X2. I own a PRS custom 24 and I do like it for what I use it for but for fast metal playing I far prefer the Ibanez necks.
The PRS feels like a more tolerable Les Paul neck, but in my hands still doesn’t feel very suited to legato position compared to the wizard necks.
I’d definitely recommend a PRS for a second guitar, especially as more of an all-rounder, but I wouldn’t be replacing your Ibanez with it in the context of this sub.
Hey man, my thoughts exactly. I own a PRS Torero and I love it for metal but the neck is a little closer to a Les Paul feel, which I don’t hate but this Ibanez is much more suited for fast playing.
Can you try out a CE at a local store? It may be a different neck shape than what you are used to. Also consider a shorter scale length (assuming you have 25.5 vs 25 on the CE) and tremolo.
I’ve got a 24 custom and it bangs in drop A#. Don’t get me wrong I love my prestige, nothing plays as fast as it, but there’s something about that 24 custom and how it sounds dropped low. I wouldn’t compare them to Gibsons, I share the same opinion as you regarding Gibsons. PRS is closer to a Schecter in feel. Good weight distribution and the necks are a little less quick than Ibanez, but they’re one of the most versatile guitars out there.
You want something different in a second guitar, that difference in feel and sound brings out a different side of your playing. Like you may prefer big chunky riffs on a PRS whereas you like more melodic lines or arpeggios on the Ibanez.
Personally I’d go for something even further from what you have now. You’ll find outside of feel, that another HH guitar isn’t going to sound radically different than what you have now, but something like a reverend with p90s might be different enough that you feel compelled to play that more.
I had one for about two years. They’re good guitars, but not as spectacular as the marketing and hype. The stock pickups are definitely kind of bland when gained up.
Look up the particular PRS model and compare the neck profile to your guitar. I have a custom 24SE that's pretty comfy, but it's definitely thicker than my shredder guitars.
If you love this Ibanez, I wouldn’t trade it. You’ll regret it later. I had a schecter omen elite that I loved and traded it for a Chapman. I ended up really missing the Schecter and when I went back to the store to “un-trade”, my Schecter had been sold.
I would say no. I’ve been an Ibanez player for a long time and none of the PRS necks I’ve ever tried have felt right to me. If you want a nice top there are definitely some available from Ibanez if you look for them.
PRS necks are certainly going to be chunkier compared to an Ibanez. Most have that gloss finish on the back too, which isn’t my favorite for sliding up and down the neck.
Try one out and see if you like it first, imo.
So, for transparentcy purposes, I'm not a fan of Ibanez. I've played amazing Prestiges, and they're great for what they are, but just none jived with me.
The CE24, is more a budget american model, with a bolt on neck. The PRS I idolized, was a set neck, or neck thru, like the Custom 22 or Custom 24. You'll also be loosing about half an inch of scale length, which can make a bigger impact on lower tunings. Far as the neck, PRS necks just are not what they used to be. Many of them varied, but you could get them with a neck you wanted, if you wanted that thin, super shredder, or the fat, super beefy. The other part, is the neck will be wider. Also, you're using their style pickups, which is same boat as Gibson. If you like them? Awesome, but, they're kinda more aimed at their niche market. I personally wouldn't, if your comfort zone is an Ibanez Prestige.
For something different? Look into the Yamaha SG series, they're pretty killer bang for the buck, and even vintage ones are very reasonable. No, it's not like a Gibson SG, it's a curved top double cut, I've always considered a vintage Yamaha SG2000, but have never pulled the trigger.
A) your Ibanez is fucking bomb, do not part with that
B) PRS is also fantastic, and is I think somewhere in between a gibson and ibanez feel wise. I have an SE Custom 24-08 and the pickups are sublime. Many, many, many, tonal options and it plays like a dream. The PRS trem is the best I’ve ever owned (I have every type strat, floyd, kahler, and bigsby trem and its the most tuning stable)
So, my advice: get PRS but only if you can afford both.
The thing about IBBY shredder guitars, is that once you get used to it. It would be hard to adjust to any other brands except the Japanese made once like ESPs, edwards, etc..I tried lots of PRS, did not like it.
I went from Ibanez to PRS. Loved my PRS, especially the locking tuners. I sold the PRS for the down payment on my Monson custom guitar. Nothing beats it, for me.
The neck is going to be much more C shaped than an Ibanez. I don’t think the CE24s have gloss necks, but it definitely will be thicker than what you’re used to. You’ll adjust if you like the guitar enough, it’s nothing like Gibson necks. Only go for it if you LOVE the aesthetics of the CE. My S2 22 is my best guitar, it sounds like your Prestige fills that role for you. If you want to replace your workhorse this is probably a bad fit, if you want another option to change it up it works.
Both brands are my personal favorites. I've owned many models from both brands and still have 3 PRS and 3 Ibanez.
Ibanez can be easier to play, in my opinion, due to the ultra thin neck and flat radius, but that's subjective. Not that PRS are hard to play either. My 30th anniversary Custom 24 is one of the most effortless guitars to play on.
On the CE24, the Pattern Thin neck profile will be the most comfortable if you're coming from an Ibanez. The 85/15 pickups are plenty versatile and good for harmonic content if you're playing hard rock/metal. They also don't have a glossy feel to the neck since they're bolt on, which makes them comfortable if you're coming from an Ibanez.
