10 Quick Facts About PRS Guitars

Paul Reed Smith (PRS) guitars are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and innovative designs. Here are 10 fun facts about PRS guitars:

1. Founder and Passion

   PRS Guitars was founded by luthier Paul Reed Smith in 1985. Paul started building guitars as a hobby while attending college, and his passion for crafting high-quality instruments led to the establishment of the company.

2. Private Stock

   PRS offers a unique and exclusive line of guitars known as "Private Stock." These instruments are handcrafted with the finest materials and feature custom designs, making them highly sought after by collectors and players alike.

3. Maple Tops

   PRS is renowned for its use of highly figured maple tops on many of its guitars. The "10-Top" designation indicates a particularly stunning maple top, and these tops are carefully selected for their aesthetic appeal.

4. Bird Inlays

   One of the most distinctive features of PRS guitars is their bird inlays. These are intricate, customizable bird-shaped fretboard inlays made from materials such as mother-of-pearl or abalone. The design has become a signature element of PRS guitars.

5. Handmade Craftsmanship

   PRS guitars are known for their meticulous craftsmanship. Each guitar is handmade by skilled artisans, and the attention to detail is evident in the quality of the instruments.

6. Custom 24 Debut

   The PRS Custom 24 was the first model introduced by the company in 1985. This guitar quickly gained popularity for its combination of a double-cutaway body, maple top, and 24 frets.

7. Patented Tremolo System

   PRS designed its own patented tremolo system known as the PRS Tremolo or Double-Locking Tremolo. It's a floating bridge design that allows players to use the tremolo arm while maintaining tuning stability.

8. Santana's Influence

   PRS gained early recognition when Carlos Santana began using their guitars in the late 1980s. Santana's collaboration with PRS resulted in the development of the Santana model, which has become iconic in its own right.

9. Wood Selection

   PRS is particular about the wood used in their guitars. The company sources top-quality tonewoods, and the combination of mahogany bodies and maple tops is a common feature in many PRS models.

10. Global Recognition

    PRS guitars have gained global recognition and are played by numerous artists across different genres. The brand's reputation for quality and innovation has contributed to its success in the music industry.