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: June 17, 2026 • Next update: June 24, 2026
⚡ The best double cut guitars in 2026 are PRS 70th SE Custom 24 Quilt BO (top pick), PRS Studio Wood Library River Blue for tighter budgets, and PRS SE McCarty 594 Vintage SB for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $610–$15,398, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
PRS 70th SE Custom 24 Quilt BO
by
PRS
Metal
Technical Playing
Rock
Key Feature:
This 70th Anniversary SE Custom 24 Quilt BO is a serious contender for players wanting PRS quality at a more accessible price point. The Quilt top is gorgeous, and the 85/15 pickups give you a wide range of tones from thick rock rhythm to singing lead lines. It's a fantastic choice for intermediate to advanced players looking for a versatile and beautiful instrument.
PROS
- • Quilted maple top provides stunning visual appeal and enhanced resonance.
- • 85/15 'S' pickups deliver a versatile, balanced, and articulate tone.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a slick playing experience and excellent note definition.
- • Wide Thin neck profile caters to players preferring a comfortable, substantial feel.
CONS
- • Mahogany body might feel slightly heavier than alder or basswood alternatives.
- • Limited production run makes acquisition potentially challenging for some buyers.
- • Coil-splitting, while useful, may not offer truly convincing single-coil tones.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 573117
$1,099
#2
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
PRS Studio Wood Library River Blue
by
PRS
Fusion
Lead Guitar
Rock
Key Feature:
This Studio Wood Library is a seriously impressive instrument. The combination of mahogany and flame maple delivers a rich, balanced tone that's fantastic for rock, blues, and even some jazz. It's a premium-priced guitar aimed at players who appreciate quality construction and a classic PRS feel.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides warmth and sustain, a truly resonant foundation.
- • Wood Library flame maple top adds stunning aesthetics and focused upper harmonics.
- • PRS 59/09 bridge pickup delivers a powerful, articulate vintage-inspired tone.
- • Hybrid hardware and Gen III tremolo offer stability and smooth vibrato functionality.
CONS
- • Mahogany body construction contributes to a noticeably heavier instrument.
- • Limited pickup configurations restrict versatility for extreme genre exploration.
- • River Blue finish, while beautiful, might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 601637
$6,599
#3
⭐
4.5/5
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.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 565884
$1,051
#4
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
PRS SE Custom 24 TU
by
PRS
Jazz
Technical Playing
Fusion
Key Feature:
The SE Custom 24 TU is a seriously solid guitar for the price. It’s got that classic PRS vibe, but with a modern pickup set that's surprisingly flexible—great for rock, blues, and even some lighter genres. If you want a well-built, good-sounding guitar that won't empty your wallet, this is a fantastic choice.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain, a real foundation.
- • 85/15 S pickups offer a surprisingly versatile, modern tone.
- • Wide thin neck profile is comfortable for a wide range of players.
- • Tremolo system allows for expressive vibrato without tuning instability.
CONS
- • Mahogany body can make it slightly heavier than some guitars.
- • Rosewood fingerboard might feel a little dry to some players.
- • While versatile, it’s not a shredder’s dream; leans towards classic rock.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 577894
$879
#5
⭐
4.5/5
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.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 601453
$611
#6
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
PRS CE 24 Fire Red Burst
by
PRS
Technical Playing
Lead Guitar
Jazz
Key Feature:
The CE 24 Fire Red Burst is a solid performer. It's got a warm, resonant core thanks to the mahogany, but the flamed maple keeps things interesting. This is a great choice for players who want a versatile, shred-friendly guitar with a modern edge – perfect for rock, alternative, and even some heavier styles.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain, a real foundation.
- • Flamed maple top adds visual flair and a touch of brightness.
- • Pattern Thin neck profile is exceptionally comfortable for fast playing.
- • 85/15 pickups offer versatility – thick humbucker tones and chimey splits.
CONS
- • Mahogany body contributes to a slightly heavier feel compared to ash or basswood.
- • Rosewood fretboard might not appeal to players preferring maple's snappier response.
