Best Paul Reed Smith Guitars for Every Player

As a guitar enthusiast who’s spent countless hours chasing that perfect tone, I’ve had my hands on more guitars than I can count. When it comes to Paul Reed Smith guitars, often just called PRS, there’s a certain magic. They’re renowned for their stunning looks, incredible playability, and versatile sound. But “every player” has different needs, budgets, and stages in their musical journey. That’s why I put together this guide – not just to review some amazing PRS guitars, but also to highlight essential gear and resources that complement the PRS experience, ensuring every player, from absolute beginner to seasoned pro, finds something valuable. Let’s dive in and see what makes these instruments and accessories stand out!

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	The Complete Guitar Player Songbook – Omnibus Edition	View on Amazon
	The Prs Guitar Book: A Complete History Of Paul Reed…	View on Amazon
	Jake Blade Electric Guitar Tremolo Arm System Guitar…	View on Amazon
	The Complete Guitar Player Omnibus Edition | Books 1 2…	View on Amazon
	PRS Paul Reed Smith 6 String SE Zach 594 Electric…	View on Amazon
	Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack, Vintage Sunburst	View on Amazon
	PRS Paul Reed Smith 6 String SE Custom 24 Electric,…	View on Amazon

The Complete Guitar Player Songbook – Omnibus Edition

If you’re looking to expand your repertoire and solidify your guitar skills, this songbook is an absolute gem. It’s packed with a diverse collection of songs, making it incredibly useful for guitarists of all levels. I’ve found that having a physical songbook in front of you, away from screens, really helps focus on the music. It’s designed to be comprehensive, ensuring you’ll find plenty to practice and perform, no matter your preferred genre. It’s not a PRS guitar, but it’s a foundational tool for every player who wants to get more out of their instrument.

• Key Features:

  • Pages: 172 of diverse song content.
  • Instrumentation: Guitar, making it directly applicable to your practice.
  • Comprehensive selection suitable for various skill levels.
  • Provides sheet music and chord diagrams for easy learning.

• Pros:

  • Great value with a large collection of songs.
  • Excellent for skill development and learning new material.
  • Physical format is easy to use and portable.
  • Suitable for beginners and intermediate players.

• Cons:

  • May not include very advanced pieces for expert players.
  • Doesn’t come with audio tracks for listening along.

• Best for: Beginners and intermediate guitarists looking to build a varied song repertoire.

User feedback summary: Many users praise its wide selection and clear presentation, finding it a valuable resource for learning and enjoyment.

The Prs Guitar Book: A Complete History Of Paul Reed…

For anyone truly passionate about their Paul Reed Smith guitars, or considering owning one, this book is an essential read. I picked it up years ago, and it’s a fascinating deep dive into the brand’s origins, innovations, and iconic models. It’s not just a dry history; it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, offering stunning photography and detailed insights into what makes PRS instruments so special. This book helps you appreciate the heritage behind the beautiful guitars, making you a more informed and appreciative owner or aspiring owner.

• Key Features:

  • Details Every Facet of the Wonderful Electric Guitars Made by PRS.
  • Updated to Include all the Latest Information on the Acclaimed Singlecut Models.
  • Dynamic Color Photography Spotlights Outstanding PRS Guitars.
  • Provides a Photo-Essay on the Making of a PRS Guitar.
  • 174 Pages of rich content and visuals.

• Pros:

  • Comprehensive and authoritative history of PRS.
  • Visually stunning with high-quality photography.
  • Offers deep insight into PRS design and manufacturing.
  • Great for collectors, fans, and anyone interested in guitar history.

• Cons:

  • Not a how-to guide for playing guitar.
  • May become outdated as new PRS models are released (though updated frequently).

• Best for: PRS enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone curious about the brand’s legacy and craftsmanship.

User feedback summary: Readers consistently highlight the book’s beautiful photography and its thorough, engaging narrative about the history of PRS.

Jake Blade Electric Guitar Tremolo Arm System Guitar…

Even the best guitar can be enhanced with the right accessories, and the Jake Blade is a unique one. This isn’t a guitar, but a clever tremolo arm system. I’ve always been intrigued by innovations that offer new ways to control pitch and expression. The Jake Blade aims to provide an alternative to traditional “whammy bars,” offering a different feel and potentially more nuanced control over vibrato. For players who love to experiment with their sound and want a distinct tremolo experience, especially on their PRS electric guitars, this could be a really interesting addition.

