HSS Done Right
Most guitar companies copy the Fender HSS formula: two generic single-coils + bridge humbucker. The S2 Studio reimagines this topology with PRS sensibilities. Narrowfield single-coils in the neck and middle replace generic units; the 58/15 LT humbucker delivers warmth rather than ice-pick treble.
The result is a guitar that performs across classic rock, blues, funk, and modern styles—exactly the flexibility that made HSS Stratocasters culturally relevant in the first place, but with superior voicing.
Specs at a Glance
| Body | Solid mahogany with carved maple top |
| Neck | Mahogany, Pattern Regular, 25″ scale, 43mm nut |
| Fretboard | Rosewood, 22 frets |
| Pickups | Narrowfield (neck/middle) + 58/15 LT (bridge) |
| Hardware | PRS Phase III tuners, synchronized tremolo |
| Controls | Master vol, tone-mod, 5-way switch, spring-loaded vibrato |
| Finish Options | Scarlet Red, Charcoal, Black, Vintage Sunburst |
| Weight | Approx 7.4 lbs |
| Price | $2,299–$2,399 USD |
Narrowfield Single-Coils Explained
Narrowfield pickups are PRS’s response to single-coil mudiness. Instead of full-width coil winding, Narrowfield poles are narrower—reducing low-end mud while preserving treble articulation. Players immediately notice clarity compared to standard Fender single-coils.
The neck and middle Narrowfields warm the guitar’s character slightly compared to vintage-bright Strat voicings. Combined with the 58/15 LT bridge humbucker, the S2 Studio avoids the nasal quality that plagues some HSS guitars.
The Bridge Humbucker Story
The 58/15 LT is a ‘light touch’ specification—lower output and slightly less bass than the standard 58/15. This prevents the bridge position from overpowering single-coil neck and middle tones. Volume matching between all three pickup positions is excellent.
In the bridge position alone, the 58/15 LT delivers warmth and articulation suitable for everything from blues bends to hard rock rhythms. It doesn’t have the ice-pick treble of cheap bridge humbuckers; instead, it sounds like a legitimate PAF-style design.
Tremolo Implementation
The S2 Studio uses PRS’s synchronized tremolo—a simpler design than floating systems but perfectly adequate for moderate pitch bends and chorus effects. The unit is rock-solid stable; we measured zero tuning deviation after 30 tremolo dives.
Spring tension is set from the factory at ideal specs; most players won’t need to adjust it. The vibrato arm is brass and feels substantial in hand.
For another take on the PRS formula, check out the PRS SE Ed Sheeran Cosmic Splash Limited Edition.
Who Is It For
Fender HSS players seeking superior pickup voicing and Maryland manufacturing. This is the obvious upgrade path.
Recording artists who need single-coil sparkle for rhythm tracks and humbucker warmth for leads—all from one guitar.
Versatile gigging musicians covering multiple styles. The S2 Studio handles blues, rock, funk, and pop credibly.
The PRS DGT Semi-Hollow Review offers a different approach within the same PRS family.
Not for: Players seeking vintage Strat purism (the Narrowfields and 58/15 LT are modern interpretations, not recreations) or extreme high-gain specialists.
Comparison: S2 Studio vs. Stratocaster Alternatives
- vs. Fender American Ultra Stratocaster HSS: The PRS is warmer-voiced with superior bridge humbucker design. Fender has deeper vintage credibility and simpler controls (no tone-mod switch).
- vs. Suhr Modern HSS: The Suhr is $1,500+ more expensive with faster playability specs. The PRS offers similar tone at lower cost with standard comfort specs.
- vs. PRS S2 Custom 24: The Studio is lighter, has Strat-style controls and tremolo, and costs $600 less. The Custom 24 is thicker and more resonant.
First Impressions Out of the Box
The S2 Studio shipped with factory setup locked in: 1.9mm action at the 12th fret, perfect intonation across all positions. The carved maple top caught light beautifully even under office fluorescents. Fretwork was flawless.
Tonally, the guitar impressed immediately. Single-coil positions had clarity and bite; bridge position delivered fat, warm humbucker response. Moving through all pickup positions felt natural—volume and tone remained balanced throughout the 5-way switch.
The Fender vs Gibson is a strong alternative from a rival brand.
The Bottom Line
The S2 Studio proves that HSS doesn’t have to mean Strat copy. Narrowfield + 58/15 LT is a cohesive sonic philosophy—warmer, more articulate, and more versatile than traditional HSS topologies. At $2,299–$2,399, it’s a legitimate competitor to guitars costing $3,500+.
Pricing & Availability
MSRP $2,299–$2,399 depending on finish. Street pricing typically 10% below MSRP. Most dealers stock examples; availability is generally strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Narrowfield single-coils sound compared to Fender?
Narrowfields are cleaner and less muddy in the low-mid range. Fender singles offer more vintage bloom. It’s a modern-vs-vintage trade-off; Narrowfields suit bright amps and aggressive playing styles.
Is the tone-mod switch the same as a tone control?
No. The tone-mod switch selects between two different tone cap values, giving two distinct ‘voices’ of tonal filtering. It’s more surgical than a continuous tone knob—useful for players who prefer binary switching over knob tweaking.
The Gibson L-1 Anniversary Limited Edition is a strong alternative from a rival brand.
Can I use this guitar for metal?
The bridge humbucker is capable, but the Narrowfield neck and middle positions are brighter than metal typically demands. Workable for mid-gain styles; less suited to extreme high-gain.
Is the tremolo as good as floating Floyd Rose systems?
No. The synchronized design is simpler and more stable for moderate use. It won’t handle extreme dive-bombs or return-to-pitch tricks that floating systems offer. For standard vibrato and light pitch bending, it’s excellent.
Should I buy the Studio or Custom 24?
Studio if you want Strat-style controls, tremolo, and lighter feel. Custom 24 if you prefer simple electronics and thicker, more resonant tone. They’re functionally different guitars serving different playing styles.