NAMM 2010: PRS SE sigs: Opeth, Orianthi, Cradle of Filth, Shinedown, Black Label Society

Here’s a run-down of the new Paul Reed Smith SE models released at NAMM this year. I got to see these axes close-up and I really dig the Opeth model and the Zach Myers one. But perhaps the coolest news of the show for me was that Orianthi told me her SE model will also be released with a Floyd Rose not too far down the track.

PRS Announces Signature Artist SE Models at Winter NAMM 2010
January 14, 2010

PRS Guitars is proud to announce that Orianthi, Zach Myers of Shinedown , Paul Allender of Cradle of Filth, Mike Akerfeldt of Opeth and Nick Catanese of Black Label Society will have their signature SE models unveiled at the 2010 Anaheim NAMM show. Built in Korea to signature artist and PRS's specifications by skilled craftsmen, the SE series offers an unmatched combination of incredible quality, sound and price.

PRS has worked closely with each artist to present a guitar that identifies with their style, both musically and visually. Although they have worked with PRS for years, these are debut signature models for Orianthi, Myers, Akerfeldt and Catanese. EMG pick ups as well as old school birds, an appointment that up until this year has been reserved for Maryland made PRS guitars, come standard on several of these new artist models.

SE Orianthi

A classic PRS sound with white pearloid birds and red sparkle finish, the Orianthi SE model is the very first signature model instrument bearing the guitar goddess' name. It comes standard with a Korina back and maple top, 24 fret wide-thin maple neck with 25" scale length and an ebony fretboard featuring white pearloid birds and an "O" at the 12th fret. The model also features PRS designed Tremolo and PRS designed tuners with nickel hardware and two humbucking pickups to give new and seasoned players alike a shiny new ax to grind.

"This PRS is perfect for anyone who wants an awesome quality, versatile rockin' lookin' guitar – at an affordable price – I love it. Try it out." Orianthi

SE Zach Myers of Shinedown

As the lead guitarist of a band with more than six million albums sold worldwide, Zach Myers is certainly no stranger to hard rock licks. In support of his blazing guitar skills, PRS and Zach designed his very first signature model. Silver Sparkleburst and white binding on top edge of body, fretboard and headstock, the SE Zach Myers also features a Singlecut mahogany body, flamed maple veneer, wide-fat mahogany 25" scale length neck and an ebony fretboard with a Fleur-de-lis inlay at 12th fret. Additional features include an adjustable bridge (with large caps on the height adjustment screws), three humbucking pickups with two volume and two tone controls, 3-way toggle.

"When I was approached about doing a signature model with PRS, I knew that in my career I had reached every goal I had wanted to reach. This model is based off of my two favorite PRS guitars, one being the first PRS I ever owned. This SE model holds up to both of those guitars as a players guitar that can take a beating....I have put everything I am into this guitar and can't wait for you to hear it." Zach Myers

Mikael Akerfeldt of Opeth

As the lead vocalist and guitarist for the acclaimed death metal band Opeth, Mikael traverses the musical terrain with sounds that are "subject to savage punctuations of death metal fury at any given moment." Akerfeldt once commented on the diversity of Opeth's music. His new model follows suit with a singlecut mahogany body, maple top and flame maple veneer, maple neck with ebony fretboard, 24 jumbo frets, original PRS bird inlays, PRS designed tremolo bridge, gold hardware, HFS and Vintage Bass pickups, volume, tone, 3-way toggle. A Tortoise Shell finish with a Opeth "O" logo on body give this guitar a unique look to compliment a unique voice.

"I'm a writer, a rhythm, lead and acoustic player. I try to be as versatile as possible, that's why I needed a guitar that can match those ambitions both live and in the studio. On top of things, it is proper eye candy too." Mike Akerfeldt

SE Nick Catanese of Black Label Society

Nick Catanese and PRS have created a signature model SE worthy of Nick's "Evil Twin" moniker. Starting with an extra-thick Singlecut mahogany body, the guitar tops off with a Gloss Black finish with red binding on body, neck and headstock, and and "Evil Twin" logo on body. The model also features a mahogany neck, ebony fretboard, 22 jumbo frets, no inlays, TonePros adjustable stoptail bridge, and EMG 81 and 85 pickups with red pickup rings. Other appointments include volume, tone and 3-way toggle on upper bout.

"I have a home that knows how to make an elegant weapon. PRS is a guitar players home." Nick Catanese

Paul Allender of Cradle of Filth

Cradle of Filth guitarist's ever popular model is updated with new pickups and new colors for a filthy new take on Paul Allender's namesake ax. Now available in available in Emerald Green Burst or Scarlet Red Burst, the double-cutaway mahogany body still has a flame maple veneer and a special arm carve. Additional features include rounded edges on the body, maple neck with ebony fretboard, 24 jumbo frets and the bats in flight inlay. New EMG 89 and 81-TW pickups with coil tapping give the guitar an updated sound, and a tremolo bridge, nickel hardware, push-pull volume, push-pull tone and 3-way toggle switch are also featured.

"More metal than your gran's left hip." Paul Allender

LINK: http://www.prsguitars.com/.

NEWS: Dave Weiner sells his Ibanezes, joins PRS

Now this is interesting. Finding his guitar needs shifting in new directions and no longer feeling that Ibanez reflected his personality, Dave Weiner is selling off a bunch of his Ibanezes and is hooking up with PRS under a non-exlusive agreement which will allow him to play other brands when he feels like it, while also developing 6 and 7 string models. Cool!

Dave talks about his sweet new PRS 513 in this video here:

You can read more, including comments from Dave, on this thread on Jemsite.

