DGT vs 594 | PRS guitar comparison

In this video I compare the PRS DGT with my PRS 594 in order to decide whether it is worth adding a DGT into my guitar collection. What do you think? Let my know your observations in the comments below!
Happy to answer questions!
Rock on!
-Johnny Z

[@Crazy_Cane]

Man you always make the comparisons I’m dying to see that no one else makes, and you make them spectacularly! Keep it up man!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, man - really glad to hear that and will do!

[@brianhensien]

Agreed!!

[@fredcarter7003]

Is it just me or does this guy give a great demonstration , thank for all you do, awesome videos Every video is upper class,

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, Fred - really appreciate it!

[@Think_Up]

It's not just you. His videos are amazing.

[@erikhartley2494]

LOVE your videos man. The lighting is so relaxing. Your playing is stellar. Tone is incredible. Also the short form video length is perfect. Keep it up!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the kind words, Erik! I appreciate the feedback and encouragement. I’m glad to know folks like yourself are enjoying viewing as much as I enjoying making.

[@anthonylevas4123]

😎🙏🏼…Thanks man…Your videos are very well thought out, analytical, informative and your format highlights and accentuates the differences in tonal quality of the instruments you feature in a very subtle way. The meta tone is consistent throughout the few offering I have had the pleasure to view and your playing and style are remarkable. Your narration is spot on and easy to listen to. Thanks man.🙏🏼

[@RatherBeRiffing]

My pleasure and thank you for the kind words!

[@GaryKatz]

Great job with the subtleties of the tone variations of both gems. Thanks for demystifying the treble bleed nuance. Well done, bro. Appreciated. Gary

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, Gary!

[@erikanderson9119]

Loved the video and the music. I recently added a DGT into the mix along side my SC594 and Silver Sky. It’s such a happy middle between the two. The sound and feel of the DGT is very unique in the PRS lineup. Definitely worth having in your lineup.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Erik! Nice line up you have there! I can see the DGT sitting in the middle for sure.

[@joshuakoyukuk6381]

Just stumbled upon your amazing channel. I would love to see more DGT content

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, Joshua! Glad to know and will feature the DGT again.

[@brianhensien]

What makes this so difficult is that there’s not one bad tone in the whole video 😊 Tasteful playing and fine instruments, thanks for the tour!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Brian - this comment made my day 😁.

[@brianhensien]

@@RatherBeRiffing every time you release a video it makes my day! Thanks for your excellent work!

[@michaelclarkphoto]

You have some of the best tone I have seen anywhere on the internet. Thanks for the comparisons. I really want a DGT but not sure it is different enough from my 594 to justify it.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, Michael and my pleasure! That means a lot to know. I ultimately decided not to buy one, but do really enjoy the model. I just have several dual humbucker LP type guitars already and bonded more with the 594.

[@relaxedmax8972]

I play the DGT SE live in a very loud rock band. It’s perfect. Clear, but beefy. To me, the 594 has that recognizable 70s rock sound. Two great guitars!

[@djfuzzystump]

I really enjoyed that and just loved the intro jam.

[@curtdewolff5152]

Great Video. I really liked the edited video comparison. Nice job! Thanks!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, Curt!

[@lorenzo-agnes]

Excellent video as always! You said it at the end .. the treble bleeds make the difference. All the way through, the DGT kept a level of clarity and airyness the 594 doesn't seem to have. So yes, a welcome addition it would be! It's different enough to warrant being in the collection. Beautiful playing as usual :)

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Lorenzo! Well said. I really enjoy having the travel bleeds for that extra clarity. I love the 594, but wish the volume pits had a more usable range like the DGT. Maybe a cool mod to try in the future.

[@xoxxox5352]

Just found your channel and subscribed. Jeez man, your tones are so good on every guitar you play that you can’t go wrong. I’ve been playing for over 30 years, and I think you sound better than almost anyone I’ve ever heard. Just pick the axes that feel the best to you - they all sound fantastic.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Wow - thanks for the incredibly nice comment and I appreciate the sub! It’s been fun making these comparisons and what I’m learning in the process is that the most important thing for me is how it feels, as you mentioned, and if it draws music out of me. Glad you found the channel!

[@carsgunsandguitars]

2 of my favorite PRS models. I want both of these, and particularly love the livingston lemon drop finish... wow!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Both killer models! Livingston came out superbly on this example.

[@gbhrecordz]

Both sound absolutely amazing. Your playing is superb. The DGT sounds like a brand new 3-piece suit. Very focused, sharp but not harsh. And the 594 sounds like your favorite old leather jacket that’s worn in just right. It has a little more attitude and somehow sounds wider. Thanks for the time putting this together!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

My pleasure and thanks for the kind words! I love the analogy and it’s nice to have both pieces of attire for the right occasions 😁.

[@JohnPerryMusic]

Love the thickness of the 594 but also love the clarity of the DGT. What a hard decision!!

