Where Can I Read The Bruised Reed Online For Free?

Okay, let me nerd out for a bit here — the quick core fact is that S2 Mira guitars come with PRS-designed S2 pickups, which are PRS’s own humbucking designs made specifically for the S2 line. Those pickups have a balanced, slightly vintage-leaning voicing compared to some of the modern-hot PRS pickups; they aim to sit nicely between clarity and warmth, so the Mira retains that glassy PRS top-end but with enough midrange to cut through a mix. That said, there’s a catch I’ve learned from digging through forums and staring at guitar photos late into the night: PRS has tweaked the pickup spec across different runs and finishes. Some early S2 Mirаs shipped with covered S2 humbuckers, while other runs used the open-coil versions. There are also limited or special-run variations where PRS swapped in slightly different S2-voiced sets. So if you’re eyeballing a used Mira or trying to ID one, don’t be shocked if the pickup covers, pole-piece style, or even the winding labels look different from one example to another. If you want to be sure about the exact model in a particular Mira, the most reliable routes are: check the PRS product spec page or archived spec sheets for the model year, ask the seller/dealer for photos of the pickup underside or any factory paperwork, or contact PRS with the guitar’s serial number. Physically, you can also remove the pickup ring and look for maker stamps or stickers on the pickup baseplate — PRS usually marks their S2 pickups, but some covering styles hide those marks. For players who care about tone, the S2 set is a great starting point; if you want something brighter or beefier, swapping to an 85/15 or a 57/08-style set is a common, tone-first upgrade. Personally, I love the way the S2 humbuckers respond with light touch and dynamic playing — they’re not screamingly hot, but they polish chords beautifully and sing when you push them. If you’re buying, a quick photo of the pickups and the seller’s confirmation can save a lot of guesswork, and if you already own one, try out a few amp settings before reaching for the soldering iron — sometimes the stock S2s surprise you in the best way.

Honestly, when I eyeball used listings and lurk in guitar groups, the S2 Mira tends to sit in a slightly higher resale tier than most PRS SE models. The main reason is perception and provenance: S2s are marketed and built to bridge the gap between American-made Core instruments and the more affordable SE line, so people expect better hardware, different woods/finishes, and a quality-control story that justifies paying more secondhand. In practical terms that means an S2 Mira often commands noticeably more money than an SE Mira or comparable SE model, especially if it’s a desirable finish or a limited run. That said, resale isn’t just a sticker—condition, rarity, and timing matter way more than the model badge alone. A perfectly kept SE with original case, recent setup, and sought-after color can beat a beat-up S2 in final sale price. Conversely, a well-cared-for S2 with original case and low fret wear often holds its value better because buyers see it as closer to the Core lineage; I've seen folks pay a premium for a US-made serial and the 'feel' of higher-end fretwork. Mods are a big caveat: aftermarket pickups, non-original tuners, or routed cavities will usually tank resale for collectors, though players looking for tone might not care. If you’re buying to flip or wanting the best resale protection, my practical checklist is useful: keep the case and paperwork, take detailed photos, get a receipt for any recent setup, and be transparent about mods. List on multiple platforms (local marketplace, Reverb, eBay) and price it with a small room for negotiation. For buyers, remember that SEs are fantastic value for playing and modding — you can often get the same sonic goals for less money and still keep resale decent. Personally, I tend to favor S2 when I want resale security and a closer-to-Core feel, but for everyday playing and experimentation I’ll happily pick up an SE and make it my project guitar.

Okay, this one pops up a lot in forums and it’s a fun little detective hunt: the pickups in a Paul Reed Smith 408 aren’t a single immutable thing across every guitar — PRS tends to outfit different runs and models with different PRS-wound humbuckers. If you’ve got a Core or Private Stock 408, it will most likely have PRS’s proprietary humbuckers that lean toward the ‘58/15’ or ‘85/15’ family depending on the era and voicing requested. SE or more budget-oriented runs often get PRS-designed bridge and neck humbuckers that are made to be versatile, sometimes with coil-split capable wiring. If you want to be precise about a specific instrument, the easiest routes are to check the spec sheet for your model year on PRS’s site, look at the paperwork that came with the guitar, or pop the control cavity and note any stamped pickup markings or pot wiring colors. Oh, and measuring DC resistance with a multimeter helps too — it’ll tell you whether you’ve got a hotter modern humbucker or a lower-output vintage-style winding. Personally, I like digging through old PRS catalogs and serial-number posts to pin down exact pickup names when a spec list isn’t handy.

Watching 'Bruised' felt like slipping into a sweaty evening at my old gym—there's that immediate, visceral vibe that hits your nose before the dialogue does. The film nails the grind: early-morning conditioning, drilling the same combinations until your hands go numb, and the weird ballet of sparring where there’s both cooperation and honest danger. I loved how the movie showed the emotional toll of training as much as the physical; the scenes where she tapes her hands or sits in the corner after a bad sparring round ring true. That said, the timeline is compressed for drama—recoveries look quicker, and a lot of technical progression that would realistically take months is wrapped into a few montage minutes. Cinematically, fights are choreographed to read on camera, so some exchanges are cleaner than a real fight’s messy cadence. But the film’s depiction of weight cuts, the camaraderie and the bruises (literal and emotional) felt authentic to me, especially the nuanced portrayal of a female fighter balancing personal life and career. It’s not a documentary on training techniques, but it’s one of the more respectful and grounded takes on MMA I’ve seen, and it left me wanting to hit mitts the next morning.

