Did you guys prefer the bright punch of the Strat, or the fuller more rounded tone of the Silver Sky? Guitar links: Fender Player Strat- imp.i114863.net/vnvnPv SE Silver Sky - imp.i114863.net/BXYXK4 Enjoy :)
I definitely preferred the Fender. I was expecting them to sound more similar than they did! I would not give up the clarity of the Fender for the warmth of the PRS because, as Silver Paladin wrote, you can always go a little darker by rolling off the tone.
@@davidlawrence701 that Nick Johnson strat is really nice. I have an American Professional HSS strat that I love, but that’s a different price range than these. I agree though, the Schecter is great.
Personally I like the warmer tones of the PRS, but it's not a replacement for the strat. It's a great addition to the strat, because there's a tone for certain songs you just need a strat for. And there's nothing wrong with adding another guitar!
The objective of the Silver Sky was never to mimic the sound of a brand new, modern Fender Strat; John Mayer even said himself that the point was to produce a new guitar which would mimic the slightly demagnetized sound of an aged Strat built in the 60s, and they used a Strat like that for reference. The difference in sound is not meant to be the difference between a Strat and a non-Strat, so much as it is that between a new Strat and a vintage Strat. Some people prefer the sound of a new Strat, and that's fine! But honestly I suspect that nobody would be able to tell the difference in a mix.
I think It's the best strat I've ever played, by huge margin. I had a really nice burgandy mist CV Strat with a matching headstock, and I added a gold anodized aluminum pickguard and backplate; it was dope, but after buying a stone blue Silver Sky I knew I'd never play another SSS Strat again; it was the EXACT Strat tone and feel I had been after for literally decades. So I sold the other to my brother. The Silver Sky just beats every other Strat so hard in my opinion. (Or it does for my playing style at least.) I didn't want my cool purple Strat to never get played, so I'm glad it's in good hands. I knew my brother would play it all the time, so I gave him a really good deal. He's lovin' it. Those Squier Classic Vibe Strats are really nice. For Squiers they're gettin' pricey though. Man, this is the most rambley comment ever. I need to stop typing like WAY earlier. Or just not comment next time I'm this obnoxiously high. TL;DR I think the Silver Sky (Specifically the SE, not the core model) is just the bee's knees.
@@calvinlee8103 I had a MIM strat with ceramic pickups once. Had a beautiful warm tone, but unfortunately had to sell it to pay my rent. Never found another that sounded like that, but the Silver Sky is pretty damn close!
Have to be honest ... can't get over that strat sound!!! Its golden.. that chime ...gets me everytime. The se silver sky sounds very nice as well... I wouldn't be opposed to owning one .
I own the PRS SE Silver Sky ( Evergreen version ) and it is absolutely fantastic. The warmth and clarity really shines when chasing those ever important triad inversions. I will never doubt Fender ever because they’re guitar gods but the Silver Sky is CLEAN and you just want to stop in the middle of a great line and hug it.
I was a stubborn Fender Strat man. After watching numerous video reviews, especially this one by Darrell, I ventured into the PRS world after also playing another guitarist Silver Sky. Now while I haven't completely converted to PRS, I am no longer a Fender snob.
Hi Darrell, I have watched a number of the videos you have posted, and enjoyed them all. Your knowledge, enthusiasm and sincerity are a huge part of what makes these videos what they are. It's refreshing to have a perspective that remains positive, even while critical. Nothing flashy, nothing over the top, just straight ahead, honest reviews, comparisons and assessments. Keep up the great work!
I bought a MIM Strat months before even knowing PRS was releasing the SE Silver Sky. Kind of wish I had that time back. The PRS body and features are better indeed. Sound wise, they're close enough for my tinnitus-riddled ears.
I thought the same thing and they even increased the fingerboard radius on these. The SE's have an 8.5 radius which will feel a lot more normal to most players. Compared to the vintage style 7.25 radius on the American Silver Sky's
@@iAutodidact I don't regret getting the Strat, per se. Used it for some amazing recording and sounds great. But if the Silver Sky was out then, and I had a chance to compare the 2, well, that's water under the bridge :-)
They are both fantastic guitars! I find my PRS guitars easier to play than Fender but that's just me. I love different things about each. I have not played a silver sky yet but I do have a Strat, a PRS SE245 and a PRS Starla I play them each for their differences. I'd really love to own a Silver Sky but a Revstar is next.
I think the deal breaker for me is the silver sky routing configuration. I love the idea of dropping a different pickguard on a Stratocaster and going from single coil to humbuckers if I so choose to. Also aftermarket parts. The Stratocaster is king because it’s the Chevy small block 350 of guitars.
You got that exactly right! There are so many aftermarket parts for the Strat,and I have fallen down that rabbit hole! EMG DG20,Fishman fluence,locking tuners,and so on.... But seriously, for $850? (I paid $750 less than a year ago) So the price is rising, like everything else,and when they get to$1000 I just might sell! And that other guitar? PRS on the headstock is all you need to know.
@@mikedrake9572 I have had probably 7 or 8 Stratocasters over the last 2 decades. Ranging from vintage specs to modern. I had a Clapton artist model that I loved the sound of but didn’t like the V shaped neck. I had a 50’s classic series which I guess would be a Vintera series today, loved the neck on it but didn’t care for the 7.25” radius. My main Stratocaster since 2001 was an American Series that I have experimented on. Fat 50’s is what I’ve landed on after about 7 different pickups including full humbuckers. I doubt I buy a PRS Silver Sky as I’m perfectly satisfied with the American Series. But that doesn’t mean it’s not a great guitar (silver sky) I just tend not to stray away from my all time favorite guitar.
@@DinsdalePiranha67 I can't think of 2 things that has more after market parts for it! Both kick ass, and both can be hot rodded up for relatively low amounts of money! Who doesn't love a small block Chevy? Conversely who doesn't love a Stratocaster? Les Pauls and Telecasters are cool but the aftermarket parts list is a fraction to what you can find for a Strat! Ford 302 5.0 for 80's and 90's Mustangs might come close to having as many parts as Chevy 350 but man are those parts not cheaper on the Chevy! Take care my fellow guitar grease monkey!
Gotta be the Strat. I thought the tone of the Fender was superior. I know i can dial down the brightness of the Fender but can I dial up the rounded tone of the PRS? I give credit for the contouring of the PRS and the light weight however I think the wood in the Fender is superior. Finally I think the curb appeal of the Fender blows the PRS out of the water.
Actually back then, Leo Fender chose alder and ash is because it's cheap and the wood is hard so it's good for screws. You can Google to check out this info.
I replaced the saddles with the blocks on my two point and it is perfection. Otherwise I prefer the classic trem. And once you crack the code a classic them can be set up to without being blocked or clamped down and keep tune even with going whammy crazy.
I love all of my PRS guitars--but I also love all of my Fenders. But my visual taste buds really love the Fender colors. Good demo. Rock on and Stay Well Groovy One!
I actually prefer the screw in trem arm. I recently bought a US Pro Strat II which has a pop in arm and I'm fighting with it so so much. Sure the pop in mechanism itself works well, but it's always starting to loosen over time and then you have to re-adjust or re-tighten the set-screw knowing that in a couple of weeks, it'll start wiggle again. With the screw-in arm, imho, it is old-school, yes, but it's more stable.
I thought they sounded very similar, but I thought the PRS sounded slightly smoother. For me, I thought the PRS had a more noticeable twang in the 2nd position. For the price point,I give the PRS a narrow win.
Having wound up with both examples this past year I can’t get past how much better the PRS in terms of thoughtful design… the volume knob for example is a stiffer feel than the two tone knobs… if you’re the type to accidentally smack the volume knob you will appreciate that. The pickups are so much more balanced and the slightly warmer tone is a nice touch (to me). The SE is a excellent instrument! I’m very pleased with mine 😁
I've never really gotten along with standard Strat pickups, as I find them too scooped and spikey. The SE SS sounded much fuller with the mids more forward and tone in all positions more rounder and smooth to my ears. SE SS would be the guitar for me for a S style guitar over the Fender players series.
@@gjw45 True enough, but usually you need mids to blend and pop out more in a mix, and Strats are notorious for their slight mid scoop in their tones. Hence why people either swap out standard Fender Strat pickups for something like a DiMarzio FS-1 or why so many Strat players love Tubescreamer style overdrives especially if they are playing through Fender or Fender style amps.
They’re more similar in their tones than different. So if you don’t get along with strat pickups, the SS SE is gonna give you the same trouble. I do hear a slightly fuller mid in the prs but it’s still essentially in the same ballpark.
@@Itsallawesome well I do have 3 so yeah I am. I do have a Strat copy with single coil sized rail humbuckers in all positions with split coil switching for all of them, so that guitar can get me a traditional Strat sound when I occasionally want or need it.
