I own a few private stocks and for myself, they are absolutely worth it. Like many others, I figured they couldn’t be much better than the core models as I owned a couple cores at the time which blew me away. But once I owned my first PS, it just really blew me away like none other. The main reason for them being worth it, is the inspiration and happiness they bring me. No other guitars on the planet bring the smiles and joy of playing like the PS do. They just have something to them and I love them more everyday.
I was always someone who didn't understand why people pay even 3 or 4 thousand on a guitar. I owned and loved and gigged lots of 500-1K dollar guitars, never could understand how anything could be that much better. But when I decided to treat myself to my McCarty, I knew almost instantly what the fuss was about. I still don't see myself sending 10k on a guitar, but especially something intensely personal like a wedding gift from your wife, I can understand how it's worth every penny at that point.
I bought a McCarty Ten Top and it is definitely worth the money I paid for it, somewhere around 4K I believe. There's just something about it that separates it from the rest of the pack. That's a helluva gift you have there, congrats!
Absolutely beautiful guitar! My thoughts... I own three PRS guitars...core Custom 24, CE 24, and an SE 245. I also own a gibson Les Paul, fender American strat, etc. In terms of sound my se 245 shockingly sounds as good in every way as my Core 24...minus the coil tapping that 24 has. And my CE sounds arguably better than both depending on music style. Companies are very good at convincing people that you have to spend $5k - $10k to get better sound and quality... which is far from true. They tell you the woods in the really expensive ones make them sounds better... but that's not true for every guitar. My SE 245 is made cheaply in Korea and feels and sounds as great as any expensive guitar I have every played... just as clear, sustain just as good, etc. But the top obviously is inferior astetically. The tuners are better on more expensive guitars but can be changed out for peanuts. The pickups are Asian made but sounds just as good surprisingly. Gibson studios also sounds just as great as the more expensive Gibson's. You may need to be pickier in the ones you select because they don't go through the same hand picking process that the really expensive ones do... but if you know about guitars you can find a green for cheap. So, why do I own several expensive guitars... well because I collect guitars... I think they are works of art...I can afford them...and think I'm cooler in my own mind with them lol. Now they're are some terrible low end guitars. The SE Custom 24 plays and sounds like a cheap toy to me... but the SE 245 custom from Korea...and tremonti, Chris Robertson SE 245 sound epic... which is why pro musicians tour with them. Again, I do love expensive beautiful guitars too... and it's great to have something like this as a gift that you can remember forever and pass down to kids... but after playing pro for 20 years and owning a significant number of expensive and cheap guitars at the end of the day have come to the conclusion that you aren't getting your money's worth it if the high end ones... just a beautiful piece of art and boost to your ego... and envy from other guitar players lol. Not to be critical... but your guitar playing is decent... but I can tell it's very average. Once you get to be more pro level you will be able to understand tone a bit more and know great tone doesn't always come with a high price tag. Look at the guitar player from Queen for instance. He made his own guitar from crappy piece of wood in his chimney and it sounds epic. Go watch Chris Robertson play his signature SE...or Bernie Marsden... and you will know what I'm talking about...
It’s a work of art. It’s like buying a low end Tesla ( if there is such a thing ) compared to a high end. They both will get you where your going in style, but the feeling of something made so well and in the private stock one of a kind, can’t be evaluated apples to apples. It’s a lot more personal. I will get one before I die. And if my wife gets her way, probably the day before…….
I just bought my first PRS recently. Semi Hollow Special 10 top. It is the most expensive guitar I own, and I traded two guitars to get it. Just like you, I can’t put it down. When I’m not playing it, I’m staring at it. I can’t imagine what a Private Sock would be like. Down the road, I will absolutely get a PS. You can’t put a price on something that is an extension of yourself, and makes you happy. Great video. Your guitar is gorgeous.
@@breadyegg Dont do that to yourself. Whatever gear that makes you happy and that you can afford, buy it! Gear shouldn’t be measured to skill, only how happy and inspired it makes you.
Dude, that is an absolutely STUNNING guitar. I’m not a “purple man” per se but good god....I would play that any day. The various northern lights private stock models are my personal holy grails. I’ll probably add one to the ole collection someday. The funny thing about guitarists is that we’re still kind of street level, “gutter” musicians. Not that it’s a bad thing...it’s just part of the romance. A violinist, concert piano or oboe player doesn’t bat an eye at a $10,000 instrument. On the other hand, you will see guitarists who get legitimately angry at the prospect of paying ten grand for an instrument...so the “culture” just isn’t there yet. Maybe someday? Who knows...
Always been a dream of mine to own a PRS since I was a child and saving now to somehow buy a CU24 SE. Hopefully, after I graduate from college someday I can own a Core or a Private Stock or a Wood Library. They're works of art no question
I have had guitars from a number of the boutique small builders that I was told were all on the same level as PS (McNaught, Suhr, Thorn, McInturff, Anderson...a TON of them) so I was completely happy with what I had.....then I received my first PS and was COMPLETELY AWESTRUCK....the guitar was by leaps and bounds nicer than any other guitar I had ever owned up to that point. Like anything else, there are some that just seem better than others, as I have now had a number of different PS's in my hands and some are absolutely MAGICAL while others I would question the final price tag for sure. If you get one of the spectacular ones, you will absolutely realize that its not hype when people talk about PS guitars. Mine has a number of what PRS calls upgrades...with gold surrounds on the inlays, solid rosewood neck, etc...and the craftsmanship and quality is simply breathtaking....to ME it is worth every penny I paid and then some....no one could ever look at or play that guitar and not realize that its "special"....it may not be thier bag, but no way has anyone ever said it wasnt a spectacular guitar
Anthony: I bought a Santana lll Private Stock 2014. Truly a work of art. Its beautiful and an inspiration to play. New...$9,300 Thanks for the vid. ✌♥️ jr
Lovely guitar Anthony. I've owned a couple of Private Stocks as well as a number of core American PRS guitars. Private Stock's are an extravagance in my opinion. Undoubtedly the attention to detail and choice of woods is mind-blowing from an aesthetic viewpoint, but in terms of sound and playability I don't feel or hear any difference when compared to core American guitars. I know of a couple of people who have bought new Private Stocks as an 'investment', which is shear madness as they plummet in value post-sale. All of that said, Private Stocks are beautiful instruments but I would always pick one up second-hand as there's very little difference price-wise between a used PS and a new core PRS.
