There's a ton of T-style guitars available in the sub $2k range and even the sub $1k range has a ton of options. That $3k mark is a leap where you really need to like the features/tones. I'm sure it's well built, but it's above the "maybe an impulse buy" range by a ton. If it gets to their SE lineup, they'll likely get better response.
"That $3k mark is a leap where you really need to like the features/tone." Don't forget the visual aspect also, everything from body shape to fretboard to lack of binding, etc. Many higher end Teles have binding, use rosewood or ebony, and have a look that people find pleasing. Things like binding don't effect the sound, but it costs more to make.
@@ChrisEck13 Locking tuners, and even single piece bodies as opposed to a 3 piece body. Like you said, at that price range, there are some appointments you really expect to see, but I fear that PRS is beginning to think that the name on the headstock warrants whatever price tag they choose to put on it; which is dangerous/ GIbson/ Fender territory.
@@Psichlo1wtf are you on about. PRS has always been expensive. It's expensive making things in America. Especially if you want everything made in America. Other brands are just assembling parts they import in America which is how PRS can make s2s that are like half to a third the price. You need to learn about economics brother 😂😂😂
@@StupidGuitarIt's not the customer's issue though. If other brands are doing swamp ash bodies in one piece and are charging less, PRS should be able to do the same. And if they can't do one piece bodies because of some kind of supply issues like big ash trees being hard to find, they should have more custom appointments that make the price tag make sense like binding, more finish options, etc so people who like these can't find one that matches exactly what they want
I've said it before, I will say it again. I can't wrap my head around some of the decisions that PRS is making at the moment. I get that this is supposed to be modeled, essentially, after Pauls 53 tele, but not putting locking tuners on what amounts to a 3k dollar guitar just doesn't make sense. I get the "vintage" vibe, but locking tuners does nothing but make string changes easier and doesn't have any real impact on the instrument itself. This is the same decision they made on the 594's after like 2019. With the price of guitars going up, including the SE's, it just seems like a no brainier to add locking tuners. It isn't that much of a cost increase, but it pays massively in the QoL department. The other thing I can't get is that they aren't offering hardshell cases. I think it should be an option at that price point to be completely honest with you. I have enough guitars at this point that I have a difficult time storing the cases, and maybe that was a reason for the gig bag decision, but I think it should at least be an option without a huge upcharge. I am a PRS fan through and through, but I am starting question some of the decisions that they are making at this point.
I bought a G&L Tribute ASAT Special with Leo's Jumbo MFD pickups and love it. Also has the best T-style tailpiece (again, Leo's design) out there. $400 on sale.
I love the guitars and really excited to try it out - the one thing that doesn’t seem acceptable, and I’ve seen it in all new PRS Teles, is the off centre wood joint for the body. For 3k I think it should be fair to expect either a single piece for the body or at least a centre joined one. Seems like another way to save $ on these.
Its perfectly on a 1/3 mark which makes me think its intentional. Its not traditional but it doesnt look bad. If the pieces are matched well and the grain pattern isnt wildly different I would love that on my own guitar.
I saw an explanation of why the 3-piece body: The big swamp ash slabs required to make a 1-piece body come from below the water line of the tree. That's the super heavy wood. They wanted to use the lighter wood that is above the water line. The diameter of the trunk that is above the water line is not big enough.
Great video, really helpful. As a Tele guy (2 Fender & 1 Schecter), who also owns a PRS Custom 24, I feel like this is a MEH inspiration wise. The price on these is just ridiculous. Thanks Phil.
I agree. I get why they're the price they are but for nearly $3000, I would want binding, more finish options, etc. Especially when others American made guitars do more for less By the way, how do you like Schecter's Tele guitars? I was looking at them and they seem really solid
I have a Schecter PT 30th Anniversary (2:humbuckers with coil split) and I absolutely love it. It’s rock solid, made in Korea. I’ve found that with Schecter you really get a lot for your money.
@@grawman67 Not sure if you're going for a more traditional route or something more modern, but imo, the PT SLS Elite is about as high specced of a production tele as you can find, for like $1500. They've got several more traditional ones that are cheaper too. You can't go wrong imo
Really dig your in depth videos on new guitars Phil, everyone should watch these before pulling the trigger on a new one 🤙 Your tips regarding doing repairs is also great too man, thanks.
Tbh my first reaction upon seeing this guitar when it released was "that's ugly". There are no shortage of options in this price range (and really all others) for Tele style guitars, both modern and classic styled, it's a crowed market to be in & I just really don't think it looks or sounds good enough to really make it stand out.
This looks like a pretty sweet guitar though. If I were a telecaster guy and a bit more of a PRS guy I would be getting the NF53, probably in the blue. However you summed it up perfectly at the end, Phil-- I would prefer that semi-hollow everyday of the week and twice on Sunday.
