Fireside Chat: A Conversation with Paul Reed Smith, Jamie, and Jack | 2023

Fireside Chat: A Conversation with Paul Reed Smith, Jamie, and Jack | 2023 | PRS Guitars

Рет қаралды 15,760

Күн бұрын

Paul Reed Smith, Jack Higginbotham (PRS COO), and Jamie Mann (PRS President) sit by the fire once again to reminisce on 2023 at PRS Guitars. Grab yourself a warm drink and listen along as the trio discuss major releases from the year, the direction the company is headed in, tales from the early days, key partnerships, and how Paul ended up getting a street named after him. They even have a new friend joining them this year for the duration of the chat. Happy New Years from our family to yours!
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Chapters:
0:00 - We’ve Got a New Friend
0:36 - Time Flying By & Guitarists as Race Car Drivers
5:38 - Release of "Dead Spec" Silver Sky
6:16 - John McLaughlin Private Stock
6:50 - SE DGT
7:59 - MT 100
9:18 - Mark Holcomb Pickups
9:49 - Looking in Two Directions at Once
11:31 - Paul's Red Guitar
12:04 - Paul's Office Being Next to Jack and Jamie's
12:55 - Getting Feedback from PRS Employees
14:03 - 38 Years of PRS Guitars
16:32 - The Landscape of Guitar Manufacturing in 1985
19:59 - Investment in Training & Technology
21:13 - Tours Reopening
23:35 - Focus on Product & People
24:42 - Paul puts a Log on the Fire
24:59 - Evolution of Distribution
26:57 - SE Cor-Tek Partnership
27:55 - Wood Sourcing / Buying
29:32 - Violet Stain on SE Custom 24 Quilt in Indonesia
31:25 - The Dream of a Parts Supplier
32:20 - Sales Climate of 2023 & Supply Chain Issues
33:57 - Dealer Inventory & 20% Off SE Sale
35:35 - Dealer Relationships
38:08 - Paul Reed Smith Parkway
39:23 - Wrap Up

Пікірлер: 87

@prsguitars 7 ай бұрын

From Jack, PRS Guitars COO: Thank you all for your kind comments…your appreciation for what we do helps fuel our fire, pushing us to elevate the instruments and driving our desire to make quality gear. We have thoroughly enjoyed 2023 and look forward to an exciting 2024! We have new products to share as well as improvements in current instruments. Thank you for being with us! PS: To answer a few questions… my daughter agrees that I look like Lena, who is a wonderful animal. The last two chats have been at my house. Those chairs are actually comfortable! They are corner chairs I made from PRS mahogany and curly maple. Thanks again to you all and have wonderful holiday season and a safe and happy New Year.

@bradhardisty1652 7 ай бұрын

I'm going to post something I want PRS see in notes.

@bradhardisty1652 7 ай бұрын

I worked at West LA Music and I showed up when PRS was there in person for a workshop. The Premier of the Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier with Dave Navarro and a couple of other PRS Endorsees. That was the launch of the biggest change in Electric guitar sound since the brown sound. When that first chord rang out. We were all in shock in how different the sound was and the possibilities of that tone. I think that should be covered here because that became the sound of the 90s and still exists today with other Mesa amp etc as things evolve. But, albums like POD Satellite, Creed and so many others were a direct result of that launch at West LA Music and where it went in music for ten years and beyond. It still exists today that want to get there in drop tuning or just that big lower mid push. We were all in shock and look where that combination of the PRS and the Mesa Dual Rectifier and beyond has been on so many recordings. I think that was the biggest tune and guitar innovation after the Brown Sound. We were a huge PRS dealer early on.

@ynned21 7 ай бұрын

I have played guitar for 60 years and then two years ago I had a stroke which altered my ability to remember songs I once played. As a result I sold all of my vintage gear at a well known Nashville store. My Neurologist said that playing guitar would stimulate my brain activity and can restore my memory and ability. After my items sold I played a Paul Reed Smith McCarty 594 Select and it was like I was reborn....I took that guitar home. Later I was able to purchase a PRS Special Select and both guitars have changed my life and my outlook. Thank you Paul, Jamie, Jack and the employee family. What you do means more than just selling a guitar....it changes lives.