Me too... you are so right on... shows how good the marketing folks in these companies are at convincing people. I have high end core 24, CE 24, and SE 245... Gibson Les Paul, etc...and the cheap SE sounds just as good or better than my core...minus the coil tapping on the 24. All of this higher end wood talk is just BS... other than to make top look prettier...
Hey, just holding a custom shop in your hands makes you feel better about it.... there’s an intrinsic heightened sense of awareness that easily makes these worth the price. You literally play better because of the euphoria of the instrument. Great vid! Thanks!
That instrument is a work of art, a beautiful guitar and a dream come true (for you). So it is not expensive. I have a PRS SE Santana, which to me already seems like a work of art, a dream come true (for me), and a beautiful guitar. Value and price are two different things, which we often confuse.
I’m sure it plays wonderfully and it looks like a million bucks but for the price I could get a couple or 3 hyper high end custom shops that have become reputable as of the past 10 years. Congrats, though! And yes, we are lucky to be surrounded by wonderful gear these days.
That top is out of this world. Combined with the rosewood neck, it's pretty much a holy heirloom grail. Edit: Wanted to add that I am super happy that you play it and let it wear.
Great video! I’ve been looking into getting a PRS wood library, and I think you may have convinced me! I’ve only had cheap shit up until last year, and I now know that custom built/high end instruments are superior.
Judging by other gear sitting back there you can already afford some nice stuff. I would love to have a Private Stock guitar, but I will probably never be able to justify spending more than $1500 on a guitar or any other piece of gear.
The chances are playing guitar is his thing. Most people have several small hobbies rather than the 1 thing they live and breathe. I applaud anyone who’s willing to invest in a hobby that deeply, he knows what makes him happy and what he wants from life - that’s more than most of us can achieve.
I wouldn’t but a private stock because I can’t afford it, don’t feel like I deserve it as a player and I’d be too scared of damaging it. I can really appreciate the craftsmanship and exclusivity though. It is like owning a corvette in the guitar world. If you put in the work in life to be able to afford it, there’s nothing wrong with treating yourself. Congrats and the purple is gorgeous!
I have a few and think it’s worth it but I also know that it will stand the test of time. My nephews one day will have them and enjoy them as much as me.
You have a beautiful private stock guitar however it is something that will never be affordable to me. I recently got my first PRS. It’s only a Korean made SE Custom but it is a 1 of 25 blue quilted Maple guitars the store custom ordered and I absolutely love it.
I would love to know how difference that quality of wood makes in the sound. Although I can’t afford one, I would absolutely buy one. It would be a 1 and only that would be mine.
I have two private stocks .. $15999 and $17125 retail both and two Core. Are the private stock way better? No… are they beautiful works of art that inspire me to play? Absolutely.
I love the comparison you made against your friend who’s looking at a new Tuba as I don’t see this open minded yet relevant comparison often. Cost is relative, obviously. But guitar as a hobby/instrument is actually very accessible to anyone, regardless of ability or money. Playing guitar can get expensive with all of the additional kit you might need - Amps, Pedals, Straps, Strings etc, but compared to to a Grand Piano or a Violin it’s a fraction of the cost - even for a one off custom PRS that’s made by some of the best luthiers on the planet. Their time costs money. Yes a Private Stock guitar is expensive, if you think it’s too much then don’t buy one - it’s obviously not intended for you as a customer. People seem to think there’s a relationship between playing ability and value of an instrument when there isn’t, it’s bullshit. Buying a “better” guitar doesn’t make the player better, people know that - they buy something that inspires and encourages them to play. If having this guitar makes this man happier then good for him, it’s rare to find people that get happiness from the little things. Stop sucking the life out of everyone else just because you’re miserable and don’t have shit figured out either..... I think the majority of people have forgotten the value of a hand crafted item that’s tailored exclusively to your needs alone. Everything is mass produced nowadays and quality control has shot up in the last decade or so. Top tier phones and laptops were made of plastic when I was younger, Aluminium wasn’t even an option. Now? Anything less than Aluminium is now considered cheap and unacceptable.
I am always afraid to leave my guitar out on a hanger or leave it out on display and so I wanted to know if you have any experience with your purple fading from being in the light or getting hit by sunshine or if you have any issues with tuning stability or neck warpage anything like that from being exposed I play my stuff every day but I keep it in a case because I’m afraid of that stuff. Would you please let me know your experiences?
I've seen many PRS Privite Stocks Come out of Brian's Guitars. Truely Beautiful. No Doubt. If you love any guitar . It's worth it. I've seen some Wood Library as well. Beautiful as well. It's Close. That's the Route I went last week. McTREM. But I've had both . PRS is making there mark. Love Classics as well. But PRS stands right there with them.
HOLY SHIT!!!! $10,000!!!! I couldn't do it,I understand specifically wanting your personal guitar.....but when it comes down to the nutz & boltz of a guitar,its wood and some electronics and that's it,bottom line. I love guitar, I've been playing since 1990 but there NO FU#ΩING way I would spend that much on a piece of wood. Regardless of my opinion its still a beautiful instrument and congrats on your P.S. PRS.
3-5k is really the limit I’m willing to spend on a guitar. That’s not to say private stock isn’t worth it because they absolutely are. My local shop has tons of prs custom stuff come in. I just don’t see myself play a 10k plus on a guitar. I like to beat the crap ot of my stuff
Hi Anthony, thank you for the honest and exhaustive video. I have a question regarding Private stock guitars, I hope you can help me: I am after a specific PRS tone, the Mark Tremonti tone recorded in the intro of Broken Wings (an alter bridge song). It's been more than a decade that I'm chasing that tone and through the years I have bought several PRS including a Custom 22 with a Tremonti neck PU, a '17 PRS Tremonti, and a '03 PRS Tremonti, both played through a Fender Twin reverb '65 (same as Mark Tremonti). The tone unfortunately is different. I think there is something that I miss: maybe the tone woods he has in his guitars are more valuable than those found in his commercial signature models? The point is: would be acceptable for PRS Private stock dept. the request to reproduce a guitar that has THAT specific tone? I'm more towards the tone than the look..If I have to choose between a beautiful looking wood and a wood that gives me the tone I'm looking for despite of its appearence I'm for the the second option. I hope you can suggest me something with your experience. Thanks in advance. Ale
Just paid $14000 (they were asking $15999) for an amazing quilt top 594 with a Piezo ... it makes my 10 top "special" feel so ordinary, and that's saying a lot as that's a $5600 guitar itself.
