Over spend on an SE? Lol, check out mine!!

[garrett]

This is the one I used.

PRS Pattern Regular Slotted Nut Pack of 2 | eBay

They are self lubricating and compatible with both PRS tremolo and stoptail guitars with pattern regular neck shapes. Official PRS Slotted Nut for Pattern Regular necks. Compatible with both PRS tremolo and stoptail guitars.

www.ebay.co.uk

Reliable retailer as well.

You probably don't want Pattern Regular though (or maybe you do). That's the slightly narrower one.

Wider one: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/324648161786?hash=item4b9689d1fa:g:JugAAOSwPDNg8Rsy


I personally would have a good local luthier cut a custom bone nut. Unless specs have changed, using a core nut on an SE would leave a gap between it and the truss rod cover.

 

[NazgulUK]

Ooooo! I love the top! Yup! SE 245s are killer!

Thanks, this one is a beauty

Coupled with my one-off Well-Hung Shock & Awe leather strap it's my favourite guitar.

 

[NazgulUK]

You probably don't want Pattern Regular though (or maybe you do). That's the slightly narrower one.

Wider one: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/324648161786?hash=item4b9689d1fa:g:JugAAOSwPDNg8Rsy


I personally would have a good local luthier cut a custom bone nut. Unless specs have changed, using a core nut on an SE would leave a gap between it and the truss rod cover.

Thanks Garrett

 

[NazgulUK]

This is the one I used.

PRS Pattern Regular Slotted Nut Pack of 2 | eBay

They are self lubricating and compatible with both PRS tremolo and stoptail guitars with pattern regular neck shapes. Official PRS Slotted Nut for Pattern Regular necks. Compatible with both PRS tremolo and stoptail guitars.

www.ebay.co.uk

Reliable retailer as well.

Thanks Reub!

 

[Alnus Rubra]

You probably don't want Pattern Regular though (or maybe you do). That's the slightly narrower one.

Wider one: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/324648161786?hash=item4b9689d1fa:g:JugAAOSwPDNg8Rsy


I personally would have a good local luthier cut a custom bone nut. Unless specs have changed, using a core nut on an SE would leave a gap between it and the truss rod cover.

Thanks Garrett for keeping me right.

My eBay history showed these purchased in Dec ‘20, they may have been for something else entirely. Oops, sorry @NazgulUK.

Again, the combination of tuners/nut/brass posts did all make a positive change.

 

[Ruben Bernard]

So, I got a hair-brained idea a few weeks back. I had bought a thrashed 1992 Epiphone Les Paul for $199 @ GC, and it was a beast of a player. However, it wasn't a PRS.

Since moving to TN I am living a simpler life. Instead of continuing to work in education, I took a job as Human Resources Coordinator at a little regional grocery chain. While much more relaxing, it came with a $40,000 pay cut.

With that said, I am just no longer in the market for Core and higher PRS guitars. A little sad, but not really. I am happier in my new, slower life.

So, back to the SE....having the singlecut itch, and remembering the sheer perfection that was my 2008 SC245 57/08 I knew what I needed. With Core 245s out of the reach of my wallet, it was SE time.

Whenever I am after a new PRS I start at Dave's. I have bought quite a few from him the last few years, including my ME-V. Well, I was hunting a Zack Meyers model, but ended up with a charcoal burst 245. Cool. The price? VERY affordable. So, how did I overspend?

Lol, by making the SE as close to my 57/08 Ltd as possible. I'm not done, so I'll need to add updates to the thread. But, here's the rundown and a couple pics so far.

The partslist.

From John Mann:
* Gold polepieces
* SE locking tuners
* MannMade USA adjustable wraparound tail piece
* Satin brass bridge posts

From PRS:
* 57/08 pickups
* low ivory pickup rings
* (3) clear lampshades
* gold screws

From Hipshot:
* gold tuner buttons

From Gotoh:
* JCB-2 oval jackplate - Nickel

From Gunstreet Wiring Shop:
* Custom harness details - PRS High Pass filter with coil cuts.
* (2) US spec 500K CTS pots
* (2) US spec 500K CTS push/pull pots
* (2) CDE 0.022uF orange drop caps
* Switchcraft toggle switch
* Rean output jack

* (1) cream chicken head knob for the neck pickup volume pot.

I am in for $1350. Why no S2? Well, considering that I am almost into the cost of a new SE for the parts list alone, I couldn't justify the cost of a used or new S2 594SC. The parts HAD to mimic (mostly) what was on my 245 57/08. Plus, I prefer the old 4 knob layout, with the bridge volume on top, up close....

Here's a couple pics so far. I'm waiting on the bridge, jackplate, and knobs to arrive. Still have to order a TRC, even though I usually keep them off.

https://flic.kr/p/2naJxVH

https://flic.kr/p/2naHpP3

The locking tuners look awesome!!! I've had a look on MannMade, but cant seem to find them. any chance you could link?

