TEST: PRS DGT

 You have to hand it to Paul Reed Smith. Detached from all the prejudices that are rampant about the company, I know of no other company off the top of my head, which has succeeded so well to develop an independent brand despite a unique collection of trademarks of the two major electric guitar protagonists Gibson and Fender. Either the manufacturers copy the overfathers down to the last detail, or they set out for completely new shores and run the risk of not being noticed by the consumerist mainstream. A truly fitting "In Between" is more than rare.

In addition, PRS maintains a very unique relationship with signature instruments. While the Asian competition in the form of Ibanez or the above-mentioned compatriots only take the really big international names to the chest in terms of "tailoring to the body" and offer the same a custom-made, Paule also often has names that have not yet crossed the Atlantic in terms of reputation, apart from a few insiders.

Who for example is David Grissom? Never heard of him? Well, if you have a soft spot for the second row of sidemen of "big names", you might have heard the name before. John Mellencamp, The Allman Brothers, Dixie Chicks, Buddy Guy, Chris Isaak or even Bob Dylan, among others, relied on his services. Under his aegis, the DGT model was created, which fits seamlessly into the tradition of PRS in terms of design and concept.



Construction

And if it costs me my last breath, I will not tire of fighting the confusion spread by Leo Fender out of ignorance in terms of technical terminology. Now, all together: What does the "T" stand for in DGT? For tremolo! What is a tremolo? A volume modulation! What do we have for a modulation on the bridge construction of the guitar? A pitch modulation! What is this called? Vibrato!!! Properly conceptualized, the model would have to be called DGV. It's a real mystery how many decades this mistake has been kept in the music industry.

At first glance, you can see that the DGT is not a completely new guitar. Rather, one is inclined to call this instrument a PRS McCarty with vibrato system. This is a very accurate statement, as this is the guitar that David Grissom played for many years before Paul Reed Smith offered him a special model.

Grissom's model therefore differs only marginally from the production model, as there are changes in neck thickness (thinner), fret wire (thicker) and pickup selection. Traditionally, the body, respectively the glued-in neck comes in one-piece mahogany, whereby the body was provided with a maple top almost 1 cm thick and more. As almost always, the body was very tastefully milled out in the relevant places and gives the guitar the already legendary curvaceous shape. The guitar was lacquered in the low-sealing but high-vibration variant in the form of nitro-cellulose.

The rosewood fingerboard features 22 jumbo frets, again using the "medium" scale, a sort of "middle ground" between short scale (Gibson) and long scale (Fender) of 635 mm. Small abalone dot inlays serve as fingerboard markers. The instrument is offered in Black, Tobacco Sunburst, Cherry Sunburst and Gold colors. As pickups, two special variants were developed for David Grissom, which are managed by a three-way switch, two volume knobs and a tone knob. The tone control is designed as a push/pull variant and turns off one coil of each pickup when needed.

All the hardware of the instrument is nickel-plated. Locking tuners with a 14:1 ratio are used as tuners, with plastic wings at the ends. The already mentioned vibrato system is the standard PRS variant. The lever is only plugged in and fixed by an internal plastic sleeve. Despite the lack of saddle clamps, the vintage-style system shows amazing tuning stability, which is partly due to the very good adjustment of the instrument, but also to the design of the system. Heavy dive bombs are not the metier of this instrument, but rather the moderate handling of the free-floating suspended system.

Interestingly, the instrument comes from the factory with "male" 011-049 strings and requires appropriate plucking (just my thing ;-). A real change is indeed the neck shaping of the DGT. While one is used to the "wide and fat" variant with a strong "D" from PRS, the DGT takes a more discreet Fender "C" to the chest, which gives the instrument a completely different feel.



Practice

As expected, the entire guitar is superbly crafted and gives no cause for any form of criticism. The DGT lies well in the hand and, due to its strong design, spreads an air of "firm grip", the esprit of a true craftsman. The thicker fret wire makes stringing much easier and due to the higher string tension of the 011 set, you can also use a little more finger pressure without the intonation blowing up in your face.

I liked the custom pickups very much, which especially in the single coil / humbucker interplay showed a very high sound variety. The overtone behavior is exemplary and fits seamlessly into the already good appearance of the instrument. The vibrato system is smooth, tuning stable and conveys the unobtrusive charm of a mature vintage system due to the discreet design in terms of mass and smoothness.


