Let me know which guitar had your favorite tone! Guitar links: Les Paul Tribute - imp.i114863.net/5bWy99 PRS SE Starla - imp.i114863.net/YgZ0ye Enjoy :)
I guess it depends what you're going to do what kind of music. And I'd like to see inside of them. Because I found a surprise when I got my Gibson 50s Studio gold top. And I wasn't really very happy PC board. I guess I assumed if it's made in the USA it wouldn't be cheap like that. I haven't gotten around to changing it or does it fit? I bet you will never find a PC board in a PRS guitar. How many guitars does one man need?? LOL?
Hey Darrell. Wanted to say I appreciate videos like this quite a lot. I'm a fairly new sales employee for a major music retailer, and there wasn't much training provided to me about gear and such, so I find myself having to self-educate about it constantly. I find learning from your videos to be helpful for my own knowledge, and when I'm tasked with helping customers find what suits them, I often think about things I've learned from you. I'd even go as far as to say what I've learned from you has put money in my pocket! Thanks for doing these and please keep it up! 🙂
I was working at another big box chain several years ago and we never got any training, either (other than how to sell in a vague way - and not guitars per se. just general salesmanship). but, luckily the internets were invented and I was already a nerd by the time I started working there.
Strongly prefer the Starla here. Mostly for ergonomics, but I also preferred the tones. It's brighter, but it's easier to tame a bright guitar than to brighten up a warm guitar.
The Les Paul Tribute has more of a classic tone and the PRS Starla SE sounds more modern. They both sound amazing in their own way. The PRS McCarty 594 SE would've been a closer comparison. Great video as usual.
The Starla is my favourite guitar in my arsenal but I look forward to trying the McCarty 594 SE when it arrives to Australia, from the videos I’ve watched, this new model sounds like those vintage LP thanks to the 58/15 S pickups.
I cant say one sounded better than the other as both sound great. The PRS gets my vote because of the price but needs to have more colour options in my opinion.
I think a fairer comparison would have been something from PRS's S2 line. They're priced about the same as the Tribute, American made, etc. That said, in this case, PRS's import line went against an American Gibson and held its own. Just another reminder that Gibson is mostly a name and look these days.
The Gibsons of today are actually some of the best guitars they've produced in many years. I bought a 2022 Les Paul Standard 60's brand new & it's flawless plus it sounds incredible.
This PRS is half the price of the Gibson and stood its ground to say the least, Edging out the Gibson coz of the weight and affordability! Both are entry level.
That is my issue i love both but Gibson has that tone that is just warm and magical! PRS really is good though also! I just have to say Gibson but both id love to have!
Although I have never played a Les Paul Tribute, or do I own a Les Paul, I have an SE Starla and love it a lot! Also a quick side note, I own an SE Tremonti as well, and it is pretty awesome as well!
I've had the Gibson LP Tribute and own the PRS SE 24/08. I kept the the PRS SE 24/08 and sold the LP. The PRS had been such a work horse and with the 24/08 controls to go from humbucker to single coil and from clean to dirty really works much better for what I play. From jazz to blues, to hard rock and to metal. Plus it weighs less and love the looks. Again for most people IMHO it comes down to preference.
Looking at a lot of guitars and not wanting to own a bunch of different guitars, I wanted a versatile guitar that could get both Fender and Gibson style sounds. What I want is in the PRS SE Custom 24-08. It looks good, sounds good, and plays so comfortably; I'm very glad that I own one too. 👍👍👍
I still remember going to my local guitar and lutherie (Flatland in Fargo, ND) and decided to try out a PRS guitar. I usually avoided them as I had been poor as a kid. I had been makin better money so thought since I coud afford a mid price guitar, I should at leasst give it a shot. The first one I ever picked up and played was a sky blue SE Starla and played it for about 10 seconds and was just BLOWN AWAY. I looked at the price tag and was just shocked, because it sounded like a REALLY NICE guitar. I asked one of the owners if the tag was mixed up or i had been reading it wrong, he laughed and said that it was right. Then went on about how they are one of the only guitar companies that isnt sheepish about where its import guitars are made and such. and i put a deposit on it instantly and its been tied with my gretsch electromatic jet bt for my favorite guitars I have ever owned.
I got a 2011 PRS SE-One for Christmas that year and it came set-up perfectly right out of the box. I’ve never played a new guitar set-up that well. My cousin stole-it from my storage after I moved here. I got a 2012 Les Paul Standard 60’s neck a year later … the action & intonation were off & it wouldn’t hold-tune. I sold it at a loss.
I own a Starla myself and love it, but that Les Paul sounded a lot warmer and just had a bit more low end response which I really liked. The Starla, though, is super versatile with the split coils, and as with most PRSs you get killer clarity. You hear every note come through with that Starla and I love that too. I don't think one is any better than the other... Very similar but when it comes down to it I think they're just 2 different tools for different kinds of players. But honestly if the LP tone was more of your thing you could always drop the same PUPs in the Starla and likely get there
I own and like guitars from both companies. Here, I thought the Gibson sounded better in every sound sample. Yes, the PRS has more high frequency energy ("cut"), but to my ear, it was slightly fizzy and harsh compared to the Gibson.
I love the Tribute. I have several LPs, from standards to custom shops, but the Tribute is nice and light, and the satin finish feels great. If you can find one used, it's an incredible value. However, over the Tribute, I prefer the PRS S2 Vela for a little bit more.
Would you mind expanding on this? I own a tribute (Which is one of my favorite guitars after a pickup swap) and I own a CE24 which is a great guitar as well but I've always said if I buy another PRS it would be a Vela in satin finish. What do you love about the Vela and what would you compare its tone to most guitar wise? I mean looks great, and comes off to me as the kind of guitar you ust don't swap the pickups on ever. They are unique. Thanks in advance!
@@SirNicholasHerron Have you seen the DGT SE that's are coming out? Robert Baker did a side by side with his DGT. Its called "PRS Finally Listened To Us!" That thing looks incredible.
