PRS Silver Sky USA Vs SE: Watch Before You Buy!

[@andrefludd]

If you like JM you'll love this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4fcqIOYpdJ6rK8

[@adam_michael540]

I think they nailed what they were going for. There’s endless strat sounds. These sound like vintage 63-65 era strats without having to wait or pay the price tag. Exactly what their mission was. Pretending it’s not a strat is silly. Embracing that it’s a strat with PRS feel and build quality is what people should do.

[@andrefludd]

Agreed!

[@j_freed]

I’d love a video where somebody re-milled and glued the headstock to make it Fender shape.

[@Bellabaddi]

I keep trying to like them…but I don’t. I prefer the mij strats, luckily got a couple before the hype rose their prices. I honestly don’t think 90% of these guitars out there are worth 1/4 of their price tag. Don’t believe me? Look up Jack Pearson! That guy kills…oh yeah, Fuckkk John Mayer!

[@Thebarbariantruckershow]

Oh I wish that was true. I've owned one and tried playing multiple others the quality control of everything was just not there, I found so many flaws with multiple PRS SE silver skies but the other PRS SE editions are way better. If you don't believe me next time you're at the music shop take a business card or credit card and stick it in the neck pocket. Every neck is 1/16th off the size. I went to other brands of equal value and not one did that. I guess it's hit or miss.

[@ShamanicSavant]

If it doesn't say Fender on it, it's not a strat. "Stratocaster" is a registered trademark and it was registered to Fender, not PRS :)

[@RiffChord]

I’ve been playing since the 70’s and amazed at the quality of todays under 1k guitars. Your honesty is refreshing and rare in todays social media

[@andrefludd]

UPDATES: 1) I grew up a pretty big John Mayer fan, especially Continuum and everything that came before it. When I was 16, if I had the money to buy the USA version, I would totally choose it over a different $2,7000 strat solely for the fact that it's John Mayer. Sometimes, I forget that people often buy gear of their favorite guitar players. Nothing wrong with that! In fact, I'm considering buying a Jeff Beck strat for that exact reason. 2) I was wrong in my assumptions. About 75 - 80% were able to guess the right guitar. That being said, I think if I added some eq, I could make them identical. And without the A/B test, or with them in a mix, I doubt anyone would notice or care. Nonetheless, you all have some amazing ears.

[@micemr76]

I've always wanted a David Gilmore strat for the same reason 😊

[@garycoates4987]

I have played a Jeff Beck strat, never owned one great sounding guitars ,Beck likes a chunky guitar neck too. I'd even say the old versions with lace pickups are killer guitars

[@therealone1288]

For me it would be the billy Corgan strat but they don't pop up. Often any more

[@norseman61]

I kind of did the opposite. I bought a Schecter Nick Johnston “Strat”, having never heard of Nick Johnston prior to that. I love Strats, I love Schecter’s quality and price, and I love the specs of the Nick Johnston model…. especially the 2-knob arrangement that gets that dang volume knob out of the way!

[@josephlerz6889]

The colours on the U.S. version are better than the SE's, but I don't truthfully think the SE colours are that bad, During the sound test I preferred A actually over B on all samples, but despite that, the difference of price for something minimally better is not worth it, Unless you want the visual of the colour finish and better headstock badge plate, Paying $3,000 dollars more for something so similar but minimally better, is absolutely not worth it, the SE is far better value, Also like the satin neck and slimmer neck profile

[@erickmo1188]

Quickly becoming one of my fav guitar content pages. Keep it up man. These vids are high quality

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :)

[@yellowdog2181]

I don’t even play guitar and I watch his videos due to the way he orates information, though I’m a huge fan of music and I like to see people who have passion for certain subjects

[@angellovesjazz]

if I'm spending over $2,000 it's going to look better than basic. I like pretty designs 🤣

[@andrefludd]

me too! I wanted the nicer bird inlays. Maybe better paint jobs too.

[@maxwellblakely7952]

Trouble is, for a US made guitar, it’s starting to feel like $2K is almost bare bones now. An American standard Strat (no frills) will set you back $2K. If you want something baller you’re looking like $4K to $5K on up. Seems pretty ridiculous too me.

[@papaidolatrine2499]

2eechizone

[@Rockandrollgeerage]

Definitely a Strat Style guitar, but I think it is a much improved Strat. I love the look with that added PRS touch at the top of the body. I bought the SE version and love the neck better than any other Strat neck. I can't put this thing down.

[@j_freed]

@@maxwellblakely7952 $2500 used to get you close to a used Gibson Les Paul R7, a neck glued and carved top guitar, not a few pieces of flat CNC wood assembled in minutes using a few screws.

[@jamesmarkham7489]

Great review and an honest comparison. Im actually seeing the se version going for $650 now on reverb. Absolute value compared to mim strats.

[@andrefludd]

Agreed but I did grow up with a mim strat

[@rickydossantosjr5840]

I just got my PRS SS Se for $400 brand new. Wanted a fender but couldn’t pass up that deal

[@jarinsmith7827]

@@rickydossantosjr5840 Whoa! Where did you find a deal like that?

