though.

  • @natanaeldamian2192

    @natanaeldamian2192

    4 жыл бұрын

    That's because the s2 uses the same Korean pickups of the SE.

  • @sublyme2157
    @sublyme21574 жыл бұрын

    Great comparison, thanks! The S2 sounds a lot like my 2017 Gibson Les Paul Tribute.

  • @jesusconcristo
    @jesusconcristo4 жыл бұрын

    Excellent video like always Greetings from Switzerland

  • @richsolis6538
    @richsolis65384 жыл бұрын

    Absolutely love this video comparisons. I have two thumbs and you get two thumbs up!!

  • @michaelalsop7152
    @michaelalsop71524 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much. I really appreciate that insight.

  • @taharoahuri2820
    @taharoahuri28204 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge ! Maybe PRS pick ups comparaison next time ? Cheers from Tahiti !

  • @skeetschuler1859
    @skeetschuler18594 жыл бұрын

    That was a great review. Thanks

  • @SingPsalms
    @SingPsalms2 жыл бұрын

    Amazing guitars, both of them, SE to Core they are all well made. wow. I've been eyeing the S2 guitars but even the higher-end “SE” guitars have been tempting.

  • @baykay9559
    @baykay95594 жыл бұрын

    Excellent comparison video. Just subscribed. I’ve been wondering just how much difference there is between the S2 and the Core. You answered all of my questions. Thank you!!!!!!

  • @kevinblythe2192
    @kevinblythe21924 жыл бұрын

    I bought a 594 for the feel and the clarity 2 years ago. Not disappointed in any way and play it every day. It will see me out.

  • @manson9083

    @manson9083

    3 жыл бұрын

    Im curios, i love my LTD EC1000 LP style guitar. But now i really want an S2 594, are they as good as people say

  • @ourbackyardwildlife
    @ourbackyardwildlife3 жыл бұрын

    Just rewired mine to vintage style ('50s wiring) and it brought the guitar to life. All the muddiness has gone, I now have sparkle and usable volume/tone controls. I too was thinking about replacing the pickups, but not anymore. Couldn't be happier. If you bought an S2 594 - I would recommend trying this before considering replacing pickups.

  • @ourbackyardwildlife

    @ourbackyardwildlife

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@brianmckenzie1318 Yes, still very happy. Give it a go before you start down the pickup swapping rabbit hole.

  • @tonechaser7174
    @tonechaser7174 Жыл бұрын

    I could tell a massive difference with the core. Just really well balanced. S2 was so bassy

  • @Frozenguy1
    @Frozenguy13 жыл бұрын

    The core is brighter and crisper indeed!

  • @CycloneJack
    @CycloneJack3 жыл бұрын

    I've watched a lot of videos on the S2 McCarty 594 and I'm glad I found yours. So, the S2 is worth getting over the Core--but with upgraded pickups (which are the heart of a guitar's sound) and upgraded tuners. Very good to know. I was thinking hard about getting an S2 594, but I think you just helped me decide to look elsewhere. If I'm going to spend $1,700 on a guitar, I shouldn't have to upgrade those items. Thanks, Phil!

  • @davidthomas5035

    @davidthomas5035

    2 жыл бұрын

    Have you looked into G&L guitars?

  • @adama4791

    @adama4791

    Жыл бұрын

    If the only difference between the core and the s2 was the maple cap ie same pups and tuners then the s2 would be a fair bit more expensive

  • @davidwonpu353
    @davidwonpu353 Жыл бұрын

    Just a note that as of 2020 all McCartys have the non-locking tulip tuners, which brings the S2s even closer to Core spec. Also, the nut material is interesting because the Core has a bone nut but vintage Les Pauls have nylon nuts. Finally, the singlecut has a thicker body than the doublecut if you were wondering, 51mm vs 48mm. I think the thicknesses are the same as the Cores.

  • @aipsong
    @aipsong4 жыл бұрын

    Great comparison. I prefer the Core for its clarity and precision, and it is indeed beautiful! I have the SE Singlecut Korina, with US PRS pickups, and for an inexpensive guitar, it has class.

