So, you’re after a PRS guitar. Nice move! Whether you’re a beginner with big dreams or a total shredder, PRS has a guitar for you. But… there are a ton of options.
How are you supposed to pick “the one”? Trust me, I get it—it’s like picking the perfect slice of pizza: pretty much all good, but you’re looking for the one that really hits home.
To make things easy, I broke down the best PRS guitars out right now. 100% subjective list, but it’s accurate 😉
Best PRS Guitars – Quick Overview
Too busy to scroll? Here’s the rundown:
- Best for Pros: PRS Mark Tremonti CH 10 Top
- Best for Blues Fans: PRS John Mayer Silver Sky Tungsten
- Best Value for Money: PRS SE Custom 24 CH
- Best for Versatility: PRS SE DGT Gold Top
- Best Hollow Body: PRS SE Hollowbody II Piezo PB
- Best for Semi-Hollow Tone: PRS SE Zach Myers MB
- Best Acoustic: PRS SE A60E Natural
Sound good? Scroll down to hear all of the sound demos!
1. PRS Mark Tremonti CH 10 Top
Alright, so if you’re after something that could double as a sonic weapon, the Mark Tremonti CH 10 Top is it. Designed by Tremonti himself (you know, the guy from Alter Bridge), this guitar doesn’t mess around. It’s built for power, aggression, and all-out rock. Think of it as the muscle car of guitars.
Key Features
- Body: Mahogany with a crazy 10-top flamed maple (yeah, it looks cool)
- Neck: Mahogany, glued-in (so it’s stable), Pattern Thin profile
- Pickups: Dual Tremonti humbuckers (powerful enough to shake walls)
- Hardware: PRS Up Route tremolo, Phase III locking tuners
Why I Think It’s Good
If you’re into hard rock or metal, this is the beast you need. The pickups are intense—perfect for all the high-gain tones you want. Plus, it’s made to be super stable, so go ahead, shred away. It’s aggressive but not just loud; it’s got tone for days. Warning: might make you feel unstoppable.
Looking for more extremely versatile guitars? Have a look on this list of best guitars for neo-soul – these are awesome!
2. PRS John Mayer Silver Sky Tungsten
Now, let’s talk about the PRS John Mayer Silver Sky. This one’s for all you blues fans who want a clean, crisp sound. Yes, it’s Mayer’s signature model, but you don’t have to play “Gravity” on it (although, admit it, you probably will). It’s got that vintage tone we love but with all the fancy PRS engineering.
Key Features
- Body: Alder (lightweight and resonant)
- Neck: Maple with the “635JM” profile—translation: comfy as heck
- Pickups: Three 635JM single coils for that classic, sparkly sound
- Radius: 7.25” (which just feels, like, right)
Why I Think It’s Good
The Silver Sky has that tone. You know, the kind that’s both clean and rich, with no hum to mess with it. It’s practically made for those smooth blues licks and chimey clean chords. If you’re into Mayer or just love classic single-coil sounds, this guitar’s got you covered. Plus, it’s lighter than most PRS models, so your shoulder won’t hate you.
The Silver Sky has fantastic cleans. If that’s your kind of vibe, this guide on best guitars for clean tones may be worth reading!
3. PRS SE Custom 24 CH
Ah, the PRS SE Custom 24 CH. This one is for those of us who don’t have an endless guitar budget but still want something quality. It’s like the “everyman’s PRS,” but don’t let that fool you—it’s seriously well-made and has the PRS vibe all the way.
Key Features
- Body: Mahogany with an arched maple top (with flamed maple veneer, fancy!)
- Neck: Maple, Wide Thin profile (perfect for fast playin’)
- Pickups: 85/15 S humbuckers (clear, balanced sound)
- Tremolo: PRS-designed, because, of course
Why I Think It’s Good
This one gives you a ton of versatility for the price. Rock, blues, even jazz—this guitar handles it all. Plus, it’s got PRS’s signature look without breaking the bank. It plays like a dream and sounds fantastic, especially for an “affordable” PRS. You’re definitely getting your money’s worth here.
You may also like: 7 Great Guitars By Jackson
4. PRS SE DGT Gold Top
Next up is the PRS SE DGT Gold Top. This one’s a workhorse, seriously. Built with guitarist David Grissom in mind, it covers a ton of ground—like a “do-it-all” guitar. It’s got solid pickups, great playability, and just enough options to dial in whatever tone you’re craving.