 

[dmatthews]

The locking tuners look awesome!!! I've had a look on MannMade, but cant seem to find them. any chance you could link?

MannMade USA SE Locking Tuner Set - Chrome

Sales and service of world class guitars, amps and parts. PRS Guitars Signature Dealer. MannMade USA parts

www.johnmannsguitarvault.com

Or from PRS

PRS SE Locking Tuners, Chrome

Upgrade your current stock SE tuning machines with these direct replacement locking tuners. Change them out in a snap! *Direct replacement for PRS-Designed SE Tuners. Vintage Style tuners have a different mounting screw footprint.

us.prsaccessories.com

 

[markd21]

Thems the ones!! I added the gold tuner buttons. Those came from Hipshot:

Guitar Tuner Buttons (Sold Individually)

Instructions Big Butterbean Plastic Dimensions Big Butterbean Metal Dimensions Butterbean Metal & Plastic Dimensions Deco Metal Dimensions Delta Plastic Dimensions Delta Metal Dimensions Hex Plastic Dimensions Hex Metal Dimensions Half Moon Mini Plastic Dimensions Half Moon Mini Metal Dimensions...

hipshotproducts.com

 

[Corwin1968]

I'm a beginner and went thru three other guitars before getting my SE 245. For me, even as a beginner, the neck on the SE 245 is just perfection. I can't imagine a neck feeling better. I might move up to an S2 McCarty 594 but I have plans for the 245.

Today, I swapped in the PRS SE locking tuners and installing the strings for the first time made them worth every penny. My 245 is light (6.95 lbs on my kitchen scale) to begin with, but with the tuners and stoptail bridge removed, it felt almost weightless, like the whole thing was hollow.

I've added black knobs, which I'm second-guessing already. I had planned to change to black pickup frames, but am second guessing that as well. I definately want to change the pickups and electronics, sometime down the line. Based on the videos I've been able to find, PRS 57-08's, an SD Jazz for the neck, or Seth Lovers are on the list.

 

[ScottR]

I'm a beginner and went thru three other guitars before getting my SE 245. For me, even as a beginner, the neck on the SE 245 is just perfection. I can't imagine a neck feeling better. I might move up to an S2 McCarty 594 but I have plans for the 245.

Today, I swapped in the PRS SE locking tuners and installing the strings for the first time made them worth every penny. My 245 is light (6.95 lbs on my kitchen scale) to begin with, but with the tuners and stoptail bridge removed, it felt almost weightless, like the whole thing was hollow.

I've added black knobs, which I'm second-guessing already. I had planned to change to black pickup frames, but am second guessing that as well. I definately want to change the pickups and electronics, sometime down the line. Based on the videos I've been able to find, PRS 57-08's, an SD Jazz for the neck, or Seth Lovers are on the list.

You’ll find a LOT of love for the SE245 up in here. In one variation or another they are just great guitars. If you love the neck on the 245 don’t go play a S2 McCarty 594…I mean unless you plan on buying one anyway.

You’ve listed some killer pickup choices as well. I’ve upgraded my 245 to Seth Lovers and it’s really a beast now! I’ll probably upgrade to the 57/08’s in the 594. They are hands down my favorite, just a little punchy as far as pice goes, but well worth it IMHO.

 

[Bowtiefanatc]

I think I’m about $1000 in on my SE Semi Hollow after my upgrades. I’ll post photos when I complete it this week.

 

[Corwin1968]

You’ll find a LOT of love for the SE245 up in here. In one variation or another they are just great guitars. If you love the neck on the 245 don’t go play a S2 McCarty 594…I mean unless you plan on buying one anyway.

You’ve listed some killer pickup choices as well. I’ve upgraded my 245 to Seth Lovers and it’s really a beast now! I’ll probably upgrade to the 57/08’s in the 594. They are hands down my favorite, just a little punchy as far as pice goes, but well worth it IMHO.

I'm glad to hear the S2 McCarty 594 has a similar neck!! The local stores only have a handful of PRS's to try and none have been a 594. I've handled some S2's, but not that model. There's a good chance I'll pick up an S2 in the future. I love the SE 245, but I also find the Made in the U.S.A. aspect of the S2 line to be very appealing. I just wish the thinline colors were available in the regular 594's.

 

[Fullmoon 1971]

All of my SE's have been modded - usually to the point where the parts cost more than the guitar.

A few examples (The rest are all in the Modded SE Thread) These 3 cost well in excess of the guitars, But are fully reverseable if I chose to sell them (never gonna happen with these 3)

My main gigging guitars Bernies #1 & #2

I love my 2001 McCarty so when I saw the "Joe Walsh" McCarty, I decided to make a Bernie Marsden version.