@shawnadams1693 7 ай бұрын

Great story, thank you for sharing and best wishes.

@mudwiser1391 7 ай бұрын

All the best Sir.

@JoshuaC923 7 ай бұрын

That's awesome dude

@Yamallama585 3 ай бұрын

God bless you

@gearmeister 7 ай бұрын

The guitar world needed the next Ted MCarty & we are all blessed to have PRS to push the envelope, Merry Christmas PRS & your monster support group!

@guitarradioshow 7 ай бұрын

I told him something similar last month when we sat down for a talk. You’re spot on.

@EM-km8em 7 ай бұрын

We actually need a steve jobs of guitar world. There hasnt been anything new since Les Paul and Leo

@DeepSkyDude 7 ай бұрын

PRS FOREVER!

@SierraAppa 7 ай бұрын

I have never owned a PRS before this year. Now I have 3. I started with a SE hallowbody II, then got the SE Silver Sky and most recently the SE Swamp Ash. So, PRS’s great year has been an awesome year for me. I can say without reservation that PRS has made me a die hard fan. Now I just have to figure out how to afford something from the core series. Thank you Paul for giving me so much joy this year. Now…rock on

@WallyInc 7 ай бұрын

It's this type of sit-down talk that Christmas calls for in any household, and what made me a PRS guy in the first place. Keep up the great work & Merry Christmas!

@aathmpsn 7 ай бұрын

My best friend is starting out with guitar, he's spent the last year with my Squire Strat and a Martin 000jr. But a month ago or so, we were inspired to go to our local shop here in Montana and we both were enamored by the SE Swamp Ash Special. He was enticed by the sale price, I couldn't believe how killer of a guitar it was. He has been blown away by his time with it, thank you for making incredible guitars at a price point regular people can get into. Seriously, thank you 😊 🙏

@shauncox5209 7 ай бұрын

This is why PRS is the best guitar brand. The way they connect with their clients and that you really feel part of the business, part of their family, that’s a beautiful way to build a brand. I’m fortunate to own two PRS guitars. Well Done PRS, and everyone behind and with Paul. The integrity and passion for the instrument and the people is what sets you apart. ❤

@DRChevalier 7 ай бұрын

After a two year wait, I got my 27th PRS this year, a DGT in Eriza Verde. Due to inventory issues, while my guitar arrived in time for Cosmo Day, the artist demo did not arrive and so the first person to play it was David Grissom, even before I did (they asked me of course). Very honoured to have spent time with David and Paul and to have them both sign my DGT. About a year to go on my Modern Eagle V order. Thanks to all at PRS who still believe that being a craftsperson matters. Happy Holidays, however you folks spend the time.

@thedude7726 7 ай бұрын

Happy solstice everyone

@jamestonguet1737 7 ай бұрын

I've been a Luthier for 40 years , and PRS has always been the paradigm in constant innovation and quality . I'm blessed to own 9 , including the Pernambuco Tonare you made for Ricky Skaggs.. THANK YOU !!!! Peace & Prosperity to ALL the PRS Family

@heavybrett-al4082 7 ай бұрын

Thanks you PRS, I brought a PRS SE custom 24....and I can't thank you guys enough, on such fantastic QC and build spec's...I can't put this guitar down . Best year ever in my opinion.

@MoonSpyStudios 7 ай бұрын

These are fun 🎉 🎄 Merry Christmas to the Smith's and family

@erinmylungs8711 7 ай бұрын

Bought my first PRS this year. S2 Custom 24-08 in a custom colour, Matt satin metallic blue/purple. Never even played a PRS before I purchased. Bought on pure reputation. Best decision I ever made as a guitarist 💪🏻

@MetallicA29 7 ай бұрын

Y'all gots my money for the MK and the MT100 this year.😊

@JoshuaC923 7 ай бұрын

That 40 mins went past as fast as 2023. Massive thanks to Paul and the whole team!

@tonychen3368 7 ай бұрын

That "Dead Spec" Silver sky has the best sounds out of that mini toggle switch which activates that pre amp, my god those single coil sounds coming out of that Sonzera are the best sounds I have ever heard Paul, oh my goodness, that guitar is magnificent!