@@steveeckert8396 I have seen it, and I think it’s a fantastic guitar for the money. The only thing stopping me is I’d love to own the core version of that for the full experience. I think despite how good the SE DGT sounds and looks I probably have some guitars that cover that for me already. Not that I couldn’t use another lol. The vela fits a niche for me and I already play a guitar with p90 neck and humbucker in the bridge that’s just so good to me. I love the pickup combo and the Vela kind of mimics that.
The tone of the guitars can be adjusted by amp settings and/or pedals. Playability is a personal experience. I'm quite sure the PRS headstock will be way more solid. 😁
The Tone of a guitar can absolutely NOT be adjusted by any amp, a Tele will never become a Les Paul, a Gretsch will never be a PRS and so on, guitars sound like what they are, adjusting amp setting is just changing amp settings not the guitars tone. If it were that easy i would have one guitar.
I've owned both a Les Paul Tribute and S2 Starla, and hands down, the S2 cleaned house. The LP's frets started to disappear like chalk, and a tuner gear shook loose within a month of having it. The strap buttons on the LP were also tiny, especially compared to the discs on the S2. The S2 Starla was also much more articulate with high end definition, and could handle high gain without sounding muddy. As a prominently single coil guy, I liked the S2 more.
I own a 2016 Gibson Goldtop 50's Tribute Les Paul ... I love it. I also own a PRS SE 245 Charcoal Burst... And a PRS SE Custom 24... I love both PRS SE guitars also. Upper Fret access is better on the PRS SE Guitars.
PRS definitely was brighter, gave it some nice cut with the overdrive tones, but I think the cleans were better on the Les Paul more rounded and less quacky. I think the tribute is the best bang for your buck in the Gibson line, but Burst Les Pauls look kinda weird without binding though imo.
Have a Starla SE and a couple of Gibson Studios. Starla is more playable and I prefer the tones I get from the Starla through a Fender Hotrod Deluxe IV. I’ve collected about a dozen mid to high end guitars over the years from Kissel, Fender, Gibson, Epiphone, PRS, Sire, and Angelica. I find myself playing the Starla most of the time.
I have a 1997 Heritage 535 and the new ones are retailing around $3K. A Yamaha Pacifica 612 ($650), a Schecter PT ($600) and a PRS S2 single cut in satin which retailed for $1050. I play the PRS S2 more than all the others. The sound and feel from the PRS is great. It was the least expensive S2 at the time and I wanted a Les Paul type guitar. It's very nice.
I have 3 Gibsons, and 3 american fenders. They were expensive. That said Ive got 2 epiphones, 2 squiers, and a PRS SE. dollars to donuts the best quality for the price is the SE. and its the only guitar I trust the trem to stay in tune on, even better than the usa strats
My dad I bought me a Gibson Melody Maker back in 1964. It plays and sounds as well today as it did then. Couple of years ago, I decided to purchase another electric solid body and decided on a Gibson Les Paul Tribute because I love the sound and playability. I feel that a Gibson is something I can hand off to my grandchildren and am confident it will serve them well.
I find all these videos useful because they are comparing value as well as performance. No one really expects the prs se to exceed the Gibson but how it measures up, how close or lacking to a Gibson is great info. These videos are about showcasing value (price vs quality/ performance)
I went to a guitar store a while ago for a Gibson Tribute (the white one, with white neck). I found the finishing to be terrible, to the point that I asked the sales representative if it was a B-stock item. But it wasn’t! I ended up buying a PRS SE Custom Semi-Hollow and I don’t regret it at all. Amazing guitar, great value, super comfortable and flawless finishing for less money than I would throw on a Gibson.
The pricepoints were different, which means the PRS really shines. Shouldn't the "Gibson" in that price point be an Epiphone? Then compare which is the better affordable guitar? Ok, to answer the question... I'd like to lean towards the PRS, but I liked the Les Paul's clean neck tone a lot better (I'm a 'warmth' kinda guy). OTOH, I liked the PRS's bridge crunch more. Both sounded great.
Yikes I’m surprised to hear the clarity and openness of the Starla, sounds good and wasn’t expecting that in comparison to the LP. Very interesting to read through the comments and sometimes see the exactly opposite experience of other guitar aficionados, wondering how what we listen to the video on affects our hearing. I’m using Bose earbuds, very full, clear and balanced.
Great job Darrell. Thanks for that comparison. I'm a PRS owner, I have 3 and a gibson owner I have 2. Both great guitars but IMHO I'll take a PRS any day.
I like the PRS, but I'll take my Godin LGXT over either of them, any day of the week. Love the videos, Darrell. Keep up the great work. Very interesting and entertaining.
Clearly, you have a TON of followers, because every time you do a positive review on a mid-low priced piece of gear, theirs a run on them at Sweetwater, AMS, and Zzounds! LOL
I’ve been playing guitar for 45 years and about 25 years ago I got rid of ALL my LP’s due to instability. FF to 4 months ago I saw Alice Cooper(guitarists) ViVian Campbell and Ace Frehley ALL LP players and their tones were GLORIOUS and EPIC having said that I own 3 PRS, but 3 months ago I purchased an LP. NOTHING sounds like a Les Paul
I wish Darrel would bring back the clip of him throwing the acoustic guitar on the roof of his shed and then faceplanting in about 3 feet of snow. That clip is priceless.....🤣🤣
I told you so that PRS wins hands down, and remember you never compared 2 guitars with the same price for money, so really what can we compare in the PRS line for $1779.00 Canadian? Because that's what the Gibson Les Paul Tributes sell here in Canada for New. The PRS that you compared costs around 1/2 of the Gibson. Anyways good video presentation as always. Been a subscriber for about 5 years already.
I recently went to buy a guitar. I was inclined to check out PRS SE and S2. However, what I ended up with was a Gibson LP Tribute. It weighs 7.8 lbs and has that classic LP tone. Fret work is immaculate and the honey burst finish is just awesome
Hey Darrell that's a No Brainer and I haven't even watched your video yet. Of course it's PRS, no questions asked. And remember, we are not including Epiphone into this question or video. Now I will watch your video!
I think they both sounded great but if I had to put money down (and considering the price), it would be the PRS. I have another low end PRS and it just has such a smooth feel that I wouldn't worry about playability.
