PRS USA Paul Reed Smith Custom 24 10 top "Cherry Sunburst + Rosewood" (1997)
Specs:
- Body: Mahogany with a beautifully carved maple 10 top
- Finish: Classic "Cherry Sunburst"
- Neck: Mahogany with a Wide Thin profile
- Fretboard: Rosewood with classic PRS bird inlays
- Scale Length: 25”
- Pickups: PRS HFS Treble and Vintage Bass humbuckers
- Bridge: PRS Tremolo
- Electronics: 5-way rotary switch, master volume and tone controls
- Hardware: Nickel
- Case: Original PRS hard case included
Personal Reflection:
This 1997 PRS Custom 24 in "Cherry Sunburst" is an absolute gem, and it's rare to find one from this era in such near-mint condition. It’s clear that this guitar has been babied its entire life, showing minimal signs of use for its age, which is always exciting to see. The vibrant Cherry Sunburst finish still pops beautifully, highlighting the carved maple top, and the craftsmanship of these early PRS models really shines through.
I’ve always rated these late '90s PRS guitars highly, especially the Custom 24 models. They have that unmistakable PRS feel—smooth, fast, and incredibly versatile. The combination of the HFS Treble and Vintage Bass pickups offers a wide tonal palette, with enough power for heavier genres while maintaining clarity for cleaner tones. These guitars really can handle anything you throw at them, and the 5-way rotary switch provides an even wider range of tones to play with.
Ben and I often discuss how these early PRS models are becoming increasingly collectible. They represent a significant period in PRS’s history, and finding one in this kind of condition is becoming more and more rare. As Ben says, "These '90s PRS guitars are not only great players but are destined to become future collectibles—especially when they’re kept this clean."
Condition Report:
This Custom 24 is in near-mint condition, with only the slightest signs of handling, remarkable for a guitar over 25 years old. The finish remains glossy and vibrant, and the frets and hardware are in exceptional shape. It’s evident this guitar has been extremely well cared for, making it a standout piece for any player or collector. With its clean condition and vintage appeal, it’s a perfect example of why these early PRS models are so highly regarded and sought after.