@WEREWOLFCaT_STORIES 7 ай бұрын

I was waiting for this video - and yes 2023 was toooo fast! PRS Guitars is exactly the size it needs to be, and responds reacts accordingly. Paul is LEADING the way in modern production guitars. Best in the business. Be proud of everything it is and will become. Cheers.

@bubbasouth69 7 ай бұрын

I purchased 2 Silver Sky SE’s and they are awesome guitars! Merry Christmas!🎄

@jetmarshall 7 ай бұрын

I just took delivery of my Custom 24, my first PRS guitar. I'm speechless. This instrument is flawless, both in tone and appearance. Thank you for all you do! Keep it up.

@andyw6026 7 ай бұрын

PRS as a company is a wonderful example of how one person, with the right vision and behaviours, can influence so many people, for the better. I wish more companies in all other walks of business were run on this model

@Kaiju007 6 ай бұрын

Bought 4 PRS guitars within 30 days. After I realized how great the first one played!

@ryanmcgrath9869 7 ай бұрын

I've been playing guitar for 35 years. Got my 1st PRS two years ago, a 2021 Core McCarty 594 DC (quilt 10 top w/ Brazilian rosewood). Quickly followed by a 2021 Core McCarty 594 SC (flamed 10 top) . I've since added a mint 2001 Core McCarty (10 top) with P-90s and a mint Core 25th Anniversary Mira with P-90s. I proudly wear the PRS fanboy (fan old man) label. Thank you to EVERYONE at PRS for your obsession and dedication. You've made many guitarists, the world over, very very happy.

@BigDoba 7 ай бұрын

I am super happy PRS is gaining traction for the quality of their work. I just wish they’d bring back the PRS club experience!

@DannyBrooks1 7 ай бұрын

Please make more singlecut guitars with the volume,treble/bass and toggle switch configuration. Having them altogether makes it very convenient and I think it further separates PRS from the herd! As a side note, I own two singlecut Modern Eagle 1’s and they are in my opinion the perfect guitar. Thank you for always innovating.

@geoffforduk 7 ай бұрын

Merry Christmas Gents 🎄

@onlyguitars 7 ай бұрын

The DGT SE is just a wonderful guitar in ecery aspect. the specs are amazing, everything about it is great, and those pickups wow! And I had a DGT Core before. Very good job with the DGT.

@kevinsullivanTCR 7 ай бұрын

So many leaps and bounds this year! Especially for the SE Line, very impressed and proud to own my PRS 😊❤️🎸🔥

@Noitpure 7 ай бұрын

Wonderful chat! Thank you!

@MrBarefoot09 7 ай бұрын

good onya guys

@SpartanPridePod 6 ай бұрын

PRS1 talking and thinking in the mid-80s a lot like "The Process" that Nick Saban & Lonnie Rosen came up with in the late 90s'. A lesson there in itself.

@buzzstankos8532 7 ай бұрын

Thanks for letting me into your world for a brief glimpse. I now have 2 PRS SE guitars (CE 24 & McCarty 594 SC) and quickly realized that they are both way better than the way i play, so i have no need for a Core model. I have kids of guitars, all shapes & sizes and these two make me a much happier player. I say that the music is busting out of them at all times just waiting for me to let it out. Thank you and all your people so very much.

7 ай бұрын

I have purchased 2 PRS electric guitars. Right now I'm calling my Sales Engineer at Sweetwater and ordering the PRS SE Singlecut-Black Gold! You all do great guitars. 2 things, bring back ERIZA VERDE in the SE 594 line AND open a guitar plant in México. We are very skilled. PRS needs to conquer the Latin American market. It's been Epiphone's for decades. The SE line is your entry door!

@wandcfirst 7 ай бұрын

Merry Christmas to all at PRS! I've been lucky enough to own quite a few "high end" guitars, and my 35th Anniversary Custom 24 is untouchable.

@davidgeorge442 7 ай бұрын

Question for Paul - does the type of wood used in the fire affect the tone of the crackle?? Thanks for doing what you guys do. Healthy and prosperous 2024 to the PRS family.

