Heck yeah, i just recently got a older prs mira guitar for my birthday and i couldn’t be happier, i love it sm. one of my buddies is getting a mccarty 594 se and they look amazing. Great video!
I love PRS guitars, i own guitars from all ranges and models. I love the S2 line, these are incredible guitars in look, feel and playability. Developments in the SE line don’t make me regret my S2 purchases but i do think they should upgrade some hardware and electronics to USA made, starting minimal with the pickups. It’s realistic to expect that less people will be interested in the S2 line.
Just got my nephew the double cutaway model for his graduation present last week. Liked it so much I'm waiting on delivery of my mccarty singlecut standard in vintage cherry.
There's a big difference in the quality of woods and craftsmanship in the S2. You're not going to get perfectly level frets with an SE and the USA neck building process is probably the most impressive things about them as they take about 6 weeks to make which is nuts. Then there is resale value and that's why i'll always go for the USA models if possible. Of course the SE line is unbelievable and you really can't go wrong with anything you buy from PRS. I wish Fender had the same kind of quality control but they're not even close and as far as production guitars are concerned I think PRS is the best of all of them.
I just received my SE 594 today and it’s damaged. Has to go back, but I must say , its quality is everything reviews say it is. Fretwork is fantastic, looks great finish wise and sounds great. Action at the nut is spot on, no dead notes. I will be getting it replaced, nice instrument.
@@TomButwin ya it’s perfect I every way but. I bought it from Sweetwater and I have a case file and it will be replaced when they get some more. Shipping box not damaged, it’s a mystery. It’s a bit different feel than my strays, very slinky, hope I get use to it.
You're not the first to point this out and, according to the PRS specs, you're absolutely correct. However, I need to get confirmation that the 85/15 "S" pickups truly are EXACTLY the same in both the S2 and SE now. I do think there are some wiring/electronic differences between the two lines. Either way, my point still remains...if you can get the Core pickups (a la carte or in the S2 10th Anniversary edition), it really changes the conversation for SE vs S2 vs Core 594.
I have both the SE and the S2 594’s. I also have a core 594. The question posed in this video is a good one. I can tell you that in all reality, the S2 is better. Is it $1k better? No, it’s not. If PRS upgrades the S2 pickups to the American ones, there’s more reason to keep the S2 going. I think that PRS is testing this idea with the 10th Anniversary edition limited run.
Haven't played one yet, but based on what I've been seeing PRS is just killing it with their SE line. I think S2 will stick around because there will always be players who want/can afford American made guitars. Honestly if it were me today and I had to choose I'd go SE. Even if you wanted an after market hardshell, case you're still under the price of an S2 (which doesn't have a hardshell) and you still have a decent guitar for the price. Thanks again for another great video Tom!
They really have been doing great things with the later model SEs. The Hollowbody II Piezo, Silver Sky SE, and now 594 SE I've played have all been really, really good instruments. Not just "good for the price," but legit good guitars. There's a very good argument to be made for some of these SE's vs S2's!
Sounds great! I love the S2 stuff and it’s great that the new SE stuff is even competing with some of the stuff out of the Maryland factory! I gotta try some of the new SE’s, the only one I’ve ever played was an older SE custom 24 which I really didn’t like so I’m curious. Great video as always Tom!
They have absolutely upped their game in the SE line. They are worth a look, for sure. I had similar experiences with SE guitars in the past as well. All three of the newer SEs they've sent me have been phenomenal, though!
I purchased a used S2 Starla for $800 a little over a year ago. My local shop had a handful of Starlas, all SEs in different colors, and then the single S2. The SEs were all new, except for one, so I started from the bottom up, eventually trying out the S2. As soon as I picked up the S2, I knew I was leaving with it that day. Would I have bought the S2 for $1,500? Maybe. But with it being used for $800, I knew that if I didn't grab it, it would probably be gone the next day.
The pickups in the McCarty S2 line are the same as the SE. They are both 58/15 LT S pickups with the "S" designation designating the import version of the US core model pickups. There is an S2 10-Year anniversary model of the McCarty guitar this year with US pickups in there for a bit of a premium around $2200 but if you don't get that and were planning on getting the basic S2 McCarty guitar (single or double cut versions) they both come with the 58/15 LT S import pickups in case that helps you make your mind up. So the main difference is US vs. Indonesian made and the body carve. I think the hardware is mostly the same too. Of course the feel of the neck and the how the different body carves may make the guitars feel different to play will likely determine whether you prefer one over the other and then it's a question of value for money if that is a consideration for you. Good luck in making your choice and thanks for the video.
