Paul Reed Smith In Person - The PRS Guitar Success Story

This is my interview with Paul Reed Smith about the start and success of PRS Guitars.
THE BEATO CLUB → flatfiv.co/pag...
THE BEATO EAR TRAINING PROGRAM: beatoeartraini...
BUY THE BEATO BOOK HERE → bit.ly/2uTQFlo
KEMPER PROFILES → flatfiv.co/col...
Follow my Instagram - / rickbeato1
*Advanced Harmonic Concepts for Composition and Improvisation Video Course* → www.flatfiv.co
SUBSCRIBE HERE → bit.ly/2eEs9gX
BEATO MUSIC FORUM → forum.rickbeato.com
--------------------------------------
My Links to Follow:
KZbin - / rickbeato
Personal Facebook - / rick.beato.1
Follow On Twitter - @rickbeato
------------------------------
Special Thanks to My Supporters:
Joel Martino
Brett Bottomley
Matthew Porter
Frederick Humphrey
Paul Noonan
Mansel Ismay
Jesse West
Aaron Rest
John Null
Michael D'Arrigo
James Haldenwang
Hector Medina
Doug Olander
Harry Brocious
Scott Schumann
Denis Oliveira
Gerry Lode
Bill Valentin
Joe Elrod
Pzz
Chris Defendorf
Debbie Valle
Dave Siemiaszko
Terry Morin
Ray Rossetti
Dan Sullivan
David Dodini
David Horvath
Ghostly Beard
Rip Winkler
Andrew Boyd
Will Elrics
Dennis Tomlinson
maydad meiri
Mayank Sanganeria
JP Rosato
Scott Rance
Michael Akraka
Craig Sayer Sayer
Eric Waisman
Terrance Bessey
Dave Hawkey
Roger Frankham
Todd Geisler
Chris Mitchell
Steve Greenberg
Morgan King
Rabe Knechel
Zack Kirkorian
Orion Letizi
Mike Voloshen
Ashley Thompson
Matt Pauley
jonathan taylor
Peter Pillitteri
Jeremy Hickerson
Travis Ahrenholtz
Harry Watson

[@vedicastrologyteacher]

I was one of the first 50 employees at PRS in 1986 ,.. worked with Jack Higginbotham and of course, Paul. I remember when Ted Mcarty was developing the model. A man named John Ingram was the other main developer (of the electronics). Paul built the body, John developed the electronics, the ninja switching and coil-tapping. Paul is a very special person and very generous to his employees with an uncompromising standard of quality. I was electronics manager for a while and Paul would drive us crazy with developing new pickups and sounds. He is a real researcher and perfectionist - and yes a Geek. But very loved and respected by those who know him. Notice how at the end of the interview he invited Rick to hang out and see his studio,..etc. He is a very generous and enthusiastic person, just being himself like you would with a friend, not like in some stuffy "interview",.. Anyway, is is sad to see all of the negative comments here.

[@TheDunateen77]

Southeastern777 yeah exactly and hughes and kettner aren't that big now are they? Just goes to show

[@TheDunateen77]

Southeastern777 yeah I know I was just joking but I don't take somomes passing as a joke so I apologise for that comment.

[@edwindantes539]

I am very glad to hear this about PRS, he may be eccentric, but I can tell he is a good guy.

[@J__C__]

Yea, his geekyness really comes out in those earlier interviews. Every time I see him, that's how I picture him still...back in 1985 with that mop on his head and thick glasses 🤣👍 Another company I've gravitated to lately is Texas Toast Guitars. They make some really nice stuff using mainly vintage tools and Matt, the owner, seems cool as hell.

[@frankadams4586]

Yes, the negative comments are disappointing. I had tremendous problems getting a DGT when they were first coming out. I won't detail all of that for the sake of brevity. But, I actually wrote Paul a letter detailing the issues and why after nearly a year of waiting, I was canceling the order. Around three weeks later, I checked my voicemail and there was a message from Paul. It began with an apology for why it took so long to get back to me (he was on vacation) and an apology for my bad experience. He asked me to call him on his personal cell phone. I called and in our first conversation, he spent over an hour with me describing the early issues they were having with producing the DGT. Mainly, the nitro finish was cracking in cold weather and they had to go back and completely reformulate the nitro finish they were going to use. He got all of my info - dealer, etc. and said he'd be back in touch. True to his word, he got back to me the next day. He called me again a couple of days later to tell me exactly where my guitar was in the production cycle - he went and picked the wood himself and got my guitar going. He called again a few days later to tell me that I'd see my guitar in less than a month. My guitar arrived in less than a month and it was perfect. The day after the guitar arrived, a nice package came in the mail with a letter from Paul and a signed backplate. He asked me to call him to let him know if everything was okay with the guitar. I called as he asked and I thanked him for everything. He told me to keep his number and to call if I ever needed anything. What other company does this? I'm a working guitar player as far from famous as you can get and he treated me like I was the most important customer he had. He told me that he makes guitars for guys like ME - people that use his instruments in order to make their living. He didn't have to do any of the things he did. He went WAY above and beyond for me. Reality can be very different from perception. No matter how Paul and his company are perceived, the reality is that he's serious about taking care of his customers and standing behind his products. A lot of big companies could care less.

