Overview

The PRS S2 Vela is a distinctive offset-inspired electric guitar from Paul Reed Smith's American-made S2 line that offers a unique tonal character unlike anything else in the PRS catalog. The mahogany body is carved with subtle comfort contours and paired with a set maple neck that adds brightness and snap to the guitar's naturally warm foundation. The Type D single-coil in the neck and Starla humbucker in the bridge create an unusual and highly versatile pickup combination " the neck delivers chimey, clear tones reminiscent of classic single-coil sparkle, while the bridge humbucker provides fat, punchy drive with smooth compression and excellent harmonic response. The push-pull tone knob splits the bridge humbucker for additional single-coil voicings, expanding the tonal palette further. PRS's signature build quality is evident throughout, with flawless fretwork, a perfectly shaped Pattern Regular neck that fits naturally in most hand sizes, and the PRS adjustable stoptail bridge that offers precise intonation with vintage-style string anchoring. The unique body shape and pickup configuration give the Vela a visual and sonic identity that stands apart from traditional designs. This guitar is ideal for intermediate to advanced players across rock, indie, country, and blues who want an American-made PRS with its own personality. The unconventional aesthetic may not appeal to players who prefer the traditional PRS Custom silhouette.

Electric Guitars

Distinctive offset-inspired PRS with a unique Type D single-coil and Starla humbucker combination, offering a sonic personality unlike anything else in the lineup.

Instrument Details

$1,699 Advanced
Brand PRS
Type Electric Guitar
Made In United States
Year 2016
4.7 1 vote

AI Reviews

4.7 /5

The S2 Vela is the 'black sheep' of the PRS family in the best way possible. While the brand is often associated with flame-maple luxury, the Vela leans into a gritty, offset aesthetic that feels more at home in an indie club than a showroom. The mahogany body provides a punchy midrange, but the set maple neck and plate-style bridge introduce a 'snap' and chime that separates it from its Custom 24 siblings.

Sonically, the pairing of the Starla humbucker and the Type D single-coil is a masterstroke. The bridge offers a bright, vintage-voiced growl that avoids the compression of high-output pickups, while the neck pickup provides a glassy, DeArmond-inspired clarity that handles fuzz and overdrive beautifully. It's exceptionally versatile, especially with the push-pull coil tap. The Pattern Regular neck carve is tactile and fast, offering a comfortable middle ground for both rhythm work and lead runs.

The main trade-off is the utilitarian aesthetic"it lacks the ornate flourishes of the Core line"and the top-loading bridge, while resonant, offers less intonation granularity than a modern hardtail. However, for the professional seeking a unique USA-made workhorse that breaks the PRS mold, the Vela is a tonal powerhouse that offers incredible value for its price point.

Category Ratings

Electric Guitars
4.7
Feb 15, 2026
AI-Generated Review Generated via Google API. This is an automated evaluation, not a consumer review. Learn more
PRS S2 Vela Screenshot

Added: Feb 12, 2026

prsguitars.com/electrics/s2_vela