PRS Paul Reed Smith SE Bernie Marsden Electric Guitar (with Gig Bag)
Built to the Whitesnake guitarist's specs, the Bernie Marsden SE is a 22-fret single cut loaded with PRS 245 pickups and a bound, bird-inlaid fretboard.
Overall User Ratings (based on 2 ratings)
Submitted June 30, 2015 by M Campbell in San Diego, CA
"PRS Paul Reed Smith SE Bernie Marsden - Believe the hype!"
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Believe the hype, kids, this guitar is truly amazing! While researching the PRS SE Bernie Marsden, I was hard pressed to find a single bad review. Still, I was slightly skeptical it could be as good as all the hype. Nonetheless, I decided to give her a shot. Let me tell you, it's all that and then some.
Sound
It did not take long to dial in the right sounds on this instrument. The neck pick up has the warmth I desire and the bridge pick up has just enough brightness without being too "shrill" or "tinny".
Being based on Bernie Marsden own 59' Gibson Les Paul, "The Beast", this model is particularly good for blues, blues based rock and classic rock tones. Granted, these stock pick ups are not as hot as my own Les Paul's 57 pick ups, they are able to get a similar tone by simply turning the guitar's volume knob up a click or so more.
Many of the reviews I've read from other Bernie owners state the have or will swap out the pick ups. I intend on keeping mine stock. Bernie Marsden himself has stated that he actually prefers the stock pick ups on this model (which he actually plays, both on stage and in the studio...perhaps the best endorsement for this guitar!).
Features
This guitar immediately felt like an old friend in my hands. I was also surprised by how light weight she was by comparison to my Les Paul. Though very similar in size and shape to a Les Paul, and both being made of solid mahogany/maple, the SE Bernie Marsden is closer in weight to my Stratocaster.
The neck is advertised as being wide, I found it to be almost identical to my Les Paul's neck width. Also, like a Les Paul, this is a 24.5 neck, so again, it has that familiar feel for those of us used to Les Pauls.
Other reviewers I have read also talked of replacing the tuning machines. I do not see an issue with them on my guitar. Perhaps it is because they are based on classic "green tulip" style tuning keys (i.e., plastic), but mine really hold their tune incredibly well. The only mod I could see being done would be to eventually replace the nut with a more natural bone but, that could be said about almost any standard (and a few custom) models.
I also have to point out the very cool wrap around bridge. This is very similar to a lot of the cool vintage Gibsons, as well as a few of their current models. Along with the great tone woods, I think it's what adds to the amazing sustain you get from the "Lil' Beast".
Ease of Use
Out of the box, perfect set up. No, really...I kid you not! No fret buzz, no loose anything.
I've never bonded with a guitar as quickly as I have with this one. She's incredibly comfortable to play. The body contours are not just sexy, they add to the playing comfort.
Quality
Perfection! I have often read of the superior build quality of Paul Reed Smith guitars, even on their less expensive SE lines. This is indeed the case with my PRS SE Bernie Marsden. Having the super glossy black finish, there is no way to hide any physical flaws on the body or binding. She is as smooth as silk.
Value
At it's regular advertised price, I'd say this guitar is a real bargain. With zZounds price match/beat policy, I got her for a song. zZounds has been my number one "go to" music supply dealer for the last few years now. Though on a major budget, working with zZounds has allowed me to fulfill my musical aspirations.
As for this and other PRS SE models, I am now looking forward to my next PRS guitar. Their SE line is affordable for us "working poor" musicians but, with a build quality that will rival the best of them. I am very glad I took a chance on this model.
Manufacturer Support
Prior to and again after my purchase, I had written to the folks at Paul Reed Smith with questions about this model. A representative from there contacted me each time with the answers I was seeking AND he was very courteous. He had also imparted to me a story about how he meet Bernie Marsden on a few occasions during the formulation of this signature model. This seems to be a truly good company, kids.
The Wow Factor
Just look at her. Sexy as hell, baby! That slick, glossy black finish with the vintage cream binding and matching cream pick up rings, the cool wrap around bridge, dark amber knobs, green "tulip style" tuners and lovely bird inlays to boot!
Oh yeah...then you plug her in...WOW!
Musical Background:
Musician/Songwriter
Musical Style:
All of the above.
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Submitted November 30, 2015 by John B. Adins in Breese, IL
""You Get What You Pay For""
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After reading many reviews of the Bernie Marsden as well as viewing Bernie himself performing clinics with his signature PRS, I was very curious about this particular guitar, however, assumed the price was indicative of the quality of the build. Not being a U.S. Made instrument I assumed again "You Get What You Pay For". I own a PRS SC 58, plays like a dream, so I am familiar with the quality an playability expected from this name brand. I eventually had the opportunity to play this guitar when our other guitarist brought one in to rehearsal. WOW, immediately the weight of it was as if I picked up my LP 58 Gold Top to include the neck profile. The neck felt perfect (for me) thick. The pickups being stock sounded amazing, I played through a Marshall Bluesbreaker, cleans were crisp and with some added gain the crunch was strong and powerful. The controls are very responsive. I ordered one from Zzsounds the very next day and received it two days later. When I opened it up the flame on this guitar jumped out of the gig bag!!! Straight away it played perfect even after the road trip. The action was great, what I am saying is the setup was on spot. If ur looking for an awesome go to guitar for gigging and don't have the $ to purchase another name brand for several thousand $, RUN, don't walk order you a Bernie Marsden now through Zzsounds or your nearest dealer. Some times "You Get What You Pay For" but in this case you get a thousand(s) $ guitar for MUCH MUCH less!!!!! You will not be disappointed. I have two areas that I would address 1) the plastic nut will eventually be replaced 2) finding a case to protect this investment proves to be a little challenging. I may replace the pickups later but for now they Rock this beauty. Buy one you won't regret it..
Musical Background:
25 yrs. Gibson, Fender, Paul Reed Smith, Heritage, Taylor, Martin, Guild. Gigging musician.
Musical Style:
Christian, Blues, Southern Rockck
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