My 594 is the highest quality guitar I own, but I didn’t think the pickups worked well for worship. There was extended low and high end that didn’t sit well in a mix. I changed the pickups to Seymour Duncan 59s and it was a match made in heaven. The 594 is now my main worship guitar. I tried the 59s in several guitars and wasn’t crazy about them, but they really came to life in the 594. One worship set was all it took.
While I was researching, PRS had confirmed that the S2 pickups are better quality than the SE pickups however they’re both made overseas. The S2, while built in USA, has all electronics from abroad.. Doesn’t make it bad… but buyers should know. It’s nowhere mentioned in their catalogue therefore one has to assume they prefer you don’t know.
The differences while apparent are subtle at best. While I thought the Core had more mid range clarity and overall sounded better to my ears the amount better was hardly $2000 better. The S2 still sounded amazing and it would be difficult to really hear any differences in a full band mix. Great video!!
There is a bigger difference beyond tone and looks for me. Clearly the Core is much nicer and sounds better. Electronics will solve 90% of that though... To me it is more about owning something that is elegant and finely crafted, the Core is something I would pass to my children and become an heirloom. The S2s are a compromise in nearly every way. Something I would gig the life out of, mod, and trade in for a new model when I wore the frets out. The Cores are lifetime instruments, I would upgrade frets as needed. 50 years from now, the core will be highly sought after.
Kills me that it's in fractal and not a tube amp. S2 sounds and looks great. I wouldn't feel bad about replacing the pickups in it while I would doing that in a core for some reason.
what if I buy an S2 and change a pickups to core model pickups, will the sound be the same as the core model or better than the S2 stock pickups? To me the pickups would make a big different for the sound imo.
The fact that the two guitars, years apart in production, using roughly similarly wound pickups, same bridge and saddles at identical amp settings, sound marginally different, is a testament to what really counts when it comes to the sound of guitar.
If you can't tell the difference, then don't pay the difference. The same thing could be said for the S2 vs the SE lines, or SE vs a $200 Harley Benton. If you're unable to appreciate the difference in quality and craftsmanship, then save your money until you can :)
@@ShamanicSavant There is no difference in the quality and craftsmanship between these two guitars, only a difference in design choices. The pickups maybe are the only slight exception here, and they don't amount to more than 10% of the price.
You can EQ the tonal range, but there isn't much you can do to improve articulation. Aside from consistency, the biggest thing the 58/15LTs have over the SE pickups in the S2 is they're MUCH more articulate... better note separation and clarity :)
I have an S2 594. I agree that the pickups lack a bit of clarity compared to the core model, but tweaking the amp knobs or playing through a brighter amp will give you all the clarity that you need or want. The coil splits really do sound like great single coils and not tapped humbuckers. Unfortunately, they use cheap electronics on the S2. I had to replace both volume pots right out of the box because they were scratchy and cutting out. I also replaced the sloppy pickup selector switch with a nice Switchcraft that I already had. Fortunately, the seller sent me 2 new PRS pots and it's working great, though I would have preferred to be playing my brand-new guitar rather than working on it. The last thing for me is that the neck finish was a bit sticky so I GENTLY sanded it with fine grit sandpaper and scotch brite and it's nice and smooth feeling now. In spite of some issues it has turned out to be a great guitar, although for $1700 I should not have had to do anything to it.
I had to do a lot of work on my S2 right after i bought it. Very disappointing. Worst problem was the fret end dressing. The E strings roll right off the fretboard I don't fret them perfectly perpendicularly.... Glad I didn't have to spend more to find out PRS is nothing but marketing BS
@@cironicholas526 It comes down to materials and time allowed per guitar. The notion that only an American can make a quality product, is outdated, yet still clung to by many. The truth is, if you took the Core materials and procedures to any far east factory, you'd have a full Core model, but at an S2 price. Of course, that's never going to happen.
@@cironicholas526 Paul is the consummate bullshitter to be sure, but the core line is his bread and butter that gets all the attention to detail. If it weren't for the core line, nobody would even be interested in PRS. So he uses the excellent core line to sell a crapload of not so excellent SE and S2 lines. Good marketing leads people to believe they're getting core quality just because it carries the PRS name. Cheap guitars are just that... cheap :)
All of these YT guitar tone comparisons ought to come with a disclaimer. CZcams compresses the crap out of ALL audio down to a medium quality mp3. The compression algorithm also isn't optimized for guitars, making it difficult to determine the real tonal difference between them. How can you make a legitimate tone comparison when CZcams's compression filters out half the tones before we even hear them?
I like the way the S2 sounds. Just like the OP says. The S2 sounds warmer and rounder. The S2 is my next guitar I have already made that decision. I am just stuck on what color to get? They are all good. The only things I do not like about the S2 is the low buck Kluson style tuners and the black nut breaking up the bound look. Aesthetics I know. The rest of that S2 is amazing.
I have a core McCarty 594 with p90s. It’s an absolute beast. I love mine to pieces. Truth be told, I almost bought the S2, but the deal I got on mine was too good, and I prefer P90s. After time with the S2 however, I’d happily play one at gigs. They are fantastic.
Any guitar above 1500$ will never have a noticeble difference in sound than a mid range price guitar. The difference is in materials and human work put in. So the question is if you are willing to pay the price for the "quality" o garantee that your guitar is made from the "best" materials and from the "most capable" people. Most of us will say no, but then again many think that an expensive guitar sounds better. I had an epiphone guitar that sounded better than the gibson model that cost twice. Also I had a yamaha pacifica 112 that sounded better than every squier I played. But yeah sound is pretty subjective in the end.
I can agree to some degree with your first assessment of any guitar above $1500 will never have a noticeable difference. But i respectfully disagree because I think that we just cant hear the difference. We don't have a sense of perfect pitch nor have we played guitars in the highest of high levels. I have never played Marsden's "The Beast" before but I can tell you there something in the guitar that he hears that others just can't. It is the same situation with wine and whiskey. Someone can tell you that they taste blueberry cotton candy with a butterscotch finish. I have no clue what they are talking about but just because I can't hear the $10,000 difference doesn't mean it's not there. But that is why i bought a mexi strat instead of the american...because i'm stupid and can't tell a difference. Not saying you are stupid btw! cheers!
