Exploring the PRS S2 Custom 24-08: A Guitar Review and Demo

Today, I'm diving into the details of the PRS S2 Custom 24-08, a stunning instrument that I recently had the pleasure of trying out. This review isn’t sponsored; I simply love guitars and want to share my thoughts as I explore different models and features. So let’s get into it!

First Impressions

The PRS S2 Custom 24-08 is a beautifully crafted instrument. Right off the bat, I noticed the locking tuners, nickel frets, and the 25-inch scale length, which all contribute to its solid feel. The Pattern Thin neck profile is particularly comfortable, making it easy to play for extended periods.

With a rosewood fingerboard and a maple cap over a mahogany body, this guitar not only looks great but feels great too. The switching system is noteworthy, allowing you to split each coil or humbucker individually. This feature, combined with the TCI pickups, offers a lot of versatility.

Understanding the TCI Pickups

Let’s talk about the pickups, as they’re a significant aspect of the S2 Custom 24-08. The TCI pickups, which stand for “tune capacitance inductor,” are designed to provide more clarity than standard humbuckers. However, they don’t push the amp as hard as typical humbuckers do. Instead, they’re akin to a stronger P90.

This guitar shines in clean to medium gain settings, making it ideal for styles like blues, classic rock, and even some R&B. While you can push it into heavier territory, it may not deliver the tightness required for metal. The top end can get a bit saturated, which might not be suitable for chugging or high-gain solos.

Who Is This Guitar For?

If you’re a blues player or someone who enjoys pop music, this guitar is worth considering. Its versatility allows for a range of tones, especially in the ACDC and fusion genres. The 24 frets provide access to a broader range, although I personally prefer 22 frets for clean sounds.

For those who love a good single-coil sound, the coil-splitting feature is a significant plus. The guitar handles clean tones well, and I found myself enjoying the sound throughout my demos.

The Switching System

The switching system is another standout feature. Unlike traditional push-pull pots, which I’m not a fan of, the mini toggles allow for individual control over each pickup. This means you can easily customize your sound, whether you want a full humbucker tone or a crisp single-coil sound.

This level of versatility is a game-changer for players who like to experiment with their tone. You can switch the neck pickup to get a different flavor altogether, making it feel like you’re playing multiple guitars in one.

Fit and Finish

The fit and finish of the PRS S2 Custom 24-08 are exceptional. PRS is known for their attention to detail, and this model is no exception. The aesthetic appeal is striking, making it feel like a piece of art as much as a functional instrument.

While I didn’t encounter any significant drawbacks, one minor con is that the pickups are proprietary, meaning you can’t swap them out easily. However, this shouldn't deter you if the sound works for your style.

Playability and Comfort

Playability is crucial for any guitarist, and the S2 Custom 24-08 excels in this area. The bridge feels excellent, and there's no neck dive, which is often a concern with some guitars. It balances well, making it easy to play in various positions.

Additionally, the action is impressive right out of the box. I found the guitar to be very comfortable, making it suitable for long sessions without any fatigue.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the PRS S2 Custom 24-08 is an outstanding guitar that combines aesthetics, versatility, and comfort. It’s a fantastic choice for players looking for a quality instrument that excels in clean to medium gain settings. While it may not be the best fit for high-gain metal, it shines in genres like blues, rock, and R&B.

If you're interested in adding this beauty to your collection, you can check it out here. I hope this review helps you in your guitar journey, and feel free to drop a comment if there’s another model you’d like me to explore!