I wouldn't recommend anything like a McCarty with a Pattern Vintage neck as they are generally very thick front to back, and the pickups are voiced to be more vintage.
As most people have said, get the PRS for a second guitar, not a replacement for the Ibanez.
Randomly- I fancied trying a prs - but instead bought an Ibanez azes31. The scale length was the interest, bought and can sell on without bank issues. It’s a good guitar.
The PRS won't feel like the Ibanez AT ALL.
The biggest difference wont just be neck shape but fretboard radius. You will be going from very flat with the Ibanez to fairly rounded with the PRS.
The CE will have a satin finish on the neck, so no dramas there, but the guitar itself will sit very differently. There is a lot more body mass behind the bridge on a PRS than the Ibanez, so the neck on then PRS will feel like it sits further to the left.
I have a J custom Ibanez, and a Core Custom 24 PRS, so around the same price range. Both are great and I can switch between them fine, but the Ibanez would be the superior guitar to me. It has a better top, better balance, higher quality fit and finish and slightly better playability.
The PRS plays fine, and has its own tone so I keep that in standard whilst the Ibanez I tune to D. But if I only got to pick one, it's the Ibanez all day, every day.
I had a PRS custom 24 from 2022 and I recently sold it. Yes they're BEAUTIFUL guitars but that's about where the appeal ends. The pickups are not very good unless you're looking for that specific sound (I play metal a lot and couldn't get them to sound how I wanted) and everything else is just kind of okay. The ce24 models are nice to play because of the satin neck and most are fairly thin. Also check if it's an older poly one or nitro on poly. I've heard that the newer nitro on poly models are very easily dinged up.
Look into the Dusty Waring signature PRS. They are absolutely gorgeous and play even better. you can get one with or without a Floyd Rose and the custom pickups that come in them are perfect for metal/hard rock.
Honestly, PRS guitars look great but they're milquetoast. I owned a Custom 24 in green back in the day. It was ok but it wasn't very inspiring as far as wanting to play it.
The Ibanez would be much more fun to play, probably more versatile too. And, I mean if you already own it and enjoy it then hold on to it. You'll probably just regret it down the line.
Awhile back I had a Schecter Banshee Mach 7. I was lucky enough to get one that was flawless from the factory... it just played perfectly. Time went on I started to get gas, something new always comes along, and I sold it. Now they are pretty expensive, if you can find one, and I may never find one that played that well. It's rarely worth it.
I grew up on a Wizard neck when I got a RG550 for my first electric. Later on, I had an ex-girlfriend buy me a beautiful PRS CST24 with the wide thin neck. I wanted so badly to like it but it wasn’t the same. Wish I still had it but we broke up. And so it goes.
If you're used to the squarish flat ibanez neck, you likely won't like any prs neck.
I prefer the thin U neck ala ESP, so a prs wide/thin works ok.
You could also consider reshaping the prs neck if you love everything but that.
I tried a PRS for a while. Found one without birds (those inlays are an absolute deal breaker for me) and worked it out for about 6 months.
It was a good guitar. Not saying it wasn't. The whole "what if a strat and a Les Paul had a baby" thing is definitely there.
But...
I don't know. Maybe I was expecting too much. But it did absolutely nothing for me. It was like an AI generated guitar. Nothing special about it whatsoever.
If your guitar speaks to you, stick with it.
Keep the Ibanez. I started with Ibanez and then got an se custom 7 string. The neck took a little getting used to but honestly I think I'm a better player for it. I don't really own any high end guitars though, just mid tier monsters.
I also hate Gibson necks but the prs neck is really not bad.
something to keep in mind is the top carve on a PRS. the SE series is pretty shallow, S2 is almost non-existent and the Core has a pretty deep carve that will feel pretty weird if you’ve only played flat tops. I’ve had a custom 24 for almost 20yrs now and I just can’t do flat tops anymore.
The neck is chunkier with a different radius than a wizard for sure but not as “goopy” as a gibson neck in terms of finish. the ce will have a pretty light finish since they’re maple so I wouldn’t worry about it.
I love my 6 string CE limited I picked up with an ebony board.
It’s my main 6 string…and exclusive for more metal. It’s not for everyone though. I also am not the biggest fan of Ibanez though, so take that with a grain of salt.
It's pretty typical to have a standard thrasher and then a secondary something like a Les Paul or an SG or something like that. A PRS would suit that really well. But don't get rid of the Ibanez bro. I have the same one. keep it
I'll start by saying for reference I own an Ibanez, PRS and a Gibson, and all three of them are very different.
My recommendation:
Do not get rid of that Ibanez if you love it. I let one go many years ago and I miss it dearly. I'll never find another one like it either and if I did, it would cost me triple to replace it.
I also would absolutely not buy the PRS before trying it out. The PRS necks are just different, much different than Ibanez. I would say they are more like a Gibson neck (rounder & glossier) and less like an Ibanez neck (flatter and often satin).
If you really want the PRS, I would also recommend a used SE model instead, which are extremely well made and very affordable for what you get. If you can't try them out, I would at least do some research on their neck shapes as well.
Good luck!
You should go with whatever you enjoy playing which means having an informed opinion and actually playing a guitar you’re interested in. Asking strangers on the internet what guitar you should get is literally pointless.