@@collinaitcheson728 pretty interesting answer. I would just say that there’s a difference between perfect pitch and tonal difference. What we are talking here is not the pitch or intonation which can be accurately checked but tone which is subjective. What guitar sounds “better”? One with a humbucker or single coils? This wood or that? Any difference in these options won’t justify more than 1k dollars although someone might sell you an “exotic grade AAA wood” or the “king’s invisible cape pickup” and many people will buy it thinking that they can “hear” a difference just as no one wanted to point out that the king was naked in the story.
They both sound great. If you can fit the bill for the core go right ahead. If your budget only allows you the S2...there you go. I have a S2 custom 24 and it does the job for what we do at church. Blessings....
Great comparison! I have the S2 McCarty 594 in Whale Blue and have been considering changing out the pickups for Seymour Duncan Seth Lovers because I love lower power, unpotted pickups. I don't play much high-gain music and no longer stand in front of a big amp so that's not an issue. Thanks for the video!
Hey, I can answer some of these! The S2 and Core 594 share the same tuners, bridge, and tailpiece. The Core has a bone nut and the S2 uses the same PRS nut that we use across both the Core and S2 line. The electronics in the S2 aren’t the same as the Core and the pickups are indeed made elsewhere to PRS specs. The finish is currently the same on both lines. The 2017 you have was before the McCarty line got vintage style tuners which is why they still have the Phase III.
MicahChaney The vintage tuners are a showstopper for me. I was prepped to buy a Core until that change was made.... I get the “vibe” aspect, but make them locking (like the Silver Sky).
Core pickups are better but you can upgrade the S2 for like $300 or less. I have an S2 Starla and Vela and they are both very good guitars that feel great and are incredibly stable. S2 pickups and electronics come pre-wired from G&B pickups in Korea. Everything is spec'd and approved by PRS. McCarty's all receive a bone nut, no locking tuners. The S2's get the same nut as the Core line. The big price difference is hand finish work like sanding on the violin carve.
Let's face it - a $99 Squier Bullet Strat would sound good played through an Axe FX III. 😉 That said, when I closed my eyes I found that sometimes I actually preferred the sound of the S2. And I definitely like the S2 finish better. I think I'd take it and pocket the $2000.
Hey Brian, good video brother! Question for you? I’m just about to receive a PRS S2 McCarty 10th anniversary with American electronics and the American 15/58 Pups. In your opinion, from doing the video, do you think that the American pickups, identical to the core series, would make the guitars almost in discernible tone wise? Thanks!
Recently had an opportunity to play both of these back to back. They both sound amazing but I haven’t stopped thinking about the core.... My wallet is in trouble
I've had an se and ce. I now have neither and got a core model 594 10 top. It's worth every penny to me. The ce is fantastic but the 594 is the nicest instrument I've ever touched.
@@marcustan4404 Then you'd have 2 overpriced run of the mill guitars instead of one unique work of art. You could buy 10 Harley Bentons for the price of the S2 :)
I own PRS guitars at every level. The trick is to find the guitars that speak to you. Just because it’s not worth the extra money to you doesn’t mean it won’t be to someone else’s hearing. “ Judge not, lest ye be judged.”
I think think this is a spot on review. I own a starla s2 and have the same thoughts compared to the core model. A little “warmer” or “dull” depending on who you are is very accurate.
Prefer the Core by a slim margin, but I think you could definitely tweak the AxeFx III to get them even closer. In the end I don’t think the Core is worth $2k more from a tonal perspective, it would have to come down to how it plays and feels.
They sound good. Slightly different, but both sound good. I'd play either and at that price difference I would be totally happy with the S2. The differences wouldn't be worth the price difference to me personally, though the carve on the CORE looks sweet!
Love the blue sparkle, have a blue sparkle Duesenberg Starplayer TV and it’s awesome. Got a few very traditional SBs, nothing wrong with having a little bling in the posse!
Put headphones on and you can hear the difference. Is it $2000 worth? I don’t think so. I think PRS has gotten way to out there on their guitar prices. That piezo guitar they sent all the CZcams channels is $1799 and made in Asia. That’s insane! I always wanted a Tremonti but it’s a down payment on a car. I’m fine with a Les Paul Traditional Honey Burst with 57 pickups. The sustain is incredible.
The Core model pick-ups are a bit more open-sounding but as others said it's pretty subtle. I would assume that the core modules have higher grade tops than the S2 as well. With out putting each one of them in my hand side by side who know if there is a feel difference. Having said that you could always get an S2 and replace the pickups with the core model pickups and still save $1500.
Core is definitely brighter and more open sounding and the S2 more focused. Guessing it’s the low turn USA pickups on the Core. The S2 would sound brilliant with Suhr Thornbuckers I bet, low output PAF neck with hotter warmer bridge...
That was an enjoyable and excellent review,you need to do more my friend,I preferred the S2 the lovely grained top,I couldn't hear the difference between the two,these beauties are definite 'Gibson Killers'.
Definitely is not $2000 difference worth. They sound different, S2 less clear, but with a gentle high-mids boost on the S2 you can't tell the difference. In a mix, it would be indistinguishable. Both are remarkable top guitars for sure.
The clean sounds sounded the most different to me. Seemed like the Core had more clarity and sounded a little more three dimensional. In the lead tone comparison, it sounded like the reverb was little thicker or being pushed a little harder, so i'm wondering if the bridge pickup in the Core has a higher output level than the S2.
Great comparison! The side by side was very well done, I wish more would do it that way. I heard pretty much exactly what you described in the tonal differences. In a mix you probably couldn't tell which is which unless your Paul Reed Smith. :D My take on the two is, if you can comfortably afford the Core, buy it. If not, buy the S2. If you don't like the S2 sound, swap out the pickups. You only have half the money invested so go for it. You can always put it back. I have a '17 594 in whale blue... Blue IS my favorite color, so you can guess which side of the "what do you think of this color" question! I own a dozen guitars, except for the weight (My shoulders are giving out), it is my favorite!
