PRS vs Gibson | Les Paul vs 594 Singlecut sound comparison

#Gibson #Lespaul #PRS #privatestock
How does the Paul Reed Smith McCarty 594 compare against the classic Gibson Les Paul 1959 reissue? In this video I compare both guitars as I try to decide whether to keep my 594 Singlecut or Doublecut. Checkout the other two videos in the series where I compare the two 594's and the Doublecut 594 vs. Les Paul. Help me decide which to keep!
Links to my other comparisons:
PRS 594 Doublecut vs. Gibson Les Paul: • PRS vs GIBSON | Les Pa...
PRS 594 Doublecut vs. PRS 594 Singlecut: • PRS Doublecut OR Singl...
Happy to answer any questions in the comments below!
Rock on!
-Johnny Z

[@ylemp]

I can't get over how beautiful the PRS sounded. It was so clear and smooth and for the ambient/ethereal parts it worked so well. The Les Paul sounded great too, it has more of an edge to it. I think to my ears it was very noticeable in the double stop bends and the arpeggios at the end of the solo. With the Les Paul it seemed like the overtones were crashing into each other creating a more aggressive sound. With the PRS it sounded so smooth and clear, and I loved that.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the observations, Nora! I think you really nailed the essence of what is so special about the PRS SC - it is so clear! Also, it rings endlessly (longer than most of my other guitars).

[@davidr.wilson8194]

If its the same 594 Singlecut that I bought the pickups are low wind and low output which helps it to have that beautiful tone.

[@7CTAC]

Hi gain - Lester is better - more composed

[@ShamanicSavant]

The ideal answer is "keep both" if you really like both. If I had to choose, I'd go for the one that feels the best. Tone wise, they all sound great in your hands, and they're similar enough to where that wouldn't be my deciding factor. Looks wise they're both stunning and I'd be happy as a clam with either. It would come down to which one "felt" better. I wouldn't try to explain it objectively, I'd just trust my intuition and go with it :)

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the reflections, John! Really great point about trusting intuition. I find that the look, sound, feel, etc. are all inextricably linked when it comes to how much a particular guitar excites me to play/write.

[@B_Wolfen]

I think you are nailing it. They are all incredible guitars, and are probably able to be dialed in with the signal chain to match 99.x%. It is the feel and the inspiration that that gives on top of their undoubtedly rich tonal palate that should aid the final decision. The only way to get a real go-to guitar...

[@dreamscuba]

Perfect answer. I could not say it better.

[@norseman61]

Both sound beautiful and incredibly similar. Since the main point is to decide which PRS to keep, I’d lean toward the double-cut just for variety sake. But YOWZA! Those are three spectacular guitars, and your playing does them justice!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! I’m leaning DC for that reason and no bad choice, but not easy!

[@lorenzo-agnes]

Thanks for this excellent comparison. I came here wanting to prefer the PRS and ended up doing just that :) The LP sounds wonderful, but still in that "familiar" LP way. The PRS has "close enough" LP sounds plus added breadth and airiness. What I wasn't expecting was to end up preferring the single cut over the PRS doublecut! PRS single cut is the one.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

My pleasure, Lorenzo - thanks for the thoughtful reflections as always! I had a similar experience / realization during the process as well.

[@clivematthews95]

They’re so similar, I think the single cut prs comes closest to sounding like a Les Paul, but there’s simply no beating a Les Paul at being a Les Paul ❤

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I must agree, Clive - well said!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I must agree, Clive - well said!

[@synonyx]

Nice comparison. First video of yours I've seen. I was looking for 58/15 sound demos to compare my WL 594SC to as I have the same pickups.1 I must say you explain everything clearly and in an easy-to-understand format. The video and audio quality is TOP notch. Love how you show the signal chain and break it down. You earned a subscription out of me! Look forward to what you come up with next.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the kind words and appreciate the sub! Glad you found the channel. Rock on!

[@stopmakingstupidpeoplefamous23]

I'm a PRS homer....but the Les Paul has and always will have a mid-range other guitars don't have....but that Singlecut 594 is glorious.

[@nickh1933]

Keep up the awesome videos. You are a fantastic player with a great ear for exceptional tone! That and you’re video production skills are chill and polished. Thank you for the work you put into it. Looking forward to more vids.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you and my pleasure, Nick - that means a lot and I appreciate the encouragement!

[@brandonbryson3317]

Both sound great, but in my personal experience, I prefer a Les Paul every time. I had a 10 top 594 that was awesome and super clear and smooth like yours. I also have a 1983 LP studio and a 2020 LP custom black beauty. Something about the LP just have so much texture and almost like it has extra frequencies that just make it sound both huge and thumping, but also bright and aggressive as hell at the same time. I ended up selling the 594, despite it being the more comfortable and better built guitar.