New tooling for those pickups. They are alnico bars with iron rods in between them if I recall correctly. I can't see where else the money is going. The scarfed head shocks me at this price
Thanksfor your videos phill !! awesome, I love this guitar, but I feel I'm well. with my pre vela for now. Phill I'm actually buying a new acoustic I'm between a Taylor 114ce and a Martin 000-10e any thoughts?
The most interesting Tele I've played and own is the Glary chambered version that Phil covered maybe a year ago. People look at it and say WTF since the looks on stage are killer. The humbucker in the neck position and single coil on the bridge make for some very cool sounds. Totally reminds me of a Fender Tex-Mex Special Telecaster. Once you do a full setup on the Glary and get past the baseball bat neck, it's actually a very playable guitar.
I really appreciate your reviews Phil. Been watching for years. Got a chance to play an NF 53 this week in the local shop. It's a fantastic guitar that would be nice to have. But, I agree with you that other brands come to mind like Suhr, Kiesel, etc. that might be considered based on the price category.
I honestly think firefly’s new tele series is much better than this prs. Obviously the attention to detail isn’t the same but the firefly’s look nice, come in many configurations/colors. All have locking tuners and coil splitting for all humbucker units. It has ball end stainless steel frets and is only $170. I could buy 15 firefly’s for the same price and easily find one I could connect with more than this prs.
I do like the guitar, a lot, coming from a PRS owner and player. I gotta say the MK version is more tele sounding, and I like that one a lot more for tele needs. But yeah, that price is outrageous to all but the most wealthy musicians. Looking forward to an SE version, as well.
Same here. The MK sounds more Tele to my ears too and with more versatility with the foil split sounds too. I think an SE version will be fairly popular and a cool buy at that price point
I’ve just bought a Roxy Pink SS . Whilst in the store I played this same guitar and must say it was incredible great feel and a sound to die for . The neck is completely smooth and comfortable the only reason I didn’t purchase one … I was completely set on 😊the silver sky.
No he’ll get something; Paul is one of those Cringe-Boomers who will make sure to send Phil a nice lump of charcoal and then giggle to himself about it.
Hi Phil, the NF53 sounded so much nicer overall than the MK. However, I am with you in your ‘value for money’ thoughts. I think the market for ‘Tele’ style guitars is quite saturated as it is. Great review on both highlighting the differences. Cheers ✌️🎸
I currently own the semi-hollow CE24 , and a semi-hollow S2 Vela which are both excellent guitars. I wanted a T-style guitar, but decided on the Vola Vasti simply because it is "made in Japan" quality, Gotoh Hardware, and superb fit & finish for way less than 1/2 the price of the NF53. I feel the PRS NF53 and MK would be great in the $2k range, but $2900 is just too much IMHO.
Phil- my amp tore up man, can't get a peep out of it. I tried bypassing the preamp- going directly into the return on the fx loop- still nothing. Tried the digital output- it's a Blackstar club 40- still nothing. Pulled the fuses on the rear, they look fine. I now own an 800+ dollar door stop basically. So, I'm making the change- selling all my pedals, power supplies, boards, etc.- buying a modeler and a cab- or some FRFR speakers. Could just use the amp as a cab now I guess- I put a Cream back 75 heavy mag. in it and it's a closed back combo that has the 1/4 inch speaker connection you plug into the back of the head- I could just plug my modeler into it. Idk- you think the frfr speakers are worth investing in? Or a set of PA speakers?
I think the problem is, people are expecting it to be a tele when it’s a PRS guitar built for people used to the tele shape. I have a PRS Custom 24 and its a great guitar, but when I wanted a strat, I bought a strat, not a Silver Sky. They’re not the same thing. So if you want a tele, buy a tele. If you want a great guitar with the features being offered in this new guitar then buy a PRS.
TBH: The NF53 and MK T style are about the recent PRS Fiore.. its a bit much and if they were in the $1900 to 2500 price range it would be about the right price. But anything over $2500 is custom shop territory. PRS does demand a premium since they make such great instruments but these don't have Drop Dead great looking tops or translucent paints ect.. ect..
It's hard to get telecaster players on board. The McCarty is a perfect LP in my book. But when it comes to telecasters I just go fender because it's the perfect guitar.
The tele is not perfect. Very weak neck pickup. No individual saddles on the vintage style bridge. Uncomfortable slab body. And teles look ugly to people who arent guitarists.
The one thing I still haven't seen anyone mention is the fact that the Myles Kennedy version bridge pickup is slanted and the nf53 isn't and if there was a specific reason for this or not?
I like the NF53 alot, but $3k after tax is a no-go zone for me on it. It would have been alot better recieved at a $2399 mark considering it's a bolt on. When these hit the SE range they will sell like hotcakes though!