As a person that has owned almost every core model, a few Private Stocks, and some wood library models, over the past 25 years, I must admit my 4 SE Silver Skys, my McCarty 594 SE single and double cuts are absolutely amazing. As a bonus, I love the stock pickups and I am not one to typically leave stock pickups in many guitars. I've never thought for a second about replacing them.
Great video! If the S2 feels & plays better, I would go for that. I know it`s $950 VS $1950 and you could get two SE for the price of one and they are really great. However, I don’t need two SE just to have two guitars. I would also spend more just to support the Maryland factory.
There are certainly other factors to consider, but feel/playability-wise (at least for the guitars they’ve sent me), they are REALLY close. So close that it’s absolutely thrown off my decision making lol. Funny enough it might end up pushing me beyond an S2 and to a Core 594.
I just got my SE 594 McCarty Double Cut, on sale for $759, it's my first PRS and I'm extremely impressed. I've been a Les Paul player for 30 years, and this has really opened my eyes to how good some import guitars can be.
I would choose the S2. I own two. I picked them each up for around $1000 - $1400. It’s not going to be the case for long that you can pickup a USA made PRS for $1000. Especially now the market has cooled they are great buys.
Thanks, Quinn! No, all the McCarty’s (and Les Paul’s) have that style cutout. For some reason, sitting down, I don’t like it as much as a Strat/Silver Sky/acoustic. Just sits weird. Standing, they are great though. It’s absolutely not a deal-breaker, just something I noticed.
I'll say this. I have been playing the SE line on and off for almost 20 years. I just purchased the most recent Custom 24 in black gold and in terms of quality, fit, and finish... I've never had better in the price range. I have a Custom 24 Floyd from last year and it's close, but this new line of SE's is stellar. With their recent special pricing, it's unbeatable! I just bought this exact McCarty model and expect nothing less in quality. Their boys at the Cort factory have brought their A Game and are crushing it.
I just purchased this exact prs, after owning a 2013 tremonti SE. I figured it just turned 10 years old so i would try something new. And oh my god, the build quality and pickups on the new SE are noticably better
Not really. The prices have been creeping up so the S2 line is starting to be at that 2k level. It seems to me that the “consumer” price point (not pro or collector) is from $600-maybe $1,500.
@@TomButwin not exactly. The price of an s2 is probably spot on. Just form looking at several guitar makers (imported of course) have the prices between that $600-$1,500 range. Just 10 years ago the S2s were topping at $1,300. there will be a market for the s2 line and trust ill buy a guitar for $2k rather than $4k, and that really is the true argument.
The shop I take lessons at is a large PRS retailer and I often hang around after my lesson and noodle around on the guitars. The se 594 is superior to most of the S2 line. So easy to play and is incredibly resonant. I’m buying a blue quilted top version. Drop dead gorgeous and I won’t be afraid to scratch it.
I have read and heard quite a number of times that PRS SE series guitars are "toys", compared to their higher level ones. And a professional musician I hold in high esteem told me that they lack the “consistency” of their U.S.-made sisters. Before I bought an SE 594 Double Cut I went around various stores, going to try Core and S2 also in A/B comparisons. But, it may be that I am a raw amateur, but I could not hear such differences that I would choose to spend more on something that to me is more esoteric than real.
Dude I bought that 594 single cutaway and I can't find a thing wrong with it. When you say the neck and pickups have that vintage feel and sound you are very right.... Go ahead and buy it you'll be glad you did ✌️✌️
I think it's an S2 wounder, but not a total killer by design. The Maryland plant has quite a backlog and my guess is their slimmest profit margin is on the S2s. The SE version takes a lot of pressure off the Maryland plant while preserving or even increasing sales and profits. It's a smart move from a business perspective. Why sacrifice sales just because the Maryland factory can't keep up with demand? To most prospective buyers the SE is a better looking guitar with the same hardware for half the price. If the Maryland plant should catch up and they want to sell more of the S2 version, all they have to do is toss core pickups in them and the S2s "value" is restored. They'll up the price to compensate of course, after conditioning you to pay $2200 for an S2 "special edition" to test the market. It's all pretty much SOP for Paul and his marketing team. You can hardly blame them, it's a fiercely competitive industry and they're making competitive moves :)
I thought the SE 594 would be the right guitar for me and my smaller hands, but noticed the reviews that I watched the reviewer did not play the upper frets. So I made my way to a guitar center to get one in my hands. Sure enough the upper frets are really so close together that they are difficult to use.
I think it’d be pretty close with the Core pickups. Not exactly the same, but certainly very good. The SE pickups are also really good, just different.
