PRS
ActiveOverview
PRS Guitars is an American manufacturer of electric guitars, acoustic guitars, basses, and amplifiers, founded in 1985. It produces high-end custom models alongside more affordable lines like the SE series, occupying a position between premium brands like Gibson and mass-market options. By 2024, it ranked as the third best-selling guitar brand behind Fender and Gibson.1
History
PRS Guitars was founded by Paul Reed Smith in 1985 in Annapolis, Maryland. The company gained recognition with its first production model, the Custom, and the ornate Dragon series. It expanded its lineup to include the vintage-inspired McCarty model, the affordable SE range, and signature models for artists such as Santana, Mark Tremonti, and John Mayer. The headquarters moved to Stevensville, Maryland, where it continues operations.12
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Core Series (flagship electrics) | high-end professional instruments | $3,000 - $10,000 |
| SE Series (bolt-on electrics) | affordable imported line | $500 - $1,200 |
| S2 Series (USA-made electrics) | mid-tier American craftsmanship | $1,800 - $3,000 |
| Private Stock (custom shop) | bespoke luxury guitars | $10,000+ |
| Acoustic Guitars | tonal wood-focused acoustics | $2,000 - $6,000 |
Manufacturing
PRS manufactures its Core, S2, and Private Stock guitars at its facility in Stevensville, Maryland, USA. The more affordable SE series is produced overseas, primarily in Indonesia, with USA specs. Acoustic guitars and amplifiers are also made in the US facility.124
Notable Products
- PRS Custom 24 - Iconic first production model with versatile HFS pickups and compound radius fretboard.
- PRS McCarty - Vintage-inspired singlecut with 25-inch scale for warmer tone.
- PRS Dragon - Ornate early series known for figured maple tops and artistic inlays.
- PRS SE Custom 24 - Popular affordable version of the flagship with USA-voiced pickups.
- PRS Santana - Signature model for Carlos Santana with rosewood neck and warm low-end.
Reputation
PRS is praised by professionals and enthusiasts for exceptional build quality, innovative designs like the compound radius fretboard, and versatile tone suitable for rock, jazz, and metal. It holds strong appeal among modern players for playability and aesthetics. Some critics note higher prices compared to imports and a less 'vintage' vibe than Gibson or Fender, though its market growth to third in sales reflects broad acceptance.1
Sources (7)
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PRS_Guitars
- https://www.zoominfo.com/c/prs-guitars/78709223
- https://prospeo.io/c/prs-guitars
- https://prsguitars.com/about
- https://prsguitars.com/about/story
- https://www.dnb.com/business-directory/company-profiles.paul_reed_smith_guitars_limited_partnership.31a29d835430ccd0fd0d6f26f41026d7.html
- https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/08123415