[@grantglover1799]

Both are obviously great guitars. DGT definitely has hotter pups and therefore is very focused. The 594 seemed to have more sweetness to it and dynamic range available. I thought they complimented each other really well. I absolutely think it’s worth considering adding the DGT back in the collection. I would also personally love more comparison videos with the DGT. As always really tasteful playing.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Grant! Appreciate your observations and really well said. I’ll keep the DGT around a bit longer and see what other comparisons I can come up with. Stay tuned!

[@norseman61]

Please do the tone comparisons with the Strats, etc. I’d be curious to hear the differences!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Cool - noted!

[@camai75]

Both sound great…and Im so jealous of your playing…just fantastic…and the top on that 594 is just insane!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, Chris! We have similar taste in tops. I love big wide chevron flame. It just looks "right" to me on the PRR's double cut body shape.

[@dirtboxsam5687]

One of the best comparison videos on the net. I use a Tramonti with 58/15s 2 volumes one tone and a master volume for easy swells in the middle position with Treble bleeds. The tone is a push/push for splitting coils.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the kind words! Cool mods. That’s sounds really flexible!

[@dirtboxsam5687]

@@RatherBeRiffing I spend most of my time in the middle position so it's makes the volume drop to a cleaner sound easier.

[@MountainLionessMusic]

Great comparison! Both guitars are beautiful and unique.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you!

[@bluesrock4696]

I love the comparison. You really bring out the best in both of these fine instruments. Fantastic work! I have both a DGT and a 594 Semihollow double cut. I love both of them. The DGT sounds amazing and the neck is so good, but it is about 8.5 lbs. The 594 neck is fatter than I prefer, but it weighs under 7 lbs. I swapped out the pups for 57 Classics and added treble bleeds. It sounds great and my back really appreciates the lighter weight. I am blessed to have both. If you can afford to have both, by all means, do so!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you for the kind words and comments! Great guitars you have there. I’d love to install treble bleeds on my 594 like you have. In one of my upcoming videos I’m going to compare a hollow body vs solid body 594. I’m curious how they’ll compare. The hollow bodies are so light!

[@bluesrock4696]

@@RatherBeRiffing If your Semihollow 594 example is like mine, I am going to guess that it will be slightly more airy or slightly less focused than the solid body. Not quite the difference between a Les Paul and a 335. I look forward to your next comparison. Again, awesome work!

[@MadDrummer100000]

We need more videos, my friend! I’d love to hear you rocking a semi hollow Gretsch like the Richard Fortus Falcon! Just discovered the channel and it’s awesome!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you!! I always wanted to try the Fortus Falcon. I could feature my Panther more in the meantime. More vids coming soon!

[@jameseason8206]

This is a really compelling comparison. You make both of them sound equally great and very similar in tone (to my ears and via the "dreaded KZbin compression"). I suspect the majority of the decision will rest on how each one feels to play for you.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, James! I’m learning a lot in the process and to your point, the tonal differences seem narrower than the playing experience differences. For example, the 594 is slinkier and resonates/sustains noticeably more than the DGT, however I only notice that as a player and not so much as a listener.

[@TrevorrNourse]

Beautiful and well played. Both models are nothing less than stellar and in your hands just incredible. I own the DGT gold top, so that model speaks to my needs. Having both would be the way to go . Thanks for posting. Your playing is incredible!!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Wow - thanks, Tevorr! I think the DGT look fantastic in gold! I'd like to own one again someday and would like an opaque finish (perhaps gold or black).

[@xF1revolution]

​​@@RatherBeRiffing I've got a champagne gold top DGT with natural back and a Brazilian board with the moons. The solid finishes really show off the carves in the tops moreso than the stains. Straight class.

[@TrevorrNourse]

@@RatherBeRiffing My next DGT will be Private Stock for sure. Worth the wait and investment long term. I chatted with David Grissom, asked him about his thoughts on a natural flamed neck. He does like them but if he only had one to pick from, which he doesn't, it is mahogany all the way.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

@@xF1revolution Nice! Great specs! I noticed the solid finishes really do dhow off the carves. If I ever spec a PS from scratch, I'd be tempted to get solid finish even though many may consider that blasphemy.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

@@TrevorrNourse That's great to know! Thanks for passing that insight along. It's on my bucket list as well. I'm curious about Korina as an option as I miss having that flavor in my rotation, but I'd probably play it safe with the traditional recipe.

[@TheBlackzat]

I love your playing and content man. Thanks! I’ve had both and they are truly great. They indeed each have stronger points depending on what you are looking for. I agree with the slinkier feel of the 594, I found the DGT a tad harder to navigate the fretboard due to the jumbo frets, and especially bend. My 2 cents there.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks Hector! I can relate with the DGT being a tad harder to navigate even with 10’s instead of the 11’s they ship with. Switching between the two during the making of the video was throwing my bends off. That said, it is a fun guitar with some strengths of its own that make it worth it.

[@dustingmyguitars]

The 594 sounds amazing! That is truly a special instrument

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks! It’s an inspiring one.