I have the same 594 SE as what you reviewed, and I agree. It’s amazing. I have always been down on S2 guitars because it seems like they’re SE made in the USA. Nothing really differentiates them but the logo on the headstock for twice the price. I’m less sold on the carve differences mattering but even then I prefer the rounded one.
You miss many points on the benefits of S2 over SE...better woods/better frets/better fret job/better finish/better resale/better body shape/better tuners/better neck size/better setup{10s)/better feel/better wieght and comfort/ gold script USA logo and serial#. Too many online posts misinform student edition owners to think they have more than what they bought.
I wouldn’t say they look “cheap,” but they absolutely have a more utility-ish look to them…which I guess is their intended purpose? It’s that top carve that really changes it.
I still think the S2s are much more nicely appointed. The woods are much better, the finish is noticeably thinner, and they're going to start putting PRS USA pickups in them.
It could! I truly don't think the S2 is going anywhere anytime soon, but I do have to say, if you can get over the fact that the SE's aren't made in Maryland, there's a very good argument to be made that it's diminishing returns to go to an S2 in most cases. Everyone's needs/wants/desires are different, though.
im heading to the states in June and gonna buy the SE then the Core pickups for sure, the cost is still lower than the s2 and gives me some cash for some extra add ons or pedals
The Core model has a true AAA figured top rather than the laminated SE top, and higher quality pickups, other than that the SE sounds so close that it makes sense to buy it. I have a SE model and it's off the charts, I will buy the Core because I do want the top of the line that holds it's value.
The SE & S2 difference for me is - The S2 models are made with a one piece body, two piece cap ( if applicable) and a 3 piece (not counting wings on head stock) neck from one piece of wood. While the SE line is made with a 3 piece body, any cap is covered with venire and a 5 piece neck from 3 pieces of wood glued together. The SE line is a bunch of scrap wood glued together and the S2's are solid instruments (pun intended). If you upgrade a SE model, the parts put into it will out value the wood. Upgrade a S2 model the parts put into it will add value to the instrument. The SE line in PRS is like the Epiphone to Gibson, The Mexican Strat to the U.S. Strat. SE's are the perfect model to start with but don't dump a bunch of money into them. wait until you get an S2.
Own both. I prefer the S2. Currently working on selling the SE. Doesn’t seem to be much want for the SE in the used market. Selling it cheap too. Go figure.
I would pay for the S2, but I can't stand the hard carve shape on the body. I have an SE on pre-order, but sadly it's not expected to ship til mid-April...
That hard carve is definitely different. If I wasn't comparing it to the Core 594 top carve, the S2 wouldn't be so jarring. I honestly really enjoyed the SE, so I think it'll be worth the wait for you. Did you get a double cut or single?
While both the SE and S2 have the 85/15 “S” pickups, there are some wiring/manufacturing differences, I’m fairly certain. I’ll double check with them! And yes, the S2 10th Anniversary has the US-made, Core model pickups.
I think the SE offers substantially more value for the money than the S2, and quality-wise, the SE is as good as or very close to the S2. Did you end up buying either of them?
@@TomButwin I could see where that would make the decision more difficult, But couldn't you could swap in a set of the core pups on the SE and still be way ahead on $$$. The S2 retails for $2349 on Sweetwater. That's a hefty price tag compared to $899 for the SE. The tuners may be better on the S2, although the consensus is that the ones on the SE are still rock solid. The S2 does have the nitrocellulose finish, which is a definite plus, but all in all, I guess the question is whether the S2 is worth over $1500 more than the SE?
I’ve had an s2 singlecut several years ago. Still the best guitar I played ever. A few weeks ago after watching these videos on RUclips, I decided to purchase the SE McCarty, and it was a disaster. The guitar feels cheap: finish problems, cheap plastic, cheap knobs, cheap tuners. Muffled unbalanced sound. I returned it back to the shop with no regrets. So, guys, don’t believe these videos, where bloggers will sell you an SE saying, that it’s as good as an US made guitar. It’s just not true. Another sad thing about that is that SE became really overpriced. Here in Europe the new McCarty SE costs almost 1200 EUR. In my opinion, fair price is maximum 600.
Aw man, that sucks you had that experience. PRS doesn’t pay me and I give my honest reactions and opinions on the guitars. I legitimately enjoyed this one and had a very good experience and was impressed. Sorry to hear your experience wasn’t the same.