The pickups are what I’m more curious about. My understanding the will not cut any of the sound/tone off when the volume on the guitar is cranked, they are noiseless pickups. That and besides being the closest to a Tele and not the Kennedy. That’s the selling point….I would like to hear more about the pickups and the volume being turned up…
I've watched the reviews and demo's on both of these. I'm still firmly in the middle LOL. I have no doubt it's a great guitar, and I could argue both sides of the $$ thing. If I was looking for something that made sounds like this for gigging, no question I'd buy it in a minute. To have it hanging in a rack to play once in a while, too much $$. Great review Phil! Thanks, --gary
Idk, I didn't buy it because it's styled like a Tele. I bought it because PRS makes incredible guitars, just like this one. I love it and in no way look at it as a "Tele clone." Just a minor inspiration of body shape. But hey, we can all have our opinions!
I love both Fender and PRS. But in this case, for my money I would grab a Fender Tele Ultra. They have the classic look combined with the modern playability for way less $$
I like these, I just can't wrap my head round the price. I think the MK is too expensive anyway (more expensive than a CE!), but for this to lose the locking tuners, lose the headstock veneer and not have an artists premium attached, why on earth is it the same price!?
@@dubster82 @dubster82 you asked why the miles Kennedy model was same price as the normal one when it lacked the locking Tuners, etc. I answered cos the artist is paid the royalty and that in part comes from the cheaper parts and production compared to the nf53. Miles is not paid a royalty on the normal nf53 sales
Is it possible that these are being put out at this price for marketing? Wait for the SE version to come in at $1200.00 and everyone will say what a bargain!
The reason i wasn't interested is for 2 reasons. The price being the biggest reason, and the choice of pickups, but i will say even though the pickups arent my preference i can appreciate PRS making the guitar they wanted to make. Definitely a unique T style guitar. I think their take on a Tele was a good idea, just not my thing and way out of my price range. If they had an SE version with a single coil neck pickup i would definitely consider getting one
This is one of those "put the PRS name it on it and charge a premium" marketed toward people who would rather buy an affordable tele. The real thing. We don't need an "upscale" "PRS-ified" tele, as little as we needed a SilverSky.
$3k USD for: a 3-piece body, scarf joint neck, non-locking tuners, no vintage tint on the neck like the older CE's, weird looking tuner buttons, no string-thru body option, and a gig bag? Pass.
Leo Fender; “I want to make a good guitar cheap enough for the Everyman working musician” Paul Reed Smith, “but what if we made it stupid expensive and even uglier?”
This guitar is a lot of money, but the Silver Sky Core now goes for $2,750 so it is in the same price range. The Fender Jimmy Page Telecaster is the same price. The Fender Vintage II is $2,400. But I do agree, this guitar should be around $2,400.
I think the biggest mistake people make is that a PRS is it's own thing. It's not a Fender, Gibson, Jackson, Charvel, Ernie Ball, Epiphone, Squier, Yamaha, etc. It's a PRS that is using a similar shape because that shape is familiar & will sell. A PRS sounds like a PRS while sounding a bit like other brands.
People always complain about the price of this guitar. The only complaint I have concerning the price is that I think it should come with a hard shell case instead of a gig bag for this price.
I own several G&l ASAT Classic Tributes that serve me well in playing out .. $400 any day of the week !!! I just swap out the tall bridge screws for 8mm for comfortable playing ... Besides, guitar 🎸 playing comes from the individual player than brand of guitar ...
I bought a “ Vintage “ brand T72 in cherry burst with Wilkinson hardware and Wilkinson mini humbucker in the neck and a single coil in the bridge one piece maple neck and it plays a dream and sounds awesome and it cost $550.00 Australian. I wouldn’t spend $3 grand on either of those, it just isn’t quantified. Apart from the reputable name.
The MK and NF53 have different body shapes, they do not share the same horn carve. The NF53 has a slight offset shape to it, whereas the MK had a boxier shape.
PRS pretty much hit every body style you could want now! I’ve been impressed with the quality of their guitars from €700 - €2,600. My ‘goto’ builder now!❤ Thanks for all your time and dedication to your viewers! Really appreciate your thorough and honest reviews! ❤
The only thing I can kind of think of that they don't hit the itch for are hollow jazz boxes and offset guitars like Jazzmasters, Mustangs, and Jaguars. I agree though! Their quality is really consistent across all of their ranges.
Now that I think about it, the silvee sky also has a scarf joint. I could blame John mayer for wanting such a thing on his sig, but with the nf53 ? Nah man....prs needs a straight headstock asap
As usual, PRS (whose guitars I love) seem kits the options I want between 2 models… love the satin neck and locking tuners on the mk, but way prefer the pickups and sound in the NF…
The only thing interesting to me about this guitar is if they really managed to make a pickup that sounds closer to a Tele bridge pickup than the alternatives without the hum. But it seems like there’s significant development and manufacturing costs that end up overshadowing whether they accomplished that. It may be interesting to see where it goes in the long run, though. The hum hasn’t been a significant issue for me, and I’m willing to make compromises it cases where it is. Plus, I’m not buying a Tele-style guitar from someone who says the standard Tele neck pickup is useless. So, while I’m sure this is a great guitar for some players, it is not a guitar for me.
