Christopher Colombo
This instrument is simply sensational. I sought out my old guitar teacher from my youth to get a recommendation on a great acoustic…The kind you wait 30 years to finally get. He had sold me my first acoustic when I was a teen, (which I still have) and I always trust his judgement as its always about the music, and the instrument, not the sale or the brand. He rec’d the Prestige Eclipse, and when I saw the Koa Koa I fell in love with it. I heard his and his son’s on some recordings they made (Sonsup…check em out on iTunes if you want a listen at the Prestige Eclipse in action). When he shipped it to me, and I got my hands on it, I was elated. The tone (acoustic) is warm with bell like high’s. I am excited to see how the mid/low develop as the wood ages, but am already happy with the tone out of the case. Amplified (LR Baggs Anthem) through a Fender Acoustic 100 it fills my house with amazing tone and depth. Playability is excellent, low action, no extraneous noise, and I really appreciate the taper to the top edge in the cutaway when I play the upper frets. I honestly didn’t know how much difference it would make, but it really enhances the playability of the entire fretboard. And last (but not least) it is FREAKIN GORGEOUS. The expert workmanship is evident at first glance, and holds up under scrutiny. Well Done Prestige!
Kane Leone
I own two Prestige guitars, they are on par with
the best instrument makers in the world. Incredible guitars made by truly professional & dedicated craftsman.
I own vintage instruments, been playing for over 40 years, so many guitar builders but only a few hit the standard Prestige has established.
Bravo & Stay True to /your Vision
– Kane
Gord Davies
This guitar is amazing in every way.
Before you purchase your next Les Paul I highly recommend you try the “Cory Churko Signature” model first.
The guys at Prestige Guitars are first rate to deal with and are exceptional at what they do.
Quality woods with top of the line components and very light when playing for long sessions make this guitar rock!
Thanks Prestige!
Brian Morales
Well-it’s been one year since my wife bought my 50th Birthday present. By far this is one of the best, if not the best, Guitar I have ever played. I also must say-my wife spoke to the guys at the shop and asked if they could add a custom touch-they engraved a Happy Birthday message on the back cover plate for me- with no extra cost! Amazing customer service and I still can’t get over the quality for the price. For my 51st Bday I paired it up with a Blackstar HT-5R Amp!! I can’t stop thinking about her…gotta go, time to play some more! Thank you!!
Andrew Muller
I saw this guitar on the site of the dealer in The Netherlands, and just the looks of it draw me to try one of these out. And yesssss, just a beautiful guitar and when you hold it, it feels like you’re holding a guitar twice the money…First I played it unplugged and then I already new I would buy it. The SD Pearly gates sounded as expected, and I knew the first thing I would do was to swap these humbuckers, because I needed a more transparent sound, but then again: just the feel of this guitar, the looks, and the playability was a reason for me to cherish this one…Outstanding guitar!
Thanks Prestige guitars!!
Jeff Curran
I just finished spending the last few hours playing my DC Coupe Deuce. These guitars are amazing. I have many Gibsons and Fenders. Most of them are top of the line and Custom and Limited Editions. I have been playing since 1972 and have owned top of the line boutique guitars from BC Rich, and Jackson, and others. My DC Coupe Deuce amazes me. The TV Jones pups are the best. The neck is spot on. It weighs a ton, but the weight is a big part of the tone. I simply love this guitar.
Lance Mattes
I was motivated to check out Prestige by a Twitter post from Rich Ward complimenting one of their models. Knowing he is a huge gear head and is synonymous with killer tone, his opinion pulls some respect.
With that said, I cannot possibly compliment these guys enough. From the correspondence via email to delivery I was dealt with by total professionals. I wanted some features from the Rex Brown model and they did everything possible to accommodate (can you say feel like a custom?).
This guitar is mindblowing out of the box. PERIOD. Initial view is of a quilt top better than any manufacturer I have purchased. Fit and finish gives the one wielding this gem the feeling of a total custom shop piece. The neck is smooth, fast and feels perfect. The ebony fingerboard and inlays are high quality and beg to be played. The cut out on the back of the body and the heel are really quite comfortable and do actually bring a totally different feel and playability that wasn’t expected – pleasant surprise.
I have shared pictures of this top with many guitar aficionados, and all are amazed that this company can compete with the big names, let alone smoke them when you compare relative pricing points.