  • @greatvanzini
    @greatvanzini4 жыл бұрын

    That was excellent!

  • @jwall7847
    @jwall78474 жыл бұрын

    Another great comparison Phil. Thanks. I have an S2 single cut and I didn't care at all for the stock pups. Mudbuckers. I put Duncans in and now its my #1.

  • @richardparker6279

    @richardparker6279

    4 жыл бұрын

    I didn't like the pups in my S2 Singlecut so I put Bare Knuckle Rebel Yells in it. What a difference ! Sounds amazing now.

  • @eodnavigator
    @eodnavigator4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for such a comprehensive comparison. The contours of the guitar bodies is significant when it comes to playing comfortably. Any idea when guitar makers might let you select the S2 any pay for the better tuners or pickups. That $2,000 disparity just doesn't seem to buy you that much difference in value unless budget isn't an issue for the buyer. Thanks again for the terrific review!

  • @tobysteele1028
    @tobysteele10283 жыл бұрын

    Spot on assessment! Nicely done. Not that either one sounded bad, but to my ears I preferred the Core. Great comparisons. 😎

  • @arthurthompson8241
    @arthurthompson82414 жыл бұрын

    Late in life nothing else will matter except "how easy is it to play" "can I do gymnastics on the fret board with ease?" I didnt realize how much scale mattered until I got a 25 and found playing chords was easier, so be sure you try every size because for 50 yrs a LP was the wrong scale for me

  • @Colhogan06

    @Colhogan06

    3 жыл бұрын

    I tend to agree with you. I bought a Les Paul when I first started playing because it was the thing to have. I never played anything except a Les Paul because it was what I had and when I got a 2nd guitar it was again a Les Paul. I recently inherited a Stratocaster and it sat for a bit because it needed some work but I finally cleaned it up made it almost like new. When I played it I was amazed. I think in the last few months I may have picked up one of the Les Paul's once or twice. It seems like I always have that stratocaster in my hands. I really like the way it feels and plays.

  • @joshuajohnson4935

    @joshuajohnson4935

    3 жыл бұрын

    I’ve had the opposite. Have played strats for 25 years and finally just got a les Paul and find it so much easier to play. Though there’s thing I like about strat neck more, think cause it’s a little skinny width wise. I enjoy them both

  • @ThreeMiningHD

    @ThreeMiningHD

    3 жыл бұрын

    But a 25" scale lenght is even longer than a Les Paul? A les Paul has 24.75" What do you exactly mean? It would Help me

  • @arthurthompson8241

    @arthurthompson8241

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@ThreeMiningHD Maybe my hand fit better but it proved to me that it made so much difference that I played better. It was a cheap guitar from china so I searched and found out a PRS is 25 and its a very good guitar, bottom line is to try as many as you can to see which one feels right because thickness and string spacing also comes into it

  • @thatsamazin-

    @thatsamazin-

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@ThreeMiningHD the issue for him, more than likely, was how his hand was fitting around the neck. Not necessarily a problem with stretching out for chords and scales. The skinnier strat neck is slightly easier to wrap your hand around. Helps especially if you have small hands and use thumb for low E a lot when playing chords.

  • @fiveaces1029
    @fiveaces10294 жыл бұрын

    I agree 100% with your video and you're explanation. I have an S2 Singlecut and love it. The pick ups are definitely a factor that being said, I think perhaps the tuners play a small part in the mix. I also have two SE guitars. I upgraded my Custom 24 with new Tusq nut, locking tuners, and Dimarzio 36th Anniversary pickups. Still under $1,000 and kicks a$$! I love your videos. Please do more Sharpen my Axe!

  • @gavinleyfield3195
    @gavinleyfield31953 жыл бұрын

    Good job 👍

  • @panuwatpromdan5415
    @panuwatpromdan54153 жыл бұрын

    Another great video from you. FYI the neck blanks used for constructing S2 necks aer NOT quarter-sawn, they're all flat sawn glued together the way you described.