No such thing In my book as a guitar that doesn't get played out. I wouldn't pay 2-6g for a guitar and not play it out.. That being said I'm really contemplating this very guitar.... Ughhh decisions decisions lol Love it
I play a 408 and a CE24 in my band, and wanted a lower output Singlecut in the mix, so I picked up a McCarty SE Singlecut 594, and it can hang with my CE. It plays as good. Sounds different, but still excellent. The 408 is in a class of its own, but it was also 4x the price…
just bought a 594 SE singlecut in vintage burst...what a great guitar....can't really fault it.....the fret ends need a bit of attention, but that's it.....BUT...my 15 year old prs SE singlecut with rosewood fretboard and 2 dragon II pickups is the better guitar...plays better and sounds better.....just saying....
The S2 seems obsolete. SE andCore are the best lines. It’s crazy that S2’s are priced at what core models used to be priced at. I would get an SE and upgrade the lockings tuners and pickups if you aren’t happy with the SE pickups.but SE pickups are really good these days. The SE are finally brilliant guitars in the last few years and no longer budget guitars.
It’s definitely got a different look! The S2 is much more “utility” looking to me, but pictures really don’t do it justice. It’s much more elegant in person.
The S2 line never made sense to me. It’s not worth double the price of the SE models in my mind. And the carve of the S2 is 🤮 to me. Makes it look like an even cheaper version of the SE.
Valid! Each person has that guitar feel and sound that they want the most. I’m pretty new to this so I’m trying to find ‘that’ guitar that does it for me
You'll know when you know! Guitars don't have to be expensive to be "the one," that's for sure. Happy to help answer any questions you might have as well.
My USA S2 with upgrades totally rocks. SE does NOT yield same quality.. All PRS pickups and electronics are sterile in my books...but a USA PRS with SD pickups is a real player that I love.
Hm, I’ve had good experiences with the SS single coils and also the Core humbuckers (love those, actually). As far as S2 and SE pickups, they’re by no means “bad,” but they are definitely the weak point of those guitars. I’d still love to try one with SDs though! No doubt it’d be great.
594 SE on Sweetwater: sweetwater.sjv.io/3e0EMk
594 SE on Zzounds: www.zzounds.com/a--3980673/item--PRSSEMC594
Heck yeah, i just recently got a older prs mira guitar for my birthday and i couldn’t be happier, i love it sm. one of my buddies is getting a mccarty 594 se and they look amazing. Great video!
Go grab that McCarty 594 SE when your friend gets it and try it! Curious to hear what you think. Those Mira's are cool!
I love PRS guitars, i own guitars from all ranges and models. I love the S2 line, these are incredible guitars in look, feel and playability. Developments in the SE line don’t make me regret my S2 purchases but i do think they should upgrade some hardware and electronics to USA made, starting minimal with the pickups. It’s realistic to expect that less people will be interested in the S2 line.
And …. They did
Just got my nephew the double cutaway model for his graduation present last week. Liked it so much I'm waiting on delivery of my mccarty singlecut standard in vintage cherry.
That’s incredible! Congrats to you both.
There's a big difference in the quality of woods and craftsmanship in the S2. You're not going to get perfectly level frets with an SE and the USA neck building process is probably the most impressive things about them as they take about 6 weeks to make which is nuts. Then there is resale value and that's why i'll always go for the USA models if possible. Of course the SE line is unbelievable and you really can't go wrong with anything you buy from PRS. I wish Fender had the same kind of quality control but they're not even close and as far as production guitars are concerned I think PRS is the best of all of them.
I just received my SE 594 today and it’s damaged. Has to go back, but I must say , its quality is everything reviews say it is. Fretwork is fantastic, looks great finish wise and sounds great. Action at the nut is spot on, no dead notes. I will be getting it replaced, nice instrument.
Ah! Damaged?! That’s awful. Shipping issue, I’m assuming? Hope whoever you bought it from replaces it asap.
@@TomButwin ya it’s perfect I every way but. I bought it from Sweetwater and I have a case file and it will be replaced when they get some more. Shipping box not damaged, it’s a mystery. It’s a bit different feel than my strays, very slinky, hope I get use to it.
I’m sure Sweetwater will make it right. They’re great.
The previous S2 use the same pickups as the SE line. Now the PRS S2 10th anniversary guitars come with the USA made (Core Model) pickups.
You're not the first to point this out and, according to the PRS specs, you're absolutely correct. However, I need to get confirmation that the 85/15 "S" pickups truly are EXACTLY the same in both the S2 and SE now. I do think there are some wiring/electronic differences between the two lines. Either way, my point still remains...if you can get the Core pickups (a la carte or in the S2 10th Anniversary edition), it really changes the conversation for SE vs S2 vs Core 594.
@@TomButwin I believe people will look forward to seeing you to introduce the 10th anniversary S2 custom 24 and the new S2 McCarty.