I can’t possibly say enough about this guitar or the positive experience I had in dealing with Prestige. Shipping is lightning fast, and the packaging was better than any distributor I have ever purchased from – go figure – they actually CARE about the product leaving their shop and that pride shows. Gibson better get their crap together, because these guys will not be under the radar for long.
If your thinking about it, stop the procrastinating and pull the trigger! It will be the best new guitar purchase you will make, trust me I own countless high end LP’s and they are collecting dust right now….
Follow Up……
We all know the honeymoon phase with a new guitar, ya know, overlooking some things because ya just simply love it. Well, a month later I take my new Heritage to my luthier for a once over and lower the action a bit.
His reaction…”This is the best out of the box setup guitar you have ever brought me”. He then continues to compliment luthier stuff like neck relief, string heights and wood quality. All things, although over my head, reassured me that this is one quality instrument. This is a guy that hand builds guitars at boutique levels, so I think he knows whats up!
Once dropping a 32nd or so off the original setup, this things impresses even more. No fret buzz or string muting anywhere with a super low action, making it all that much faster. And the top is mindblowing…good luck trying not to just stare at it now and again.
I once again stand by my original assessment, this guitar is a truly impressive piece. I enjoy playing it so much, it was over a month before I touched one of my LP Customs to realize I needed the action lowered a bit. With that done…..back to the case with you Customs and I may see you in a month or longer this time around.
Prestige Power!!!
Ryan Clarkson
I bought this guitar just over a month ago and I am still amazed every time I play it. I have been playing Les Pauls since I learned to play but since I bought this guitar I have not touched any of my other guitars. The tone I get from this guitar is magnificent. And! This guitar never goes out of tune! I can’t wait to buy my next Prestige. Seriously…try this guitar and I guarantee you won’t be able to put it down.
Justin Boyce
I took a chance buying the Heritage Standard online, not even playing one in person before. I did a ton of research beforehand and I do not regret the purchase one bit.
I tried out a 2017 Gibson Les Paul Standard that was around $1600 or so. I thought it was great at the time, but the price was a little over my budget. I also tested a higher end Les Paul, one that was around $2500 also. Couldn’t tell a huge difference, other than the price.
I am so glad I didn’t buy one or a lower end Epiphone. I got looking for Canadian guitar companies and stumbled across the Prestige on eBay. It really got my attention. The price was sort in between and it was a low quantity item that didn’t look mass produced.
I never saw a Prestige in a shop before, and that alone makes me put extra value on it. The best guitars are always more rare and hard to find, not mass produced and collecting dust.
Anyway, this Heritage Standard is one best guitars I have ever played by far. The neck is absolutely phenomenal. A lot of guys say you can’t shred well on a guitar like this, but you can play this thing easily all day. Compared to my bolt-on maple neck guitars, this thing is seriously a wonderful playing guitar. It was a little heavy, but with a 4″ strap all that problem goes away quick.
I’m not gonna comment on the sound because everyone else has, but if you want a guitar that easily matches or exceeds anything Gibson is pumping out right now, you’ll go very far to find anything better than the Prestige. The price you pay you get one fine playing neck, easily one of the best ever and that to me is the most important thing on any guitar.
Tomas Rodriguez
Outstanding guitar and easily the best guitar I have ever owned. I love the tone and the infinite sustain, the guitar just feels and looks like quality, and everyone that sees it are stunned by its looks. I am already planning my next purchase and you can bet it will be a Prestige; you can’t beat the quality and price. I live in the US, Albuquerque New Mexico to be exact and the guitar was at my door steep in two days just as promised, awesome customer service!
Marc Bracci
Great attention to detail and a perfect finish, real comfortable neck and flawless fret work, the set up out of the box was ready to go, no tweaks required. nice warm acoustic tone and then I plugged in….and wild crazy love at first strum, the SD stacked P90’s are outstanding and the pots are super responsive, there are a lot of guitars in this price range, but this instrument sits alone at the top of the class. I also own a Heritage Standard SB QM and been very happy with it I’m glad I took the plunge and purchased my 2nd Prestige both are instruments of very high quality ….
Scotty Saints
Just dropping a line to say that this is the best guitar I have played. It’s been through 20 shows since I bought it and it has held up better than my ’91 Les Paul Standard. It gets compliments constantly and has stellar tone! Hopefully your sales will be skyrocketing in New England! Also, I purchased the guitar because of how quickly you all had answered my questions in my previous email inquiries. Great Guitars + Great Company multiplied by Great Customer Service = One Happy Guy! Gibson who?