[@jlr022159]

I was at a NAMM show once, years ago. I was getting hungry so I went to the cafeteria to get a salad and there was no room to sit, so I stepped across the hallway and knelt down to lean against the wall to eat my salad. After a few minutes I see this lanky guy come walking down the hallway real fast and I realize it’s Paul. As he passed me I said hi Paul! He turned around and waved and said hi and went around the corner. A split second later he came back and walked up to me so I stood up and shook his hand and said nice to meet you! He apologized that he was in a hurry but he took the time to come back and meet me. He didn’t have to do that, but he did. Paul is a very special person... great guitars too!

[@J__C__]

Wow! Thanks for sharing!

[@audiophileman7047]

You recognized him when so many people don't think it's him.

[@steverussell7645]

'When you're talking about 'you', you're talking about 330 people who are the company'. That's humility. That's integrity. I bought my first PRS last year after years of wishing. Stunning, beautiful instrument - and Im really pleased that my money has gone to a company headed up by a guy like Paul.

[@moviemaniac1838]

Nice! Which model did you go with?

[@archrodney]

Same, I got my hands on my very first PRS only 4 months ago. It is actually my second guitar ever and my first brand new one. I got my first guitar (which is a used Japanese Stratocaster replica) back in 2004 and I still play that too. I'm not a very talented guitar player though but I play at least 1 or 2 hours every day and absolutely love my PRS.

[@m.a.bushling]

The moment Mr. Smith said "When you say 'you', you're talking about 330 people, you not talking just me." he sold me on his company.

[@bluewater3783]

The moment he said that, I took him for a Big Pain-In-The-Ass...

[@Creaulx]

@@bluewater3783 He's crediting the people who work for him as being a valuable part of his organization, which any decent human being should do. Not sure I get why that makes him a pain in the ass...?

[@mikep6967]

Alan Burch Why?

[@bluewater3783]

@Southeastern777 Ok

[@Jasonian]

@@bluewater3783 You mean overly technical? You think he should just take the compliment and keep it simple without mucking into the weeds?

[@Giveme1goodreason]

It makes me wanna get a PRS hearing this guy talk!! 1. He is into playing 2. He wants everyone involved credited 3. He’s into building guitars.

[@midnightcruiser7762]

He's a salesman

[@matttheengineer278]

I always played the other two big names (custom shop stuff) … then I bought a PRS. The others have been gathering dust since that day. There is absolutely no comparison.

[@MichaelBassVideos]

I met Paul while touring the factory years ago. He was genuinely excited to meet the people interested in his guitars. I play a white Silver Sky now as my main guitar.

[@frozendivots1564]

I don’t get why Paul gets hammered. He’s a living legend. The McCarty 594 is a masterpiece, my Les Paul collects dust now. Give the guy credit, he took production line guitars to a new level.

[@cholepriccee2069]

Because he comes across as an arrogant hack.

[@frozendivots1564]

chole priicce so what. He changed production guitar quality.

[@bonusduckmann9997]

? Les pauls are a million times better

[@kekyko9951]

@@cholepriccee2069 hes far from a hack. He's forward thinking and versatile and his guitars prove it.

[@F87_Frank]

@@cholepriccee2069 he's not arrogant, he truly believes in his products and is confident that they are the best out. I can definitely see why some would think that though.

[@CWS1963]

Had a friend who had a HUGE guitar collection, great player. We were in the studio and he had a "favorite" custom shop strat. I thought it sounded like crap. He had a PRS and the tone and sustain from it was unbelievable. So we were going to track solos and in he comes with the yellow strat. 3 hours of takes, we all took lunch and told him to go home and get the PRS or dont come back. After lunch, the ballad was first and half way thru the first take he had a grin on his face I've never seen, solos all were 1 take the rest of the day. As a drummer, my favorite guitar, hands down.

[@user-oy7gz5bf2h]

This is the most candid and cringe-less interview I've ever seen with Paul. Congrats!

[@Squid-Lips]

If Rick edited all of Paul’s interviews then 90% of the cringe would disappear. I was weary that clicking this video would be full of Paul’s usual awkwardness. The moment I noticed how heavily the interview was edited was exactly when I noticed I wasn’t cringing as much.

[@RickBeato]

bill royall :)

[@RaymondUpenieks]

The one he did Tedx revealed his thinking in building. Had it's moments in other terms but was great. He was really relaxed and more spontaneous in this..by a big margin.

[@bradmodd7856]

so you have seen the one where he is interviewed by those 2 bozos that just try to get under his skin? I love that one

[@LUckybones25]

There was a lot of editing to make it appear that way. LOL

[@jamesf2918]

I love hearing Paul talk. He's crazy and passionate about what he does.