Definitely was a little bummed by these guitars but to each their own, if someone likes it then I hope they enjoy it. For the price it doesn’t seem to be anything innovative but just an amalgamation of different guitars that came before it from prs Side note, I can’t believe prs CE semi hollows are almost 2750, it seems like last year they were 2300 and ce’s were 2100 or even 2000. That’s crazy
When PRS put the bird fret markers on their high end guitars I liked it. Now that it is on almost everyone of their guitars including the SE's its getting old. The Tele is a minimalist design and need the simple dots.
Love the tones of this guitar more than the mk but dude wtf was prs thinking with the price. Hope this comes in se sooner than later. Or they drop the price
If you buy this to play at home then you are either a collector or just a fanboy of everything PRS. But gigging 2-3 times a week… I’ll stay with my Les Pauls, Fenders and Ibanez. It will be interesting to see how many gigging musicians run out there at that price point to make it part of their arsenal. Just my humble opinion.
perhaps i'm just out of touch, but that's a lot of money for a guitar that comes with just a gig bag, right? Surely at that kind of price they could throw in a case?
First, I just wanna say I am not a young, hot-shot guitar marketing whiz kid....just a very grumpy, opinionated old geezer. Second, I have NO idea who Myles Kennedy is....same for 96% of all other guitar and amp endorsers. I don't understand PRS trying to get into Fender territory here. I can remember reading about Paul Reed Smith in Guitar Player magazine decades ago and am still amazed that he could take on Fender AND Gibson and in many ways beat them at their own game....quality woods, beautiful hand applied finishes, constantly making improvements, etc. Now I think they went a little overboard with the pricing and glitzy ornamentation at times....I like tasty & simple...The Eagle is something I would never buy even if I could afford it. So, they come out with this high buck Tele copy and I'm willing to bet that several of their SE models would smoke it in a side by side comparison. To me, PRS always stood for quality, at a fairly reasonable price in most cases, and Fender was more of a working man's guitar so I find it really strange that they would even want to offer a Tele shaped instrument....especially an expensive one !! Rant over. 😅
There's a ton of T-style guitars available in the sub $2k range and even the sub $1k range has a ton of options. That $3k mark is a leap where you really need to like the features/tones. I'm sure it's well built, but it's above the "maybe an impulse buy" range by a ton. If it gets to their SE lineup, they'll likely get better response.
I’ve been seeing more T-shape bodies lately. I think they’re in style right now. 🤷🏻♂️
"That $3k mark is a leap where you really need to like the features/tone." Don't forget the visual aspect also, everything from body shape to fretboard to lack of binding, etc. Many higher end Teles have binding, use rosewood or ebony, and have a look that people find pleasing. Things like binding don't effect the sound, but it costs more to make.
@@ChrisEck13 Locking tuners, and even single piece bodies as opposed to a 3 piece body. Like you said, at that price range, there are some appointments you really expect to see, but I fear that PRS is beginning to think that the name on the headstock warrants whatever price tag they choose to put on it; which is dangerous/ GIbson/ Fender territory.
@@Psichlo1wtf are you on about. PRS has always been expensive. It's expensive making things in America. Especially if you want everything made in America. Other brands are just assembling parts they import in America which is how PRS can make s2s that are like half to a third the price. You need to learn about economics brother 😂😂😂
@@StupidGuitarIt's not the customer's issue though. If other brands are doing swamp ash bodies in one piece and are charging less, PRS should be able to do the same. And if they can't do one piece bodies because of some kind of supply issues like big ash trees being hard to find, they should have more custom appointments that make the price tag make sense like binding, more finish options, etc so people who like these can't find one that matches exactly what they want
Thanks for also using the metric system in your descriptions - for those of us who live outside the US it helps a lot.
I would love to try one out, but the price point is too high imo.
Philip I so love how you get down to reality in your reviews. Thank you!
I've said it before, I will say it again. I can't wrap my head around some of the decisions that PRS is making at the moment. I get that this is supposed to be modeled, essentially, after Pauls 53 tele, but not putting locking tuners on what amounts to a 3k dollar guitar just doesn't make sense. I get the "vintage" vibe, but locking tuners does nothing but make string changes easier and doesn't have any real impact on the instrument itself. This is the same decision they made on the 594's after like 2019. With the price of guitars going up, including the SE's, it just seems like a no brainier to add locking tuners. It isn't that much of a cost increase, but it pays massively in the QoL department. The other thing I can't get is that they aren't offering hardshell cases. I think it should be an option at that price point to be completely honest with you. I have enough guitars at this point that I have a difficult time storing the cases, and maybe that was a reason for the gig bag decision, but I think it should at least be an option without a huge upcharge. I am a PRS fan through and through, but I am starting question some of the decisions that they are making at this point.
