Few names in the world of guitars evoke as much admiration as PRS. For 40 years, Paul Reed Smith Guitars has been more than just an instrument maker — it has been a symbol of excellence, a companion to musicians, and a bridge between craftsmanship and creativity. Today, we celebrate this remarkable milestone by looking back at the history, artistry, and passion that have defined PRS Guitars.
A Dream That Began in a Workshop
In 1985, Paul Reed Smith started building guitars in a small Maryland workshop, driven by a singular dream: to craft instruments that would inspire musicians. With meticulous attention to detail, Paul combined traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation to create guitars that didn’t just play beautifully — they felt alive in the hands of the player.
"It's amazing how quickly 40 years can pass when you're doing something you love. I'm grateful for our employees, artists, dealers, customers, and guitar players around the world that have given us their support and permission. Our mission hasn't changed since day one in my first garrett workshop—we want to build the best tools for musicians to do their jobs."
— Paul Reed Smith
From those humble beginnings to becoming a powerhouse in the music world, PRS has always remained true to its roots — building guitars that are as inspiring to look at as they are to play.
A Legacy of Innovation
What sets PRS apart is its unwavering commitment to innovation. Over the decades, PRS has introduced groundbreaking designs like the Custom 24, the McCarty series, and the Dragon models. Each guitar reflects a perfect marriage of form and function, blending timeless aesthetics with cutting-edge features that redefine the standards of performance.
- Unique Carves and Inlays: From the distinctive bird inlays to the retro violin top carves, every PRS guitar is a visual masterpiece.
- Custom Pickups: PRS has consistently pushed the boundaries of tone with pickups that deliver rich, dynamic, and unmistakably vocal sounds.
- Unparalleled Playability: Each neck carve, fretboard, and finish is crafted for the ultimate playing experience.
40th Anniversary Collection: A Celebration of Excellence
40th Anniversary Custom 24 Limited Edition
- A nostalgic homage to the guitar that started it all.
- Featuring a retro violin top carve, old school bird inlays, and PRS’s all-new DMO pickups.
- Only 400 pieces available worldwide.
Private Stock 40th Anniversary McCarty Dragon
- An extraordinary instrument adorned with a 207-piece dragon inlay designed by fantasy artist Jeff Easley.
- Equipped with McCarty III pickups for lush, vocal tones.
- Crafted with a Ziricote neck and limited to 165 pieces.
A Heartfelt Thank You to the Music Community
As PRS looks to the future, its legacy is deeply tied to the musicians who have embraced its instruments. From the studio to the stage, PRS guitars have been the trusted partners of legendary artists and aspiring players. It’s a legacy built on a shared love for music and the belief that a great instrument can unlock something truly magical.
Here’s to 40 years of crafting dreams and inspiring music — and to the decades of innovation and artistry yet to come.