I have a 2017 594 WL in Jade Green. It has a really special top, kind of in between quilt and flame, a solid rosewood neck, green paua birds, AAA cocobolo FB, SA Ribbon Mahogany body, and Jade Green is normally a PS only color. It's an heirloom quality instrument that plays as good as it looks :)
I owned a Custom 24-08. It felt great but for that price there’s a big diminishing return. I ended up selling it. Wouldn’t mind the S2. I’m not big on super expensive guitars. Not into overseas guitars either. I like a middle ground. Like the USA Gibson Faded Cherry models. The top of the line I like is the Gibson Les Paul Standard/Traditional. I don’t need super fancy.
I have a Core C24 Piezo that is phenomenal for worship with the acoustic settings then a Tremonti. I want a 594 SC as well but probably can't swing another core so I have been looking at the S2. This was VERY helpful and I appreciate you taking the time to do it (just like your Helix patches that save me a ton of time!)
I have the red version of that solid blue core 594. I’ve been trying my best to find the exact name for the red color. Also, I can’t find an image of a red one anywhere. It’s a metallic red. Or red sparkle??? Any help? It’s a 2017.
@@MDCSYD Im not sure what that is. But PRS contacted me with the specs after giving them the serial number. It was custom ordered by Righteous Guitars near Atlanta as a One Of solid paint for the 594. It is Metallic Red on a maple top.
The neck finish and the frets are finished differently for sure, aside from the electronics and pickups etc. There is a considerable amount more work in finishing. S2 are great guitars though. And if you have any skills you can upgrade the parts and finish the neck and frets. Or get someone to do that if you aren't confident. I'd look at both core and s2 used before deciding. Seen really nice core guitars in excellent condition for 14-1900. And S2 for around 800-1000 PRS pickups are nice but not my choice so I'd probably change them anyway. Really stuck on arcane and gravelin pickups.
Même si je n'ai que des notions d'anglais la vidéo est très bien faite pour que l'on comprenne l'essentiel. 2000$ c'est beaucoup et la vidéo permet de se faire une idée avant d'acheter car là ou j'habite il n'y a pas de possibilité d'essayer des PRS. Pour moi je préfère le son plus rond et plus chaleureux de la S2. Merci pour ce comparatif.
True, but what you get overall can't be. The S2 594 is more overpriced by comparison when you consider all aspects. People buying a core model are looking for more than just a playable guitar. These kinds of opinions are driven more by economic feasibilty than practicality. Most people tend to buy the best they can afford :)
The s2 has import electronics and pickups. And a few other small differences. I think the tuners are different also. But afaik the bridges and tailpieces are the same.
Not really, in terms of actual value. The S2 594 is pretty spendy for an S2, and resale on S2s sucks. A used S2 is the way to go if you're trying to be frugal :)
When above a certain price range, the difference between an expensive guitars and more expensive guitars will become exponentially small. Sometimes you're paying for double the money for an extra 1%, does it worth it tho? I guess as long as you like it, it's worth every penny.
The thing is tho, for what you get the S2 is more overpriced than the core model. You can find S2 Standards for 800 bucks brand new and the resale value is comparitively worse than the SE line :)
Very subtle indeed and I had to put on headphones to hear it. This was a great explanation of the two models that PRS needs to improve on their website. I'd have liked to have heard a less effected lead tone but I get it that the worship services players are not looking for a searing blues lead tone... at least I don't think they are. The last time I went to any church service it was just old bearded men with scrolls, choir and someone's aunt playing a Wurlitzer. 😜 Thanks for posting this short review! I know how much work and time it takes to do all this. 🙏🏻
Thanks for the comparison, Brian. I prefer the clarity and brightness of the Core model. But, I agree - they're so close, especially with effects on. I'm not sure I could tell the difference in a mix.
@@ark8tct I think buying an SE or S2 and changing the pickups (in time) is not a bad idea. 1 month ago I finally received my guitar, I choose an SE model (PRS SE custom 24 in Charcoal Burst) because it was way cheaper than a S2 or a Core model. So far this guitar is really nice, looks good (personal opinion) and plays great. Maybe one day I'll upgrade the pickups if I find the money, but to stay with these pickups is not a problem. The only thing I don't really like with my guitar is the push/pull knob to split the coils, it is not really natural to split the pickups that way when you're playing, I would have prefered a ''switch'' selector (like the pickups selector on Les Paul style guitats). But I didn't find any other problem with the guitar. edit : if you finally pull the trigger on a PRS, please let me now about your experience , I would love to have your feedbacks too
The best budget PRS ever made is the PRS se Chris Robertson. With the p90 humbucker combo it's very bright and clear sounding. I would say it sounds as good as any high end guitar I've played...ever...
I would to say out the 2 guitars, I do like the s2 over the core guitar because i think you are right it has more warmer pick ups i guess it come down to how much money you want to spent
Although not mentioned, I believe the S2 has a scarfed joint neck which adds to the discounted price. Apologies if you mentioned and I missed. Blessings. Otherwise, excellent review. Would also like to hear comparison in a clean tube amp. 🙂
I'm the video the core sounds significantly better in every way. But I'm wondering if you change the bass, treble, and mid settings on both if they would sound more similar. I find that some guitars inherently have more bass or more treble, etc. than others and you need to adjust this accordingly. But sometimes no matter what you do the guitars just don't sound the same... one shines over the other...
Man, PRS just makes a beautiful sounding, playing, and looking guitar. You really can't go wrong with any model in any price range, you will indeed get what you pay for. Great video as always Brian, God bless you brother!
@11:00 - I don't dislike the colour - but I'm not buying a PRS to get sparkly blue. I'm not paying that much money to pass up some of those incredible burst designs in the various colours available.
Great guitars. I can hear the difference in the the core model and a PRS core guitar is on my guitar bucket list, LOL. Sidebar... Was the final lead riff you played from "Hosanna" by Hillsong?
Where something is made has less importance for me now as a guitar player. The S2 may be made in the USA, however the pickups which make a huge difference in tone are not! So some of the components are imported. There is significant more clarity in the core model. And yes, warm does not necessarily make a pickup better.
I like the core sometimes and the S2 sometimes during the clean. I like the core more for the overdriven rhythm but like the S2 more for the lead tones. I agree core had more top end but I like the warmer lead tone from the S2. I am a home hobbyist so I could see maybe springing for an S2 but doubt I would ever drop +$2,000 for the core as tone was very close. I have an S2 standard single cut and it is my favorite guitar even about a 1997 Heritage H535.