Every bassist with $3k guitars laughs at your complaint about non locking tuners.
I agree locking tuners and lack of a hardshell case baffle me with the NF53
@@StupidGuitar exactly. Stable tuners and a solid stringing process.
@@StupidGuitar Fenders don't have issues with tuning - it's Gibson that are retarded when it comes to tuning.
I agree 100%. Locking tuners are the way to go and I love PRS style locking tuners.
Price notwithstanding, that guitar sounds really good.
Great coverage Phil, this is why i watch your channel. Thanks for all the work that you put into your reviews and videos
This should have been in the S2 price range, they really missed the mark on these.
I bought a G&L Tribute ASAT Special with Leo's Jumbo MFD pickups and love it. Also has the best T-style tailpiece (again, Leo's design) out there. $400 on sale.
I love the guitars and really excited to try it out - the one thing that doesn’t seem acceptable, and I’ve seen it in all new PRS Teles, is the off centre wood joint for the body. For 3k I think it should be fair to expect either a single piece for the body or at least a centre joined one. Seems like another way to save $ on these.
Its perfectly on a 1/3 mark which makes me think its intentional. Its not traditional but it doesnt look bad. If the pieces are matched well and the grain pattern isnt wildly different I would love that on my own guitar.
Hell a pro 2 is only 1800
Some people (inc Eric Johnson) feel center joined affects tone. This is a solid body, not a top we’re talking about. Gotta think like a fender dude.
I saw an explanation of why the 3-piece body: The big swamp ash slabs required to make a 1-piece body come from below the water line of the tree. That's the super heavy wood. They wanted to use the lighter wood that is above the water line. The diameter of the trunk that is above the water line is not big enough.
Hello from the Philippines , your my favorite reviewer, thanks for all the honest and comprehensive reviews .
Great video, really helpful. As a Tele guy (2 Fender & 1 Schecter), who also owns a PRS Custom 24, I feel like this is a MEH inspiration wise. The price on these is just ridiculous. Thanks Phil.
I agree. I get why they're the price they are but for nearly $3000, I would want binding, more finish options, etc. Especially when others American made guitars do more for less
By the way, how do you like Schecter's Tele guitars? I was looking at them and they seem really solid
I have a Schecter PT 30th Anniversary (2:humbuckers with coil split) and I absolutely love it. It’s rock solid, made in Korea. I’ve found that with Schecter you really get a lot for your money.
@@grawman67 Not sure if you're going for a more traditional route or something more modern, but imo, the PT SLS Elite is about as high specced of a production tele as you can find, for like $1500. They've got several more traditional ones that are cheaper too. You can't go wrong imo
Thanks for the look phil!
teaching us how to improve on PRS. Love it.
Great video Phil! Loving the tones. Anything through grapevine on a rosewood or ebony fret board?
Really dig your in depth videos on new guitars Phil, everyone should watch these before pulling the trigger on a new one 🤙
Your tips regarding doing repairs is also great too man, thanks.
wow, a $2800 tele copy with a scarf joint and non-stainless frets. That's a big OUCH!
...and a 3-piece body. Having written all that, I think it looks nice, is well build, and sounds nice. But that price!
Tbh my first reaction upon seeing this guitar when it released was "that's ugly". There are no shortage of options in this price range (and really all others) for Tele style guitars, both modern and classic styled, it's a crowed market to be in & I just really don't think it looks or sounds good enough to really make it stand out.
Great video phil thx
This looks like a pretty sweet guitar though. If I were a telecaster guy and a bit more of a PRS guy I would be getting the NF53, probably in the blue. However you summed it up perfectly at the end, Phil-- I would prefer that semi-hollow everyday of the week and twice on Sunday.
New tooling for those pickups. They are alnico bars with iron rods in between them if I recall correctly. I can't see where else the money is going. The scarfed head shocks me at this price
Thanksfor your videos phill !! awesome, I love this guitar, but I feel I'm well. with my pre vela for now.
Phill I'm actually buying a new acoustic I'm between a Taylor 114ce and a Martin 000-10e any thoughts?
Glad you mentioned the Godin Stadium. I’d rather have a G&L ASAT which Leo Fender designed.
The most interesting Tele I've played and own is the Glary chambered version that Phil covered maybe a year ago. People look at it and say WTF since the looks on stage are killer. The humbucker in the neck position and single coil on the bridge make for some very cool sounds. Totally reminds me of a Fender Tex-Mex Special Telecaster. Once you do a full setup on the Glary and get past the baseball bat neck, it's actually a very playable guitar.
I really appreciate your reviews Phil. Been watching for years. Got a chance to play an NF 53 this week in the local shop. It's a fantastic guitar that would be nice to have. But, I agree with you that other brands come to mind like Suhr, Kiesel, etc. that might be considered based on the price category.
