PRS (Paul Reed Smith) is an American guitar manufacturer known for producing high-quality electric and acoustic guitars, basses, and amplifiers. Their instruments are used by many professional musicians worldwide, and the company is respected for its unique designs, innovative technology, and attention to detail.
Founded in 1985 by Paul Reed Smith in Annapolis, Maryland
First guitar was sold in 1986
Received a patent for their tremolo system in 1988
Introduced their flagship model, the Custom 24, in 1989
Expanded their product line to include acoustic guitars in 1996
Opened a factory in Stevensville, Maryland in 1999
Became a major sponsor of the Experience Hendrix Tour in 2008
Celebrated their 30th anniversary in 2015
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The Custom 24 is PRS's flagship model, known for its versatile tone and beautiful finishes. It features a mahogany body with a carved maple top, a set-in mahogany neck, and two humbucking pickups with a 24-fret rosewood or ebony fingerboard.
PRS's Core Series includes a variety of electric guitar models, including the Custom 24, Custom 22, McCarty 594, and more. These guitars feature high-quality materials, innovative technology, and custom options to suit the needs of any player.
The SE Series is PRS's line of affordable electric guitars, produced overseas but designed to the same high standards as their American-made models. They offer a wide range of models, including the SE Custom 24, SE Custom 22, and SE Santana.
PRS's line of acoustic guitars includes the Angelus, Tonare, and SE models, all made with high-quality woods and craftsmanship. They are known for their warm, rich tone and beautiful aesthetics.
PRS produces a range of amplifiers to suit the needs of any guitarist, including the Archon, Sonzera, and MT15 models. These amps are known for their versatility, tone, and reliability.
Most PRS guitars are made in their factory in Stevensville, Maryland, but some of their more affordable models are produced in Asia.
PRS guitars are known for their attention to detail, innovative designs, and high-quality materials. They are designed to be versatile and playable for any style of music.
This is subjective, but many players believe that PRS guitars are worth the cost due to their high-quality craftsmanship, playability, and versatility. However, it ultimately depends on the individual's preferences and budget.
Many professional musicians play PRS guitars, including Carlos Santana, Mark Tremonti, John Mayer, and Alex Lifeson, among others.
The PRS tremolo system is a patented double-locking tremolo bridge that allows for smooth whammy bar effects while maintaining tuning stability. It is featured on many PRS electric guitars.