As of 1-25-23 at GC: Gibson LP Tribute- $1,299 in four finish color choices, or $1,099 for matte black. PRS Starla- $729 as shown in this video. The difference in retail price would pay for a nice Epi LP or a new mid-price combo amp. OR your car payment or something thoughtful for your wife. I'm not a fan boy for either Gibson or PRS for reasons that have very little to do with their guitars, but whatever your tastes, I think everyone would like at least one of each brand in the arsenal and these are both great options. To my ears these are nearly equivalent guitars and they're both well-made and highly playable. I own two Epi LPs and three LP Specials but no PRSs- yet. A Starla would probably be my choice for an entry-level PRS. Looks fine, great value.
I’ve had my metalic green Starla for a little over a year. It beautiful and sounds great. A bit chimey but lovely. Not awesome at staying in tune but not a big deal. Got it for $500 on sale. Sweet!
I picked up a 2016 se custom 24 about a year ago, set up was completely screwed, and didnt stay in tune. Worked on set up, got a 60$ set of grover locking tuners, went to 10s for the strings and finally got it intonated. Stays in tune pretty good now. Next is a bone nut. Im keeping this one.
I have a PRS SE McCarty 594 Singlecut getting delivered to me, tomorrow. I kinda figured that those would be the most "Gibson Less Paul," of the new SE lineup.
I got a McCarty when I traded my Gibsons in for it. I asked for something that would be light, do about the same thing and stay in tune. That's what they recommended and I agreed.
My first gibson was a 2019 Tribute and it resulted in 3 more gibson purchases, a Slash signature, SG standard and Explorer standard. I find fo rme to be true the video Rhett did on gibson vs prs, that each gibson has its own unique character where a PRS is just pure consistency and performance. So Gibson all day long for myself but after hearing the Starla i may want to purchase one as i really liked how the higher gain had a touch more compression giving that nice sizzle, well at least as much as youtube can convey for audio. Love the videos!!
Hi Darrell, a very nice and interesting comparison. Soundwise I clearly prefer the LP for cleans and crunch as it seems to sound much more 3D, full and open at the same time IMO, while the Starla is much more dry and flat to my ears. As you say it's another story with high gain sounds, the Starla wins there with its tight and crisp sound. But I'm more old school and don't play that stuff much. Ergonomically the Starla probably wins - the heel joint and headstock are major improvements, but the switch felt very awkward to me in the store, more clumsy than on a strat. On the other hand I tried one LP Tribute and it sounded pretty dead, much worse than yours... So I guess it's up to one's preferences and musical style, but probably more consistency with PRS... Cheers!
I tried out a LP tribute with this honeyburst in my local store and the neck felt great and it didn't feel heavy. Not a fan of satin finishes of honeyburst in general but I looked pretty good. I think I'd be much happier with the LP than the Starla.
For me, I love the Les Paul, but having owned one (not an Epiphone), and several PRS (core and SE), I had LOTS of problems with the G string binding in the nut. That's why I got rid of my Les Paul. The nearly straight strings through the nut is worth it. I never had issues w/ my PRS and strings binding in the nut.
Great video.. I can no longer justify ultra expensive guitars as epiphone and PRS SE and S2 ranges into a helix or great tube amp means I can tweak the tone if it is slightly ‘inferior’ to say a 3-4k Gibson or core PRS. The audience never can tell the small difference and playability is top of my list. I have some GREAT playing PRS SE and epiphone LP custom pro along side some signature series strats that collect dust mostly…. Most of my heroes played standard straight off the shelf beat up guitars… GAS has a lot to answer for 😂
Darrell, finally lucked up and got my hands on a blue Gibson double cut Les Paul like yours! Shockingly blown away with it! Now I don’t have to keep asking for yours! Lol
I like the Starla. I always like PRS over gibson overall. To each their own. I'd buy the Starla. i know it is a single cut, but in some ways it reminds me of the s2. I like the S2.
The PRS is a clear winner for comfort and weight. I'm not a fan of the PRS wide-fat neck profile at all though. The " Pattern Regular " is by far the most comfortable neck carve with PRS like my S2 Vela has. The PRS SE Mira is another consideration which is a double-cut that has the wide-thin profile neck and is very comfortable to play. The 85/15 S humbuckers in the Mira sound really good also.
"I'm not a fan of the PRS wide-fat neck profile at all though." This. PRS make great guitars but that weird chunky neck profile is definitely only for certain people.
Agree. I had the wide fat on the 245. Overall a nice guitar except the fat neck. Recently bought a Vela S2 and that Pattern Regular is great! Have the Wide Thin och two guitars and they are fine too. However I'm not a fan of the 85/15s pickups, they are too scooped for my taste. I like the TCIs and and those in the Vela much more.
That is indeed also the reason why I bought a Mira, with a wide thin neck. Very comfortable guitar and with a fantastic finish, and very versatile with the coil split possibility, which I use a lot.
I have had a Starla SE for 2 years. It is my favorite guitar over and above the Gibson Les Paul Special I have. In fact I have 3 PRS guitars all with different humbuckers and playability and sound is awesome. You can many times find a PRS used or new on sale for $550. I just paid this for a SE Mira last week new.
I have a Les Paul Tribute, 2017. For some reason I also bought a Les Paul Standard in 2018 for more than double the price of the Tribute. Although the Standard is much prettier and feels expensive in my hands, they both play about the same. But the Tribute is my favorite sounding of the two. Between the PRS and Gibson you played in this video, I thought the Les Paul had fuller tones, which I much prefer.
I'd say the PRS is more for your money, and as im commenting, you took the words out of my mouth haha. 490 pickups are more versatile and rounded, PRS is more snappy and a bit hotter. But if that Gibson came with burstbuckers...different story!
When in OD the Gibson has that growl that personifies the classic Les Paul rock sound. Tom Johnston switched from Gibson to PRS as his guitar of choice and I notice a huge difference when he plays Doobies classics like China Grove and Long Train Runnin'. The PRS just doesn't have the drive that the Les Paul did. I did however, like the clean tones from the Starla better than the LP. Great demo Darrell. I've been curious about this for some time. Thanks!
I thought the LP ruled in Clean and Distorted and the PRS was best in the High Gain 'modern' sound. I saw your review of the PRS Silver Sky SE and have wanted one ever since.
