PRS S2 Vela: A Unique PRS Guitar with Attitude

The PRS S2 Vela is definitely one of those guitars that makes you stop and pay attention. It’s a departure from the classic PRS double-cutaway look, and that’s exactly what makes it stand out. Instead of simply following tradition, the Vela carves out its own space in the PRS lineup with a voice and personality all its own. For players who want something distinctive that still delivers on quality and versatility, the Vela is a strong contender.

Comfort and Playability That Feels Instinctive

The first thing you notice when you pick up the Vela is how natural it feels in your hands. The asymmetric bevel on the S2 body makes the guitar sit comfortably against your arm, while the overall shape strikes the perfect balance between modern ergonomics and classic styling.

PRS fitted the Vela with their Pattern Regular neck profile, a trusted design that sits right in the sweet spot between chunky and slim. This makes it adaptable for players who move between rhythm and lead playing. You can bend, chord, or run scales with ease, and it all feels effortless. PRS clearly designed this guitar to be a workhorse—something that begs to be played, not just admired on a stand.

PRS S2 Vela Pickups: A Tonal Swiss Army Knife

The real magic of the S2 Vela is in its pickup configuration. In the bridge position, you’ll find the PRS DS-01 humbucker, a pickup also featured in the CE 24 Semi-Hollow. It’s articulate, punchy, and clear without ever becoming harsh—ideal for cutting through a band mix.

In the neck position, PRS went with the Narrowfield mini-humbucker. This pickup brings single-coil-like clarity and sparkle but keeps the noise-free performance of a humbucker. The combination of the two offers players an incredible tonal palette.

To make things even more versatile, the Vela includes a push/pull coil-split on the tone knob for the DS-01. This means you can switch from thick, modern humbucker tones to crisp, focused single-coil sounds in seconds. Whether you’re chasing clean indie chime, crunchy rock riffs, or warm bluesy leads, the Vela delivers.

Rock-Solid Hardware for Serious Players

PRS didn’t cut corners on the hardware, either. The PRS Plate-Style Bridge is a string-through-body design that maximizes sustain and tuning stability while keeping the overall look clean and functional. It’s a simple bridge that just works, making it perfect for players who value reliability.

Add to that the PRS S2 Locking Tuners, and you get a guitar that stays in tune no matter how aggressively you bend strings or dig into your playing. For gigging musicians, this means peace of mind—you won’t be fighting your guitar on stage.

Why the PRS S2 Vela Belongs in Your Collection

The PRS S2 Vela blends vintage-inspired vibe with modern performance. Its unique pickup combination, dependable hardware, and comfortable feel make it a perfect fit for players who want something that stands apart from the usual PRS models. It thrives in a wide variety of genres, from rock to indie to roots, while still giving you the premium feel PRS guitars are known for.

If you’re looking for a guitar that looks familiar but sounds refreshingly different, the Vela deserves your attention. Come into Tone Tailors and spend some time with one plugged in—you’ll quickly understand why so many players are adding the PRS S2 Vela to their arsenal.