Conclusion

Once again PRS succeeds in bringing its "Best-Of-Both-Worlds" philosophy to the man, this time maybe even a bit more than it was the case before. With the DGT, the basic model McCarty gets a significant boost of more "Fender" in the program due to the changed neck shaping and the modified pickups, which will make especially stylistically flexible musicians sit up and take notice.

The instrument is excellently crafted, sounds excellent and is characterized by a high practical value with maximum transparency. With the DGT, PRS is moving away a bit from its image of "high-brow dentist guitars" to a very good "working man" variant for the "real" craftsman. Who would like to enjoy a tick'n more esprit, combined with a masculine handling, is right with the DTG.


Additional Informations:

PRS Guitars - Crafting Excellence in the World of Musical Instruments
Introduction: PRS Guitars, short for Paul Reed Smith Guitars, is a prestigious American guitar manufacturer renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and innovative designs. Founded in 1985 by Paul Reed Smith, the company has established itself as a major player in the competitive musical instrument industry. With a strong focus on producing high-end electric guitars and amplifiers, PRS has earned a dedicated global following among professional musicians and enthusiasts alike.

1. Company History and Founder: The journey of PRS Guitars began with its founder, Paul Reed Smith, who developed a passion for music and guitar-making from an early age. Born on February 18, 1956, in Bethesda, Maryland, Smith's fascination with guitars led him to experiment with creating his own instruments during his teenage years.
In 1985, after years of refining his craftsmanship and gathering valuable insights, Paul Reed Smith officially launched his guitar company. Initially operating out of a small workshop in Annapolis, Maryland, PRS Guitars quickly gained recognition for its distinctive designs and impeccable attention to detail.

2. Vision and Philosophy: At the core of PRS Guitars' philosophy lies a commitment to excellence in every aspect of their instruments. The company strives to create instruments that inspire musicians to reach new heights of creativity and expression. Their vision is to bridge the gap between traditional guitar designs and modern innovation, catering to a wide range of musical genres and player preferences.
PRS Guitars places a strong emphasis on handcraftsmanship, combining traditional techniques with cutting-edge technology to ensure that each guitar is meticulously built to perfection. They believe that every instrument should be a work of art that embodies the passion and dedication of the skilled luthiers who create them.

3. Product Range: PRS Guitars offers an extensive range of electric guitars, catering to various playing styles and tonal preferences. Their iconic models include the Custom 24, Singlecut, McCarty, and SE series, among others. Each model showcases unique designs, premium materials, and versatile electronics that appeal to a wide spectrum of musicians.
Aside from guitars, PRS also manufactures top-notch amplifiers and guitar accessories, further solidifying its position as a comprehensive brand for discerning musicians.

4. Artist Collaborations: One of the key factors contributing to the success of PRS Guitars is its collaborations with world-renowned artists. Over the years, numerous legendary musicians and guitarists have endorsed and used PRS instruments on stage and in the studio. Notable endorsers include Carlos Santana, John Mayer, Mark Tremonti, and David Grissom, among many others. These partnerships have not only elevated the brand's visibility but have also led to the development of signature model guitars tailored to suit the specific needs of the artists.

5. Innovations and Technological Advancements: Innovation is a constant driving force behind PRS Guitars. The company continuously explores new technologies and materials to enhance the performance and playability of their instruments. From the proprietary PRS tremolo system to the versatile electronics configurations, they are committed to pushing the boundaries of guitar design.
Moreover, PRS actively engages in research and development, collaborating with engineers, luthiers, and musicians to ensure that their products remain at the forefront of the ever-evolving music industry.

6. Manufacturing Process: The production of PRS Guitars involves a combination of modern machinery and skilled handwork. The company's state-of-the-art factory in Stevensville, Maryland, spans over 150,000 square feet and houses dedicated departments for wood preparation, guitar assembly, finishing, quality control, and more.
Skilled artisans work meticulously to shape and assemble each guitar, paying close attention to every detail, from the selection of premium tonewoods to the application of immaculate finishes. The careful craftsmanship ensures that every PRS instrument meets the highest standards of playability, aesthetics, and tone.

7. Social and Environmental Responsibility: Beyond their dedication to craftsmanship and innovation, PRS Guitars is also committed to social and environmental responsibility. They source their tonewoods from sustainable and responsible suppliers, and the company actively engages in initiatives to minimize waste and reduce their environmental impact.
Furthermore, PRS supports music education programs and charitable organizations that promote access to music for aspiring musicians and underserved communities.