The difference in clarity would be a lot more noticeable in a live comparison. With CZcams's audio compression at about 1/6th the quality of a CD, any perceived differences are likely a placebo effect. If you're hearing that thru your monitor, phone, or cheap PC speakers it's even worse. YT's BEST audio quality is around 220kb/s... about even with medium quality mp3s but not optimized for music. While fun when you're shopping for a new guitar, in a practical/technical sense YT tone comparisons are worthless. People hear what they want to hear, and don't think their wallet doesn't affect that :)
I have an SE and the S2 sounds similar, a little less defined and muddier than the Core pups. Core pups sound so much more precise. I'd still buy an S2 for the wood and brass though, can always swap pups. The metallic blue is nice for sure, but the thing about PRS Core is the beautiful wood grain and solid colors remove that identity.
I picked up a PRS SE Tremonti for $250 in the UK. It's a great guitar, and since i will never spend more than 500 for a guitar, on PRINCIPLE! , it will just have to do.
I have 3 PRS Core guitars (a standard McCarty, a Smokeburst (Lacquer) McCarty and a Sunburst (lacquer) 245. I bought an S2 594 Thinline and liked it but wound up selling it. I liked the lightness and thought it was well built but was not a fan of the pickups and lack of a HSC. Aesthetically I didn’t like the plastic birds or bevel cut body. Rather than spend $1700 on an S2 (too much IMO) I would suggest getting a used McCarty for the same price; you’ll be getting a better guitar and won’t suffer any depreciation.
To my ear, the core is much brighter and louder than the s2. But for the s2, i love how compress the guitar sounds. Anyways, both are awesome guitars. And good job for the review! God bless! When will your strat coming? 🤤🤣♥️♥️♥️🎸
Wow I like the warm tone of the s2 much better. I tried come of the high end PRS whn I played pro never liked the tooth pick treble of the prs. The s2 sounds much better like the gibson warm sound.
The core model has a brighter and more open tonality which I preferred, but they're not worlds apart. I have a sneaking suspicion that I'd be claiming that the core model was warmer and more vintage sounding if the audio tracks were switched.
Contrary to the note at the top left concerning the tuners, the 2020 model does not come with the Phase III tuners. For 2020 they come with vintage style non-locking tuners, both the core and the S2.
@@worshiptutorials Actually I think they changed it for the 2019 model year. They're kind of cheap Kluson knockoffs, the Phase IIIs are WAY nicer in both form and function. I've got a 2017 594 Wood Library and it's a phenomenal guitar :)
PRS guitars are starting to become much more popular with Sunday morning guys. Including me. The silver sky and the 594 cover like 90 percent of what I would ever need. They need a tele. I still love my fenders and reverends but the prs is most played at this point. (Yeah. I have ditched my gibsons. Just don’t work for me. I understand the love but the 594 just hits better with me )
The neck on the S2 is functionally a 3 piece neck, the neck on the core is functionally a 1 piece. (The little wings on the headstock are another 2 pieces that I'm not counting) Theoretically the 1 piece neck has better sustain, but in practice the 3 piece is cheaper to make.
WHAT TO MY EARS, THE S2 SOUNDS LIKE IT HAS A BLANKET OVER THE PICKUPS WHILE CORE SOUNDS LIKE THERES LOT MORE BREATHING ROOM. DIDN'T EXPECT THIS SINCE S2 REPUTATION WAS SO GOOD.
My 594 is the highest quality guitar I own, but I didn’t think the pickups worked well for worship. There was extended low and high end that didn’t sit well in a mix. I changed the pickups to Seymour Duncan 59s and it was a match made in heaven. The 594 is now my main worship guitar. I tried the 59s in several guitars and wasn’t crazy about them, but they really came to life in the 594. One worship set was all it took.
Hi Desi, is your 594 a Core model? Just curious as I have an S2 version.
Jerry McKenzie Core.
Lol imagine pulling LTs for any SDs 🤮
@@thenumber1bobo Lol imagine being a pretentious and judgmental snob just because someone has a different preference than you 🤮
@@thenumber1bobo Agreed, it's like upgrading your Ferrari with Honda parts :)
While I was researching, PRS had confirmed that the S2 pickups are better quality than the SE pickups however they’re both made overseas. The S2, while built in USA, has all electronics from abroad.. Doesn’t make it bad… but buyers should know. It’s nowhere mentioned in their catalogue therefore one has to assume they prefer you don’t know.
Yeah, S2 is a good modding platform. USA made bones, which is the important. Cores you don't touch haha.
Thank you!!!
The differences while apparent are subtle at best. While I thought the Core had more mid range clarity and overall sounded better to my ears the amount better was hardly $2000 better. The S2 still sounded amazing and it would be difficult to really hear any differences in a full band mix. Great video!!
Get both birds in hand and the differences aren't so subtle :)
@@ShamanicSavant maybe, but is the core $2000 better? I think not. Brian even said they both feel very similar to play.
There is a bigger difference beyond tone and looks for me. Clearly the Core is much nicer and sounds better. Electronics will solve 90% of that though... To me it is more about owning something that is elegant and finely crafted, the Core is something I would pass to my children and become an heirloom. The S2s are a compromise in nearly every way. Something I would gig the life out of, mod, and trade in for a new model when I wore the frets out. The Cores are lifetime instruments, I would upgrade frets as needed. 50 years from now, the core will be highly sought after.
Kills me that it's in fractal and not a tube amp. S2 sounds and looks great. I wouldn't feel bad about replacing the pickups in it while I would doing that in a core for some reason.
what if I buy an S2 and change a pickups to core model pickups, will the sound be the same as the core model or better than the S2 stock pickups? To me the pickups would make a big different for the sound imo.
The fact that the two guitars, years apart in production, using roughly similarly wound pickups, same bridge and saddles at identical amp settings, sound marginally different, is a testament to what really counts when it comes to the sound of guitar.