Key Features
- Body: Mahogany with a maple top for warmth and sustain
- Pickups: DGT “S” humbuckers—versatile and punchy
- Controls: Two volume knobs, one tone (push/pull for coil-splitting)
- Hardware: Nickel with PRS tremolo
Why I Think It’s Good
This guitar just works. You can go from full humbucker power to single-coil bite with the coil-split, so it’s like two guitars in one. It’s great for all genres, so if you’re someone who doesn’t want to be tied down to one sound, this one’s for you. Bonus: It’s a Gold Top, so it looks kinda cool too.
This is a very powerful guitar, so you can easily use it for more heavier genres. We actually have an article for those who love grunge and nu metal 😉
5. PRS SE Hollowbody II Piezo PB
Alright, let’s talk about something a little different: the SE Hollowbody II Piezo. This one’s part electric, part acoustic, and all PRS. If you’re the type who likes to experiment with tones, this guitar is going to keep you busy.
Key Features
- Body: Laminated flamed maple with mahogany sides (pretty and practical)
- Pickups: 58/15 LT “S” humbuckers + piezo system
- Inputs: Dual—one for humbuckers, one for piezo (or both together)
- Bridge: Adjustable piezo stoptail
Why I Think It’s Good
This is a guitarist’s playground. You can get a clean, acoustic-like tone one second and then go full electric rock the next. Perfect for live gigs, especially if you hate switching guitars mid-set. It’s versatile, unique, and seriously fun.
6. PRS SE Zach Myers MB
Now for something a bit moody—the SE Zach Myers MB. This is a semi-hollow guitar with a thick, rich tone. Zach Myers of Shinedown helped design it, so you know it’s built to handle rock but still has that mellow, bluesy vibe.
Key Features
- Body: Mahogany with maple top, semi-hollow
- Pickups: PRS 245 “S” humbuckers (warm, vintage tone)
- Controls: Two volume, two tone, and a 3-way switch
- Bridge: PRS adjustable stoptail for steady tuning
Why I Think It’s Good
This is for the player who loves resonance and depth. The semi-hollow body gives you a nice, full sound that’s perfect for jazz, blues, or rock. Plus, it looks amazing. If you like your tone thick and warm, the Zach Myers model won’t let you down.
7. PRS SE A60E Natural
Finally, the PRS SE A60E—an acoustic for those who want a bit of PRS quality in their unplugged sound. With a Fishman pickup, it sounds amazing on stage and just as great off stage. Perfect for anyone looking to mix up their playing with some acoustic tones.
Key Features
- Top: Solid Sitka spruce, nice and resonant
- Body: Zircote (it looks as good as it sounds)
- Electronics: PRS Voiced Fishman Sonitone pickup
- Hardware: Ebony bridge and bone nut
Why I Think It’s Good
This one’s got that natural, warm acoustic sound. It’s great for gigs since the pickup system keeps your sound true. And it’s a PRS acoustic, so, yeah, it’s not going to let you down. It looks beautiful, plays well, and can easily handle the spotlight.
Reading from Poland? Read this piece about PRS brand (Polish Article)
My Experience with PRS Guitars
So, here’s the deal with PRS guitars: they’re amazing. Every single one feels like it’s been crafted by wizards. They’re that good. Here’s why I love ‘em:
- Quality: Each PRS feels like a top-shelf instrument, even the “budget” models.
- Tone: You get whatever tone you’re after—no limitations here.
- Durability: Built like tanks. You won’t break these things easily.
- Playability: Smooth, comfortable, just makes you want to play all day.
I’ll admit it: PRS guitars are a bit of an addiction. But once you try one, you’ll see why.
My Rating
Now, here’s how I’d personally rank each of these models (because who doesn’t love a good rating?):
- PRS Mark Tremonti CH 10 Top: 9/10 (For rock and metal players, this is a beast. Just wish it wasn’t so heavy!)
- PRS John Mayer Silver Sky Tungsten: 8.5/10 (A blues machine, but not everyone’s cup of tea. Great for clean, vintage tones.)
- PRS SE Custom 24 CH: 8.5/10 (Best bang for your buck—sounds and plays like a high-end guitar without the price.)
- PRS SE DGT Gold Top: 9.5/10 (This one’s a Swiss Army knife—super versatile. You can play almost anything on it.)
- PRS SE Hollowbody II Piezo PB: 9/10 (For the experimenters and multi-genre players. Acoustic and electric tones in one guitar? Yes, please.)
- PRS SE Zach Myers MB: 8/10 (Love that semi-hollow resonance. Great for blues and mellow rock.)