[@wootton900]

The prs finds that magic where the open notes have a hint of strat tones which really sound heavenly A prs sounds so perfect !! BUT those bright nuisances and overtones of the lp also are heavenly imagine if you could just have both

[@fizzervc7264]

There really is just something special about the way the les paul sounds, I'd love to hear how they compare if you swap the pickups with each other.

[@brandonbeach2141]

I feel the Gibson has better Top end clarity and presence, but they are close. Makes me wish I had a Gibson, but these newer single cuts from PRS sure are sweet looking.

[@brad_neal]

Not sure I can pick a "best sound", but damn, that PRS is a freakin' work of art. I have a beautiful 60's reissue AAA top LP that I love and will likely never part with, but I HAVE to get one of those 594's. I live north of Dallas and have an awesome PRS dealer very close by (Guitar Sanctuary). My guess is I will have one before we ring in 2024! Great comparison, and nice guitar work!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Brad! I hear you and I’ve enjoyed owning both. I’ve orders from the Guitar Sanctuary on several occasions and would love to go there someday! Best of luck in hunting down a keeper 594 to accompany your Lester!

[@TheBlackzat]

You can also play with the pickup height to get it closer to the LP, and see if that makes a difference too. I think the main sonic difference is the bridge pickup of the LP has a hotter mid range that gives it more grunt

[@timveazey3489]

Thanks so much for this! Exactly the comparison I was looking for. I know which guitar to buy now!! Great evaluation of these two wonderful guitars!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

My pleasure, Tim - glad you found to helpful! Thanks!

[@dragan4658]

Its obvious that both of these amazing sounding/looking guitars are keepers. I feel the Gibson has more character and if I had to make a Choice I would keep the LP. Thanks for sharing, and awesome playing as usual!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you and my pleasure!

[@chrisvsmusicny]

Not much I can say that others haven't already, but I just needed to tell you that the looks and tones of all these instruments are stellar. You're clearly an expert at dialing in sounds. I'm not terribly acquainted with PRS, so your videos have helped me learn more about them. Much appreciated! But again, just WOW. All those maple caps are out of this world. Having a LP like that would be a dream come true for me, so I'm glad you're not considering getting rid of it. 😅 Subscribed!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the kind words and sub, Chris! Glad it was helpful.

[@shahnawazvlog6266]

Great video I have both guitar Les Paul custom and PRS , love the PRS but Gibson will always be my choice it and old war horse!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! I like that POV and can relate for sure!

[@ShamanicSavant]

Same here... it's the old heart vs brain thing :)

[@Venetianization]

Looks, playability, neck pickup, and middle position go to the PRS, bridge pickup goes to the Gibson. I own a SE singlecut 2008 model with stock pickups, and I used to own a Les Paul Studio that I bought in 2006. I did own both at the same time, so I compared them a lot. It is not the gear that you compare, but it translates all the same. I don't play in a band anymore. Mostly jamming on a saturday or sunday with a clean sound with my spark on a Polyphia clean preset, or a Marshall Artist 4203. My playing style is a mix of reggae, blues and funk. I mostly play in the middle position. To me it's like the 4th position on a strat. Very underrated. What I have experienced, is that the lower string have a very rounded sound, while the higher strings a crisp, and clear tone on my PRS. The LP low strings were kind of flat sounding, while the low stings have a very, very nice chime. Here the PRS is my choice, because crisp chord attacks work like a dream with the bass riffs on the low strings. Like the sound on the low strings on the Siglecut, the feel is smooth and rounded. The gibson felt like an unflexible chunk of wood. Not hard to play, but not really a sensation. And there is nothing like bending a string on the Les Paul. It's like made for bends. Here and there I turn on the gain on my marshall, just to feel the sonic power, and hear the bridge pickup scream and roar when I drop down do D. I think that most people would agree, that there is no match like a Les Pault that is plugged into a Marshall tube amp. The two are made for each other. The PRS just can't compare. It's to weak sounding. My mexican strat equipped with a DiMarzio PAF Pro in the bridge beats the PRS, but can't hold it's own compared to the Les Paul. The nech pickup I don't really use on it's own. It's to sterile on the PRS and a bit to muddy on the bass strings on the Les Paul. I think that the biggest diferences between your guitars and mine are with the neck pickup, and the quality of tone that it brings. But I have never really been a fan of humbacking neck pickups. I much prefer a singlecoil neck pickup sound, thats why I have my mexican strat. The 4th and 5th position. For just rocking out, I was thinkig about buying another PRS SE Singlecut 2008 model. These are sold really cheap and equip it with gibson piskups, electronics, and PRS SE locking tuners

[@paololuciano2776]

Hi! I'm Paolo from Italy. Thanks for your precise recensions! Whi you don't made some videos about Prs Santana? I own some les paul's, sg's, one prs mccarty... all gorgeous... but Prs Santana (I own two) has something transcendent, luminous, meditative and religious than the other models don't get... Do you agree with me? (forgive my english... io parlo italiano\je parle francais)

[@2000bhoy]

You have some excellent chops Johnny. My favourite of the three guitars was the double cut PRS but honestly, you can make all of them sing. Much respect from Scotland!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, Steve! I appreciate the very kind words and thanks for listening!