As for Dave's garage sale, check out the guitars he's saying goodbye to here. Currently he's selling an Ibanez LACS (LA Custom Shop) 7 string, an Ibanez AF207 7-string jazz guitar with one-of-a-kind 5-way high frequency filter, an Ibanez AJ30ECE acoustic guitar used on Steve Vai's recent 'Where The Wild Things Are' live CD and DVD, and an Ibanez SR485 5-string bass.

LINK: Daveweiner.com

NEWS: NIN auctions Gibson, ESP, PRS, Jackson guitars & more

Did you manage to see Nine Inch Nails on their final victory lap before they were retired as a live band (at least in the current form – I’m pretty sure we’ll see them again some day, eventually, and when that day comes everyone will be all like, ‘pfft, what a rip. I paid to see their last tour because it was their last tour, and now they’re touring again? WTF, NIN, WTF? But I digress). Well NIN may be no more but thanks to Trent Reznor’s decision to bail out of the touring game for the time being, there are a hell of a lot of cool NIN-owned/used guitars being sold on eBay at the moment by the band. Check out this ESP Eclipse with artwork from The Fragile.

And what about this killer 1980 Gibson E-2 Explorer, complete with chunky-ass fine tuner tailpiece?


Maybe you need a cool NIN-owned Jackson Soloist in your life? After all, Trent used Jacksons pretty extensively in the early 90s.


Speaking of Jacksons, Rhoads, anyone?


There’s also this surprisingly un-NIN Paul Reed Smith Custom 22 with Roland GK-2A hex pickup…


Or perhaps you’re more into the Les Pauls the band played and destroyed.

CLICK HERE to see these items and other NIN instruments being auctioned on eBay.

NEWS: Joe Knaggs leaves PRS, Paul assumes Private Stock control

Whoa, didn't see this one coming. Just saw this on Modern Guitars via Guitar Noize's Twitter. It'll be interesting to see where things go from here regarding the Private Stock department.

Paul Reed Smith to Assume Responsibility of the PRS Private Stock Department

Joseph Knaggs, Director of R&D and Private Stock, has decided to leave PRS Guitars to launch his own artistic endeavor. As of July 1, 2009, Paul Reed Smith will assume management of PRS Guitars’ world-renowned Private Stock Department. Both Paul and Joe are looking to a positive future.

Paul Reed Smith stated, “I grew up with Joe. He has been with the company for decades, and I wish him the very best.”

As one would expect, Paul has strong plans for the growth of the Private Stock department. While official announcements will be made in the coming months, one thing that can be counted on is the input and beautiful craftsmanship from the remarkable luthiers of the Private Stock Department who have been building breathtaking instruments over the years. PRS also has many unique Private Stock activities planned for “Experience PRS” being held this September.

PRS Guitars constantly strives to build the highest quality instruments possible. The Private Stock department seeks to raise that bar through material choice, personalized specifications, and the careful, trained eyes of a small group of specialty luthiers. It has been described as “a business inside a business” and has always been a healthy addition to PRS’s offerings. Paul’s talent, instinct, and management make this a natural transition…or as Paul Reed Smith simply said, “I am looking forward to the opportunity to build guitars again.”

About PRS Guitars:
Paul Reed Smith Guitars is a leading manufacturer of high-quality instruments in Stevensville, Maryland and has been providing some of the world’s most renowned guitarists with instruments since 1985. More than 290 highly skilled craftspeople produce more than 70 guitars each day for worldwide distribution. PRS Acoustics and PRS Amps were introduced as new product lines in 2009 with support from renowned artists Ricky Skaggs and Derek Trucks. Carlos Santana, Linkin Park, Chris Henderson of 3 Doors Down and Mark Tremonti of Creed are also among the artists currently playing PRS guitars.

PRS Guitars Info: www.prsguitars.com

NEWS: PRS Starla Stoptail

Although I've always loved the quality, sound and playability of PRS guitars, I never really thought about buying one just because I've been more into other design types. That kinda changed with the Bigsby-loaded Starla, one of the guitars on my "I'll buy it when I'm rich some day" list. Aand now PRS is releasing a Stoptail version of the Starla for folks who aren't as into the Bigsby as I am. Everyone wins!

PRS Guitars Debuts the Starla Stoptail Electric Guitar

The Starla Stoptail has the same retro-inspired vibe as its predecessor with one noticeable difference: it features a two-piece, adjustable stoptail bridge that dramatically alters the look and feel of the original Bigsby fitted Starla model while bringing out more of a mid-range woodiness in the tone. Exclusive double-screw Starla Treble and Bass Pickups are currently standard on all models in the Starla series and offer a bright high-end bark that allows these guitars to cut through the mix.

The Starla Stoptail's solid mahogany body is accented with a 24 ½" scale rosewood fingerboard, a solid mahogany neck and dot inlays or optional bird inlays. Proprietary Alnico magnets incorporated into the pickup design contribute to the guitar's unique clean and crisp sound but are also capable of rich harmonic overtones when driven.

Other features include a uniquely shaped black plastic pick guard, tone and volume pots and a three-way pickup selector. Color options include Vintage Cherry, Vintage Mahogany, Vintage Orange and Black as well as the new metallic colors including Gold Sparkle, Silver Sparkle and the new metallic Hot Hues colors Twilight, Catalina Dream, and Sinful Cinnamon. Starla Stoptail models are currently shipping to authorized PRS dealers around the world.

"The Starla is inspiring to customers and to PRS employees. We wanted to open the door to players who might shy away from the tremolo version," said PRS Sales Manager Rick Hodgson.

