Paul Reed Smith guitars, or PRS guitars, are known for being some of the best electric guitars on the market. They're highly sought after for their versatile sound, ranging from smooth and mellow to powerful and dynamic, depending on the model and your playing style. They're also known for their quality, with attention to detail in every aspect of the guitar, from the construction to the hardware.
In addition, we can’t forget about the aesthetics, as PRS guitars are known for their highly figured woods and unique finishes. Paul Reed Smith, the guitar king, is so obsessed with making sure his instruments are top-notch that he's even been known to chop up the ones that don't meet his standards.
In the following, we’ll take a look at how PRS SE guitars, although a little pricier than other beginner models, are a good option and value for the money.
Student Edition (SE) Guitar Line
During the early days of PRS, in the mid-80s, the company saw an opportunity to grow as major players in the industry, like Gibson and Fender, struggled to compete with import brands like Jackson and Kramer. PRS, which began as a guitar brand, diversified its product range to include electric and acoustic guitars, bass guitars, amplifiers, and effects pedals. In 2000, they introduced a more affordable line of guitars for beginners, called the “SE” or student edition collection.
The PRS SE guitar line includes a variety of models, each with its own unique features and specifications. Some common features across the line include PRS-designed pickups, hardware, and features, such as the company's patented tremolo system. The SE line also features a variety of tonewoods, including mahogany and maple, as well as different types of fingerboards, such as rosewood and maple.
Why Beginners Should Opt for a PRS SE Guitar?
Although these guitars are designed to be more affordable versions of the company's high-end, American-made models, they still maintain the quality and craftsmanship PRS is known for. PRS SE models are great for beginners because they are comfortable to play, have a great sound, and are easy to maintain. They're also easy to upgrade as you progress in your playing and overall skills.
Here are a few reasons why these guitars are the perfect choice for those just starting their musical journey:
Easy to Play
The neck and fingerboard are designed for comfort and ease of play, making it easier for you to focus on honing your skills instead of fighting with a stiff or uncomfortable instrument.
Sound quality
PRS SE guitars have a sound quality that both beginners and pros enjoy. These guitars have a rich, warm tone that will make your music sound professional.
Affordable
PRS SE models are a great value for the money. They're affordable, so you won't have to break the bank to get a high quality guitar from a reputable manufacturer.
Made to Last
PRS is a reputable brand with a long history of crafting fantastic guitars. Made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, the PRS SE guitars are built to withstand the test of time.
Joining the Ranks of Legends
Many guitar legends have played PRS guitars, and with a PRS SE model, you'll join their ranks. From Carlos Santana to Mark Tremonti, these guitarists trust and believe in PRS as a brand, and you can too.
Versatility
PRS SE guitars are versatile guitars that can handle almost any genre of music you throw at them, from rock to blues to jazz and beyond.
Numerous Models For Every Beginner Musician
Here is a list of some of the most notable guitars from the PRS SE line that you may want to consider.
PRS SE Custom 24
Among the SE models, the Custom 24 is arguably the most popular, mirroring the success of its USA-made counterpart. It's a great choice for players who want a high-quality instrument that combines classic PRS design with modern performance at a great price.
The SE Custom 24 features a double-cutaway mahogany body with a maple top and a 24-fret mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard. It also has PRS-designed 85/15 “S” pickups paired with volume control, push/pull tone control, and a 3-way toggle pickup switch, which makes it a versatile guitar that can handle a wide range of playing styles.
PRS SE Starla
The PRS Starla is a guitar that stands out in the PRS lineup thanks to its unique design and vintage aesthetic. Unlike many PRS models, which have a sleek, modern look, the Starla has a more vintage vibe reminiscent of the guitars played by guitar heroes of the 60s.
The Starla Stoptail model features a single-cutaway mahogany body with a maple top, a mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard, and a 25’’ scale.
PRS SE Mark Holcomb
The PRS SE Mark Holcomb signature guitar is a top choice for metal players, offering a combination of high-end features and great value. The Mark Holcomb model was designed in collaboration with Mark Holcomb, the lead guitarist of the band Periphery. The guitar is modeled after the PRS SE Custom 24. Still, it has several upgrades, including Mark Holcomb's signature Seymour Duncan Alpha and Omega pickups that have massive output and clarity, making it a great choice for high-gain music.
Additionally, the guitar boasts an ebony fretboard with white binding, a unique Holcomb Burst finish, a flatter fretboard radius for low-action soloing, and a longer scale length for drop tunings without floppy strings. Lastly, there is a 7-string version model called the Mark Holcomb SE SVN.
Final Thoughts
The PRS SE line of guitars is a great choice for beginner players who want an instrument that is both high in quality yet affordable. They offer a wide range of options to suit different playing styles and preferences and provide remarkable value over their counterparts. If you're in the market for a beginner guitar and want something that is also versatile and stylish, you will want to check out PRS SE guitars. Shop our PRS SE line to view the models we carry.
Not sure which is right for you? Our team can help you narrow down your selection, give us a call today at (888) 794-8482.