If you can't tell the difference, then don't pay the difference. The same thing could be said for the S2 vs the SE lines, or SE vs a $200 Harley Benton. If you're unable to appreciate the difference in quality and craftsmanship, then save your money until you can :)
@@ShamanicSavant There is no difference in the quality and craftsmanship between these two guitars, only a difference in design choices. The pickups maybe are the only slight exception here, and they don't amount to more than 10% of the price.
The color for S2 is insane, what a cool, rock style color.
The tone is the key🎸🎸🎸
I think with some knob twiddling you could make them sound so close you could tell them apart. The Core has great clarity.
You can EQ the tonal range, but there isn't much you can do to improve articulation. Aside from consistency, the biggest thing the 58/15LTs have over the SE pickups in the S2 is they're MUCH more articulate... better note separation and clarity :)
I have an S2 594. I agree that the pickups lack a bit of clarity compared to the core model, but tweaking the amp knobs or playing through a brighter amp will give you all the clarity that you need or want. The coil splits really do sound like great single coils and not tapped humbuckers. Unfortunately, they use cheap electronics on the S2. I had to replace both volume pots right out of the box because they were scratchy and cutting out. I also replaced the sloppy pickup selector switch with a nice Switchcraft that I already had. Fortunately, the seller sent me 2 new PRS pots and it's working great, though I would have preferred to be playing my brand-new guitar rather than working on it. The last thing for me is that the neck finish was a bit sticky so I GENTLY sanded it with fine grit sandpaper and scotch brite and it's nice and smooth feeling now. In spite of some issues it has turned out to be a great guitar, although for $1700 I should not have had to do anything to it.
I had to do a lot of work on my S2 right after i bought it. Very disappointing. Worst problem was the fret end dressing. The E strings roll right off the fretboard I don't fret them perfectly perpendicularly.... Glad I didn't have to spend more to find out PRS is nothing but marketing BS
@@cironicholas526 It comes down to materials and time allowed per guitar.
The notion that only an American can make a quality product, is outdated, yet still clung to by many.
The truth is, if you took the Core materials and procedures to any far east factory, you'd have a full Core model, but at an S2 price.
Of course, that's never going to happen.
@@cironicholas526 Paul is the consummate bullshitter to be sure, but the core line is his bread and butter that gets all the attention to detail. If it weren't for the core line, nobody would even be interested in PRS. So he uses the excellent core line to sell a crapload of not so excellent SE and S2 lines. Good marketing leads people to believe they're getting core quality just because it carries the PRS name. Cheap guitars are just that... cheap :)
All of these YT guitar tone comparisons ought to come with a disclaimer. CZcams compresses the crap out of ALL audio down to a medium quality mp3. The compression algorithm also isn't optimized for guitars, making it difficult to determine the real tonal difference between them. How can you make a legitimate tone comparison when CZcams's compression filters out half the tones before we even hear them?
I like the way the S2 sounds. Just like the OP says. The S2 sounds warmer and rounder. The S2 is my next guitar I have already made that decision. I am just stuck on what color to get? They are all good. The only things I do not like about the S2 is the low buck Kluson style tuners and the black nut breaking up the bound look. Aesthetics I know. The rest of that S2 is amazing.
You’re broke that’s why you will be getting the s2
The consensus here seems to be if you've got the money the core sounds better, if not then the S2 sounds better. What a cowinkydink :)
I check out the Whale Blue color on s2 wow🚀
I have a core McCarty 594 with p90s. It’s an absolute beast. I love mine to pieces.
Truth be told, I almost bought the S2, but the deal I got on mine was too good, and I prefer P90s.
After time with the S2 however, I’d happily play one at gigs. They are fantastic.
P90's are great pickups,my favourites are the Seymour Duncan mini humbuckers.
Hello,
"dark blue metallic" on the Core594 is beautiful!
Yeah I can here the highs are more pronounced and harmonic. But they both sound great. I am a fan of my core model.
Any guitar above 1500$ will never have a noticeble difference in sound than a mid range price guitar. The difference is in materials and human work put in. So the question is if you are willing to pay the price for the "quality" o garantee that your guitar is made from the "best" materials and from the "most capable" people. Most of us will say no, but then again many think that an expensive guitar sounds better. I had an epiphone guitar that sounded better than the gibson model that cost twice. Also I had a yamaha pacifica 112 that sounded better than every squier I played. But yeah sound is pretty subjective in the end.
I can agree to some degree with your first assessment of any guitar above $1500 will never have a noticeable difference. But i respectfully disagree because I think that we just cant hear the difference. We don't have a sense of perfect pitch nor have we played guitars in the highest of high levels. I have never played Marsden's "The Beast" before but I can tell you there something in the guitar that he hears that others just can't. It is the same situation with wine and whiskey. Someone can tell you that they taste blueberry cotton candy with a butterscotch finish. I have no clue what they are talking about but just because I can't hear the $10,000 difference doesn't mean it's not there. But that is why i bought a mexi strat instead of the american...because i'm stupid and can't tell a difference. Not saying you are stupid btw! cheers!
@@collinaitcheson728 pretty interesting answer. I would just say that there’s a difference between perfect pitch and tonal difference. What we are talking here is not the pitch or intonation which can be accurately checked but tone which is subjective. What guitar sounds “better”? One with a humbucker or single coils? This wood or that? Any difference in these options won’t justify more than 1k dollars although someone might sell you an “exotic grade AAA wood” or the “king’s invisible cape pickup” and many people will buy it thinking that they can “hear” a difference just as no one wanted to point out that the king was naked in the story.
They both sound great. If you can fit the bill for the core go right ahead. If your budget only allows you the S2...there you go.
I have a S2 custom 24 and it does the job for what we do at church.
Blessings....
Great comparison! I have the S2 McCarty 594 in Whale Blue and have been considering changing out the pickups for Seymour Duncan Seth Lovers because I love lower power, unpotted pickups. I don't play much high-gain music and no longer stand in front of a big amp so that's not an issue. Thanks for the video!
Bare Knuckle Stormy Mondays sound amazing clean and with a bit of drive.
@@xF1revolution thanks, I sold the 594 more than a year ago
@@RickMcCargar what were u thinking!! lol
$2000 difference is not just in tone... construction method, hand building, fit/finish, materials, electronics spec, premium finishes, case, etc....
Hey, I can answer some of these!
