PRS Transformed Unwanted Wood Into Stunning Guitar Finishes, Including One on Paul Reed Smith's Preferred Instrument
In the world of high-quality electric guitars, PRS (Paul Reed Smith) guitars stand out for their exceptional build quality, precision, and aesthetic finishes. But the story behind these distinctive designs is one of serendipity and innovation, as many of the unique finishes on PRS guitars arose from early experimentation and natural variations in wood.
Max Elcik, PRS' Body Team Manager, explains that the colour of the natural wood determines the finish it will receive. For instance, the Emerald Green finish came from wood with a green stain, and Charcoal from wood with a black stain. This approach reflects PRS's ethos of adapting and making the most of available materials, treating their guitars not just as instruments but as works of art with unique character.
One such example is the Charcoal Phoenix guitar, Paul Reed Smith's current go-to guitar, which was made from a 'less-than-ideal' cut of wood. Initially considered unuseable, the Charcoal Phoenix was given a new life, and its unique finish has since graced the stages alongside John Mayer.
This process aligns with PRS's broader design philosophy of problem-solving and innovation through better guitar making, rather than chasing existing models or trends. In fact, some of the finishes that contribute to the distinctiveness of PRS guitars emerged as "happy accidents" that the company embraced and developed into signature looks.
The first episode of a new YouTube series charts this fascinating journey, with Paul Reed Smith revealing the stories behind the discovery of some PRS finishes. Other colourways available in PRS guitars include Sub Zero Smokeburst, Tiger Eye, and Faded Whale Blue.
In a nod to the versatility of their finishes, PRS has even used wood commonly used for fence posts in Guatemala to make guitars. The Black Gold finish plays into the strengths of darker pieces of wood, while the Carroll Blue finish, when applied to something light and bright, can create a stunning contrast.
This commitment to quality and character is evident in every PRS guitar, making each one a unique piece that reflects the spirit of its maker and the serendipitous journey that brought it to life.
- The distinctive Charcoal finish on the PRS Guitars, such as the Charcoal Phoenix, originated from a 'less-than-ideal' wood piece initially considered unuseable.
- PRS' Body Team Manager, Max Elcik, explains that the color of the natural wood determines the finish it will receive, with Charcoal coming from wood with a black stain.
- The first episode of a new YouTube series reveals the stories behind the discovery of some PRS finishes, including Sub Zero Smokeburst, Tiger Eye, and Faded Whale Blue.
- In a nod to the versatility of their finishes, PRS has even used wood commonly used for fence posts in Guatemala to make guitars, such as the Black Gold and Carroll Blue.
- Each PRS guitar is a unique piece that reflects the spirit of its maker and the serendipitous journey that brought it to life, making every PRS guitar a work of art in the home-and-garden and lifestyle categories.