The Starla model featuring the Bigsby tremolo bridge was originally unveiled as part of the Experience PRS 2008 open house event. Similar in spirit to the double cutaway Mira model introduced at Experience PRS 2007, the single cutaway Starla and Starla Stoptail have many vintage themed appointments.

NEWS: Paul Reed Smith 50/09 pickup

Anyone tried the Paul Reed Smith 1957/2008 pickups released last year? Well here's the next evolution of that pickup: the 59/09.

PRS Presents the 59/09 Electric Guitar Pickup

The PRS 59/09 is the newest addition to Paul Reed Smith Guitars' 1957/2008 Series™ line of pickups. Slightly darker and more powerful in the bridge with a touch more clarity and brightness in the neck, the 59/09 provides a tonal alternative to the industry revered original 1957/2008 pickups, known for their articulate clarity and rich harmonic overtones.

1957/2008 Series ™ pickups utilize PRS exclusive wire and incorporate proprietary winding and magnet innovations to produce iconic sounds but with unique tonality.

"Guitarists are delighted by the classic sounds of the original 1957/2008. In the new 59/09 we wanted to provide the same vibe but with additional output for those players wanting to drive the amp's front end a little earlier, while providing a wider spread of tone between the neck and bridge pickup," said Paul Smith.

The new 59/09's feature PRS exclusive wire produced on the original machine used to make the classic '50s era pickups. 59/09 pickups will be available on select PRS models shipping in July to authorized PRS dealers.

NEWS: PRS releases new metallic DuPont Hot Hues finishes

Here's a press release from Paul Reed Smith. Please note that PRS sales team member Rick Hodgson is no relation to me, unless he gives out free PRS Starlas at Christmas. Hehe.

PRS Guitars Releases New Metallic Finishes Featuring DuPont Hot Hues
May 22, 2009

Paul Reed Smith Guitars is once again teaming up with long-time partner DuPont and their Hot Hues™ palette of colors to present brilliant new metallic guitar offerings. "Twilight," "Catalina Dream," and "Sinful Cinnamon" make up the roster of new color options offered.

PRS Guitars has been using DuPont paints for more than ten years and has been using Hot Hues™ paint since its inception. Over the span of this partnership, the prominent guitar manufacturer has joined DuPont at two SEMA shows, providing guitars finished in Hot Hues™ colors for the DuPont booth display, and provided a custom guitar for The Jeff Gordon Foundation. This guitar, signed by Jeff Gordon, Chip Foose, and Carlos Santana, was finished in the same paint as the Hot Hues "Heat Wave and Flames" No. 24 DuPont racecar driven by Gordon. PRS also chose the Hot Hues™ line to reintroduce the CE Alder Bolt-on guitar in 2008 with exceptional results.

"We are very proud of our relationship with Paul Reed Smith Guitars and we're very pleased that they have chosen our Hot Hues Custom Finishes for their new line of guitars. DuPont is a company powered by Science and Innovation and that is a great fit with the innovative spirit of PRS Guitars," says Fred Wissemann, Brand Manager for DuPont Refinish and Hot Hues Custom Finishes.

The most recent application of the Hot Hues™ line will appear on some of PRS' newest guitar models: the Mira and the Starla. Rick Hodgson of the PRS Sales Team said, "We are excited to offer these unique colors. They are brand new for us, and we think they will give these already retro-inspired guitars a customized, Hot Rod vibe." These guitars began shipping to dealers in mid-April.

"DuPont Hot Hues products offer the most user friendly metallic paint system we have tried," says Steve Sears, Topcoat Finish Manager of PRS Guitars. "The ease of application, quality of coverage and variety of colors make Hot Hues™ an astounding product line."

Paul Reed Smith Guitars is a leading manufacturer of high-quality instruments in Stevensville, Maryland and has been providing some of the world's most renowned guitarists with instruments since 1985. More than 260 highly skilled craftspeople produce more than 70 guitars each day for worldwide distribution. PRS Acoustics and PRS Amps were introduced as new product lines in 2009 with support from renowned artists Ricky Skaggs and Derek Trucks. Carlos Santana, Linkin Park, Chris Henderson of 3 Doors Down and Mark Tremonti of Creed are also among the artists currently playing PRS guitars.

NEWS: Paul Reed Smith moonlighting as Dr Drew?

This is the second I Heart Guitar lookalike post (remember my suspicions about Satch moonlighting as Bobby on The Kingdom Of Paramithi?). Last night I was watching TV and an ad for Celebrity Rehab With Dr Drew Pinsky came on. My first thought was “Sweet, what’s Paul Reed Smith doing on E! ..?” Don't tell me their latest reality show is 'Woods Of The PRS Private Stock Showroom' or 'Keeping Up With The McCartys.'

So what do you think? Is Paul Reed Smith moonlighting as a celebrity rehabilitation facilitator? That’s Paul on the left and Dr Drew on the right.

CLICK HERE to see Paul Reed Smith guitars on eBay.

NEWS: News for March 20, 2009

Metallica ‘Broken, Beat & Scarred’ single
The forthcoming Metallica ‘Broken, Beat & Scarred’ single is one for the diehard collectors, as well as geeks like me who once upon a time may or may not have religiously collected the Star Wars Fact Files or something similar. A-hem.

The release of the singles will be staggered, beginning April 3.