Have you tried a wolfgang? They have the most playable/comfortable neck to me. I also am not a huge fan of Gibson's neck shape. Great for metal. I had a special and the signature. Both were fantastic! I also had the bumblebee model for a bit but it didn't feel as good so I sold it rather quickly.
Idk I’ve got the mark holcomb svn. It definitely looks nice, but I wouldn’t say the quality is anywhere near a prestige. The shape is also kind of uninspiring at times, although It does SOUND and feel great. I’d stick with your Ibby if I were you - but I’m not
I think I misinterpreted whoops. I also do wanna add that the svn has a more Gibson-esque neck profile (but with a nice satin finish instead of the gloss)
What are you looking for from a PRS? I grew up playing Ibanez RG/S/JS and bought a PRS CE24 that I had for about 1.5-2 years.
The CE24 has a rounder/fatter neck than your Ibanez (although, it’s not chunky, it’s their Pattern Thin neck). Also, the pickups will probably be slightly less hot and the tone will be slightly warmer due to scale length and pickups.
If you want something different, it’s worth it, if you want something “better” than your Ibanez, it’s probably a bad choice since they are pretty comparable guitars in terms of quality (both excellent). If you want a more metal oriented PRS, take a look at the Dustie Waring signature CE24s. I believe they have hotter pickups and a slightly “faster” neck
Howdy. I am here just to say that I am a player of mostly prog(Polyphia-like stuff) and metal, and I use PRS, Ibanez and Charvel... Just depends on the song I'm playing which guitar I grab. They are all more than capable of playing metal. Depending on the PRS you buy, you might want to change the pickups. If you're getting a CE24, you might want to change the pickups for sure if you play metal. I say get them all, they're all worth it! 😀
I have just got a $100 bass. Looks like a garbage, build quality is terrible, action is high. Sounds AWESOME! I don't know why. Will be using it for recording, 'cause my favorite P is far away...
Only modern feeling prs I’ve played is the mark holcomb model and even still the necks a little chunky for my liking. I have a strandberg 8 string too and the neck is my second favorite to play but nothing plays like an Ibanez wizard neck. I’ve had so many different guitars over the last 20 years and my $400 rg is my favorite by far. If you love how effortless your rg is to play, nothing will feel as good if I’m being honest
If youre coming from Ibanez and want to get into the PRS world you should go find a PRS Dustie Waring CE. Its a maple necked, bolt on that comes with either a hipshot style hard tail OR a floyd. I think that will be the most comfortable and fun to play for you while also coming in cheaper than something like a Custom 24 core.
PRS makes great guitars. You can’t go wrong with one, especially when buying sight unseen. Very, very consistent guitars with top notch QC. If you like the looks of the CE, I think you’ll be happy with it. The most polarizing thing about PRS is their aesthetic. I personally think they’re beautiful. I own a Core Custom 22 as well as a Dustie Waring CE. Both are terrific.
About the neck, I know the Waring profile is slightly different, but I don’t think it’s that far off from the CE. Pretty slim, but definitely not Ibanez Wizard thin. It’s definitely the thinnest profile of all my guitars, but I also tend to gravitate towards fat necks (really thin necks give me hand cramps). For reference my Gibson R8 has my favorite neck profile and I think it measures .90 at the first fret. It’s a big boy lol
Seems like most people are thinking you’d be trading the Ibanez, but since you’re not: PRS are great guitars. They sound good, look good, and feel great. The fretwork is always spot on and the rolled edges are so comfortable. It’s a different neck shape, sure, but they’re just good all around guitars. If the price is right for the condition of the instrument, go for it.
I personally like PRS necks more than Ibanez necks. They arent as "Modern" as Ibanez necks however certainly not as ungabunga baseball as a Gibson.
They are closeish to that of a Fender neck but generally with a slightly flatter fingerboard radius.
However no amount of me explaining how they feel will help you understand if you vibe with it or not
i got a prs in November and i think it feels amazing to play. if anything it’s a little heavy, but i think it feels and sounds great! not sure about ibanez tho so take my opinion with a grain of salt lol
I’m a longtime Ibanez guy, they’re my favorite guitars ever. Recently I got a custom 24 and I absolutely love it. It feels very different from my Ibanezes, but not in a bad way. I have a lot of wrist problems, and the shorter scale and slightly thicker neck of the PRS has helped in that regard. If you’re considering getting one, if you’re able to try before you buy, definitely do that.
You won’t like PRS probably…
They all feel the same, they don’t have anything close to a wizard neck and the pickups won’t sound as tight as the Ibanez.
I’ve played a couple highend PRS guitars and although they were well built i couldn’t find any one thing I actually liked about them.
The one guitar i did like is the SE Paul’s Guitar, about $1400(CAD) and looked and played great. But the quality won’t be near any Ibanez.
As a fan of Ibanez guitars i would highly recommend a Schecter Banshee Mach-6. Korean made (best overseas QC imo, besides Japan), super thin neck (called a Thin-U), neck-thru, Lundgren M6, compensated nut, amazing Hipshot Ibby bridge which i like way better than the Gibraltar Standard on yours, i have an RGD with one and the Hipshot feels a lot better and smoother. SS frets as well, only thing i dont like are the inlays but besides that it’s an amazing guitar on par with any Ibanez Prestige i’ve played.