I'm not sure if all s2 models use the same pickups as the se series. fortunately i got an s2 with hfs and bass vintage pickups before they switched. I'm with that guitar for some years now and it is quite well build, very stable. i have an se torero on the other hand that sounds awesome but literally requires a truss rod adjustment per gig
@@pleitch2955 Not really. The SE's are as well built as S2's. The price difference is labour cost and some material cost (veneer vs solid top) that doesn't affect playability. The build quality isn't significantly different.
@@costalongajp This year's 10th Anniversary S2 Standard gets USA Core pickups as a one-off anniversary special edition. In a "normal" production year it's only the Vela that isn't SE pickups, because there's no SE Vela. All other S2's are SE pups/terms/pots. A few commentators (on the back of DGT+McCarty SE's) are predicting S2 range might cease eventually. Who knows, but I can see why they think it could happen.
Initially I felt that the Gibson tone was deeper, fuller, more resonate, which makes me personally gravitate toward it. That said. I have to agree that the PRS has more bite, and I really liked the coil split on this guitar! The variety of tonal options and the fact that it’s literally 1/2 the price makes it stand out as a far better value for cost. I want both lol.
I have to compare again but from what i remember the Gibson studio with the 498t sounded killer for rock music rich articulate responsive growls and mid trebles. I think i was handed a high end prs and the sound didnt blow me away but i have to compare again just to make sure I think even the tribute in this video sounded richer i can hear THAT gibson sound. For cleans a squier classic vibes 60s gets the job done
PRS was a bit more bright..both sounded great as they should at the price point..weight would have me choosing the PRS...thanks for another excellent review...
Love your videos! Would like to hear your opinion on resale value in your reviews. Would the Gibson hold it's value more than a PRS SE if you decided to sell. I bought a PRS SE hollowbody in 2020 and I think it's worth less than I paid if I try and sell it, but the Les Paul Studio I was thinking of buying at that time would be worth a bit more than I would have paid. Just a thought.
Hello Darrell, I've been away for some time now, been ill and slowly recovering, getting older sucks. As far as the guitars I did hear more treble on the PRS but not being an accomplished guitarist I don't have the ear or the skill to determine the differences. As usual an excellent video, you are looking younger, have you lost weight? Something is different but for the better. Thank you , be safe.
I swear I picked up a starla after I had JUST bought a Tremonti and I had buyers remorse because of how good the starla is. Definitely getting one sooner or later
You should put that PRS up against an Epiphone in the same price range, say a Les Paul Custom or a Modern Figured. I don't think I'd trade my Gibson for the Starla but I may pick up one because it seems to be a steal for the price.
There are probably several different ways it could be sliced and diced - from a price point I can see a PRS SE up against a higher end Epiphone, S2 versus a Studio, etc. Maybe next up will be a PRS SE Silver Sky vs a Player Strat...
Darrell, I am leaning toward the PRS, as I have heard too many great things about this guitar. I am so Iam in. I would really enjoy seeing you do a comparison of the Schector Solo II with these, even though price points are a little different. It's because of you I own schecter Solo II, and the PRS SE Hollowbody Piezzo. The cost of Gibson compared to others, is eye opening. Thank You, John
Let me know which guitar had your favorite tone!
Guitar links:
Les Paul Tribute - imp.i114863.net/5bWy99
PRS SE Starla - imp.i114863.net/YgZ0ye
Enjoy :)
Great presentation DARRELL. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m a Gibson Junkie. Personally, just not into PRS. Just me.
I guess it depends what you're going to do what kind of music. And I'd like to see inside of them. Because I found a surprise when I got my Gibson 50s Studio gold top. And I wasn't really very happy PC board. I guess I assumed if it's made in the USA it wouldn't be cheap like that. I haven't gotten around to changing it or does it fit? I bet you will never find a PC board in a PRS guitar. How many guitars does one man need?? LOL?
I may be biased because I own the Starla, but I prefer the brighter, more modern sound.
Prs I GO FOR JUST BECAUSE OF THE BULL GIBSON HAS PULLED .
PRS
Hey Darrell. Wanted to say I appreciate videos like this quite a lot. I'm a fairly new sales employee for a major music retailer, and there wasn't much training provided to me about gear and such, so I find myself having to self-educate about it constantly. I find learning from your videos to be helpful for my own knowledge, and when I'm tasked with helping customers find what suits them, I often think about things I've learned from you. I'd even go as far as to say what I've learned from you has put money in my pocket! Thanks for doing these and please keep it up! 🙂
I was working at another big box chain several years ago and we never got any training, either (other than how to sell in a vague way - and not guitars per se. just general salesmanship). but, luckily the internets were invented and I was already a nerd by the time I started working there.
People like yourself, who self educate instead of waiting for someone to do it for you, are definitely going places 🤘🏼
PRS is killing it with the SE, I just preordered the McCarty SE and I cannot wait.
I wish this McCarty SE had a Santana headstock!
Did you see the DGT SE? I was ready to pull the trigger on the McCarty until I started watching DGT videos.
Strongly prefer the Starla here. Mostly for ergonomics, but I also preferred the tones. It's brighter, but it's easier to tame a bright guitar than to brighten up a warm guitar.
The Les Paul Tribute has more of a classic tone and the PRS Starla SE sounds more modern. They both sound amazing in their own way. The PRS McCarty 594 SE would've been a closer comparison. Great video as usual.
I would've even said the se 245 is more comparable
The Starla is my favourite guitar in my arsenal but I look forward to trying the McCarty 594 SE when it arrives to Australia, from the videos I’ve watched, this new model sounds like those vintage LP thanks to the 58/15 S pickups.
The PRS SE McCarty 594 Standard is all mahogany with a rosewood fret board --- maybe closer yet. I just picked one up, and I'm loving it!
I cant say one sounded better than the other as both sound great. The PRS gets my vote because of the price but needs to have more colour options in my opinion.
I can tell you right now that I’ll take the PRS any day! Fantastic comfortable playing guitars!
I think a fairer comparison would have been something from PRS's S2 line. They're priced about the same as the Tribute, American made, etc. That said, in this case, PRS's import line went against an American Gibson and held its own. Just another reminder that Gibson is mostly a name and look these days.