[@gdawgs101]

One thing with the strat is availability of parts and modability. Everybody and their mom makes drop in replacement parts for strat. Wanna change the sound and look? Drop in a loaded pick guard, wire it up and you're ready to go. Want to upgrade to locking tuners? There are tons of drop-in options that require no additional routing. Do you like your strat but the neck doesn't feel quite right. There are TONS of replacements at various price points with different specs that will be a perfect fit for the neck pocket and will intonate correctly without any additional work. On the SE Silver Sky: want to upgrade to locking tuners? Hope you like the PRS ones, or else you're gonna be routing/drilling holes. You like the feel of the neck profile but wish it had a flatter radius? You're gonna have to live with the 1 neck that PRS offers or take it to a luthier and have them plane the fretboard. You get the picture

[@jperryfan]

Paid $500 on FB Marketplace for the SE. Great guitar. Very happy!

[@FelipeHernandezCA]

I appreciate your honesty! It’s so refreshing. I love strats and have considered the PRS Silver Sky. But for $2700, I think most can find a used Fender custom shop strat which are awesome and quite special (harder to find but they exist). Or for that money one can get lots of other guitars. Great review! New subscriber after watching it. Well done.

[@andrefludd]

Thank you! I totally agree. A used fender custom shop would be a great option

[@kuyaemil2077]

Thank you for being honest. And Oh man, its such a relief to hear someone else say that they're basically stratocasters, I thought I was alone in thinking that. That's exactly how I felt when I tried that SE, it felt and sounded like a strat. and since I already have a couple nice strats, I didn't feel the need to get different looking one that sounds identical to my fenders.

[@andrefludd]

They really are haha.

[@micemr76]

I think, everything taken into consideration, I'd sell a strat and buy an SE. The QC is better, and you actually get what your paying for. The US made are doing exactly what fender does and that's have u pay up for a name brand as much as what it's actually worth to you or I. Now that's just me and I'm only one guy. But I'd prefer an SE over a fender, don't care what country it's made in. Until u get to the custom shop level it does not make a 300% difference going from mim to mia, or mii to mia

[@markuyehara7880]

The SS and Strat don't feel anything alike to me. I find Strats fairly uncomfortable. I can identify a SS just by putting my arm over it because it won't jab me.

[@gdawgs101]

​@@micemr76 I agree with you but there are a few sticking points that keep me from switching sides: First I hate the headstock. I'm not in love with the regular PRS headstock to begin with, but the reverse headstock looks particularly strange to me on this one, and I generally like reverse headstocks. Also the 3 + 3 tuner orientation vs 6 in a line may seem insignificant, but it genuinely does change the feel of the guitar and negativity impacts tuning stability on the G string in my experience. Also wish the headstock was straight instead of angled. Beyond the fact angled headstocks are far more prone to snapping, the increased break angle can introduce additional friction at the nut. Also the fretboard radius... Why would they not offer a 9.5 in radius option??? If John prefers a vintage 7.25 radius, that's cool, I get it. But for the mass-market version, aimed at the modern musician, why would you only offer vintage radius? The vintage strat purists are likely never going to opt for a SS over a Fender anyways. Why wouldn't you cater to your own fanbase and keep the 10 in radius as an option? Also I don't live the birds... I guess I really just wish I could have a SS with a Fender neck

[@murphvienna1]

The B Pickups have a little less clarity, but a bit more body. But the difference A to B, in my opinion, could also be "before/after Amp finetuning", or "before/after pickup height adjustment". They are really close to each other, in my ears.

[@andrefludd]

mine too!

[@ERMAV]

Not your typical response for a guitar review video… the thing that struck me the most about this review, the lighting!!! Bang up job dood! Each guitar having its own unique vibe to hang out in, the golden hues making your skin tones shine… everything is super vibrant and glowing!! The review speaks for itself great job comparing the two with no monetary influence:) I’ll be coming back for more!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :)! I do really appreciate your comment. I make these videos with a cheap camera in an old ugly basement. Since I don't have the gear of the big channels, I do my best to make it a little interesting.

[@rick00770]

IV been wanting the SE version for months, finally got one. Brought me back to the strat world, love the tones. I'm having to adjust the string height. Thanks for your in depth review. I can't afford the USA version. Just happy with the SE for now. IV played since 1966 top 20 cover stuff , just copied anything I could. Like blues , thanks brother. Have to say ,your review is spot on. Much appreciated. I enjoy my SE more now because of it.

[@Texian78]

Extremely well thought out review. You Described the nuances of each guitar in great detail. Much appreciated! Love the videos.

[@the_armada5579]

There was a very noticeable difference between the two guitars. I love blindfold tests. I picked A sounding better immediately, however I found the middle pickup on B to sound better. Just interesting to note

[@andrefludd]

Def interesting

[@efraincontreras1645]

Reached the end and I conclude the same as you !, getting the SE the next week and I was trying to convince myself.

[@MrJvieira72]

Great review. This is a better take than anyone else. I feel like nobody has been honest enough about this guitar.

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :)

[@darryllodato1414]

Excellent review, thanks! I have a PRS Custom 24 SE, am interested in the SIlver Sky...probably the SE. Your review helped.

[@xenophonkirby]

I love these honest reviews. Keep them coming Andre. I have the core Sliver Sky with a MAPLE neck. That's the key for me. The SE doesn't come with a maple neck. I much prefer that maple-feel over rosewood or ebony. Also, the thicker neck just fits into my palm nicely and feels awesome for days! (Disclaimer: I bought the core before the SE existed).

[@andrefludd]

I also like thicker necks

[@jihunlee9316]

But here comes SE version which with maple neck!

