PRS Custom 24

The hybrid workhorse that launched Paul Reed Smith’s modern guitar empire.

Debuting at the 1985 NAMM show, the PRS Custom 24 merged Gibson-like set-neck sustain with Fender-inspired scale length and tremolo feel. With figured maple tops, bird inlays, and refined electronics, it quickly became a session favorite for its tuning stability and tonal range. The Custom 24 established PRS as a premier builder and remains the company’s flagship, evolving with switching options and proprietary pickups.

Introduced: 1985 (Annapolis, Maryland, USA)
Signature traits: Carved maple top, mahogany back, 25" scale, PRS tremolo
Notable players: Carlos Santana, Mark Tremonti, Orianthi