PRS SE HOLLOWBODY II PIEZO
The first Piezo-equipped model in the SE series makes a rather stunning debut…
Originally launched in the early 2000s, the PRS SE range has proven incredibly popular for guitarists desiring the brand’s iconic sounds and looks at a lower price point. But few would have dared to dream of a Hollowbody II Piezo – easily one of the most coveted offerings found in the company’s Core and Private Stock catalogues. There are, of course, the aesthetic reasons for this – gorgeous f-holes to complement all those other finishing touches that PRS is renowned for, virtually unrivalled in its knack for creating true works of art. Then there are the tonal advantages of a semi-acoustic body fitted with the LR Baggs/prs Piezo system, covering everything from high-gain rock and blues to woollier jazz tones and deceptively convincing acoustic sounds in one tight package. Naturally, its introduction into the SE line – costing roughly a third of its Core series equivalent – has come as most welcome news…
So where exactly have the savings been made? Well, as you might have guessed this version isn’t manufactured in their Stevensville, Maryland factory – though neither is it made in Indonesia, where the other SE electrics are produced. These guitars are actually made in China by Cor-tek, in the same building the SE acoustics are put together – which we think says a lot about what they’re hoping to achieve. Other notable differences include no toggle for switching between the humbuckers, the piezo or a blend of both – meaning you have to dial out what you don’t want when using the mixed output. It’s a fair concession, to be perfectly honest. Speaking of pickups, this version comes fitted with the Indonesian-made, Paf-style 58/15S pair whereas the Core model utilises the slightly less hot, vintage-voiced American 58/15LT set. There are differences between the piezo systems too, this one is slightly brighter and less rounded than its US counterpart, though very much still in the same ballpark. Finally there’s the finish, using a flamed maple veneer instead of a more costly carved figured maple top. Again, it’s to be expected and a small price to pay in return for affordability – especially with a brand so indoctrinated with the boutique end of the guitar manufacturing.
Before its even plugged in, our review model sounds bright and resonant – with no shortage of natural sustain and deep harmonics. The action was slightly high, though thanks to the adjustable PRS stoptail bridge this was corrected in minutes, with no discernible loss to its volume or low-end. Using the mixed output with the humbuckers and piezo volume controls on full, there’s an unmistakably rich and layered clean sound many will find addictive – bringing an almost 3D-like effect to anything you play through it. Add some gain and you’ll find no shortage of
JACK
AT A GLANCE
TOPWOOD:
AN UNMISTAKABLY RICH AND LAYERED CLEAN SOUND