@@slyfoxx2973 I didn't claim that infected wood is bad for guitars. I didn't even imply it. I just said that infected wood (or wood from an tree with a disease, like fungus infection), gives patterns in the wood that healthy trees of the same species would not have. This has nothing to do with tone. It's about looks as PRS has stated themselves that that is the reason why they buy it. Infected wood isn't more expensive at all. It doesn't tell you anything about tone. Fender Custom shop for example do resonance tests on woodblocks, to try to predict what combination of neck and body would sound like. Fender custom shop also does guitars for looks. Private stock at PRS has always been about looks. That's how they determine which wood block to reserve for the private stock department: it's based on looks, not on tone. Let me give you another example of how PRS makes claims, based on ... well nothing actually. They claim that the PRS Silver Sky that you order has a chance of 99% to sound exactly as John Mayer's PRS Silver Sky guitars in his possesion. That is a blatant lie. The body for example is made of at least 3 pieces of wood glued together. This is fact. It is impossible to have a consistency of 99% when working with organic material. It's all PR. Nothing more. I'm lucky to help at a guitar shop. Not 1 guitar of the same series sounds the same. I've played great sounding PRS guitars, and really dull sounding PRS guitars of the same series. The same applies to every guitar company. Over the years, I have learned that how a guitar looks is completely different from how it sounds. The guitars I own, were purely based on sound, sustain and feel. I own a pink strat that is amazing, but most people wouldn't even have picked up the guitar because it's pink. When I see someone test a certain guitar at the shop, and he or she says it sounds great, but I want it in another colour and then order the other color without ever having played that guitar, my urge is to say 'don't do that if you like the guitar you were playing in the first place', but ofcourse I don't as the customer is boss. Then there is another factor: it's all subjective. Some people like the sound of a certain guitar, while I could have the opposite opinion. But I would never buy a guitar unseen and unplayed.
I just dropped $1500 on a 2000 McCarty Amber burst with a 10 top and I don't think sound wise it gets too much better. Definitely not $7000 extra better. My buddy has a private stock and a custom 24 and neither sounds much better than mine. I could upgrade the pots and pickups and be right there with both. Most of that extra $$$ is paying for asthetics and not so much the sound. It's more about getting a guitar built to your specs.
I can only agree with you if you are speaking STRICTLY about completely solid body Electric guitar. When it comes to Acoustics, Hollow bodies, and even Semi-Hollow bodies the woods as well as many many other things play a HUGE roll in the sound of the guitar.
I think it’s worth it for the same reasons, I’ve got me a Neal schon 14 semi hollow body on the way a lot of money but the excitement , when I had my first prs and strummed a chord on it Wow the sound and feel was something different and new compared to other brands I own
IMO, if it's cut and routed using CNC machines like any other guitar then no. And it's not like the highest grade figuring has any effect on tone. They look really pretty and are certainly pieces of art.
If had the money I would get a private stock, I got a semi-hollow single cut and custom 24 and s2 standard and it still don't add up to that. But I love the ones I got.
Super sentimental to me, you say? Well, if I found the means to buy a private stock, especially designed to my spec but even a used one that I loved, I would feel it’s worth it. But I only question the upcharge of the tops. They order say figured maple, but they go through and grade it, so they didn’t pay more, or order the nicest tops separately. ButI get it. And yes they do order the rarest species, too. I guess I often see non 10 tops I like better than the perfect ones so I then sometimes question the price of 10’s. But hey I think if it matters or you cherish it, it’s worth it. Congratulations on your dream guitar man!
Just bought myself a custom made gtr by a smaller luthier, cost me 3200€ and it's way worth the money! Like mentioned in this video, the happinness and inspiration cannot be pricw tagged, together with the better quality of everything in it, plus your own specs. In my case, the whole gtr is made to my own specs; the headatock I designed by myself. I've owned big brand custom shop, loved them to pieces but decided to go for my own gtr. I've played a PRS private stock, and they just kill. No price tag shows you everything you'll be getting from it. :)
Anthony Best, you must have then like several killer gtrs, awesome! :) My biggest thing was, I wanted 0'' radius on an Ebony fretboard, so I had that done (plus other stuff..). :) In my opinion flat fretboard is way more fun/easy to play, don't really know why they started with round fretboards, maybe they wanted to differ from the classical Spanish-type gtrs? :)
Private Stocks aren’t guitars you buy and then resell after 20 years. These are pieces of art that are passed down from generation to generation. 100% worth it
What you get is the woods that are NOT available in core but also the best looking. according to 'someone'. The woods are all dried the same so if your Private Stock is built using 'core' spec woods (Mahogany back/neck, maple cap, rosewood fingerboard) you get an aesthetically better but with an eagle on the headstock. If you want something more unique, with unique woods, then you either have to go wood library or private stock. I would love a solid rosewood neck on any one of my 4 PRS core guitars. Would I trade 2 or 3 core to get a Private Stock? Absolutely NOT. That's not to say I wouldn't love a PRS PS - especially as a gift from a loved one but to buy one myself, Unless I won the lottery or happened to see a used at a bargain price, then I will be more than happy with just the core line PRS Guitars - I actually tend to prefer non-10tops too as the irregularity adds more character and nuance aesthetically...
I am grinding on this decision pretty hard. Of course if I buy a PS, it wont be a new one. That stated, I already have 3 core PRS models that total the price of a used Private stock about 7k. They each are different animals SCT, 513, and SInglecut. One is an artist pack, and another is a 10 top that would definitely be considered private stock level visually. About to go play several in a particular store that has about 10 of them. I am going to take two of mine for reference material. I just have to know the difference under hand or if it really is all aesthetics.
I own a lot of prs’s; all lines. I have one SE that sounded amazing stock so I found some 58/15LT pickups and put them in and made a $600 used guitar sound like a $4500 core. I have the means, but I’d never buy a private stock. Choice years if American fenders, yes. And Gibson can suck it. Overpriced garbage that they refuse to improve design because of a classic look. I’d love an SG with a prs neck
Outside of affordability the question would be what does the PS give you that a core guitar doesn’t and is that something you “need” to play better or sound like x,y or z, or is it just something you want.