[@GreenTeaViewer]

Inspirational. That guy loves what he does

[@hollywoodactress]

Agree, hearing Paul speak is great. His wisdom, knowledge and stories of the industry is fascinating. I particular liked his reference to starting out with 500k investment and seeing the pot slowly shrink as they started and then slowly built back up when people took notice of the guitars.

[@aaronsmith2611]

When it comes to guitars, that dude is certified magic. And with the work and research he puts into his guitars, I'm surprised he is ever questioned about some of the decisions he makes for his products. He could build a guitar out of a grapefruit and I would give him the benefit of the doubt.

[@multipipi1234]

This is a good interview. Depends who he's talking to. Some interviews are painful.

[@deaconddd]

I love that Rick brought up the “Nu Metal” Era and how everyone was going out and buying Customs and Mesa Boogies, lol. I fell for that trap and spent way more than I could afford on my first PRS at that time. Sold it about 6 months later because I wasn’t even close of a decent guitar player to own one of those guitars. It’s been almost 20 years now and I finally got myself another PRS. Same quality, same beautiful tone, same magic. I owned guitars from all of them and nothing beats a PRS. Period.

[@stevewright2972]

I used to walk past a building in Annapolis Md with a small sign that said "Guitar Shop". I was 14 years old and thought that it was a Music Store so when I finally walked up the two flights of stairs I entered a "Work Shop" where I encountered five people and this tall dark haired young guy working on guitars. Fast Forward to 1986 and I entered a Music Store and held one of the very first "Production" PRS Guitars made. I couldn't get over how great it sounded and how light weight it was. Paul Reed Smith has made a name for Himself and remains humble.

[@johnk3195]

“We’re not gonna let the internet tell us how to build guitars “.... man, I love Paul’s attitude, vision and drive.

[@cjaquilino]

Ironic he’s saying that to an internet guy (Beato) who talks guitars and talks up how he appreciated the feedback of a KZbin reviewer who favorably compared his Silversky to a 65’ strat.

[@chiochio94]

@@cjaquilino Tim Pierce isn't just a random KZbin reviewer but a premier session guy...

[@Juaniguitarra86]

Ima say this: i dont own a PRS, but seeing Paul Smith in this interview really made me want to buy one. The dude can play, he has great tone, he tune the guitar by ear. You can tell he is a musician at hear.

[@peccatumDei]

I absolutely loved this interview! Paul is such a straight shooter. No hype, no B.S., just lays it out matter-of-fact.

[@RSPDiver]

What a gracious guy, giving credit to the company over himself. Great interview Rick!

[@ScrapwoodCity]

Wow that strat sounds amazing! The man is a craftsman, intellectual, artist entrepreneur, you name it! People talk about Steve Jobs for Apple. In my opinion this man is much more in his field! Respect for this interview! And definitely respect for this strat, this was so unexpected!

[@zukacs]

Steve didnt know his field at all, he knew getting the right people

[@briand.1694]

An "intellectual" Guitar maker should know that a capacitor is NOT a coil. It's the opposite of a coil. . .

[@jamiepaterson707]

@@briand.1694 you must be fun at parties

[@thenormalyears]

Steve Jobs gave himself cancer with some weirdo all fruit diet. Paul has much more common sense than that. Also Jobs didnt really work on the products apple sold and Paul definitely knows how to work on a guitar. Jobs was an excellent salesman but Paul is a genius inventor

[@HarryNicNicholas]

@@jamiepaterson707 people say that to compensate for not knowing what they are talking about. being fun at parties is not the goal here. he may make great guitars but this guy is a pin in th ass, i'd love to own one of his guitars but this is the last interview with him i'll be watching.

[@frenchiesfrankieandhenry]

2 friends of mine work at PRS. After you have worked there for a couple years you can build your own guitar. My buddy has a PRS explorer and its amazing to play.

[@scottyd2262]

I'm drooling about your comment !!!

[@miserychannel69]

me 2 .. Hey Paul .. It's overdue .. Explorer and V .. PLEASE!!

[@across3211]

Ok I NEED to see this!

[@turunturun]

Ok hold on you can’t drop a gem like this and scoot right past…..A PRS EXPLORER WE DEMAND TO KNOW MORE!!!!

[@jdg1105]

The Steve Jobs of guitar. Great video Rick and Paul!

[@davidlericain]

I was thinking the exact same thing. I was about to make the comment, but you beat me to it.

[@kitekrazee]

Except an PRS will not be obsolete.

[@Jonathan-L]

I remember back in 1988 when Paul Reed Smith said something along the lines of: "We'll never have any of our guitars made outside the USA". The Korean ones were actually pretty good.

[@ryanlittleton5615]

Except Paul is actually a likeable person.

[@Brucaleeffo]

such terrible comparison

[@michaelcarter3334]

He's a maverick genius that has redefined what it means to make quality guitars. I have 2 594 McCarty's. They are the best instruments I've ever played. His passion is contagious.