I have that exact Strat... and it is just beautiful. For me it was closer to my perfect strat than anything more expensive in their catalogue... (Nice shiny maple board and original headstock with all the logos...) and that maple top 😍😍😍😍 My only real gripes? The fretwork is a tiny bit sharp, not a deal breaker, but you can definitely feel them. So a little fretwork with a file. And the bent steal saddles are not my style... Block saddles are on their way. The other thing i did was switch in Lace Sensors, (Red, Silver, Blue,) They're way punchier... but still have clear tones. So for less than $1500 Australian, it's just the perfect strat... in my eyes anyway 😍😍 The only other change i would have made, were it an option: Sting through body hardtail.
Was looking for a strat to compliment a Gibson LP classic. Played 3 player strats and one silver sky, went home with the silver sky because the different tones, feel of the neck and it was already set up. Intonation was pretty much perfect not to mention a month later the thing just stays in tune. great guitar for the price!
For me it usually comes down to what comes better from the factory. In this PRS wins hands down. I've never owned a Fender that I didn't have to take to my tech for a setup and/or a fret level/dress. The same can be said for many brands and I'll usually send new guitars in to my tech anyway. However, I've never had to send a PRS or Hamer to get set up. They've always come pretty much perfect only requiring a quick truss rod adjustment as the seasons change. The truth is I'd be happy with either of these guitars but most likely I'd have to shell out some cash to get the Fender playing like I think it should.
Same. Even my American Deluxe strat got sent in to my local guitar shop. To be honest though it didn't make a huge difference, though the tech did a great job on it. I have a core model PRS, a Custom 22 with a solid rosewood neck. I wanted my Fender to play as good as the PRS, but even after the tech going over the fretboard it still doesn't play as well as my PRS. My strat is still my favorite guitar though, and it gets played more than my PRS. 🤷🏻♂️ IF you want to hear my guitars you can search my name on RUclips. I have a few videos.
I have that exact SS SE and I'm in love with it, and that's a lot coming from a mainly Gibson dude. It's been hard to put it down since I got it last month. Great video!
Years back I made this same choice, Fender Player or PRS SE EG. I chose the PRS and now having played friends Fenders I'm completely satisfied that I made the right choice, I have an HSS EG in tobacco burst and I'd take it over any Strat I've ever played. Unlike the Silver Sky, mine has all metal tuners , I'm convinced that PRS does a better job of setting up the guitar before it's shipped to a dealer, with Fender it feels a bit hit or miss, some are good but others can feel just awful, especially the fret work.
I have a Player Series Strat and I love it! For me, I don’t really see the point in buying a very similar Strat knock-off design for the same price as the official thing. The PRS headstock looks very weird to me. The fact that the Player has a Fender logo on it will mean a lot to people which will effect resale value.
I feel like some things do not add up like Darrell describes them. For instance, versatility is a thing he mentions a couple times, but let's not forget that the Silver Sky was intended as a signature model, which for example may have affected how many colors PRS decided to put out there. 🧐 Great video regardless! ❤️
Would love to see you do a 3 way with a comparable G&L tribute... just saying that seeing some of Leo's last work might be very interesting as opposed to a more legacy stuff. Oh and the price point would be very similar as well.
Have to go with the Fender for that 'chime.' A small adjustment and you can get the darker tone of the PRS, but you can't get the PRS up to the Strat chime. The Indonesians are great craftsmen. I have an LTD I bought for grins, and the quality was just astounding. But, the Corona-Ensenada partnership keeps the Fender 'thang' going . . . all American . . .
For my ear, only the Strat has that trademark jangle and spank its famous for. The Sky appears better made, has more sustain and richer, smoother tone but sounds less "Strat like". Bottom line, if youre playing blues, country, classic 50's thru 70's vintage rock and want an axe that retains value, get the Strat. Want a more modern tone? Get a Sky.
You realize the silver sky pickups are literally replicas of vintage strat pickups. Idk how fender could be any more authentic. JM pickups are built from johns old strats. Most modern fenders pickups just don’t sound good. They’ve very thin
@@llwonder One can also say the newer Dodge Challengers are faster, more advanced, safer in crash tests, yada, yada, yada, but thete's something sorely lacking in both versus the originals. This is WHY the originals of each fetch HUGE money, while their newer versions do not.
@@llwonder this comment here, ppl don’t realize that vintage guitars have thicker tones. The newer pick ups don’t replicate it unless you get pots and pick ups. So I’d take the PRs it’s almost like the TMG
@@nazinas21 vintage guitars don’t have thicker tones. In fact many of them are very low output because they didn’t have the capability of manufacturing like today. “Hot” pickups aren’t better, and vintage aren’t hot generally. Vintage guitars are incredibly unpredictable with what you’re getting. Some vintage pickups sound awful while some sound good. In the 60s they handwound everything and there was little consistency. Today’s manufacturing is way more reliable and pickups will sound more similar than vintage pickups will. PRS knocked it out of the park with the silver sky pickups and they sound better than any other strat pickup. It’s exactly what I want out of a strat
There’s a reason there’s been so little change from the first strat to today’s strat. Leo got it real close to perfect from the start. They need to bring back rosewood on the MIMs. No hate on PRS. Ima ascared of burds.
I think the PRS SS bring variety to the mix, rather than copying the Fender Strat per se. I would rather have this rather than a basic clone of the Fender Strat. To each its own, this is a positive for both. Nevertheless, why limit yourself to one, get both and have the variety and creative flexibilities!
I've always been a PRS guy, myself. I recently got a Fender (first legit Fender strat for me) and as a couple of people said here it came pretty dreadful from the factory. In fact I had to return the first one and get a replacement because the solder job inside the first one was awful and I was having issues with not getting any sound in certain positions because of it. But even the second one I got has some pretty major issues with the fret work. Bend a little too far and the first string will get stuck under the 4th fret haha. I've never had an issue with a PRS. From their lowest level SE all the way to the ridiculously expensive core models they all come 100% ready out of the box. Meticulous attention to detail. BUT... I can see how some would prefer the twang of a classic strat. Sounds phenomenal. Silver Sky is no slouch either. It's a little fatter and warmer... more round. For me... Love the classic vibe of my Fender... It's iconic and just feels special in hand... but I wish I had a Silver Sky.
Lol Ah see the fraudulent Darrel is asking you tae PM him too I’ve heard all kindsa bad stuff about the entire fender strat range n was saving my money for a silver sky se. I ended up with a revelation RTS 62 and it’s about perfect 👌🏼for a quarter of the money I would urge anyone who’s into s type guitars to have a blast on one ay the revelation ones they’re just a bloody good guitar n genuinely kick fenders square In the tuning keys 🤣
Many great strat/tele players are playing with non-Fender guitars now. Suhr is very popular for the fender sub. Suhr really are in detail for tone and playability.
@Mark Seymour well of the 7 PRS electrics and 3 acoustics I've owned over the last 20 years they were all on point. Aside from having to adjust intonation on one of them, I've never needed a setup from the jump on any of them. Certainly never had sloppy electronic work or jacked up frets on any. So generally speaking I'd say the factory pays incredible attention to detail as opposed to most.
@Mark Seymour yeah I'm in the US, and that's right... they essentially set them up in Maryland before shipping. Both the SE models and the core models go through the exact same process, so even the cheap ones are getting the same thorough once over that the $5k ones get.
Every position sounded slightly different, but the Fender sounded better on the neck pickup. For me, that's my favourite position and I would choose the Fender. I have and AM Strat from 2004 with SCN pickups, and the PRS sounded more like that in the neck position. Nothing wrong with it, and I like the SCN pickups now that I have them dialled in to suit me, but I'm baffled by the PRS guitar. Why bring out a version of a strat, with almost the same features at the same price point?
@@swaggettiyolonese2373 lol. That's the butthurtest comment in this vid. I just said I preferred the strat tones in this very particular video with the settings this particular user had at the moment, not that the strat is completely superior product.
You definitely have more choices with the Fender, and frankly I love that. On the other hand the PRS is super sweet and overall I really appreciate what it has to offer. That said, i wish PRS had not gone the "cheap looking" route for certain aspects of the Silver Sky. The gray plastic tuner buttons and truss rod cover REALLY detract from the looks. And yes, looks matter. If they had went a bit "nicer" it would have really improved the looks and therefore increased interest (IMO). So for me, I wish they had a Silver Sky with the choices the Fender has, and the LOOKS that it has as well. You can go "modern" without looking cheap, but I don't think PRS and "your body is a wonderland" got that memo. It is one of the things that really made me tilt my head when reviewing PRS's complete lineup. The Silver Sky simply looks.... cheap. It's a GREAT guitar though, so that is frustrating. Now for sound... simply put, it's not an issue. Both sound great, and both can be MADE to sound damn near the same. We all know that all strats don't sound "the same" anyways, and your sound is determined by many factors. What amps are you using? What settings are you using? What effects are you using? And on and on. That all said, I would take either, and recement either. I don't think you lose either way. Cheers!