I would LOVE to get my hands on one of those. Here’s hoping…
Tbh i like se mccarthy pickup way more the those s2 10th anniversary model tho
I have both the SE and the S2 594’s. I also have a core 594. The question posed in this video is a good one. I can tell you that in all reality, the S2 is better. Is it $1k better? No, it’s not. If PRS upgrades the S2 pickups to the American ones, there’s more reason to keep the S2 going. I think that PRS is testing this idea with the 10th Anniversary edition limited run.
How about we put core pickup in SE model? Would you say it would be as good as S2 and Core or even better?
Haven't played one yet, but based on what I've been seeing PRS is just killing it with their SE line. I think S2 will stick around because there will always be players who want/can afford American made guitars. Honestly if it were me today and I had to choose I'd go SE. Even if you wanted an after market hardshell, case you're still under the price of an S2 (which doesn't have a hardshell) and you still have a decent guitar for the price. Thanks again for another great video Tom!
They really have been doing great things with the later model SEs. The Hollowbody II Piezo, Silver Sky SE, and now 594 SE I've played have all been really, really good instruments. Not just "good for the price," but legit good guitars. There's a very good argument to be made for some of these SE's vs S2's!
Good to know ! Thanks :)
Sounds great! I love the S2 stuff and it’s great that the new SE stuff is even competing with some of the stuff out of the Maryland factory! I gotta try some of the new SE’s, the only one I’ve ever played was an older SE custom 24 which I really didn’t like so I’m curious. Great video as always Tom!
They have absolutely upped their game in the SE line. They are worth a look, for sure. I had similar experiences with SE guitars in the past as well. All three of the newer SEs they've sent me have been phenomenal, though!
I purchased a used S2 Starla for $800 a little over a year ago. My local shop had a handful of Starlas, all SEs in different colors, and then the single S2. The SEs were all new, except for one, so I started from the bottom up, eventually trying out the S2. As soon as I picked up the S2, I knew I was leaving with it that day. Would I have bought the S2 for $1,500? Maybe. But with it being used for $800, I knew that if I didn't grab it, it would probably be gone the next day.
That’s an insanely good deal. I would have done the same.
The pickups in the McCarty S2 line are the same as the SE. They are both 58/15 LT S pickups with the "S" designation designating the import version of the US core model pickups. There is an S2 10-Year anniversary model of the McCarty guitar this year with US pickups in there for a bit of a premium around $2200 but if you don't get that and were planning on getting the basic S2 McCarty guitar (single or double cut versions) they both come with the 58/15 LT S import pickups in case that helps you make your mind up. So the main difference is US vs. Indonesian made and the body carve. I think the hardware is mostly the same too. Of course the feel of the neck and the how the different body carves may make the guitars feel different to play will likely determine whether you prefer one over the other and then it's a question of value for money if that is a consideration for you. Good luck in making your choice and thanks for the video.
As a person that has owned almost every core model, a few Private Stocks, and some wood library models, over the past 25 years, I must admit my 4 SE Silver Skys, my McCarty 594 SE single and double cuts are absolutely amazing. As a bonus, I love the stock pickups and I am not one to typically leave stock pickups in many guitars. I've never thought for a second about replacing them.
That’s a pretty good endorsement! I agree. Killer guitars at around $1k
Great video! If the S2 feels & plays better, I would go for that. I know it`s $950 VS $1950 and you could get two SE for the price of one and they are really great. However, I don’t need two SE just to have two guitars. I would also spend more just to support the Maryland factory.
There are certainly other factors to consider, but feel/playability-wise (at least for the guitars they’ve sent me), they are REALLY close. So close that it’s absolutely thrown off my decision making lol. Funny enough it might end up pushing me beyond an S2 and to a Core 594.
@@TomButwin I was about to say that :) Yes would probably save up for the core, but probably go for used one.
I would 100% have to buy used lol
I just got my SE 594 McCarty Double Cut, on sale for $759, it's my first PRS and I'm extremely impressed. I've been a Les Paul player for 30 years, and this has really opened my eyes to how good some import guitars can be.
I can’t speak to their early SE stuff, but they’ve come out with some really great imports at PRS over the last 5-10 years
I would choose the S2. I own two. I picked them each up for around $1000 - $1400. It’s not going to be the case for long that you can pickup a USA made PRS for $1000. Especially now the market has cooled they are great buys.
Great video, thanks. Is the cutout location different on the S2? Do you like the way it feels when playing sitting down?
Thanks, Quinn! No, all the McCarty’s (and Les Paul’s) have that style cutout. For some reason, sitting down, I don’t like it as much as a Strat/Silver Sky/acoustic. Just sits weird. Standing, they are great though. It’s absolutely not a deal-breaker, just something I noticed.
