We’ve already established that the S2 series by PRS is pretty awesome. Just check out our S2 CU24 review. These stripped-down axes are a great way to get PRS quality on a budget. But what’s up with the PRS S2 Standard 24 Satin?

On top of some experimental models being released under the S2 line like the Vela we reviewed, some old obscurities are being brought back as well. The original PRS Standard was released in 1987, and the S2 line has allowed for a cool re-imagining of that guitar.

Let’s see how the PRS S2 Standard 24 Satin holds up.

Features:

The full specifications of this S2 Standard 24 Satin are:

  • Mahogany Body w/ S2 Carve
  • Set Mahogany Neck with Pattern Regular Profile
  • Dot Inlays
  • 25” Scale Length with 24 Frets
  • PRS S2 Locking Tuners
  • PRS Non-Locking Tremolo
  • PRS S2 HFS Treble & Vintage Bass Pickups
  • 3 Way Blade
  • 1 Vol & 1 Push/Pull Tone
  • Satin Vintage Cherry Finish

We already know about the S2’s different top carve, and that the hardware is still stable. So let’s get right to it.

The lack of a maple top is what the Standards are known for, and it definitely looks great on this guitar. I love seeing the raw grain on a mahogany body with a satin finish.

I normally hate any PRS without birds but with the addition of a pickguard and the stripped down satin look, I really like this guitar’s aesthetic. It feels very different from many other guitars out there.

Tone:

This is a much warmer guitar than a “normal” PRS. The lack of maple cap makes a rather large difference, and a much more rounded and fat tone is instantly noticeable.

The HFS and Vintage Bass pickups aren’t the best out there, but I can’t imagine them upsetting anyone. They’re pretty general interest, and on the hot side.

I’m not a huge fan of the split tones. They’re definitely serviceable, but they’re not up to the standard that Core Models have set. To be fair, that’s because those guitars not only have some amazing pickups, but also frequently have some specialized wiring. Oddly enough, I think the splits are much better in the normal CU24 S2, which could be attributed to the extra punch and clarity from the maple top?

Regardless, I think many players with specific tone needs could benefit from a swap. Luckily, that’s not a big deal given the inexpensive price of the guitar. Conversely, less picky players could easily get fine tones for most genres out of these with a good rig.

Build Quality:

S2s are made in the same Maryland factory as PRS Core Models. They’re fantastic guitars overall, and the only corners being cut are small aesthetic and mildly functional matters. These include the inlays, non-recessed control plates, etc.

The fretwork is fantastic, there are no finishes errors, and the tuning is very stable. The satin finish is exceptionally well executed considering the guitar’s price range.

Considering the general fit and finish of the guitar, it’s very surprising how much quality you’re getting for around $1,000.

Final Verdict:

The PRS S2 Standard 24 Satin has classic PRS appointments, but almost feels like a totally different guitar…and it works.

The satin finish is beautiful and rugged, and the dots actually manage to work, especially with the addition of a pickguard.

The tone is definitely for someone who likes vintage vibes, and is not too far removed from the classic Les Paul Studio sound. It would definitely be suitable for more lo-fi metal genres like oldschool and sludge, however.

I think the PRS S2 Standard 24 Satin is a cool way to bring back a beloved model with some offbeat changes and an affordable pricepoint.

8-9-8

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This article was written by Kyle Karich, our editor located in Florida.

 

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