[@antreb15]

For me, having watched all videos, the two single cuts are the choice for me. That PRS is lovely and you have a special Gibson there too. Lucky guy.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Anthony! Appreciate you listening and sharing.

[@samohtben]

Great playing and tones as always. For the point of the video my feedback is to keep the double cut and LP, as they’re more different and I think more complementary than the LP and the single cut.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, Ben - much appreciated! I'm hearing it the same way at the moment!

[@LGrice]

Wow this video makes me love the Gibson les paul even more, now I know what to buy for my next toy 😆

[@fredcarter7003]

For me the PRs bends are awesome,Gibson is also great, at the point of playing both with the picture change in the video it was so hard to tell them apart

[@zvenx]

A few years ago I bought a PRS (Custom 22 2nd hand) because I was avoiding Gibson (Opcode ex user) but wanted the Les Paul sound.. I have to admit in all your videos and all the videos I have ever seen, I always prefer the Gibson... I think you hit on the main reason, Familiarity.. It has a sound I have heard over a 10,000 times on over 1,000 records...Guitar is not even my first instrument but I think the Les Paul sound is the sound I could pick out in any comparison of every instruments comparing different manufacturers and models...I would keep the Les Paul and Return the PRS...

[@OscarBenben]

I love your LP and the sound and look of the prs 594 double cut more

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Kept the LP and DC 😁

[@tonyenglish5153]

Im a PRS fan and the Les Paul is amazing as well. PRS for smoothness, clarity and separation which really would be my preference and as many have already shared the Gibson is incredible sounding as well. Id keep both if possible but if only one its the PRS. Great comparison.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Tony - appreciate the input! Big PRS fan as well.

[@cmonsterz]

I suggested keeping both as a response to the previous video and I stand by that. I really think that the SC has a gorgeous thick tone that is round and warm even when pushed.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the suggestions and man I would love to keep 'em both. They're all top notch tone machines.

[@markcrisostomo108]

Came across your video while searching for a Gibson Les Paul. First off, you have really nice gear man! Plus the video was well presented. Beautiful guitars, although sound wise they're not too far off from each other. The high gain part kinda reminded me of some Eric Johnson stuff. Was listening through head phones and to me the PRS sounded a bit cleaner and the Les Paul had a little more grit to it. I'd say keep them all haha you're pretty much capable of making them sound incredibly good. Cheers mate!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Mark! Agree - it's sort of a clarity vs. grit thing between the two so a good argument to keep them all. Cheers!

[@ivanradkov]

In my ears Les Paul is the best ) PRS in this compare "too balanced". Great super awesome playing! Bravissimo!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks so much!

[@esq6881]

I’m just sort of living vicariously through this video series and dreaming of having just one of these three beauties someday. no easy choices here.

[@smelltheglove2038]

I don’t make tons of money, but I quit going out to the bar, I quit smoking cigarettes, I decided I would grow my own “herbal remedy” and took all the money from those vices and saved it up. I can’t believe how quickly I was able to save up for a Gibson LP standard. Then I did it again and got myself a CS 335. Then I did it again and got myself a CS Stratocaster.

[@bradotto2251]

Good lord holy moly that is one incredible, beautiful PRS!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

It really is!

[@bartvetGenX]

Great work. For me PRS (all of them) is the guitar for session musician (clarity, selectivity etc) and LP is the choice for rock'n roll kind of guy (and that is 'character'). I will choose......TELE ;)))

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, Bartosz! Well said and makes sense to me. Got to have a Tele in the collection too (and I do of course!). Rock on!

[@michaelschneider7590]

What a great comparison of iconic guitars at the very peak of quality! I’d love to see the same thing done for (and would personally get more use from) the guitars’ less expensive brothers at roughly $2K - PRS S2 McCartys vs Les Paul Classic and Studio. Afterwards, maybe the 1K shootout too!

[@carminelombardi9575]

Great demo video, it's appreciated. They both sound great, however I have two questions, (1) which one will hold its resale value better, (2) which one stays in tune better.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! I bought the PRS Private Stock used and sold it for 40% more than I paid for it. I think that is in part due to having got it for a good price, COVID/inflation, and it’s an exceptionally unique and beautiful spec. I bought the LP new and would probably take a 30-40% hit (partly due to condition). This is why I seldom buy new! Believe it or not this Les Paul stays in tune perfectly (just as good as the PRS). I get that question a lot due to Gibsons ups and downs with quality over the years. I think you’ve inspired me to make a video on this subject!