I'll say this. I have been playing the SE line on and off for almost 20 years. I just purchased the most recent Custom 24 in black gold and in terms of quality, fit, and finish... I've never had better in the price range. I have a Custom 24 Floyd from last year and it's close, but this new line of SE's is stellar. With their recent special pricing, it's unbeatable! I just bought this exact McCarty model and expect nothing less in quality. Their boys at the Cort factory have brought their A Game and are crushing it.
Couldn’t agree more. These guitars are really good.
I just purchased this exact prs, after owning a 2013 tremonti SE. I figured it just turned 10 years old so i would try something new. And oh my god, the build quality and pickups on the new SE are noticably better
They've really been knocking it out of the park with the SEs
Not really. The prices have been creeping up so the S2 line is starting to be at that 2k level. It seems to me that the “consumer” price point (not pro or collector) is from $600-maybe $1,500.
So, are you thinking the S2 isn’t relevant or do you think there’s still a market for it?
@@TomButwin not exactly. The price of an s2 is probably spot on. Just form looking at several guitar makers (imported of course) have the prices between that $600-$1,500 range. Just 10 years ago the S2s were topping at $1,300. there will be a market for the s2 line and trust ill buy a guitar for $2k rather than $4k, and that really is the true argument.
The shop I take lessons at is a large PRS retailer and I often hang around after my lesson and noodle around on the guitars. The se 594 is superior to most of the S2 line. So easy to play and is incredibly resonant. I’m buying a blue quilted top version. Drop dead gorgeous and I won’t be afraid to scratch it.
Last sentence is key! I know you’ve got a shop, but consider my affiliate links if you get it online! Appreciate the support.
I have read and heard quite a number of times that PRS SE series guitars are "toys", compared to their higher level ones. And a professional musician I hold in high esteem told me that they lack the “consistency” of their U.S.-made sisters. Before I bought an SE 594 Double Cut I went around various stores, going to try Core and S2 also in A/B comparisons. But, it may be that I am a raw amateur, but I could not hear such differences that I would choose to spend more on something that to me is more esoteric than real.
Owned 2 cores. Took a chance and got a new SE custom 22 on a store blowout and it’s so good, the sound the feel, the looks.
Congrats!
Dude I bought that 594 single cutaway and I can't find a thing wrong with it. When you say the neck and pickups have that vintage feel and sound you are very right.... Go ahead and buy it you'll be glad you did ✌️✌️
Awesome! They are great instruments, for sure.
I think it's an S2 wounder, but not a total killer by design. The Maryland plant has quite a backlog and my guess is their slimmest profit margin is on the S2s. The SE version takes a lot of pressure off the Maryland plant while preserving or even increasing sales and profits. It's a smart move from a business perspective. Why sacrifice sales just because the Maryland factory can't keep up with demand? To most prospective buyers the SE is a better looking guitar with the same hardware for half the price. If the Maryland plant should catch up and they want to sell more of the S2 version, all they have to do is toss core pickups in them and the S2s "value" is restored. They'll up the price to compensate of course, after conditioning you to pay $2200 for an S2 "special edition" to test the market. It's all pretty much SOP for Paul and his marketing team. You can hardly blame them, it's a fiercely competitive industry and they're making competitive moves :)
Solid assessment.
I thought the SE 594 would be the right guitar for me and my smaller hands, but noticed the reviews that I watched the reviewer did not play the upper frets. So I made my way to a guitar center to get one in my hands. Sure enough the upper frets are really so close together that they are difficult to use.
Glad you went to play one before buying one. That's the best way to do it.
It seems like PRS is creeping in the same direction as Fender in creating too many different lines at different price points.
They haven’t gone FJM (Fender Just Multiplies Models) yet, but the options are growing.
If I get SE guitar and put a core pickup, would it just sound as good as core or will it still be different?
I think it’d be pretty close with the Core pickups. Not exactly the same, but certainly very good. The SE pickups are also really good, just different.
I have the same 594 SE as what you reviewed, and I agree. It’s amazing. I have always been down on S2 guitars because it seems like they’re SE made in the USA. Nothing really differentiates them but the logo on the headstock for twice the price. I’m less sold on the carve differences mattering but even then I prefer the rounded one.
You miss many points on the benefits of S2 over SE...better woods/better frets/better fret job/better finish/better resale/better body shape/better tuners/better neck size/better setup{10s)/better feel/better wieght and comfort/ gold script USA logo and serial#. Too many online posts misinform student edition owners to think they have more than what they bought.
S2 should still be around, but they have to make them looks expensive. S2 looks so damn cheap.