The S2 and Core 594 share the same tuners, bridge, and tailpiece. The Core has a bone nut and the S2 uses the same PRS nut that we use across both the Core and S2 line. The electronics in the S2 aren’t the same as the Core and the pickups are indeed made elsewhere to PRS specs.
The finish is currently the same on both lines. The 2017 you have was before the McCarty line got vintage style tuners which is why they still have the Phase III.
MicahChaney The vintage tuners are a showstopper for me. I was prepped to buy a Core until that change was made.... I get the “vibe” aspect, but make them locking (like the Silver Sky).
Brian Ewald said the S2 594 is a nitro finish at last year's NAMM. Sorry if I spelled his name wrong.
Core sounded a bit brighter and more articulate? Probably pickups mainly? On balance I prefer the look of the S2. The figured top looks great.
Core pickups are better but you can upgrade the S2 for like $300 or less. I have an S2 Starla and Vela and they are both very good guitars that feel great and are incredibly stable. S2 pickups and electronics come pre-wired from G&B pickups in Korea. Everything is spec'd and approved by PRS.
McCarty's all receive a bone nut, no locking tuners. The S2's get the same nut as the Core line.
The big price difference is hand finish work like sanding on the violin carve.
Let's face it - a $99 Squier Bullet Strat would sound good played through an Axe FX III. 😉 That said, when I closed my eyes I found that sometimes I actually preferred the sound of the S2. And I definitely like the S2 finish better. I think I'd take it and pocket the $2000.
Hey Brian, good video brother! Question for you? I’m just about to receive a PRS S2 McCarty 10th anniversary with American electronics and the American 15/58 Pups. In your opinion, from doing the video, do you think that the American pickups, identical to the core series, would make the guitars almost in discernible tone wise? Thanks!
Recently had an opportunity to play both of these back to back. They both sound amazing but I haven’t stopped thinking about the core.... My wallet is in trouble
Can buy two s2 with core price
Quality over quantity bro, every time! Go the Core, bruh! I loooove that blue sparkly, violin carve stunner....I'd give my first born son for it!
I've had an se and ce. I now have neither and got a core model 594 10 top. It's worth every penny to me. The ce is fantastic but the 594 is the nicest instrument I've ever touched.
@@marcustan4404 Then you'd have 2 overpriced run of the mill guitars instead of one unique work of art. You could buy 10 Harley Bentons for the price of the S2 :)
Short answer, there is only a slight difference between the two guitars, so definitely not worth an extra $2,000 for the core model.
I own PRS guitars at every level. The trick is to find the guitars that speak to you. Just because it’s not worth the extra money to you doesn’t mean it won’t be to someone else’s hearing. “ Judge not, lest ye be judged.”
I think think this is a spot on review. I own a starla s2 and have the same thoughts compared to the core model. A little “warmer” or “dull” depending on who you are is very accurate.
Prefer the Core by a slim margin, but I think you could definitely tweak the AxeFx III to get them even closer. In the end I don’t think the Core is worth $2k more from a tonal perspective, it would have to come down to how it plays and feels.
If it were me, I would just go with the S2, put some upgraded pickups in it, and call it a day.
They sound good. Slightly different, but both sound good. I'd play either and at that price difference I would be totally happy with the S2. The differences wouldn't be worth the price difference to me personally, though the carve on the CORE looks sweet!
Are the bridges identical or does lower line America made S2 have Nashville style bridge with larger screws robbing tone ?
Love the blue sparkle, have a blue sparkle Duesenberg Starplayer TV and it’s awesome. Got a few very traditional SBs, nothing wrong with having a little bling in the posse!
Put headphones on and you can hear the difference. Is it $2000 worth? I don’t think so. I think PRS has gotten way to out there on their guitar prices. That piezo guitar they sent all the CZcams channels is $1799 and made in Asia. That’s insane! I always wanted a Tremonti but it’s a down payment on a car. I’m fine with a Les Paul Traditional Honey Burst with 57 pickups. The sustain is incredible.
That's a great guitar, I'd be fine with it too and I own a core 594 :)
Listening through my monitors the Core has a wider range with more bass, but the S2 is much more focussed. Excellent review, thanks.
One on the right sounds best over all.... but left is doing good work too. Sounds great. once effects are on its hard to tell in a live setting.
I bought the S2 and dropped in some 58/15 LT pickups. Best bang for my buck. Killer guitar
The Core model pick-ups are a bit more open-sounding but as others said it's pretty subtle. I would assume that the core modules have higher grade tops than the S2 as well. With out putting each one of them in my hand side by side who know if there is a feel difference. Having said that you could always get an S2 and replace the pickups with the core model pickups and still save $1500.
And lose most of it when you sell it to get a core :)
Core is definitely brighter and more open sounding and the S2 more focused. Guessing it’s the low turn USA pickups on the Core. The S2 would sound brilliant with Suhr Thornbuckers I bet, low output PAF neck with hotter warmer bridge...
Jarick Losey I put the Suhrs in my Harley Benton and they are perfect.
That was an enjoyable and excellent review,you need to do more my friend,I preferred the S2 the lovely grained top,I couldn't hear the difference between the two,these beauties are definite 'Gibson Killers'.
Definitely is not $2000 difference worth. They sound different, S2 less clear, but with a gentle high-mids boost on the S2 you can't tell the difference. In a mix, it would be indistinguishable. Both are remarkable top guitars for sure.
One of the most articulate reviews I have ever listened to, thank you.
Great comparison, thanks!
The clean sounds sounded the most different to me. Seemed like the Core had more clarity and sounded a little more three dimensional. In the lead tone comparison, it sounded like the reverb was little thicker or being pushed a little harder, so i'm wondering if the bridge pickup in the Core has a higher output level than the S2.
No.
It’s lower output
Great comparison! The side by side was very well done, I wish more would do it that way. I heard pretty much exactly what you described in the tonal differences. In a mix you probably couldn't tell which is which unless your Paul Reed Smith. :D My take on the two is, if you can comfortably afford the Core, buy it. If not, buy the S2. If you don't like the S2 sound, swap out the pickups. You only have half the money invested so go for it. You can always put it back.
I have a '17 594 in whale blue... Blue IS my favorite color, so you can guess which side of the "what do you think of this color" question!