[@carminelombardi9575]

@@RatherBeRiffing Thank you for your sincere reply, I would personally look forward to your video on the tunability issue. Cheers!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I made the video and just uploaded. Thanks for the inspiration!

[@Henry77680]

Mate your opening track is so good! Actually I’d go for the PRS on this one. Sounds with more personality. We all know the Les Paul sound and only a Les Paul has it but… rather less interesting to me now. Also the PRS is much more comfortable to play. I had to get rid of fantastic sounding Les Paul since didn’t feel nice to play in the end

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Henry! I do find the PRS more comfortable too. I don’t write much music on the LP and pick it up more when I want that specific sound.

[@vladvongearjunkia4711]

Sir, I’m very impressed, great playing skills and feeling together with taste for amazing sound. You have one big fan from Slovakia! And I’m voting for Gibson, but I’ll do what I can to keep ‘em all :)

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, Vlad - much appreciated! I'd love to keep 'em all for sure! :-)

[@incognitoguitars9999]

Nice job. Great playing and great production.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@charlesbecker101]

The biggest difference is in the pickups, and if you listen to the interviews with Paul, that is his intent. He stated his pickup development is geared toward getting more single coil character into their response. The Gibson pups hump the midrange. The PRS pups soften mids and add a bit more high and low end, hense, a bit of Srat like clarity. This PRS trend really stands out when you play one of their Narrowfield equipped guitars. I love the Gibson sound too, it's nice to have the variety of both for which ever mood strikes.

[@grantglover1799]

So both sounded great. As a LP owner myself I have to give it to the 594. It was clearer, more defined, and sounded more responsive/resonant to my ears. I would also say that having heard all 3 comparisons now, I still like the DC overall, but I do think the SC compliments your LP better. It’s more of a vintage vs modern LP type vibe w/those 2. Hope that helps!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank for the input, Grant! Those are definitely advantages that I hear in the 594 as well, which harder to key in on in a KZbin so great ears!

[@grantglover1799]

@@RatherBeRiffing Thank you very much! That really means a lot! Good luck with your decision. I’m sure I speak for most when I say it’s a great dilemma to have.

[@denmar355]

They are very close in a mix. Definitely of the same ilk. Both great. And your playing and tone is really great!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! Well said, Denis!

[@BillVerdon]

subscribed...mainly cuz your damn playing... amazing tone and feel in your playing!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the kind words and sub!

[@OldeDog_NewTricks]

I wish more people would play the Les Paul clean like this.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Indeed - there are stellar clean tones to be had from a Lester!

[@isaacbdennis]

Both of these sounded quite similar. I’d probably sell the double cut if I had to sell one. And honestly, as a PRS fanboy, I’d say keep that Les Paul if I could only keep one because it’s hard finding a LP that looks and sounds that good!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Great point about the LP!

[@MarshallAmpMan]

Johnny which guitar did you keep. I am sort of doing what your doing only I have a PRS S2 McCarty single cut and have been considering trading it for a Gibson Les Paul Traditional with P90's which is all black. I paid around $1800 for my guitar 4 years ago from SW. I feel that PRS's don't keep their worth unlike Gibson. Do you think that me trading the PRS for the LP Trad would be a good deal. Of course I will have to give the store some cash. Would that be a stupid move? Thank you.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I kept the Les Paul and a 594 Double cut. I sold the 594 Single cut. I don't know enough about the models you are talking about to have a POV about the economic side of things. However, I would say that if something about the PRS is not completely inspiring you, it is worth exploring other options. I owned a Les Paul with P-90's for many years that was my #1. It did have some drawbacks to consider including tuning stability and the noise of the P-90's, but it felt great and sounded awesome. Best of luck in your decision!

[@marks8437]

The PRS is gorgeous, I preferred it to the LP because it sings; it feels more emotional. The PRS grips me more and I feel more connected to the music. I'm surprised how much more I liked it because I love LPs.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

It was a killer PRS and I miss it!

[@holmes1978]

The Gibson Les Paul Standard Is what all are trying to match or out do ! but it’s never been broke there’s nothing to fix it’s The Original Often Imitated but never Duplicated sincerely it’s Bigger Then A Legend !!!

[@truthserum9157]

At different times I’ve owned both, right now I’m playing a private stock single cut with the 58 PU’s, it seems to do more, like sound like a strat, or a LP depending on what i want, on a stage I don’t like switching guitars, I think this one does it all.