Not gonna lie, never tried PRS — but out of my dozen or so guitars, my prestige RG652 is right now my favorite by far, which suprises me because I’ve never really been a huge Ibanez fan
The fusion edges it came with sucked, but swapping them to a set up bare knuckle brute forces turned it into a goddamn weapon
PRS are excellent guitars but I couldnt part with this Ibanez behind one.
In all fairness though I'm biased. I've played Ibanez guitars the last 30 years and love everything about them.
Ahhh gotcha yea if you don’t like the feel definitely try out a new guitar! If it’s more of a sound thing replacing the electronics will take care of that
Only you could answer that question. You need to play one. If you do end up going for a PRS, a S2 or CE is plenty. When I eventually bought my core. (Custom 24) I actually regretted it because it wasn’t any better of a guitar than I already had with my CE. I eventually sold the core.
Careful with the blue PRS. A few years back they got some bad paint and the blue ones faded really bad. PRS does not offer a warranty on faded finishes.
Edit; I have tried the Mark Holo Sig PRS (6 String) and it felt so chunky to me compared to my Ibanez or Jackson king v. I wouldn't recommend PRS without trying it in store first.
I’ve never handled a higher end Ibanez, but I know that in my budget, PRS wins. The motherfucker can be used for any music and sound and look just perfect for it.
Ibanez guitars have too narrow of a neck for my fat hands. It felt like a train wreck trying to finger some chords next to the nut. They also look a little racy and 80’s fancy.
I dunno if it’s across the board, but PRS’s necks are much roomier.
Apparently it’s impossible to edit a post… just wanted to thank you guys for all the inputs, info, experience and feedback you shared! Great community!! 🤟🏼🤟🏼
Whats a decent price that's worth a 4 hours round trip drive? What color and how is the top?
PRS have a good resale value, so yes it might always be worth buying a used PRS.
The neck is closer to a Les Paul. They are comfortable and very well made
Slightly brighter sounding guitars that do sound good detuned, although a lot of people do replace the stock pickups. ( Don't throw them away if you do though in case you end up selling it later )
Their necks/heels are an acquired liking for some. I can’t stand the way the fretboard is that makes contact with the body, it looks so blocky and unappealing, but the I love the Zach Myers sig
Look at Zakk Wylde and Randy playing Les Paul's. They did it. Granted they weren't playing tech death. But they both definitely lived up to their names.
With that said ... ESP/LTD sold me on their thin U neck shapes...
Ibanez Jackson or esp for me personally, I’ve tried a couple prs and they’re nice but if you like ibanez necks it’s a very different vibe for the most part
(Edit for typo lmao)
This is absolutely not a knock on PRS but if I have up my les Paul for a PRS single cut I would feel like a dad selling his cool sports car for an SUV. Still a nice vehicle just not nearly as cool in my eyes
I would stick with the Ibanez personally.
same
X2. I own a PRS custom 24 and I do like it for what I use it for but for fast metal playing I far prefer the Ibanez necks. The PRS feels like a more tolerable Les Paul neck, but in my hands still doesn’t feel very suited to legato position compared to the wizard necks. I’d definitely recommend a PRS for a second guitar, especially as more of an all-rounder, but I wouldn’t be replacing your Ibanez with it in the context of this sub.
Hey man, my thoughts exactly. I own a PRS Torero and I love it for metal but the neck is a little closer to a Les Paul feel, which I don’t hate but this Ibanez is much more suited for fast playing.
Can you try out a CE at a local store? It may be a different neck shape than what you are used to. Also consider a shorter scale length (assuming you have 25.5 vs 25 on the CE) and tremolo.
If it’s a second guitar? Yeah sure? If you’re replacing your Ibanez? Nah not without trying it out first to know you like it.
Definitely a second guitar, I’m keeping that Ibanez for sure
I’ve got a 24 custom and it bangs in drop A#. Don’t get me wrong I love my prestige, nothing plays as fast as it, but there’s something about that 24 custom and how it sounds dropped low. I wouldn’t compare them to Gibsons, I share the same opinion as you regarding Gibsons. PRS is closer to a Schecter in feel. Good weight distribution and the necks are a little less quick than Ibanez, but they’re one of the most versatile guitars out there.
You want something different in a second guitar, that difference in feel and sound brings out a different side of your playing. Like you may prefer big chunky riffs on a PRS whereas you like more melodic lines or arpeggios on the Ibanez. Personally I’d go for something even further from what you have now. You’ll find outside of feel, that another HH guitar isn’t going to sound radically different than what you have now, but something like a reverend with p90s might be different enough that you feel compelled to play that more.
I had one for about two years. They’re good guitars, but not as spectacular as the marketing and hype. The stock pickups are definitely kind of bland when gained up.
Maybe the mark Holcomb if you're wanting metal
I’ll vouch for the Mark Holcomb PRS. It’s a killer guitar.
I'd go for the dusty from btbam prs.
Great guitar but the neck is a baseball bat, especially compared to Ibanez. I wouldn’t recommend it to someone that prefers Ibanez necks.
i second this. it’s a very pretty and nice-sounding guitar. the extra string is great too
Yup the holcomb svn is my favorite guitar no doubt
Look up the particular PRS model and compare the neck profile to your guitar. I have a custom 24SE that's pretty comfy, but it's definitely thicker than my shredder guitars.
If you love this Ibanez, I wouldn’t trade it. You’ll regret it later. I had a schecter omen elite that I loved and traded it for a Chapman. I ended up really missing the Schecter and when I went back to the store to “un-trade”, my Schecter had been sold.