[@dreamspheree]

You've gotten so fluent in the videos! So cool to follow you and see you get better 😊

[@andrefludd]

The funny thing is, when I recorded this video I was absolutely exhausted. It was like 5:00am and I hadn’t slept in a couple of days. I think maybe the sleepiness didn’t give me the ability to over think.

[@dreamspheree]

@@andrefludd the problem start when we think too much 😭🤣

[@Fugettaboutit]

Kudos to PRS for making the SE versions so good.

[@andrefludd]

Agreed!

[@Stringprodigy]

they aren’t that good actually

[@Fugettaboutit]

@@Stringprodigy really? Too bad. I prefer classic Fenders anyway, but I welcome quality instruments from anyone.

[@Stringprodigy]

@@Fugettaboutit they aren’t quality though. many players have reported quality control issues with these guitars and for around the same price you can get a higher quality Fender.

[@Fugettaboutit]

@@Stringprodigy Got it, too bad. I've checked out other 'SE series' PRS's before and they seem solid for the money, almost got a semi-hollow years back.

[@predigr]

Great and honest review, thank you a lot. I agree a lot with your analysis. To me there are a few key points: 1) Look. Although the USA version is not particularly incredible, the SE version looks so cheap. The colors look like a 150€ guitar. If Aesthetics is important to you, that is a key point. 2) Finish. The finishe details is what makes a guitar more expensive. USA has better finishes and you can notice. 3) Neck radius. A lot of people that might be interested in these guitars may be particularly interested in the classic 7.25" radius of Fender Strats. The USA SS could be one one the better 7.25" necks you can found in the world. Better than a Fender one since we all know Fender QC issues. 4) Neck dimension. Again, big chunk is what old Fenders used and you have it in the USA SS. I agree that sound is something so opinionated and these two sound very similar, so I would not make a point of it. However, some people say that when you add a bit of gain to the sound the SE compression is more noticeable.

[@isaiahj117]

I tried the SE Silver Sky at GC today. It's an amazing guitar. The satin finished neck is perfect. I know that the SE version neck is fatter compare to the USA made PRS but the SE Silver Sky is not as fatter as other SE guitar, instead it feel comfortable. The only upgrade need to do just swap the tuner to the SE locking tuner.

[@georgeargon5113]

You confused the model and thickness. The SE Silver Sky is thinner and more generic in keeping with guitars at this price point. The PRS Silver Sky (expensive version) is thicker. Rewatch the video, timestamp 03:13 onward.

[@tomolewine5743]

The SE definitely has a thicker neck than the core, I own both. If I'm being totally honest, I prefer the SE on all counts.

[@mattyq9130]

I do really appreciate your review, insights and honesty. I own an SE and I will say it's every bit as comfy to play and probably encourages me to play guitar more than my Strats do, currently anyway....

[@Stef140]

I don't have a Silversky but I do have a PRS SE. It's so well built that I don't see a single reason that could make a USA version of it 3 times more expensive. Also, pickups sounded exactly the same, and that's with me fully paying attention to every nuance, meaning there's not a single way anyone can hear a difference in a mix.

[@andrefludd]

No way you’d hear it in a mix that’s for sure

[@CKS64]

Thanks!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you!

[@1scooterpilot1]

I own both the Silver Sky SE and the Silver Sky made in America. First, let me say you did a great job in the compare and contrast of the two instruments. The PRS Silver Sky has a solid alder body. The PRS SE Silver Sky has a solid poplar body. The two differences for me is the American version has the 7.5 radius vs the 8.5 on the SE. I like the 7.5! The second is the finish on the neck: The PRS Silver Sky has a gloss polyester (body), clear nitrocellulose (neck) finish. The PRS SE Silver Sky is painted with a gloss polyester (body), satin (neck) finish. The feel of the SE neck is nice for me because it has a satin finish but I prefer the fatter American neck with the 7.5 radius. The voicing on both are great and a matter of personal preference. The best of both worlds for me would be to have the American Silver Sky with a satin finish neck. Hope this makes sense.

[@andrefludd]

Yep! Makes a lot of sense. Thanks for sharing. What color is your usa? I feel like they should have better colors for the price

[@1scooterpilot1]

@@andrefludd It's white and with age hopefully it will yellow a bit. Time will tell.

[@bobbyarthur8809]

Interesting as my maple neck usa silver sky has a nitro body .. sure of that as i gave it a minor wound … and see the wear under my arm yet early days and still looks complete … what i kinda don’t care but did find annoying is the shoulder on fretboard … nitro wear was fast and top and bottom 1-22 almost you can see soiling marks from hand wear … that was quite a bit faster than I expected but I accept it as a sign I’m playing it often enough to do that 😉

[@mikec3454]

Good perspective you shared owning both. Personally, I think 98% of guitar players wouldn’t notice the slightly rounder radius of 7.25 vs 8.5. From 7.25 to 9.5? Yes. I think Andre’s closing remarks are spot on and I said the same thing on another video. PRS has devalued the USA one and made it harder to justify when their SE offering is basically 90% the guitar it’s “trying” to be.

[@DIGITAL7Media]

I’ve been constantly researching what i want my next guitar to be and wanted to try a brand im not very familiar with. Had my eye on a PRS for decades (santana and 311 in the 90s) Definitely going for the SE. having the John Mayer endorsement helps. But your vid gave me that push. And you got a new subscriber. Your candor is appreciated.