As someone who has spent years playing and collecting guitars, the Paul Reed Smith Wood Library series stands out for its exceptional craftsmanship and tonal versatility. These guitars are not mass-produced; each one is handcrafted with carefully selected woods, often from private stashes or rare sources. The attention to detail is staggering—every piece of wood is chosen for its acoustic properties, ensuring a rich, resonant sound. The Wood Library models often feature unique combinations like mahogany with a maple top or rare tropical hardwoods, which give them a distinct voice compared to standard PRS models. The finishes are another highlight, with stunning natural grains that enhance the wood's beauty without sacrificing tone. What sets the Wood Library apart is the level of customization and exclusivity. These guitars are often limited runs or one-offs, making them highly sought after by collectors and serious players. The pickups are typically hand-wound to match the wood's characteristics, resulting in a balanced, articulate sound that adapts to various playing styles. The playability is also top-notch, with meticulously carved necks and fretwork that make them feel like an extension of the player. Whether you're into blues, rock, or jazz, a Wood Library PRS delivers a level of nuance and responsiveness that's hard to find in other guitars. It's not just an instrument; it's a piece of art that inspires creativity. Another aspect that makes these guitars unique is their connection to PRS's heritage. Paul Reed Smith himself is deeply involved in selecting the woods and overseeing the builds, ensuring each guitar meets his exacting standards. The Wood Library is a testament to his passion for pushing the boundaries of guitar design. Players often report that these guitars have a 'living' quality—their tone evolves as the wood ages, adding depth over time. For those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and sonic excellence, a Wood Library PRS is more than a guitar; it's a lifelong companion.

As a guitarist who’s spent years obsessing over tone and craftsmanship, I can confidently say that Paul Reed Smith Wood Library guitars are some of the most intriguing instruments out there. While not all Wood Library models are explicitly labeled as limited editions, many are produced in small batches with unique specifications, making them highly sought after. PRS’s Wood Library is essentially a curated selection of rare and exceptional tonewoods, paired with custom features like specific neck carves or finishes. These guitars often feel like one-of-a-kind pieces because of the attention to detail and the rarity of the materials used. For example, a Wood Library model might feature a stunning ziricote fretboard or a highly figured maple top that you won’t find on standard production guitars. The combination of these elements often results in instruments that are both visually and sonically exceptional. What makes Wood Library guitars stand out even more is their connection to PRS’s Private Stock line, which is their ultra-high-end, custom shop tier. While Wood Library models aren’t as exclusive as Private Stock, they share some of that ethos—limited availability, premium materials, and meticulous craftsmanship. Some Wood Library runs are explicitly limited, like certain artist signature models or collaborations, while others are simply rare due to the scarcity of the woods used. If you’re considering one, it’s worth noting that they don’t pop up on the used market as often as core PRS models, which speaks to their desirability. Whether you’re a collector or a player chasing a specific tone, a Wood Library guitar is a solid investment in both playability and uniqueness.

I remember being absolutely floored when I first heard about the Paul Reed Smith Wood Library series. As someone who’s been obsessed with guitar craftsmanship for years, the release of this line felt like a game-changer. The first Wood Library models were introduced in 2016, and they quickly became a talking point among musicians and collectors. PRS took their already stellar core models and elevated them with premium woods, stunning finishes, and meticulous attention to detail. The Wood Library wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about offering players a higher tier of tonal versatility and playability. The selection of woods like Brazilian rosewood, flamed maple, and rare mahogany made each instrument feel like a one-of-a-kind piece of art. What made the 2016 release so special was how it catered to players who wanted something beyond the standard production models. The Wood Library guitars often featured unique combinations of woods and finishes that weren’t available in the regular lineup. For example, some early models had beautifully figured ziricote fretboards or highly figured maple tops with deep, vibrant finishes. The attention to detail in the binding, inlays, and overall fit and finish was impeccable. It’s no surprise that these guitars quickly became sought after by both professional musicians and serious collectors. The Wood Library proved that PRS wasn’t just resting on their laurels—they were pushing the boundaries of what a production guitar could be.

As someone who’s been playing guitar for years and has a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, I’ve always admired Paul Reed Smith guitars for their precision and tone. The 'PRS Custom 24' is an absolute standout, known for its versatility and iconic bird inlays. It’s a favorite among professionals and hobbyists alike. The 'PRS Silver Sky', designed in collaboration with John Mayer, is another gem, offering a modern take on classic Strat tones. For those who love vintage vibes, the 'PRS McCarty 594' delivers that warm, rich sound reminiscent of the golden era of rock. The 'PRS SE series' is also worth mentioning, as it brings the PRS quality to a more affordable range, making it accessible to beginners and intermediate players. Each model has its unique charm, but they all share that unmistakable PRS quality. Another model I’d highlight is the 'PRS Hollowbody II', which is perfect for jazz and blues players seeking a warm, resonant tone. The 'PRS S2 series' is another great option, blending core PRS features with a more streamlined production process. Whether you’re into shredding solos or soulful melodies, there’s a PRS guitar that fits your style. The attention to detail in every model, from the wood selection to the finish, is what makes PRS guitars so special. If you’re looking to invest in a guitar that’s both beautiful and functional, you can’t go wrong with any of these models.