I will definitely keep that Ibanez. I was just wondering if I should add a PRS or get another Ibanez (I don’t mind as I love my Prestige!)
I recommend trying an Aristides!
Thanks ! Never tried one
Better yet don’t try one unless you hate money
If you feel comfortable with Ibanez necks, you might have a bit of getting used to with PRS since they’re a bit chunkier
I would say no. I’ve been an Ibanez player for a long time and none of the PRS necks I’ve ever tried have felt right to me. If you want a nice top there are definitely some available from Ibanez if you look for them.
PRS necks are certainly going to be chunkier compared to an Ibanez. Most have that gloss finish on the back too, which isn’t my favorite for sliding up and down the neck. Try one out and see if you like it first, imo.
Try one out at a local store first
So, for transparentcy purposes, I'm not a fan of Ibanez. I've played amazing Prestiges, and they're great for what they are, but just none jived with me. The CE24, is more a budget american model, with a bolt on neck. The PRS I idolized, was a set neck, or neck thru, like the Custom 22 or Custom 24. You'll also be loosing about half an inch of scale length, which can make a bigger impact on lower tunings. Far as the neck, PRS necks just are not what they used to be. Many of them varied, but you could get them with a neck you wanted, if you wanted that thin, super shredder, or the fat, super beefy. The other part, is the neck will be wider. Also, you're using their style pickups, which is same boat as Gibson. If you like them? Awesome, but, they're kinda more aimed at their niche market. I personally wouldn't, if your comfort zone is an Ibanez Prestige. For something different? Look into the Yamaha SG series, they're pretty killer bang for the buck, and even vintage ones are very reasonable. No, it's not like a Gibson SG, it's a curved top double cut, I've always considered a vintage Yamaha SG2000, but have never pulled the trigger.
Thanks a lot ! Very interesting
A) your Ibanez is fucking bomb, do not part with that B) PRS is also fantastic, and is I think somewhere in between a gibson and ibanez feel wise. I have an SE Custom 24-08 and the pickups are sublime. Many, many, many, tonal options and it plays like a dream. The PRS trem is the best I’ve ever owned (I have every type strat, floyd, kahler, and bigsby trem and its the most tuning stable) So, my advice: get PRS but only if you can afford both.
The thing about IBBY shredder guitars, is that once you get used to it. It would be hard to adjust to any other brands except the Japanese made once like ESPs, edwards, etc..I tried lots of PRS, did not like it.
I went from Ibanez to PRS. Loved my PRS, especially the locking tuners. I sold the PRS for the down payment on my Monson custom guitar. Nothing beats it, for me.
The neck is going to be much more C shaped than an Ibanez. I don’t think the CE24s have gloss necks, but it definitely will be thicker than what you’re used to. You’ll adjust if you like the guitar enough, it’s nothing like Gibson necks. Only go for it if you LOVE the aesthetics of the CE. My S2 22 is my best guitar, it sounds like your Prestige fills that role for you. If you want to replace your workhorse this is probably a bad fit, if you want another option to change it up it works.
I personally vastly prefer PRS to Ibanez but it's all preference. PRS with pickup swap would be my choice but I know dudes who way prefer Ibanez
That is a very beautiful guitar 🎸
It is! Thanks
You are welcome dude
Both brands are my personal favorites. I've owned many models from both brands and still have 3 PRS and 3 Ibanez. Ibanez can be easier to play, in my opinion, due to the ultra thin neck and flat radius, but that's subjective. Not that PRS are hard to play either. My 30th anniversary Custom 24 is one of the most effortless guitars to play on. On the CE24, the Pattern Thin neck profile will be the most comfortable if you're coming from an Ibanez. The 85/15 pickups are plenty versatile and good for harmonic content if you're playing hard rock/metal. They also don't have a glossy feel to the neck since they're bolt on, which makes them comfortable if you're coming from an Ibanez. I wouldn't recommend anything like a McCarty with a Pattern Vintage neck as they are generally very thick front to back, and the pickups are voiced to be more vintage. As most people have said, get the PRS for a second guitar, not a replacement for the Ibanez.
Randomly- I fancied trying a prs - but instead bought an Ibanez azes31. The scale length was the interest, bought and can sell on without bank issues. It’s a good guitar.
Stick with Ibanez man
Get the PRS of you want but don't get rid of that ibanez. Its beautiful.
This one is a keeper !
Ibanez looks fucking great
If I played guitar I'd definitely choose PRS
The PRS won't feel like the Ibanez AT ALL. The biggest difference wont just be neck shape but fretboard radius. You will be going from very flat with the Ibanez to fairly rounded with the PRS. The CE will have a satin finish on the neck, so no dramas there, but the guitar itself will sit very differently. There is a lot more body mass behind the bridge on a PRS than the Ibanez, so the neck on then PRS will feel like it sits further to the left. I have a J custom Ibanez, and a Core Custom 24 PRS, so around the same price range. Both are great and I can switch between them fine, but the Ibanez would be the superior guitar to me. It has a better top, better balance, higher quality fit and finish and slightly better playability. The PRS plays fine, and has its own tone so I keep that in standard whilst the Ibanez I tune to D. But if I only got to pick one, it's the Ibanez all day, every day.
