[NAMM] New PRS Instrument Features

53/10 humbucking pickups

The 53/10 pickup is the latest in the series of humbucking pickups that includes PRS 57/08 and 59/09's (and the smaller aperture 57/08 Narrowfield). First debuting as part of a limited run in the summer of 2010, the distinct 53/10 is described as “the warmest-sounding of the vintage themed family.”

The 53/10 coil wire is made on the same machine that supplied guitar makers in the fifties. Wire specifications for the 53/10 are slightly different than the others and the wire is made using a special process reserved for a single-coil bridge pickup circa 1953; however, the 53/10 is a humbucking pickup.

Smith commented, “There are single-coil guitars from that era that are beautifully big, fat sounding guitars.” With that tone as inspiration, 53/10 pickups are similar to the original 57/08 but with a “sweeter” high end.

Phase III tuners

PRS Guitars new Phase III tuners are also new to the line up for 2011 and will come standard on SC 58, McCarty 58, ME Quatro, and JA-15 models. These smooth high-tolerance pegs feature larger buttons, an open back, and closed housing.

The PRS Tremolo with steel components is designed to offer a clear, expansive tone that sounds especially pleasing in guitars with singlecoil tones.

Two-piece adjustable bridge

Previously only prototyped on Private Stock guitars, the new PRS two-piece adjustable bridge now comes standard on two PRS models: the SC 58 and the JA 15. When executed well, the bridge will enhance the wood’s natural resonance, the company says.

This two-piece bridge has added weight and mass, creating more contact points, which, in turn, create a more resonant, musical instrument, PRS explains. Similarly, machining rather than casting, gives the brass and aluminum bridge a stronger sound, according to the company.

Pattern Regular neck shape

The new Pattern Regular neck shape is similar to the traditional PRS regular neck found on guitars made in the late 80's at PRS’s former Virginia Avenue location.

It is an updated Wide Fat PRS neck style based on Paul’s pre-factory design. These necks were found on the instruments built for Carlos Santana, Peter Frampton and Howard Leese from the late 70's to the mid 80's. The Patten Thin neck follows suit and is an updated version of PRS’s Wide Thin neck.

V12 finish

Introduced at Experience PRS 2010, V12 is a  thin, hard, and clear finish that will not crack or react with thinners, PRS says. It is halfway between acrylic and nitro but with a classic feel all its own, according to Paul Reed Smith, who says “PRS models with this new finish feel and sound like old instruments.”

For more, visit PRS Guitars.