Sincerely,
Scotty Saints
Port City Saints (Portland, Maine)
Chris Taylor
Have not been able to put this down. The quality of the guitar is impeccable. I would recommend this guitar to anyone. The impressive tone is noticed by all within ear shot so far. Very excited push it’s limits, if it has any…
Charles Peckham
Love this guitar. The build quality, tone, sustain, playability and balance is as good as it gets. I’ve owned and presently own fine guitars and this is no exception. This equals or surpasses guitars costing twice as much. New it has a tone and resonance of a guitar played for many years. Very open sound whioh easily responds to the players touch. I can’t imagine how good this sound in years to come. The most versatile acoustic guitar I’ve heard which covers it all. Fingerpicking, strumming, jazz, country, rock, blues etc. I can’t recommend enough.
Ron Summerhill
Having played guitar for over 46 years, and having learned to play on a 1952 Gibson Les Paul, I never thought I would ever find a guitar to replace the Gibson Les Paul. I personally own several Les Pauls, not the cheaper studio models, yet have to say the Prestige has become my favorite guitar. I, too, took a chance and ordered one without ever having seen or played it, and have had owned it for about 5 years now. The fit and finish are stunning right out of the case! The craftsmanship is superb, and the tones are amazing. I have modified mine by removing the black trim pieces and replaced it with cream. In addition, I have added the new Floyd Rose tremlo system designed to sit on the guitar rather than routed into the body. Needless to say, this combinatino is unmatched in my arsenal of electrics. Finally, not to my surprise, I recently took it to a local guitar shop, a large chain music store, for some minor adjustments. The counter staff offered me much more than I paid for the guitar right on the spot. Customers were coming over to see what I had and were all complimentary and inquisitive as to where to find one. They were more amazed when I told them I had to order it online. I wish Arizona had a retailer who was willing to carry this extremely impressive work of art to compete with the Gibsons and Epiphones. Needless to say, I cannot say enough about this instrument.
John Fuller
Just want to make this short and sweet. I just bought a Prestige Eclipse acoustic. This guitar is unreal! Best guitar I have ever played. It is the mahogany/spruce, cutaway model. I can’t thank you enough and I enjoy the case as well. Very nice and comfortable. Thanks again and look forward to buying another one someday.
A very satisfied picker, John Fuller
Denis Bastas
Flawless craftsmanship, perfect weight and balance, stays tuned, breathtaking looks, best value for money sums it up…excellent warm and full sound ideal for blues, rock and not only with the classic SD humbucker combination that can’t miss out…can you find a con?
You can try but it ain’t easy…if we exagerate in strictness it would only be the weird epi-like headstock shape…it’s a keeper no doubt…
Mark Williams
I’ve been playing the heck out of my Heritage Standard Quilt since I got it. What an amazing guitar for the money, heck it would be a great buy if it was double the money. And it came with a cool case. I own 4 Les Pauls and I put it right there the best of them, for less then a third of what the best one cost. However, I like to tinker. I love the JB/59 combo, but I already have a guitar with those in it, so I found a nice used set of Duncan Whole Lotta Humbuckers and dropped them in. Sonic Heaven, like it someone said lets make a guitar, with the best wood, that these will sound amazingly fat in! Even after the cost of the pickups, it was still less then my last Les Paul Studio. My band starts playing back out this month on the 22nd and this will be the guitar that I’m using.
Jamie Thomson
Hey Fellow Guitar Fans,
I currently have purchased 5 Prestige models! They all have a very unique voice and cover a lot of musical territory.I can’t honestly say which guitar I favour the most.The quality of workmanship and pickup selection is amazing .The setup right off the shelf is perfect,almost to easy to play! Lol I have left my PRS and Gibson guitars to other guitar owners!! Thanks Prestige!!