Getting a Kiesel for half the price should be the end of the discussion
I honestly think firefly’s new tele series is much better than this prs. Obviously the attention to detail isn’t the same but the firefly’s look nice, come in many configurations/colors. All have locking tuners and coil splitting for all humbucker units. It has ball end stainless steel frets and is only $170. I could buy 15 firefly’s for the same price and easily find one I could connect with more than this prs.
I do like the guitar, a lot, coming from a PRS owner and player. I gotta say the MK version is more tele sounding, and I like that one a lot more for tele needs. But yeah, that price is outrageous to all but the most wealthy musicians. Looking forward to an SE version, as well.
Same here. The MK sounds more Tele to my ears too and with more versatility with the foil split sounds too. I think an SE version will be fairly popular and a cool buy at that price point
I’ve just bought a Roxy Pink SS . Whilst in the store I played this same guitar and must say it was incredible great feel and a sound to die for . The neck is completely smooth and comfortable the only reason I didn’t purchase one … I was completely set on 😊the silver sky.
Paul definitely crossed Phil off his Christmas list.
No he’ll get something; Paul is one of those Cringe-Boomers who will make sure to send Phil a nice lump of charcoal and then giggle to himself about it.
😂
Hi Phil, the NF53 sounded so much nicer overall than the MK. However, I am with you in your ‘value for money’ thoughts. I think the market for ‘Tele’ style guitars is quite saturated as it is. Great review on both highlighting the differences. Cheers ✌️🎸
Quality review.
I currently own the semi-hollow CE24 , and a semi-hollow S2 Vela which are both excellent guitars. I wanted a T-style guitar, but decided on the Vola Vasti simply because it is "made in Japan" quality, Gotoh Hardware, and superb fit & finish for way less than 1/2 the price of the NF53. I feel the PRS NF53 and MK would be great in the $2k range, but $2900 is just too much IMHO.
Phil- my amp tore up man, can't get a peep out of it. I tried bypassing the preamp- going directly into the return on the fx loop- still nothing. Tried the digital output- it's a Blackstar club 40- still nothing. Pulled the fuses on the rear, they look fine. I now own an 800+ dollar door stop basically. So, I'm making the change- selling all my pedals, power supplies, boards, etc.- buying a modeler and a cab- or some FRFR speakers. Could just use the amp as a cab now I guess- I put a Cream back 75 heavy mag. in it and it's a closed back combo that has the 1/4 inch speaker connection you plug into the back of the head- I could just plug my modeler into it. Idk- you think the frfr speakers are worth investing in? Or a set of PA speakers?
I would buy the black NF 53. I like the sound of it much better than the Myles Kennedy model
I think the problem is, people are expecting it to be a tele when it’s a PRS guitar built for people used to the tele shape. I have a PRS Custom 24 and its a great guitar, but when I wanted a strat, I bought a strat, not a Silver Sky. They’re not the same thing. So if you want a tele, buy a tele. If you want a great guitar with the features being offered in this new guitar then buy a PRS.
PRS thought they could catch magic twice. Got lucky with the John Mayer silver sky strat, fd up the tele.
A difference with you at Sweetwater is your video atmosphere is a bit less warm homey. I do appreciate your reviews.
I am looking forward to trying one. It sounds great.
As usual, Good job Phil
Great video. I was wondering how these pups compare to the Fender cunife pups? I am a PRS guy but the guitar seems priced somewhat high to me as well.
TBH: The NF53 and MK T style are about the recent PRS Fiore.. its a bit much and if they were in the $1900 to 2500 price range it would be about the right price. But anything over $2500 is custom shop territory. PRS does demand a premium since they make such great instruments but these don't have Drop Dead great looking tops or translucent paints ect.. ect..
It's hard to get telecaster players on board. The McCarty is a perfect LP in my book. But when it comes to telecasters I just go fender because it's the perfect guitar.
The tele is not perfect. Very weak neck pickup. No individual saddles on the vintage style bridge. Uncomfortable slab body. And teles look ugly to people who arent guitarists.
@@blastofo and my favorite jeans have some holes in them 🤘
@@blastofothose are all characteristics that make the fender tele perfect. The fender tele’s are The Telecaster’s, everything else is an imitation
@@Cmunic8 Is the G&L an imitation or an evolution?
I just don’t understand the saddles. Is there a benefit for 2 strings sharing a saddle?
Simplicity
Some honestly around the hype Thanks Phil
The one thing I still haven't seen anyone mention is the fact that the Myles Kennedy version bridge pickup is slanted and the nf53 isn't and if there was a specific reason for this or not?
Did you try the Epiphone - Crestwood Custom 150th? It has a similar sound and is only $1k.
That neck pup had 4 wire white and green not used...so tapping is an avalible option
Wow there is a big sound difference. I like me some low out put pickups. I liked the MK much better. It is weird they are the same price pretty much.
A Keisel for 1/2 the cost? Tells me everything.