[@dustingmyguitars]

@@RatherBeRiffing Don''t know if you remember my channel name but I got that Santana project I mentioned last month done! I tried to post about it previously but the comment never showed up.🤷‍♂

[@BeastMadeReviews]

Great video--really enjoyed it! New subscriber here! Man that DGT looks incredible.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you and appreciate the sub! I noticed that the Livingston lemon drop finish varies a bit but I love how it came out on this DGT.

[@StratTones]

Fantastic tones, gear, playing and video quality! Wow man! Way to freaking go! 2 beautiful guitars and love a stop tailpiece on any humbucker guitar, but the DGT sounds too damn thick and great to play anything else PRS. That being said, that damn 594 is the most beautiful top and appealing I’ve seen on a PRS. That’s including years of looking on reverb and owning 2 DGT’s. Subbed and happily supporting your channel and efforts🙌🙏🌅🫡

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Wow - thank you for all the kind words and support! Yeah, man - the DGT is so thick. Those pickups are voiced perfectly to compensate for the trem bridge. The top on the 594 is a heartbreaker for sure - I bought it instantly when I found it. Thanks for the sub!

[@NINEWALKING]

I loved your 594 and 594 vs Gibson videos. I do not know how I have missed this one though. I love this one as well. Great playing, great gear and great sound. A was seeing a DGT in a shop in the other city for a while. Price was really good. A few months ago I was like looking into new guitar and I was like why am I not getting that one? I love the model and it is so different than PRS guitars that I own and it has a place in my collection for sure. Plus it has great story and sounds nice. Davids and Pauls story is a great one. At that point I wanted the full fledged Santana model and/or an DGT. Bot hare actually very very cost effective guitars. You get a tons of good stuff for a great price. Santana model I was interested in was/is half way between core and private stock. Great value, great looks, great guitar. So when I have finally decided to go and try it and get that DGT, it it was already gone 😔 Later in local shops did not have had an DGT and that was end of it. I am sad I did not scored that one. In the mean time I got next guitar but who knows what the next one might be 😀 Anyhow what happened is that next guitar became the guitar I was not even thinking about nor I knew I wanted ☺ I got boutique built guitar. One man job. And now I think I might be ruined 😊 I own double cut 594 Wood Library and Paul signed it as well and that made me very happy camper. DGT is definitely so different that it has it's own place for sure. I find PRS models with tremolos playing softer and easier then what you would think off considering of what strings are on it. For example on Santana 10's feel like 9's to me. Or on fenders 10's on Tele might feel even to hard while on the Strat they feel softer. So to me 25 scale with tremolo and 10's does not feel harder to play than 10's on 594. Same strings PRS 10's. They do sound different especially on lows. I mean scale lengths do not only models of guitars. 25 is definitely closer to that full round but snappier lows. While 24.594 or 24,75 sounds warm and round but no snap. Like my short scale PRS guitars have impressive lows. They can shake my place. But playing on longer scale especially around 5 to 7th fret and wound strings it can sound like modern slick bass guitar even. Anyhow now I want DGT or and Santana models 😊 But then again this builder has new model that makes me cry 😊 I wish I have millions and I could get all guitars I want.

[@denmar355]

Beautiful playing. DGT for me. It has a nicer sounding neck with distortion. The coil split sounds are more pleasing. Something about the upper frequencies seem nicer to my ears. Both are very good guitars. Splitting hairs really. Good video. Thanks.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Denis!

[@baystreetblues]

Not splitting hairs. My DGT has the sweetest,bell like, pickups I have ever heard. Its overdriven harmonics are just special. Overall there is just something special about it that sets apart from other exceptional guitar.

[@paytonsassaman]

At the time you made this video, I had both a DGT and a 594. I only have the 594 now. While both being great guitars I always preferred the 594 for the same reasons you do- pickup output, scale length aka "slinkiness". I'm not crazy on the trem either so I didn't use the trem that much - really only during gigs with my DGT. I wish my 594 had a treble bleed too - it does add some options for the player. The DGT was honestly the perfect gigging guitar. However the pickups are pretty high output for "PAF style" pickups, for me. I also use a jan ray and two rock lol so this was the perfect video for me. Nice work man, love your playing and comparisons. There's a fine line between the DGT and 594 tonally, and I'm glad someone made a video about the two.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you for the kind words and thoughts! I can totally relate to your experience. Great taste in gear btw! :-)

[@paytonsassaman]

@@RatherBeRiffing I came back to this video because I have the itch to get a DGT again! Do you still have yours? How do you think they compare now? Any change of thoughts?

[@nevillecragg9066]

I have two 594’s and no plans to get a DGT.. I came for the playing and the production quality 😄

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Neville - I appreciate it! As much as I love guitars, creativity is my first and foremost passion so glad you enjoyed.

[@cc771]

I love the way your private stock 594 looks. That flame maple top is to die for. That's one of my dream guitars. I only have one guitar in my collection that is very similar to that gorgeous flame maple top on your 594 and that's my 1998 Gibson R9.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks! That top drew me in too. I think the reverse chevron compliments the PRS design nicely.