@@cMaslow agree with you, and when Darrell talks about the Strat, he also mentions the possibilities for making changes to pickups, color etc. They do not have locking tuners which I prefer. So the plastic knobs on the PRS / color don't bother me as I would change out to locking tuners as I have on 3 other PRS guitars that I now own. Weight is also the big plus as I've gotten older, the Les Paul now sits at home to be played. The Pao Ferro just does not attract me in the least. I'm a rosewood person. Fender's QC also has been lacking in more recent times on fret edges etc. The screw in vibrato bar is very old school; great if you want the vintage look. Square block at the neck joint also a no go for me. I still enjoy Fenders, but in the comparison, PRS is my choice.
Since the Silver Sky se was announced, it has been “on the way” at Sweetwater and on order at Guitar Center. I just bought a player strat and couldn’t be happier. The lack of availability made the choice easy.
Kind of wish PRS would add a nice veneer and do a transparent finish on the Silver Sky like on that “Plus Top” Strat. (I have a Plus top tele in blueburst, it’s sweet).
I honestly thought the Strat sounded just a bit better but it was so close that you should just buy whichever you liked better and be happy you got a killer instrument.
I'm going to be honest with you, tonally, I prefer both for different positions. I think the thing that really pushes it over the top for me is its intonation. It's pretty clear that the Silver Sky keeps the tuning pretty spot on all over the neck while the strat had some clear intonation issues (assuming that the guitar was in tune to begin with).
@@louiscyfer6944 easy on the roid rage. The guy is just confused. The silver sky does stay in tune far better though which is a big advantage. Ultimately it depends what sort of sound people want because they both have their pluses, overall if I could only afford to buy one or the other though I would definitely go with the prs. Can't beat the quality, sound, tone, and the fact that it stays in tune better. That's just a bonus. If I had to guess I would say more people are let down with a fender instrument than they are with PRS. I know I am. I wish I would have not bought my strat and gone for a PRS instead and saved a bit more.
@@louiscyfer6944 I know that's not true because I also have fender. It does not stay in tune perfectly. Specifically the g-string. Any guitarist would know this though so you just outed yourself. The reason I mentioned roid rage is because of your profile pic. It's kind of obvious bro.
I owned a vintage 1960 Strat for 20 years. I had to sell in hard times, but when I eventually went looking for a replacement in 1994, I found a new USA G&L Legacy. I have never regretted that purchase. G&Ls are the best!
I have a lot of guitars all kinds of brands. I love this SE Silver Sky so much I sold my USA model. I see no need to keep it. I like the radius better on the SE and the pickups are slightly hotter than my USA which I like. The Trem is just a better design also. I love Fender, but PRS is killing it with these. I think the smartest business move is PRS - Maryland inspects and sets up every one of these SE guitars. This is the game changer. When the player gets it, it is right. Fender just sends them out I suppose. Kudos to PRS for that, and I hope they never change that operation. It sets them apart in quality. Also I appreciate Darrel Braun, super informative, and a great channel.
I’m with you, had a player series, have an American pro 2. Player series doesn’t come close in any category but paint to this silver sky which I’ve had for a month.
I like the PRS a little better. The Strat sounded better in all positions to my ears except position 3 where I thought the PRS excelled. The Strat, arguably has better hardware and I like a maple fretboard better on a Strat-type guitar rather than rosewood. Still, there is something sexy about the PRS in its simplicity that I like. :)
You got the pickup test right as well :D. Though the only thing I like with the PRS is the Contour for higher fret access. I hope Fender would do that on all player series in the future.
A little over a month ago I bought the Schecter Nick Johnson instead of the PRS SE Silver Sky. I tried both in the store and preferred the Schecter for comfort in the neck and body. But after a few days I realized that the sound of the Strat and other Fender models is not equaled by any brand. Everyone wants to copy them but just like a Gibson Les Paul they are unique.The I love Schecter NJ because it has its own sound and in construction it is impeccable, without any factory flaws. Better than any Fender.
I preferred the PRS in single coil positions, and the Fender by a mile in the in between positions. Great time to be a guitarist, as there are multiples of great options in every price point.
Thanks for this comparison Darrell... I bought a fender player just a few weeks ago and I'm ❤️ing it. I agree completely with you. The fender neck isn't as finished as my other PRS SE (245)... But man... it just plays and sound like a fender... I think the silversky sounds a bit muddy for a strat (though they are very close, and the ss sounds great as well) The PRS plastic tunners are a definite turn-off for me (looks sooo cheep), even on the full blown silver sky.
I own a 2003 MIM standard strat (modded with a Tex-Mex loaded pickguard)and though I have never played one , to me the PRS just sounds better. more balanced through the lows, mids and highs.
Just went to my guitar store with the intention of walking out with a Silversky SE under my arm. However, I decided to try out the fender player just in case. I ended up buying the strat. Personally, I found that the SE felt much lighter and "cheaper", with loose knobs and tuning pegs. I preferred the tone on the strat as well as the playability. The SE has a thicker neck, which I personally dislike, as it will make it unnecessarily hard to play songs such as neon (which is ironic, considering it's sponsored by Mayer). Sorry PRS fans, but the strat's the goat. Always has, always will be
Exactly what I discovered at the guitar store a few days ago. It may come down to personal preference but all Silver Sky‘s I tried felt cheap compared to Fender Strats in the same price range.
Not sure about the SE models, but I bought the USA Silver Sky and returned it within hours. Nothing wrong with it, just wasn't for me. Unlike so many signature guitars, the Silver Sky is a very specific guitar made for a very specific person, and I am not that person :)
Sound wise…I prefer the Silver Sky. I also like that headstock “look” a little better and I like a darker non lacquered fretboard. The rolled fretboard edges and nicer fretwork is a big win for me as well. The PRS designed trem also gets my vote. I prefer to see the wood grain on my guitars so I would want a translucent finish. If I was trying to decide on one now….. I would not be choosing either of these today. I would wait for the new colors on the new PRS or maybe an SE Fiore if that’s introduced next and gets a rosewood fretboard. As things really stand in my guitar closet… I love my G&L Legacy…. Even with the maple fretboard. Never thought I would have liked it as much as I did when I picked it up. The best Strat that I have ever played!
Intonation on the PRS is far better than the Strat. Smoother transitions in sound with the PRS as well from PU to PU because they are three of the same pickups which is what I like in any T style guitar.
Definitely not a guitarist, but I always enjoy checking out this channel. For this one? I preferred the PRS tones overall, but I found I liked the Fender tone for position 2. Otherwise, if I suddenly decided I needed one of these 2 guitars, I'd take the PRS hands down. Keep up the great vids Darrell!
@@leicesterblackthorne9699 it’s like the PRS lost a big chunk of lows and most of the mids in P2, which is strange because otherwise it sounds much fuller and balanced than the Fender (at least to my ears)
I’ve owned both and the fit and finish especially on the frets and neck on the SE were just better and the instrument just felt and sounded like it was better quality and the setup on the SE was way better as well out of box so I knew the guitar had been inspected by PRS in the US which fender I don’t think does on imports.
Hi Darrel! Huge fan, just one observation on your comparison, the fender you can get it with different pickup configs, Hss being my fav. Love your channel!
Gotta go with Fender. It wins on all fronts for me. And that PRS headstock… ugghh. A note about the screw in trem bar; if you have the tension spring in and use the bar a lot the screw in design isn’t that bad. Leave the bar in and point it toward the input Jack when putting the guitar in a case.
Even sound? The PRS pickups are the only really decisive factor to me... The sound much more articulate and expensive..... Reminds me of higher end Fenders. The players series pickups are good but not fantastic, IMO.
Both are great guitars, but for me it's the Strat! I just don't understand the grey plastic on the tuners and trust rod cover on such a beautiful guitar. You do have to spend a bunch more cash to get a rosewood neck on a Strat now. Tough choice...
Both really nice. I have a 2018 player modded with Fender lockers, tort guard , bone nut, brass trem block and brass roller saddles. Wish it was a little lighter but used to it. I am an old Strat guy so there is so much there to overcome. Probably all in my head but Strat's forever. But then my music is all in my head too so just seeing the word Fender conjures all sorts of fingerboard wanderlust. If could afford more guitars, I would/will probably still get a Silver Sky too. edit, and a really long trem arm and cream plastics.
This is the comparison I needed! I sorely want a Strat, and Fender is my dream Strat, but when the Silver Sky SE came out, and it's been so hyped, I was thinking maybe I would go that route. But, I want a maple fretboard on it. I don't like any other material on a Strat fretboard. Tye Fender sounded way more lively and bright to me as well . Just the way I like it! The PRS was lifeless and dull. Thank you so much for this video Darrell! I made up my mind. I'm definitely getting the Fender!
It's hard to mark one up to being better than a Strat. I'm a Fender fan going back to when I got my first Strat at 14 yrs old. That said, the tone on that PRS is pretty slick.
Same here, PRS make beautiful guitars, but I just can’t stop remembering my 1977 black Stratocaster . Too bad I sold it for 325.00 dollars, that was the going price. Probably worth about 3000.00 today.