CD 1 Digipack (With two clear trays to allow additional CDs)
* Broken, Beat & Scarred
* Broken, Beat & Scarred (live)
* End Of The Line (live)

CD 2 J Card (To be collected and to insert into CD 1)
* Broken, Beat & Scarred
* Stone Cold Crazy (live)
* Of Wolf And Man (live)

DVD Single (To be collected and to insert into CD 1)
* Broken, Beat & Scarred - Promo Video
* The Day That Never Comes - Promo Video
* Death Magnetic EPK (Electronic Press Kit - running time - 17:25)

CD Maxi Single
* Broken, Beat & Scarred
* Broken, Beat & Scarred (live)
* End Of The Line (live)
* Stone Cold Crazy (live)
* Of Wolf And Man (live)

Source: Metallica
BUY: CD 1 CD 2 DVD Single

PRS Signature Series cable
True gearhounds know that your guitar cable is an extremely important part of the signal chain. You may have the best pickups and guitar woods in the world, but without a good cable it’s going to sound weak and stinky. PRS to the rescue! PRS Guitars and Bond Music Research introduce the PRS Signature Series Cables, including guitar and speaker cables manufactured to exacting specifications. PRS Signature Series Cable is manufactured from the finest materials by noted UK-based cable stalwart Van Damme. Paul Reed Smith himself said “Every inch of a PRS guitar is based on decades of testing, rethinking, and reinventing. We continue to push the curve and, in regard to our new PRS Signature Series Cable, the same holds true.” PRS Signature Series instrument cables range in price from MSRP $49.95 to $64.95 depending upon length. The company's loudspeaker cable carries an MSRP of $49.95 to $89.95. PRS Signature Series Cable is available through authorized PRS Guitar retailers and is available now. Every cable includes a full lifetime warranty.

Source: Paul Reed Smith.
BUY: CLICK HERE to see Paul Reed Smith guitars on eBay.

Guitar World launches news site – and I Heart Guitar is on it!
This could be quite cool. Guitar World has launched a new site which collates news from various blogs, kinda similar to Digg. I Heart Guitar is listed there, as are some of my fellow guitar bloggers including Truth In Shredding, Guitar Noize, Strat-O-Blogster, Guitar Lifestyle, Me and Mace, Random Chatter, and Jason Shadrick’s Guitar Blog.

Source: Guitar World.

NEWS: Paul Reed Smith gives you free pickups. Kinda.

This was included in the Paul Reed Smith March newsletter:

Introducing the PRS Tech Center PLUS Free Pickups Offer!

That’s right! Any current PRS pickup pair of your choice including the coveted 1957/2008!

In response to numerous customer requests, PRS is pleased to officially launch the PRS Tech Center (PTC) to provide factory repair, set-up, electronics upgrades, refinishing, touch-ups and other services to the PRS family of players.

As a way of introducing PRS customers to our new PRS Tech Center (PTC), we’re offering a great opportunity to buy a (made-in-USA) PRS guitar and receive (2) PRS pickups of your choice, factory installed with set-up at our new PRS Tech Center!

We’ll GIVE you the pickups for your new PRS guitar or even UPGRADE your current PRS guitar! AND, we’ll do a basic set-up absolutely FREE.**

Here’s how it works:

Buy a new PRS guitar anytime between March 1, 2009 until August 31, 2009 from an authorized PRS dealer and receive a FREE pickup set installed for FREE including a factory set-up at our new PRS Tech Center (PTC) in Stevensville, MD!

You can UPGRADE either your EXISTING PRS guitar or the newly purchased PRS guitar to the pickups of your choice as long as you purchase a new PRS guitar during the program period.

When you purchase your new PRS, send the original authorized dealer receipt and completed PRS Guitars PTC SALES PROMOTION REDEMPTION COUPON (available from your authorized PRS Dealer) to the address on the coupon.

PRS will register your purchase and place your reservation at the PRS Tech Center. You can schedule your guitar for upgrade and set-up anytime for up to one calendar year from the date of purchase. Scheduling will be subject to PTC availability. The PRS Tech Center will contact you to provide shipping instructions and projected completion date.

Shipping to PTC is paid by customer with return shipping paid by PRS Guitars.
Any PRS pickup set currently available including the 1957/2008 humbuckers can be specified by the customer!

PRS set-up includes fret dress, truss rod adjustment, new strings, and intonation adjustment. Other adjustments or repairs can be done on a fee basis while we have your guitar at the PTC.

This promotion applies only to guitars purchased by U.S. domiciled end-users from continental U.S. authorized PRS dealers.

**Subject to compatibility with your PRS guitar’s existing switching and/or electronics system. Special requests will be considered on a charge basis.

CLICK HERE to see Paul Reed Smith guitars on eBay.

This is a pretty cool idea. As an Ibanez geek I'd love to see Ibanez do something similar (with Dimarzio pickups), although that's probably not very likely from a logistical point of view. This is a great way of helping users to customize their guitars in an 'official, PRS-approved' way, and it's gotta be good PR too.

NEWS: Nick Catanese leaves Washburn for PRS

Well looky looky. Black Label Society’s Nick Catanese has left Washburn, who made his signature model, and has moved on to Paul Reed Smith. Here’s what PRS had to say about it.

PRS Guitars is proud to welcome Black Label Society Guitarist Nick "Evil Twin" Catanese as the newest member of the PRS artist family. Years ago Ozzy Osbourne and Black Label Society frontman Zakk Wylde dubbed Catanese "Evil Twin" in honor of his epic musical chops that kept the pace with Wylde’s intense live and studio performances. Nick has been with Zakk for the last 13 years and has not only toured the world over numerous times, but has contributed to two live DVD releases, nine studio releases and has hailed the stage for too many Ozzfests to count. Nick has also formed a band with Mike Stone from Queensrÿche (guitar and vocals) Josh Sattler (bass) of DoubleDrive and drummer Mike Froedge of Doubledrive. Their debut album will be released sometime by mid 2009 under the band name Speed X. PRS is thrilled to have Nick join the team and is looking forward to making guitars he can shred to his heart’s content.

