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Average Price: $1,062
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Description
Fusing the timeless allure of vintage design with a modern twist, the Paul Reed Smith Vela redefines what you expect from a guitar. This striking instrument features an offset mahogany body that effortlessly marries a classic silhouette with contemporary flair. Designed for musicians who crave versatility, the Vela brings an eclectic mix of tonal options courtesy of its unique pickup configuration. The bridge pickup delivers a bold, punchy sound, while the neck pickup provides smooth, articulate tones—perfect for any genre from blues to rock to jazz.
Crafted with the meticulous attention to detail that PRS is renowned for, the Vela stands out not just in appearance, but in performance. The guitar’s playability is enhanced by a comfortable neck profile, ensuring that whether you're riffing on stage or jamming in a studio, your fingers will glide effortlessly across the fretboard. A true testament to PRS craftsmanship, the Vela is a reliable and inspiring companion for every musician’s journey.
Key Features:
- Offset mahogany body for a unique aesthetic and balanced tone
- Versatile pickup configuration for a broad tonal palette
- Comfortable neck profile for enhanced playability
- Precision-crafted with PRS’s renowned attention to detail
Product specs
| Brand | PRS |
| Model | S2 Vela |
| Finish | Antique White, Black, Champagne Gold Metallic, Egyptian Gold Metallic, Frost Blue Metallic, Frost Green Metallic, Ice Blue Fire Mist, Mahi Blue, McCarty Tobacco Sunburst, Scarlet Sunburst, Seafoam Green, Sienna, Space Blue, Vintage Cherry, Vintage Mahogany, Walnut |
| Year | 2015 - 2025 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Solid Body Electric Guitars |
| Body Material | Mahogany |
| Body Shape | Double Cutaway |
| Body Type | Solid Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | String-Through, Top-Load |
| Color Family | Black, Blue, Brown, Gold, Green, Natural, Red, White |
| Finish Features | Matching Headstock |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Finish Style | Gloss, Metallic |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Fretboard Radius | 10" |
| Model Family | PRS Vela |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Neck Material | Mahogany |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Offset Body | Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | HH, HS |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 25" |
| Series | PRS S2 |
| Wood Top Style | Opaque, Plain |
FAQs
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What kind of neck profile does the PRS S2 Vela have?
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The PRS S2 Vela features a "Pattern Regular" neck profile, which offers a comfortable grip suitable for a variety of playing styles, balancing between traditional and modern feel.
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What pickups are included in the PRS S2 Vela, and how do they affect the sound?
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The PRS S2 Vela is equipped with an S2 Type-D single-coil in the neck and an S2 Starla humbucker in the bridge, providing a versatile range of tones from bright and clear to thick and powerful, ideal for genres like rock and blues.
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Is the PRS S2 Vela suitable for gigging?
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Yes, the PRS S2 Vela is well-suited for gigging with its sturdy construction, versatile pickup configuration, and reliable tuning stability, making it a dependable choice for live performances.
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Does the PRS S2 Vela support coil tapping?
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Yes, the PRS S2 Vela includes a push/pull tone control that allows coil tapping, enabling players to switch between humbucking and single-coil tones for added versatility.
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What materials are used in the construction of the PRS S2 Vela?
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The PRS S2 Vela features a mahogany body and neck with a rosewood fretboard, offering a warm and resonant tone with a smooth playing surface.
Videos
PRS Guitars
The PRS S2 Vela
Reviews
PROS
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Lightweight design makes it comfortable for extended playing sessions
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Versatile sound covers a broad range of musical styles
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Unique S2 bridge enhances attack and brightness
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High-quality finishes feel smooth and non-sticky
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Comfortable neck radius with a substantial, easy-to-hold feel
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Locking tuners and smooth fret finish enhance playability
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Resonant mahogany body even acoustically
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Pickups offer clear, bell-like tones and gritty growl
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Easy pickup customization with standard fit
CONS
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Push/pull pot and switch may introduce static noise
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Action might require adjustment for optimal playability
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about PRS Paul Reed Smith Vela.
Setup and maintenance
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Installing a CTS switch for $25 can resolve faulty switch issues and save significant repair costs.
Source
Mods and upgrades
Features and functionality
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The bridge pickup split coil maintains consistent volume with no decibel drop, offering a viable alternative to single coils.
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The Vela's neck pickup offers bass without muddiness, making it suitable for pop, country, and blues, while maintaining clarity.
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The bridge pickup is described as "hot vintage," providing a clear sound that can handle rock but remains versatile across genres.
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Some limited run Velas feature ebony fretboards and bird inlays, differing from standard models which typically use rosewood and dot inlays.
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Build quality
User experience
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One user found the Vela so compelling that it replaced the need for more expensive guitars like the core 594 and a Jimmy Page Telecaster.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings
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