Best PRS Double Cut Guitars 2026
Alright, let's talk PRS Double Cuts. These aren't your grandpa's guitars, but they're also not just another shred machine. They've carved out a unique space - a blend of American craftsmanship, a healthy dose of rock and roll attitude, and that unmistakable PRS aesthetic. If you're looking for a guitar that can handle everything from smoky blues to searing high-gain tones, a Double Cut PRS is a serious contender.
Last updated: April 29, 2026 • Next update: May 6, 2026
#1
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
PRS SE Custom 24 Quilt BG
by
PRS
Jazz
Rock
Metal
Key Feature:
The SE Custom 24 Quilt BG is a seriously impressive instrument for the money. The combination of mahogany and a figured maple top gives it a rich, resonant tone with a surprising amount of clarity. It's a great choice for players wanting a versatile, well-built guitar with a modern feel – perfect for rock, blues, and even some jazz.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides warmth and sustain; a real tonal foundation.
- • Quilted maple top adds visual flair and a touch of brightness.
- • 85/15 'S' pickups offer versatile, articulate tones across genres.
- • Wide thin neck profile is comfortable for a wide range of playing styles.
CONS
- • Mahogany body can contribute to a slightly heavier feel overall.
- • While versatile, the pickup voicing leans towards modern rock/fusion.
- • Ebony fingerboard can be prone to dryness if not properly maintained.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 577375
$1,044
#2
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
PRS Modern Eagle V Private Stock F
by
PRS
Lead Guitar
Metal
Rock
Key Feature:
This Modern Eagle V Private Stock F is a serious instrument for the discerning player. The combination of ash and quilted maple delivers a fantastic blend of warmth and clarity, while the MEV pickups offer a wide range of tones from glassy cleans to searing leads. It’s an investment piece, perfect for players who demand top-tier quality and a unique aesthetic.
PROS
- • The Frostbite Fade finish is stunning, showcasing the quilted maple's figure beautifully.
- • MEV TCI pickups deliver a remarkably balanced, articulate, and responsive tone.
- • Ash body provides a resonant foundation with a tight low-end and focused highs.
- • Private Stock construction guarantees exceptional wood selection and meticulous attention to detail.
CONS
- • The weight, typical of ash-bodied guitars, will be substantial for extended playing.
- • The 5-way switching, while versatile, might feel slightly complex for some players.
- • The premium-priced nature makes it inaccessible to a large portion of guitarists.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 599724
$15,399
#3
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
PRS SE Custom 24 Charcoal Cherry B
by
PRS
Technical Playing
Rock
Metal
Key Feature:
This SE Custom 24 is a fantastic entry point into the PRS world. The Charcoal Cherry Burst looks stunning, and the build quality is genuinely impressive for the price point. It's a real workhorse for rock, blues, and even some modern genres – a solid choice for gigging musicians and serious hobbyists.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides warmth and sustain, a solid foundation for diverse tones.
- • 85/15 S humbuckers deliver a balanced, versatile sound, surprisingly articulate.
- • Wide thin neck profile is comfortable and fast, ideal for extended playing sessions.
- • PRS tremolo system offers smooth vibrato capabilities without excessive tuning instability.
CONS
- • Rosewood fretboard can be prone to slight fret sprout over time, requiring occasional leveling.
- • Mahogany body contributes to a moderate weight; may be tiring for some players.
- • While versatile, the pickup voicing leans towards rock/modern, limiting its appeal for jazz purists.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 613718
$1,099
#4
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
PRS S2 McCarty594 Thinline MTS '24
by
PRS
Rock
Fusion
Technical Playing
Key Feature:
This S2 McCarty 594 Thinline is a serious contender for players wanting that classic PRS vibe without the premium price tag. The thin body makes it surprisingly comfortable, and those 58/15 pickups nail that sweet spot between vintage warmth and modern clarity. It’s an excellent choice for rock, blues, and even lighter jazz styles.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm sustain and resonance.
- • Pattern Thin neck profile is exceptionally comfortable for fast playing.
- • 58/15 LT pickups offer a balanced vintage-inspired tone.
- • Push/pull pots add versatility without sacrificing core McCarty character.
CONS
- • Mahogany body can contribute to a slightly heavier feel.
- • Rosewood fretboard might be a preference for some players.