• Key Features:

  • The Jake Blade is an innovative breakthrough for guitarists looking for an alternative to the traditional “whammy bar.”
  • Paul Reed Smith Jake Blade Electric Guitar Tremelo Arm System Guitar Accessory PRS – directly associated with the PRS brand.
  • Designed for enhanced tremolo control and expressiveness.
  • Offers a unique ergonomic design.

• Pros:

  • Provides a distinct tremolo experience compared to standard bars.
  • Can offer finer control over pitch bending.
  • Easy to install for most guitarists.
  • Durable construction.

• Cons:

  • Requires a bit of getting used to for players accustomed to traditional tremolos.
  • May not be compatible with all bridge types (check compatibility).

• Best for: Electric guitar players, especially those with PRS or other quality electrics, who want to explore new tremolo techniques and alternative whammy bar options.

User feedback summary: Users often note its innovative design and the fresh feel it brings to tremolo use, though some mention a learning curve.

The Complete Guitar Player Omnibus Edition | Books 1 2…

This is another fantastic resource for aspiring and current guitarists. Similar to the other songbook reviewed, this “Omnibus Edition” combines multiple books, offering a wealth of material. What makes this one particularly appealing for “every player” is the inclusion of online audio. Learning from a book is great, but being able to hear how the songs or exercises should sound is invaluable. It’s perfect for self-learners and those looking to systematically improve their skills, whether they play an entry-level acoustic or a high-end Paul Reed Smith electric guitar.

• Key Features:

  • Book/Online Audio combination for a comprehensive learning experience.
  • Pages: 128, providing ample learning content.
  • Instrumentation: Guitar, focusing purely on guitar skills.
  • Combines multiple learning books into one package.
  • Offers structured lessons and exercises.

• Pros:

  • Online audio greatly aids in learning and practice.
  • Comprehensive content suitable for beginners to intermediate players.
  • Good value for the amount of material included.
  • Clear and easy-to-understand instructions.

• Cons:

  • Content might be too basic for advanced players.
  • Requires internet access for the online audio.

• Best for: Self-taught guitarists, beginners, and those looking for structured lessons with audio support.

User feedback summary: Many appreciate the added online audio feature, stating it makes learning much more effective and enjoyable.

PRS Paul Reed Smith 6 String SE Zach 594 Electric…

Now we’re talking about an actual Paul Reed Smith guitar! The SE Zach Myers 594 is a true standout in the PRS SE line, offering incredible value and a distinct vintage feel. I’ve played a few of these, and they truly capture that classic PAF-style humbucker tone with modern reliability. The “594” in its name refers to the slightly longer 24.594” scale length, which feels amazing under the fingers and contributes to its warm, articulate sound. The chambered mahogany body and maple top give it great resonance and sustain, making it a joy to play for blues, rock, and jazz. This is definitely one of the best Paul Reed Smith guitars if you’re looking for that vintage-inspired singlecut vibe without breaking the bank.

• Key Features:

  • Chambered mahogany body with maple cap and flame maple veneer, for resonance and looks.
  • 22-fret, 24.594” scale length neck, for comfortable playability and distinct tone.
  • PRS adjustable stoptail bridge, for tuning stability and sustain.
  • Vintage-style tuners, for classic aesthetics and reliable tuning.
  • PRS-designed 245 “S” pickups paired with two volume and two tone controls, offering versatile tonal options.
  • 3-way toggle pickup switch, for easy pickup selection.
  • Includes gig bag, for protection and portability.

• Pros:

  • Exceptional build quality and finish for its price point.
  • Versatile tones suitable for many genres.
  • Comfortable neck profile and excellent playability.
  • Great sustain and resonance from the chambered body.
  • Comes with a gig bag.

• Cons:

  • SE line isn’t made in the USA (if that’s a preference).
  • Fixed bridge might not appeal to tremolo users.

• Best for: Players seeking a vintage-inspired singlecut electric guitar with modern playability and the classic PRS quality, especially for blues, classic rock, and jazz.

User feedback summary: Owners rave about its beautiful finish, comfortable neck, and the warm, articulate tones from the 245 “S” pickups, often comparing it favorably to much more expensive guitars.

Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack, Vintage Sunburst

Okay, so this isn’t a Paul Reed Smith guitar, but it is an incredible package for “every player” just starting their journey. Many of us began on something like this, and it provides everything you need to start playing right away. The Epiphone Les Paul Special-II LTD is a solid beginner guitar, and having the amp, tuner, strap, picks, and gig bag included means no additional purchases are necessary to get started. It’s a fantastic entry point into the world of electric guitar, and once you master the basics, you might just find yourself aspiring to a beautiful PRS. This pack truly addresses the needs of a beginner player comprehensively.