Vinyl headstock overlay with Cream "Bernie" signature
Bone nut
Custom Ebony & MOP "McCarty" TRC
Gotoh SD-90 HAP machineheads
PRS McCarty pickups
PRS "Core" aluminium wraparound tailpiece
Brass tailpiece studs (not shown inpicture)
Brass tailpiece stud wells (not shown on Picture)
Replaced wiring with custom made version
CTS pots with 2 push / pull volume pots to split the pickups
Russian K40P-2 .022 Paper In Oil capacitor
PRS "core" amber lampshade knobs
Wide nickel strap buttons
Pure Tone (4 point) Jack Socket

This is the first PRS I ever owned and started my total fixation.

Vinyl headstock overlay with Cream "Bernie" signature
Bone nut
Custom Ebony & MOP TRC
Gotoh SD-90 HAP machineheads
Custom wound "Peter Green" inspired neck pickup reverse wound with 42 heavy formvar wire
Custom wound "PAF" inspired bridge pickup
ABM aluminium wraparound tailpiece
Nickel plated tailpiece studs
Brass tailpiece stud wells
Replaced wiring with custom made version
CTS pots
Russian K40P-2 .022 Paper In Oil capacitor
Dark amber bell knobs
Wide nickel strap buttons
Pure Tone (4 point) Jack Socket

This is my Santana / Custom 22 DC / Maria Goodwin signature model.
This is my tribute to my wife who as some of you know passed away early this year, Though it was mine it seemed to spend more time in her hands. She loved the shape of it but loved the sound of my Core standard 22 with its Dragon II's. When the chance came I managed to get some DII's and a Brass hybrid bridge and it became her main practice guitar (though she still claimed it was mine) she played fit or about 7 years but wanted to something to the fretboard, we then found a neck overlay that she loved (sadly she passed away without ever seeing it applied)

Vinyl headstock overlay with black eagle decal
PRS "core" nut
Custom Ebony and MOP "Doves" TRC
Gotoh SG-381 machineheads
Ebony tuner buttons
Custom fretboard overlay
PRS Dragon II pickups
Gold pole pieces
Milled solid brass hybrid tremolo
Replaced wiring with custom made version
CTS pots
Russian K40P-2 .022 Paper In Oil capacitor
5 way rotary switch
Russian K40P-2 .022 Paper In Oil capacitor
"Core" amber lampshade knobs
Wide nickel strap buttons
Pure Tone (4 point) Jack Socket
PRS "core" amber lampshade knobs
Wide nickel strap buttons
Pure Tone (4 point) Jack Socket

 

[Bowtiefanatc]

Only missing the soft spring for the Bigsby and then this SE will be all set.

 

[Bowtiefanatc]

Started off life as an SE Custom Semi Hollow Ltd Run. I think that I’m done with the upgrades on this one!

Upgrades:
Core Starla Pickups
Callaham Bigsby String Thru Bar
Callaham Bigsby String Guide
Reverend Soft Spring
TonePros Roller Bridge
Core Nut
Push/Push Tone Pot
Ebony Phase II Tuner Buttons
Hipshot Vol & Tone Knobs

 

[Draconomics]

Started off life as an SE Custom Semi Hollow Ltd Run. I think that I’m done with the upgrades on this one!

Upgrades:
Core Starla Pickups
Callaham Bigsby String Thru Bar
Callaham Bigsby String Guide
Reverend Soft Spring
TonePros Roller Bridge
Core Nut
Push/Push Tone Pot
Ebony Phase II Tuner Buttons
Hipshot Vol & Tone Knobs

Wowza! Never saw one of those in red sparkle. That's really cool. Hows the Bigsby? I've never has an axe with one, but I was always intrigued by em.

 

[Mark burgess]

Here is my over spent
Kluson Revolution locking tuners
Graphtec Tusq Nut
Musiclily toggle switch
Musically donut
Musically speed knobs
Schaller S locks (gold)
Schaller signum bridge (gold)
Dimazio full size pots
Cap plus coil tap .
Gotah football jack cover
Switch craft jack socket
Hiscox LP Case

 

[bodia]

Here is my over spent
Kluson Revolution locking tuners
Graphtec Tusq Nut
Musiclily toggle switch
Musically donut
Musically speed knobs
Schaller S locks (gold)
Schaller signum bridge (gold)
Dimazio full size pots
Cap plus coil tap .
Gotah football jack cover
Switch craft jack socket
Hiscox LP Case

Looks great

 

[Draconomics]

Here is my over spent
Kluson Revolution locking tuners
Graphtec Tusq Nut
Musiclily toggle switch
Musically donut
Musically speed knobs
Schaller S locks (gold)
Schaller signum bridge (gold)
Dimazio full size pots
Cap plus coil tap .
Gotah football jack cover
Switch craft jack socket
Hiscox LP Case

Wowza! Looks sweet.

...although, the Egnater cabs trigger me...long story. Lol

 

[Alnus Rubra]

Congratulations, really nice mods.

Love the Schaller Signum bridge, such a beautifully engineered piece of kit.

Edit - spell checker has it in for me.