The Paul Reed Smith SE McCarty 594 Double Cut is a guitar that masterfully blends vintage aesthetics with modern playability and tone. This model is part of PRS’s SE series, which is celebrated for delivering high-quality instruments at more accessible price points.

Design and Build Quality

The SE McCarty 594 Double Cut features a double-cutaway body shape that is both ergonomic and visually striking. The body is crafted from mahogany, a tonewood known for its warm and resonant sound, and is topped with a stunning flame-maple veneer. The gloss polyurethane finish enhances the natural beauty of the wood and provides a durable, long-lasting sheen. The 22-fret set neck is also made from mahogany, and the 10" radius rosewood fretboard is adorned with PRS’s iconic bird inlays, adding a touch of elegance to the instrument.

Pickups and Electronics

This guitar is equipped with a pair of PRS 58/15 LT “S” humbuckers, which are designed to deliver a vintage-inspired tone with modern clarity. These low-output pickups provide a rich, warm sound that is reminiscent of the classic PAF humbuckers. The guitar also features a push/pull tone control for coil-splitting, allowing you to access single-coil tones for added versatility. This makes the SE McCarty 594 Double Cut suitable for a wide range of musical genres, from blues and jazz to rock and metal.

Sound and Tone

The SE McCarty 594 Double Cut is known for its dynamic and expressive tone. The mahogany body and 58/15 LT pickups work together to produce a sound that is both rich and articulate. The guitar excels in both clean and overdriven settings, providing a clear and balanced tone that is perfect for both rhythm and lead playing. The slightly shorter 24.594" scale length makes string bending easier and adds to the guitar’s overall playability.

Playability

PRS guitars are renowned for their playability, and the SE McCarty 594 Double Cut is no exception. The Pattern Vintage neck profile is comfortable and natural in hand, making it easy to play for extended periods. The guitar’s setup is impeccable right out of the box, with low action and excellent intonation. The two-piece bridge is both stable and adjustable, ensuring that the guitar stays in tune and performs flawlessly.

Aesthetics

Visually, the SE McCarty 594 Double Cut is both elegant and sophisticated. The flame-maple veneer top and gloss finish give the guitar a luxurious appearance, while the bird inlays and vintage-style tuners add a touch of classic PRS charm. The hardware is robust and reliable, ensuring that the guitar not only looks great but also performs at the highest level.

Conclusion

In summary, the Paul Reed Smith SE McCarty 594 Double Cut is a versatile and high-quality guitar that offers exceptional sound, playability, and aesthetics. Its combination of premium materials, innovative electronics, and meticulous craftsmanship makes it a fantastic choice for musicians of all levels. Whether you’re performing on stage, recording in the studio, or practicing at home, the SE McCarty 594 Double Cut is sure to inspire and elevate your playing experience.