Keith Ward
I took a chance and ordered this guitar without ever having played a Prestige guitar. Now, that I’ve had it a month, I can confidently say that it is the best guitar value on the market anywhere. Hands down! Everything about it reeks quality. Balance, finish, great Duncan pickups, body and neck binding, Grover tuners. It’s all there. I’ve been practicing speed licks through a clean tube amp so I can better evaluate my techniques. But, this guitar is so responsive, resonant and has so much sustain that it’s almost hard to evaluate my techniques with this guitar even through a clean amp. Kick in effects through your amp and be prepared for a slice of guitar heaven. All I can say is, “If you can buy this guitar for about one-third of a Gibson Les Paul Standard, why would you even consider the Gibson?” I have about 15 Gibsons and I don’t see myself buying another Gibson so long as there is a comparable prestige model. Side by side, these guitars measure up to guitars costing five times as much.
Mike Avery
I bought a new Heritage Standard a year ago and continue to be very impressed with your work. I own a couple Gibson Les Pauls that cost much, much more and every time I take out the Prestige, I enjoy its sound and playability more than my previously much cherished Gibsons! I just thought you should know that. Thanks and keep up the fine, fine work!!
Keith Ward
I took a chance and ordered this guitar without ever having played a Prestige guitar. Now, that I’ve had it a month, I can confidently say that it is the best guitar value on the market anywhere. Hands down! Everything about it reeks quality. Balance, finish, great Duncan pickups, body and neck binding, Grover tuners. It’s all there. I’ve been practicing speed licks through a clean tube amp so I can better evaluate my techniques. But, this guitar is so responsive, resonant and has so much sustain that it’s almost hard to evaluate my techniques with this guitar even through a clean amp. Kick in effects through your amp and be prepared for a slice of guitar heaven. All I can say is, “If you can buy this guitar for about one-third of a Gibson Les Paul Standard, why would you even consider the Gibson?” I have about 15 Gibsons and I don’t see myself buying another Gibson so long as there is a comparable prestige model. Side by side, these guitars measure up to guitars costing five times as much.
Mike Avery
I bought a new Heritage Standard a year ago and continue to be very impressed with your work. I own a couple Gibson Les Pauls that cost much, much more and every time I take out the Prestige, I enjoy its sound and playability more than my previously much cherished Gibsons! I just thought you should know that. Thanks and keep up the fine, fine work!!
Bob Defosse
Holy Moley ! I just got my very first Prestige LP. This is one of the finest guitars I have ever held in my appreciative hands and I have owned and played HUNDREDS over my long career as a player. You folks have something special here and I hope and pray you continue and grow your business model. The wood used on mine, the craftsmanship, the set up, electronics, the parts you use, all are so much better than the latest Gibs…and priced perfectly as well. I am so impressed I am gushing and intend to be an unpaid ambassador for Prestige. Holy cowwwwwww !!!!
Paul Alisauskas
For some reason, there are few (i.e. one) reviews of this model. I don’t know why, but I want to give the folks at Prestige a commendation for a job (really) well done with this guitar.
I’ve owned mine for almost 2 years now, so my review is not of the “still in the infatuation” stage of a new guitar. That said, I AM still infatuated.
My particular guitar might be a bit of a mutant because, unlike the ‘official’ description on the website and in the reviews, it’s a ‘true’ hollow body (i.e. NO centre block). There is an internal mounting ‘island’ supporting the bridge posts and saddle assembly, but is otherwise completely hollow across the entire width of the guitar. I don’t know if this makes it sound much different than the semi-hollow version.
I’ve had NO feedback problems whatsoever. In fact, I have to work at inducing feedback. On the plus side of the equation, this guitar has a HUGE sound that seemingly only hollow guitars can provide.
My only modifications to the guitar were: 1) Upping the string gauge to .11 – .52; and 2) Installing a roller saddle. Of course, string gauge is a purely personal preference. As for the ‘roller’, I think any guitar with a Bigsby performs better with less restriction at the saddle, but you may or may not need to do that to suit yourself – it’s a cheap mod, anyway. The workmanship on this guitar is first rate. Everything ‘fits’ and works just right.
It’s hard to accurately describe just how MANY things a hollow/archtop design brings to the table in terms of richness of tone. Not to take anything away from solid bodies (I have a pile of them), but the same shimmer, body and ‘bell’ quality of tone just ain’t the same.
Prestige has created a beautiful, functional and eminently useful guitar that can be had for literally a FRACTION of the cost of similar models (if you can FIND anything truly ‘similar’) from the big names. Play one and try and figure out why you’d spend a pile more money for (probably) a lot less….