[@thedevilinthecircuit1414]

Great interview. Most people at this level of vision, drive, and influence are quirky or eccentric when compared to most folks. I knew Paul in the 80s when he had his little workshop on West Street in Annapolis, and he was this way back then. Consider this as well: Leo Fender was considered a "pest" by many of the western swing players of his day because he would walk onstage during a band's performance and make adjustments to the players' amps. He was difficult to get along with because all he thought about was guitar design and how to make things better. You try taking on Gibson and Fender and succeed--and see if your head stays where it is. It's gotta be surreal. Thanks Rick!

[@cjaquilino]

We all have our eccentricities. But it’s possible to be a genius and innovator without being a dick or lacking certain social graces to a level where clearly hundreds of people (judging by the many upvoted comments on this video) see it that way. At the least his demeanor is noticeably controversial to enough people who can’t just dismiss it away with some male genius mythology.

[@AvioftheSand]

3:49 There is a man that actually care about or at the very least, acknowledges the people that work for him.

[@vedicastrologyteacher]

I worked for Paul for 8 years and he is very grateful for the people that work for him. What you see here is Paul, 24/7. He is always this enthusiastic and eccentric and warm and personable. But he knows (and never forgets) the work it takes to make the guitars. I also know his day to day life and it is in a FACTORY, with people working their asses off, especially Paul. As you may imagine, few people care about their product as much as Paul. That "pride" in the instrument is passed on to everyone at the factory or else they do not last. They are fired. It is called PRS Pride. Paul, and everyone around you at the company, insists on it. Paul never forgets that he is making instruments for people lke him, who play gigs and want to have a great sounding, great looking instrument.

[@andrewdimartino7426]

It blows my mind how unique and wonderful Paul is, I could listen to him talk all day. He is so driven and passionate in an unabashed way that you know no problem is going to stay in his for long when he wants to solve it. He does make some of the most beautiful guitars on the planet to date, but the work ethic and drive he ( and Rick) has is something humanity would be better off having more of in general.

[@leosgf]

Rick, I’m a big fan of yours. I’d like you to tell that you really deserve your success here on KZbin. Amazing content in so different subjects. Thanks 🙏🏽

[@jamesnelson1443]

Paul’s attention to the finest detail & research is what makes PRS simply the GOAT!!!!!!!!!! His commitment to excellence & his employees deserves the highest honors! I have a 594, & going to buy a Silver Sky!

[@operastudio1238]

The best people is always the most humble. Mr. PRS is an amazing person, passionate and true. He deserves every bit of his success. Great interview. 👍🏻

[@garypatek8060]

I’ve attended many of Paul’s charity events and I can tell you he’s extremely passionate about his craft. He’s also a very generous, down to earth guy.

[@sagenev]

two of my favorite people, just talking. the internet is the best. I could, and do, watch PRS stuff for hours and hours.

[@zackguitar07]

Excellent interview, Rick! I’ve loved Paul’s guitars for a long time and even though he can have an abrasive personality depending on who he’s talking to you, you were able to get a lot of great stories and info out of him. I finished my Masters in Music Education degree back in May and celebrated with a PRS SE Custom 24 Zebrawood model and I can no longer picture my life as a musician without it!

[@miblish5168]

Great interview, BUT... I wish you had talked to him about the SE line. I would have liked to hear him speak openly about the quality of parts and labor in the Korean-made models.

[@SnookOnTheFly]

There is an interview out there just like you’re looking for. Search for it and you’ll find it. I absolutely love my se a50

[@a-funk1253]

Just by watching this interview I can see that he is an extraordinary man. Loving every detail of guitar making and clearly being passionate what he is doing with great intellect. That, people, eventually leads to success !

[@mhagnew]

Great interview. Would love one with Dan Erlewine, who has done so much to educate both luthiers and guitarists about how guitars work, and to help raise the standard of the guitar repair industry. Guy's a legend.

[@AmandaKaymusic]

"I don't know, it just works for me" is how I found my 'La Patrie'. 'My precious' is a magnificent tone wood guitar. I bought it before I was aware or able to explain what I loved about it. I thing just picking up a guitar and playing it (and singing into the sound hole if it has one) and hearing if it sings for you is the best way to find a guitar to love. Each guitar has its own sound just as every tree has different grain. Thanks for a good interview Rick.

[@zacharymiraziz4585]

Amazing interview! I've heard he is a pretty eccentric dude, but he comes across really humble, and grateful for what he and his 330 people have built! Makes me love their hardware even more! Thanks Rick!

[@jorgeloo3131]

I thought for a minute he was not going to shake Rick's hand... It's known Paul is kinda complicated to manage for interviews but what a humble guy this gentleman seems to be! Great interview Rick! Cheers from Peru!

[@sonatedaquiTFM]

when he played his prs, you can't deny he's right, such a full great tone

[@crigonalgaming1258]

Gabriel Seixas That PRS Silver Sky just oozes with tone, the hairs of your body just stand up

[@RezaKhan2024]

Probably the most “Open” PRS interview ever. He is a genius but extremely protective of his brand and idea. He simply overwhelmed the other interviewers in the other videos I have seen so far, but fortunately not the case here. Thanks Rick.