[@michaelkhorsandi8623]

My take, the price difference probably can be chalked up to materials (e.g., number of pieces of the body, cut of the wood for the neck) manufacturing labor, scale of production, and snob appeal to a Made in the USA model vs Asian origin). Great to hear your perspective! I recently had a similar experience when considering to “upgrade” my Epiphone Les Paul to a Gibson. I went into the store and spent significant time playing a bunch of LPs. Yes, they were a bit nicer than my current Epiphone, but the differences were not earth shattering. I kept my Epiphone.

[@andrefludd]

Good for you! Epiphone makes some nice stuff. They are def more than “cheap Gibsons” imo.

[@ekisoderqvist]

Very good stuff Andre! Couldn't agree more, for that price difference it's very hard to justify getting the US model over the SE. That said, I was buying a strat a couple months ago and the US silver sky was my favorite after trying the silver sky SE, different fenders, squiers, sterlings, Ibanez az, etc etc... I think there's a larger issue here. We find a lot of cheaper guitars in the under 1k price point like the SE line, sire or even jet that are either close enough as is, or can easily be modded to be close enough in playability and tone to guitars that cost 2-3k. There's extreme examples like the jet js400 that goes for 200€ and imo with new pups and pots you can bring it on stage or in the studio with zero shame and get 95% of what you would with a US silver sky or equivalent fender. It's getting harder and harder to justify spending that extra money, unless you can afford to and of course it's always good to support fair labor conditions

[@joejohnson8966]

Appreciate your dedication to your work more than you'll ever know. Love the SE version. Also, yes. The rambles always pay off and it's a main part of why we're here.

[@andrefludd]

I appreciate you more than you know! It’s the loyal viewers that keep this channel afloat.

[@joejohnson8966]

@@andrefludd Thank you so much.

[@billyclub56]

I have 2 beautiful American Strats, 82 hardtail & a 98 Standard. I'm happy, don't need Bird inlays!! Great review!!!

[@andrefludd]

Good choice!

[@anotherstart1]

I’ve had both, I give them high praise but nothing can beat the original Fender Stratocaster.

[@andrefludd]

Fair enough

[@easye9-21]

I disagree. There's plenty of smaller companies that build a strat as good or better than Fender. K-Line, Danocaster, even Suhr build Custom Shop quality guitars.

[@lazvt8469]

My LSL Saticoy smokes all four of the MIA's I've owned... pups alone could be the biggest difference. Fender necks are indeed wonderful. Fender stocks pups are so-so....

[@donross8725]

Appreciate the candor, thank you. I watched your review and many others. Listened to demos and most important, I played both. I agree, as a life long Strat player for more than 30 years, these are strats. They maintain both the most important traditional aspects in appearance and sound, but for the price, they are both very good strats. Better than the “F” ones I have played except for custom shop, but these beat the production models of any other Strat style guitar. One thing, I do love the heel truss rods in the Charvels. Schecter have that but they are all slim necks. I preferred the wider frets, and I would rather spend the money on other guitars, so I bout the SE rosewood. I have no regrets. Mine, too, had high action from the factory and shop. I adjust all my guitars to my preferred set up so I didn’t care about this. Think about this: with the difference in price, I bought a hand-wired 27 watt boutique tube amp. Now that felt very, very good because the Silver Sky sounds sublime through the new rig. 😊

[@travissimpson7829]

Love your reviews Andre. It's so rare to find an honest reviewer on KZbin nowadays.

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :)

[@sandyfader4649]

I am buying that exact American pink model as a gift for my son’s birthday. He is going to be thrilled. He is in it for the long haul, so am banking on durability and quality of workmanship to justify the cost. Cool video.

[@mbuby7]

Nowadays we can have great guitars between $600 and $1000. I've tested some great Schecters around this price. But depending of the niche, players are forced by this specific community to use expensive gear. Congrats for your channel. Cheers from NJ.

[@andrefludd]

NJ!

[@raycote5621]

Sold me. Just ordered a new SE off Reverb and very much looking forward to getting it. Thanks for the honest review!

[@nathankeene2551]

At the PRS USA price point, you’re absolutely right that there are so many other brands offering boutique strat-style guitars at a very similar, if not more competitive, price point. I feel like you’d either have to fall in love with the neck to justify it, although the strong resale value of the silver sky also probably attracts buyers!

[@andrefludd]

Also the John Mayer thing. I’m a big fan of his early stuff. If I was 17 and rich, I’d totally choose his USA model over a different boutique guitar. I wish I remembered to mention this point in the video

[@lestattt100]

Exactly the video I needed to see. I wasn't sure on the actual differences between the two. Been playing for 40 years and I do own a couple of 2800$ guitars already so I really wasn't excited to spend another 2600 for a new guitar. IMO both guitars sounded very similar in sound/ tone, so close that a few tweaks on the EQ would make them even more comparable. I was looking for an all around great guitar that's reasonably cheap that I can take anywhere, camping, front yard, couch, tailgate, church ect, and not worry about dings and scratches so much. In fact I may even take a whool wheel to some areas and just relic it here and there to make it look even more warn, I just like that look. If I take my Les Paul anyplace I'm constantly concerned about my guitars safety at all times, I don't like the anxiety of guarding the queen when I just want to jam. With all that being said I personally I prefer a thinner neck so this absolutely works in my favor, I would choose the SE strat in a heartbeat. Now the last issue.... What color???? Thank you for the informational video.😊

[@marziograva]

Very honest and fair review, Andre. I have the same exact impressions - so you saved me some time in doing a review myself :) Thanks a lot for the great content. Cheers from Spain!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you! I hope to visit Spain one day. Beautiful country.