  • @azizaziz7007
    @azizaziz70073 жыл бұрын

    I bought a core after watching video. Can’t wait to play it

  • @rapha7007
    @rapha70074 жыл бұрын

    Great review Phillip! Can you please make a video on what to look for when buying a used PRS 594 Core? Thank you!

  • @a7xmabe
    @a7xmabe4 жыл бұрын

    I was GAS'ing so hard for the S2 but the pups and non locking tuners just killed it for me. I know you could easily swap those out but for that price you shouldn't have to. I guess I'll just save up for a Core. Great video Phil!

  • @grungebox

    @grungebox

    3 жыл бұрын

    Hmmmm... my 2019 S2 custom 22 has locking tuners. You sure?

  • @gonzoengineering4894
    @gonzoengineering48944 жыл бұрын

    The more gain the more I like the s2. Those cleans are night and day though, even I can imagine wanting the darker coil split in a few situations. It does make me wonder just how practical designing a guitar with versatility in mind actually is.

  • @MarkJohnsonJams
    @MarkJohnsonJams4 жыл бұрын

    The Core to me just has so much more clarity.

  • @pc3776

    @pc3776

    3 жыл бұрын

    Is that not just the difference in pickups though

  • @shane2973

    @shane2973

    3 жыл бұрын

    I agree...Tonally the Core sounds better to me EVERY TIME! All of the subtle details that add up to just a nicer instrument overall IMHO...I don't know if it's $2K better for everyone, but it is for me. I'm the guy that has 3 guitars, each with a specific job, verses having a collection of guitars. So because of that and I do not not mind spending the $ for them if I am able

  • @guitarmemoir
    @guitarmemoir2 жыл бұрын

    That was one of the best comparison video I have seen. Well done. The single cut sounded much better to my ears. If you are PRS why not charge $200.00 more and put in the same pickups...maybe so people will buy a set of 57/08s?

  • @maekong2010
    @maekong20103 жыл бұрын

    I find your breakdowns and presentation style informative. Much appreciated.

  • @JaniceLalla
    @JaniceLalla4 жыл бұрын

    I enjoy your playing.

  • @JD-nh7vb
    @JD-nh7vb Жыл бұрын

    Buy a 10th anniversary S2 594 and you get the core pickups. I picked one up and it is a fantastic guitar.

  • @AkiraSpectrum
    @AkiraSpectrum4 жыл бұрын

    Great video Phil! G&B pickups are decent but it is quite apparent that the PRS USA pickups are much more dynamic, crisp, clear, etc. Although sound is subjective and some may want the deeper low end, etc. Either way, having played both myself, both instruments are fantastic. The core is definitely the better instrument but the s2 is a great guitar in itself--especially if you upgrade the pickups. As you mention, upgrading the tuners will also provide some improvements, although the S2 tuners are still more than adequate.

  • @darrelpennington3489
    @darrelpennington34893 жыл бұрын

    I ? I have the utmost respect for you , I hear the same tone in both. I have a S2 SC love it Thumb screws at the bridge that actually turn , profile of the neck , on & on . Wish more people new about the quality of the McCarty. Yet another great video !

  • @jackhood4448
    @jackhood4448Ай бұрын

    Another great one from Phill. Hope to meet you at sweetwater one day.

  • @doctoribanez
    @doctoribanez3 жыл бұрын

    I would like to see you swap the neck pickups between the 2 and do it again. To see how much if any the extra maple difference

  • @iTrove
    @iTrove3 жыл бұрын

    Interesting, as I look for a America Made, this was great. I could hear the difference in every comparison with the Core being to my liking. The difference in money at my skill level would be wasted if I chose the Core over the S2, but ... I want it none the less.

  • @Slaghill

    @Slaghill

    Жыл бұрын

    These days, American made guitars have very low quality control. Very poor quality instruments being made in the US over the last 10 years.

  • @iTrove

    @iTrove

    Жыл бұрын

    @@Slaghill So what is your personal flavor as far as make / mgr and country of origin?