[@firemarshal2629]

This guy deserves all the credit he can get. PRS has constantly released amazing guitars and has redefined what a gigging guitar is with his SE line. Yes he's quirky but show me a successful businessman that isnt. Love that he owned his success to his employees too. More bosses could learn from him.

[@crimsun7186]

Depends on what is "successful" in your definition.

[@markbundy1694]

One of the best Paul Smith Interviews I've seen... It seems he has a tendency to go sideways real quick. Great Job Rick!!! You deserve an award for this one... 🎸Gibson and PRS are both great instruments. I think Paul has a soft spot for Gibson Guitars.

[@joeyride58]

Passion , Its what's built into every PRS... & it all starts with him.

[@ttownsend3252]

Finding people with PASSION for what they do is somewhat rare. Nobody in the guitar business has more passion than this man. It’s one reason why I have purchased three of his instruments in the past year … they are fantastic.

[@robertfox977]

I'm a drummer. If I played guitar I'd play PRS. Great guitars. Great company. Great man. Nice interview Rick.

[@YBNegative]

Dude! You won him over! He went from 'not sure if i should shake your hand' to a hearty handshake and muttering 'cut from the same cloth I am'...

[@MrRubyscube]

Haha!! Well done Rick! Hilarious how every time you started talking he would begin playing. Just testing you out, like I bet he does with most interviewers. But you caught on to him and didn't miss a beat. Then finally won his heart over with the "Hey come on, I'm just waiting for you to invite me to your studio man." It was a thing of beauty. Enjoy your new "borrowed" PRS! ;)

[@stephenfiore9960]

Per Christian Holm .....Yah, why borrowed? Didn’t make sense. PRS has the money. Rick would be a great promotional guy, and he is getting better all the time.

[@MrRubyscube]

@@stephenfiore9960 Oh hush, that was just a joke on my part. If he says it's loaned, it is.

[@patfix]

Yeah, PRS always does that. Jumps from anecdote to anecdote and always plays at awkward moments. :-D It's nothing personal, just typically him. I like it, it's a good sign that he wants to play his own guitars all the time and I think his anecdotes are really interesting.

[@ResoBridge]

Playing while the other guy is speaking is a little rude, but the thing is, put a guitar in the hands of any guitar nut and try and hold conversation with them. Odds are they will start making noises on the guitar, they can't help themselves. The annoying thing about Mr Smith is he will usually try and do the same thing with speech, try to out riff any interviewer with interruptions and dominate the conversation.

[@JazzBear]

I have a PRS CE 24. It’s the best guitar I’ve ever played. It just sings. And it makes me want to play. Bless you, Paul, for making a guitar that has added so much joy to my life!

[@NahreSol]

So cool to see you in the factory!

[@Solo-xb9dm]

You play guitar?

[@sassycat]

I could listen to that man talk shop about guitars, amps, EVERYTHING all day long! Thank you for sharing that interview. 👍

[@drvee1983]

I had a chance to meet PRS some years ago, and he is definitely "Special". But when I play my PRS I realize how none of my guitars play like it. It takes a little time to adjust from Gibson's to Fenders, depending on models. But PRS's tend to be "easy fit".

[@julianmetcalfe1070]

i heard my first PRS guitar in 19 85-86 it had 24 frets and i was beyond amazed not only with the craftsmanship but the sound so different crisp and new SUPER SLINKY NECK sustain wow,,and it wasnt heavy only in price,behold the beauty that lies with in a PRS, love love

[@dirtbike9003]

That was great, from a non guitar guy I loved the interview and the musical passion from Paul.

[@ryanmetzger2995]

Interviews like this have changed my opinion of Paul. I really appreciated him calling out the employees in the success of the company.

[@BillDutton]

Rick - you're the real deal and this was probably my favorite interview with Paul. Well done and thanks so much for your contributions.

[@SlevinSlix]

I was drawn to PRS guitars initially because my favorite guitarist is Mark Tremonti. So I always wanted to get one simply for that. However, once I actually got my Standard 24 and started learning more about the company and the man himself, I can say I fell in love. His passion and total involvement has always blown me away along with the consistent quality they give. Also his attitude of "you're talking about 330 people, not just me" is just unparalleled. Just recently got my second PRS (an SE Mira) and it's the second of many many more. Cheers to Paul and his company. 🙌🏻

[@chuckmadden2251]

Today's episode is Rainman the Luthier. Loved it!

[@samtheinsaneshred]

So that's what the "R" stands for in PRS

[@jaygreen1359]

Paul reed smith showing his employees some love warms my heart

[@steveg219]

I was looking forward to this because PRS is inpatient with most interviewers and can give them a hard time. I knew Rick could handle it- then he gets invited to hang out at NAMM and the studio!!