CLICK HERE to look for the Washburn Nick Catanese model on eBay, since I guess they've gotta stop making it now!

NEWS: Dave Navarro back with Ibanez?

Check out this footage of the reunited Jane's Addiction rocking the Echoplex in Los Angeles on Monday February 16. Notice anything different? Yep, Dave Navarro's using a white Ibanez RG with a humbucker and two single coils, black headstock, gold-plated hardware, PRS-style knobs and a PRS tremolo. This appears to be an Ibanez LA Custom Shop creation. So is Dave no longer with Paul Reed Smith?

You can see some great photos of the guitar in this thread on Jemsite.



CLICK HERE to buy the Paul Reed Smith Dave Navarro Signature Model Electric Guitar from Guitar Center for $2,968 - who knows, this might be your last chance!

CLICK HERE to see Paul Reed Smith guitars on eBay.

NAMM 2009: New Paul Reed Smith guitars

2008 looks like a huge year for Paul Reed Smith. I've always liked their guitars (although they're not quite my 'type' so I don't know if I'll ever own one), but this year they really seem to have knocked it up a notch. Here are the press releases. Hopefully I'll be at NAMM next year so I can report on this sort of stuff in person.

First up is the Al Di Meola Prism.

The Al Di Meola Prism, world renowned Jazz guitarist Al Di Meola's first signature model PRS guitar, will appear for the first time at NAMM during the winter trade show in Anaheim. The model, which unofficially debuted during Experience PRS 2008, features a stained top with a full spectrum of colors unlike any finish PRS has ever offered. The Prism prototype was completed just in time for Di Meola to play the new model on stage alongside legendary jazz band mates Chick Corea, Lenny White and Stanley Clark during the Return to Forever world tour in 2008.

The Al Di Meola Prism features a highly figured curly maple custom top with mahogany back, 25" scale length, 22 fret Mexican rosewood fingerboard, custom Al Di Meola neck carve, grommet style locking tuners, standard abalone bird inlays, the new 1957/2008 pickups and a tremolo bridge.

When discussions about this new signature model began, Al and Paul Reed Smith were both adamant that the guitar maintained the highest quality and tonal integrity. Al also suggested a tie-dye like finish for the guitar to give it a truly unique look. Paul Smith and the PRS R&D team combined Al's favorite guitar appointments and a full spectrum of colors to create a one of a kind PRS Guitar.

Al Di Meola was one of the very first artists featured on a magazine cover playing a PRS guitar and has supported PRS Guitars for more than 20 years. Not only is the Al Di Meola Prism one of the most striking guitars PRS has ever developed, it pays tribute to a legendary musician who helped lay the frame work for PRS Guitars as a company.

PRS has launched its acoustic brand, Angelus.

PRS Guitars is proud to officially announce the first in a series of acoustic guitars manufactured in its Stevensville, Maryland facility. Nearly four years of design and prototyping with acoustic artist Ricky Skaggs and luthier Steve Fischer have culminated in the Angelus Cutaway and the Tonare Grand models, which are appearing officially for the first time at Winter NAMM. Full production will commence in early 2009.

Newly designed with direct input from distinguished artists, PRS acoustic models come standard with features that are typically considered upgrades within the industry — German spruce tops, beautiful dark rosewood or curly mahogany backs and sides, rare Peruvian mahogany necks, red spruce and mahogany bracing, exotic inlays and rosettes, and thin shatter-hard all nitro finishes. Options include Celtic knot rosettes and inlays, Adirondack red spruce tops, and ebony fretboards and bridges. These instruments incorporate a proprietary hybrid bracing pattern designed to maximize volume, provide a musical balance between the bass, mid-range and warm high-end and give an articulate tonal response. Also uniquely PRS is a super high strength, high modulus graphite truss rod that enhances sonic vibration and an optional proprietary pickup system producing a natural acoustic sound that rivals vintage condenser microphones.

"After years of development, we have created a guitar with a truly unique voice. It is an honor to have these guitars so well-received by such gifted musicians," said Steve Fischer, Senior Acoustic Guitar Luthier.

Endorser Tony McManus, nominated as "Musician of the Year" by the BBC Folk Awards and the Scottish Traditional Music Awards, will be demonstrating these remarkable instruments in a live setting that simulates a studio environment where recorded tones can be experienced. Tony McManus has also been called "the finest guitarist Scotland has ever produced" by the BBC.

The Paul Reed Smith Guitars Mira Maple Top is making its NAMM debut in Anaheim this January. First unveiled during the Experience PRS 2008 event in Maryland last fall, the instrument combines the retro vibe of the PRS Mira with the figured maple tops that PRS customers have come to expect. This new model is an evolutionary instrument stemming from the increasingly popular Mira. The maple top provides the guitar with both a distinctive visual and tonal identity.

New colors and optional gold hardware are also part of this new model's offerings. The new finishes are all wrap-around and include Tri-Color Sunburst, Dark Cherry Sunburst, Whale Blue/Black Burst, Violin Amber Burst and Vintage Natural.

Like all PRS guitars, the Mira Maple Top is comprised of the finest woods and materials available. In addition to the mahogany and maple top body, the mahogany neck and East Indian rosewood fingerboard come with either moon inlays or optional bird inlays. This instrument is a 24-fret, 10" radius, 25" scale length guitar with either regular or wide-thin neck carve. Locking tuning pegs, Mira treble and bass pickups, volume, tone, 3-way blade, and a mini toggle coil tap round out the features.