[@johnmcaleese8459]

@@RatherBeRiffing That 594 is an example of people with some positive cash flow buy that guitar to professionally display inside their homes. Gorgeous.

[@druwk]

The biggest difference in the Tone is the Treble Bleed. Being able to roll off the volume to influence the GAIN in the sound really changes the Top end? Feel, and layout? They both seem very versatile, and have a usable Single coil tone. Your back line is SICK! You can create many, many stacking scenarios…another post illustrating how to get the most out a few pedals would be cool. Nice playing. They both sound great 😊

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! Yes, I think the treble bleeds open up a lot of options. Thanks for the video suggestion - noted! 👍

[@prashanta.shrestha]

Beautiful sounds, very good comparison, nice playing. DGT for me

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you!

[@ktm3602]

I believe they are very similar sounding with slight tone option differences but being the guitar nerd that I am and probably most viewers here I definitely say you would need both. I just wish I could make them sound half as good as you. Thanks for the comparison.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the kind words! My pleasure and well said from a fellow guitar nerd 😁.

[@skeeterman7144]

I liked the split a little more on the 594 bass PU. The DGT clarity is why I own one. Along with the general feel of the neck. Having a tremolo is a necessity for me too. My pick is your dads guitar.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the reflections. I like that it has a bit more output yet retains clarity. The tremolo is fantastic and I miss having it.

[@DiscoverDesk]

Wow! Liked and subbed. Great video!

[@adamgray8009]

Love all your demos. You're playing and tracks are perfectly done too. Well done. Owning both the DGT and McCarty 594, I'd very much agree with what you've said. I'll add my own experiences... The 594 neck is very comfortable and ergonomics over all excellent. But the DGT neck, for me with medium sized hands, is absolutely perfect. *Slightly* thinner and more narrow at the nut than the 594. I can use my thumb to wraparound on the low E string with relative ease on the DGT a la Hendrix/Mayer as a result. That and the knob layout makes the DGT slightly preferred. And the tremolo on the DGT is just amazing. It allows for such subtle tremolo and can also be aggressive, if not Floyd Rose style dive bombs. And it stays in perfect tune after using. And I don't really notice that slinky tone that you get on strats with a floating trem. I find very little down side to this trem system and allows for more flexibility. These reasons (in addition to what you've already pointed out) make the DGT the most versatile gigging guitar I own, at least when I'm striving for vintage HB tones. The Special 22 Semihollow is equally versatile but has a "strattier" thing going on. Would love to hear your review on a Special 22 SH, come to think of it. Thanks again!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Adam! I can relate to your experiences and very well said! I love the DGT trem for all of the reasons you mentioned as well. I’ll have to be on the lookout for a Special 22 SH. Thanks again!

[@scottdematteo]

Your dad not only has great taste but also has a beautiful sounding looking/sounding DGT. I'm after a second DGT so I can take one on the road and have one safe in the studio.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Nice, Scott! A friend just lent me his all korina DGT and I’m curious to compare it. Any experience/thoughts with different wood recipes on the DGT?

[@scottdematteo]

@@RatherBeRiffing I was looking for your contact info, I had some questions regarding your lighting techniques, I have PRS guitars with same finishes as yours and love how the lighting you use grabs them and make them look them look so beautiful. Would love to know what lights and light settings/brightness, warm etc you use. P.S. Heading up to Treehouse in October. Have you tried Spyglass yes?

[@yohanonshine4664]

The dgt seems to sound slightly brighter around the 5th fret. Actually picking from the 2 I play 24 fret guitars more so that's my choice. Nice playing and have fun.

[@scottywaller9411]

Really enjoy your videos, I have a 594 singlecut wood library

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Scotty! I bet it’s a killer guitar!

[@bigdaddystinkeye]

Very nice comparison video. For me, I really like the clarity of the DGT over the 594. Both are great sounding guitars, though. It just comes down to personal choice. Neither is better than the other. Just different.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! Well said - totally agree!

[@giornox114]

My ideal guitar would be a 594 with a trem like the Duesenberg’s take on the Bigsby, cause I do think the TOM play a big part of the sound. Instead of comparing those with traditional classic guitars, I’m interested in a comparison video between the DGT and Suhr Pete Thorn signature model (and why not along with the 594), both were designed for combining the features of a LP and a Strat and shared a lot of similarities. I played both and personally own the Suhr, but never had chance to play them side by side. I see lots of people asking about their differences so it’d be interesting if you do that.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I’ve been curious about a 594 with a trem as well as a Starplayer TV - interesting idea to combine the trem from the latter. That would be an interesting comparison and I’d love to try Pete’s guitar. I love the black with red back. If I ever have access to one, I’ll see what I can do!

[@cmonsterz]

Thoroughly enjoyed the video! I think that 594’s tone is more to my liking, but the DGT’s voice is more “clear” in the mix.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Glad to know! I think that’s where I’m netting out as well in terms of my preference.