To me, the maple fretboard with the black outline bird markers looks super cheap.
not trying to be a troll but I think the prs bolt on guitars look like the greg bennett guitars. I love the greg bennett guitars fyi.
Question: How would this compare to a Belltone Guitar ??
I like the NF53 alot, but $3k after tax is a no-go zone for me on it. It would have been alot better recieved at a $2399 mark considering it's a bolt on. When these hit the SE range they will sell like hotcakes though!
the "hand shake test" should be called the "grab from behind test". Much better marketing strategy.
The pickups are what I’m more curious about. My understanding the will not cut any of the sound/tone off when the volume on the guitar is cranked, they are noiseless pickups. That and besides being the closest to a Tele and not the Kennedy. That’s the selling point….I would like to hear more about the pickups and the volume being turned up…
I'll stick with my Sire thanks
I don’t see them as trying to improve the tele. Just a tele shaped guitar. It sounds great. What do I know tho, I’m just a beginner guitar player.
I've watched the reviews and demo's on both of these. I'm still firmly in the middle LOL. I have no doubt it's a great guitar, and I could argue both sides of the $$ thing. If I was looking for something that made sounds like this for gigging, no question I'd buy it in a minute. To have it hanging in a rack to play once in a while, too much $$. Great review Phil! Thanks, --gary
Idk, I didn't buy it because it's styled like a Tele. I bought it because PRS makes incredible guitars, just like this one. I love it and in no way look at it as a "Tele clone." Just a minor inspiration of body shape. But hey, we can all have our opinions!
I love both Fender and PRS. But in this case, for my money I would grab a Fender Tele Ultra. They have the classic look combined with the modern playability for way less $$
You could literally buy both the Blue and Tobacco Burst PRS Velas he shows at the 3 min mark for the price one of these...
I like these, I just can't wrap my head round the price. I think the MK is too expensive anyway (more expensive than a CE!), but for this to lose the locking tuners, lose the headstock veneer and not have an artists premium attached, why on earth is it the same price!?
Because Myles needs his royalty payment whilst PRS, the distributor and the shop also get their cuts too
@@truthtorpedo99 the NF53 isn't a myles Kennedy model.
The manufacturer, the distributor and the shops also get cuts of every guitar prs make.
@@dubster82 @dubster82 you asked why the miles Kennedy model was same price as the normal one when it lacked the locking Tuners, etc. I answered cos the artist is paid the royalty and that in part comes from the cheaper parts and production compared to the nf53. Miles is not paid a royalty on the normal nf53 sales
@@truthtorpedo99 incorrect, you have read my post wrong
I like the pickups. I can do without the rest of the guitar, but it does sound good.
If they make an SE version in black dog hair, I will definitely buy. But for now, price is too much for me
No way they're going to make a se with a swamp ash body
Did you notice PRS changed the neck pick up on the Vela. Do you know the story on that?
Is it possible that these are being put out at this price for marketing? Wait for the SE version to come in at $1200.00 and everyone will say what a bargain!
The reason i wasn't interested is for 2 reasons. The price being the biggest reason, and the choice of pickups, but i will say even though the pickups arent my preference i can appreciate PRS making the guitar they wanted to make. Definitely a unique T style guitar. I think their take on a Tele was a good idea, just not my thing and way out of my price range. If they had an SE version with a single coil neck pickup i would definitely consider getting one
This is one of those "put the PRS name it on it and charge a premium" marketed toward people who would rather buy an affordable tele. The real thing. We don't need an "upscale" "PRS-ified" tele, as little as we needed a SilverSky.
Maybe it's just the video, but I'm surprised at how bad some of the soldering looks. Looks like more than a couple cold joints.
$3k USD for: a 3-piece body, scarf joint neck, non-locking tuners, no vintage tint on the neck like the older CE's, weird looking tuner buttons, no string-thru body option, and a gig bag? Pass.
Leo Fender; “I want to make a good guitar cheap enough for the Everyman working musician”
Paul Reed Smith, “but what if we made it stupid expensive and even uglier?”
This guitar is a lot of money, but the Silver Sky Core now goes for $2,750 so it is in the same price range. The Fender Jimmy Page Telecaster is the same price. The Fender Vintage II is $2,400. But I do agree, this guitar should be around $2,400.
I think the biggest mistake people make is that a PRS is it's own thing. It's not a Fender, Gibson, Jackson, Charvel, Ernie Ball, Epiphone, Squier, Yamaha, etc. It's a PRS that is using a similar shape because that shape is familiar & will sell. A PRS sounds like a PRS while sounding a bit like other brands.
People always complain about the price of this guitar. The only complaint I have concerning the price is that I think it should come with a hard shell case instead of a gig bag for this price.
I own several G&l ASAT Classic Tributes that serve me well in playing out .. $400 any day of the week !!! I just swap out the tall bridge screws for 8mm for comfortable playing ... Besides, guitar 🎸 playing comes from the individual player than brand of guitar ...