PRS Guitars' National Sales and Marketing Manager Larry Urie said, "It is a smoking guitar that appeals to a lot of players."

PRS continues to expand its guitar concepts with the introduction of the Mira X, the first 22-fret, 24-1/2" scale-length guitar in the Mira series of PRS guitar models. Appearing for the first time at this year's Winter NAMM in Anaheim, the Mira X's retro inspired design and appointments compliment others in the Mira series, but the flatter, streamlined Mira X top and lighter weight body gives new options to players in search of instruments with PRS craftsmanship, but with subtle and understated style.

The unique X wood palette includes a solid African basswood body, a Sipo mahogany neck and a Pau Ferro fretboard that contribute to the light-weight understated look and feel of this guitar, as do the dot inlays, vintage style tuning pegs and nickel hardware. Mira X Treble and Bass pickups, volume and tone controls and a three-way pick up selector on a black pickguard round out the electronics package. Color packages are Vintage Cherry, Black and Sepia Burst.

"It's simple. It's light. It's classic, and it's powerful. We're happy that after many years of discussing concepts like this, we are finally able to bring them to market and give people new options," said Joe Knaggs, Director of Research and Development. "It's definitely a 'less is more' statement, but quality is still the most important feature of this guitar."

Paul Reed Smith Guitars' Modern Eagle II officially debuts at Winter NAMM 2008 after making its initial appearance during Experience PRS 2008. The newly updated Modern Eagle II builds on the tradition of the original Modern Eagle with premium grade wood, classic Modern Eagle frets and a Modern Eagle wide fat neck carve and adds to that an all new exclusive pickup system, updated finishing techniques, new colors and a Modern Eagle case.

The 1957/2008 pickups offered standard on the Modern Eagle II allow players to achieve both vintage and modern sounds. PRS obtained exclusive rights to the original pickup wire used in the most revered pickups in the 50's. PRS obtained an exclusive to the wire in 2008, and 1957 was the year the humbucker was first commercially available, giving rise to the 1957/2008 name. "We've found a new kind of black rosewood that we're using for the necks and fretboards," said Paul Smith. "We've come up with a way of finishing the neck and fingerboard where it goes down into the grain, and you actually buff out the wood." This buffed out neck finish is achieved using a finishing process developed by PRS and only available currently on the Modern Eagle II.

Curly Modern Eagle grade maple tops with premium mahogany backs and select Dalbergia wide fat necks are standard on all Modern Eagle II guitars. Other features include 22 frets, 25" scale length, custom Modern Eagle II birds with select green abalone bird outlines and iridescent Paua heart filled centers, tremolo or stoptail bridge and a special paisley case with a maroon crushed velvet interior. The high gloss nitro finish is available in four special high-contrast colors: Faded Blue Jean, Charcoal, Red Tiger and Yellow Tiger.

Underscoring the notion that quality guitars need not be prohibitively costly PRS adds to its highly successful SE series with the introduction of the SE Custom 24 electric guitar.

Featuring mahogany body, maple top and neck, plain maple veneer, three-piece wide-thin neck, rosewood fretboard and moon inlays, the SE Custom 24 provides utility and quality at a reasonable price.

Incorporating PRS designed HFS Treble & Vintage Bass pickups, the SE Custom 24 produces a wide range of tonal possibilities enhanced by a variety of switching options including master volume, master tone, and 3-way toggle pickup selector. The SE Custom 24 is only available with a tremolo bridge.

"The SE line continues to provide players worldwide with an affordable guitar of excellent quality," said Doug Shive, SE Line Business Manager. "The SE Custom 24 is yet another great value guitar in a wide range of the PRS SE series instruments."

The SE Custom 24 is available in Black Cherry, Grey Black and Whale Blue.

Incorporating the highly acclaimed 1957/2008 pickups and finished in never before offered PRS proprietary nitro-cellulose burst colors, the Sunburst 22, Sunburst 245 and Smokeburst McCarty make their debut at NAMM 2009. The guitars feature custom grade curly maple tops, wide/fat mahogany necks, mahogany backs, 22-fret East Indian Rosewood fretboards and abalone bird inlays.

The Sunburst 22 is a 25" scale-length double-cutaway model with PRS Tremolo bridge and phase II low mass locking tuners. The Sunburst 245 features a 24-1/2" scale length with single-cutaway body, stoptail bridge and vintage style tuners. The Smokeburst™ McCarty incorporates a 25" scale-length with double-cutaway body, stoptail bridge and vintage style tuners. The Sunburst 22 and Smokeburst™ McCarty each have a 3-way toggle pickup selector, volume knob and push/pull coil splitting tone control; while the Sunburst 245 utilizes a re-configured volume and tone control per pickup and three-way pickup selector. "The PRS team wanted to make a guitar using 1957/2008 pickups but with a totally new PRS style sunburst," said Paul Smith. "The finish team developed new burst colors that really bring the curly tops to life and the nitro-cellulose gives a new look, sound and feel to PRS."

For more information, visit www.prsguitars.com.

NAMM 2009: Paul Reed Smith amps and pickups

Remember that awesome Paul Reed Smith amp that was released in about 1991? The reviews were overwhelmingly positive but the amp didn't last long, and it's taken until now for PRS to jump into full-time amp production again. 

Here's the press release from NAMM.

