Are you on the hunt for new guitar gear that won’t break the bank? Look no further than the PRS CE 24 SE, a stunning instrument that promises to deliver exceptional quality at an accessible price point. In this detailed review, we’ll explore everything from the unboxing experience to the guitar’s tonal capabilities, build quality, and overall playability. Let’s dive in!
Unboxing the PRS CE 24 SE
Upon opening the box, the excitement was palpable. This is the first PRS guitar to grace my channel, and I had been eagerly anticipating its arrival. The guitar comes packaged in a well-padded gig bag, which is always a plus for travel and protection. The thoughtful packaging includes a poly bag for the guitar itself, ensuring it arrives in pristine condition. This kind of attention to detail is something I truly appreciate, especially considering past experiences with guitars that had minor damages during shipping.
First Impressions and Specs
As I pulled the guitar out of the bag, I was greeted by the striking sandblasted red finish that gives off a three-dimensional effect, reminiscent of something out of a sci-fi movie—think Darth Maul! It’s lightweight yet feels sturdy, and I can’t help but admire the craftsmanship. The PRS CE 24 SE features two humbuckers, a floating tremolo system, and a master volume and tone control, the latter equipped with a push-pull pot. The bolt-on maple neck adds to its appeal, and the overall aesthetic is definitely eye-catching.
Specifications Breakdown
- Body: Mahogany with a swamp ash top
- Neck: Maple with a scarf joint
- Fretboard: Rosewood
- Pickups: PRS 85/15S humbuckers
- Tremolo System: Floating tremolo
- Controls: Master volume, master tone (push-pull)
Let’s get this beauty tuned up and plugged in!
Setup and Tuning
Tuning the PRS CE 24 SE was a breeze thanks to its smooth tuners. The neck felt slim and delicate, requiring a gentle touch while fretting. This guitar definitely feels smaller than some of the models I’m used to, but it’s full-sized, and it’s just my perspective making it appear smaller. With the strings tugged and a quick retune, I was ready to plug it into my Fender Deluxe Reverb.
Clean Tone Playthrough
Once plugged in, I was eager to test the clean tones. The initial impressions were promising; the guitar produced a clear and resonant sound. Starting on the bridge pickup in humbucker mode, I cranked up the reverb for some added ambiance. The clarity of the notes was impressive, and I could already sense the versatility this guitar offers.
Exploring Pickup Options
Switching to single coil mode, I was pleasantly surprised by the tonal differences. The bridge single coil sound was crisp and defined, allowing for a funky vibe that I didn’t expect. The middle split coil option also added a lovely brightness to the sound, making it a perfect fit for various musical styles.
Crunch Tones
Now it was time to get a bit more aggressive. Engaging the Wampler Plexi Drive Mini, I wanted to explore the crunch tones this guitar could produce. The PRS CE 24 SE exceeded my expectations here, providing a palette of gritty sounds that were both chunky and clear. I found the playability to be phenomenal, although I did notice that the pickups might not handle high gain as well as I’d hoped. However, at this price point, it’s hard to complain.
High Gain Tones
Next, I switched to the Iron Horse pedal from Walrus Audio for some high gain experimentation. The middle position was where this guitar truly shined, offering a robust sound that balanced clarity and body. I did notice that the neck pickup felt a tad brittle under these settings, which might be something to keep in mind for those looking for a more aggressive tone.
Under the Hood: Wiring and Hardware
After getting a feel for the guitar, I decided it was time to take a closer look at the hardware and wiring. Removing the tremolo arm, I examined the headstock and the back cavity. The attention to detail was evident; everything was neatly organized, and the internal components appeared to be of good quality.
Weight and Wood Breakdown
The guitar felt light in my hands, weighing in at approximately six pounds, which is quite manageable for long playing sessions. The combination of mahogany and swamp ash not only contributes to the weight but also to the tonal qualities. The sandblasted finish is not just for looks; it enhances the resonance of the wood, making for a lively instrument.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
After thoroughly testing the PRS CE 24 SE, I can confidently say that it is an excellent guitar for the price. It combines beautiful aesthetics, solid build quality, and impressive tonal versatility. While the pickups are decent, I believe swapping them out for something more aggressive could elevate this guitar to new heights.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for new guitar gear that offers more than you might expect for its price, the PRS CE 24 SE is definitely worth considering. With its stunning design and impressive performance, it stands out in a crowded marketplace. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, this guitar provides an excellent balance of quality and affordability.
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