[@LastTitan297]

I had the best thing happen, got the volume cranked up to enjoy the playing and my wife comes in and goes “oh you’re watching someone, I thought it was you…gosh he plays a lot like you doesn’t he”. Best compliment I’ve had in a while! 😆 DGT is a cracking tool to use, but of the two I feel I can achieve those tones more readily with other guitars - I set up my Music Man Luke III HH and more or less nailed the DGT tones but I just can’t get that 594 feel quite right. It’s got a more of a ‘that sound’ feel about it…I need to go look for one now…dammit John consider my poor wallet before you put these videos out! 😂

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Ha that’s awesome on so many levels! I enjoyed reading that and thanks for sharing! Luke is a killer player. Would love to try his guitar. Noted about the wallet! It can be an expensive hobby can’t it? 😁. I like to rationalize that gear keeps most of its value especially vs other leisure options.

[@GuitarTonePro]

As a very biased and long term owner of a 594 semi-hollow, I love the ability to split only one of the pickups to really give some great options. Also having no treble bleed means you can set your rig up for a great sound on 9 and get a real cutting lead on 10 if the mix gets too dense or you need just that little bit more. In the end they're close enough that I don't think it's really worth having both unless you are a professional musician who gets something different from the more snappy string feel.

[@youKnowWho3311]

Just a bit sharper tone from the DGT due to all the metal in the bridge and scale. Some days I love the longer scale length, some days I want ease of play. We really do live in exceptional times for instruments. Beautiful video visually and audibly. MY 513 serves the multi tool role in my boat.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! That all resonates with me and indeed, so many amazing options today!

[@Brykk]

On the hendrix split coil example, i really think the 594 came a bit closer to the strat style sound. I wound up putting a push/pull treble bleed on the neck pickup of my 594. It really makes for some awesome sound variations. I like the trem of the dgt, but the 594 has everything else. The 594 really is my dream guitar. I got the blue double cut and im ecstatic to have it. Thanks for the great video.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks! I’d love to try a treble bleed on the neck of my 594. A few folks have commented about having great success with that. Thanks for sharing!

[@GoofieNewfie]

as an owner of a 594, and cs strat, they are not comparable in sound whatsoever. If anything my DGT split is closer to a strat on mine. But each guitar sounds a little different so....

[@Brykk]

@@GoofieNewfie i will say i have noticed some pretty major differences in se pickups on the 594’s. The tonal differences on some of them is huge.

[@drewbarries]

Loved the DGT for overall versatility, the 594 really moved me more on the cleaner stuff.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the comments, Drew. I find the DGT versatility is tough to beat.

[@KyleCastroTheDrummerBoy090613]

Great sharing and awesome review my dear friend!! Love and respect Kyle!! 😊🥁🇵🇭

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks so much as always!

[@TS-nb9ko]

Very nice. beautiful guitars both of them.sound great

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Many thanks!!

[@Guitarooster52]

Would like to hear DGT in coil split compared to P90 Les Paul and also Gretsch. Thanks for the excellent video.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

My pleasure! Those would be helpful comparisons indeed! I don’t have a p-90 LP at the moment, but do have Novo equipped with p-90’s.

[@CMS069]

Beautiful guitars and playing

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, Christopher!

[@2000bhoy]

Hi Johnny, Both fantastic guitars but on my crappy computer speakers there were a couple of minor tonal differences, mostly where the treble bleed circuit in the DGT retained a bit more high end where the 594 had a bit more "thickness" to the sound. I also think that the single push-pull pot on the DGT would be easier to deal with even though it doesn't offer the same number of tonal variations and i have never understood why more guitar manufacturers don't use push-push pots. (I was brought up on Yamaha SGs.) I think it is unfair to try to compare the single coil sounds on either of these guitars to a Strat, which is a completely different beast in construction and tonality but is, ultimately, the industry standard for single coil sounds. My personal preference between these two guitars is purely cosmetic since i always visually prefer bound fingerboards, which affect the tonality in no way whatsoever, and, if i owned either, i feel i would never need another guitar. (Did i really say that?) One thing i did notice, however, was that the pickup selector switch on the DGT had a slight crackle which you may need to get sorted before you give it back to your Dad. Thoroughly enjoyable video as always, and looking forward to more content. Much respect from Scotland!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the comments, Steve! I laughed when I read, "did I really say that", in regards to never needing another guitar. It's seldom a matter of need is it? 😀. I agree that comparing to a Stratocaster would be unfair. I thought it would be fun thought because many say you can get strat-like or tele-like sounds from it. I think that's true relative to what a LP could do by comparison, but in in reality, not really that close. But that's why we "need" more than one guitar. Great catch about the noise. I'll have to look into that. Take care!

[@akuakumc]

Great video, thank you! Two fantastic guitars, fantastic player and very nice riffs. At this level the preference might go to the feeling while playing, the neck profile, etc. If I had one of the two I’d be happy without the need for the other one, your 594 sounds sweeter than that DGT but the clarity the DGT retains is remarkable. Not two guitars sound the same also within the same model, your 594 seems a really good one. keep the 594 and put the treble bleed there. For me the 594 has a too fat neck, that’s why I do not have one.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Wow - thank you! Thanks for the observations and well said. I like that suggestion of putting a treble bleed on the 594.

