Paul Reed Smith celebrates three decades of the Private Stock program with a breathtaking limited run. With only 96 instruments worldwide, collectors are racing to secure serial numbers #1 and #2, available exclusively through Thomann.
The pinnacle of guitar craftsmanship has reached a new milestone. To celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the world-renowned Private Stock program, PRS has unveiled the “Birds of a Feather” Hollowbody I. This isn’t just a musical instrument; it is a masterclass in luthiery, blending exotic tonewoods, innovative electronics, and a visual aesthetic that pushes the boundaries of the “Frostbite” theme.
The Visual Identity: Frostbite Glow & Exotic Woods
The first thing that strikes you about the PRS Private Stock 30th Anniversary “Birds of a Feather” is the luminous Frostbite Glow finish. Designed to create a high-contrast, icy aesthetic, the finish unifies the entire instrument.
The design team, led by Director of Manufacturing Paul Miles, selected a striking combination of deep Gabon ebony and highly figured flamed maple. The “Birds of a Feather” motif isn’t just a name—it refers to the intricate inlay work where the iconic PRS birds appear to “intermingle” across the fretboard, crafted from contrasting woods to create a flocking effect.
For the first time, this aesthetic extends beyond the body. The figured maple neck and fretboard, the headstock veneer, and even the truss rod cover are finished in the Frostbite Glow stain, creating a harmonious, luxurious look from every angle.
Technical Innovation: TCI Pickups on a Hollowbody
While the Private Stock series is often praised for its beauty, the 30th Anniversary model is a sonic powerhouse. This release marks the first time PRS TCI (Tuned Capacitance and Inductance) pickups have been featured on a hollowbody model.
The TCI process allows PRS engineers to fine-tune pickups to exact specifications, ensuring musical balance and extreme clarity.
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The Sound: Expect the “punch and growl” of a traditional humbucker combined with the “air and transparency” usually reserved for single-coils or soapbars.
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The Construction: The body is crafted from select swamp ash, a wood known for its resonant, musical peaks and lightweight feel. Combined with the hollowbody construction, the result is an instrument that breathes with every note.
Exclusive Availability: The “First of the Flock”
With only 96 pieces produced globally, the “Birds of a Feather” is destined to be a centerpiece in the world’s finest guitar collections. In a significant move for European and international buyers, serial numbers #1 and #2 of this limited run are available exclusively at Thomann.
As the first two guitars off the line, these specific instruments hold immense historical value for PRS aficionados.
Also available from these authorized PRS Dealers worldwide.
Thomann has serial numbers #1 and #2
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
How many “Birds of a Feather” guitars were made?
Only 96 units have been produced for worldwide distribution, making this one of the rarest Private Stock runs in recent years.
What makes the TCI pickups different?
TCI stands for Tuned Capacitance and Inductance. It is a proprietary PRS process that allows the pickups to be “tuned” like an instrument to ensure the perfect frequency response, offering unparalleled clarity.
Where can I buy serial numbers #1 and #2?
The first two instruments of this series are available exclusively via Thomann, the world’s largest online music retailer.
What is the price of the PRS 30th Anniversary Private Stock?
The instrument is retailing for approximately $14,333 / £12,790 / €14,499, reflecting its status as a high-end collector’s item.
The Verdict
The PRS Private Stock 30th Anniversary “Birds of a Feather” Hollowbody I is a triumph of modern guitar building. It manages to be ostentatious without being gaudy, and innovative without losing the classic PRS feel. While the price tag is strictly for the elite collector or the professional artist, the sheer level of detail—from the Gabon ebony contrasts to the specific tuning of the TCI pickups—justifies its “holy grail” status.
If you are looking for a piece of guitar history that sounds as ethereal as it looks, this is it.
Final Score: 9.8/10
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Craftsmanship: 10/10
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Tone: 9.7/10
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Collectibility: 10/10
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Value for Money: 9.0/10 (Premium investment)
#PRS Guitars #Private Stock #Birds of a Feather
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