The Gibsons of today are actually some of the best guitars they've produced in many years. I bought a 2022 Les Paul Standard 60's brand new & it's flawless plus it sounds incredible.
@@jameshughes6049 my 2022 50s Standard is flawless also. Bought off the wall atGC
@@davedavid7061 Awesome!!
This PRS is half the price of the Gibson and stood its ground to say the least, Edging out the Gibson coz of the weight and affordability! Both are entry level.
Gibson is the Apple of guitar companies...
I thought I was going to enjoy the PRS tones more but I liked the warmer, deeper tones of the Les Paul without a doubt, who knew? LOL!
That is my issue i love both but Gibson has that tone that is just warm and magical! PRS really is good though also! I just have to say Gibson but both id love to have!
Although I have never played a Les Paul Tribute, or do I own a Les Paul, I have an SE Starla and love it a lot! Also a quick side note, I own an SE Tremonti as well, and it is pretty awesome as well!
I've had the Gibson LP Tribute and own the PRS SE 24/08.
I kept the the PRS SE 24/08 and sold the LP. The PRS had been such a work horse and with the 24/08 controls to go from humbucker to single coil and from clean to dirty really works much better for what I play. From jazz to blues, to hard rock and to metal.
Plus it weighs less and love the looks. Again for most people IMHO it comes down to preference.
Looking at a lot of guitars and not wanting to own a bunch of different guitars, I wanted a versatile guitar that could get both Fender and Gibson style sounds. What I want is in the PRS SE Custom 24-08. It looks good, sounds good, and plays so comfortably; I'm very glad that I own one too. 👍👍👍
PRS all the way, have an older SE Custom 24, SE Santana(22 fret), SE 35th Anniversary 24-08, S2 22 , and a CE 24. Sold both of my Les Pauls.
The PRS SE Singlecut McCarty 594 would be a closer comparison, but the PRS would stand out even more.
I still remember going to my local guitar and lutherie (Flatland in Fargo, ND) and decided to try out a PRS guitar. I usually avoided them as I had been poor as a kid. I had been makin better money so thought since I coud afford a mid price guitar, I should at leasst give it a shot.
The first one I ever picked up and played was a sky blue SE Starla and played it for about 10 seconds and was just BLOWN AWAY. I looked at the price tag and was just shocked, because it sounded like a REALLY NICE guitar. I asked one of the owners if the tag was mixed up or i had been reading it wrong, he laughed and said that it was right. Then went on about how they are one of the only guitar companies that isnt sheepish about where its import guitars are made and such. and i put a deposit on it instantly and its been tied with my gretsch electromatic jet bt for my favorite guitars I have ever owned.
Honestly, I couldn't tell the difference in sound between the two, both had great tones. Thanks for this comparison review, Darrel.
I got a 2011 PRS SE-One for Christmas that year and it came set-up perfectly right out of the box. I’ve never played a new guitar set-up that well. My cousin stole-it from my storage after I moved here.
I got a 2012 Les Paul Standard 60’s neck a year later … the action & intonation were off & it wouldn’t hold-tune. I sold it at a loss.
You have to use a string butler for any LP style headstock . It’s the reason Paul fixed this issue with straight string pull after the nut .
I own a Starla myself and love it, but that Les Paul sounded a lot warmer and just had a bit more low end response which I really liked. The Starla, though, is super versatile with the split coils, and as with most PRSs you get killer clarity. You hear every note come through with that Starla and I love that too. I don't think one is any better than the other... Very similar but when it comes down to it I think they're just 2 different tools for different kinds of players. But honestly if the LP tone was more of your thing you could always drop the same PUPs in the Starla and likely get there
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news but swapping Gibson pickups into the Starla will not make it sound like a Les Paul
I own and like guitars from both companies. Here, I thought the Gibson sounded better in every sound sample. Yes, the PRS has more high frequency energy ("cut"), but to my ear, it was slightly fizzy and harsh compared to the Gibson.
I love the Tribute. I have several LPs, from standards to custom shops, but the Tribute is nice and light, and the satin finish feels great. If you can find one used, it's an incredible value. However, over the Tribute, I prefer the PRS S2 Vela for a little bit more.
Would you mind expanding on this? I own a tribute (Which is one of my favorite guitars after a pickup swap) and I own a CE24 which is a great guitar as well but I've always said if I buy another PRS it would be a Vela in satin finish. What do you love about the Vela and what would you compare its tone to most guitar wise? I mean looks great, and comes off to me as the kind of guitar you ust don't swap the pickups on ever. They are unique. Thanks in advance!
@@SirNicholasHerron Have you seen the DGT SE that's are coming out? Robert Baker did a side by side with his DGT. Its called "PRS Finally Listened To Us!" That thing looks incredible.
@@steveeckert8396 I have seen it, and I think it’s a fantastic guitar for the money. The only thing stopping me is I’d love to own the core version of that for the full experience. I think despite how good the SE DGT sounds and looks I probably have some guitars that cover that for me already. Not that I couldn’t use another lol. The vela fits a niche for me and I already play a guitar with p90 neck and humbucker in the bridge that’s just so good to me. I love the pickup combo and the Vela kind of mimics that.
Same than Nicholas Herron. Curious to hear that as soon I am strongly considering a Vela. Thought?
That high gain chugging was sick! Please bring back the old intro Darrell, just for a guest appearance, I miss it so much.
The tone of the guitars can be adjusted by amp settings and/or pedals. Playability is a personal experience. I'm quite sure the PRS headstock will be way more solid. 😁
The Tone of a guitar can absolutely NOT be adjusted by any amp, a Tele will never become a Les Paul, a Gretsch will never be a PRS and so on, guitars sound like what they are, adjusting amp setting is just changing amp settings not the guitars tone. If it were that easy i would have one guitar.
@@elevenAD 😹😹😹
I've owned both a Les Paul Tribute and S2 Starla, and hands down, the S2 cleaned house. The LP's frets started to disappear like chalk, and a tuner gear shook loose within a month of having it. The strap buttons on the LP were also tiny, especially compared to the discs on the S2.