- PRS SE A60E Natural: 8/10 (A solid acoustic for PRS fans, with quality that stands out.)
In my opinion, PRS guitars are as close as it gets to a “no-brainer” buy. Sure, they aren’t cheap, but if you’re serious about guitar, you’re investing in something that will last you years. They’re tough, they’re beautiful, and they deliver amazing tone. Just know that once you start down the PRS path, it’s hard to stop at just one. (Trust me, I’m living proof.)
Pros & Cons of PRS Guitars
Alright, let’s break it down with the good and the bad:
Pros
- Top-notch quality: Each guitar feels super premium.
- Versatility: There’s a PRS for every genre and style.
- Comfortable: The necks are smooth and easy on the hands.
- Reliability: These guitars are tanks; they don’t let you down.
Cons
- Pricey: Even the affordable ones are a bit steep.
- Weight: Some models are on the heavier side.
- Hard to find: Some models aren’t super available everywhere.
FAQ
Q: Are these guitars worth the money?
A: Honestly, yes. These guitars aren’t cheap, but they’re made to last. You’re paying for quality materials, incredible craftsmanship, and versatility in sound. If you’re serious about playing or want a guitar that can grow with you, the price is justified. For the more affordable models like the SE line, you’re still getting top-notch build quality and tone without the higher-end price tag. Think of it as an investment—one you’re unlikely to regret.
Q: Which one should a beginner go for?
A: If you’re just starting, the SE models are a fantastic choice. They’re user-friendly, versatile, and they look pretty cool, too. I’d say the SE Custom 24 is an ideal entry point. It covers a lot of ground tonally, from clean to crunchy, and isn’t overly complicated. Plus, you’ll get the classic look and feel without feeling like you’re in way over your head.
Q: What’s with all the neck profiles?
A: Good question! This brand uses different neck profiles to give players a custom feel based on their playing style. “Wide Thin” is great for shredders who like speed and less bulk. “Pattern Thin” is also quite comfortable, giving you something in between. If you’re into more rhythm playing or blues, a rounder profile like “Pattern Regular” feels super natural. Basically, each profile caters to a different feel, so it’s worth checking them out in person if you can.
Q: How do these compare to Gibson or Fender?
A: It’s kind of like getting the best of both worlds. If Gibson gives you that heavy, warm humbucker sound and Fender delivers bright, single-coil clarity, these guitars find a sweet middle ground. You can get warm, crunchy tones as well as clear, articulate sounds without feeling like you have to choose between the two. It’s a hybrid vibe, and for many players, it’s exactly what they’re looking for.
Q: Are they heavy? Will my shoulder survive?
A: Some models, like the Mark Tremonti CH 10 Top, have a bit of heft due to their solid bodies. But if weight is a concern, you’ve got options. Models like the SE Hollowbody II are lighter, thanks to the semi-hollow design. So, yes, there’s a bit of variety here. If you play long gigs, the Hollowbody II or SE Custom 24 are more manageable weight-wise.
Q: What’s up with the bird inlays?
A: Oh, the bird inlays are iconic. It’s one of the brand’s trademark features, and it gives these guitars a classy, unique look. Some people love them, and they’ve kind of become a status symbol in the guitar world. They don’t affect sound or playability—just add that extra “wow” factor.
Q: How’s the tuning stability?
A: Really good, especially on models with the locking tuners. These guitars tend to hold their tuning better than most, even with heavy use. Models with tremolos also handle tuning stability surprisingly well. For players who need that stability for bends and tremolo work, it’s a reliable choice that won’t leave you constantly re-tuning mid-song.
Q: Can you get a custom model?
A: Absolutely, but custom builds are pricey. This brand is known for its high-end, personalized models, where you can specify every detail to make it truly yours. If budget isn’t a big concern and you want something no one else has, it’s a route worth considering.
Final Thoughts
So, where does this leave us? If you’ve read this far, you’re serious about finding a guitar that’s more than just a piece of wood with strings.
If I had to pick an overall “winner,” I’d go with the SE DGT Gold Top. This one’s insanely versatile and covers a lot of styles, so you won’t feel boxed in. It’s perfect if you play across genres or want a single guitar that can do a bit of everything.
But at the end of the day, each model has been designed with care and attention, making any one of these a solid investment.
Just remember, once you go down this path, it’s hard to stop at one—there’s something about the tone, the feel, the look, that keeps you wanting more. So pick the one that fits your style and goals, and enjoy every minute with it 😉
