The Origin of S2
S2, standing for "Stevensville 2," was originally named for a second manufacturing line first developed after our move from Annapolis into the Stevensville, Maryland factory. The goal was to build these reimagined guitars at a more affordable price for players. Now, the S2 Series is fully integrated into the same production line as our Core and Bolt-On instruments.
S2, Bolt-ons, and Affordability
Why are S2 and bolt-ons more affordable than Core models? From the beginning, the S2 and Bolt-on models start with a smaller dimensioned top wood with subtler figure. The starting dimension of the neck wood is also much smaller, made possible by utilizing a scarf joint construction process.
Scarf construction, combined with a unique order of operations in which we radius and fret the fretboard before attaching it to the neck, results in an efficient build process that creates a durable, comfortable, playable neck.
The Satin-finished S2 guitars also go through a faster finish process than high-gloss models.
All of this and more leads to a more affordable guitar.
The Scarfed Neck
A scarf joint is an angled joint made from two pieces of wood that are cut at complementary angles and glued together. On the PRS S2 series, the neck begins with a quartersawn mahogany neck blank. That blank is cut, the headstock is scarfed, and the heel is created using a slip joint - all from one piece of wood.
This construction method allows us to start with a smaller amount of raw material, and the large glue surface area on the scarfed neck results in a very strong joint.
S2 Electronics
As of March 2024, all guitars in the S2 Series now come with Maryland-made pickups and electronics. That means for the first time ever, PRS S2 models feature PRS's renowned 85/15, 58/15 LT, and our proprietary Narrowfield and TCI pickups - made right here in our Maryland shop.
The S2 Series now also comes with the same electronics as PRS Core instruments, including potentiometers with extreme audio tapers and other components with custom-designed features.
S2 and Bolt-on Cases
The S2 and Bolt-on models, much like the SE models, are designed and built for the working musician. Thus, these guitars come with gigbags as opposed to hardshell cases. Even so, we may offer a hardshell case that could work for your S2!
For case compatibility information, visit the following link: Which ATA Multi-fit Molded Case will fit my PRS? – PRS Guitars