Used 1988 PRS Custom 24 – Red/Black Crackle Finish

Sonic Evaluation

A lot of rad guitars come through my desk at Wildwood, but this '88 Custom 24 in an exceedingly rare red/black crackle finish is another level of cool. Like, Al Green drinking a Slurpee in the ice fields of Antarctica levels of cool. Though the finish is eye-catching, it's actually the least exciting part of this guitar, because it is a world-destroyer of a tone machine. It's supremely resonant, with a spanky attack that gives way to lush blooming overtones that blend beautifully with the fundamental.

With the three pickups, you get the best of all worlds. The bridge pickup is punchy with tight bass response and highs that sound like a fanged church bell--a Tele-on-steroids Jimmy Page thing. By contrast, the middle single-coil is bright and sparkly with a bit of a scoop in the mids (think David Gilmour), while the neck pickup is warm and throaty (think SRV). The in between positions nail that classic cluck and quack that we love in S-style guitars, too. It's an iconic-looking guitar with five iconic sounds, so it's as versatile as it is inspiring.

Usually, I try to end these evaluations with a recommendation for play styles, but this guitar is for anyone that appreciates fantastic tone, versatility, and playability. I have no doubt you'll love it as much as I did if you take it for a spin!

Condition of Instrument

This 1988 PRS Custom 24 is in great shape with moderate play wear. There are some light scratches on the back and there's a single scratch on the back of the neck. It comes with a hardshell case, too!