Bottom Line: The PRS S2 Series 2024 lineup—all 13 models now with USA-made pickups—is the sweet spot of PRS guitars. At $1,729–$2,299, you get Maryland-assembled instruments with Core-quality pickups at half the price. If you understand value, you understand the S2.
PRS S2 Series 2024: The Thinking Player’s Sweet Spot
The S2 Series is the middle child of PRS’s lineup: above the SE (Indonesia-made), below the Core (hand-assembled in Maryland). In 2024, PRS made a pivotal move: upgrading all 13 S2 models with USA-made pickups—85/15, 58/15 LT, Narrowfield, and TCI pickups depending on the model. This changes everything. You’re no longer buying a “budget” PRS; you’re buying a genuinely excellent guitar at reasonable money.
The Lineup: 13 Models, One Mission
| Model Types | Custom 24, Custom 22, Standard 24, Starla, Santana, DW, Hollowbody |
| Pickup Options | 85/15 (humbuckers), 58/15 LT (vintage), Narrowfield, TCI (single coils) |
| Assembly | Maryland-made, CNC + hand finishing |
| Hardware | Gen III tremolo, PRS tuners |
| Fretboards | Rosewood or maple |
| Price Range | $1,729–$2,299 USD |
| Key Upgrade (2024) | All models now feature USA-made pickups |
USA-Made Pickups: The 2024 Game Changer
Until 2024, S2 models used quality but imported pickups. Now, the entire lineup has been upgraded to USA-wound pickups—the same units in Core guitars. This is significant. The 85/15 humbuckers in an S2 Custom 24 are sonically identical to the Custom 24 Core; the difference is the body construction and finish options. You’re not sacrificing tone; you’re sacrificing cosmetic options and full hand assembly.
The 58/15 LT pickups (in vintage-voiced models) are warm and articulate—perfect for blues and traditional rock. The Narrowfield pickups (in Santana models) are mid-focused and broad—ideal for smooth leads. The TCI single coils are bright and punchy. Across the lineup, PRS has ensured every model plays to its strengths tonally.
Maryland Assembly: The Quality Sweet Spot
S2 guitars are assembled in Maryland, not Indonesia (SE) or hand-assembled like Core models. This means CNC precision combined with hand finishing. Frets are leveled by machine and polished by hand. Bodies are routed with precision, finished with attention to detail. You get consistency without the premium price tag of hand assembly. For working musicians, this is the ideal balance.
The Model Range: Something for Every Style
Custom 24 S2: The safe choice. Figured maple top, set neck, 24 frets, 85/15 pickups. It’s a slightly less ornate Custom 24 without the bird inlays or premium binding. Tone is nearly identical to the Core version.
Custom 22 S2: Same as the Custom 24 but with 22 frets. Some prefer the tonal warmth of a 22-fret body. Excellent for blues.
The PRS SE Ed Sheeran Cosmic Splash Limited Edition offers a different approach within the same PRS family.
Standard 24 S2: Solid body without figured maple (plain top). Still excellent tone, more subdued aesthetics. Good for players who don’t need the maple top.
Starla S2: Single-cutaway with TCI single coils. Bright, articulate, and versatile. Bolt-on neck. For players who want single-coil clarity without buying a Core Silver Sky.
Santana S2: Mid-focused Narrowfield pickups. Warm, smooth, and broad. Perfect for blues and smooth rock. A underrated gem in the lineup.
Hollowbody S2: Semi-hollow body with 58/15 LT pickups. Resonant, warm, perfect for jazz and blues. Different from anything in the SE or Core lineup.
For another take on the PRS formula, check out the PRS DGT Semi-Hollow Review.
Who Is It For?
For you if: You’re a working musician looking for quality without paying flagship prices. You understand that USA pickups matter more than cosmetics. You play live and need an instrument that won’t fail. You want PRS pedigree at reasonable cost.
Skip it if: You need bird inlays and premium bindings (buy a Core). You want the absolute lightest or lowest-priced option (buy an SE).
PRS S2 Series vs. Gibson USA vs. PRS Core
Gibson USA guitars ($2,000–$3,000) are hand-assembled in Nashville with USA pickups. They’re heavier, warmer tonally, and more traditional. The S2 Series is lighter, more articulate, and more modern. A PRS Core ($5K+) is hand-assembled with premium woods and bird inlays. The S2 is the value play—better pickups than old S2s, exceptional construction for the price, full PRS heritage. Choose Gibson for tradition and weight; choose S2 for value and articulation; choose Core for the full luxury experience.
Pricing: The Real Value Proposition
At $1,729–$2,299, the S2 Series undercuts Core models by more than 50% while delivering 85% of the tone. USA pickups, Maryland assembly, and solid craftsmanship for under $2.3K is genuinely excellent value. If you’re a gigging musician with a budget, this is where to spend your money.
The Fender vs Gibson is a strong alternative from a rival brand.
First Impressions: Professional Quality at Accessible Price
When you unbox an S2 model, the first thing you notice is consistency. Frets are level, finish is even, hardware is tight. Plug it in—the USA pickups sing. The S2 Custom 24’s 85/15s deliver warmth and articulation indistinguishable from a Core model. The Starla’s TCI single coils are bright and clear. The Hollowbody resonates with genuine acoustic character. These are professional instruments. On a gig, no one would know you didn’t buy a Core model.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- USA-made pickups in all 13 models
- Maryland assembly ensures quality
- Excellent value vs. Core models
- Wide range of models and styles
- USA pickups are identical to Core models
- Solid resale value
- Gig-ready out of the box
- Price-to-tone ratio is exceptional
- No bird inlays (compared to Core)
- Plain or simple figured tops (not premium)
- CNC assembly vs. hand (minor difference)
- Limited collector appeal vs. Core
FAQ
Q: Are the USA pickups really identical to Core models?
A: Yes. The pickups are hand-wound in Maryland by the same team. Sonically, they’re indistinguishable.
Q: Why choose an S2 over an SE?
A: USA pickups, Maryland assembly, and tonal consistency. An SE is excellent; an S2 is a step up in quality and reliability.
The Gibson L-1 Anniversary Limited Edition is a strong alternative from a rival brand.
Q: Should I save for a Core instead?
A: If you’re a working musician, no. The S2 is professional-grade. The Core additions (bird inlays, hand assembly, premium woods) matter less than you’d think. Invest in gear and studio time instead.
Q: Which S2 model is the best value?
A: The Custom 24 S2. It’s versatile, tonally balanced, and represents the S2 philosophy best.
Bottom Line
The PRS S2 Series 2024 is the answer for players who understand value. USA pickups, Maryland assembly, full PRS pedigree, and 13 models to choose from—all under $2.3K. This is where professionals buy. This is where smart money goes. If you want legitimate PRS quality at reasonable cost, the S2 Series is it.