[@patcaza6166]

sorry I'm a bit late but, man oh man, I knew it, you're totally the best guy for these type of reviews, you're not leaving one stone unturned, you're going through all the details and I was so happy when you said you were going to compare those two beasts Thanks for the Great job, Andre !

[@andrefludd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@mikedamisch]

You need to try the Yamaha Revstar Standard. Best value of any guitar right now in my opinion. So blown away by mine, it has become my main guitar even though I have a lot of more expensive guitars.

[@andrefludd]

It’s on the list for 2023! Someone recommends it almost every day haha that says a lot to me

[@mikedamisch]

@@andrefludd cool. Thanks for great content as well. And I do agree that sound samples doesn’t say much on you tube. I watch your channel and reviews even when the guitars are not really something I would buy myself. Also interested in the Strandberg videos. I have a Standard one that I get a long with great.

[@jonkomatsu8192]

Thanks for this suggestion, been wondering about the Revstars, especially the P90 equipped model. 👍🎸

[@micemr76]

Yamahas are the red headed step children of the guitar world. Always overlooked.

[@xenophonkirby]

That Revstar feels like $2000 instrument !

[@ricklodewell6012]

Thank you! I've been thinking about a Strat, but I love the PRS quality, so I've been thinking about a SE version of the Silver Sky. This is really good information.

[@andrefludd]

I think you’ll like it! Great guitar

[@kellyb9432]

Such a big difference when its really your money on the line. It's clear in your expressions - that's your money at risk, not a relationship with a builder you are trying to protect. Regardless of how unbiased paid promoters try to be, there's a degree of bias that cannot be suppressed when someone's income is part of the equation. Thanks for taking the risk Andre!

[@andrefludd]

Someone has to do it haha

[@Chris_mueller]

I agree the SE is phenomenal. I have two custom shop strats and like playing the SE as much.

[@nigelnunes]

I'm surprised PRS haven't roasted the maple necks on either version, esp. given that this is such a commonplace feature across premium strats (LSL, Xotic, Suhr, Anderson) and that it's becoming increasingly standard practice with premium OEM instruments (Sire, Fender, Schecter NJ Series), too. Surely the increased resonance and stability that come with 'roasting' would be welcomed plusses, right?

[@andrefludd]

Me too.

[@seancca]

most of that is because PRS spends so much time drying their woods for guitars. There is probably a little less time at the SE factory but USA model. There is not need they dry them to stability, which is all roasting does but quicker, PRS just chooses to take the time.

[@YouRebelChief]

Just picked up a yellow SE like yours and I love it! I’ve had more expensive American made fenders that left more to be desired. This made me feel like I had a great guitar in my hands. The problem is, I can’t put it down!

[@andrefludd]

Great problem to have! Congrats :)

[@ripwildy2022]

I have a bigger problem with these two guitars - I can't quite understand why one would pick either of them up over an actual Strat (or a partscaster). one of the many wonderful things about a Strat is the versatility that it possesses thanks to its modular design. there is just a insane plethora of aftermarket options that make changing practically any part of a Strat (neck, body, pickups, electronics, etc.) an absolute breeze. heck, you can even change the scale length of your strat by getting a conversion neck. and because of the endless availability of aftermarket options, one could even build a partscaster for around the same price as the SE Silver Sky, with specs and options that can't be found on any of the Silver Skys or even a traditional strat direct from Fender. the very existence of these Silver Skys (other than the fact that it was their way of snagging John Mayer, and the huge marketing boost that resulted thanks to said acquisition) feels like PRS's attempt at reinventing the wheel.

[@andrefludd]

I think it's another good option in the strat world.

[@gaborfarkas9352]

According to your comparative sound samples the I hear the SE version to be a bit more flat and dumped , less chime like sounding, it is most likely not because of pick-up specs differences but due to the cheaper body wood.

[@bogfish9664]

Well said! I do not understand this at all. Here in Australia, they're completely outrageously over priced. You can get an EJ signature for way less. I made the mistake of getting into an online argument with a moron over this on the new light solo clip. I don't get why the 'inspired by' guitar was even thought to be a good business venture for the prs team. If John Mayer had nothing to do with it, we wouldn't be looking at it. It simply wouldn't exist.

[@NicholasJens]

@@bogfish9664lol it was a great business venture. Pretty sure they sold more Silver skys than any other guitar in their lineup. It has been lightning in a bottle that they haven’t been able to recreate with any of their new “inspired by” releases.

[@KevTCC]

Hey thanks for this. I'm a bassplayer with a Dingwall and Bongo and wanting a nice electric guitar to add some spice. Currently going back and forth between the EH Wolfgang and the Silver Sky SE. Was glad to find this video.

[@msi1985]

I'm listening through a phone speaker, so not only did KZbin compression hurt this comparison, my listening devices are also fairly poor. With that being said, there was definitely a noticeable difference on what are some of the middle position and bridge position variations. I tended to like a for most of the middle positions, and I actually like B on the bridge because it was a little less bright.

[@andrefludd]

me too!

[@Jay-fp4ii]

First time viewer and first subscriber, love the honesty of the opinion! This was so refreshing on such a hotly debated topic!