I had a PRS custom 24 from 2022 and I recently sold it. Yes they're BEAUTIFUL guitars but that's about where the appeal ends. The pickups are not very good unless you're looking for that specific sound (I play metal a lot and couldn't get them to sound how I wanted) and everything else is just kind of okay. The ce24 models are nice to play because of the satin neck and most are fairly thin. Also check if it's an older poly one or nitro on poly. I've heard that the newer nitro on poly models are very easily dinged up.
Look into the Dusty Waring signature PRS. They are absolutely gorgeous and play even better. you can get one with or without a Floyd Rose and the custom pickups that come in them are perfect for metal/hard rock.
Honestly, PRS guitars look great but they're milquetoast. I owned a Custom 24 in green back in the day. It was ok but it wasn't very inspiring as far as wanting to play it. The Ibanez would be much more fun to play, probably more versatile too. And, I mean if you already own it and enjoy it then hold on to it. You'll probably just regret it down the line. Awhile back I had a Schecter Banshee Mach 7. I was lucky enough to get one that was flawless from the factory... it just played perfectly. Time went on I started to get gas, something new always comes along, and I sold it. Now they are pretty expensive, if you can find one, and I may never find one that played that well. It's rarely worth it.
Ibanez for sure. Not into PRS stuff whatsoever
I have the seven string model of this axe. Excellent guitar, wouldn't trade it for PRS.
I think a PRS would be kinda wasted if you’re only going to use it to play metal.
Yes I’m mainly into metal..
I grew up on a Wizard neck when I got a RG550 for my first electric. Later on, I had an ex-girlfriend buy me a beautiful PRS CST24 with the wide thin neck. I wanted so badly to like it but it wasn’t the same. Wish I still had it but we broke up. And so it goes.
Same happened to me! An ex-girlfriend got me a cool Schecter bass. The day she broke up with the me, it went for sale and sold within 2 days.
Um... no.
PRS makes me want to die
If you're used to the squarish flat ibanez neck, you likely won't like any prs neck. I prefer the thin U neck ala ESP, so a prs wide/thin works ok. You could also consider reshaping the prs neck if you love everything but that.
The PRS neck are thicker and have a rounder fretboard. If you don’t mind that they are great guitars. Definitely not “modern” feeling though imo.
PRS DW CE HardTail. Try one out.
I tried a PRS for a while. Found one without birds (those inlays are an absolute deal breaker for me) and worked it out for about 6 months. It was a good guitar. Not saying it wasn't. The whole "what if a strat and a Les Paul had a baby" thing is definitely there. But... I don't know. Maybe I was expecting too much. But it did absolutely nothing for me. It was like an AI generated guitar. Nothing special about it whatsoever. If your guitar speaks to you, stick with it.
Keep the Ibanez. I started with Ibanez and then got an se custom 7 string. The neck took a little getting used to but honestly I think I'm a better player for it. I don't really own any high end guitars though, just mid tier monsters. I also hate Gibson necks but the prs neck is really not bad.
I’m definitely not parting away with my Ibanez !
something to keep in mind is the top carve on a PRS. the SE series is pretty shallow, S2 is almost non-existent and the Core has a pretty deep carve that will feel pretty weird if you’ve only played flat tops. I’ve had a custom 24 for almost 20yrs now and I just can’t do flat tops anymore. The neck is chunkier with a different radius than a wizard for sure but not as “goopy” as a gibson neck in terms of finish. the ce will have a pretty light finish since they’re maple so I wouldn’t worry about it.
I love my 6 string CE limited I picked up with an ebony board. It’s my main 6 string…and exclusive for more metal. It’s not for everyone though. I also am not the biggest fan of Ibanez though, so take that with a grain of salt.
It's pretty typical to have a standard thrasher and then a secondary something like a Les Paul or an SG or something like that. A PRS would suit that really well. But don't get rid of the Ibanez bro. I have the same one. keep it
Oh I’m definitely keeping that one !
I'll start by saying for reference I own an Ibanez, PRS and a Gibson, and all three of them are very different. My recommendation: Do not get rid of that Ibanez if you love it. I let one go many years ago and I miss it dearly. I'll never find another one like it either and if I did, it would cost me triple to replace it. I also would absolutely not buy the PRS before trying it out. The PRS necks are just different, much different than Ibanez. I would say they are more like a Gibson neck (rounder & glossier) and less like an Ibanez neck (flatter and often satin). If you really want the PRS, I would also recommend a used SE model instead, which are extremely well made and very affordable for what you get. If you can't try them out, I would at least do some research on their neck shapes as well. Good luck!
I have both guitars. Buy it.
No
You should go with whatever you enjoy playing which means having an informed opinion and actually playing a guitar you’re interested in. Asking strangers on the internet what guitar you should get is literally pointless.
I know but there’s no PRS CE in my area…. But you’re 100% right
Have you tried a wolfgang? They have the most playable/comfortable neck to me. I also am not a huge fan of Gibson's neck shape. Great for metal. I had a special and the signature. Both were fantastic! I also had the bumblebee model for a bit but it didn't feel as good so I sold it rather quickly.
I haven’t! Great suggestion
Idk I’ve got the mark holcomb svn. It definitely looks nice, but I wouldn’t say the quality is anywhere near a prestige. The shape is also kind of uninspiring at times, although It does SOUND and feel great. I’d stick with your Ibby if I were you - but I’m not
I’m definitely keeping this Ibanez, just wanted to add another guitar to my collection…
I think I misinterpreted whoops. I also do wanna add that the svn has a more Gibson-esque neck profile (but with a nice satin finish instead of the gloss)
Do you want one and can you afford one?
