PRS produces some of the finest electric guitars money can buy, and while the Maryland brand already has a host of budget-friendly SE models to its name, the brand took things even further earlier this year by unveiling the SE CE 24 Standard Satin.
At just $499, the slick satin six-string is comfortably the cheapest instrument in the PRS roster, but, as noted upon its release, it’s not strictly a “beginner” guitar.
Instead, it remains a genuine, top-spec’d guitar that maintains PRS’ famed penchant for unrivaled craftsmanship, as well as a spec sheet that belies its humble price tag.
Specifically, it boasts an all-mahogany body; a 24-fret, 25” scale bolt-on neck; a PRS patented tremolo; and 85/15 “S” pickups, which cover the entire spectrum of vintage and modern sounds thanks to the additional push/pull tone controls.
Other notable specs include PRS-designed tuners, a rosewood fretboard, Birds inlays and a 10” fingerboard radius, as well as a choice of three finishes: Charcoal, Turquoise and Vintage Cherry.
It made quite the impression upon its release, and it made an even greater impression on Guitar World’s Paul Riario, who described the S CE 24 Standard Satin as “a home-run of a guitar”.
He observed: “While there are other glossy topped guitars in PRS’ SE series roster, what stands out is the stripped down nature of this SE CE 24, with both the neck and body having a very light satin finish.
(Image credit: PRS)
“It’s super-responsive, and sounds great. As usual, PRS’ workmanship is top notch from top to bottom on this guitar.”
“For its price, the SE CE 24 Standard Satin is impossible to beat. This guitar is a beast, and its almost-bare wood satin finish offers up a raw guitar sound that makes me feel more connected to it.
“Combine that with PRS’ unparalleled craftsmanship, easy playability and the versatile humbuckers – it’s an all-rounder PRS that’s unpretentious and cool.”
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