The S2 Starla was also much more articulate with high end definition, and could handle high gain without sounding muddy. As a prominently single coil guy, I liked the S2 more.
any other channel I wouldn't have watched.. I don't like either Gibson or PRS... but Darrell's content is always good and worth a watch
What do you like?
I own a 2016 Gibson Goldtop 50's Tribute Les Paul ... I love it. I also own a PRS SE 245 Charcoal Burst... And a PRS SE Custom 24... I love both PRS SE guitars also. Upper Fret access is better on the PRS SE Guitars.
If there ever was a video that defined "not better, just a little different" it's this one. I guess I need both!
PRS definitely was brighter, gave it some nice cut with the overdrive tones, but I think the cleans were better on the Les Paul more rounded and less quacky. I think the tribute is the best bang for your buck in the Gibson line, but Burst Les Pauls look kinda weird without binding though imo.
Have a Starla SE and a couple of Gibson Studios. Starla is more playable and I prefer the tones I get from the Starla through a Fender Hotrod Deluxe IV. I’ve collected about a dozen mid to high end guitars over the years from Kissel, Fender, Gibson, Epiphone, PRS, Sire, and Angelica. I find myself playing the Starla most of the time.
I have a 1997 Heritage 535 and the new ones are retailing around $3K. A Yamaha Pacifica 612 ($650), a Schecter PT ($600) and a PRS S2 single cut in satin which retailed for $1050. I play the PRS S2 more than all the others. The sound and feel from the PRS is great. It was the least expensive S2 at the time and I wanted a Les Paul type guitar. It's very nice.
Only missing a headstock and capability to stay in tune comparison. 😊
I have 3 Gibsons, and 3 american fenders. They were expensive. That said Ive got 2 epiphones, 2 squiers, and a PRS SE. dollars to donuts the best quality for the price is the SE. and its the only guitar I trust the trem to stay in tune on, even better than the usa strats
My dad I bought me a Gibson Melody Maker back in 1964. It plays and sounds as well today as it did then. Couple of years ago, I decided to purchase another electric solid body and decided on a Gibson Les Paul Tribute because I love the sound and playability. I feel that a Gibson is something I can hand off to my grandchildren and am confident it will serve them well.
if that tribute had binding it would be perfect
Ok but the PRS is $570 cheaper. So yes I would definitely buy the PRS. I know the tribute is made in the USA but that doesn’t mean what it used to.
Also if you're not american, it doesn't mean anything anyways. Both asian and american guitars are foreign to me.
I find all these videos useful because they are comparing value as well as performance. No one really expects the prs se to exceed the Gibson but how it measures up, how close or lacking to a Gibson is great info. These videos are about showcasing value (price vs quality/ performance)
I went to a guitar store a while ago for a Gibson Tribute (the white one, with white neck). I found the finishing to be terrible, to the point that I asked the sales representative if it was a B-stock item. But it wasn’t! I ended up buying a PRS SE Custom Semi-Hollow and I don’t regret it at all. Amazing guitar, great value, super comfortable and flawless finishing for less money than I would throw on a Gibson.
The pricepoints were different, which means the PRS really shines. Shouldn't the "Gibson" in that price point be an Epiphone? Then compare which is the better affordable guitar? Ok, to answer the question... I'd like to lean towards the PRS, but I liked the Les Paul's clean neck tone a lot better (I'm a 'warmth' kinda guy). OTOH, I liked the PRS's bridge crunch more. Both sounded great.
PRS is not afraid to put their name "PRS' on the SE's. Gibson chooses to rebrand to Epiphone- chickens
Loved them both. I'd personally be in the PRS camp. Both sounded awesome.
You should compare the Gibson with a Schecter Solo 2 custom. PLEEEEEASE
This is the best guitar review channel online, I'd love to know what cams etc he uses
Right off the bat I liked the Gibson neck pickup both clean and distorted.
Finally, PRS pickups that I liked!!!
Yikes I’m surprised to hear the clarity and openness of the Starla, sounds good and wasn’t expecting that in comparison to the LP.
Very interesting to read through the comments and sometimes see the exactly opposite experience of other guitar aficionados, wondering how what we listen to the video on affects our hearing.
I’m using Bose earbuds, very full, clear and balanced.
I got my Son a PRS Mark Holcomb 7 string and it sounds Amazing ! He plays an S2 now but he wanted another one for drop tuning and it sounds so full.
PRS for me cause I like a good guitar for chugging out of the box. Plus it stays in tune.
Gibsons stay in tune too. But you wouldnt know
@@Ottophil I own a LP Modern so I have a clue. Gotta have one to keep the holy trinity intact.
Great job Darrell. Thanks for that comparison. I'm a PRS owner, I have 3 and a gibson owner I have 2. Both great guitars but IMHO I'll take a PRS any day.
I have a Gibson LP 50s Classic, with a Bixby. Love it!!
But I love my American Strat too.
I like the PRS, but I'll take my Godin LGXT over either of them, any day of the week. Love the videos, Darrell. Keep up the great work. Very interesting and entertaining.
Clearly, you have a TON of followers, because every time you do a positive review on a mid-low priced piece of gear, theirs a run on them at Sweetwater, AMS, and Zzounds! LOL
I’ve been playing guitar for 45 years and about 25 years ago I got rid of ALL my LP’s due to instability. FF to 4 months ago I saw Alice Cooper(guitarists) ViVian Campbell and Ace Frehley ALL LP players and their tones were GLORIOUS and EPIC having said that I own 3 PRS, but 3 months ago I purchased an LP. NOTHING sounds like a Les Paul
love the clarity of the starla over the les paul, to my ears
I wish Darrel would bring back the clip of him throwing the acoustic guitar on the roof of his shed and then faceplanting in about 3 feet of snow. That clip is priceless.....🤣🤣
Surprised you didn’t wait to put the SE 594 vs the Tribute.
I told you so that PRS wins hands down, and remember you never compared 2 guitars with the same price for money, so really what can we compare in the PRS line for $1779.00 Canadian? Because that's what the Gibson Les Paul Tributes sell here in Canada for New.
The PRS that you compared costs around 1/2 of the Gibson.
Anyways good video presentation as always. Been a subscriber for about 5 years already.