I own a dozen guitars, except for the weight (My shoulders are giving out), it is my favorite!
I have a 2017 594 WL in Jade Green. It has a really special top, kind of in between quilt and flame, a solid rosewood neck, green paua birds, AAA cocobolo FB, SA Ribbon Mahogany body, and Jade Green is normally a PS only color. It's an heirloom quality instrument that plays as good as it looks :)
I owned a Custom 24-08. It felt great but for that price there’s a big diminishing return. I ended up selling it. Wouldn’t mind the S2. I’m not big on super expensive guitars. Not into overseas guitars either. I like a middle ground. Like the USA Gibson Faded Cherry models. The top of the line I like is the Gibson Les Paul Standard/Traditional. I don’t need super fancy.
I have owned both the core and the S2 and I preferred the S2.
I have a Core C24 Piezo that is phenomenal for worship with the acoustic settings then a Tremonti. I want a 594 SC as well but probably can't swing another core so I have been looking at the S2. This was VERY helpful and I appreciate you taking the time to do it (just like your Helix patches that save me a ton of time!)
Excellent review!
I have the red version of that solid blue core 594. I’ve been trying my best to find the exact name for the red color. Also, I can’t find an image of a red one anywhere. It’s a metallic red. Or red sparkle??? Any help? It’s a 2017.
What’s the MODCAT number?
@@MDCSYD Im not sure what that is. But PRS contacted me with the specs after giving them the serial number. It was custom ordered by Righteous Guitars near Atlanta as a One Of solid paint for the 594. It is Metallic Red on a maple top.
The S2 has more of that mid-frequency LP sound to me. Both great sounding guitars though. I'd be happy with either one.
Do both models have the same pickups?
I love the S2 sound
The neck finish and the frets are finished differently for sure, aside from the electronics and pickups etc. There is a considerable amount more work in finishing. S2 are great guitars though. And if you have any skills you can upgrade the parts and finish the neck and frets. Or get someone to do that if you aren't confident.
I'd look at both core and s2 used before deciding. Seen really nice core guitars in excellent condition for 14-1900. And S2 for around 800-1000
PRS pickups are nice but not my choice so I'd probably change them anyway. Really stuck on arcane and gravelin pickups.
Même si je n'ai que des notions d'anglais la vidéo est très bien faite pour que l'on comprenne l'essentiel. 2000$ c'est beaucoup et la vidéo permet de se faire une idée avant d'acheter car là ou j'habite il n'y a pas de possibilité d'essayer des PRS. Pour moi je préfère le son plus rond et plus chaleureux de la S2. Merci pour ce comparatif.
I think people are too easy to spend more money to get unheeded (at best) results. Subtle tone differences, for instance, can be matched with EQ.
True, but what you get overall can't be. The S2 594 is more overpriced by comparison when you consider all aspects. People buying a core model are looking for more than just a playable guitar. These kinds of opinions are driven more by economic feasibilty than practicality. Most people tend to buy the best they can afford :)
Excellent review
The s2 has import electronics and pickups. And a few other small differences. I think the tuners are different also. But afaik the bridges and tailpieces are the same.
The new S2 is all American made and uses the pickups from the core model.
There is so little difference now. It’s insane.
Very fair comparison. I have the S2. I think the core sounds better, but value wise, it's hard to beat the S2.
Not really, in terms of actual value. The S2 594 is pretty spendy for an S2, and resale on S2s sucks. A used S2 is the way to go if you're trying to be frugal :)
When above a certain price range, the difference between an expensive guitars and more expensive guitars will become exponentially small. Sometimes you're paying for double the money for an extra 1%, does it worth it tho? I guess as long as you like it, it's worth every penny.
The thing is tho, for what you get the S2 is more overpriced than the core model. You can find S2 Standards for 800 bucks brand new and the resale value is comparitively worse than the SE line :)
Clarity in chords in OVERDRIVE on the Core
Very subtle indeed and I had to put on headphones to hear it. This was a great explanation of the two models that PRS needs to improve on their website. I'd have liked to have heard a less effected lead tone but I get it that the worship services players are not looking for a searing blues lead tone... at least I don't think they are. The last time I went to any church service it was just old bearded men with scrolls, choir and someone's aunt playing a Wurlitzer. 😜 Thanks for posting this short review! I know how much work and time it takes to do all this. 🙏🏻
Thanks for the comparison, Brian. I prefer the clarity and brightness of the Core model. But, I agree - they're so close, especially with effects on. I'm not sure I could tell the difference in a mix.
Could you compare an SE to an S2 to a Core model or something like this please ? I guess it should be interesting
@@ark8tct nope, I didn't find any comparaison between these 3 models
@@ark8tct I think buying an SE or S2 and changing the pickups (in time) is not a bad idea. 1 month ago I finally received my guitar, I choose an SE model (PRS SE custom 24 in Charcoal Burst) because it was way cheaper than a S2 or a Core model. So far this guitar is really nice, looks good (personal opinion) and plays great. Maybe one day I'll upgrade the pickups if I find the money, but to stay with these pickups is not a problem. The only thing I don't really like with my guitar is the push/pull knob to split the coils, it is not really natural to split the pickups that way when you're playing, I would have prefered a ''switch'' selector (like the pickups selector on Les Paul style guitats). But I didn't find any other problem with the guitar.
edit : if you finally pull the trigger on a PRS, please let me now about your experience , I would love to have your feedbacks too
The best budget PRS ever made is the PRS se Chris Robertson. With the p90 humbucker combo it's very bright and clear sounding. I would say it sounds as good as any high end guitar I've played...ever...
I would to say out the 2 guitars, I do like the s2 over the core guitar because i think you are right it has more warmer pick ups
i guess it come down to how much money you want to spent
Although not mentioned, I believe the S2 has a scarfed joint neck which adds to the discounted price. Apologies if you mentioned and I missed. Blessings. Otherwise, excellent review. Would also like to hear comparison in a clean tube amp. 🙂
LOVE the Core metallic blue!!!!
Good comparison! Is that S2 the Faded Blue finish?
love the custom blue
I like the clarity and brightness of the core but the s2's warmth is also quite nice. I does seem to get a bit muddy in the more distorted effects.