Gary Mitchell
I wrote a review on this guitar, years back. Prestige is making a lot more models now. But I want everyone to know I own a Fender American Telecaster, A custom Stratacaster and a mint USA Peavey Strat. They still are sitting in my music room collecting dust. The only time they get used if someone comes over and wants to play guitar. My Prestige is my baby and you have to be very very special to get to play it. I have been playing 40 plus years played a lot of guitars, I have own some real Les Pauls. And this guitar still inspires me to play it everyday. It looks as good as the day I got it. I am amazed how well its made, I am amazed of the price of these guitars and the quality. Prestige I have found is building its reputation of its product. Anyway after the few years I have had my guitar it still rocks as good as the day I got it. And I am amazed by the way it stays in tune. I have left it in the case and been gone for a week come back take out, and play the thing. So do yourself a favor check them out wonderful guitar it really is.
Jeff Buttles
There isn’t much out there on this guitar, this made me nervous. l got a sweet deal on my elite, and took a chance. WOW! What a guitar, this ranks up there as one of the best guitars l’ve owned. Besides my ’35 D28 this is a guitar I will always own. When I decide to buy a semi hollow guitar I know it’ll be a Prestige!
If you are looking for an affordable guitar, yet demand quality… try one of these and thank me later.
Rand Hyden
I have been playing guitar for over fifty years. I own Gibson, Fender, Ibanze, Vox, Dobro, National, Gretsch, Epiphone and a Gallagher. (It is a minor addiction and I can deal with it.) My Prestige is far superior to any of my other guitars. the action is smooth and slick. The Maple body with the Seymour Duncan pickups provide the cleanest tones I have ever heard. The Bigbys stays in tune no matter what I throw at it.
I cannot believe you sell them so cheap. Prestige, the crack cocaine of guitars.
Dennis Fox
FIVE stars! Gold standard quality. I love my new guitar. The first guitar I ever liked the bridge pickup sound a lot. I’ve had dozens good guitars but these guitars are beautys.
Dan Deveau
Well, color me surprised. While testing guitars that cost three times as much I spotted this guitar sitting across the shop. I picked it up, was amazed and bought it on the spot. It’s perfect. I got it home, plugged it in through my board and was even more impressed. The fit and finish of this guitar are impeccable. Intonation, perfect. The bigsby actually stays in tune and the tone goes on for days. I was actually a little surprised that standing in front of a 100W Marshall plexi turned up to “11” with tons of drive, feedback was deliciously controllable. I’m a very happy musician. Thanks guys.
Don Kushman
Like many of the reviewers, I have played (and have) some of the major brands, Fender, Gibson, Gretsch et al, and this guitar ranks right up there. Very good workmanship and beautiful design, first time I pulled this baby out at a festival, the sound man said “what a great-looking guitar, what is it?”. Because I mainly play acoustic-electric and don’t like to carry around a lot of equipment, I tried the Prestige through my Fender Acoustasonic 150 and was able to get a good rhythm/lead tone. Patched through a good PA system via the balanced XLR output, it’s all I need. Would like to see this model available without the Bigsby system.
Ernesto Guerrero
Hello there folks! I have owned my Prestige since 2010. It is my baby my princess my everything. Its sound its amazing. I used to play it with a fender amp and loved it; recently I changed to a Marshall and its sound improved, more power more everything. Great guitar, never heard of it before, but when I received it, it was like love first sight. This guitar has everything I need and I truly recommend it. Big A+ for this Canadian baby! Great job Prestige I truly satisfied customer here! Thanks!
Matt Bovee
Well, tone quest may be over for me. Love the look, feel, playability, and tones in all pickup settings from this guitar. The range of warmth, cleans, edge, etc. that can come out of this guitar, and the tones of the SD ’59 and JB are just what I’ve been looking for all these years. I’m really conservative w/a new guitar and will leave the pickup and pickguard plastic on for ages until I’m sure it’s a “keeper”. Played this guitar once and loved it. Played it twice and took the plastic off. Done. ‘Tain’t goin’ anywhere. That’s my subjective opinion. Let me give you another.
I take lessons from someone who has been playing for over 20 years (was a “punk” when it was first “punk”, overseas), who’s played professionally, done studio engineering, session work, teaching…you name it. The guy knows his #$%! I brought the guitar with me on the last lesson. When I opened the case he immediately asked if he could play it. After 2 minutes with it he said “Damn. Now I need to figure out what to sell so I can buy one of these!”
