Do I want a CE24? (maybe semi-hollow)

[Markal]

I'm feeling GASeous. Starting to jam with a new group playing a mix of funk, soul, blues, and some pop-rock. I have an S2 Singlecut Standard from about 2016 or 2017 that is my #1. Love that guitar. But it can be a little dark. I have a tele and a Strat-style guitar but generally prefer humbuckers, especially with coil taps when I need a wide variety of sounds.

I'm thinking I'd like something a little brighter with a little more snap. And I really prefer satin necks. Hence my interest in the CE24. The demos I've heard of the core CE24s increase my interest, but I'd probably have to go used for a core model. I'm not crazy about the SEs (mostly the looks) but I'd consider one.

Thoughts? How much would the CE24 differ from my Singlecut? I assume a lot but would like to hear from those who have spent time with both. They have thinner necks right? Thanks.

 

[SinSir]

Nothing alike to the singlecut. Go for it!

New CE wouldn't be core. They are US bolt on. Older CE are core level. Both great guitars and steals to be had.

 

[RC Mike]

Used versions of the 2008 and older CE24 and the current 2016-present CE24 are in the same ballpark, in terms of cost. The old model is objectively better than the current model, but your preferences might lead you to the current model. Try them both, if you can. The name is the same but the guitars are quite different from each other.

 

[Rocketscientist90]

What are the main differences between the old and new versions?

 

[RC Mike]

What are the main differences between the old and new versions?

Guitar	2008 and Earlier	2016 and Later
Neck	One Piece	Scarf joint headstock
Neck Carve	Wide-Thin	Pattern Thin
Body Carve	Same as Core	Shallow Violin
Inlays	Abalone Dots	Plastic Birds
Pickups	Same as Core	Same as Core
Tuners	Same as Core	Same as S2
Electronics	Same as Core	Same as S2
Trem	Same as Core	Same as SE/S2
Cavity Covers	Recessed	Surface
Body Thickness	Cap/Body Same as Core	Thinner?
Case	Case	Gig bag

The 2008 and earlier CEs get referred to as Core, but they were discontinued before Core became a distinction. They’re basically Customs with bolt-on Maple necks and tops that aren’t generally as nice as you’d see on a Custom.

They’re 2016+ reintroduced CE24s are an entirely different guitar. Only the name is the same. They’re a tier above the S2s. Now that S2s have US pickups, there’s a lot less clarity as to why the CE is priced more than the S2s. The top carve is different. Beyond that and the neck attachment/wood, not a lot of difference from an S2.

The older CEs had a 20-year run, so there are a lot of variations within that time. What I put in the table were the common features.

 

[Rocketscientist90]

Thanks for the extensive write-up!

Edit: typo. I meant to say extensive instead of expensive

 

[SinSir]

Guitar	2008 and Earlier	2016 and Later
Neck	One Piece	Scarf joint headstock
Neck Carve	Wide-Thin	Pattern Thin
Body Carve	Same as Core	Shallow Violin
Inlays	Abalone Dots	Plastic Birds
Pickups	Same as Core	Same as Core
Tuners	Same as Core	Same as S2
Electronics	Same as Core	Same as S2
Trem	Same as Core	Same as SE/S2
Cavity Covers	Recessed	Surface
Body Thickness	Cap/Body Same as Core	Thinner?
Case	Case	Gig bag

The 2008 and earlier CEs get referred to as Core, but they were discontinued before Core became a distinction. They’re basically Customs with bolt-on Maple necks and tops that aren’t generally as nice as you’d see on a Custom.

They’re 2016+ reintroduced CE24s are an entirely different guitar. Only the name is the same. They’re a tier above the S2s. Now that S2s have US pickups, there’s a lot less clarity as to why the CE is priced more than the S2s. The top carve is different. Beyond that and the neck attachment/wood, not a lot of difference from an S2.

The older CEs had a 20-year run, so there are a lot of variations within that time. What I put in the table were the common features.

Nice write up.. personally I feel the s2 and CE are now equal besides price. Sure the carve is different but that's more of a personal preference to me. I find the s2 carve super comfy. The only changes I'd make to the chart is electronics. Newer CE Electronics are the same as core. Though technically accurate since S2 and Core electronics are the same now. Theres also some older CE floating out there with birds.

Agreed, lots of variations over the years for older CE. Like available as a CE22 with a widefat carve and certain years had Alder bodies. I have a 08 all Alder CE22 widefat hanging on the wall now.

 

[AgusAD]

Definitely aim for an older model CE-22 or 24. Dig around and get the one you like the most (plenty of wood and pickup configurations to choose from).

 

[gush]

No you do not want A ce.........you want a herd of CEs........we should come up with a term for several CEs.

Gaggle, clutch, litter.......you get the idea.

 

[c340]

CE-24 SH was mostly what I based my private stock order on. Its an absolutely fantastic, fantastic guitar.

 

[aamefford]

Yes.




(Somebody had to.)