The 58/15LTs are much more articulate, warmer = muddier :)
That dark blue metallic is awesome
Great demo.
I'm the video the core sounds significantly better in every way. But I'm wondering if you change the bass, treble, and mid settings on both if they would sound more similar. I find that some guitars inherently have more bass or more treble, etc. than others and you need to adjust this accordingly. But sometimes no matter what you do the guitars just don't sound the same... one shines over the other...
There's better clarity and brilliance with the Core. I think it's the pickups.(edit - I commented before he described the differences haha)
Man, PRS just makes a beautiful sounding, playing, and looking guitar. You really can't go wrong with any model in any price range, you will indeed get what you pay for. Great video as always Brian, God bless you brother!
@11:00 - I don't dislike the colour - but I'm not buying a PRS to get sparkly blue. I'm not paying that much money to pass up some of those incredible burst designs in the various colours available.
I love the blue metallic!!!
If you will be playing guitar at the next Super Bowl during half-time then by all means buy the Core!
Great guitars. I can hear the difference in the the core model and a PRS core guitar is on my guitar bucket list, LOL. Sidebar... Was the final lead riff you played from "Hosanna" by Hillsong?
Where something is made has less importance for me now as a guitar player. The S2 may be made in the USA, however the pickups which make a huge difference in tone are not! So some of the components are imported. There is significant more clarity in the core model. And yes, warm does not necessarily make a pickup better.
I like the core sometimes and the S2 sometimes during the clean. I like the core more for the overdriven rhythm but like the S2 more for the lead tones. I agree core had more top end but I like the warmer lead tone from the S2. I am a home hobbyist so I could see maybe springing for an S2 but doubt I would ever drop +$2,000 for the core as tone was very close. I have an S2 standard single cut and it is my favorite guitar even about a 1997 Heritage H535.
The difference in clarity would be a lot more noticeable in a live comparison. With CZcams's audio compression at about 1/6th the quality of a CD, any perceived differences are likely a placebo effect. If you're hearing that thru your monitor, phone, or cheap PC speakers it's even worse. YT's BEST audio quality is around 220kb/s... about even with medium quality mp3s but not optimized for music. While fun when you're shopping for a new guitar, in a practical/technical sense YT tone comparisons are worthless. People hear what they want to hear, and don't think their wallet doesn't affect that :)
I have an SE and the S2 sounds similar, a little less defined and muddier than the Core pups. Core pups sound so much more precise. I'd still buy an S2 for the wood and brass though, can always swap pups. The metallic blue is nice for sure, but the thing about PRS Core is the beautiful wood grain and solid colors remove that identity.
The SE and S2 use the same pickups, so they should sound similar :)
@@ShamanicSavant my 2008 SE has different pickups to the current 85/15S in the SE/S2.
Hi!! Create a video the test versus in McCarthy Core vs S2 vs SE.
I picked up a PRS SE Tremonti for $250 in the UK. It's a great guitar, and since i will never spend more than 500 for a guitar, on PRINCIPLE! , it will just have to do.
I love the dark blue metallic!!!
I have 3 PRS Core guitars (a standard McCarty, a Smokeburst (Lacquer) McCarty and a Sunburst (lacquer) 245. I bought an S2 594 Thinline and liked it but wound up selling it. I liked the lightness and thought it was well built but was not a fan of the pickups and lack of a HSC. Aesthetically I didn’t like the plastic birds or bevel cut body. Rather than spend $1700 on an S2 (too much IMO) I would suggest getting a used McCarty for the same price; you’ll be getting a better guitar and won’t suffer any depreciation.
To my ear, the core is much brighter and louder than the s2. But for the s2, i love how compress the guitar sounds. Anyways, both are awesome guitars. And good job for the review! God bless!
When will your strat coming? 🤤🤣♥️♥️♥️🎸
Wow I like the warm tone of the s2 much better. I tried come of the high end PRS whn I played pro never liked the tooth pick treble of the prs. The s2 sounds much better like the gibson warm sound.
Must say that the bridge pup on the S2 is pretty good. The Core seems to shine on the other positions to my ear.
i'd be swapping electronics anyways. they both look killer!
So the core 594 in that dark blue metallic.....how can I get that guitar? That thing is beautiful!!
The core model has a brighter and more open tonality which I preferred, but they're not worlds apart. I have a sneaking suspicion that I'd be claiming that the core model was warmer and more vintage sounding if the audio tracks were switched.
Contrary to the note at the top left concerning the tuners, the 2020 model does not come with the Phase III tuners. For 2020 they come with vintage style non-locking tuners, both the core and the S2.
Ah they must have changed that - the one I have has the locking tuners.
@@worshiptutorials Actually I think they changed it for the 2019 model year. They're kind of cheap Kluson knockoffs, the Phase IIIs are WAY nicer in both form and function. I've got a 2017 594 Wood Library and it's a phenomenal guitar :)
PRS guitars are starting to become much more popular with Sunday morning guys. Including me. The silver sky and the 594 cover like 90 percent of what I would ever need. They need a tele. I still love my fenders and reverends but the prs is most played at this point. (Yeah. I have ditched my gibsons. Just don’t work for me. I understand the love but the 594 just hits better with me )
How about a lesson/tutorial for that clean piece you played? 😀
Big miss not splitting coils. That’s a huge facet of the 594, how strat-like the split tones are
Does prs sale the core pickups separately? 5815 lt ?
Unfortunately they don’t 😥
@@worshiptutorials Doesn't take a genius to know why !
The neck on the S2 is functionally a 3 piece neck, the neck on the core is functionally a 1 piece. (The little wings on the headstock are another 2 pieces that I'm not counting)
Theoretically the 1 piece neck has better sustain, but in practice the 3 piece is cheaper to make.
To my ears, that aligns with these neck manufacturing techniques.
I'm surprised by the difference between these. The Core definitely has more clarity, brightness and is more articulate.
core is CORE
Would love to see your review of the SE once available
WHAT TO MY EARS, THE S2 SOUNDS LIKE IT HAS A BLANKET OVER THE PICKUPS WHILE CORE SOUNDS LIKE THERES LOT MORE BREATHING ROOM. DIDN'T EXPECT THIS SINCE S2 REPUTATION WAS SO GOOD.