Fantastic guitar. Color me happy. Just need to get enough playing time now so it tells me what its name is… 😉
Trey Taylor
I have had this guitar now for about 4 months and find it hard to put it down! It is kind of a Standard/Elite hybrid in that it had the gold hardware instead of the chrome on the black background. It looks stunning. I was considering a Les Paul that my local shop had just acquired but decided on this one after seeing it and comparing the two. It cost 40% as much as the Les Paul and sounds incredible. A huge upgrade over my previous Cort M600. It sounds good through my practice Peavey Backstage and regular Classic 30 tube amp. I play a lot of Sabbath and harder rock and the tone and sustain never leave me wanting more. The clean tones are also super warm and crisp. I am an intermediate player and feel that I have just scratched the surface of what this guitar is capable of. Simply awesome!
Randal Gabriesheski
Awesome Made guitar, easy to play, great sound, reasonably priced, worth every penny, I will be buying an acoustic soon. Thanks Guys, Keep up the great work. R.G. Collierville ,TN
Greg Lobitz
Just wanted to share with you a few thoughts on this guitar you sold me, the NYS standard.
This guitar has a beautiful finish, fantastic tone from the p-90’s, the feel of the neck and body when i play either sitting or standing is just right, the fretboard seems to be exactly right in width, and gives me a smile every time I play it. I have had it out to a few jams and some of my friends have had a chance to play it. Those who have rave about its sound, playability, and looks! Those that haven’t played it but only admired it, have done just that, admired it!!!
So, i have been propelled faster towards being a better guitarist and musician because this guitar makes me play more and longer. Thanks for building such a great guitar. I tell everyone, who cares, to check out Prestige Guitars for themselves and that your customer care is outstanding!! May you have greater success in the years ahead.
Sincerely,
Greg Lobitz
Tom Thorpe
I have been playing the guitar on and off for over 30 years and really just jam with my buddies and do the odd gigs for fun. I have collected some nice guitars over the years so I am able to compare it against some great guitars. Gibson’s, Fenders, Larrivee and a Tokia Strat that I loved. This Heritage Elite Kicks Ass over any of them, The finish is amazing and I feel it has increased my playing to a new level of confidence on stage. I will be getting rid of some old stuff making room for another one day. Thanks Prestige for making a great guitar. Canadian to boot.
Charles Butler-Grace
Hi there… Seasons Greetings and best wishes for the coming New Year… I wanted to give you folks and anyone considering purchasing a Prestige instrument a bit of an update. I was truly fortunate to acquire a Prestige guitar about 5 months ago. The individual who sold me the instrument must be kicking himself everytime he plays, with, whatever he replaced this incredible guitar. As my previous post indicated, I had been playing this wonderful, beautifully crafted, “Standard QB” through a well known Canadian produced 40 watt tube amp. During the interim I have acquired a 50 watt amp from the same manufacturer. I am reticent to mention the manufacturers name only because I do not know if it is appropriate to do so in this forum. If any one cares to know please forward my email as I am eager to share that information, I simply do not intend to be inappropriate or take away from the intent of this “review”. I believe that the “marriage” of these two fantastic products are a perfect match. I will say this much… of the three tube amps I own (all from the same manufacturer) the two larger wattage amps are, in my opinion, modeled after well known amp makers.
In my opinion, the 40 watt amp seems to be modeled after an American company and the 50 watt amp seems clearly modeled on a well known British product. I have been looking (read listening) for a specific tone and wanting a capability from my instrument(s) since I became serious about music. Since I cannot claim to be, in the strictest terms of what constitutes, a “professional, it might be that my opinion will not carry much weight. Yet I shall offer it anyway…
The pallet of tones available to me with this combination of amplifier and the Prestige guitar are truly incredible… I’ve been “learning” to play for decades. The challenges of learning to be a great guitar player are not limited to technique. The right gear is an imperative. I have used a myriad of gear over the years in an attempt to “reproduce” the tone I was “hearing” in my head in a never ending quest to achieve “sonic brilliance”. The daisychain of ever increasing complexity took away from… PLAYING.