I wouldn’t say they look “cheap,” but they absolutely have a more utility-ish look to them…which I guess is their intended purpose? It’s that top carve that really changes it.
Your hair is the star of this video. Damn im jealous!
😂
I’m probably at some point get me an S2 I love my SE so much but I do still love my strat and teles, all wonderful guitars!
The new S2's have the Core line/US pickups, which is awesome!
Yeah, I found that out a couple weeks ago, that was a long time coming!
I still think the S2s are much more nicely appointed. The woods are much better, the finish is noticeably thinner, and they're going to start putting PRS USA pickups in them.
I’ll take the S2 every time for the nitro finish and to support American manufacturing jobs. The SE’s are great guitars though.
I think they could reduce production on the S2 line, but that may lead to a price increase on the SE line
It could! I truly don't think the S2 is going anywhere anytime soon, but I do have to say, if you can get over the fact that the SE's aren't made in Maryland, there's a very good argument to be made that it's diminishing returns to go to an S2 in most cases. Everyone's needs/wants/desires are different, though.
Does anyone know if the S2 thinline (NOT SE) can support a tremolo bar?
You’d have to do some serious modifications, if the body is thick enough. 😬 I’m not at all informed on stuff like that, though.
3:44 -> Are we getting a song out of this by any chance?
It’s in the works😏
@@TomButwin Yes!
im heading to the states in June and gonna buy the SE then the Core pickups for sure, the cost is still lower than the s2 and gives me some cash for some extra add ons or pedals
Excellent plan! Enjoy and safe travels.
The Core model has a true AAA figured top rather than the laminated SE top, and higher quality pickups, other than that the SE sounds so close that it makes sense to buy it. I have a SE model and it's off the charts, I will buy the Core because I do want the top of the line that holds it's value.
Couldn’t agree more!
The SE & S2 difference for me is - The S2 models are made with a one piece body, two piece cap ( if applicable) and a 3 piece (not counting wings on head stock) neck from one piece of wood. While the SE line is made with a 3 piece body, any cap is covered with venire and a 5 piece neck from 3 pieces of wood glued together. The SE line is a bunch of scrap wood glued together and the S2's are solid instruments (pun intended). If you upgrade a SE model, the parts put into it will out value the wood. Upgrade a S2 model the parts put into it will add value to the instrument.
The SE line in PRS is like the Epiphone to Gibson, The Mexican Strat to the U.S. Strat. SE's are the perfect model to start with but don't dump a bunch of money into them. wait until you get an S2.
Own both. I prefer the S2. Currently working on selling the SE.
Doesn’t seem to be much want for the SE in the used market. Selling it cheap too. Go figure.
They sell so cheap new that I can’t imagine the used market is good for them. That’s a definite negative, for sure. S2s are still awesome!
I’d still rather have a USA made one even if close. That writing on the back of the headstock is so ugly on the SE as well.
I would pay for the S2, but I can't stand the hard carve shape on the body. I have an SE on pre-order, but sadly it's not expected to ship til mid-April...
That hard carve is definitely different. If I wasn't comparing it to the Core 594 top carve, the S2 wouldn't be so jarring. I honestly really enjoyed the SE, so I think it'll be worth the wait for you. Did you get a double cut or single?
@@TomButwin Yeah, I played a Core and S2 back-to-back, so it was very evident. I ordered the SE double cut.
@@ryanpjolley double cut is the way to go.
Are you contented on the stock pick ups of the mcarthy se?
@@mjwontstop I didn’t end up keeping it. The fit and finish wasn’t up to par.
Oh and only the anniversary s2 has different pickups.
While both the SE and S2 have the 85/15 “S” pickups, there are some wiring/manufacturing differences, I’m fairly certain. I’ll double check with them! And yes, the S2 10th Anniversary has the US-made, Core model pickups.
@@TomButwin oh, I didnt realize that! Looks like I’ll be doing more research.
Buy all 3.
Now we’re talkin’
I think the SE offers substantially more value for the money than the S2, and quality-wise, the SE is as good as or very close to the S2. Did you end up buying either of them?
Not yet, but my decision has been made more difficult by the fact that the S2s now have Core pickups.
@@TomButwin I could see where that would make the decision more difficult, But couldn't you could swap in a set of the core pups on the SE and still be way ahead on $$$. The S2 retails for $2349 on Sweetwater. That's a hefty price tag compared to $899 for the SE. The tuners may be better on the S2, although the consensus is that the ones on the SE are still rock solid. The S2 does have the nitrocellulose finish, which is a definite plus, but all in all, I guess the question is whether the S2 is worth over $1500 more than the SE?