After nearly four years of close collaboration with master amp designer Doug Sewell, PRS Guitars introduces the highly anticipated PRS tube amp line at Winter NAMM.

"I met Doug Sewell at the Dallas International Guitar Show several years ago and needed an amp for that evening's performance, so I borrowed one of his and was floored," said Paul Smith. "We started working on this series and tried every conceivable component and circuit combination. Derek Trucks, David Grissom and several other known amp tone artists are now using this new amplifier line both live and in the studio. We're pleased to be working with Doug and to have him leading the PRS amp team."

Paying homage to both classic American as well as British amps, Sewell and Smith directed the PRS team to produce a line that covers the needs of varied playing styles while providing some uniquely different tonal possibilities.

The Dallas, Blue Sierra, and Original Sewell models make their official appearance at 2009 NAMM in Anaheim.

Producing clean tones that overdrive nicely, the Dallas harkens to the classic American reverb amps with more useable gain and slightly fuller midrange. Its percussive attack, sweet highs, and solid lows produce open, three-dimensional tone and huge sounding cleans.

Paul Reed Smith is also totally about pickups this year:

Paul Reed Smith acquired exclusive rights to the original pickup wire from the original machine used to make the most revered '50s era pickups in 2008, and 1957 was the year the humbucker was first commercially available, giving rise to PRS Guitars' newest and most exclusive pickup, the 1957/2008. The new PRS Sunburst Series™, the McCarty II, the Al Di Meola Prism and a limited run of solid body electrics introduced at Experience PRS 2008 are presently the only models that come standard with 1957/2008 pickups.

Three models are offered as part of a 1957/2008 Limited Run: the Custom 24, the McCarty and the SC 245. Limited to 750 guitars, the limited run and the new Sunburst Series™ are the only place outside of Private Stock where brand new "old style" McCarty PRS models are currently available.

Paul Reed Smith joked during Experience PRS 2008 and said, "Think of it this way. We're selling you access to these exclusive pickups and giving you a free guitar and case to go with them."

NAMM 2009: Waves GTR Solo free for 1 year

This is pretty cool. Waves Audio is offering the GTR Solo amp and pedal simulation program as a free download with a 1-year license, and not only do you get amp models from Fender, Marshall, Vox and more, there are also models designed in collaboration with Paul Reed Smith.

This is a pretty bold move by Waves and I can’t wait to download it and crank it up. I use a different program for amp simulation at the moment and I’ve been itching to try out Waves, after hearing great things about it from a sound engineer a little while ago.

I’ll try to do a review with some sound clips some time soon, but I’ll probably be pretty snowed under with NAMM coverage for the next week, so why don’t you head over to waves.com and try it for yourself?

Here’s the press release:

WAVES GTR SOLO SOFTWARE IS NOW AVAILABLE AS A FREE ONE-YEAR LICENSE
— Complimentary guitar modeling software features ultra-realistic amps,
cabinets, and stomp effects —

WINTER NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 15, 2009 — Waves Audio announces that its GTR Solo software is now available as a free downloadable one-year license. Featuring 10 precision-modeled amps, 13 stomp effects and 10 cabinets, GTR Solo delivers the GTR family’s studio-quality sounds in an intuitive, attractive software package. Consisting of both standalone application and DAW plug-in components, GTR Solo requires no additional hardware. Guitarists and bassists can simply plug their instruments into their computer, dial up one of GTR Solo’s hundreds of included presets and experience the unmistakable sound and excitement of real amps and effects.

GTR Solo features amp models from Fender, Marshall, VOX and more, created using revolutionary sampling techniques that go way beyond standard modeling. These virtual amps do not merely approximate the sounds of the original gear; they recreate every last nuance. Ten amps are included in total: Clean, Sweet, Edgy, Drive, Overdrive, Crunch, Shredder and SolidState Bass Amp, as well as PRS Scorch and PRS Crush, which were created in association with world famous guitar manufacturer Paul Reed Smith.

GTR Solo’s 13 stomp effects let users created a massive variety of sonic textures: OverDrive, Distortion, Phaser, Flanger, Chorus, Delay, Wah Wah, Spring, Pitcher, Vibrolo, GateComp, EQ and Volume.

Finally, the package includes 10 cabinet models that render the aural sensation of real speakers moving air: 12" Open Back, 2x12" Closed Back, 2x12" Open Back, 4x10" Open Back, 4x12" Standard, 4x12" Vintage, Acme12" Custom, Bass 8x10" Pro, Acme 4x12” Vintage Gibson Skylark and Acme 8” Open Back Hiwatt.

GTR Solo is now available as a free download. Please visit http://www.waves.com/ for download and more information.

CLICK HERE to buy Waves GTR3 Native from Music123.

CLICK HERE to buy Waves GTR3 TDM from Music123.

CLICK HERE to buy the Waves PRS (Paul Reed Smith) Guitar Interface from Musician's Friend.

My favourite stuff of 2008

I'm back from my little Christmas exile, and I'm in a reflective mood, so here, for the heck of it, is my list of stuff I liked this year, in the world of guitar. 2008 was a pretty cool year for me. I wrote about a squillion articles for Mixdown and Australian Guitar, recorded a few tunes, wrote a huge batch of songs for my new band (watch out for us in 2009), interviewed Joe Satriani, John McLaughlin, Zakk Wylde, Steve Lukather, Page Hamilton, Max Cavalera, Bryan Beller, George Lynch and more, and started this here blog (with encouragement from the ever clever Mrs I Heart Guitar, who is an avowed blog-reading fiend).