[@otter4253]

Bought my first PRS a couple years ago. Best guitar I ever bought, plays like a dream, holds tune, sounds terrific. Nothing else to say.

[@Chinaguitarsceptic]

Great watching this buddy. Nice interview and well held together. Quirky guy but incredible guitars they turn out.

[@carguy3460]

Quirky? He seemed like a real joyous dude.

[@larryh.3173]

@@carguy3460 Joyously quirky.

[@scrumlord7634]

I've watched this interview at least a half dozen times by now - I've watched pieces as well. It's addicting and I can't help but watch. Paul Reed Smith's passion about what he is doing and the people he does it with draws me in every time.

[@ShaunaMarieSings]

What an excellent interview, Rick...Paul totally rocks...his guitars sound amazing!!! 💗💗💗

[@TMoody]

As one who works/set up/teach guitar for a living, PRS are making the best guitars on the market today. I have one and now want a singlecut.... amazing pieces indeed.

[@scottrossgirvan8009]

You made a friend for life I'd say.

[@lonniezamarripa959]

The man speaks true! I purchased my first PRS sight unseen December 2016 . It is a Brent Mason signature model that I got from Wilcutt Guitar Shoppe. I unboxed it tuned it and plugged it up. Result: the thing played like butter left standing on the counter overnight in an 80 degree house!

[@sgttwistd1]

I love PRS guitars!

[@ronlamb3204]

I was shopping for a Tele, and I had no idea I wanted a PRS. I saw a used one on the wall at Guitar Center, picked it up and played it, and instantly knew I would buy it. It is my favorite guitar I've ever played, and I can't stop playing it. It has re-ignited my passion for playing. Thank you PRS!!!

[@Mephisto7529]

Going to go out on a limb here and say, I don't think he trusts the internet.

[@RonaldLeggettJr]

Blake Jensen he’s a smart man lol

[@TheDunateen77]

Yeah ive heard he doesn't even use his real name on most platforms

[@jacopasto3204]

noone should

[@caramanico1]

Nice job Rick! Having lived and grown up in and around the Annapolis, MD area (birthplace of PRS Guitars) with plenty of forays to the Eastern Shore (current home of PRS), I've had plenty of chances to watch, listen to and talk with other people about PRS and briefly to chat with him on several occasions. He is a brilliant engineer, very savvy musically, is an all around good guy and just a complete class act as a person.

[@Kipperbob]

I've been almost scared to try PRS guitars because I have the sneaky suspicion that it could initiate the onset of another bout of G. A. S (guitar acquisition syndrome) ,

[@duanewelsh5611]

You are so right! I bought a used mcarty 10 yrs ago. I now have 19 core models, 2 s2 and 1 se. I also have about 5 less Gibson's.

[@brandonanderson2066]

@@duanewelsh5611 how are the s2 models? I have a ce24 and looking to possibly bet an s2 mccarty!

[@duanewelsh5611]

@@brandonanderson2066 the s 2 are nice but the pickups on the core are better. I like the 594 singlecuts or the DGT the best.

[@isaiahmarquez9717]

Yep. I got a SE Custom 24 a few months ago. Today a S2 Custom 24 followed me home. Great great guitar.

[@greggnumme299]

"GAS?" IF YOU ARE A GUITAR PLAYER 🎸 ✨ ♥ WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU GOING TO DO? HELLFIRE AND DAMNATION BUD - I'M FEELING SO GOOD MAN! I WAS AT 43 GUITARS AND I CAN'T REMEMBER HOW MANY AMPS? NOW? JUST 5 AMPS AND SOMEWHERE AROUND 20 ODD GUITARS- I JUST BOUGHT A PRS CUSTOM 24 & I CAN'T EVEN PUT IT DOWN MAN... WHAT A MACHINE MY BROTHER... THE SE ROLLS OUT @ 849.00$ IT'S ABSOLUTELY AMAZING BIG DADDY... IF YOU DON'T HAVE ONE- BUY ONE! YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED!!! WOW👏 PRETTY MUCH COVERS IT! THE TONE IS INSANE... PEACE ✌ ☮ 🕊 GOOD LUCK! 43 YEARS OF PLAYING & IT TAKES ALOT OF JU JU TO GET ME JACKED AND I CAN'T EVEN PUT IT DOWN 🤔🤫😉

[@ChannelGilly]

One of the true Gentlemen of the Guitar Industry. Nice interview , Rick . Well done .

[@lautariccio2373]

Used by Gustavo Cerati in Soda Stereo. Nice!

[@marcobeltran7218]

Lauta Riccio Was not expecting to see a Soda Stereo fan here!

[@lautariccio2373]

Rick une generaciones y países jaja! Qué bueno ver a otro fan de Soda por aquí.

[@BassicVIC]

Lauta Riccio 😊👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@arnulfoparra9498]

Master Jedi Gustavo Cerati y su querida PRS la dio a conocer que bueno que Paul lo reconocio y le hizo su limited run model

[@johnniebgoode]

I only just discovered this one. Great job matching his personality. He started off quiet and unsure, so you matched him perfectly. After a bit, he warmed up to you and became quite animated. Very good interviewing skills.