I'm a Strat fan all my life. The SS looks like a fine guitar, but if I want a Strat it's likely to be a fender. If I wanted to step outside of Fender I would probably go for a Sire S7 long before a Silver Sky, in this price range. If I wanted a PRS there are a lot of original design PRS guitars I would look at long before a Strat knock off.
I like the look of the regular PRS guitars a lot more than copying the strat so much, but this PRS sounds great, also sounded like it stayed in tune better. I like the warmer tone of the PRS, but if you want the classic strat tone, the fender is the right choice I think.
Not sure who greenlit those tuning knobs and truss cover on the PRS, but they need to be fired. How about no truss cover? It would be cheaper AND look better.
I was thinking about all the controversy that happened when Mayer and PRS came out with the silver sky. I don’t understand why there isn’t the same level of…’concern’ about Suhrs, K-Lines, Tom Andersons etc S-type guitars. People generally love those guitars and pay Lots of money for them. There seem to be many Strat-type guitar models out there in different quality levels and price ranges by other companies. But PRS gets all the hate? I don’t get it
@@GuiitarBilly yeah for real. Almost every company besides Gibson sells an s-type and/or t-type guitar at this point. I don’t know why people criticize PRS so much for joining in.
John Mayer was a big user of the Fender Stratocaster until recently. On his current tour he is using the PRS Silver Sky almost exclusively. Both guitars sound good.
I just bought the Silver Sky in Stone Blue. I really wanted a Strat, even played it against the Pro II, Performer, JV 60 & Player Plus, but just found the tone and playability of the PRS more to my liking & almost half the price of the American Performer (2nd choice). But it’s a personal thing. Agree with Darrell on the tuning knobs and truss cover.
Hey there, I'm planning on buying a Strat type guitar and I narrowed it more or less down to Fender Player/Player Plus and the PRS. I'd like to ask you, what's your experience with the Player Plus? Some people really dislike the noisless pickups (but from what I've seen I actually like the more warmer or fuller sound). I haven't had the chance to try any of the guitars thou, so I'll be grateful for any insights.
@@jenda445 I played 4 different Player Plus guitars in store but I really didn’t like the noiseless pickups. That said, it’s a really nice foundation to work from: rolled fretboard edges, quality pots and switch, and locking tuners. Swap in a nice set of pickups and IMO, you have a great guitar but you’re at the Am Performer price point. I do own a Player Series Tele. Installed locking tuners and a set of Pure Vintage '64 pickups and IMO, it rivals anything in the affordable range that Fender sells.
I did NOT expect them to sound so different! The PRS did not sound very “Stratty” all. It almost sounded more “hi-fi”. It reminds me of comparing a Carvin Bolt to a Strat; despite the fact that you can make it visually look like a Strat, it still sounds high fi. The PRS by no means sounds bad, just quite different.
Biggest tonal difference seems to be the middle pickup. The SSSE middle is definitely warmer in the middle. The neck and bridge pups are pretty close. I am still waiting for my local GC to get some SS's in stock. I've played a core model, and it was an awesome guitar, but it was essentially a Strat. I'd rather have a Fender.
My personal opinion is that both are much of the same in sound, little variation there where the important thing goes on... it goes down to the aesthetics you prefer. Great video, thanks.
You will always find a great review here! One big note: this PRS is a signature guitar which makes it different than the Fender. Its not meant to have tons of options other than color. It's a great take on a Strat like guitar though and this price point I heard it's comparing heavily to the price point of the PRS USA model of the Sky, making the SE more of a choice. I am shopping for one thinking that is a great guitar to owe. Last the one thing I noticed is the tuning of the Sky when playing all over the neck intonates better meaning chords sounded more in tune than the strat. Not by much but that's very import to me. Thanks Darrell you really helped my decision!
I prefer the strats sound. Be sure to put that small spring in the trems screw in cavity to keep it from spinning. Sure the PRS has nice contours but Clapton Beck Blackmore had no problem with the square heel
I have an Silver Sky SE and I have a Fender strat with DiMarzio pickups. I have to say the SE in terms of build is SMOOTH. It plays and feels supreme. The pickups are great but, compared to a set of premium single coils they are just different. My strat sounds better on some things and the SE sounds better for others
I have that identical player series. I upgraded the pickups and trem. Love it. Mines not a maple neck but same color. Fender is a real strat. Everything else is just a copy.
Another point to consider:I own two PRS SE, one with a FR and a single cut Mark Tremonti. And what I can say is: very hard to sell , pricing for a used one is dropping dramatically. Selling a Fender Strat: no problem! Just a comment, has nothing to do with the quality of the SE, it‘s great!
The se hands down. The best SS guitar made today at any price point. I have 2 high end fenders that are going to collect dust 😂. I’m not a bandwagon guy, this guitar is absolutely bananas. It is that good and is way way above its price point. $849 for a guitar that needs nothing stays in tune and will last a lifetime…
IMO, the Player Series and Ameeican Pro II/American Standard models are essentially the modern interpretation of Fender's traditional designs. They're basically traditional with a few modern tweaks that are likely to appeal to modern players. This is why the squared off neck attachment and screw-in tremolo arms remain whither these "higher-end" features can be found on Deluxe/Ultra models. Funny thing is that you can find these or similar features on lower priced competitors........or even certain Squuer models. Either way, as long as it's properly executed, these old school features aren't a make or break issue for *most* people.
That close up on the frets instantly made me think the silver sky would be my choice. It's super imoprtant to me that the fret ens are nice and rounded. The frets also looked more polished and to me, the quality of the fret work is the most important on a guitar
![Twenty One Pilots - The Line (from Arcane Season 2) [Official Audio]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/XCz7WUotXs8/mqdefault.jpg)
![Lethal Company Music Video 🎵 "Follow The Orders" [VERSION A]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/QeooZB4Z7RA/mqdefault.jpg)
Did you guys prefer the bright punch of the Strat, or the fuller more rounded tone of the Silver Sky?
Guitar links:
Fender Player Strat- imp.i114863.net/vnvnPv
SE Silver Sky - imp.i114863.net/BXYXK4
Enjoy :)
I preferred the strat. You can always dial the tone back a bit to match the tone of the silver sky.
Nick Johnston traditional sss beats both of em
I definitely preferred the Fender. I was expecting them to sound more similar than they did! I would not give up the clarity of the Fender for the warmth of the PRS because, as Silver Paladin wrote, you can always go a little darker by rolling off the tone.
@@davidlawrence701 that Nick Johnson strat is really nice. I have an American Professional HSS strat that I love, but that’s a different price range than these. I agree though, the Schecter is great.
Hi Darrell, hope you will be able to do a review for Ciari Guitars too.
Personally I like the warmer tones of the PRS, but it's not a replacement for the strat. It's a great addition to the strat, because there's a tone for certain songs you just need a strat for. And there's nothing wrong with adding another guitar!
An EQ pedal can fix that and do much more.
The objective of the Silver Sky was never to mimic the sound of a brand new, modern Fender Strat; John Mayer even said himself that the point was to produce a new guitar which would mimic the slightly demagnetized sound of an aged Strat built in the 60s, and they used a Strat like that for reference. The difference in sound is not meant to be the difference between a Strat and a non-Strat, so much as it is that between a new Strat and a vintage Strat.
Some people prefer the sound of a new Strat, and that's fine! But honestly I suspect that nobody would be able to tell the difference in a mix.
@@JayDoge true
I think It's the best strat I've ever played, by huge margin. I had a really nice burgandy mist CV Strat with a matching headstock, and I added a gold anodized aluminum pickguard and backplate; it was dope, but after buying a stone blue Silver Sky I knew I'd never play another SSS Strat again; it was the EXACT Strat tone and feel I had been after for literally decades. So I sold the other to my brother. The Silver Sky just beats every other Strat so hard in my opinion. (Or it does for my playing style at least.)
I didn't want my cool purple Strat to never get played, so I'm glad it's in good hands. I knew my brother would play it all the time, so I gave him a really good deal. He's lovin' it. Those Squier Classic Vibe Strats are really nice. For Squiers they're gettin' pricey though.
Man, this is the most rambley comment ever. I need to stop typing like WAY earlier. Or just not comment next time I'm this obnoxiously high.
TL;DR I think the Silver Sky (Specifically the SE, not the core model) is just the bee's knees.
@@calvinlee8103 I had a MIM strat with ceramic pickups once. Had a beautiful warm tone, but unfortunately had to sell it to pay my rent. Never found another that sounded like that, but the Silver Sky is pretty damn close!
Have to be honest ... can't get over that strat sound!!! Its golden.. that chime ...gets me everytime. The se silver sky sounds very nice as well... I wouldn't be opposed to owning one .
I own the PRS SE Silver Sky ( Evergreen version ) and it is absolutely fantastic. The warmth and clarity really shines when chasing those ever important triad inversions. I will never doubt Fender ever because they’re guitar gods but the Silver Sky is CLEAN and you just want to stop in the middle of a great line and hug it.
sold - thanks lol
I'm debating the evergreen vs. piano black....AHHHHHH, convince me either way please lol
I was a stubborn Fender Strat man. After watching numerous video reviews, especially this one by Darrell, I ventured into the PRS world after also playing another guitarist Silver Sky. Now while I haven't completely converted to PRS, I am no longer a Fender snob.