@T.TEXAS.TILLER 7 ай бұрын

Tremendous

@mickstick5112 7 ай бұрын

I recently bought a PRS SE DGT gold top. I can't believe how good this guitar is, and how you made it possible to put this product out at this price point. This has replaced my telecaster as my desert island guitar! I used to hate hearing coil tap/split options, but this makes me play all styles. Wishing you health and happiness over the new year and beyond.

@synonyx 7 ай бұрын

Never lose that culture. You guys and Suhr are at the top of the heap in the guitar industry as far as I'm concerned as you two haven't lost your culture to profits. I own more PRS wood library guitars than anything else!

@MartinMCade 7 ай бұрын

We don't need to go 30 to 40 years in the future to know how good these guitars are. I have a 30 year old PRS guitar and it just sounds and plays great, in spite of all of the dings and scratches from bar gigs. And all of my PRS guitars are that good, maybe even better in one or two cases.

@gtr1952 7 ай бұрын

There is an old saying about a tight bond between a dog and it's owner,... how they "look alike". Now just go back and take a quick look at "Jack and the Dog". LOL Wishing a warm Merry Christmas to this team and everyone at PRS. I support your work with several instruments sprinkled through my collection like a fine spice in a signature dish. God Bless 8) --gary

@leeasbury7273 7 ай бұрын

DEAR PRS: A 594 SE Soapbar model in 2024 would make so many people happy 😊! Merry Christmas

@user-ld3xw8up3f 7 ай бұрын

Thank you for making great guitars.And my S2 is fantastic

@gerrydamour8226 7 ай бұрын

Always believed that the soundtrack of my life came from a Les Paul or a Strat or Tele, so when I started building cigar box guitars, that's the sounds and tones I was looking for. Always been a wood worker but the learning curve for aspiring luthier's is steep, no matter your guitar type. These videos have helped to flatten that curve somewhat. I try to use the reasoning that Paul Reed Smith uses to get to where I am trying to go with a build. Thank you Paul Reed Smith and all your craftsman, your all an inspiration to me. Merry Christmas to PRS and families!! p.s. Really Love my McCarty 594 S2 10th anniversary in Eriza Verde, color matches my eyes.

@williamedwards5582 7 ай бұрын

You knocked it out of the park with the mccarty 594 se. Played one at a store. Love the bigger neck. Hope to get one someday.

@babagadoush1 7 ай бұрын

Hope the DGT SE will come in more color options

@IronPig_75 7 ай бұрын

bought 2 guitars this year - a CE24 semi hollow and I have a Dead Spec coming. I couldn't be more excited about PRS Guitars right now. (And as a car guy, I agree with the comparison - prs is the Porsche of Guitars right now in all the best ways)

@Gibfenez 7 ай бұрын

My favorite company anywhere! Please bring back Experience PRS. Miss the club feeling!

@flybynight1929 7 ай бұрын

Just spent three hours playing my favorite PRS. I own a core from '87, pre-bird inlays, with beautiful abalone moons, Duncan pickups because they weren't doing there own yet, bought from someone famous who played the living hell out of, judging by the wear, a Santana made for the '99 NAMM show, which screams, but I have a prism Al D, and the pickups in it just sing like the best PAF's ever blessed from the heavens through the amp I've had for 50 years. A guitar/amp fit can't have a price on it. I hope they stay focused, success can do weird things to companies.

@samirblaj3012 7 ай бұрын

Mr Paul you will be remembered forever for all the good guitars you made you will be remembered only if your name means the best try at least merry Christmas

@marcinwyc 7 ай бұрын

I am sitting and enjoying my 2016 Custom 24 I bought today and this pops up!

@BGsea 7 ай бұрын

A CEO that is an inspiration and not a douchebag. He's on to something

@sarahmitchell9247 7 ай бұрын

Very cool Myles Kennedy guitars

@luizdejesus6240 7 ай бұрын

Feliz Natal...

@bsmokn57 7 ай бұрын

The SE line has hit the mark. Be proud of that, look at the reviews and see how they have compared to the Core PRS.