[@wesboundmusic]

Nice observation, @Johnnie Goode and seeing as I've conducted a few interviews myself, among them one with the late Chuck Loeb, I concur with you on Rick's interviewing skills. He made him, Mr. Smith, feel comfortable and then he felt safe in sharing more of what's been going on with his guitars and company. That's where you need to get an interviewee to for the benefit of all listening, so that they're willing to open up as much as possible.

[@valuedhumanoid6574]

PRS is the ONLY guitar I will buy sight unseen. Just like Paul says, I know it's going to be right without having hold it in my hands. Now, that's for new guitars from an online retailer. Any used guitar is going into my hands, regardless of brand. Too many "good" fakes out there and too many liars, cheats and thieves.

[@chukrock]

I bought my first PRS in a shop. I bought the next three 'used' online without playing them - no need. Flawless! I have many guitars and PRS are the ONLY ones that have never needed any further tweaking.

[@donnasprague767]

Glad you came to visit. Growing up in Annapolis and learning guitar in the 80's PRS was legendary

[@Jerrylumdegaard]

Interviewing Paul is like a police bomb technician handling 50 year old Picric acid while riding a unicycle over a parking lot of speedbumps

[@permaculture3]

I was fortunate enough to see Paul play at NAMM -Anaheim HoB around 2010. I’ve been a fan ever since. Great interview and an amazing person.

[@alecdawson1668]

Paul always has this expression that suggests he's going to say the most profound thing you've ever heard...and then he never does.

[@hino-ucanada4506]

LOL. Ya.

[@smokesgtp]

Haha well said

[@jfo3000]

And he'll say something authoritatively that is totally incorrect, like "a capacitor is a coil". The way he criticized Li-sa-x's playing was deplorable. He is not a compassionate human. Probably a very tough guy to work with.

[@drcsciv]

If you're really good (passionate) at something then that is where your focus lies and other things might not be as honed or important to you, including the amount of work or effort to meet the expectations of everyone who has access to the internet.

[@crimsun7186]

@@user-tz2zz5ij1s I was about to say exactly that. Saying that acoustic instruments are the same as solid body ones just to prove tonewoods is like saying that apples and orange are exactly the same because they're both fruit.

[@findaway2sayyes]

Loved this interview, Rick! Thank you for always stepping up and teaching me more and more about music, guitars, and the differences. Love Paul’s passion about how each guitar sounds and for his team!

[@aidengeary2441]

You can't hand a guitar player a guitar and expect to have a conversation.

[@ayandey137]

The best example is John 5 in that hard rock cafe interview 😂

[@demuthjesse]

Paul and Rick! I can't think of two better people to sit down and have a convo about music and guitars! Both of u are genius' in your own right! Epic video! Love u both, legends in the flesh!

[@dortega12]

Jimmy page used a PRS for the 1998 tour.

[@patricksantana3337]

Interesting comment because I asked Paul in the early days (Annapolis) if he had any mainstream musicians using his guitars. He told me most of the big names were under contract and he couldn't afford to pay people to use his guitars. Weeks later, I was in the shipping department and noticed a name tag on a model going out with Jimmy Page's name and address on the shipping label.

[@seanfitzpatrick7878]

It's so nice to see that Paul is every bit the down to earth, nice guy that I've seen on the internet. I'm dow/ excited to be attending a PRS Master class this Summer in Annapolis MD. I'm really looking forward to meeting and hopefully jamming with Paul. I've been practicing my improvisational skills just for that purpose and I'm hoping to, with Paul's permission, post it on KZbin.

[@srwaite7]

Screw the Internet. Just make great guitars, period!

[@JimsMusicJourney]

I bought my first PRS yesterday. I got the Custom 24. As soon as I picked it up I knew I had to have it. My wife said, I never saw you smile like that when you picked up a guitar before. It is the best guitar I have ever played and I played many.

[@hlb979]

I'm not a guitarist, and it's telling that even for people like me, PRS is basically the only one among the most known names that instinctlively I would approach with the respect and the expectations associated with the concept of "liuthery"; that's how much they are good to project a special image of the brand

[@larsfrosznielsen3536]

What a great human being. Paul R Smith is like Jim Marshall, kind and warm and knows his worth. I had the chance meeting Mr. Marshall in 1987 and he was so nice, and Mr. Smith sounds like he is the same way. Another great video from Mr. Beato

[@jessejive117]

I think these are the best guitars ever made.

[@thejmrexperience2349]

PRS produces some of the finest guitars available, but theres a whole other lever out there too. If you wanna be inspired look up the Kiesel guitars factory tour....

[@alanfarias2923]

I’ve watched the factory tour of PRS and then this interview on Paul. Before these I watched all the Gibson guitar videos, because I was always wanted to get Les Paul model. However now after watching this interview with Paul I’m sold on buying a PRS, and I don’t even play the guitar, but I will take lessons and learn. They are a work of Art and more.