[@GeorgeAmodei21]

WOW! Again BEAUTIFUL Im sure you would like to keep ALL :) Im in my STUDIO Now I hear what you did...OMG! Such a Great Warm Clean REC/Mix/Master. Thx again for making this VIDEO!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

My pleasure and thank you! Indeed it would be nice to keep ‘em all!

[@JeanDo]

Please keep the LP so I can buy your PRS SC 😂 Great video and playing 👌🏻👍🏻

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Ha! Thank you! I’m still really torn as there are no wrong choices really. 🤘

[@Hotwired_hearts]

Both sound great but that prs is pure gold . The bridge pick-up looks like it’s raised quite a bit it sounds class

[@KyleCastroTheDrummerBoy090613]

Sounds really great my Dear friend!! Love and respect Kyle!! 😊🥁🇵🇭

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you - much appreciated as always!

[@charlesjackson6753]

I’m leaning on the Gipson it has the tradition sound, which is not perfect but that is what electric guitars are all about. Its like a Harley it might not be as perfect as a Honda, but the sound over rides the perfection.

[@VanjaSpirin]

They are very similar, but I like PRS better. LP can be muddy, and PRS is never muddy.

[@rams1528]

Love the sound of the Les Paul. I recently bought a 50s standard. I actually sold a PRS USA Tremonti because I felt the sound of the two guitars did not compare!! One thing, I like the look of your Les Paul WITH the pickup cover on the bridge. Removing the cover tends to cheapen the look.

[@kirk189]

My son felt the same way! Has a LP standard… waited 2 1/2 years for a USA Tremonti PRS and after he finally got it really didn’t like the sound. He plays the LP mostly

[@Spidouz]

The Tremonti is not a Les Paul equivalent… no wonder you didn’t like it. If you want a PRS version of a Les Paul, you want the SC 594!

[@rams1528]

@@Spidouz You are absolutely right. I mistakenly thought it could be the equivalent of a Les Paul Axcess. It has its own sound which is for the aggressive rock playing of Tremonti.

[@garyslash7552]

Three absolutely stunning guitars in the hands of a great player! So whichever PRS you choose, I guess you cannot go wrong. It's hard to describe sounds with words, but to me both PRSs sound more refined, sophisticated whereas the LP is more Rock'N'Roll. Personally, I would take the doublecut PRS.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, Gary! So well said and I think that sums things up nicely!

[@garyslash7552]

@@RatherBeRiffing I don't want to sound smart but maybe the following can help you make this decision: To me guitars are not simply tools, musical instruments but they are (at least some) pieces of art. Back in the 1990s my late Dad bought me one of the first PRS Custom 22s. It's tobacco sunburst with a 10Top - it's like a Dragon 1 without the dragon inlays, no birds but moon inlays. So my notion of a PRS has always been a double cut. Consider the two PRSs you can choose from from an aesthetic point of view. They are both great looking pieces of art, play and sound wonderful. Pick the one the "speaks" to you the most. Looking forward to your decision, take care

[@revelationsoundstudio]

The one thing that has to be talked more about is comfort and playability. Its not just about tone. I have a LP custom and a 594. Its no contest, the PRS allows access to the higher notes easier and the weight is better. In addition it stays in tune better. This is due to the Gibson headstock separates the D and G strings sideways. Then the 594 offers single coil option which the Les Paul does not.

[@Generic_Randoms]

They sound almost identical in the mix(although somewhat different on its own) The prs is much more versatile and the neck is gorgeous I would have gone with the prs probably

[@megatar3]

I was really hoping I'd like the 594 more for the price savings, and while the difference seems subtle to me...I've been chasing that Les Paul sound and feel since I picked one up very early into learning to play. I probably would've quit if it weren't for that experience with a proper instrument. Both sound amazing, but I'm going to keep chasing :D

[@DannyBrooks1]

That has to be one of the best looking and sounding Singlecut PRS I have seen. If you ever want to sell it let me know.

[@DK00018]

How about a video with the 2 PRS side by side?

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Done! Link in the description 😁🤘

[@ShamanicSavant]

That's where this all started :)

[@shane2973]

I do not envy the decision you need to make! If what you are looking for is something a bit different than the LP, to allow a bit more versatility, than i would say the Double Cut PRS. I personally prefer the Singlecut and with the amazing coil tapping both PRS guitars have available you can get alot of versatility tonally from both the single and the double. That said the single seems a bit closer to your LP making it less "different" from the LP than the Double. I think someone else said keep BOTH, sell your dog, trade your car, whatever!! 😆

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the input, Shane! It would just be easier to keep both lol! Great point about the versatility and coil taps. I though the SC was a bit closer to the LP than the DC too.

[@AfroPear]

I'm liking the tone of the Les Paul more but to me it sounded like you were able to play it easier on the PRS, which gave that guitar a more "soulful" dynamic

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Insightful observation!