Conclusion: With over three decades of experience, PRS Guitars has earned its place as an industry leader, revered by musicians worldwide. Their unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and artist collaborations has resulted in iconic instruments that continue to inspire generations of musicians. As the company continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of the guitar-making industry, contributing to the world of music with its timeless creations.

- Paul Reed Smith Private Stock - Where Craftsmanship Meets Exclusivity
Introduction: The Paul Reed Smith Private Stock is a prestigious and exclusive program offered by PRS Guitars, known for producing some of the finest, most luxurious, and limited-edition instruments in the world of guitar craftsmanship. Launched in 1996, Private Stock represents the epitome of PRS's dedication to innovation, artistry, and personalized service. With an unwavering commitment to perfection, the Private Stock division caters to musicians who seek unparalleled craftsmanship and a unique expression of their musical identity.

Origins and Purpose: The genesis of the Private Stock program can be traced back to the vision of Paul Reed Smith, the founder of PRS Guitars. Recognizing the desire of musicians for truly custom, handcrafted instruments, Smith established Private Stock as a way to offer a highly personalized guitar-building experience. The program was created to cater to the discerning tastes of musicians who seek instruments that go beyond standard production models.

2. Uncompromising Craftsmanship: At the heart of the Private Stock division is an unwavering commitment to uncompromising craftsmanship. Each Private Stock guitar is meticulously hand-built by a select group of PRS's most skilled luthiers, often under the direct supervision of Paul Reed Smith himself. These master craftsmen pour their passion, expertise, and artistry into every step of the guitar-making process, ensuring that each instrument is a masterpiece in its own right.

From the selection of premium tonewoods to the precision inlay work and flawless finishing, every detail of a Private Stock guitar is executed with the utmost precision and care. As a result, these instruments boast not only extraordinary playability but also breathtaking aesthetics that are a testament to the skill and dedication of the artisans.

3. Limited Editions and Exclusivity: Private Stock guitars are produced in extremely limited quantities, making them highly sought-after collector's items. Each year, PRS releases a select number of instruments, often featuring unique tonewoods, finishes, and innovative designs not found in their regular production models.
Moreover, Private Stock owners have the opportunity to collaborate with PRS's master luthiers to bring their creative visions to life. From custom body shapes to personalized inlays and unique electronics configurations, customers can create a guitar that reflects their musical identity and stands apart from any other instrument in the world.

4. Exquisite Tonewoods and Materials: One of the defining features of Private Stock guitars is the use of exquisite tonewoods and materials. PRS sources a diverse range of rare and highly sought-after woods from all corners of the world. From figured maple, Brazilian rosewood, and African blackwood to artist-grade quilted or flamed maple, each guitar boasts a distinct and visually stunning appearance.
The selection of tonewoods is not only based on aesthetics but also on their tonal properties, ensuring that every Private Stock instrument delivers a rich, resonant sound that captivates both players and listeners alike.

5. Artistic Inlays and Finishes: PRS's Private Stock division is known for its intricate inlay work and stunning finishes. Master inlay artists craft meticulous designs using mother-of-pearl, abalone, and other exotic materials, turning the fingerboard and headstock into breathtaking works of art. These inlays can be customized to reflect personal symbols, names, or themes, further adding to the exclusivity of each guitar.
Additionally, the finishing process is done with great care, enhancing the natural beauty of the tonewoods while protecting them for generations to come. The result is a visually striking instrument that leaves a lasting impression.

6. High-End Electronics and Hardware: In keeping with PRS's commitment to excellence, Private Stock guitars are equipped with top-of-the-line electronics and hardware. From proprietary pickups wound to exacting specifications to precision-machined bridges and tuning machines, each component is chosen for its contribution to the guitar's tone, stability, and playability.

7. A Testament to Excellence: In conclusion, the Paul Reed Smith Private Stock program is a testament to the pursuit of excellence in guitar craftsmanship. The division's commitment to personalized service, limited editions, and extraordinary artistry ensures that each Private Stock guitar is a rare and exceptional instrument that surpasses expectations. For musicians seeking a guitar that embodies their individuality and passion for music, a PRS Private Stock guitar stands as an ultimate expression of musical artistry and exclusivity.