I recently went to buy a guitar. I was inclined to check out PRS SE and S2. However, what I ended up with was a Gibson LP Tribute. It weighs 7.8 lbs and has that classic LP tone. Fret work is immaculate and the honey burst finish is just awesome
Hey Darrell that's a No Brainer and I haven't even watched your video yet.
Of course it's PRS, no questions asked.
And remember, we are not including Epiphone into this question or video.
Now I will watch your video!
I like the sound of the Gibson best which s why I bought one, but agree with your evaluation on what type of music you are playing, both are great.
I think they both sounded great but if I had to put money down (and considering the price), it would be the PRS. I have another low end PRS and it just has such a smooth feel that I wouldn't worry about playability.
As of 1-25-23 at GC: Gibson LP Tribute- $1,299 in four finish color choices, or $1,099 for matte black. PRS Starla- $729 as shown in this video. The difference in retail price would pay for a nice Epi LP or a new mid-price combo amp. OR your car payment or something thoughtful for your wife. I'm not a fan boy for either Gibson or PRS for reasons that have very little to do with their guitars, but whatever your tastes, I think everyone would like at least one of each brand in the arsenal and these are both great options. To my ears these are nearly equivalent guitars and they're both well-made and highly playable. I own two Epi LPs and three LP Specials but no PRSs- yet. A Starla would probably be my choice for an entry-level PRS. Looks fine, great value.
PRS is the best made and sounding electric right now on the market imo.
I’ve had my metalic green Starla for a little over a year. It beautiful and sounds great. A bit chimey but lovely. Not awesome at staying in tune but not a big deal. Got it for $500 on sale. Sweet!
I picked up a 2016 se custom 24 about a year ago, set up was completely screwed, and didnt stay in tune. Worked on set up, got a 60$ set of grover locking tuners, went to 10s for the strings and finally got it intonated. Stays in tune pretty good now. Next is a bone nut. Im keeping this one.
The PRS. How close would it be if the PRS was the DGT
I have a PRS SE McCarty 594 Singlecut getting delivered to me, tomorrow. I kinda figured that those would be the most "Gibson Less Paul," of the new SE lineup.
I got a McCarty when I traded my Gibsons in for it. I asked for something that would be light, do about the same thing and stay in tune. That's what they recommended and I agreed.
Darrell--you're playing has improved so much. Not sure what you're doing but your improved playing makes your reviews better!
Joe, it's practice! I agree, Darrell often surprises me with his playing.
How did you know I needed this video right now!
My first gibson was a 2019 Tribute and it resulted in 3 more gibson purchases, a Slash signature, SG standard and Explorer standard. I find fo rme to be true the video Rhett did on gibson vs prs, that each gibson has its own unique character where a PRS is just pure consistency and performance. So Gibson all day long for myself but after hearing the Starla i may want to purchase one as i really liked how the higher gain had a touch more compression giving that nice sizzle, well at least as much as youtube can convey for audio. Love the videos!!
Go the S2 route imo
Hi Darrell, a very nice and interesting comparison. Soundwise I clearly prefer the LP for cleans and crunch as it seems to sound much more 3D, full and open at the same time IMO, while the Starla is much more dry and flat to my ears. As you say it's another story with high gain sounds, the Starla wins there with its tight and crisp sound. But I'm more old school and don't play that stuff much. Ergonomically the Starla probably wins - the heel joint and headstock are major improvements, but the switch felt very awkward to me in the store, more clumsy than on a strat. On the other hand I tried one LP Tribute and it sounded pretty dead, much worse than yours... So I guess it's up to one's preferences and musical style, but probably more consistency with PRS... Cheers!
That LP sounds fantastic
I tried out a LP tribute with this honeyburst in my local store and the neck felt great and it didn't feel heavy. Not a fan of satin finishes of honeyburst in general but I looked pretty good. I think I'd be much happier with the LP than the Starla.
For me, I love the Les Paul, but having owned one (not an Epiphone), and several PRS (core and SE), I had LOTS of problems with the G string binding in the nut. That's why I got rid of my Les Paul. The nearly straight strings through the nut is worth it. I never had issues w/ my PRS and strings binding in the nut.
Great video.. I can no longer justify ultra expensive guitars as epiphone and PRS SE and S2 ranges into a helix or great tube amp means I can tweak the tone if it is slightly ‘inferior’ to say a 3-4k Gibson or core PRS. The audience never can tell the small difference and playability is top of my list. I have some GREAT playing PRS SE and epiphone LP custom pro along side some signature series strats that collect dust mostly…. Most of my heroes played standard straight off the shelf beat up guitars… GAS has a lot to answer for 😂
Darrell, finally lucked up and got my hands on a blue Gibson double cut Les Paul like yours! Shockingly blown away with it! Now I don’t have to keep asking for yours! Lol
I just bought a Gibson LP Tribute in Honeyburst and it's out for delivery right now!😎🎸
I like the Starla. I always like PRS over gibson overall. To each their own. I'd buy the Starla. i know it is a single cut, but in some ways it reminds me of the s2. I like the S2.
The PRS is a clear winner for comfort and weight. I'm not a fan of the PRS wide-fat neck profile at all though. The " Pattern Regular " is by far the most comfortable neck carve with PRS like my S2 Vela has. The PRS SE Mira is another consideration which is a double-cut that has the wide-thin profile neck and is very comfortable to play. The 85/15 S humbuckers in the Mira sound really good also.
"I'm not a fan of the PRS wide-fat neck profile at all though."
This. PRS make great guitars but that weird chunky neck profile is definitely only for certain people.
Agree. I had the wide fat on the 245. Overall a nice guitar except the fat neck. Recently bought a Vela S2 and that Pattern Regular is great! Have the Wide Thin och two guitars and they are fine too. However I'm not a fan of the 85/15s pickups, they are too scooped for my taste. I like the TCIs and and those in the Vela much more.
I have an SE Custom 24 and an SE Mira, I can vouch for the Mira, it's every bit as great as the C24 and A LOT lighter too.
That is indeed also the reason why I bought a Mira, with a wide thin neck. Very comfortable guitar and with a fantastic finish, and very versatile with the coil split possibility, which I use a lot.