2008 was also a pretty bitchen year for the world of guitar. We had releases by Steve Vai, Mike Keneally, Joe Satriani, Yngwie Malmsteen, the reunited Extreme, Guns N’ Roses, and even a freaking Van Halen tour (which never made it down to Australia or anywhere else outside North America for that matter… hopefully that will be rectified in 2009, but I shan’t be holding my breath for that one). There were also some very cool gadgets released during the year. So here’s my list of cool stuff in 2008. Click on any of the links to buy the stuff if you like.

General stuff

Meeting Paul Gilbert in person after many years of email communication and two interviews - he was just as cool as I could have hoped.

Hearing from Mike Keneally that he’d checked out my blog. In an email he said “Your website is EXTREMELY readable! Lots of cool articles.” I think I still smile in my sleep about that one.

Attending an album preview party for Trivium, and almost accidentally making a baby with the back of Corey Beaulieu’s head thanks to an uncomfortably posed photo.

Buying a crapload of new pedals while the Australian dollar was at 98 US cents. I went on an MXR spree and bought a Dyna Comp, Custom Audio Electronics Boost/OD, EVH Phase 90, Carbon Copy Analog Delay, and Dunlop Jimi Hendrix Octave Fuzz. Now the dollar sucks again, so I’ll have to hold off on buying a Dunlop Buddy Guy wah and an eBow until it recovers. Dammit.

Music

Extreme - Saudades de Rock

After going their separate ways to join Van Halen (Gary Cherone), farm alpacas (Pat Badger, and with a name like that how could he not be an animal lover?) and release stunningly awesome albums under various band names like Population One, Mourning Widows and Dramagods (Nuno Bettencourt), these guys finally got back together for one of the best rock albums of 2008 and one of the best moments of their eclectic career. I freaken love Nuno’s guitar tone here, all natural and gusty, and the live feel helps smack this one over the line as my favourite new release of the year.

Paul Gilbert & Freddie Nelson - United States

This unexpected new direction follows two highly successful instrumental albums from Gilbert. Sounding like a cross between Queen, Paul’s own solo stuff, and a tiny dash of For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge-era Van Halen, the songs are memorable, the performances are powerful, and the shredding is noodletastic. You should also totally check out Gilbert’s ‘Silence Followed By A Deafening Roar’ CD, which was released earlier in the year. The link above will take you to CDJapan.co.jp, but you can also buy it at Amazon.com now too by clicking here.

Mike Keneally - Wine And Pickles

This album is a collection of alternate or extended takes, unused tracks and various bits and pieces, yet it feels like a cohesive statement which can sit just as comfortably within the Keneally canon as anything else he’s done. The best reasons to buy this album are ‘Feelin’ Strangely,’ an alternate version of ‘Backwards Deb’ with different lyrics and hugely differing mix to the version on ‘Dancing,’ and the amazing ‘Inhale’ with Lyle Workman.

Gear

Paul Reed Smith Starla

When I was a kid, I thought Gretsch guitars were the coolest freaking thing in the freaking world. All that metal stuff really looked like it did something, and I couldn’t wait to grow up and get my hands on one. Later my attention drifted to pointy Ibanezes and never really went back, but I still think Gretsches are cool, and the PRS Starla taps into enough of that vibe to make me say ‘dayum’ every time I see one. PRS, if you can find a way to make a Bigsby perform just like a Floyd Rose without changing the look at all, I’ll let you rebadge the Starla as my signature model. Just putting it out there, okay? Cool.

Ibanez FR series

Yep, I’m an Ibanez geek. What can I say? The second I saw Steve Vai hoist that heart-shaped triple neck guitar on David Lee Roth’s ‘Just Like Paradise’ video in, what, 1988 or something, I was hooked. Having said that, I’m not just into spiky neon metal axes, and my favourite Ibanez in 2008 was the new FR series. These Telecaster-inspired axes feature a fast neck and modern pickup switching options while still carrying more than a little old school soul. I’m sure it’s only a matter of time before someone with a lot of sway in the industry picks up one of these and declares it their main squeeze forever more. It’d be me but I think I need to sell some guitars before I even think about buying any more.

MXR M169 Carbon Copy Analog Delay

I’m not sure exactly when this pedal was released – it could have been some time in 2007 – but I got mine in mid 2008 and it’s one of the best delay pedals I’ve ever encountered. It’s stupidly simple: controls for delay time, number of repeats, and volume of repeats, plus a button which adds a light warble to the delayed effects if you wish (and a few internal controls to adjust this modulation effect if you wanna, but really, they seem to have selected the most useful settings at the factory). The repeats mush up in a gloriously lo-fi way, and they get muddier and noiser as you increase the time between repeats, but that’s part of the charm of this vintage-vibed, sparkly green little beauty.

Bogner Alchemist series

I haven’t even played one of these suckers yet and already they make me go all a quiver. ‘Real’ Bogner amps are kinda outside my financial reach at the moment, so it’s encouraging to see a Bogner amp out there which the majority of players can afford (I’ll be sticking with my Marshall DSL50 cos we’re totally in love, but that doesn’t mean I can’t check out a hot amp from time to time, right? I’m sure my Marshall checks out other guitarists when I’m not looking). Anyway, the Bogner Alchemist series takes the vibe of the company’s far more expensive and covetous amps, and distils it into Asian-manufactured units for the player who wants to show off with a Bogner logo, but doesn’t have the financial wherewithal to hoist an Uberschall and Ecstasy into the back of the van for a pub gig.

So what were your highlights of 2008? Any gigs that totally did it for ya? Any new gear that you would hock your right leg to own? Favourite albums? Meet any of your heroes?