Currently, the only s2 594 that is worth buying is the Thinline. The only purchasing that makes sense
I’ve had an s2 singlecut several years ago. Still the best guitar I played ever. A few weeks ago after watching these videos on RUclips, I decided to purchase the SE McCarty, and it was a disaster. The guitar feels cheap: finish problems, cheap plastic, cheap knobs, cheap tuners. Muffled unbalanced sound. I returned it back to the shop with no regrets.
So, guys, don’t believe these videos, where bloggers will sell you an SE saying, that it’s as good as an US made guitar. It’s just not true.
Another sad thing about that is that SE became really overpriced. Here in Europe the new McCarty SE costs almost 1200 EUR. In my opinion, fair price is maximum 600.
Aw man, that sucks you had that experience. PRS doesn’t pay me and I give my honest reactions and opinions on the guitars. I legitimately enjoyed this one and had a very good experience and was impressed. Sorry to hear your experience wasn’t the same.
I have both prefer the sound of the SE but my s2 does feel significantly better.
PRS is brilliant, they are making affordable copies of their high end guitars with superior quality than Gibson Guitars do.
No such thing In my book as a guitar that doesn't get played out. I wouldn't pay 2-6g for a guitar and not play it out.. That being said I'm really contemplating this very guitar.... Ughhh decisions decisions lol Love it
Guitars should be played! I agree.
I play a 408 and a CE24 in my band, and wanted a lower output Singlecut in the mix, so I picked up a McCarty SE Singlecut 594, and it can hang with my CE. It plays as good. Sounds different, but still excellent.
The 408 is in a class of its own, but it was also 4x the price…
The nitro finish on S2 is stunning, but i can't see no other reason to spend twice to money of a SE
The SEs really are that good lately. Check out the SE DGT video I just dropped. I (as well as many/most) think it’s the best SE there is.
just bought a 594 SE singlecut in vintage burst...what a great guitar....can't really fault it.....the fret ends need a bit of attention, but that's it.....BUT...my 15 year old prs SE singlecut with rosewood fretboard and 2 dragon II pickups is the better guitar...plays better and sounds better.....just saying....
The S2 seems obsolete. SE andCore are the best lines. It’s crazy that S2’s are priced at what core models used to be priced at. I would get an SE and upgrade the lockings tuners and pickups if you aren’t happy with the SE pickups.but SE pickups are really good these days. The SE are finally brilliant guitars in the last few years and no longer budget guitars.
Haven't found any for under 1K
$949! www.zzounds.com/a--3980673/item--PRSSEMC594
For me the McCarty 594 SE sounds and looks better than the S2!
It’s definitely got a different look! The S2 is much more “utility” looking to me, but pictures really don’t do it justice. It’s much more elegant in person.
Looks nice, might feel nice. Tones are uninspiring.
The S2 is made by Americans with strict quality control and high quality materials. Paul Reed Smith is a great visionary
Those SE’s are pretty incredible, though. And, they come to the Maryland factory for final inspection before heading out to dealers.
@@TomButwin that's a greay point. In the end i don't think you can get a bad Paul Reed Smith
I named my kid S.E. McCarty
The S2 line never made sense to me. It’s not worth double the price of the SE models in my mind. And the carve of the S2 is 🤮 to me. Makes it look like an even cheaper version of the SE.
I will say, the carve grew on me in person, but it is significantly different than the SE and Core tops.
HH silver sky :)
Honestly, I’d kind of dig that.
PRS are nice but I will stick with 🇺🇸 Fender
Valid!
Each person has that guitar feel and sound that they want the most. I’m pretty new to this so I’m trying to find ‘that’ guitar that does it for me
Nothing wrong with a Fender! We likely wouldn't be talking about PRS if it weren't for Gibson/Fender/McCarty.
You'll know when you know! Guitars don't have to be expensive to be "the one," that's for sure. Happy to help answer any questions you might have as well.
@@TomButwin yeah, definitely was hoping ‘the one’ would be not too expensive. I just don’t know what I’m looking for…. So many options
Get out there and play as many as you can!
Buy a Les Paul Axcess
Aren’t those like $10k?
@@TomButwin
Aroumd half 10k Custom Shop
LP Modern +- 2500
My USA S2 with upgrades totally rocks. SE does NOT yield same quality.. All PRS pickups and electronics are sterile in my books...but a USA PRS with SD pickups is a real player that I love.
Hm, I’ve had good experiences with the SS single coils and also the Core humbuckers (love those, actually). As far as S2 and SE pickups, they’re by no means “bad,” but they are definitely the weak point of those guitars. I’d still love to try one with SDs though! No doubt it’d be great.