• Key Features:

  • Epiphone’s Les Paul Player Pack has everything you need to start playing guitar right away.
  • It includes a genuine Les Paul Special-II LTD guitar featuring two classic humbucker pickups.
  • A 10-watt Electra guitar amp with a 10ft guitar cable is part of the package.
  • Epiphone also includes a clip-on headstock chromatic tuner, a guitar strap, medium picks, and an easy-to-carry gig bag.
  • And best of all for new players, the Les Paul Player Pack comes with free downloadable guitar lessons from media.

• Pros:

  • Complete starter kit, no extra purchases needed.
  • Quality Epiphone guitar, a good platform to learn on.
  • Includes a small practice amp and essential accessories.
  • Free lessons are a huge bonus for beginners.
  • Excellent value for money.

• Cons:

  • Entry-level components, advanced players will want an upgrade quickly.
  • The 10-watt amp is only suitable for quiet practice.

• Best for: Absolute beginners looking for a complete, affordable electric guitar starter pack to jumpstart their musical journey.

User feedback summary: New players consistently praise the convenience and value of having everything in one box, allowing them to start playing immediately.

PRS Paul Reed Smith 6 String SE Custom 24 Electric,…

The PRS SE Custom 24 is, without a doubt, one of the most iconic and popular Paul Reed Smith guitars ever made, and its SE version brings that legendary design within reach of more players. I’ve always admired the Custom 24’s blend of playability, aesthetics, and tonal versatility. The “wide thin” neck carve is incredibly comfortable for fast playing, and the 85/15 “S” pickups are designed to cover a huge range of sounds, from sparkling cleans to aggressive rock. If you’re looking for a versatile, reliable, and absolutely stunning instrument that embodies the core of PRS design, the SE Custom 24 is a top contender for the best Paul Reed Smith guitar for a wide range of players.

• Key Features:

  • Features a maple top with a shallow violin carve, mahogany back, and a wide thin maple neck, for classic PRS tone and feel.
  • Rosewood fretboard with bird inlays, a signature PRS aesthetic touch.
  • PRS patented molded tremolo bridge, for excellent tuning stability and expressive pitch bends.
  • 85/15 “S” pickups paired with a volume, push/pull tone control, and 3-way blade pickup selector, offering a vast tonal palette.
  • Includes Gig Bag, for convenient transport and protection.

• Pros:

  • Incredible versatility for various music genres.
  • Comfortable “wide thin” neck profile for fast playing.
  • Beautiful aesthetics with bird inlays and flame maple veneer.
  • Reliable tremolo system.
  • Excellent build quality for its price point.
  • Comes with a gig bag.

• Cons:

  • The “wide thin” neck might not suit players who prefer chunkier profiles.
  • As an SE model, it’s not made in the USA.

• Best for: Intermediate to advanced players seeking a versatile, high-quality electric guitar that embodies the classic PRS Custom 24 design, suitable for any genre.

User feedback summary: Players consistently praise its stunning looks, comfortable playability, and the incredible tonal range offered by the 85/15 “S” pickups, often calling it a “workhorse” guitar.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When looking at this selection, it’s clear we’re addressing “every player” in a very broad sense. For the absolute beginner, the Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack is the standout. It’s a fantastic, all-in-one solution that takes away the guesswork, providing a decent starter guitar, an amp, and all necessary accessories to get strumming right away. It’s not a PRS, but it sets the foundation for a future PRS owner.

If you’re already playing and looking to deepen your understanding or expand your musical library, the songbooks (The Complete Guitar Player Songbook – Omnibus Edition and The Complete Guitar Player Omnibus Edition | Books 1 2…) are invaluable. The latter, with its online audio, gets a slight edge for self-learners. Meanwhile, the PRS Guitar Book is purely for the enthusiast – a rich, visual history for those who admire or own Paul Reed Smith guitars.

Now, for the actual Paul Reed Smith guitars, we have two fantastic options from the SE line. The PRS Paul Reed Smith 6 String SE Zach 594 Electric offers a more vintage-inspired, singlecut feel with a slightly longer scale and specific humbuckers that deliver warm, articulate tones. It’s great for players leaning towards blues, jazz, and classic rock. On the other hand, the PRS Paul Reed Smith 6 String SE Custom 24 Electric is the quintessential PRS, known for its incredible versatility, comfortable “wide thin” neck, and expressive tremolo. This model is a true workhorse capable of handling virtually any genre. Choosing between these two PRS SE models often comes down to personal preference for neck feel, bridge type (fixed vs. tremolo), and a slight tonal difference in pickups, but both represent phenomenal value and genuine PRS quality.