I have had a Starla SE for 2 years. It is my favorite guitar over and above the Gibson Les Paul Special I have. In fact I have 3 PRS guitars all with different humbuckers and playability and sound is awesome. You can many times find a PRS used or new on sale for $550. I just paid this for a SE Mira last week new.
🔝🔝please don't miss this opportunity I'm given you🎁🎁🔝📍🎄🎄
Hey Darell. Great show like always
Thanks. Great choices. Just ordered a Starla.
I have a Les Paul Tribute, 2017. For some reason I also bought a Les Paul Standard in 2018 for more than double the price of the Tribute. Although the Standard is much prettier and feels expensive in my hands, they both play about the same. But the Tribute is my favorite sounding of the two. Between the PRS and Gibson you played in this video, I thought the Les Paul had fuller tones, which I much prefer.
I'd say the PRS is more for your money, and as im commenting, you took the words out of my mouth haha. 490 pickups are more versatile and rounded, PRS is more snappy and a bit hotter. But if that Gibson came with burstbuckers...different story!
When in OD the Gibson has that growl that personifies the classic Les Paul rock sound. Tom Johnston switched from Gibson to PRS as his guitar of choice and I notice a huge difference when he plays Doobies classics like China Grove and Long Train Runnin'. The PRS just doesn't have the drive that the Les Paul did. I did however, like the clean tones from the Starla better than the LP.
Great demo Darrell. I've been curious about this for some time. Thanks!
Another great comparison video! Both sounded great, but I’d lean towards the PRS! Thanks Darrell 🤘🏼
There is a clarity and articulation I really like with the PRS
Thanks for the great content!!
If you had to pick, which would you prefer, D?
I thought the LP ruled in Clean and Distorted and the PRS was best in the High Gain 'modern' sound. I saw your review of the PRS Silver Sky SE and have wanted one ever since.
Personally the S2 line from PRS would be more in line with the Tribute.
SE and S2 use the same pickups. They'll sound the same.
@PaulCooksStuff yes but , build quality will be different
I'm not sure if all s2 models use the same pickups as the se series. fortunately i got an s2 with hfs and bass vintage pickups before they switched. I'm with that guitar for some years now and it is quite well build, very stable. i have an se torero on the other hand that sounds awesome but literally requires a truss rod adjustment per gig
@@pleitch2955 Not really. The SE's are as well built as S2's. The price difference is labour cost and some material cost (veneer vs solid top) that doesn't affect playability. The build quality isn't significantly different.
@@costalongajp This year's 10th Anniversary S2 Standard gets USA Core pickups as a one-off anniversary special edition. In a "normal" production year it's only the Vela that isn't SE pickups, because there's no SE Vela. All other S2's are SE pups/terms/pots. A few commentators (on the back of DGT+McCarty SE's) are predicting S2 range might cease eventually. Who knows, but I can see why they think it could happen.
Initially I felt that the Gibson tone was deeper, fuller, more resonate, which makes me personally gravitate toward it. That said. I have to agree that the PRS has more bite, and I really liked the coil split on this guitar! The variety of tonal options and the fact that it’s literally 1/2 the price makes it stand out as a far better value for cost. I want both lol.
I have the tribune and love it haven’t played the Starla but great review thanks
PRS sppears to be rising as the choice for so many. Gibson definitely is quality and legendary, of course.
I love my prs se custom semi hollow body w/soapbar pickups. I have a Paul and strat, but come back to the prs. It’s amazing to me!
I have to compare again but from what i remember the Gibson studio with the 498t sounded killer for rock music rich articulate responsive growls and mid trebles. I think i was handed a high end prs and the sound didnt blow me away but i have to compare again just to make sure
I think even the tribute in this video sounded richer i can hear THAT gibson sound.
For cleans a squier classic vibes 60s gets the job done
PRS was a bit more bright..both sounded great as they should at the price point..weight would have me choosing the PRS...thanks for another excellent review...
Love your videos! Would like to hear your opinion on resale value in your reviews. Would the Gibson hold it's value more than a PRS SE if you decided to sell. I bought a PRS SE hollowbody in 2020 and I think it's worth less than I paid if I try and sell it, but the Les Paul Studio I was thinking of buying at that time would be worth a bit more than I would have paid. Just a thought.
Darrell I love you man and I respect you massively as one of the biggest bros on the guitar scene online.
It's time.....time to review a Fujigen. 🙏🙏🙏
I have that prs Starla, love it and prefer it over the gibson
Hello Darrell, I've been away for some time now, been ill and slowly recovering, getting older sucks. As far as the guitars I did hear more treble on the PRS but not being an accomplished guitarist I don't have the ear or the skill to determine the differences. As usual an excellent video, you are looking younger, have you lost weight? Something is different but for the better. Thank you , be safe.
I swear I picked up a starla after I had JUST bought a Tremonti and I had buyers remorse because of how good the starla is. Definitely getting one sooner or later
You’ll love it
Nice to see a PRS without the bling both sounded great !!
Do they only sell the Tribute with maple neck? My 2013 has mahogany. Only see these in YT.
The first demo riff reminded me of Van Halen’s ‘316’ straight away
You know what really matters? What sound you want. Brand and price? Give me the sound. That spawns song ideas. Great video Darrel.
You should put that PRS up against an Epiphone in the same price range, say a Les Paul Custom or a Modern Figured. I don't think I'd trade my Gibson for the Starla but I may pick up one because it seems to be a steal for the price.
I see I was ~8 minutes behind your comment. My thoughts exactly.
There are probably several different ways it could be sliced and diced - from a price point I can see a PRS SE up against a higher end Epiphone, S2 versus a Studio, etc. Maybe next up will be a PRS SE Silver Sky vs a Player Strat...
Agreed but I would like to see the epi 1959 against the Starla
Thanks for the comparison. They sound almost the same to my ear. But the price will make the differences.
Darrell, I am leaning toward the PRS, as I have heard too many great things about this guitar.
I am so Iam in.
I would really enjoy seeing you do a comparison of the Schector Solo II with these, even though price points are a little different.
It's because of you I own schecter Solo II, and the PRS SE Hollowbody Piezzo.
The cost of Gibson compared to others, is eye opening.
Thank You,
John
🔝🔝please don't miss this opportunity I'm given you🎁🎁🔝📍🎄🎄..