[@Spidouz]

I prefer the PRS because notes are more clear and defined. In comparison, the Les Paul sounds compressed and muddy… maybe ok for chords but definitely not for a lead.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Indeed - the clarity of this PRS is definitely a strength.

[@xx_HI_xx7]

Got a mcarty wood library and its my favorite guitar to play, but often find myslef gravitating to my 73 les paul even though its an anchor.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Nice guitars you have there!

[@edwinmartinez9787]

LP all the way PRS sounds great but something about the LP notes just comes out. Great demo fantastic playing love your tone. Have the new hot rod deluxe fender with creamback celestion 75 watts not a fan too clean. Thanks for the demo

[@jimbohuizinga4087]

I think both sound beautiful I prefer the 594 Single cut

[@ParanormalResponse]

WOW. ok. The Les Paul does have a familiar sound and that is showcased here. But the PRS is slightlty more unique in its tone and it really matches your style which I find to be also unique but still familiar. I hear a couple influences in your playing but your phrasing is mind blowing to me. So for me, The PRS and you is a really great freaking team! Great playing!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Wow - thanks for the kind words and thoughtful insight! I tend to gravitate toward modern alternatives to the classic guitar designs because I find they open up my style a bit more.

[@jasminmisicmusic]

I would prefer PRS because I tried it both but would be happy with both in my possession also haha

[@jackjamz]

So good! 😅 I watched twice, and both times came away with being super impressed by the clarity and overall tone of the PRS. Seems like that is a special instrument- “a good one” In the previous video comparing the LP to the PRS double cut, I was enjoying different aspects of tones yielded from each. Curious for your input on how they play in hand- like some guitars play themselves, some guitars are harder to play but somehow push you in creative ways, some are lively with response, and frankly some are uninspiring or lacking in a subtle way.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the observations! I love the question and examples you mention about the playability experience. I will focus on that in the next video! There are definitely some notable differences in that department.

[@DennyBob521]

This why I have a Les Paul and a SingleCut 594 as well - The Les Paul has an indescribable mojo, but so does the PRS, both amazing, but different. I think the LP shines in the mid range bite, where the PRS is more balanced and has a much. much better Neck pickup.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Well said again, man! I love having both and the 594 neck pickup really is so musical and clear - it really shines!

[@TheJimty]

Three stunning guitars. They all bring something different to the party, but if you held a gun to my head and made me choose two, I’d keep the double cut PRS (it has a unique quality to its tone and that top….) and the Les Paul (because everyone needs a good Les Paul to do the Les Paul thing). That said, for recording purposes the single cut PRS slightly edges the LP for me in all but the middle position. So ideally I’d take the gun off you and keep them all. Just to add that your phrasing and touch are superb. Hats off to you, sir

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the kind words and input, James - much appreciated! This comment really sums up how I'm relating at the moment!

[@handymanhawkins]

The prs sounded better with high gain, but I preferred the Les Paul other wise. It would depend on your work, the prs would cover a lot of bases as gigging workhorse.

[@Zefi8125]

Self-blind testing in this video my ears always went for the LP (Even though my brain says that the PRS has more possibilities). Got a Gibson ES-339 and can't decide between these two - standard and s2. Not sure which one would add to my repertoire.

[@theartfuldodger935]

To my ears, the Paul had more ring to the notes and also a bit more sustain. Same thing for the LP compared with the 594 Double cut. Now the DGT? That one had very clear note separation. I'd probably opt keep that one along with the LP.

[@youKnowWho3311]

LMK when you want to sell. I am very interested in both! That touch of Chorus definitely adds a nice splash of color on top of the cleans.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Good to know! With the stereo rig, the chorus is only on one amp, which keeps it subtle while adding dimension. Glad you dug it!

[@youKnowWho3311]

@@RatherBeRiffing I went wet dry my first time with stereo. Sounds surprisingly good that way.

[@BoDidily-id9dy]

I am buying a new guitar soon. Can’t decide between a les paul studio and the 594.

[@BrazzyRosewood]

PRS McCarty 594 easy pick, imo.

[@andreasqwe]

That prs is stunning. What color does it have?

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Sandstorm Dragon Breath

[@gtrmusic69]

Bottom line: they both sound great and you can't go wrong with either of them. That's it. On a side note and because of that the next step is feel, inspiration and ease of playability. Which one feels better? Which one inspires you to write more music and to improvise better? Which one is easier to play? In case they are still both equal after all of that I'd keep the Les Paul.

[@reymisteryo9163]

Indeed! And if can have them, I'll keep both. But I think I'll always be playing the Lea Paul more than the PRS.