Anytime you are doing a custom order like this it’s simply getting exactly what you want built by the best of the best. Some woods and colors are not available in the core line. But it’s never something you “need” it’s something you want.
If I had one, it would be a case dweller. I'd be too paranoid to get it out and really play it. The fear of bumping it, dropping it, spilling something on it would be too stressful to get any kind of enjoyment out of it.
@RKDriver I agree kind off. I have a PRS 509 it isn't even PS but I don't want to run the risk of damaging it. Surprisingly I spend more time playing my Torero and SE model. I have a CE 24 with a satin finish that gets some time as well. PRS guitars are so beautiful I just want to stare at them. LOL
You have a good wife and perfect guitar 😎as an owner of private stock..it's worth it..but my friends jealous and hate me..you can't have it all 🙂cheers from Greece bro
Hey Anthony.. I own a PRS P24 10 top, black gold sunburst wrap, guitar...and I LOVE IT!!...Was not 10 grand!!..Still was expensive...$4500.00...Way better guitar than a Strat or Les Paul..my opinion..
Its Aqua Violet FOR SURE. Its just faded significantly, and the lighting is off a bit in the video. The nitro on the guitar actually cracked and had to be sent back for a refinish. Its much closer to the original color now.
Price does not equate value. Value/worth is determined by the consumer. Price/Monetary value is a limitation, in that "I have X amount of dollars so I can afford to spend X amount of dollars".
Private stock guitars from PRS seem to also be an investment in a way also. Given the rarity of the instrument it will most likely go up in value. I've always looked at an instrument at this level as a family heirloom as well. I dont own one yet, but when I do it will most definitely be handed down to my son who also plays. Thanks for sharing such a beautiful instrument.
Also if you want a core, some smaller retailers will work on the price with you, so you could potentially get a couple hundred off or something similar. Save your pennies!
PRS Private Stock are worth it !! But they are an investment and they are better made than Famous Vintage guitars, and with age they will sound better. Not everyone, but everyone is different, I play many PRS Guitars, And each Year PRS improves their guitars . But for now yes they are worth it
The price doesn't matter. Happiness doesn't have a price tag. That being said, I'd rather pay 12-15k for a custom made guitar knowing that the workers get compensated fairly.
$8000ok but then the dealer gets $2000 for the phone call order on top,making it $10000 thats the hardest pill to swallow!.. Appart from the non appreciation factor, but as a guitar brand the quality of the build is the best in the world.
A debate with no single correct answer. if people are willing to spend 10K on a guitar then it is worth it to them. To others, it may seem a ghastly extravagance. People have always liked to buy the best things, be it watches, cars, clothes or whatever and I doubt that will change. To say that it doesn't sound any better than a 1000.00 guitar is a mute point to that lucky owner.
Guitars do go out of tune… all of them… even the expensive ones… I was new to making videos and I didn’t check it before I started… shit happens. Learned a lot since then. And this guitar is still incredible.
Yes... all of it (that you say is true). Only one thing bugs me big time... there is about at least 2k on top of the price (at least for Europe), which you pay for taxes and there is maybe about 2 k extra on the guitar for the brand. That is why I would go and find a reputed local luthier and give him about half of that budget to get an instrument, which will at least rival that one heavily... Anyway, cool video man - I am subbed and wish you a lot of happy hours playing that marvellous purple beast! ;)
It’s simple. A couch is a place for your ass to go. IKEA couches are a great place for your ass and cost $500.00. custom made couches are just as good a place for your ass and they can cost $15k. So they both do the exact same thing and some could argue are the same in comfort level. So do you want factory or custom?
I miss that amp all the time. I regret selling that when i got my Revv 100p. I tried to contact the buyer multiple times, but no contact. I may need to buy another one at some point.
it's not too much to spend. You spend your life dedicated to playing guitar , the hundreds (thousands) of hours put into it. Why not? Folks spend alot more on "weekend cars"
I own a few private stocks and for myself, they are absolutely worth it. Like many others, I figured they couldn’t be much better than the core models as I owned a couple cores at the time which blew me away. But once I owned my first PS, it just really blew me away like none other. The main reason for them being worth it, is the inspiration and happiness they bring me. No other guitars on the planet bring the smiles and joy of playing like the PS do. They just have something to them and I love them more everyday.
@G. V. Q he's talking about the price
@@destianpatrianagara1119 You want the people at PRS to be paid well? Seems like you don't.
Long answer short:
It is absolutely worth it, as long as your wife pays for it.
I was always someone who didn't understand why people pay even 3 or 4 thousand on a guitar. I owned and loved and gigged lots of 500-1K dollar guitars, never could understand how anything could be that much better. But when I decided to treat myself to my McCarty, I knew almost instantly what the fuss was about.
I still don't see myself sending 10k on a guitar, but especially something intensely personal like a wedding gift from your wife, I can understand how it's worth every penny at that point.
I bought a McCarty Ten Top and it is definitely worth the money I paid for it, somewhere around 4K I believe. There's just something about it that separates it from the rest of the pack. That's a helluva gift you have there, congrats!
$10,000 guitar for a wedding g present! Does your wife have a sister?
No, she has a brother... he's single too!
@@itsanthonybest lol
Absolutely beautiful guitar! My thoughts... I own three PRS guitars...core Custom 24, CE 24, and an SE 245. I also own a gibson Les Paul, fender American strat, etc. In terms of sound my se 245 shockingly sounds as good in every way as my Core 24...minus the coil tapping that 24 has. And my CE sounds arguably better than both depending on music style. Companies are very good at convincing people that you have to spend $5k - $10k to get better sound and quality... which is far from true. They tell you the woods in the really expensive ones make them sounds better... but that's not true for every guitar. My SE 245 is made cheaply in Korea and feels and sounds as great as any expensive guitar I have every played... just as clear, sustain just as good, etc. But the top obviously is inferior astetically. The tuners are better on more expensive guitars but can be changed out for peanuts. The pickups are Asian made but sounds just as good surprisingly. Gibson studios also sounds just as great as the more expensive Gibson's. You may need to be pickier in the ones you select because they don't go through the same hand picking process that the really expensive ones do... but if you know about guitars you can find a green for cheap. So, why do I own several expensive guitars... well because I collect guitars... I think they are works of art...I can afford them...and think I'm cooler in my own mind with them lol. Now they're are some terrible low end guitars. The SE Custom 24 plays and sounds like a cheap toy to me... but the SE 245 custom from Korea...and tremonti, Chris Robertson SE 245 sound epic... which is why pro musicians tour with them. Again, I do love expensive beautiful guitars too... and it's great to have something like this as a gift that you can remember forever and pass down to kids... but after playing pro for 20 years and owning a significant number of expensive and cheap guitars at the end of the day have come to the conclusion that you aren't getting your money's worth it if the high end ones... just a beautiful piece of art and boost to your ego... and envy from other guitar players lol. Not to be critical... but your guitar playing is decent... but I can tell it's very average. Once you get to be more pro level you will be able to understand tone a bit more and know great tone doesn't always come with a high price tag. Look at the guitar player from Queen for instance. He made his own guitar from crappy piece of wood in his chimney and it sounds epic. Go watch Chris Robertson play his signature SE...or Bernie Marsden... and you will know what I'm talking about...