[@skeeterman7144]

Please do a video demonstrating your technique with DGT volume staging controls.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Noted - will do!

[@garyslash7552]

Two great guitars in the hands of a fantastic player

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the kind words, Gary - much appreciated!

[@teedzay]

I am hearing every rose has its torn on the solo part. nice! 🤘🏻🤘🏻

[@GoofieNewfie]

I own both as well. But when I started your video, I was just looking away from the TV and not really paying attention. But the first few notes on that DGT....wow. So I sat down and restarted the video, and while both guitars are gorgeous. The DGT is my choice based on your sound here. Which sort of reflects my own guitars as I find the 58/15 muddy. The DGT has more usable split tones too and the neck is far more comfortable to my hands as the vintage neck is too chunky. I've played quite a few 594's and the variation on the necks are noticeable, whereas the DGT's are basically the pattern regular. Very nice tone on both, and your playing is quite nice.

[@GoofieNewfie]

Oh, and just put 10's on the DGT

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the reflections and compliment! I do find the 594 to be warm (or muddy) and never run the tone control less than 10 for that reason.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Done! I like it much better that way 👍

[@JamesMurphyProducer]

I own a 594, and I would absolutely buy a DGT… In fact, I would buy your dad‘s in a heartbeat, that finish and top are absolutely perfect

[@paisteplayer1040]

The DGT , which I have a Core model is born from the McCarty's and when you play them back to back its clear.. Both are cream of the crop you really cant go wrong with either.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Agree!

[@Genjokoan]

I seem to be a little late to the DGT praise fest as I had just this week thought I should find a gold top. So here I am looking for some sound bites to push my decision process to speed up. Late as in wow, the supply chain sure dried up lately. You have two magnificent examples here. The flame on the 594 had me doing a double-take. But today's topic is tone. It is fair to say that in general my ears here felt the DGT was warmer and the 594 was brighter. In isolation I have liked other DGT samples I have listened to this week. But next to the 594 I feel like it was not as flat across the spectrum as I had been telling myself. Mids were great, no they were GREAT (on both) but I hear the lows and highs lose clarity on the DGT. The 594 was more uniform, maintaining more articulation on both ends. The highs on the 594 were particularly clear and bright, maybe even chimey, in a good way. Nicely done. I appreciate it. If I may ask, for future it would help my ears to have a couple more bars of each example as you cycle through the settings.

[@jackflynn8616]

Glad to see another vid! Question: I know your 594 is a Private Stock, but does it have TCI pickups, as those really are articulate for effects and notes, etc. If you do have TCIs in the 594, thats an entirely new variable, so I’m wondering if it’s a fair comparison with the older DGT. In my opinion, and because I own a core 594 with non-TCI 58/15 LTs I don’t hear a whole lotta change when splitting. Beautiful guitars and playing as always, Johnny.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Jack! My 594 has the TCI pickups. Do they do TCI version of the DGT pickups? If so, I'd love to check those out as I'm a fan of both pickup sets.

[@jackflynn8616]

As far as I know, everything core and above all goes through the TCI process. I believe October of 2020 or so is when he introduced TCIs through the 594, and they then decided all pickups would go through the process. I would love to buy some and swap them out for my regular 58/15 LTs. I know what you mean by an airy sound. I was watching Marty Schwartz and he compared a core 594 to an S2 594 (I don’t think either were TCI), and a comment said the S2 sounds really good like the core, but like it has a wet blanket on it. That’s kind of like TCI and before TCI. Glad you kept the DC 594!

[@jimcastaneda]

Good review!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Jim!

[@antoniomonteiro1203]

I have a 594 so this comparison is very interesting. I always feel these LT pickups are a bit too thin sounding for my taste and my playing. The DGT has a more bodier tone, which I enjoy more. I'm thinking about changing these pickups...

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Sounds like the DGT pickups would suit your taste well!

[@joegearing1745]

I have a 2013 DGT as well, and I adore it. I don't have any other PRS's to compare it to, but I have lots of others and it's spectacular. Great playing, very nice guitars, both of them. Can't remember if you mention it in the vid, but the DGT's coil splits 70%, so it's still 30% humbucker.

[@paisteplayer1040]

No doubt you skills adds to these masterpieces.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you for the kind words!

[@paisteplayer1040]

@@RatherBeRiffing You have put in the time to be where you are and should be proud of yourself...

[@francisj9232]

GREAT i love the DGT Yours is rather light or heavy (close to a les pauls) I've seen DGTs at 7.34 lbs and 8.3 lbs but I don't know if that has any impact on the sound Keep it up it's great

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank, Francis - will do! Mine is under 8 pounds. Not sure how that affects the sound either. Rock on!

[@francisj9232]

@@RatherBeRiffing thanks 🤘

[@ampgent]

I’ve had both models and kept the DGT in the lineup. But it really is splitting hairs. I just have a preference for the DGT neck profile

[@GoofieNewfie]

have both, kept both but if one had to go it would be the 594.