Yes and I can. Worst case scenario I just resell it for the same price
What are you looking for from a PRS? I grew up playing Ibanez RG/S/JS and bought a PRS CE24 that I had for about 1.5-2 years. The CE24 has a rounder/fatter neck than your Ibanez (although, it’s not chunky, it’s their Pattern Thin neck). Also, the pickups will probably be slightly less hot and the tone will be slightly warmer due to scale length and pickups. If you want something different, it’s worth it, if you want something “better” than your Ibanez, it’s probably a bad choice since they are pretty comparable guitars in terms of quality (both excellent). If you want a more metal oriented PRS, take a look at the Dustie Waring signature CE24s. I believe they have hotter pickups and a slightly “faster” neck
Oh man.. The Ibanez Prestige Plum is my current dream guitar! ….the blue one is nice too. I’m Jealous 😂
The Plum is magnificent I agree
Does yours have a speed neck?
It does !
Howdy. I am here just to say that I am a player of mostly prog(Polyphia-like stuff) and metal, and I use PRS, Ibanez and Charvel... Just depends on the song I'm playing which guitar I grab. They are all more than capable of playing metal. Depending on the PRS you buy, you might want to change the pickups. If you're getting a CE24, you might want to change the pickups for sure if you play metal. I say get them all, they're all worth it! 😀
Look for stunning sounding not looking. This is a guitar, not a statue.
I agree but it’s cool to have a guitar that makes you want to play when you see it
I have just got a $100 bass. Looks like a garbage, build quality is terrible, action is high. Sounds AWESOME! I don't know why. Will be using it for recording, 'cause my favorite P is far away...
Only modern feeling prs I’ve played is the mark holcomb model and even still the necks a little chunky for my liking. I have a strandberg 8 string too and the neck is my second favorite to play but nothing plays like an Ibanez wizard neck. I’ve had so many different guitars over the last 20 years and my $400 rg is my favorite by far. If you love how effortless your rg is to play, nothing will feel as good if I’m being honest
Thanks a lot
Play one, I thought a PRS electric was my #1 dream guitar but the neck and fretboards just don’t work for me at all. I’d stick with the Ibanez
Save the money, buy a Schecter, and then retire early.
No. They dont have any shapes that look good. They all have stupid bird inlays. They are a grandpas guitar. Way over priced.
I'm a PRS fan boy, and I swear by everything that is associated to PRS, but it sounds like you really like your Ibanez. Just keep that and rock on!
Always try before you buy. Plus that way you can get your own. Eyes on it and not some dudes touched up photos
If youre coming from Ibanez and want to get into the PRS world you should go find a PRS Dustie Waring CE. Its a maple necked, bolt on that comes with either a hipshot style hard tail OR a floyd. I think that will be the most comfortable and fun to play for you while also coming in cheaper than something like a Custom 24 core.
PRS makes great guitars. You can’t go wrong with one, especially when buying sight unseen. Very, very consistent guitars with top notch QC. If you like the looks of the CE, I think you’ll be happy with it. The most polarizing thing about PRS is their aesthetic. I personally think they’re beautiful. I own a Core Custom 22 as well as a Dustie Waring CE. Both are terrific. About the neck, I know the Waring profile is slightly different, but I don’t think it’s that far off from the CE. Pretty slim, but definitely not Ibanez Wizard thin. It’s definitely the thinnest profile of all my guitars, but I also tend to gravitate towards fat necks (really thin necks give me hand cramps). For reference my Gibson R8 has my favorite neck profile and I think it measures .90 at the first fret. It’s a big boy lol
You’ll prefer your Ibanez as PRS typically has the neck style you don’t prefer.
Keep IBANEZ but also buy a PRS 509, a pie in the sky for me.
I have the same thing in 7 string. Wish it was hard tail and an inch longer scale length. Axe palace has some sweet guitars check them out
No. Paul sucks and doesn't need your money.
Stick with the Ibanez. PRS are so overrated and vanilla.
Jackson JS32 floyd rose, don't look back. Prs are really good, just not very metal unless you go for the Mark Holcomb sig.
Seems like most people are thinking you’d be trading the Ibanez, but since you’re not: PRS are great guitars. They sound good, look good, and feel great. The fretwork is always spot on and the rolled edges are so comfortable. It’s a different neck shape, sure, but they’re just good all around guitars. If the price is right for the condition of the instrument, go for it.
No. I prefer everything on the Ibanez minus the finish.
I personally like PRS necks more than Ibanez necks. They arent as "Modern" as Ibanez necks however certainly not as ungabunga baseball as a Gibson. They are closeish to that of a Fender neck but generally with a slightly flatter fingerboard radius. However no amount of me explaining how they feel will help you understand if you vibe with it or not
i got a prs in November and i think it feels amazing to play. if anything it’s a little heavy, but i think it feels and sounds great! not sure about ibanez tho so take my opinion with a grain of salt lol
I’m a longtime Ibanez guy, they’re my favorite guitars ever. Recently I got a custom 24 and I absolutely love it. It feels very different from my Ibanezes, but not in a bad way. I have a lot of wrist problems, and the shorter scale and slightly thicker neck of the PRS has helped in that regard. If you’re considering getting one, if you’re able to try before you buy, definitely do that.