It’s a work of art. It’s like buying a low end Tesla ( if there is such a thing ) compared to a high end. They both will get you where your going in style, but the feeling of something made so well and in the private stock one of a kind, can’t be evaluated apples to apples. It’s a lot more personal. I will get one before I die. And if my wife gets her way, probably the day before…….
I just bought my first PRS recently. Semi Hollow Special 10 top. It is the most expensive guitar I own, and I traded two guitars to get it. Just like you, I can’t put it down. When I’m not playing it, I’m staring at it. I can’t imagine what a Private Sock would be like. Down the road, I will absolutely get a PS. You can’t put a price on something that is an extension of yourself, and makes you happy. Great video. Your guitar is gorgeous.
When I watch videos like this, Im always caught in between "you only live once" and "you cant afford it" lol
If you can buy a car then you can buy a prs guitar
The other factor I'd hit is "am I good enough to deserve it"
@@breadyegg Dont do that to yourself. Whatever gear that makes you happy and that you can afford, buy it! Gear shouldn’t be measured to skill, only how happy and inspired it makes you.
Dude, that is an absolutely STUNNING guitar. I’m not a “purple man” per se but good god....I would play that any day. The various northern lights private stock models are my personal holy grails. I’ll probably add one to the ole collection someday.
The funny thing about guitarists is that we’re still kind of street level, “gutter” musicians. Not that it’s a bad thing...it’s just part of the romance. A violinist, concert piano or oboe player doesn’t bat an eye at a $10,000 instrument. On the other hand, you will see guitarists who get legitimately angry at the prospect of paying ten grand for an instrument...so the “culture” just isn’t there yet. Maybe someday? Who knows...
If you like it then it’s worth it. Prs makes some of the nicest guitars out there imo.
Agreed.
Always been a dream of mine to own a PRS since I was a child and saving now to somehow buy a CU24 SE. Hopefully, after I graduate from college someday I can own a Core or a Private Stock or a Wood Library. They're works of art no question
I have had guitars from a number of the boutique small builders that I was told were all on the same level as PS (McNaught, Suhr, Thorn, McInturff, Anderson...a TON of them) so I was completely happy with what I had.....then I received my first PS and was COMPLETELY AWESTRUCK....the guitar was by leaps and bounds nicer than any other guitar I had ever owned up to that point. Like anything else, there are some that just seem better than others, as I have now had a number of different PS's in my hands and some are absolutely MAGICAL while others I would question the final price tag for sure. If you get one of the spectacular ones, you will absolutely realize that its not hype when people talk about PS guitars. Mine has a number of what PRS calls upgrades...with gold surrounds on the inlays, solid rosewood neck, etc...and the craftsmanship and quality is simply breathtaking....to ME it is worth every penny I paid and then some....no one could ever look at or play that guitar and not realize that its "special"....it may not be thier bag, but no way has anyone ever said it wasnt a spectacular guitar
Anthony: I bought a Santana lll Private Stock 2014. Truly a work of art. Its beautiful and an inspiration to play. New...$9,300 Thanks for the vid. ✌♥️ jr
Very nice! Glad to hear you liked the video
II have 4 PRS guitars proudly on display in my studio. Yes they are worth it. And that is an awesome one you have!
Lovely guitar Anthony. I've owned a couple of Private Stocks as well as a number of core American PRS guitars. Private Stock's are an extravagance in my opinion. Undoubtedly the attention to detail and choice of woods is mind-blowing from an aesthetic viewpoint, but in terms of sound and playability I don't feel or hear any difference when compared to core American guitars. I know of a couple of people who have bought new Private Stocks as an 'investment', which is shear madness as they plummet in value post-sale. All of that said, Private Stocks are beautiful instruments but I would always pick one up second-hand as there's very little difference price-wise between a used PS and a new core PRS.
Me too... you are so right on... shows how good the marketing folks in these companies are at convincing people. I have high end core 24, CE 24, and SE 245... Gibson Les Paul, etc...and the cheap SE sounds just as good or better than my core...minus the coil tapping on the 24. All of this higher end wood talk is just BS... other than to make top look prettier...
bro lmk Where you're finding used private stocks for the same price as a core. I have not seen that at all
Lol...investment guitars are NOT PRS
Hey, just holding a custom shop in your hands makes you feel better about it.... there’s an intrinsic heightened sense of awareness that easily makes these worth the price. You literally play better because of the euphoria of the instrument. Great vid! Thanks!
That instrument is a work of art, a beautiful guitar and a dream come true (for you). So it is not expensive.
I have a PRS SE Santana, which to me already seems like a work of art, a dream come true (for me), and a beautiful guitar.
Value and price are two different things, which we often confuse.
I’m sure it plays wonderfully and it looks like a million bucks but for the price I could get a couple or 3 hyper high end custom shops that have become reputable as of the past 10 years. Congrats, though! And yes, we are lucky to be surrounded by wonderful gear these days.
Thank you for the video! But hey, the pickup selector clicks on $10k guitar! 11:40
That top is out of this world. Combined with the rosewood neck, it's pretty much a holy heirloom grail.
Edit: Wanted to add that I am super happy that you play it and let it wear.
Great video! I’ve been looking into getting a PRS wood library, and I think you may have convinced me! I’ve only had cheap shit up until last year, and I now know that custom built/high end instruments are superior.
Judging by other gear sitting back there you can already afford some nice stuff. I would love to have a Private Stock guitar, but I will probably never be able to justify spending more than $1500 on a guitar or any other piece of gear.