[@coleslawyum]

I believe you’re right in terms of 594 owners being Gibson players. I never thought of myself as a Gibson player, but I do prefer the warm cream tone of a Gibson. I never fell in love with the PRS tone, but when the 594 came out I had to get one. If I’m looking for that spanky high end tone I’ll just reach for one of my Fenders.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Well said - I relate!

[@eblue9620]

I have a 594 which has a warm tone, and a custom 24 which is bright, I ordered a DGT SE because it seems to sit in the middle of those 2 tones

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Nice! I can see that.

[@danieltoo2008]

Ciol, really enjoy and pickup tips from your jam seesiins and comparison. Definitely will get a DGT and 594 for my collection. Fo you have course or master class? TQ Dantoo

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Not yet but it is one of my goals to offer courses.

[@paisteplayer1040]

If you get a chance do a comparison of a McCarty with the 85/15 tm or the regular 85/15 pickups.. They have much more bite, teeth and cut like burst buckers do. I have all 3 types and the difference is clear.. The lt was not born to cut, but to perfectly replicate a 59 paf, they dont have the cut of modern higher output pickups. As always, great work keep rocking.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I did not know that - very helpful and thanks for sharing!

[@jospoortman9915]

you know what, those split coil neck sounds are really 'bell' and 'tube' like fairly similar to an actual single coil neck pickup! Also, they way you compare guitars is really insightful and clever, thanks for your work. Quick question, these PRS guitars are around 4k in price. Do you reckon the more budget PRS SE models such as for instance the SE DGT or the SE Custom 24 or SE CE 24 would have similarly convincing coil spits?

[@gabrielfiedler5550]

Great comparison and your tones are wonderful. What amps and pedals and signal chain did you use?

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, Gabriel! I’ll have to make a video on that as it’s a lot to explain in comment, but it’s basically a stereo rig with two blackface style amps, a Vemuram Jan Ray, and typically a halo delay. Rock on!

[@thereallbking]

You literally have the most beautiful guitars on earth!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks! I’m a sucker for beautiful guitars (but they have to play and sound great too!)

[@CargoShorts7]

Great video and playing man! I've been a strat player for most of my playing years, then I added a tele and now I'm looking to get something that is a bit more predictable for gigging. Although I think I'd be extremely happy with either one of these, which one would you recommend? Cheers!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the kind words! The DGT will give a little better Fender tone approximation than the 594 in split coil mode. Both cover Les Paul territory, with the 594 hacking a bit more vintage character. The feel is quite different with the longer scale length and narrower on the DGT, which come to think of it, is more Fender like too. Cheers!

[@theanalyst1054]

What ever it is I am in love ❤️ with Prs 594.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Me too!

[@ioannisstavropoulos4319]

Your playing is gold John. After a while who cares about these (trully amazing) guitars. Stellar playing and sound. By the way what amp or plug in do you use?

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, loannis! I appreciate the sentiment. I'm using a Two Rock and Blankenship Twinplex (Fender preamp with Marshall power amp). Since I have to play/record silently, I use Suhr reactive loads with OwnHammer impulse respones.

[@gtrmusic69]

In the section that starts at 8:58 the DGT has that typical PRS noise when you switch any button at all. Whether it's the pickup selector or the split coil. Listen to the little clicks as you do that. This sound isn't there in the 594, except when you go back to the front pickup in single coil mode. It's almost fully quiet. Using contact spray usually doesn't help with this. It's a PRS thing on waaaayyy too many of their guitars. This sometimes gets out of hand with distortion. In the clip that starts at 11:22 the single coil sound in the DGT doesn't have the hum and is much more quiet.

[@richnoble6315]

Loved the DGT, sounded rounder

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I like that about it too!

[@JackroyLi]

Great tone, touch and phrasing. Do you mind to share the gear you record the guitar?

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! Main chain is a Two Rock Bloomfield drive and Blankenship Twinplex in stereo into two Suhr reactive loads with Friedman 4x12 impulse responses. The low gain tones are from a Vemuram Jan Ray. Solo tone is a Vemuram TSV-808 stacked with Xotic Soul Driven. I made a more detailed video on this here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gHzdeqB-ab2sa80

[@JackroyLi]

@@RatherBeRiffing Thanks for sharing man. What audio interface you use? Do you also use external AD/DA?

[@robertjones4823]

I would love the dgt pickups in the 594

[@RatherBeRiffing]

That is a cool idea!

[@dirtboxsam5687]

Do you do any lesson videos? Your playing is superb!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! Not yet, but plan on it eventually.

[@dirtboxsam5687]

@@RatherBeRiffing Will be watching, definitely want to "borrow" some of you stuff..😛😁🎸

[@sirzee75]

Your videos are stunning . Definitely interested in tuition style videos if you decide to go with them.

[@joedean3263]

I have a lot of prs chasing the sound of a strat neck. A 513, DGT, and a Studio. You would think the 513 would be closest but the Studio gets there. To be honest on any of them all I truly hear is a volume drop if I have the volume knob 100% open. When I drop the volume to 75% the Stufio actually sound most like a single coil. I keep wondering why I play anything else other than my SVL.