  • @mpactdesignmedia
    @mpactdesignmedia4 жыл бұрын

    I was lucky enough to score an S2 594 McCarty Thinline 'used' from Sweetwater - it's an absolutely FANTASTIC instrument. I am ALL about the S2 line. Best valued high quality guitar line built, imo.

  • @gr8tnowwhat
    @gr8tnowwhat4 жыл бұрын

    I think you nailed this comparison. Such a slight difference and like you said, do an upgrade on the S2 with tuners, nut and pickups and you're probably there with a much lower investment than going to the Core.

  • @edgardoparales2957

    @edgardoparales2957

    4 жыл бұрын

    Luey Sixty-six You can Buy a non Prs PU to put in S2 theres Gibson Lollars Duncan EMGs .it doesn’t have to be PRS PU isn’t it?

  • @johnorr7467
    @johnorr74672 жыл бұрын

    I love the warmth in S2 pick-ups. Sold me

  • @kristianmarvin2842
    @kristianmarvin28424 жыл бұрын

    Sharpen my axe maybe? Would love to see the s2 upgraded

  • @fatfro1

    @fatfro1

    3 жыл бұрын

    I think he decided to sell the S2

  • @maje8ty
    @maje8ty4 жыл бұрын

    Nice comparison! I believe the 2020 Core 594's share the same vintage style tuning keys as the S2 594's.

  • @sixstringguitarist1937
    @sixstringguitarist1937 Жыл бұрын

    I've got a 2022 S2 Custom 24. While yes sadly has 85/15s pick ups with a bit of tweaking the Middle, Treble and Bass a touch on my amp I've got it sounding less muddy than they normally are and I've now put the idea of getting some Dragon 2 pick ups to rest. ( Well for now anyways 😂) My amp is a 1973 Fender Bassman Ten Silverface housed in a custom 1x12 enclosure ( like an oversize 65 Deluxe Reverb enclosure kinda thing) So all my guitars sound killer through the amp with the Pedalboard etc but certainly the S2 Custom 24 PRS is absolutely winning all the way and has become my main guitar now. Cool vid as always Phill 😎🎸

  • @sidvicioux
    @sidvicioux4 жыл бұрын

    handy vid. well done. thx man!

  • @danielguitar5150
    @danielguitar51504 жыл бұрын

    The S2 McCarty 594 singlecut is thicker body, would be closer comparison to your core. Great review!

  • @HalfDeadGeezers

    @HalfDeadGeezers

    4 жыл бұрын

    I was going to make this point so.,... Yeah..... What Daniel says. Single cut has more wood than double cut.

  • @yhzh2002
    @yhzh20024 жыл бұрын

    The more recent core Mccarty 594s have moved to vintage style tuners as well.

  • @jaydean3543
    @jaydean35434 жыл бұрын

    * Moral of the story * Buy a S2 and get a set of USA 58/15 LT pickups....... Save a buttload of $$$$$

  • @gorlagOv

    @gorlagOv

    3 жыл бұрын

    Are you really saving that much money? Good luck finding a set of 58/15 LT, pick ups under 800 to 1k for a set. The s2 new is 1600 to 1800. At lowest you spend 2500, with inferior tuners in my opinion. I got my core for 2900. It’s awesome.

  • @thezeek2745

    @thezeek2745

    3 жыл бұрын

    The carve versus the bevel is so huge to me though. The bevel looks like I could have made it.

  • @gorlagOv

    @gorlagOv

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@thezeek2745 honestly having an s2 and a core I half agree. I enjoy the sound and aesthetics of my core more than the s2. the amount of money you can put into the s2 over time, if you want, would buy a core. That being said the s2 carve is better for for playing the edges on all the cores and CEs I’ve played have been a little sharp. If they did the maple binding on a core with an s2 carve I would be happy.

  • @musicandthewalk

    @musicandthewalk

    Жыл бұрын

    Thats my plan.