[@rickysreviewsandhowtos]

The LP has that LP sound no doubt but is it better? I don’t know that SC 594 sounds incredible tough choice

[@tomd.5645]

This is a difficult choice. Both PRS’s sound very slightly in between the Les Paul p-u positions and a bit more polished. The Les Paul to me has a slight bit more top end in the bridge position as you removed the cover and gives a rock n roll mojo to the sound compared with the other 2. I’d keep the Single Cut though because I am that kind of dude 😁 Question though, what does the SG bring that your other 59 alternatives do not?

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Good point! I think the exposed bridge gives a bit more rock ‘n roll for sure. I’m not super experienced with SG’s, I owned one briefly way before I had these guitars and it was a more modern spec. I’d like to try out a more vintage spec reissue someday. Any thoughts on the SG yourself?

[@tomd.5645]

I meant the Single Cut by SG sorry!

[@dananthony6258]

I have a les paul. It’s my main guitar and played Gibsons my whole life . I don’t own a prs but I can tell you a prs is a better guitar without flinching or batting an eye.

[@DK00018]

Let's do this!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

🤘😁

[@joepatriot6431]

I prefer the LP. Maybe it's just the PU's in the PRS. PRS quality is very high. I also have a 59RI 2007 and a PRS 513 2016 model. I would hate to part with either. The 513 has 13 different pick up variations available making it more versatile. Both sound amazing.

[@santiagoterrazas3279]

Excelente video 😃 ¿Que canción es la del inicio del video? Muchas gracias por compartir!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you and my pleasure! It’s original music I composed for the video that I haven’t released.

[@robbiegodinho9377]

those guitars sound unbelievable but I realised the single cut prs is a little brighter than the Lespaul and the double cut prs mainly in open chords with low gain and if I had to keep one of them the single cut would be my option...

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the observations, Robbie! I've also noticed I've tended to lean toward the DC for chordal/composition as it's quite lovely with open chords/low gain as you point out.

[@LucasMastropasqua]

They’re all quite stunning! They all sound amazing and I’m sure they all play amazing, but I don’t think I’d be able to pass up the 594 sc because of the finish and quilt top.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Well said! That SC was breathtaking and I miss it!

[@LucasMastropasqua]

@@RatherBeRiffing I also meant to say your playing was amazing as well! Very inspiring. I just discovered your channel when searching for a PRS video and subbed very quickly! 🤘🤘🤘🤘

[@RatherBeRiffing]

@@LucasMastropasqua Thanks for the kind words, Lucas! I appreciate knowing that and for the sub!

[@jamesdeananderson1411]

1ST: Mother of balls, this guy has good gear. (Just had to get that out.) 2ND: I have long-maintained that Paul Reed Smith wanted to make an in-betweener, all-around guitar, with great finishing and modern comforts. He succeeded with the single-cut, in every way. You can hear real reflections and depth from both the Strat dynamics AND the Les warmth. 3RD: (Holy hardware, Batman, this guy can play.) That said, this video is a well-executed master class on how to make a gear comparison.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Wow thanks for the kind words, James! Great point about PRS - I like to embrace them on their own very worthy merits!

[@jamesdeananderson1411]

@RatherBeRiffing I grew up singing on a stage. Got into rock at 18. I had a huge voice and a huge range. (Whole family could sing with power, to be honest, and we were all artists.) Bands. Recording. Light touring, on top of a career in graphic design and illustration. I haven't seen anyone that all-around smooth with a guitar while still being a solid human-to-human communicator since a short tour run with Dave Rude Band, (he's the younger guy in Tesla), and I've NEVER seen someone so good at comparison content. Never. I doubt most of your viewers even know how smooth and seemless this work is. It's the most professionally solid work I've ever come across... and I watch a LOT of guitar gear and maker videos. I can barely (BARELY) even play but started carving my own style of bodies and headstocks. People seem to love the design and comfort so I may have stumbled on to something cool, that feels classic while fixing some old issues that I believe Paul Reed Smith also wanted to tackle with engineering and art. In the meantime, I'm consuming mass amounts of guitar-related content... and this is perfection. Lighting is a skill. Audio is a skill. Camera work is a skill. Playing is a skill. Video Communication is a skill. Not only did you master all of them, you literally have some of the best ears for guitar TONE. Not just fingers. EARS. Think about it: Most shredders have already wrecked entire sections of their hearing to the point of pretty noticeable detriment. So have I, but as a singer, the frequencies are different. You play like a power pop singer can sing anything but knows how to control it... and that gear tone isn't just from expensive gear. It's from being able to control three or four lions at once, like a dang circus ringmaster. Thank you for the excellent work. It's rare content like this that raises the bar so high that any of us who will ever try to create their own will take it more seriously but still have fun in the process. For example, when you listen to Ian Thornley from Big Wreck, he can sing like a monster but also play like a wizard. Myles Kennedy. Prince. As long as there are people to look up to, you can still be a fan of and enjoy the process. Even if you get to be good at something after years of work. THAT is how good this video content is. You're killing it, man. "Great work" doesn't really quite explain this.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