Best guitar I’ve ever felt
now I want a SS
Hi Darrell,
I have watched a number of the videos you have posted, and enjoyed them all. Your knowledge, enthusiasm and sincerity are a huge part of what makes these videos what they are.
It's refreshing to have a perspective that remains positive, even while critical. Nothing flashy, nothing over the top, just straight ahead, honest reviews, comparisons and assessments.
Keep up the great work!
I bought a MIM Strat months before even knowing PRS was releasing the SE Silver Sky. Kind of wish I had that time back. The PRS body and features are better indeed. Sound wise, they're close enough for my tinnitus-riddled ears.
I agree on all counts!!
I thought the same thing and they even increased the fingerboard radius on these. The SE's have an 8.5 radius which will feel a lot more normal to most players. Compared to the vintage style 7.25 radius on the American Silver Sky's
If you're still filled with regret you can save $300 and get a Sire Larry Carlton S7. Amazing guitar for the price.
@@iAutodidact I don't regret getting the Strat, per se. Used it for some amazing recording and sounds great. But if the Silver Sky was out then, and I had a chance to compare the 2, well, that's water under the bridge :-)
@@iAutodidact amazing at double the price!
Surprised that I preferred every tone on the Strat.
Thought 5 was better, then 4, then expected it to shift as we fot near the next but it didn’t.
Hi there
I bought a SS SE a couple of months ago and can’t get over how good it is.
Both exceptional instruments 🎸 If pressed to choose one it would be the Silver Sky but I would love either one!
They are both fantastic guitars! I find my PRS guitars easier to play than Fender but that's just me. I love different things about each. I have not played a silver sky yet but I do have a Strat, a PRS SE245 and a PRS Starla I play them each for their differences.
I'd really love to own a Silver Sky but a Revstar is next.
I think the deal breaker for me is the silver sky routing configuration. I love the idea of dropping a different pickguard on a Stratocaster and going from single coil to humbuckers if I so choose to. Also aftermarket parts. The Stratocaster is king because it’s the Chevy small block 350 of guitars.
You got that exactly right! There are so many aftermarket parts for the Strat,and I have fallen down that rabbit hole! EMG DG20,Fishman fluence,locking tuners,and so on.... But seriously, for $850? (I paid $750 less than a year ago) So the price is rising, like everything else,and when they get to$1000 I just might sell! And that other guitar? PRS on the headstock is all you need to know.
@@mikedrake9572 I have had probably 7 or 8 Stratocasters over the last 2 decades. Ranging from vintage specs to modern. I had a Clapton artist model that I loved the sound of but didn’t like the V shaped neck. I had a 50’s classic series which I guess would be a Vintera series today, loved the neck on it but didn’t care for the 7.25” radius. My main Stratocaster since 2001 was an American Series that I have experimented on. Fat 50’s is what I’ve landed on after about 7 different pickups including full humbuckers. I doubt I buy a PRS Silver Sky as I’m perfectly satisfied with the American Series. But that doesn’t mean it’s not a great guitar (silver sky) I just tend not to stray away from my all time favorite guitar.
"the Chevy small block of guitars"
As a car guy, I love this analogy.
@@DinsdalePiranha67 I can't think of 2 things that has more after market parts for it! Both kick ass, and both can be hot rodded up for relatively low amounts of money! Who doesn't love a small block Chevy? Conversely who doesn't love a Stratocaster? Les Pauls and Telecasters are cool but the aftermarket parts list is a fraction to what you can find for a Strat! Ford 302 5.0 for 80's and 90's Mustangs might come close to having as many parts as Chevy 350 but man are those parts not cheaper on the Chevy! Take care my fellow guitar grease monkey!
Gotta be the Strat. I thought the tone of the Fender was superior. I know i can dial down the brightness of the Fender but can I dial up the rounded tone of the PRS? I give credit for the contouring of the PRS and the light weight however I think the wood in the Fender is superior. Finally I think the curb appeal of the Fender blows the PRS out of the water.
Hi there
Exactly, as much as I like my PRS's, my E-series Japanese Strat with SD57's is insanely good, better than custom shop 57's.
Actually back then, Leo Fender chose alder and ash is because it's cheap and the wood is hard so it's good for screws. You can Google to check out this info.
I replaced the saddles with the blocks on my two point and it is perfection. Otherwise I prefer the classic trem. And once you crack the code a classic them can be set up to without being blocked or clamped down and keep tune even with going whammy crazy.
I love all of my PRS guitars--but I also love all of my Fenders. But my visual taste buds really love the Fender colors. Good demo. Rock on and Stay Well Groovy One!
I actually prefer the screw in trem arm. I recently bought a US Pro Strat II which has a pop in arm and I'm fighting with it so so much. Sure the pop in mechanism itself works well, but it's always starting to loosen over time and then you have to re-adjust or re-tighten the set-screw knowing that in a couple of weeks, it'll start wiggle again. With the screw-in arm, imho, it is old-school, yes, but it's more stable.
Gotta have that spring in there.
+1 for the spring
Exact same experience. I like it when the bar jumps into your hand ✋
Have you ever tried the prs push in arm?
Screw in wins for me
I thought they sounded very similar, but I thought the PRS sounded slightly smoother. For me, I thought the PRS had a more noticeable twang in the 2nd position. For the price point,I give the PRS a narrow win.
Telecaster even more twangy
Thanks Darrell, to my ears the PRS sounded a little more mellow.
Having wound up with both examples this past year I can’t get past how much better the PRS in terms of thoughtful design… the volume knob for example is a stiffer feel than the two tone knobs… if you’re the type to accidentally smack the volume knob you will appreciate that.
The pickups are so much more balanced and the slightly warmer tone is a nice touch (to me).
The SE is a excellent instrument! I’m very pleased with mine 😁
I've never really gotten along with standard Strat pickups, as I find them too scooped and spikey. The SE SS sounded much fuller with the mids more forward and tone in all positions more rounder and smooth to my ears. SE SS would be the guitar for me for a S style guitar over the Fender players series.
I sort of agree with you, but what we like and what sounds good in a mix can be two different things in my opinion.
@@gjw45 True enough, but usually you need mids to blend and pop out more in a mix, and Strats are notorious for their slight mid scoop in their tones. Hence why people either swap out standard Fender Strat pickups for something like a DiMarzio FS-1 or why so many Strat players love Tubescreamer style overdrives especially if they are playing through Fender or Fender style amps.
They’re more similar in their tones than different. So if you don’t get along with strat pickups, the SS SE is gonna give you the same trouble. I do hear a slightly fuller mid in the prs but it’s still essentially in the same ballpark.
It sounds like you're more of a telecaster guy ;)
@@Itsallawesome well I do have 3 so yeah I am. I do have a Strat copy with single coil sized rail humbuckers in all positions with split coil switching for all of them, so that guitar can get me a traditional Strat sound when I occasionally want or need it.
I have that exact Strat... and it is just beautiful. For me it was closer to my perfect strat than anything more expensive in their catalogue... (Nice shiny maple board and original headstock with all the logos...) and that maple top 😍😍😍😍 My only real gripes? The fretwork is a tiny bit sharp, not a deal breaker, but you can definitely feel them. So a little fretwork with a file. And the bent steal saddles are not my style... Block saddles are on their way. The other thing i did was switch in Lace Sensors, (Red, Silver, Blue,) They're way punchier... but still have clear tones. So for less than $1500 Australian, it's just the perfect strat... in my eyes anyway 😍😍 The only other change i would have made, were it an option: Sting through body hardtail.
Don’t see to many hard tail strats. Block the trem if you want that. Don’t ask me how. Never done it.
Hi there
I LOVE a hardtail
Was looking for a strat to compliment a Gibson LP classic. Played 3 player strats and one silver sky, went home with the silver sky because the different tones, feel of the neck and it was already set up. Intonation was pretty much perfect not to mention a month later the thing just stays in tune. great guitar for the price!
For me it usually comes down to what comes better from the factory. In this PRS wins hands down. I've never owned a Fender that I didn't have to take to my tech for a setup and/or a fret level/dress. The same can be said for many brands and I'll usually send new guitars in to my tech anyway. However, I've never had to send a PRS or Hamer to get set up. They've always come pretty much perfect only requiring a quick truss rod adjustment as the seasons change. The truth is I'd be happy with either of these guitars but most likely I'd have to shell out some cash to get the Fender playing like I think it should.
Same. Even my American Deluxe strat got sent in to my local guitar shop. To be honest though it didn't make a huge difference, though the tech did a great job on it. I have a core model PRS, a Custom 22 with a solid rosewood neck. I wanted my Fender to play as good as the PRS, but even after the tech going over the fretboard it still doesn't play as well as my PRS. My strat is still my favorite guitar though, and it gets played more than my PRS. 🤷🏻♂️
IF you want to hear my guitars you can search my name on RUclips. I have a few videos.
