I have a 1990 Custom that I love, but I have recently purchased a 2012 408, so the Custom can be retired after serving me well. Here are the main differences that I observe in the old vs new PRS guitars. My 1990 has a Wide Thin neck, that is really thin. The 408 has a Pattern Thin neck that is larger. I love both necks. The fret sizes are larger & taller now. I don't think there is anything that is better about an older PRS. I actually think the models in the last few years are better than the older ones. I have played my 1990 Custom at local gigs for 20 years, and I have never had to adjust the neck or repair anything. It is hard to go wrong with any PRS no matter the year.