@onlyguitars 7 ай бұрын

By the way, any chance at all that you will do a Regular McCarty SE?? I love the Regular McCarty. My favorite model along with the DGT. And I had a 594 Core.

@leftyshep 7 ай бұрын

Love my lefty 99 custom 22! Been waiting patiently for a lefty Silver sky or Fiore!!! PLEASE :)

@babagadoush1 7 ай бұрын

The dog! ☺️

@JS-nf1sn 7 ай бұрын

It's funny, I bought my first PRS this year, a Core C24, and when I got it I called the dealer back and said this thing is like a Ferrari. It's so much better than any other guitar I've ever played that I'm convinced that most people who don't like PRS don't really play guitar very much. Obviously that's not true, but you get my point, hopefully.

@ronmercer7766 6 ай бұрын

Please bring the Fiore into the SE line. Make 2024 a great year.

@ce24prs 7 ай бұрын

Best Guitars And Best Dog(English Mastiff)

@kennyj6666 7 ай бұрын

Please continue to support our local dealers, we need them in our communities. I hope PRS will never sell direct to the consumer. P.S. I love my Custom 24-08 that just arrived 2 days ago. Awesome Guitar guys, keep up the fantastic work. Love the fireside chat!

@TG-of3sp 7 ай бұрын

Got a PRS Holocomb a few days ago. Very nice looking, good sounding guitar. Unfortunately terrible fred spred all over...send it back...

@stuartmellor-3463 7 ай бұрын

You can bet that Paul knows which Tonewood makes the best log fire.

@jeffbriggs4268 7 ай бұрын

This is an Interesting vidreo! Here's an idea for another instrument: a short-scale fretless bass, something like the Fender Mustang bass. One could be a core and another could be a SE at 2 different price points.

@landonbailey 7 ай бұрын

love the pup! those chairs didn't look comfortable :)

@davidhealy7743 7 ай бұрын

I bought my PRS in ‘88 and l would really like to find out about upgrading the electronics on it . Presently it has volume, tone click knob or pickup combination/ choice knob and “sweet switch “ . No adjustable tone . Where in San Francisco area can I get help?

@Blueshade 7 ай бұрын

Whose house are they in? Looks cozy....... 😊

@almightyguitarnerd 7 ай бұрын

I asked my wife who this was, pointing at Paul, and she said it was Steve Martin 😂

@michaelmele4888 7 ай бұрын

Who's playing in the closing?

@BryanEwald 7 ай бұрын

that's me

@michaelmele4888 7 ай бұрын

@@BryanEwald That's beautiful!

@rexbennett 7 ай бұрын

It's getting a little weird watching corporate executives talk to each other as if the information regarding what is going on within the company is news to them, especially when you just shared your offices are next to one another. I'm finding it a bit disingenuous. I currently own 9 PRS guitars. Love you guys, the product and the ethos that got you where you are today. Just talk to us. We're interested.❤

@carlsonloggie 7 ай бұрын

I always wonder why the focus on tone hasn't led PRS to develop neck-through guitars. It's the next logical step -- all the tone producing equipment on the same piece of wood. It hearkens back to Les Paul's log guitar, then the Rickenbacker, the Explorer, and others. I also wonder why your bolt on necks don't use threaded inserts? Screwing directly into the wood is fine the first time, but any time the neck is removed, the screws likely cut new threads. After three of four times, the holes are worn out. Thread inserts prevent this.

@ryanmcgrath9869 7 ай бұрын

Neck- through PRS. Now that's a very interesting idea. My most recent purchase was a neck-through Kauer Banshee.

@bueller8278 7 ай бұрын

I love these but too many ads

@pedraw 7 ай бұрын

what ads?

@DeliRevv 7 ай бұрын

I hate to be the pisser of the parade but the MT100 was the biggest disappointment of the year. When I got mine, there was a very noticeable hum even on the clean channel. And less than 4 mins later, the lead channel completely died. I checked all the tubes which were fine and secure but the channel was not working. I sent it back and applied the money to another amp from a Canadian company that has now become my favorite. Such a shame because the MT15 was such a great amp but the MT100 is a disaster.