Hi there
I have that exact SS SE and I'm in love with it, and that's a lot coming from a mainly Gibson dude. It's been hard to put it down since I got it last month. Great video!
Years back I made this same choice, Fender Player or PRS SE EG.
I chose the PRS and now having played friends Fenders I'm completely satisfied that I made the right choice, I have an HSS EG in tobacco burst and I'd take it over any Strat I've ever played. Unlike the Silver Sky, mine has all metal tuners , I'm convinced that PRS does a better job of setting up the guitar before it's shipped to a dealer, with Fender it feels a bit hit or miss, some are good but others can feel just awful, especially the fret work.
Man, I just really love the bright tones of a strat. Each note feels more precise and defined to my ears
I have a Player Series Strat and I love it! For me, I don’t really see the point in buying a very similar Strat knock-off design for the same price as the official thing.
The PRS headstock looks very weird to me. The fact that the Player has a Fender logo on it will mean a lot to people which will effect resale value.
PRS also have a good resale value, cmon it's PRS not some obscure brands.
@@dadanardi5541 What sells easier, an actual Fender Strat or a PRS Strat copy? The fact that it’s a copy tells you everything you need to know.
I feel like some things do not add up like Darrell describes them. For instance, versatility is a thing he mentions a couple times, but let's not forget that the Silver Sky was intended as a signature model, which for example may have affected how many colors PRS decided to put out there. 🧐 Great video regardless! ❤️
Would love to see you do a 3 way with a comparable G&L tribute... just saying that seeing some of Leo's last work might be very interesting as opposed to a more legacy stuff. Oh and the price point would be very similar as well.
G & L guitars are better than all of the Fenders and all the pretenders.
This helped me make my mind. For the features , playability and tone I prefer the Silver Sky. Great video 🎸
Have to go with the Fender for that 'chime.' A small adjustment and you can get the darker tone of the PRS, but you can't get the PRS up to the Strat chime.
The Indonesians are great craftsmen. I have an LTD I bought for grins, and the quality was just astounding.
But, the Corona-Ensenada partnership keeps the Fender 'thang' going . . . all American . . .
For my ear, only the Strat has that trademark jangle and spank its famous for.
The Sky appears better made, has more sustain and richer, smoother tone but sounds less "Strat like".
Bottom line, if youre playing blues, country, classic 50's thru 70's vintage rock and want an axe that retains value, get the Strat. Want a more modern tone? Get a Sky.
Yeah the maple board I think gives the strat the sparkle where the PRS is bit more subdued.
You realize the silver sky pickups are literally replicas of vintage strat pickups. Idk how fender could be any more authentic. JM pickups are built from johns old strats. Most modern fenders pickups just don’t sound good. They’ve very thin
@@llwonder One can also say the newer Dodge Challengers are faster, more advanced, safer in crash tests, yada, yada, yada, but thete's something sorely lacking in both versus the originals.
This is WHY the originals of each fetch HUGE money, while their newer versions do not.
@@llwonder this comment here, ppl don’t realize that vintage guitars have thicker tones. The newer pick ups don’t replicate it unless you get pots and pick ups. So I’d take the PRs it’s almost like the TMG
@@nazinas21 vintage guitars don’t have thicker tones. In fact many of them are very low output because they didn’t have the capability of manufacturing like today. “Hot” pickups aren’t better, and vintage aren’t hot generally. Vintage guitars are incredibly unpredictable with what you’re getting. Some vintage pickups sound awful while some sound good. In the 60s they handwound everything and there was little consistency. Today’s manufacturing is way more reliable and pickups will sound more similar than vintage pickups will.
PRS knocked it out of the park with the silver sky pickups and they sound better than any other strat pickup. It’s exactly what I want out of a strat
I personally like the Silver Sky for weight and all the nice neck features, since I am tiny any weight loss is good for me.
The Silver Sky pickups just sound more refined, it's got the Strat tone but with the rough edges smoothed out ever so slightly.
There’s a reason there’s been so little change from the first strat to today’s strat. Leo got it real close to perfect from the start.
They need to bring back rosewood on the MIMs.
No hate on PRS.
Ima ascared of burds.
I’m very lucky to have the rosewood on my MIM and I’m never selling it! It’s too good! I do love my new Silver Sky SE. I have the dragon fruit color!
I think the PRS SS bring variety to the mix, rather than copying the Fender Strat per se. I would rather have this rather than a basic clone of the Fender Strat. To each its own, this is a positive for both. Nevertheless, why limit yourself to one, get both and have the variety and creative flexibilities!
I've always been a PRS guy, myself. I recently got a Fender (first legit Fender strat for me) and as a couple of people said here it came pretty dreadful from the factory. In fact I had to return the first one and get a replacement because the solder job inside the first one was awful and I was having issues with not getting any sound in certain positions because of it. But even the second one I got has some pretty major issues with the fret work. Bend a little too far and the first string will get stuck under the 4th fret haha. I've never had an issue with a PRS. From their lowest level SE all the way to the ridiculously expensive core models they all come 100% ready out of the box. Meticulous attention to detail. BUT... I can see how some would prefer the twang of a classic strat. Sounds phenomenal. Silver Sky is no slouch either. It's a little fatter and warmer... more round. For me... Love the classic vibe of my Fender... It's iconic and just feels special in hand... but I wish I had a Silver Sky.
Lol
Ah see the fraudulent Darrel is asking you tae PM him too
I’ve heard all kindsa bad stuff about the entire fender strat range n was saving my money for a silver sky se.
I ended up with a revelation RTS 62 and it’s about perfect 👌🏼for a quarter of the money
I would urge anyone who’s into s type guitars to have a blast on one ay the revelation ones they’re just a bloody good guitar n genuinely kick fenders square In the tuning keys 🤣
Many great strat/tele players are playing with non-Fender guitars now. Suhr is very popular for the fender sub. Suhr really are in detail for tone and playability.
I had to send back two different player strats until I finally got one that didn't have any major defects and it was the third one they replaced
@Mark Seymour well of the 7 PRS electrics and 3 acoustics I've owned over the last 20 years they were all on point. Aside from having to adjust intonation on one of them, I've never needed a setup from the jump on any of them. Certainly never had sloppy electronic work or jacked up frets on any. So generally speaking I'd say the factory pays incredible attention to detail as opposed to most.
@Mark Seymour yeah I'm in the US, and that's right... they essentially set them up in Maryland before shipping. Both the SE models and the core models go through the exact same process, so even the cheap ones are getting the same thorough once over that the $5k ones get.
The strat has the better tone, IMO. At least on the settings you used. It was a huge difference for me there.
totally agree. strat sounded better in all positions
Hi there
Every position sounded slightly different, but the Fender sounded better on the neck pickup. For me, that's my favourite position and I would choose the Fender. I have and AM Strat from 2004 with SCN pickups, and the PRS sounded more like that in the neck position. Nothing wrong with it, and I like the SCN pickups now that I have them dialled in to suit me, but I'm baffled by the PRS guitar. Why bring out a version of a strat, with almost the same features at the same price point?
Nah, youre just clinged to old outdated things. Silver sky can achieve more stratty tones plus it can be warmer and do jazz
@@swaggettiyolonese2373 lol. That's the butthurtest comment in this vid. I just said I preferred the strat tones in this very particular video with the settings this particular user had at the moment, not that the strat is completely superior product.
great comparison, Darrell.
loved the mellow sound of the PRS. Very soothing.
⬆️🆙thanks for commenting❣
Message the above👆let talk
You definitely have more choices with the Fender, and frankly I love that. On the other hand the PRS is super sweet and overall I really appreciate what it has to offer. That said, i wish PRS had not gone the "cheap looking" route for certain aspects of the Silver Sky. The gray plastic tuner buttons and truss rod cover REALLY detract from the looks. And yes, looks matter. If they had went a bit "nicer" it would have really improved the looks and therefore increased interest (IMO).
So for me, I wish they had a Silver Sky with the choices the Fender has, and the LOOKS that it has as well. You can go "modern" without looking cheap, but I don't think PRS and "your body is a wonderland" got that memo. It is one of the things that really made me tilt my head when reviewing PRS's complete lineup. The Silver Sky simply looks.... cheap. It's a GREAT guitar though, so that is frustrating.
Now for sound... simply put, it's not an issue. Both sound great, and both can be MADE to sound damn near the same. We all know that all strats don't sound "the same" anyways, and your sound is determined by many factors. What amps are you using? What settings are you using? What effects are you using? And on and on.
That all said, I would take either, and recement either. I don't think you lose either way. Cheers!
lol in no way does the prs look cheap. It looks beautiful.