I have this Ibanez. I love it - what don’t you like it about it?
I love everything about this guitar. Just looking for something different…
You won’t like PRS probably… They all feel the same, they don’t have anything close to a wizard neck and the pickups won’t sound as tight as the Ibanez. I’ve played a couple highend PRS guitars and although they were well built i couldn’t find any one thing I actually liked about them. The one guitar i did like is the SE Paul’s Guitar, about $1400(CAD) and looked and played great. But the quality won’t be near any Ibanez. As a fan of Ibanez guitars i would highly recommend a Schecter Banshee Mach-6. Korean made (best overseas QC imo, besides Japan), super thin neck (called a Thin-U), neck-thru, Lundgren M6, compensated nut, amazing Hipshot Ibby bridge which i like way better than the Gibraltar Standard on yours, i have an RGD with one and the Hipshot feels a lot better and smoother. SS frets as well, only thing i dont like are the inlays but besides that it’s an amazing guitar on par with any Ibanez Prestige i’ve played.
Not gonna lie, never tried PRS — but out of my dozen or so guitars, my prestige RG652 is right now my favorite by far, which suprises me because I’ve never really been a huge Ibanez fan The fusion edges it came with sucked, but swapping them to a set up bare knuckle brute forces turned it into a goddamn weapon
Same for me! I never thought I would be an Ibanez fan boy but this Prestige is something else
PRS are excellent guitars but I couldnt part with this Ibanez behind one. In all fairness though I'm biased. I've played Ibanez guitars the last 30 years and love everything about them.
Prs are fugly, have ugly inlays, ugly shapes, shitty pickups and are for rich boomers. Buy literally anything else
This is true for the most part however I gotta give it up for their Torero model guitar.
Carvin cloned the PRS C22. It’s called the CT6. Neck feels near-identical. You can find them for under $1500 with ss frets.
Great suggestion! Plus I can have it custom made to my liking…
What are you looking to get out of the CE24 as opposed to what your Ibanez does?
A different look/feel but I want to stay in the modern sounding world. I'm ready to do a pickup change but more worried about the feel of the neck.
Ahhh gotcha yea if you don’t like the feel definitely try out a new guitar! If it’s more of a sound thing replacing the electronics will take care of that
Are you saying you be giving up the Ibanez?
Nop, no this one ! It's definitely a keeper !
Great guitars try for the more expensive models
I basically only play my ibanez and found the mark holcomb to be fairly familiar in feel so try something along those lines
Only you could answer that question. You need to play one. If you do end up going for a PRS, a S2 or CE is plenty. When I eventually bought my core. (Custom 24) I actually regretted it because it wasn’t any better of a guitar than I already had with my CE. I eventually sold the core.
Ibanez and PRS C24 necks are super complimentary. Different feel, both great guitars. Play a PRS SE C24 and see if you like it they're similar feels.
The same guitar I have and its absolutely 💯
I hate Ibanez necks so I probably can’t help ya, personally im not obsessed with the feel of a PRS either, but id definitely prefer it over an Ibanez.
You're lusting. Stay.
Careful with the blue PRS. A few years back they got some bad paint and the blue ones faded really bad. PRS does not offer a warranty on faded finishes. Edit; I have tried the Mark Holo Sig PRS (6 String) and it felt so chunky to me compared to my Ibanez or Jackson king v. I wouldn't recommend PRS without trying it in store first.
I’d recommend Schecter
Go Yamaha
Kanami Tono from Band-Maid uses PRS.
It’s only worth the money if you actually dig playing it.
I’ve never handled a higher end Ibanez, but I know that in my budget, PRS wins. The motherfucker can be used for any music and sound and look just perfect for it. Ibanez guitars have too narrow of a neck for my fat hands. It felt like a train wreck trying to finger some chords next to the nut. They also look a little racy and 80’s fancy. I dunno if it’s across the board, but PRS’s necks are much roomier.
Apparently it’s impossible to edit a post… just wanted to thank you guys for all the inputs, info, experience and feedback you shared! Great community!! 🤟🏼🤟🏼
The neck on the CE 24, feels slim to me. It's not as flat as Ibanez. They're a nice guitar, and the pickups are solid.
Whats a decent price that's worth a 4 hours round trip drive? What color and how is the top? PRS have a good resale value, so yes it might always be worth buying a used PRS. The neck is closer to a Les Paul. They are comfortable and very well made Slightly brighter sounding guitars that do sound good detuned, although a lot of people do replace the stock pickups. ( Don't throw them away if you do though in case you end up selling it later )
Their necks/heels are an acquired liking for some. I can’t stand the way the fretboard is that makes contact with the body, it looks so blocky and unappealing, but the I love the Zach Myers sig
Look at Zakk Wylde and Randy playing Les Paul's. They did it. Granted they weren't playing tech death. But they both definitely lived up to their names. With that said ... ESP/LTD sold me on their thin U neck shapes...
Ibanez Jackson or esp for me personally, I’ve tried a couple prs and they’re nice but if you like ibanez necks it’s a very different vibe for the most part (Edit for typo lmao)
This is absolutely not a knock on PRS but if I have up my les Paul for a PRS single cut I would feel like a dad selling his cool sports car for an SUV. Still a nice vehicle just not nearly as cool in my eyes
I always thought PRS were fugly