- • Limited pickup options compared to higher-end McCarty models.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 590287
$2,639
#5
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
PRS SE CE 24 Standard Satin CH
by
PRS
Lead Guitar
Technical Playing
Rock
Key Feature:
This SE CE 24 Standard Satin CH is a seriously impressive instrument for the money. The mahogany body and 'S' humbuckers give you a really versatile palette, from glassy cleans to driven rock tones. It's a great choice for gigging musicians or anyone wanting a PRS feel and sound without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain, a real vintage vibe.
- • 85/15 'S' pickups offer articulate cleans and crunchy overdrive.
- • Wide-thin neck profile is comfortable for various hand sizes and playing styles.
- • Satin finish enhances feel and allows the mahogany's resonance to shine.
CONS
- • Mahogany body can make it feel slightly heavier than some guitars.
- • Rosewood fingerboard might feel a bit dry to some players, needs occasional conditioning.
- • Coil-splitting is effective, but lacks the complexity of higher-end pickup configurations.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 585616
$527
#6
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
PRS SE McCarty 594 Vintage SB
by
PRS
Rock
Jazz
Lead Guitar
Key Feature:
This SE McCarty 594 Vintage SB is a seriously impressive instrument for the money. It nails that vintage PRS vibe with its warm mahogany body, comfortable neck, and those fantastic 58/15 pickups. If you’re into classic rock, blues, or just want a well-built, great-sounding guitar that doesn’t break the bank, this is a fantastic choice.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain; a classic tonal foundation.
- • Vintage 'Pattern' neck profile is exceptionally comfortable and familiar.
- • PRS 58/15 LT 'S' pickups offer articulate crunch and vintage-inspired tones.
- • Flamed maple top adds visual appeal and a touch of brightness to the sound.
CONS
- • Mahogany body can make it feel a little heavier than some modern guitars.
- • Rosewood fingerboard might feel a bit dry for some players; conditioning recommended.
- • While versatile, it excels in rock and blues; less suited for extreme metal genres.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 565884
$1,051
#7
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
PRS SE CE 24 Sandblasted Ltd green
by
PRS
Lead Guitar
Technical Playing
Fusion
Key Feature:
This SE CE 24 is a seriously impressive package. The combination of mahogany and swamp ash gives it a great sonic foundation, and those 85/15 pickups handle everything from clean jazz tones to crunchy rock riffs. It's a fantastic option for players looking for PRS quality and versatility at a more accessible price point.
PROS
- • Swamp ash top delivers bright, articulate highs and sustain.
- • 85/15 'S' pickups offer a versatile, modern, and balanced tone.
- • Wide Thin neck profile suits players with larger hands or preferring a more substantial feel.
- • Sandblasted green finish is unique and visually striking; excellent build quality for the price.
CONS
- • Mahogany body can make it slightly heavier than some guitars.
- • Rosewood fretboard might feel a little dry to some players requiring occasional conditioning.
- • Tremolo system, while functional, isn't as refined as higher-end PRS units.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 613031
$692
#8
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
PRS SE McCarty 594 Laurel Burl LTD
by
PRS
Metal
Jazz
Lead Guitar
Key Feature:
This SE McCarty 594 is a seriously classy instrument. The combination of mahogany, that gorgeous burl top, and those 85/15 pickups gives it a warm, articulate voice perfect for classic rock, blues, and even some jazz. It’s a fantastic option for players wanting that vintage PRS vibe without the high-end price tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain; excellent resonance.
- • Laurel burl top adds striking aesthetics and nuanced tone.
- • 85/15 'S' pickups offer vintage clarity with modern punch.
- • Pattern Vintage neck profile is comfortable and familiar to many.
CONS
- • Mahogany construction can make it feel slightly heavier than some alternatives.
- • Limited edition availability may impact resale value down the line.
- • While versatile, leans towards classic rock; lacks extreme modern tones.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 612818
$1,319
#9
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
PRS Studio Purple Mist
by
PRS
Rock
Jazz
Fusion
Key Feature:
This Purple Mist Studio is a beautifully crafted instrument. The mahogany body and 58/15 LT pickup combo deliver a really sweet, balanced tone—it’s versatile enough for rock, blues, and even some funk. It’s a premium-priced option that's perfect for players who want a PRS experience without all the bells and whistles of the higher-end models.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain, a real vintage vibe.
- • 58/15 LT pickup offers articulate cleans and aggressive overdrive.
- • Rosewood fingerboard provides a comfortable, familiar playing experience.