@@cMaslow agree with you, and when Darrell talks about the Strat, he also mentions the possibilities for making changes to pickups, color etc. They do not have locking tuners which I prefer. So the plastic knobs on the PRS / color don't bother me as I would change out to locking tuners as I have on 3 other PRS guitars that I now own. Weight is also the big plus as I've gotten older, the Les Paul now sits at home to be played. The Pao Ferro just does not attract me in the least. I'm a rosewood person. Fender's QC also has been lacking in more recent times on fret edges etc. The screw in vibrato bar is very old school; great if you want the vintage look. Square block at the neck joint also a no go for me. I still enjoy Fenders, but in the comparison, PRS is my choice.
I was hoping that silver sky so would sound better be but man That bright sound and vibe of that strat sounds soo good.
Since the Silver Sky se was announced, it has been “on the way” at Sweetwater and on order at Guitar Center. I just bought a player strat and couldn’t be happier. The lack of availability made the choice easy.
Same with me but for Yamaha
@@tomaslopez2940 The Pacifica 612 was my first choice but they have been really rare for months.
That tone comparison put me squarely in the PRS camp. Great demo, Darrell!
Kind of wish PRS would add a nice veneer and do a transparent finish on the Silver Sky like on that “Plus Top” Strat. (I have a Plus top tele in blueburst, it’s sweet).
I honestly thought the Strat sounded just a bit better but it was so close that you should just buy whichever you liked better and be happy you got a killer instrument.
I'm going to be honest with you, tonally, I prefer both for different positions. I think the thing that really pushes it over the top for me is its intonation. It's pretty clear that the Silver Sky keeps the tuning pretty spot on all over the neck while the strat had some clear intonation issues (assuming that the guitar was in tune to begin with).
that is an idiotic comment. if there is intonation issue, that's just the setup. what you hear as an intonation issue is a tuning issue.
It sounded to me like the Strat simply wasn't tuned properly before the demo.
@@louiscyfer6944 easy on the roid rage. The guy is just confused. The silver sky does stay in tune far better though which is a big advantage. Ultimately it depends what sort of sound people want because they both have their pluses, overall if I could only afford to buy one or the other though I would definitely go with the prs. Can't beat the quality, sound, tone, and the fact that it stays in tune better. That's just a bonus. If I had to guess I would say more people are let down with a fender instrument than they are with PRS. I know I am. I wish I would have not bought my strat and gone for a PRS instead and saved a bit more.
@@TorrentFiend10 i was not aware that allergy medicine causes rage. my strats stay in tune perfectly.
@@louiscyfer6944 I know that's not true because I also have fender. It does not stay in tune perfectly. Specifically the g-string. Any guitarist would know this though so you just outed yourself. The reason I mentioned roid rage is because of your profile pic. It's kind of obvious bro.
I owned a vintage 1960 Strat for 20 years. I had to sell in hard times, but when I eventually went looking for a replacement in 1994, I found a new USA G&L Legacy. I have never regretted that purchase. G&Ls are the best!
I have a lot of guitars all kinds of brands. I love this SE Silver Sky so much I sold my USA model. I see no need to keep it. I like the radius better on the SE and the pickups are slightly hotter than my USA which I like. The Trem is just a better design also. I love Fender, but PRS is killing it with these. I think the smartest business move is PRS - Maryland inspects and sets up every one of these SE guitars. This is the game changer. When the player gets it, it is right. Fender just sends them out I suppose. Kudos to PRS for that, and I hope they never change that operation. It sets them apart in quality. Also I appreciate Darrel Braun, super informative, and a great channel.
I’m with you, had a player series, have an American pro 2. Player series doesn’t come close in any category but paint to this silver sky which I’ve had for a month.
I like the PRS a little better. The Strat sounded better in all positions to my ears except position 3 where I thought the PRS excelled. The Strat, arguably has better hardware and I like a maple fretboard better on a Strat-type guitar rather than rosewood. Still, there is something sexy about the PRS in its simplicity that I like. :)
You got the pickup test right as well :D. Though the only thing I like with the PRS is the Contour for higher fret access. I hope Fender would do that on all player series in the future.
A little over a month ago I bought the Schecter Nick Johnson instead of the PRS SE Silver Sky. I tried both in the store and preferred the Schecter for comfort in the neck and body. But after a few days I realized that the sound of the Strat and other Fender models is not equaled by any brand. Everyone wants to copy them but just like a Gibson Les Paul they are unique.The I love Schecter NJ because it has its own sound and in construction it is impeccable, without any factory flaws. Better than any Fender.
I preferred the PRS in single coil positions, and the Fender by a mile in the in between positions. Great time to be a guitarist, as there are multiples of great options in every price point.
Thanks for this comparison Darrell... I bought a fender player just a few weeks ago and I'm ❤️ing it. I agree completely with you. The fender neck isn't as finished as my other PRS SE (245)... But man... it just plays and sound like a fender... I think the silversky sounds a bit muddy for a strat (though they are very close, and the ss sounds great as well)
The PRS plastic tunners are a definite turn-off for me (looks sooo cheep), even on the full blown silver sky.
I own a 2003 MIM standard strat (modded with a Tex-Mex loaded pickguard)and though I have never played one , to me the PRS just sounds better. more balanced through the lows, mids and highs.
I reported your impersonating Darrell Braun.
@@jeffbosch1697 you do realize that that’s a bot and is not going to see your message, right?
@@gabewilliams7462 doesn't matter, everyone needs to report these scammers
@@gabewilliams7462 Darrell made video few days ago about reporting not comments but channels of scammers
@@gabewilliams7462 Yeah, I could have worded it better. It was mainly meant for other users who aren't yet aware of this scam.
Just went to my guitar store with the intention of walking out with a Silversky SE under my arm. However, I decided to try out the fender player just in case. I ended up buying the strat. Personally, I found that the SE felt much lighter and "cheaper", with loose knobs and tuning pegs. I preferred the tone on the strat as well as the playability. The SE has a thicker neck, which I personally dislike, as it will make it unnecessarily hard to play songs such as neon (which is ironic, considering it's sponsored by Mayer). Sorry PRS fans, but the strat's the goat. Always has, always will be
Exactly what I discovered at the guitar store a few days ago. It may come down to personal preference but all Silver Sky‘s I tried felt cheap compared to Fender Strats in the same price range.
Definitely I like the PRS best , loved the sound. Fender pickups sound like cheap , tinny.
SE is a much better choice at that price, if we are talking about USA made expensive strat, I would go for a fender custom shop
Not sure about the SE models, but I bought the USA Silver Sky and returned it within hours. Nothing wrong with it, just wasn't for me. Unlike so many signature guitars, the Silver Sky is a very specific guitar made for a very specific person, and I am not that person :)
I think a LOT more went into the production of the PRS. It's designed with players in mind.
Sound wise…I prefer the Silver Sky. I also like that headstock “look” a little better and I like a darker non lacquered fretboard. The rolled fretboard edges and nicer fretwork is a big win for me as well. The PRS designed trem also gets my vote. I prefer to see the wood grain on my guitars so I would want a translucent finish. If I was trying to decide on one now….. I would not be choosing either of these today. I would wait for the new colors on the new PRS or maybe an SE Fiore if that’s introduced next and gets a rosewood fretboard. As things really stand in my guitar closet… I love my G&L Legacy…. Even with the maple fretboard. Never thought I would have liked it as much as I did when I picked it up. The best Strat that I have ever played!
Intonation on the PRS is far better than the Strat. Smoother transitions in sound with the PRS as well from PU to PU because they are three of the same pickups which is what I like in any T style guitar.
Definitely not a guitarist, but I always enjoy checking out this channel.
For this one? I preferred the PRS tones overall, but I found I liked the Fender tone for position 2. Otherwise, if I suddenly decided I needed one of these 2 guitars, I'd take the PRS hands down.
Keep up the great vids Darrell!
I agree about the overall sound, especially position 2.
@@leicesterblackthorne9699 it’s like the PRS lost a big chunk of lows and most of the mids in P2, which is strange because otherwise it sounds much fuller and balanced than the Fender (at least to my ears)
I like the PRS, sounds more alive and fuller .
I’ve owned both and the fit and finish especially on the frets and neck on the SE were just better and the instrument just felt and sounded like it was better quality and the setup on the SE was way better as well out of box so I knew the guitar had been inspected by PRS in the US which fender I don’t think does on imports.
Hi Darrel! Huge fan, just one observation on your comparison, the fender you can get it with different pickup configs, Hss being my fav. Love your channel!
Gotta go with Fender. It wins on all fronts for me. And that PRS headstock… ugghh. A note about the screw in trem bar; if you have the tension spring in and use the bar a lot the screw in design isn’t that bad. Leave the bar in and point it toward the input Jack when putting the guitar in a case.
Like the PRS head stock , but not on a SE style
Gotta have that spring. Stew Mac sells a spring with a ball bearing that works great. A pen spring will work too I’ve heard.
too bad when i put it in a gig bag i gotta unscrew the arm and the screw yeets off.
Bingo.
Even sound? The PRS pickups are the only really decisive factor to me... The sound much more articulate and expensive..... Reminds me of higher end Fenders. The players series pickups are good but not fantastic, IMO.