Finally, the Jake Blade Electric Guitar Tremolo Arm System is an interesting accessory for electric guitar players who want to experiment with their tremolo system, potentially offering a new level of expression for their existing guitars, including their Paul Reed Smith electric guitars. It’s an upgrade that enhances playability rather than a complete instrument.

Final Verdict

Navigating the world of guitars and accessories can be overwhelming, but hopefully, this guide helps simplify your choices. If you’re just starting out, the Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack is your most straightforward path to playing. For those wanting to learn new songs or improve their technique, either of the Complete Guitar Player Omnibus Editions will serve you well, with the online audio version being particularly helpful.

For the true Paul Reed Smith enthusiast who loves the brand’s history and craftsmanship, The PRS Guitar Book is a must-have coffee table companion. And for players looking to enhance their existing instrument, the Jake Blade offers a unique approach to tremolo.

But when it comes to the best Paul Reed Smith guitars themselves, you can’t go wrong with either the PRS Paul Reed Smith 6 String SE Zach 594 Electric or the PRS Paul Reed Smith 6 String SE Custom 24 Electric. The SE Zach Myers 594 excels with its vintage vibe and rich, articulate tones, perfect for the classic rock and blues player. However, for a truly versatile, iconic, and visually stunning instrument that can tackle almost any musical style, the PRS SE Custom 24 stands out as a top recommendation. Its blend of playability, tonal range, and classic PRS aesthetics makes it an outstanding choice for any serious player looking for a high-quality electric guitar that will last a lifetime.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: What makes Paul Reed Smith guitars so special?
A1: Paul Reed Smith guitars are celebrated for their exceptional craftsmanship, stunning aesthetics (often featuring beautiful flame maple tops and bird inlays), and versatile tones. They’re known for blending the best aspects of classic American guitar designs (like Fender and Gibson) into unique, highly playable instruments with a distinct voice.

Q2: Are PRS SE guitars good quality, even though they’re not made in the USA?
A2: Absolutely! PRS SE (Student Edition) guitars are highly regarded for their excellent build quality and value. While manufactured overseas, they adhere to strict PRS quality standards and designs, offering a professional-level instrument at a more accessible price point. They are consistently among the best Paul Reed Smith guitars for their category.

Q3: Which PRS guitar is best for beginners?
A3: While the Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack is a great starter kit, for a true Paul Reed Smith guitar, beginners might find the PRS SE Custom 24 or SE Standard models to be a good starting point within the PRS lineup. They offer great playability and versatile tones. However, if your budget allows, any PRS SE model provides a fantastic playing experience right from the start.

Q4: How do the PRS SE Zach Myers 594 and SE Custom 24 compare in terms of sound?
A4: The PRS SE Zach Myers 594 typically offers a warmer, more vintage-voiced tone, reminiscent of classic humbucker sounds, thanks to its 245 “S” pickups and specific scale length. The PRS SE Custom 24, with its 85/15 “S” pickups, is designed for greater clarity and a broader tonal range, capable of sparkling cleans and aggressive modern rock tones, making it more versatile across genres.

Q5: What’s the significance of the “bird inlays” on Paul Reed Smith guitars?
A5: The bird inlays are a signature aesthetic feature of Paul Reed Smith guitars. They represent various birds from Paul Reed Smith’s personal experiences, from the start of the fretboard (a hawk) to the highest frets (a landing swan). They’re iconic and instantly recognizable, adding to the visual appeal and unique identity of PRS instruments.

Q6: Can I use the Jake Blade tremolo system on any electric guitar?
A6: The Jake Blade is designed to be an alternative tremolo arm for guitars with specific tremolo bridges. While it can be installed on many electric guitars, it’s crucial to check its compatibility with your guitar’s specific bridge system before purchasing to ensure it fits correctly.

Q7: Are there any accessories recommended for new PRS guitar owners?
A7: Beyond the basics (tuner, picks, strap, cable), a good quality gig bag or hard case (many PRS SE come with a gig bag), a guitar stand, and a high-quality instrument cable are always recommended. For deeper engagement with the brand, The PRS Guitar Book is a fantastic resource to learn more about your instrument’s heritage.