- • Gen III Tremolo allows for expressive vibrato without tuning instability.
CONS
- • Mahogany construction contributes to a notably heavier feel for extended playing.
- • Purple Mist finish, while striking, may not appeal to all tastes.
- • The 5-way switch can feel somewhat limited for extensive tonal shaping.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 594761
$5,279
#10
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
PRS SE CE 24 VS
by
PRS
Metal
Rock
Fusion
Key Feature:
The SE CE 24 VS is a seriously solid guitar for the money. That mahogany body and those 85/15 pickups give you a really sweet, balanced tone – think classic rock and modern rock styles. It's a great entry point into the PRS world, perfect for gigging musicians or students looking for quality and versatility without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant tones with surprising sustain.
- • Wide-thin neck profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
- • 85/15 'S' pickups provide versatile tones from clean to driven crunch.
- • PRS tremolo system allows for expressive vibrato and subtle pitch bending.
CONS
- • Mahogany body can make it feel a bit heavier than some guitars.
- • Rosewood fingerboard might feel a little dry to some players; consider oiling.
- • Coil-split functionality, while useful, isn't the most nuanced.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 577386
$659
#11
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
PRS McCarty 594 PS Teal Black Glow
by
PRS
Jazz
Lead Guitar
Fusion
Key Feature:
This McCarty 594 PS is a serious instrument – a blend of vintage vibe and modern PRS refinements. The asymmetrical neck is a real treat, and the 58/15 LT pickups offer a versatile palette, from creamy blues to crunchy rock tones. It’s perfect for the discerning player who appreciates a premium-priced, beautifully crafted guitar with a touch of elegance.
PROS
- • Flamed maple top provides stunning aesthetics and enhanced upper-midrange clarity.
- • Pattern Vintage neck profile offers exceptional comfort and playability for varied hand sizes.
- • 58/15 LT pickups deliver a warm, articulate tone with surprising output and dynamics.
- • Hybrid hardware provides improved tuning stability and a refined aesthetic feel.
CONS
- • Mahogany construction contributes to a relatively heavy instrument, potentially tiring for extended playing.
- • The Teal Black Glow finish, while beautiful, might not appeal to all players' tastes.
- • Coil-splitting, while useful, doesn't offer true single-coil character due to the pickup design.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 591612
$15,398
#12
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
PRS Studio 10 Top Charcoal Burst
by
PRS
Metal
Technical Playing
Lead Guitar
Key Feature:
This Studio 10 Top is a serious contender if you're after a PRS with vintage character and a premium feel. The 58/15 LT pickup is a real standout, giving it a unique voice that's perfect for players who love a touch of grit alongside clean tones – think classic rock, blues, or even modern alternative. It's a high-end instrument offering a lot of value for the discerning musician.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers rich sustain and warmth, a classic PRS tone.
- • Flamed maple top adds visual flair and a touch of brightness.
- • 58/15 LT pickup offers a uniquely articulate and powerful vintage vibe.
- • Hybrid hardware provides excellent tuning stability and comfortable playability.
CONS
- • Mahogany construction contributes to a noticeably heavier instrument.
- • The 5-way switch, while versatile, can feel slightly less intuitive than dedicated pickup selections.
- • Charcoal Burst finish, while striking, may not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 577958
$5,829
#13
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
PRS SE CE 24 Standard Satin VC
by
PRS
Fusion
Metal
Rock
Key Feature:
The SE CE 24 Standard Satin VC is a fantastic entry point into the PRS world. It's got a really solid feel, those 85/15 pickups cover a lot of ground, and the satin finish looks slick. This is perfect for gigging musicians or students wanting a quality instrument without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warmth, sustain, and a pleasing mid-range focus.
- • 85/15 'S' humbuckers offer versatile tones from smooth blues to crunchy rock.
- • Wide Thin neck profile provides comfort and speed for a variety of playing styles.
- • PRS tremolo system allows for expressive vibrato without tuning instability.
CONS
- • Rosewood fingerboard can feel a bit dry and may benefit from conditioning.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the resonance of a set-neck.
- • Satin finish, while visually appealing, can show fingerprints and wear more easily.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 585632
$593
#14
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
PRS Modern Eagle V Grey B 10 Top
by
PRS
Metal
Lead Guitar
Rock
Key Feature:
This Modern Eagle V is a serious instrument, blending vintage warmth with modern playability. The flamed maple top is gorgeous, and the TCI pickups give you a wide range of tones from thick rhythm to searing leads. It's ideal for players who appreciate a premium-priced PRS with a touch of modern functionality and a gorgeous aesthetic.