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for the support :)

[@Martin_OK]

I hear a lot of difference. "A" lacks character, sounds a little hollow. "B" is full and deep. Fantasizing what could have cause that tone difference, I'd say that "B" is fuller because of a thicker neck. So my bet is that "B" is the pink strat, because it sounds rich. But I hope I'm wrong :D

[@andrefludd]

Interesting

[@rvarques]

Excellent review Andre! I got the SE after watching this video and also got a Kemper Stage instead of just getting the US Silver Sky. Appreciate your honest review! :D

[@BrandonStreet3]

Good honest review. One large difference to point out that seemed to be overlooked though is the USA is an Alder body as compared to the SE being a Poplar body. Poplar weighing in slightly less. Regardless, Good stuff!

[@TheThreadofLifeInc]

You nailed it. A $1500 guitar that has been overpriced on hype. The S2 lineup are leagues better than the American silver sky. They need to halve the price and then I’d buy one. Also, why are there no wood tones? That price justifies having boutique grain showing.

[@RelicOnMaui]

Was a no-brainer for me. The only mod I consider is replacing the tuners for sealed Gotoh “keystone” buttons. One of the main reasons I bought PRS - nut width is closer to my Martin 000-10e. Fenders feel MUCH narrower. (The temperature/humidity change difference is likely because the SE is thinner profile. It can also be one is slask cut compared to edge-grained “quartersawn”. On unpainted necks , where it’s viewable, I ALWAYS choose the more edge-grained, if more than one is in stock)

[@ChrisLazz97]

17:45 lmfao well put, creds for being straight up about it 😄

[@DeceivingWeasel]

Also in NJ, both my guitars had trouble with this weird transition into winter lol. Great video!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :). Love hearing from NJ folk

[@jwg6113]

Great stuff. I've noticed the editing is getting smoother! Good job!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you for noticing :).

[@thedevilinthecircuit1414]

The 2-post steel vibrato bridge on the SE is the same one as used on the USA-made Fiore (Mark Lettieri signature) guitar. It is an outstanding bridge with an adjustable clutch on the bar that surpasses anything Fender puts on their Strats--save for the Floyd Rose bridge.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for sharing!

[@electrikjam7661]

I went back and forth like this with a Strat Style guitar. The Nick Johnston model. As you know, I play Schecter exclusively. I played the USA version. It is the most perfect Strat style guitar I have EVER played. period. Flat radius? Jumbo frets? Amazing neck? But then I played the import model. And then I played them side by side. The import was $800. The USA was $2900. Same nut. Locking tuners on both. Same neck shape. Similar pickups. Similar trem that stays in tune during dive bombs. I bought the import. It feels like the USA. I would say it feels and sounds about 85% as good as the USA model. Indonesia is putting out some great stuff Andre. I was very surprised.

[@andrefludd]

Agreed 100%. I want to do the same thing again but with the NJ tele. That thing looks so amazing

[@christopherhorton4634]

@@andrefludd If you play that neck, there's no going back. I'm just saying... 😂

[@gregperkins7723]

Thank you thank you!!!!! I have such a dilemma here...bought an SE and then the core (since I loved the SE so much). The core is different and yet the same in so many ways...just as you laid out in the video. My problem is I actually like the SE sound better. It has so much more chime and the neck feels better to me. Smoother and even rounder shoulders. I want the BEST guitar as I can afford either. I think I am selling the core :(

[@GhostofMozart]

I played both EXTENSIVELY in the shop for about a month before buying and I gotta say, every single one of your thoughts are EXACTLY my thoughts. When it comes down to it, IF the USA version was anywhere between $1-500 more, I'd probably make the jump and get the USA version just for the fact that it feels slightly more premium and "feel" is a big deal for me in a guitar... but man for almost $2000 more? I'm sorry but no. I bought the SE version last month and it still feels so good. The maple neck and rosewood fretboard are enough "feel" for me to enjoy playing it all of the time. So yeah, saving $2000 to get basically the same guitar was a great decision for me. (not to mention i found a used SE in almost perfect condition other than a paint blemish on the back, and that brought it down to $600. frikin STEAL of a guitar for $600)

[@jeffmazzei8520]

I’m buying an SE Silver Sky today ! I play Suhr Guitars 🎸 this be a nice change. Thank You for the feedback.

[@andrefludd]

I’m not sure why you’d go from a Suhr to a prs Se haha. That feels like a downgrade. Why not a suhr strat?

[@lalomedina1]

I just ordered the SE, great review!!! Thanks for the information!

[@travislee9662]

I actually guessed right on the sound which would be which because A sounded more "hi fi” and jangly like a strat, but I kind of preferred B the SE model for the slightly warmer strat sound. It seems like it would get you closer to the ballpark of an Eric Johnson sound and more of a jazz sound vs. country twang sounding strat.

[@brandonbryson3317]

One thing I’m grateful for is that I am damn near oblivious to neck shape and size, barring extreme. In general, I can comfortably play any neck. I have Les Pauls with baseball bat necks and Ibanez with wizard necks. No issues…the Ibanez are right on the cusp of hurting my hand after extended play, but not enough for me to dwell on.

[@telezonika-mg]

Thank you for your amazing comparison!