@@jamesdeananderson1411 Wow, James - I must say that this is an incredible comment to receive! THANK YOU! I put a lot of passion and hard work into doing what I love and it's nice to know folks can see/appreciate the multi-faceted effort that goes into this. I love the singer analogy. I always strive to be play what will speak emotionally and in the context of the music. Very cool that you know that first hand from your singing ability and musical upbringing. I wish I put the time into developing my singing chops. It's never too late I guess! (btw, I love each of the artists you referenced - amazing stuff!)

[@alexandrefalardeau9976]

Gotta love those EJ inspired run 😮 at 9 mins

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Totally! Love EJ!

[@ccaputa]

Your Les Paul has a classic '59 sound, very nice. The PRS is has more mid's to highs and very clear. FYI, I live in Nashville and I played an original 1955 Les Paul Jr Sunburst this morning at Rumbleseat Guitars. It was awesome!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

So cool! Man I’d love to go to. Nashville someday and hit you Rumbleseat. I love Jr’s. I bet it was awesome! I wish I was in the market for a vintage one when they could be had for half of what the are getting now.

[@ccaputa]

@@RatherBeRiffing You have to make the trip someday, you would love it!

[@denniswilliams9145]

Although I like the sound of the PRS, the Les Paul just has a sound that no other guitar maker seems to be able to capture and I believe that is because of the fact that every other manufacturer is looking to correct the so called deficiencies of the Les Paul (neck angle, stop bar etc.) when those are the very attributes that contribute to its unique sound to begin with.

[@ronaldgore4969]

Sir , my ear tells me that the prs 594 single cut, has the best sound of all three ,great collection.

[@nathanhiggins4745]

I'll be the first to say that the emperor has no clothes. They are indistinguishable in a mix. Keep whichever one you like playing more. They're both beautiful.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks and appreciate that POV, Nathan! I was surprised how similar they sound in the mix and thought there would be more comments about this. Thanks for the comment!

[@athathoththegreat3901]

The PRS wins for me. So did the Gibson but the PRS has a more solid and smooth sound.

[@lueysixty-six7300]

Id choose that PRS, based on looks alone! But...I own both - Gibson and PRS. If I could only have one, I HAVE tonnage a Gibson Les Paul - it's my all-time favourite toaaan! But....being that I have a Les Paul..a Custom 22...aswell a Gibson SG Special...if I was confronted with this choice, to add to my current line up - the McCarty all day! That thing is sublime!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Nice collection!

[@Doug5524]

For looks PRS, for sound tone, etc Les paul I think the top on the PRS is beautiful and I like the idea of an ebony fretboard I have a Les Paul 4A top in Ice tea and I think that is beautiful it's from 2013 I have a PRS S2 and I must say it gets well used so and the end of the day what one feels best in the hand? great video more like this please and I'm a New subscriber as from to day

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the comments and sub! Glad there’s appetite for more vids Ike this - more to come! There are some really beautiful Lester’s out there (sound like you have one). I bought this one more for its tone. For me the PRS personally feels a little better so I will play that more in general unless I want the classic LP tone.

[@millman82]

Does the 594 SC you have here not have the 85/15LT+ pickups? The “+” version are a little hotter PAF vs the 85/15LT and they really are voiced more for the single cut version. I feel this 594 SC is slightly darker than the Gibson. It could be the case of not having the standard “+” version of the pickups…

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Interesting. I just checked the spec sheet and they the non-plus version. Thanks for the info, Tim!

[@millman82]

@@RatherBeRiffing I think that is why I kinda preferred the tone of the double cut version in your video between that and the single cut. Without the + version of the pickups, which you can’t buy separately, I’d say return the single cut. I love my 10-top 594! I will be buying the 594 SC next but it will definitely have the 85/15 LT+ pickups in it.

[@alfredcakeburn1166]

I like both but overall as a studio tool, the PRS all day long. As a foot on the monitor or staggering out of a mid western church unplugged with a top hat on, yes it's the Les Paul but for an instrument that works across the board the PRS.

[@micheledibella9375]

I love your intro, can I have the backing track? Or chords maybe?

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the interest. I’ll eventually offer access to tracks, but don’t have immediate plans. It’s C#min, A sus, and B power chord. The fun part is voicing it so the high E and B strings ring open on all chords. Enjoy!

[@micheledibella9375]

@@RatherBeRiffing thanks, I like me your style. I would to know more, thank you

[@concernedcitizen939]

That Les Paul has an awesome tone and personality. Hope you still own it. It’s special.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks - I kept it!