PROS
- • Stunning flamed maple top elevates aesthetics and resonance.
- • Mahogany body provides warmth and sustain, a classic tone foundation.
- • TCI pickups offer versatile PRS voicing with excellent clarity and punch.
- • Gen III tremolo provides smooth, reliable performance and tuning stability.
CONS
- • Mahogany body contributes to a noticeably heavier instrument; may fatigue players.
- • Grey Black finish, while beautiful, can be a fingerprint magnet.
- • The 5-way switching, while versatile, might feel slightly complex to some.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 594730
$6,984
#15
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
PRS SE CE 24 Standard Satin MS
by
PRS
Metal
Rock
Jazz
Key Feature:
This SE CE 24 Standard Satin is a seriously impressive instrument for the money. The mahogany body gives it a warm, full tone that really shines for rock and modern styles, and the coil-splitting feature lets you dial in some surprisingly good cleans. It’s a fantastic option for players looking for PRS quality and versatility without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant tones with excellent sustain.
- • 85/15 'S' pickups offer a versatile range from clean to driven rock sounds.
- • Wide-thin neck profile is comfortable for various hand sizes and playing styles.
- • Push/pull coil split adds significant tonal flexibility for single-coil tones.
CONS
- • PRS tremolo system can feel a bit basic compared to higher-end options.
- • Rosewood fretboard may require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.
- • Satin finish, while visually appealing, shows fingerprints and wear more easily.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 601453
$611
How to Choose the Best Double Cut Guitars
1
Heritage & Design
PRS started as a response to the traditional LP/Strat dichotomy. The Double Cut design was about accessibility and comfort - easier upper fret access for players who needed it. It's become a defining visual and ergonomic element.
2
Neck Profiles
PRS has experimented with neck profiles over the years. From the vintage-inspired '59 Slim Taper to the modern Pattern Set neck, the feel drastically impacts playability. It's a huge deal - find one that feels right in your hand.
3
Pickups & Voicing
PRS pickups often get a bad rap, but they've evolved. Early ones could be a bit scooped and lacking character, but modern TCI 'S' pickups offer a surprisingly articulate and dynamic response. They handle overdrive beautifully and retain clarity even at higher gain.
4
Tremolo System
The PRS tremolo is a unique selling point - it's smoother and more stable than a vintage Fender trem, allowing for subtle vibrato without major tuning instability. However, it's also a potential point of maintenance if you're not diligent about setup.
5
Build Quality & Materials
PRS consistently delivers solid build quality. The carved tops are gorgeous, the hardware is generally reliable, and the woods used (mahogany, maple) contribute to a warm, resonant tone. However, cheaper models might use less figured tops and simpler hardware to cut costs.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the flame top. Seriously. Focus on the neck profile and pickup voicing. Used models are your friend - you can often find fantastic deals on guitars that have been lightly played. The core PRS experience is there regardless of the finish, but a good setup is essential - a poorly set up PRS will feel and sound awful, just like any other guitar. Pay attention to the bridge saddles - PRS has gone through a few iterations, and some are more prone to wear than others.
Our Methodology
We're not just staring at spec sheets here. We've spent countless hours playing these guitars - live, in the studio, and in rehearsal rooms - A/B-ing them against Strats, Les Pauls, and everything in between. Our evaluations are based on feel, tone, and how they perform in real-world musical situations, not just marketing buzzwords.
Frequently Asked Questions
'Better' is subjective. They offer a different flavor - more balanced and versatile. A Strat might have more chime, a Les Paul more low-end thump, but a PRS Double Cut often finds a happy medium.
Core is the standard, Select gets better woods and finishes, and Artist models are custom-built with even higher-end components and personalized specs. The price jumps accordingly.
Generally no. They're voiced for clarity and articulation, not raw output. You can swap them, of course, if you want more aggression, but the stock pickups are surprisingly capable.
Keep it clean and lubricated. Regularly check the spring tension and saddle alignment. A little preventative maintenance goes a long way in preventing tuning issues.
Absolutely. With the right amp and settings, they can deliver plenty of crunch. They might not have the same thick, saturated distortion as a Les Paul, but they offer a more articulate and controlled high-gain response.