The chances are playing guitar is his thing. Most people have several small hobbies rather than the 1 thing they live and breathe. I applaud anyone who’s willing to invest in a hobby that deeply, he knows what makes him happy and what he wants from life - that’s more than most of us can achieve.
You don't need to.
An ibanez at this price smokes any PRS.
I wouldn’t but a private stock because I can’t afford it, don’t feel like I deserve it as a player and I’d be too scared of damaging it. I can really appreciate the craftsmanship and exclusivity though. It is like owning a corvette in the guitar world. If you put in the work in life to be able to afford it, there’s nothing wrong with treating yourself. Congrats and the purple is gorgeous!
I have a few and think it’s worth it but I also know that it will stand the test of time. My nephews one day will have them and enjoy them as much as me.
You have a beautiful private stock guitar however it is something that will never be affordable to me. I recently got my first PRS. It’s only a Korean made SE Custom but it is a 1 of 25 blue quilted Maple guitars the store custom ordered and I absolutely love it.
Moore guitars?
I would love to know how difference that quality of wood makes in the sound. Although I can’t afford one, I would absolutely buy one. It would be a 1 and only that would be mine.
I have two private stocks .. $15999 and $17125 retail both and two Core. Are the private stock way better? No… are they beautiful works of art that inspire me to play? Absolutely.
I love the comparison you made against your friend who’s looking at a new Tuba as I don’t see this open minded yet relevant comparison often. Cost is relative, obviously. But guitar as a hobby/instrument is actually very accessible to anyone, regardless of ability or money. Playing guitar can get expensive with all of the additional kit you might need - Amps, Pedals, Straps, Strings etc, but compared to to a Grand Piano or a Violin it’s a fraction of the cost - even for a one off custom PRS that’s made by some of the best luthiers on the planet. Their time costs money.
Yes a Private Stock guitar is expensive, if you think it’s too much then don’t buy one - it’s obviously not intended for you as a customer. People seem to think there’s a relationship between playing ability and value of an instrument when there isn’t, it’s bullshit. Buying a “better” guitar doesn’t make the player better, people know that - they buy something that inspires and encourages them to play. If having this guitar makes this man happier then good for him, it’s rare to find people that get happiness from the little things. Stop sucking the life out of everyone else just because you’re miserable and don’t have shit figured out either.....
I think the majority of people have forgotten the value of a hand crafted item that’s tailored exclusively to your needs alone. Everything is mass produced nowadays and quality control has shot up in the last decade or so. Top tier phones and laptops were made of plastic when I was younger, Aluminium wasn’t even an option. Now? Anything less than Aluminium is now considered cheap and unacceptable.
I am always afraid to leave my guitar out on a hanger or leave it out on display and so I wanted to know if you have any experience with your purple fading from being in the light or getting hit by sunshine or if you have any issues with tuning stability or neck warpage anything like that from being exposed I play my stuff every day but I keep it in a case because I’m afraid of that stuff. Would you please let me know your experiences?
Nice PRS discussion vid....thanks for posting! Nice guitar! PRS are pricey, but soooooo nice.
I've seen many PRS Privite Stocks
Come out of Brian's Guitars.
Truely Beautiful.
No Doubt.
If you love any guitar .
It's worth it.
I've seen some Wood Library as well.
Beautiful as well.
It's Close.
That's the Route I went last week.
McTREM.
But I've had both .
PRS is making there mark.
Love Classics as well.
But PRS stands right there with them.
Beautiful guitar.! P.s does your wife have a spare sister available...? Some of us blokes have to hide our purchases...grrrrr..😁😁😁😁👍🤘🤘
haha, as a youtuber, I have remade entire videos many times, lol, I get it, you're awesome
HOLY SHIT!!!! $10,000!!!! I couldn't do it,I understand specifically wanting your personal guitar.....but when it comes down to the nutz & boltz of a guitar,its wood and some electronics and that's it,bottom line. I love guitar, I've been playing since 1990 but there NO FU#ΩING way I would spend that much on a piece of wood. Regardless of my opinion its still a beautiful instrument and congrats on your P.S. PRS.
3-5k is really the limit I’m willing to spend on a guitar. That’s not to say private stock isn’t worth it because they absolutely are. My local shop has tons of prs custom stuff come in. I just don’t see myself play a 10k plus on a guitar. I like to beat the crap ot of my stuff
Hi Anthony, It's beautiful, but the Question ? is, " is it an instrument for creativity or is it a piece of visual art". Best regards . John.
Hi Anthony, thank you for the honest and exhaustive video. I have a question regarding Private stock guitars, I hope you can help me: I am after a specific PRS tone, the Mark Tremonti tone recorded in the intro of Broken Wings (an alter bridge song). It's been more than a decade that I'm chasing that tone and through the years I have bought several PRS including a Custom 22 with a Tremonti neck PU, a '17 PRS Tremonti, and a '03 PRS Tremonti, both played through a Fender Twin reverb '65 (same as Mark Tremonti). The tone unfortunately is different. I think there is something that I miss: maybe the tone woods he has in his guitars are more valuable than those found in his commercial signature models? The point is: would be acceptable for PRS Private stock dept. the request to reproduce a guitar that has THAT specific tone? I'm more towards the tone than the look..If I have to choose between a beautiful looking wood and a wood that gives me the tone I'm looking for despite of its appearence I'm for the the second option. I hope you can suggest me something with your experience. Thanks in advance. Ale
Just paid $14000 (they were asking $15999) for an amazing quilt top 594 with a Piezo ... it makes my 10 top "special" feel so ordinary, and that's saying a lot as that's a $5600 guitar itself.
PRS private stock is as I understand it, all about looks. Not about tone wood. They use infected wood as that has a certain figure patern.
Actually it's about both looks and tone wood. "Infected" wood is used throughout the industry on guitars costing a 1/10 of a private stock PRS.
@@slyfoxx2973 I didn't claim that infected wood is bad for guitars. I didn't even imply it. I just said that infected wood (or wood from an tree with a disease, like fungus infection), gives patterns in the wood that healthy trees of the same species would not have. This has nothing to do with tone. It's about looks as PRS has stated themselves that that is the reason why they buy it. Infected wood isn't more expensive at all.
It doesn't tell you anything about tone.
