PRS Guitars has just released a new limited-run electric guitar with a truly unique backstory. The S2 Special Semi-Hollow Reclaimed features salvaged wood with fascinating histories, from abandoned Brazilian homes to a devastating Category 5 hurricane.
With only 700 units available worldwide, this guitar is a testament to sustainable craftsmanship and the power of a personal connection. Its unique combination of exotic tonewoods makes each instrument one of a kind.
From Hurricane Maria’s Path to a Stunning Guitar Neck
The most compelling story behind the guitar’s construction comes from its neck. Carved from Cuban mahogany, this wood was originally felled by Hurricane Maria, which devastated Puerto Rico in 2017.
PRS senior wood buyer Michael Reid discovered the opportunity after a chance encounter with Carlos Narvaez, a Puerto Rican fan, at Experience PRS 2018. Narvaez mentioned that huge quantities of mahogany trees blown down by the storm were being mulched at FEMA sites.
“Carlos made a comment about the enormous quantities of mahogany trees that had blown down during the hurricane that were now being turned into mulch,” Reid recalls. This conversation led Reid to Puerto Rico, where he connected with a local sawmill salvaging what he calls “Maria wood.” This partnership has provided high-quality mahogany for PRS ever since.
A Century of History in Every Guitar
The rest of the S2 Special Semi-Hollow Reclaimed is just as rich in history.
- Peroba Rosa Top: The guitar’s top is made from peroba rosa, a wood aged between 100 and 150 years. It was salvaged from the exterior paneling of abandoned houses in southern Brazil.
- Guaribu Preto Fretboard: The fretboards are crafted from guaribu preto, a century-old wood sourced from the support beams of old Brazilian farmhouses. Michael Reid notes its “hard and durable” nature, making it ideal for guitar fretboards.
Modern Features, Classic Tone
Beyond its reclaimed materials, the S2 Special Semi-Hollow Reclaimed offers the same versatile features that players love. The guitar features a Pattern Regular neck, a 25” scale length, and a Humbucker/Narrowfield/Humbucker pickup configuration. With 5-way switching and two mini-toggles, players can access a dozen core sounds.
PRS founder Paul Reed Smith emphasizes the importance of these unique materials. “Guitars like this are a great way to highlight some of the interesting, personal stories from his [Michael Reid’s] travels and musical wood understanding,” says Smith.
This isn’t the first time PRS has released a line of reclaimed instruments. A similar run in 2017 sold out “overnight,” so guitar enthusiasts and collectors should act fast.
Price & Availability
The S2 Special Semi-Hollow Reclaimed is available now, limited to 700 units worldwide, and priced at $2699/£2799.
Available at Andertons
Available at Sweetwater
Available at Thomann
More Information
#PRS Guitars #Paul Reed Smith #S2 Special Semi-Hollow Reclaimed
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