“Only one option on the neck” not anymore! Haha Darrell you should get your hands on one of the maple models, especially in that purple 😍
Both are great guitars, but for me it's the Strat! I just don't understand the grey plastic on the tuners and trust rod cover on such a beautiful guitar. You do have to spend a bunch more cash to get a rosewood neck on a Strat now. Tough choice...
Not if you buy Japanese Fenders. Japan Hybrid ii is a great line with stock rosewood boards
Thanks, Will check them out.
Both really nice. I have a 2018 player modded with Fender lockers, tort guard , bone nut, brass trem block and brass roller saddles. Wish it was a little lighter but used to it. I am an old Strat guy so there is so much there to overcome. Probably all in my head but Strat's forever. But then my music is all in my head too so just seeing the word Fender conjures all sorts of fingerboard wanderlust. If could afford more guitars, I would/will probably still get a Silver Sky too. edit, and a really long trem arm and cream plastics.
This is the comparison I needed! I sorely want a Strat, and Fender is my dream Strat, but when the Silver Sky SE came out, and it's been so hyped, I was thinking maybe I would go that route. But, I want a maple fretboard on it. I don't like any other material on a Strat fretboard. Tye Fender sounded way more lively and bright to me as well . Just the way I like it! The PRS was lifeless and dull. Thank you so much for this video Darrell! I made up my mind. I'm definitely getting the Fender!
The PRS in position 2 especially! The bass was so muddled. My Squier Affinity sounds better than that and, it cost $500.00 less!✌️🎸🎶
It's hard to mark one up to being better than a Strat. I'm a Fender fan going back to when I got my first Strat at 14 yrs old. That said, the tone on that PRS is pretty slick.
Same here, PRS make beautiful guitars, but I just can’t stop remembering my 1977 black Stratocaster . Too bad I sold it for 325.00 dollars, that was the going price. Probably worth about 3000.00 today.
I'm a Strat fan all my life. The SS looks like a fine guitar, but if I want a Strat it's likely to be a fender. If I wanted to step outside of Fender I would probably go for a Sire S7 long before a Silver Sky, in this price range. If I wanted a PRS there are a lot of original design PRS guitars I would look at long before a Strat knock off.
I like the look of the regular PRS guitars a lot more than copying the strat so much, but this PRS sounds great, also sounded like it stayed in tune better. I like the warmer tone of the PRS, but if you want the classic strat tone, the fender is the right choice I think.
Not sure who greenlit those tuning knobs and truss cover on the PRS, but they need to be fired. How about no truss cover? It would be cheaper AND look better.
People are taking the truss cover off. It looks way better
As always, great video and great comparison!
Thank you, Darrell!
The PRS sounds quite a lot better, is better quality and looks better.
When is Darrel doing a review of the Ibanez AZES?? I've been waiting for months now, I'm so sure he'll love it
Fender, no question.
Wow the SS is so much warmer in tone. How facinating.
Still can't believe they stuck a PRS neck on a Strat and sold it as their own thing.
I was thinking about all the controversy that happened when Mayer and PRS came out with the silver sky. I don’t understand why there isn’t the same level of…’concern’ about Suhrs, K-Lines, Tom Andersons etc S-type guitars. People generally love those guitars and pay Lots of money for them. There seem to be many Strat-type guitar models out there in different quality levels and price ranges by other companies. But PRS gets all the hate? I don’t get it
@@GuiitarBilly yeah for real. Almost every company besides Gibson sells an s-type and/or t-type guitar at this point. I don’t know why people criticize PRS so much for joining in.
Yeah I know its not like it is better quality or has better features designed foe actual players.....
@@GuiitarBilly Ig Prs and John Mayer are subjectively bigger names?
People like to hate on the higher up company/person
Have you tried one? You will see they are not quite the same
John Mayer was a big user of the Fender Stratocaster until recently. On his current tour he is using the PRS Silver Sky almost exclusively. Both guitars sound good.
I just bought the Silver Sky in Stone Blue. I really wanted a Strat, even played it against the Pro II, Performer, JV 60 & Player Plus, but just found the tone and playability of the PRS more to my liking & almost half the price of the American Performer (2nd choice). But it’s a personal thing. Agree with Darrell on the tuning knobs and truss cover.
Hey there, I'm planning on buying a Strat type guitar and I narrowed it more or less down to Fender Player/Player Plus and the PRS. I'd like to ask you, what's your experience with the Player Plus? Some people really dislike the noisless pickups (but from what I've seen I actually like the more warmer or fuller sound). I haven't had the chance to try any of the guitars thou, so I'll be grateful for any insights.
@@jenda445 I played 4 different Player Plus guitars in store but I really didn’t like the noiseless pickups. That said, it’s a really nice foundation to work from: rolled fretboard edges, quality pots and switch, and locking tuners. Swap in a nice set of pickups and IMO, you have a great guitar but you’re at the Am Performer price point. I do own a Player Series Tele. Installed locking tuners and a set of Pure Vintage '64 pickups and IMO, it rivals anything in the affordable range that Fender sells.
You should put your notes on both sides of the camera so when you reference them it looks natural. Great channel, great video.
I sold my mim strat, and bought the se silver sky a month ago. Very happy with the change and it feels like an upgrade
I did NOT expect them to sound so different! The PRS did not sound very “Stratty” all. It almost sounded more “hi-fi”.
It reminds me of comparing a Carvin Bolt to a Strat; despite the fact that you can make it visually look like a Strat, it still sounds high fi.
The PRS by no means sounds bad, just quite different.
Fender objectively sounds richer to me. PRS has a bit of a virtual instrument sound to it.
Biggest tonal difference seems to be the middle pickup. The SSSE middle is definitely warmer in the middle. The neck and bridge pups are pretty close. I am still waiting for my local GC to get some SS's in stock. I've played a core model, and it was an awesome guitar, but it was essentially a Strat. I'd rather have a Fender.
It's a very close call for me, actually better off to get both of them, really like, for myself ,the sound of the PRS
Excellent demo the PRS Se does sound slightly warmer and richer than the fender,
My personal opinion is that both are much of the same in sound, little variation there where the important thing goes on... it goes down to the aesthetics you prefer. Great video, thanks.
You will always find a great review here! One big note: this PRS is a signature guitar which makes it different than the Fender. Its not meant to have tons of options other than color. It's a great take on a Strat like guitar though and this price point I heard it's comparing heavily to the price point of the PRS USA model of the Sky, making the SE more of a choice. I am shopping for one thinking that is a great guitar to owe. Last the one thing I noticed is the tuning of the Sky when playing all over the neck intonates better meaning chords sounded more in tune than the strat. Not by much but that's very import to me. Thanks Darrell you really helped my decision!
I prefer the strats sound. Be sure to put that small spring in the trems screw in cavity to keep it from spinning. Sure the PRS has nice contours but Clapton Beck Blackmore had no problem with the square heel
They both sound great. The PRS has more bottom end and sounds beefier. Both great sounds though. .
I have an Silver Sky SE and I have a Fender strat with DiMarzio pickups. I have to say the SE in terms of build is SMOOTH. It plays and feels supreme. The pickups are great but, compared to a set of premium single coils they are just different. My strat sounds better on some things and the SE sounds better for others
"Hello, we are going to look at two single coil blues machines"
*Epic humbucker heavy distortion shredding channel theme song plays*
It’s no right or wrong with these guitars but PRS has been adding clever features and value to the strat family.
I have that identical player series. I upgraded the pickups and trem. Love it. Mines not a maple neck but same color. Fender is a real strat. Everything else is just a copy.
Another point to consider:I own two PRS SE, one with a FR and a single cut Mark Tremonti. And what I can say is: very hard to sell , pricing for a used one is dropping dramatically. Selling a Fender Strat: no problem! Just a comment, has nothing to do with the quality of the SE, it‘s great!
The se hands down. The best SS guitar made today at any price point. I have 2 high end fenders that are going to collect dust 😂. I’m not a bandwagon guy, this guitar is absolutely bananas. It is that good and is way way above its price point. $849 for a guitar that needs nothing stays in tune and will last a lifetime…
Darrell tiptoes around the fire 🔥 lol ! You ROCK thanks for another great video 👏👏
Great video, amazing guitars, but that barncaster in the back stole the show for me!
IMO, the Player Series and Ameeican Pro II/American Standard models are essentially the modern interpretation of Fender's traditional designs. They're basically traditional with a few modern tweaks that are likely to appeal to modern players. This is why the squared off neck attachment and screw-in tremolo arms remain whither these "higher-end" features can be found on Deluxe/Ultra models. Funny thing is that you can find these or similar features on lower priced competitors........or even certain Squuer models. Either way, as long as it's properly executed, these old school features aren't a make or break issue for *most* people.
That close up on the frets instantly made me think the silver sky would be my choice. It's super imoprtant to me that the fret ens are nice and rounded. The frets also looked more polished and to me, the quality of the fret work is the most important on a guitar
Poplar is a very stable wood. It’s less affected by changes in humidity or wet conditions.