Hybrid Done Right
Hybrid guitars walk a tightrope: they compromise on both electric and acoustic to be passable at both. The PRS SE Custom 24 Semi-Hollow Piezo doesn’t try to be a Les Paul and an acoustic. It’s a semi-hollow electric that carries piezo ambition—and it actually delivers.
The 85/15 S humbuckers handle the electric side. The L.R. Baggs/PRS piezo bridge handles the acoustic side. Dual volume controls mean you can blend or switch. It’s versatile without sounding confused.
The Dual Pickup System
85/15 S Humbuckers (Electric): These are voiced for clarity and articulation. Perfect for a semi-hollow where you don’t need aggressive bite.
L.R. Baggs Piezo Bridge (Acoustic): The genius part. Instead of a conventional piezo saddle, the PRS uses the L.R. Baggs Dual Source system. Piezo elements under the bridge capture vibration information that gets converted to acoustic tone. Clear highs, defined lows, natural sustain.
Dual Volume Controls: You get separate volume pots for the magnetic pickups and piezo bridge. Run them balanced, or turn one down completely to isolate electric or acoustic. Blend them—run both at 75% for a hybrid tone that exists nowhere else.
Practical Applications
Your setlist has three songs with acoustic intros and electric verses. Instead of bringing two guitars, you bring one. The magnetic volume handles the electric sections; the piezo adds acoustic context.
Does the piezo tone sound natural?
L.R. Baggs piezo systems sound natural—not digital or thin. The bridge-mounted piezo captures string vibration accurately. High-end electronics mean no artificial artifacts.
Can I use both pickups simultaneously?
Yes. Both volume pots control independent circuits. You can run both at full volume, blend them, or isolate one.
Is this a replacement for an acoustic guitar?
Not exactly. The piezo adds acoustic texture, but it doesn’t replace the volume and body projection of a true acoustic. Ideal for recording and hybrid arrangements.
For another take on the PRS formula, check out the PRS DGT Semi-Hollow Review.
How easy is it to switch between piezo and magnetic on stage?
Very easy. Turn one volume pot down, turn the other up. It’s a fade, not a click. You can do it mid-song if needed.
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Players looking for something in a similar vein might also consider the Epiphone Les Paul Special Double Cut Figured.