Some background:
I already own a Core Custom 24 and an American Ultra Strat, and wanted something hollow to round out my collection. I don't want to be 'a collector', but do want to cover all the bases in as few guitars as possible, and as lovely guitars as possible. And I think this one makes the collection complete*.
I went to a shop to try some, pretty confident I'd be walking out that day with an ES-335. I tried a few ES-series guitars. While I loved the tones, I was disappointed in the quality and finishing. I wasn't pleased with the playability, but I didn't expect that to be great. So I tried, among other things, a PRS HB2 and HB McCarty. Loved the way they felt. The best looking one in the shop was a McCarty in Trampas Green. I was attracted to it mainly because of the contrast of stained figured front against the natural sides.
I went away for a think, and decided I'd prefer the piezo functionality over the push-pull functionality, so wanted a HB2 Piezo.
Scoured the country for a colour I liked that looks like a good piece of wood. Bought this one.
*I will concede that 2 years ago when I bought the custom24, I thought that would be versatile enough that I would only need one guitar in my collection. But it turns out I'm weaker than I thought. But now I really do think these 3 will render my collection complete**.
**ok, maybe not quite. I'd still like a private stock some day. Maybe in years to come when the mortgage is paid off