[@etrivard]

Capacitor is a coil ? Isn't a capacitor two conductors separated by some insulation ?

[@p37ert]

I think he meant inductor (for pick-ups)

[@steveg219]

I agree but I think he meant that it interacts with the pickup and components in the guitar

[@joshstarkey8883]

I thought it might be referring to how they roll up the insulator/conductor layers to make some caps, I'm really not sure though

[@pat4rush]

He's probably referring to an inductor, not a capacitor. Although inductors do have a small intrinsic capacitance. But I'm guessing he meant inductor.

[@politicalGRAFFITI]

@@joshstarkey8883 yes there would be inductance in the rolled up plates.

[@PalindromeDesign]

He is very supportive of local music education and programs, and even though I was old guy, I was involved with one of them as was his stepson (great drummer BTW). Anyway, we had a 19 yr old guitarist, really good, especially in the blues / Texas-boogie realm. So we played our set, the kid killed it as usual, and PRS came back to the green room to meet him. PRS is asking him all about his background, where he learned to play, what's his favorite music, what he wants to do, commends his playing....and he shakes his hand and leaves the room. As the door closes, the kid looks at the rest of us and goes , "Who was that?" :)

[@tgrules565]

Awesome guitars! Seems like a hard working guy but does come off a bit arrogant at some points. But then again you don't compete with Fender and Gibson by being a pushover.

[@MichaelColombo]

He's just a hilarious genius curmudgeon.

[@dilesmavis1196]

You should see the Sweetwater video where Paul tries to one up Tim Pierce at every turn.

[@juvenromero3715]

Reminds me of Steve Vai. Similar personalities. Not so much arrogant, just really know what they want and how. Nothing wrong with that.

[@mattmarkus4868]

Hmm.. I don't see the arrogance but I'm not finished yet. The first thing I heard him say was correcting Rick about "his" company being 330 people. The exact opposite of arrogant. But even if he is, busting up a duopoly without help from the guys with guns (the feds) has got to give a guy a certain amount of confidence like you mentioned.

[@juvenromero3715]

Matt Markus definitely hit it right on the head. Theres a difference between confidence and arrogance. Someone can be confident and humble, like Paul. He's confident about what he does and has done. But realizes that his company is still relatively small ( because that's how he wants it to be) and doesn't want people to get the wrong idea that he's running a fender-like corporation.

[@sleepymarauder4178]

Paul is a bit of a special person. Really focussed on his goal, loves to share about his passion and a bit odd at times. He is always trying to meet everyone, be kind and listen. It is just that he tends to make not the right remark at times due to what I see as tunnel vision. Though I adore him. He is proud of his brand, his work and his employees. I love his interviews, awkward, insightful and real. What a man.

[@elpupogriton]

Wow! What a PRShole... Rick, a class act.

[@allanmakela3011]

Lots of the forefathers are gone,Leo. etc.but PRS more than rises as a guitar guru,a walking encyclopedia of knowledge,and has the respect of many

[@dominicmauricio2474]

Adding to my comments I’m betting that if I gave PRS 2 grand for a guitar and the finish started falling off they wouldn’t tell me F-off like Fender did. I always thought fender would stand behind their guitars

[@BAMozzy69]

PRS don't - they have excellent customer service and have re-stained and re finished guitars that have faded due to sunlight being on then for months free of charge... I own 4 cores now and have no issue with buying online without ever plugging it in and trying it. I would NEVER buy a Gibson this way for example. PRS guitars are so consistent because they have a lot of quality checking stages and take their time to ensure the product meets their standards...

[@kelvinfunkner]

I loved how he gave credit to his team! Such an epic comment!

[@helugoconache]

PRS somehow reminds me of Larry David

[@curtiseverett1671]

hahahaha that's funny

[@travgpeters1]

your not alone haha

[@abteenz]

Haha pretty pretty pretty pretty true

[@MrJoeydano]

Nice to see Rick ! You are clearly at or above the level of any Musicians in the industry. Saying that PAUL REED SMITH is and should be Happy to do interview with you . Thanks nice for us who only dream of understanding Music like you do .

[@sebbo1496]

"it's like an old t-shirt..." hah, that must be one of the best ways of putting it

[@Sosu217]

I’ve seen other interviews with PRS when he’s come across very differently - to see him at ease, disarmed, and relaxed was a pleasure. Thanks Rick, amazing interview!

[@hendrix5757]

I really don't get any enjoyment from being this "guy" in a comment section, but a capacitor is simply not a "coil" (7:16)! That would apply to an inductor. More specifically, an inductor is a coil and a magnet.

[@cjaquilino]

Nah, pointing that out is a nice break from all the comments acting like because Paul is so important to the guitar world and an innnovator you’re not allowed to dislike aspects of his demeanor.

[@Pb-ij4ip]

I was planning on a PRS as my next “axe” and after watching this my plan has only been solidified! Looking forward to the day I finally get my PRS baritone!