  • @steviesynapse

    @steviesynapse

    Жыл бұрын

    @@thezeek2745 totally agree, it’s not a good look!

  • @raisermusic9329
    @raisermusic93293 жыл бұрын

    First thank you Phil for a real informative post and all the time you spent on this. I agree with Simon. I equally didn't understand why PRS for years used a cheap 10 numbered Potentiometer Knob on a 5 position Rotary Switch?? For me it would have ben interesting to hear how the two guitars compare acoustically. ( not listening on a cell phone of course) I build guitars myself and I understand that it's not just the pickups that make the sound at all. You took the "used string" argument out of the equation - perfect. In respect of the difference I'm hearing on my Studio Speakers, I would save up for the 594. In the end, considering all the time we spend in finding the right amp, stomp boxes, effects, composing and recording the "perfect" song, - it all starts with the best guitar we can get. Equally true with microphones etc. Thanks again!!

  • @TheMightyPirateTm
    @TheMightyPirateTm4 жыл бұрын

    The core is a lot clearer that the S2, but I don't think I'll every spend that much on a guitar to be honest. Great video Phil!

  • @brandonbryson3317

    @brandonbryson3317

    4 жыл бұрын

    Borislav Mihailov it’s just pickups...$200 and you’ve got the clarity

  • @BarCynBeaulieu
    @BarCynBeaulieu5 ай бұрын

    I got a Gibson SG and it plays very much like it should , it's amazing , it looks very good and it's got a ebony fingerboard ... if these new style 'Gibson' prs guitars were so very great then all Gibson's would be selling for half price ...

  • @chrissinclair3136
    @chrissinclair3136 Жыл бұрын

    man that clean neck pickup comparison ....completely sold on the core...straight off you can appreciate the difference

  • @bigg4454
    @bigg44544 жыл бұрын

    Great vid Phil. I owned an S2 Standard 22 and it was "okay". I must admit, I fell for the "okie doke". I mean, in my opinion, the S2 is a guitar that gives you the opportunity to say you got one made in the USA, but once I found out that it wasn't totally the case I was disappointed. I figure my Korean made, 2018, 245 SE is just as good or even better (for me anyway). What do S2 and SE have in common? G&B pickups, electronics, hardware........the S2's are beveled mahogany table scraps. Like I said they're okay, but I like my 2018 SE 245. I threw set of DiMarzio EJ Customs in it, a Tusq nut, upgraded to PRS locking tuners and I'm happy with it. To each his or her own. It was nice of Paul to make the move in 2000 (SE) and 2013 (S2) to offer folks who otherwise couldn't afford to purchase a PRS (core) guitar a chance to obtain one by adding more affordable lines. Just sayin'.

  • @pathowell3313
    @pathowell33134 жыл бұрын

    The S2’s should have the same pick ups as the core series in my opinion. They are using the same pick ups as the SE series. This pick up issue kind of devalues The “made in Maryland” selling point. And the cost can’t be that much more. They are just using the different pick ups as pricing leverage.

  • @PhillipMcKnight

    @PhillipMcKnight

    4 жыл бұрын

    I agree,

  • @pathowell3313

    @pathowell3313

    4 жыл бұрын

    I wanted to add that about 10 years ago (before SE even existed), I got a Core Series mahogany Hollow Body II with piezo (The Brazilian Rosewood fretboard was enforced by CITES) and it was only $3,700. Prices have really skyrocketed on many of them. The piezo really only sounded good when plugged into a separate Acoustic amp. I sold the PRS, and I ended up getting a 24 Fret custom made hollow body with no Piezo feature. I got much more “bite“ with the 24 fret guitar and I was able to tap each humbucker. Basically the builder gets the bodies and necks made overseas and then he does The fret work, the finishing, and he installs top of the line US wiring, pots, and Seymour Duncan pick ups (or other pick ups if you desire). The frets are leveled and polished, and the intonation is perfect. There are a couple of people out there doing this type of thing (Think of the character with the name Flintstone) but I must say the person I used builds a great guitar - fully hollow with no center block. It’s a copy of Trey Anastasio’s Languedoc. It does not have Piezo, but you can get an awesome guitar with case for under $2000. I’ve always wanted PRS to make a 24 fret hollow body Because their fit and finish is a step above. The 24 fret length seems to be better suited to rock music, while still giving you the ability to tweak the pick ups and tone for softer jazz, etc

  • @fragtagninja1633

    @fragtagninja1633

    4 жыл бұрын

    Yeah those S2 pickups are poopy. The core guitar definitely sounds better. Even if it's just because of the pickups.