[@tonictonetomrockstar1931]

I love the pickup comparison rant, spot on!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :)

[@Talisk3r]

My SE as the same nut problem. When I use the whammy the some strings remained sharp. But If I bend that string it unstuck it and it get dead back in tune. I agree that it's easily fix with sand paper and a bit a graphite. But one has to be careful because to me the deep of the nut was pretty perfect. So it's easy to make the nut slot too deep with the sandpaper.

[@jonkomatsu8192]

Fully agreed, they are all just Stats. This is the realization that led me to embrace a partscaster my brother had built as a main guitar. Feels great and sounds cool. Thanks for the honest review. Happy weekend to everyone! 🤙🎸🎶

[@andrefludd]

Thanks :)

[@laerciocfh]

Great comparison! Thank you. Thinking on swap my G&L Legacy Tribute to one of these….obviously the SE

[@MrMusicM67]

Probably one of the best comparison videos I saw. Thank you :) For me, the fact that the USA model is essentially what John Mayer uses, that was enough for me. I have been a fan of his forever and that (unfortunately lol ) is what justified my purchase.

[@andrefludd]

I totally get it. I would have did the same when I was a big fan back in the continuum era

[@lptribute7544]

Great conclusion man! One of the best comparison I’ve ever seen between the 2 PRS Silver Sky.

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :)

[@rockinbob]

Great video! Some clarification needed - and this is a VERY important point - you say in the video that the neck depth is 23mm 1st fret SE and 25mm on the Core. Yet I heard John Meyer saying that he specifically asked them to do the exact same neck carve on the SE and this is what they did. So which is it? For me this piece of information would be part of a purchase decision, one way or another.

[@lazvt8469]

Your review is consistent with the many others I've watched. I picked right guitar...."A" sounded a bit more clear...but NOT 3x more clear. I keep watching your channel, didn't realize I never sub'd. Took care of that! Kudos! I'd love a lefty SE....not gonna happen anytime soon.

[@andrefludd]

Man it's rough being a lefty. I am a lefty as well but I play right handed guitar. thanks for the support!

[@lazvt8469]

LEFTIES are here...LEFTIES are here!! But now I'm a Tele fan....already have a boutique Strat...yet...STILL want an SE SS...and I have little to no self control...

[@lazvt8469]

Only took a few weeks for Lefties to go on sale...made an offer, got free PLEK, no tax, no shipping cost....pulled the trigger. LOVE IT. Nice tones on all 5 positions. Keeper!!

[@jonathanficco8384]

Going to be honest you kinda changed my mind. I’m a strat player and I was going to buy the USA silver sky thinking it was a “different strat” and your explanation at the end sold me on looking for something else. I have enough Strats and kinda want to look for something completely different. Thanks for the video.

[@andrefludd]

Glad I could help. I still recommend picking them both up! That will be the best way to tell. Me personally, if I wanted something completely different for around 2700, I'd just get Kiesel to my own spec.

[@swhalen]

I love the way you laid out the comparison and agree with your opinions. Just subscribed because I love somebody not afraid to give an open, honest review.

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :)

[@Tifys69]

Great video! Makes makes me want to try the se! Genuinely appreciate the attention to detail and practical advice eg locking tuners.

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :)

[@hellodrjeckyl]

Phil brought me here. I really liked the video. Thanks for the comparison.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for the support!

[@Fatherflot64]

I've tried used versions of both. I absolutely loved the expensive USA one. It seriously had me thinking of owning a strat-style guitar for the first time in my life. I really wanted to discover in the SE version the same experience for a lot cheaper, but that was not what happened. The SE was good, but not absolute magic like the USA-made version.

[@frankpicha7180]

One of the BEST reviews I've seen! Great job illustrating the differences between the two! Cheers!

[@andrefludd]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@leodb3894]

I think you hit the nail on the head. If I was choosing it would be the SE. I don’t think it’s justifiable getting the American made unless you are either super serious about guitar or a working musician. Even then, the SE would do most of what you need a strat to do in a studio. Whichever you pick you’re going to have a good time though!

[@jimmygrant3151]

I have a lot of humbucker SE guitars coming though the shop for pickup and tuner swaps. I haven't had a SE Strat come through so I don't know. Maybe that's a testament to how good they are. Your comparison has the SE pickups sounding brighter, but still good. You can always take the bite out by rolling down the tone knob a bit. So no big deal, and unless you have both guitars to compare, it wont make a difference. I think both sound great. Honestly, I like the feel of slimmer necks so if I was in the market for a new Strat, I would probably get the SE version and maybe change out the nut for a graphite nut (not Graphtech) and maybe also change out the tuners. I'm a luthier, so I can get pretty much any guitar sounding great. Case in point, the no name Strat I just put together has now become my favorite guitar to play...and it cost just about $300 for the build - $150 of that went for some custom hand wound pickups from some dude in his basement. You don't need expensive to sound good, you just need to know how to set-up a guitar and how to tweak your guitar to match whatever equipment you have. Thanks Andre, this has been a great video. I love the way you did the side by side comparison using a short riff. Most people play lengthy riffs and by the time the swap happens, you forgot what the other sound was. The way you did it, should be the standard. Keep it up.

[@andrefludd]

Thank you sir!

[@garychait3353]

I'm from Jersey too! Excellent review!

[@andrefludd]

Love hearing from my fellow Jersey people

[@davidjoel111]

I own a core, bought it because it was one of those guitars that I picked up and could not stop playing, still after 2 years I still feel the same, my local store carries PRS and have had the opportunity to play 3 different SE, they feel and sound as good as my core

[@andrefludd]

Woah that is saying a lot!