I bought a “ Vintage “ brand T72 in cherry burst with Wilkinson hardware and Wilkinson mini humbucker in the neck and a single coil in the bridge one piece maple neck and it plays a dream and sounds awesome and it cost $550.00 Australian. I wouldn’t spend $3 grand on either of those, it just isn’t quantified. Apart from the reputable name.
The MK and NF53 have different body shapes, they do not share the same horn carve. The NF53 has a slight offset shape to it, whereas the MK had a boxier shape.
PRS pretty much hit every body style you could want now! I’ve been impressed with the quality of their guitars from €700 - €2,600. My ‘goto’ builder now!❤ Thanks for all your time and dedication to your viewers! Really appreciate your thorough and honest reviews! ❤
The only thing I can kind of think of that they don't hit the itch for are hollow jazz boxes and offset guitars like Jazzmasters, Mustangs, and Jaguars. I agree though! Their quality is really consistent across all of their ranges.
PRS pretty much copied every body style. No thanks. Fender spanks every thing Mr Know-it-all Smith tries to come up with.
Big bucks. I don’t get it. What am I missing?
How long before an SE model? That will be the guitar to get.
I agree about the price... its a tele...more or less. It be better than a fender... but you can buy a couple fenders...or a kiesel, etc.😊
I haven't watched but is it because it's 2999? Or it's a tele shaped thing that's not a tele? I did watch the other one not this one yet
Now that I think about it, the silvee sky also has a scarf joint. I could blame John mayer for wanting such a thing on his sig, but with the nf53 ? Nah man....prs needs a straight headstock asap
Why the high price?
As usual, PRS (whose guitars I love) seem kits the options I want between 2 models… love the satin neck and locking tuners on the mk, but way prefer the pickups and sound in the NF…
The only thing interesting to me about this guitar is if they really managed to make a pickup that sounds closer to a Tele bridge pickup than the alternatives without the hum. But it seems like there’s significant development and manufacturing costs that end up overshadowing whether they accomplished that. It may be interesting to see where it goes in the long run, though. The hum hasn’t been a significant issue for me, and I’m willing to make compromises it cases where it is. Plus, I’m not buying a Tele-style guitar from someone who says the standard Tele neck pickup is useless. So, while I’m sure this is a great guitar for some players, it is not a guitar for me.
Definitely was a little bummed by these guitars but to each their own, if someone likes it then I hope they enjoy it. For the price it doesn’t seem to be anything innovative but just an amalgamation of different guitars that came before it from prs
Side note, I can’t believe prs CE semi hollows are almost 2750, it seems like last year they were 2300 and ce’s were 2100 or even 2000. That’s crazy
Waiting for SE version
I'm sure people will go crazy for the SE, honestly
When PRS put the bird fret markers on their high end guitars I liked it. Now that it is on almost everyone of their guitars including the SE's its getting old. The Tele is a minimalist design and need the simple dots.
Love the tones of this guitar more than the mk but dude wtf was prs thinking with the price. Hope this comes in se sooner than later. Or they drop the price
If you buy this to play at home then you are either a collector or just a fanboy of everything PRS. But gigging 2-3 times a week… I’ll stay with my Les Pauls, Fenders and Ibanez. It will be interesting to see how many gigging musicians run out there at that price point to make it part of their arsenal. Just my humble opinion.
I can't believe that they'd charge that much money, and not even have a hard case! Apart from that, i want both of them!
These would look much better with a rosewood or ebony board
perhaps i'm just out of touch, but that's a lot of money for a guitar that comes with just a gig bag, right? Surely at that kind of price they could throw in a case?
I've seen another guy demo the MK. I didn't like the pickups in it of. the NF53 was a lot better with these pickups, but not for 3k.
The market is oversaturated right now with the t-style body. I just dont see the attraction, especially for $3000.
First, I just wanna say I am not a young, hot-shot guitar marketing whiz kid....just a very grumpy, opinionated old geezer.
Second, I have NO idea who Myles Kennedy is....same for 96% of all other guitar and amp endorsers.
I don't understand PRS trying to get into Fender territory here. I can remember reading about Paul Reed Smith in Guitar Player magazine decades ago and am still amazed that he could take on Fender AND Gibson and in many ways beat them at their own game....quality woods, beautiful hand applied finishes, constantly making improvements, etc.
Now I think they went a little overboard with the pricing and glitzy ornamentation at times....I like tasty & simple...The Eagle is something I would never buy even if I could afford it.
So, they come out with this high buck Tele copy and I'm willing to bet that several of their SE models would smoke it in a side by side comparison. To me, PRS always stood for quality, at a fairly reasonable price in most cases, and Fender was more of a working man's guitar so I find it really strange that they would even want to offer a Tele shaped instrument....especially an expensive one !! Rant over. 😅
I just can't deal with the bird inlays.
💯
I could never get past them either. Especially when gigging.