  • @fatfro1

    @fatfro1

    3 жыл бұрын

    Good point.

  • @jackbaker9404

    @jackbaker9404

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you Mr Miner

  • @SiggyMe
    @SiggyMe3 жыл бұрын

    Phil, very thorough run down and I really like the idea at the end about swapping out the pickups and tuners which cost wise to get the best of both guitars. I wonder what the weight of the S2 was? Thanks!

  • @wolverine3344
    @wolverine33444 жыл бұрын

    Locking tuners or bust. I have to reconsider my S2 594 plans, disappointing muddy pups for $1800 is heard to digest.

  • @dogrocketp1807

    @dogrocketp1807

    4 жыл бұрын

    * WOLVERINE * play the neck, nothing even comes close to the intonation on a PRS. I’ve been playing for over 50 years. Didn’t play a PRS until 10 years ago. Sold every other solid body.

  • @wolverine3344

    @wolverine3344

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@dogrocketp1807 Thanks Dog Rocket, I have 2 SE's and do like the necks, but neither tone does it for me. Was hoping they used better pickups on an American made guitar this expensive. Still up in the air, appreciate the helpful advice. Thanks

  • @JPIndustrie

    @JPIndustrie

    4 жыл бұрын

    I'd say if you're playing with more gain the 85/15 S may not be bad. I play a Mark IV lead channel mostly and it is a great tone, where as my R8 with more vintage style pickups do not do as well IMO. Either way the S2 out of the box was the closest in feel to a 57 Junior I played; I could never say that about new Gibsons even the custom shop Jr reissue...

  • @allend3127

    @allend3127

    3 жыл бұрын

    * WOLVERINE * I’m with you on the pickups. They’re not my favorite. I can find some good sounds with the split coils, but they unique and few. Not the everyday sound that I want to play with nor the versatility. I have to say though, pickups are easy to change out. The feel and play of a guitars shape and body is special. I love PRS S2s for having that factor. I’m considering putting in either Bare Knuckle Mules or Abraxas pickups. I’m even looking at potentially putting a pair of Seymour Duncan Saturday Night Specials in my S2 McCarty.

  • @McSlobo

    @McSlobo

    3 жыл бұрын

    Pup and tuner switch ain't hard to do but of course the guitar with that price point should be otherwise close to perfect to make it worth the effort.

  • @DixonWh2
    @DixonWh227 күн бұрын

    Here in 2024! I recently purchased a S2 594, which now comes equipped with the "USA" pickups. I A/B'd between the S2 and a SE. The S2 just felt a bit better and had more clarity, at least to my ears. I'm just amazed at how consistent these guitars are and how well the non-core lines play. This review helped guide me to the 594. Thanks!

  • @JackTheRabbitMusic
    @JackTheRabbitMusic4 жыл бұрын

    ...for recording, I would take the Core; for gigging, I would take the S2. I don't own any PRS, and I have never played a PRS, so I have no idea what I am talking about! 😂 I'm just a silly rabbit. 🐰🎸🤘 P.S Hi Phil! ❤️🙂

  • @abefroman8202

    @abefroman8202

    4 жыл бұрын

    Brilliant!!!!!!

  • @mer1red

    @mer1red

    4 жыл бұрын

    Shame on you, offending our race! :‑( We have big ears, so we are excellent in hearing the smallest details in the music.

  • @JackTheRabbitMusic

    @JackTheRabbitMusic

    4 жыл бұрын

    mer red 👍🏼