[@dj_tmc]

Before I got my PRS CE, I tried a 513, a couple of Cores, and S2, and a decent amount of SEs. They were all good. (tangent: I don't know if Schecter gives all their bad QC'd guitars to Guitar Center, but the quality on all of them surpassed any Schecter I tried.) I did notice a few quality control issues on some SEs (some noise on pots and switches, for example) and I also noticed that the tone knob plastic felt a bit cheaper than the CE or core model to me. But those were easy fixes. What sold me on my CE was how much I love the neck shape and the satin finish. It plays better in my hands than the 513, which got me hooked on PRS guitars in the first place! And, I am able to get better tones than the 513, which felt a little dead (of course, different test days and amps, so if I was able to try them side by side, I might have felt differently) TL/DR: I was prepared to spend $1,500 more for my guitar, but got the 'cheaper' one because it worked better for me.

[@robertlucas9867]

I spent hours last year playing the Silver Sky SE vs a Squier Strat, Yamaha Pacifica, and two Fender Player series worth $1100-1500 and I kept going back to the Silver Sky SE and Yamaha. Eventually I picked the Silver Sky Se in Dragon fruit and it’s hard to put down. To me it played like butter, tone beautiful and longest sustain. Then I plugged it in and enjoyed the pickups including the bridge. Usually I find bridge kinda harsh or brittle on Fender but not the Silver Sky SE. The Yamaha Pacifica was great to but I just connected to the PRS. Three of my four guitars are PRS SE (Korean single cut, Custom 24 and Silver Sky SE) and the others are a Alvarez Artist Grand Auditorium and Yamaha TRBX405 bass. Love them all but PRS SE really raise the standard. So does that Alvarez acoustic, the bi-level bridge with 11’s allows me to play with a lower than average string height while still maintaining a great acoustic tone. Since I’m not a acoustic player this helps me play more on it. But back to PRS SE, I’m glad they make them. I can’t afford the core or higher models and I love the sound, feel and look of PRS. This is a win win for me.

[@gsimons213]

I really enjoyed this video review. I'm excited by the Silver Sky SE. To me, the Silver Sky sounds like the kind of Strat that I have been looking for. I really like the features of the SE more than the Core model, mostly two point trim and thinner neck. Being less than 1k really helps. I don't know if I will purchase it, because I have too many guitars already to purchase another but if I get rid of one or two then the SE will be on my list... after the PRS SE Custom 24-08.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for the support it’s a great guitar!

[@rocafella142]

A honest reviewer 😱 you have my sub

[@JayTheLane]

Great video.. I'd go the SE.. Actually the SE is on sale from Anderton Music in the UK for about £519 but you would have to pay shipping and taxes.

[@andrefludd]

Great deal for the UK folk.

[@ougigaming8710]

Thanks . For such a honest great review. Never better said. "Tge SE devalues the core because it's so good "" live that point

[@cornpop6154]

Your reviews are THE best. Not a strat guy, watched the whole thing.

[@andrefludd]

Thank you sir :). Spread the truth ;)

[@anc1741]

I know diddly squat about guitars or any other instrument, but my wife, who’s an incredibly skilled Principal Lecturer in Music tells me that I’m “very musical”. With all humility, I totally respect her opinion. Given my lack of knowledge, I have to say I really enjoyed your video Andre. It’s a fascinating watch to see your clearly highly educated comparison. I found myself watching it because I love watching John Mayer play and he is clearly a big influence on the brand. As a non-musician, I just wanted to say, great watch, enjoyed every second of it. Thanks.

[@andrefludd]

Wow! Thank you so much :). Never thought a non musician would watch this lol

[@travismccartney]

I liked A slightly better. It had a bit more clarity to my ears. However, I would be pleased with either and could only really pick up the difference since the sounds were straight back to back.

[@OpportunityElectrical]

You’re awesome, man. Subscribed 👍🏻 After playing only acoustic for the last 12 years, I just bought this silver sky se last week in the green color. I love it! -Christian

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for supporting :)!

[@onolicious9147]

Such and excellent review! Just found your channel…subbed immediately. I have the USA verision Silver Sky. I identified the USA version immediately…like most others. I got my PRS SS when they first came out and before the SE SS was made…I have played the SE’s now…I would have still bought the USA version had the SE been available. Rarely see someone who plays a Parker. I love mine.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for the support!

[@Arbiter609]

Awesome video, I definitely preffered the USA pickups but it's marginal. You can always touch up the neck and swap the pickups and still have and extra $1500 in your pocket.

[@distortedchannel1022]

Immediate subscribe after Jabba Hutt joke. Well done, very useful review! The best so far about those 2 guitars

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :). I appreciate the support

[@ShoNuffWillis]

My only qualm with some of the discourse around this guitar is the idea that this is a modernization of the Strat design. To me the first two features that need modernization on Strats are the 45 degree input jack that negates the use of 90 degree input cables, and the location of the 5 way selector switch that you will accidentally hit while strumming.

[@mellowfred8935]

There’s always a psychological struggle on this topic with PRS and other leading brands. I played an LP Gibby and a Epiy LP And came home with the more affordable Epiy and felt and sounded better. My SE out performs all my guitars, when it comes to staying in tune A close runner up would be my Crestwood. Props on an exceptionally informative video.