- • Coil-splitting isn't the most nuanced; leans towards a thinner single-coil.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 601862
$3,134
#7
⭐
4.4/5
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.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 613031
$692
#8
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
PRS Modern Eagle V CH 10 Top
by
PRS
Metal
Lead Guitar
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Modern Eagle V is a seriously refined instrument. The combination of mahogany warmth and maple clarity, coupled with those TCI pickups, gives it a really balanced, modern voice. It's a premium-priced choice ideal for players seeking a high-performance PRS with a touch of vintage vibe and modern versatility.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers rich sustain and warmth.
- • 10 Top maple provides stunning visuals and added clarity.
- • PRS TCI pickups offer versatile tones, from clean to driven.
- • Gen III Tremolo provides smooth, reliable vibrato functionality.
CONS
- • The mahogany body contributes to a notably heavier feel.
- • The aesthetic, while refined, might not appeal to all tastes.
- • The coil-splitting, while useful, can thin out the core tones.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 601635
$7,039
#9
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
PRS SE CE 24 Standard Satin IN
by
PRS
Lead Guitar
Metal
Technical Playing
Key Feature:
This SE CE 24 Standard Satin IN is a fantastic entry point into the PRS world. The mahogany body and 'S' pickups give it a surprisingly rich, balanced tone, and the wide-thin neck is a joy to play. It's a great choice for gigging musicians or players looking for a versatile, well-built instrument without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain, a real vintage vibe.
- • Wide-thin neck profile is comfortable for various hand sizes and playing styles.
- • 85/15 'S' pickups offer a versatile range, from clean to driven tones.
- • PRS tremolo provides smooth vibrato and tuning stability, surprisingly well-implemented.
CONS
- • Satin finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can show fingerprints easily.
- • Rosewood fingerboard may require more frequent oiling for optimal playability.
- • Coil-split functionality is limited; not a true single-coil sound.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 601454
$637
#10
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
PRS S2 McCarty 594 Thinline VC
by
PRS
Fusion
Lead Guitar
Technical Playing
Key Feature:
This S2 McCarty 594 Thinline VC is a seriously impressive instrument. The thin body and comfortable neck make it a joy to play, and the 58/15 pickups give you that classic PRS growl with surprising clarity. It's a premium-priced guitar that delivers a lot of value for the money, especially appealing to players seeking a vintage-inspired tone and feel.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant tones with excellent sustain.
- • 58/15 LT pickups offer a versatile, articulate vintage-inspired voice.
- • Pattern Thin neck profile provides comfortable, fast playability for many hands.
- • Push/pull tone controls unlock a wide range of tonal possibilities.
CONS
- • Mahogany body can make it feel slightly heavier than some guitars.
- • Rosewood fretboard may require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.
- • Vintage-style bridge lacks the locking capabilities of modern designs.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 590288
$2,639
#11
⭐
4.7/5
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.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 613718
$1,099
#12
⭐
4.8/5
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.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 599724
$15,399
#13
⭐
4.8/5
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.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 594730
$6,984
#14
⭐
4.6/5
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.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 591612
$15,398
#15
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
PRS SE CE 24 BR
by
PRS
Technical Playing
Lead Guitar
Jazz
Key Feature:
The SE CE 24 BR is a fantastic entry point into the PRS world. The mahogany body and versatile pickups deliver a surprisingly rich tone, and the wide-thin neck is a real pleasure to play. It’s a solid choice for gigging musicians or students looking for a high-quality instrument with a modern aesthetic.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant tones with excellent sustain.
- • Wide-thin neck profile is comfortable for various hand sizes and playing styles.
- • 85/15 'S' pickups offer a versatile range from clean to driven rock sounds.
- • PRS tremolo provides smooth vibrato capabilities with reliable tuning stability.
CONS
- • Rosewood fingerboard can feel a bit dry; consider oiling for optimal feel.
- • Bolt-on neck construction lacks the inherent warmth of a set-neck design.
- • Blood Orange finish, while striking, might not appeal to all players' tastes.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 577384
$692
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.