Fender Custom shop for example do resonance tests on woodblocks, to try to predict what combination of neck and body would sound like. Fender custom shop also does guitars for looks.
Private stock at PRS has always been about looks. That's how they determine which wood block to reserve for the private stock department: it's based on looks, not on tone.
Let me give you another example of how PRS makes claims, based on ... well nothing actually.
They claim that the PRS Silver Sky that you order has a chance of 99% to sound exactly as John Mayer's PRS Silver Sky guitars in his possesion. That is a blatant lie. The body for example is made of at least 3 pieces of wood glued together. This is fact. It is impossible to have a consistency of 99% when working with organic material. It's all PR. Nothing more.
I'm lucky to help at a guitar shop. Not 1 guitar of the same series sounds the same. I've played great sounding PRS guitars, and really dull sounding PRS guitars of the same series. The same applies to every guitar company. Over the years, I have learned that how a guitar looks is completely different from how it sounds. The guitars I own, were purely based on sound, sustain and feel. I own a pink strat that is amazing, but most people wouldn't even have picked up the guitar because it's pink.
When I see someone test a certain guitar at the shop, and he or she says it sounds great, but I want it in another colour and then order the other color without ever having played that guitar, my urge is to say 'don't do that if you like the guitar you were playing in the first place', but ofcourse I don't as the customer is boss.
Then there is another factor: it's all subjective. Some people like the sound of a certain guitar, while I could have the opposite opinion. But I would never buy a guitar unseen and unplayed.
Sweet guitar!!!
I just dropped $1500 on a 2000 McCarty Amber burst with a 10 top and I don't think sound wise it gets too much better. Definitely not $7000 extra better. My buddy has a private stock and a custom 24 and neither sounds much better than mine. I could upgrade the pots and pickups and be right there with both. Most of that extra $$$ is paying for asthetics and not so much the sound. It's more about getting a guitar built to your specs.
I can only agree with you if you are speaking STRICTLY about completely solid body Electric guitar. When it comes to Acoustics, Hollow bodies, and even Semi-Hollow bodies the woods as well as many many other things play a HUGE roll in the sound of the guitar.
I would think that the pots and pickups on a McCarty are as high quality as a private stock.
Looking at one as a long-term investment for my son or grandchildren. It would never even be taken out if the case.
I think it’s worth it for the same reasons, I’ve got me a Neal schon 14 semi hollow body on the way a lot of money but the excitement , when I had my first prs and strummed a chord on it Wow the sound and feel was something different and new compared to other brands I own
IMO, if it's cut and routed using CNC machines like any other guitar then no. And it's not like the highest grade figuring has any effect on tone. They look really pretty and are certainly pieces of art.
If had the money I would get a private stock, I got a semi-hollow single cut and custom 24 and s2 standard and it still don't add up to that. But I love the ones I got.
beautiful guitar
Very nice! I'm happy with my new wood library purchase! :D Yup, tuba or car.... similar price!
Super sentimental to me, you say? Well, if I found the means to buy a private stock, especially designed to my spec but even a used one that I loved, I would feel it’s worth it. But I only question the upcharge of the tops. They order say figured maple, but they go through and grade it, so they didn’t pay more, or order the nicest tops separately. ButI get it. And yes they do order the rarest species, too. I guess I often see non 10 tops I like better than the perfect ones so I then sometimes question the price of 10’s. But hey I think if it matters or you cherish it, it’s worth it. Congratulations on your dream guitar man!
wow that guitar just sustains!
If you love it and it is an extension of you , it's worth every penny .
Just bought myself a custom made gtr by a smaller luthier, cost me 3200€ and it's way worth the money! Like mentioned in this video, the happinness and inspiration cannot be pricw tagged, together with the better quality of everything in it, plus your own specs. In my case, the whole gtr is made to my own specs; the headatock I designed by myself. I've owned big brand custom shop, loved them to pieces but decided to go for my own gtr. I've played a PRS private stock, and they just kill. No price tag shows you everything you'll be getting from it. :)
Anthony Best, you must have then like several killer gtrs, awesome! :) My biggest thing was, I wanted 0'' radius on an Ebony fretboard, so I had that done (plus other stuff..). :) In my opinion flat fretboard is way more fun/easy to play, don't really know why they started with round fretboards, maybe they wanted to differ from the classical Spanish-type gtrs? :)
Most expensive new guitar I’ve bought was a Collings I35 and it was worth every øre!!
I’m a sucker for a solid rosewood neck. But despite that I’ll still never
Private Stocks aren’t guitars you buy and then resell after 20 years. These are pieces of art that are passed down from generation to generation.
100% worth it
Dude you'd get tons of views if you publish the fly down version.
Especially if you 0:40 it.
Cheers 👍🏻
What you get is the woods that are NOT available in core but also the best looking. according to 'someone'. The woods are all dried the same so if your Private Stock is built using 'core' spec woods (Mahogany back/neck, maple cap, rosewood fingerboard) you get an aesthetically better but with an eagle on the headstock.
If you want something more unique, with unique woods, then you either have to go wood library or private stock. I would love a solid rosewood neck on any one of my 4 PRS core guitars.
Would I trade 2 or 3 core to get a Private Stock? Absolutely NOT. That's not to say I wouldn't love a PRS PS - especially as a gift from a loved one but to buy one myself, Unless I won the lottery or happened to see a used at a bargain price, then I will be more than happy with just the core line PRS Guitars - I actually tend to prefer non-10tops too as the irregularity adds more character and nuance aesthetically...
I am grinding on this decision pretty hard. Of course if I buy a PS, it wont be a new one. That stated, I already have 3 core PRS models that total the price of a used Private stock about 7k. They each are different animals SCT, 513, and SInglecut. One is an artist pack, and another is a 10 top that would definitely be considered private stock level visually. About to go play several in a particular store that has about 10 of them. I am going to take two of mine for reference material. I just have to know the difference under hand or if it really is all aesthetics.
Think I’m gonna get a dragon
He hear him die a little at 8:30
I own a lot of prs’s; all lines. I have one SE that sounded amazing stock so I found some 58/15LT pickups and put them in and made a $600 used guitar sound like a $4500 core. I have the means, but I’d never buy a private stock. Choice years if American fenders, yes. And Gibson can suck it. Overpriced garbage that they refuse to improve design because of a classic look. I’d love an SG with a prs neck
Depends on how much extra money you have?
And what is the resale value of a private stock guitar?