[@mattz1686]

They're both amazing. I felt the DGT did better with the first part of the intro, sounded more like...slinky? I say if you have the $$$$$$$, get both. And then get a Tremonti for all the high gain stuff!!!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the comments, Matt! I wrote the opening on the DGT and tend to prefer the sound of the guitar I wrote the part on for whatever reason if that makes sense. Love to try a Tremonti! I randomly met him in a Guitar Center way back in the day and was a super nice guy.

[@Squall6575]

from my experience, I found Mccarty to have a fatter sound especially on the higher gain stages. DGT was a bit more clear. As for split coil sounds, I think they both had great clarity and usability. Hard to pick between the two, but push comes to shove, I would prefer the McCarty, they had a bit more snap and clarity when you did the A/B around 11:30. Both are great honestly and Im heavily considering one of the two as my next acquisition. Will have to play both, but have a feeling that the scale length of the 594 might be the deciding factor.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the observations, Affan! Indeed a tough choice as they are both great. I definitely encourage to play both as you said because they play very differently. Neck is also a tad narrower and shallower on the DGT.

[@sbrave]

I wish they made the SE DGT's in more of these colors, even with veneers

[@RatherBeRiffing]

That would be awesome!

[@azizaziz7007]

please do a comparison video on DGT SE and core.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I’d love to. I might be able to borrow one. Let’s see.

[@colinjames7765]

Just do a 50s wiring mod to the 594. It'll do what the treble bleed does and will make it react like a CS Les Paul. Also how did you feel about the different neck profiles with the DGT neck being narrower and larger frets and the 594 wider/thicker asymmetrical with smaller(vintage) frets. Did you prefer one over the other and did either of them inspire you to play differently based on the design of the neck/frets?

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the suggestion! I assumed the 594 was 50’s wiring but come to think of it now, it doesn’t seem to behave that way. The necks are so different as you outlined. I prefer the 594 as the 1 11/16 nut width feels more like home to me and I love asymmetric carves. That said, I find the more time I spend with any particular guitar, it starts to feel like home as I adapt my playing to it.

[@YouTubeHandlesAreMoronic]

Listening through decent open back headphones, I was a bit surprised that I prefer the DGT. The DGT seemed more balanced across the frequency spectrum, with sweeter treble and more controlled bass. In comparison, the 594 seemed to have a slight "smiley face" EQ curve, with boomier bass and more piercing, almost harsh, highs. As for looks, both guitars are stunningly beautiful, but, as an admirer of the "Soil" Stradivarius, I lean toward the 594 with its outrageous descending flame.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the comments! I too expected to prefer the 594 but the DGT sounds fantastic. I really love the pickups.

[@GeorgeAmodei21]

I'll be in STUDIO to listen ...and Laptop RN. I do hear differences but don't wan to comment until I hear it on quality Equipment. Both Sound Great as of the=is moment. THX George

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Cool - thanks, George - curious what you pick up up on listening in the studio!

[@GeorgeAmodei21]

@@RatherBeRiffing I’ll use both my Near field’s & Dt 1990’s Byer’s

[@GeorgeAmodei21]

@@RatherBeRiffing I’m SOOO sorry! I can into Studio and noticed that I had to do a FULL Back-Up from Time-Machine. ( long process).

[@GeorgeAmodei21]

Sorry again, I’m @ APPLE Store reinstalling Mac OS 😬plus have lots to do after I get it back in Studio. ( I’ll comment using Headphones only) 🙏👍

[@RatherBeRiffing]

@@GeorgeAmodei21 No worries, George! Best of luck sorting all that out. I know how much a pain it can be!

[@user-ek9nx2jn7r]

I like the sound of both guitars but the 594 is definitely more Gibson sounding. I have a 61 reissue SG which I love the sound of. But I think I would buy the DGT because of it’s different sound.

[@Zlofengir]

Looking at the headstock, the 594 appears to be a Private Stock… I have a Wood Library 594, which is as close to custom shop as you’re going to get before getting into the P.S. realm… But I would be interested in knowing the pickup heights of both guitars.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Both of them are default factory spec, which I’ll try to measure later.

[@Zlofengir]

@@RatherBeRiffing Would also take into consideration the differences in the pickups voicings; DGT p'ups are a hair hotter.

[@user-ev2qo1hj1g]

I think some of the depth on the 594 comes to it being a hard tail. And it looks like it has a brazilian rosewood board on it. It can impact tones in different ways. But those ways are to hard for me to quantify. Did you have the 11s the DGT came with and what gauge were you running on the 594

[@deddiev1718]

My DGT GoldTop with moons is my #1 my 594 is top 5. But my uSA custom Yamaha strat is probably #2

[@darrennwalters5189]

Makes me want to go pick up my 99 McCarty Hollowbody II double ten top with Brazilian board… ugh I should be sleeping lol

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Go play it! Nice specs!