A Work of Art in Every PRS Guitar & Amp
It would be impossible to describe the energy and excitement in the room the first time Paul Reed Smith came to Sweetwater to show off his beautiful PRS guitars. Even those among us who don't play could instantly recognize the quality craftsmanship and astonishing beauty of these instruments. What's more, unlike many companies that start off as boutique manufacturers and lose their luster when they expand their production, PRS has only gotten better as they've expanded. Today, whether you pick up an affordable SE electric, a Core series bass, a top-of-the-line Private Stock PRS acoustic, or any one of their boutique-grade amps, you'll get a whole lot more than premium performance — you'll get a true work of art.
PRS: Enduring Beauty Since Day One
Paul Reed Smith was born to build beautiful instruments, spending countless hours developing his skills in childhood and building his first electric guitar (infamously carved from a solid-core door) in college. His first break came when he sold guitars backstage at rock shows, and among his earliest adopters was Carlos Santana. By 1985, Paul had gone into business, and PRS was born. These days, PRS brings Paul's original vision of guitar building to every aspect of production, starting with precision CNC-cut fine tonewoods and ending with hand carving and assembly. This company takes particular pride in the finishes, which complement the sound and feel of their guitars.
PRS Core Guitars
The vanguard of PRS guitars is their Core series, a continuation of the first guitars Paul Reed Smith made in the mid '80s. He started with a philosophy of uncompromising craftsmanship, and if you take a look in Sweetwater's Guitar Gallery, you'll see that the company hasn't changed that one bit. Everything from the comfortable contours and popular neck carves to the custom electronics and hardware deliver top-notch performance. What's more, PRS is notorious for their breathtaking figured maple tops — including high-grade 10-Tops — and detailed inlays that, with various other top-end appointments, set the standard in premium guitars and basses.
PRS SE Guitars
To meet the increased demands of players of all calibers, PRS has gradually expanded their line with their affordable SE series. To call SE models "budget" guitars would paint an entirely inaccurate picture. While these instruments are extraordinarily affordable, their construction, aesthetics, and performance far exceed what one might expect from a standard guitar from another maker. SE models are available for many PRS Core series guitars, basses, and acoustic guitars.
PRS S2 Guitars
Similar to the SE series, the PRS S2 line fulfills Paul's desire to accommodate another level of guitarist. In this case, the made-in-Maryland S2 line balances the cost of economy designs with the stock benefits of the Core series. Specifically, S2 models, which include the unique designs and versions of the most popular PRS Core models, offer sleek contours and upgraded hardware, with select high-performance electronics and traditional PRS appointments.
PRS Private Stock Guitars
On the other end of the spectrum, PRS offers exquisite Private Stock creations for guitarists who want the very best instruments money can buy. These instruments begin in the PRS Custom Shop, where the company's top luthiers handbuild unique made-to-order and limited-edition instruments like no others on the market. Each instrument is based on a Core model and customized with select details, such as Artist tops (a step above even PRS's 10-Tops), nonstandard finishes, upgraded hardware and electronics, and more. They're so unique that PRS even numbers each Private Stock guitar to distinguish it from all others. Want a semi-hollowbody, hybrid Double Cut model with a Wood Library-grade quilted maple top in a Northern Lights finish, or a Singlecut solidbody with a Honduran rosewood neck and an inlay of an eagle in flight across the top? PRS Private Stock is the way to go.
PRS Basses and Acoustic Guitars
While PRS is best known for their electric guitars, over the past decade they've branched out in exciting new directions, such as basses and acoustics. Their acoustic guitars generally divide into the single-cut Angelus line and the no-cut Tonare. SE acoustic models feature Sitka spruce tops on ovangkol or maple bodies, plus Fishman F1 electronics, but when you go into the Private Stock collection, these instruments include jaw-dropping creations featuring figured koa, Brazilian rosewood, and inlays that rival the finest acoustics ever made. Combined with special bracing and construction methods, these acoustic-electric models offer the same performance Sweetwater guitarists expect from PRS's electric guitars.
PRS Amplifiers
Finally, PRS offers a full line of boutique guitar amplifiers. These amplifiers range from vintage designs from the golden era of classic rock to high-gain amps ideal for modern rock. They are highly versatile, and custom models are available with beautiful wood finishes. If you love unadulterated tube tone, then ask your Sales Engineer about PRS amps, or take a look at the extensive collection here on Sweetwater.com. We're always happy to recommend PRS.