Willing to bet private stocks retain there value. It's not an ever day guitar.
Outside of affordability the question would be what does the PS give you that a core guitar doesn’t and is that something you “need” to play better or sound like x,y or z, or is it just something you want.
Anytime you are doing a custom order like this it’s simply getting exactly what you want built by the best of the best. Some woods and colors are not available in the core line. But it’s never something you “need” it’s something you want.
@@itsanthonybest exactly the point, "is it worth it" really depends on how badly you want what you want.
@@GMec78 #nailedit
You can all that stuff from Kiesel for like 2k im getting mine soon
If I had one, it would be a case dweller. I'd be too paranoid to get it out and really play it. The fear of bumping it, dropping it, spilling something on it would be too stressful to get any kind of enjoyment out of it.
@RKDriver I agree kind off. I have a PRS 509 it isn't even PS but I don't want to run the risk of damaging it. Surprisingly I spend more time playing my Torero and SE model. I have a CE 24 with a satin finish that gets some time as well. PRS guitars are so beautiful I just want to stare at them. LOL
You have a good wife and perfect guitar 😎as an owner of private stock..it's worth it..but my friends jealous and hate me..you can't have it all 🙂cheers from Greece bro
If you can afford it and you like it. what a great gift on your wedding day. And from your wife. 👍
Hey Anthony.. I own a PRS P24 10 top, black gold sunburst wrap, guitar...and I LOVE IT!!...Was not 10 grand!!..Still was expensive...$4500.00...Way better guitar than a Strat or Les Paul..my opinion..
But not better than ibanez
homie you should consider some acoustic treatment
Video was shot 2 years ago... my studio has been completely redone since thing. Please check out some newer live stream videos, i've come a long way.
What did they call that color? Are you SURE that's aqua violet? :) Must be the lighting, most of the video its pink!
Its Aqua Violet FOR SURE. Its just faded significantly, and the lighting is off a bit in the video. The nitro on the guitar actually cracked and had to be sent back for a refinish. Its much closer to the original color now.
holds its value its an investment you can play
Price does not equate value. Value/worth is determined by the consumer. Price/Monetary value is a limitation, in that "I have X amount of dollars so I can afford to spend X amount of dollars".
Private stock guitars from PRS seem to also be an investment in a way also. Given the rarity of the instrument it will most likely go up in value. I've always looked at an instrument at this level as a family heirloom as well. I dont own one yet, but when I do it will most definitely be handed down to my son who also plays. Thanks for sharing such a beautiful instrument.
Also if you want a core, some smaller retailers will work on the price with you, so you could potentially get a couple hundred off or something similar. Save your pennies!
Is that violet burst color or ?
Aqua Violet is the color!
A $500 player with a $10,000 guitar. Sounds about right.
You jealous? You sound jealous… yep that’s what I thought.
PRS Private Stock are worth it !!
But they are an investment and they are better made than Famous Vintage guitars, and with age they will sound better. Not everyone, but everyone is different, I play many PRS Guitars,
And each Year PRS improves their guitars .
But for now yes they are worth it
Bro a light fixture😩 I would of died right there
Are you a „blues-lawyer“?
Renato Digitalo he’s not playing the blues so why would you even ask that?
=))) best introduction EVER !
The price doesn't matter. Happiness doesn't have a price tag. That being said, I'd rather pay 12-15k for a custom made guitar knowing that the workers get compensated fairly.
$8000ok but then the dealer gets $2000 for the phone call order on top,making it $10000 thats the hardest pill to swallow!.. Appart from the non appreciation factor, but as a guitar brand the quality of the build is the best in the world.
I'd smack the shit out of my old lady if she spent that kind of money on me.
There are two ways of acquiring a private stock guitar..
1 rob a bank, 2 sell your organs. They're my two choices.
Im getting one next year and I only have a casual job. Pays me $3000 aud a month though. The build time is 8 months so by that time im already paid
@@jgab7042 I hope it brings you success and many years or joy. All the best take care.
Oh my GOD where did u find your wife?!
A debate with no single correct answer. if people are willing to spend 10K on a guitar then it is worth it to them. To others, it may seem a ghastly extravagance. People have always liked to buy the best things, be it watches, cars, clothes or whatever and I doubt that will change. To say that it doesn't sound any better than a 1000.00 guitar is a mute point to that lucky owner.
..it's nice but man it sounded out of tune slightly. ..I'm sure it's gorgeous and maybe you hadn't tuned in a while..really beautiful guitar
Guitars do go out of tune… all of them… even the expensive ones…
I was new to making videos and I didn’t check it before I started… shit happens. Learned a lot since then. And this guitar is still incredible.
Yes... all of it (that you say is true). Only one thing bugs me big time... there is about at least 2k on top of the price (at least for Europe), which you pay for taxes and there is maybe about 2 k extra on the guitar for the brand. That is why I would go and find a reputed local luthier and give him about half of that budget to get an instrument, which will at least rival that one heavily... Anyway, cool video man - I am subbed and wish you a lot of happy hours playing that marvellous purple beast! ;)
As someone who’s musical journey started out as a bassoonist, ten thousand sounds cheap for a high end instrument.
If I could afford one I would buy one .. and I can’t even play guitar...
It’s simple. A couch is a place for your ass to go. IKEA couches are a great place for your ass and cost $500.00. custom made couches are just as good a place for your ass and they can cost $15k. So they both do the exact same thing and some could argue are the same in comfort level. So do you want factory or custom?
I dont came here for the prs, i came for that rad orange revv amplifier
I miss that amp all the time. I regret selling that when i got my Revv 100p. I tried to contact the buyer multiple times, but no contact.
I may need to buy another one at some point.
Yes.
it's not too much to spend. You spend your life dedicated to playing guitar , the hundreds (thousands) of hours put into it. Why not? Folks spend alot more on "weekend cars"
My wood library is at least 5x better than my SE
I mean ... i could agree with you there. My SE Mahoney is very good... but my WLs are significantly better...
If only it was ESP Custom shop 😩
€10000 guitar
Only plays chords
@@itsanthonybest never said u weren't
If it isn’t worth it, I don’t know a guitar that is.
that's why you can't afford to pay for heat and have to wear a toque in the house! LoL
If you are a guitar player and musician the answer in NO.
If you like collection then its another question.
If you think something is too expensive, you never really wanted it.
lucky men..