To be able to simply plug this fantastic Prestige guitar into my amplifier and play, achieving that unlimited “sonic” brilliance and tone that I have sought for so long without the, cumbersome, daisychain of F/X… is inspiring as well as an absolute relief. Finally I can focus on “playing” without being distracted and preoccupied by the need to educate myself with all the extraneous periferals of excess that, in the end, not only seem to but in reality do, take away from the experience of expressing and sharing the music that I have been “attempting”, up untill now.
During my research and ultimate acquistion of this truly remarkable guitar I discovered that there were not many (in fact I found only one) used Prestige instruments for sale. I do not know if this is because “Prestige” guitars are not yet well known or if they are so desirable that those fortunate individuals that own one wish to keep it a secret. I say this as over the years when I wished to acquire a particular product one of the indicators as to “it’s” dependability and desirability was, often and typicaly, the lack of availablity. I suspect that the “availability” I refer to is due, in part, of “Prestige Guitars” not yet being extensively visible in the marketplace (your website is substantial… or… you have not been in the marketplace of a duration long enough to “attract” attention… or… enthusiasts have not been nearly vocal enough… “Ahem… Let me say loud and clear… Prestige guitars are (just in case you folk have not noticed) on the cusp of earning and becoming a well deserved “boutique” designate. With congratulations, Gentlemen, your success is but a mere formality…
Charles Butler-Grace :grateful owner of a Prestige guitar
Jake Penton
I’m in love with this guitar. Mine has the quilted maple top. For many years now my main electric guitar has been my American Standard Strat. However, about six months ago I decided to acquire a shorter scale-length guitar with humbuckers. Some time ago I started to experience some hand problems from playing my heavily strung Strat, so this seemed like a good “excuse” to buy a new axe.
I haunted the local guitar stores and tried probably a hundred different instruments. A week ago I stumbled onto an online video review of the Heritage. Impressed, I found a nearby dealer and went to check it out.
The Heritage captured my heart after about 30 seconds of playing it. I like it better than anything I tried during my search, regardless of price. The one I purchased just whispered “take me home, I’m yours”.
I am now enjoying finding the sweet tone possibilities with the instrument. I play mostly clean or with very slight overdrive. I play through Line 6 Pod Farm on my DAW, and also through an old modded Mesa Boogie amp. I suppose it is unusual to play humbuckers through a Mesa with (mostly) a clean tone, but the combination really really sings.
The only tweak I needed to do was to change strings to my favourite brand. Otherwise it is perfectly set up. I feel very blessed to have discovered Prestige guitars.
Charles Butler-Grace
Recently I began a search for a new electric guitar. During the course of my research I came across “Prestige” guitars. I was immediately impressed by the reveiws and began trying to find a used instrument. Given that I have a limited budget, I could not justify the cost of a new one. I have managed to find and purchased a used Heritage Standard. It is my pleasure to report that this is, without question, the finest instrument I have ever played. I consider myself an articulate individual but frankly I am at a loss for words in expressing how, unequivocally, incredible this instrument is. Prior to purchasing this guitar I had not had the opportunity to play a “Prestige” instrument. Now that I have had the priviledge, I can say enthusiastically and without hesitation this instrument is definately worth the price. This instrument clearly blows the competition away. I am not a novice player. I have been learning to play for well over 40 years. I have been playing this guitar though a 40 watt tube amp. The sustain and tone that the instrument produces without F/X of any kind other than what the amp provides are incredible. I recomend this guitar to anyone looking to upgrade their instrument. The value and quality are evident and I am certain you will be very pleased that you chose “Prestige”.
Dave Christensen
My Prestige 10th A arrived on Monday this week. Upon opening the box and case I was wowed. It looked better than the pics I had received from Prestige. The AA flame top is incredible. The guitar is beautiful and flawlessly put together. The set up of the guitar was a bit off however. Fortunately I know what I’m doing when it comes to doing set ups so it didn’t bother me one bit. As long as frets are level and the neck is responsive to adjustments I’m good and that was certainly the case. Excellent fret work.
The minor issues I found were the tailstop was screwed all the way down causing the strings to rest on the back of the bridge. This also made the string tension too tight. Also found the action was set at 3/64 on the bass side, way too low and caused significant buzzing. No big deal though in either case. Easy fix. I took a measurement of neck relief and set it to about .008 and that felt best to me. I reset the action to 4.75/64th at the 15th on the low E and 3.75/64th on the high E. Intonnated and played acoustically, perfect! Nice resonance and feel with no significant buzzers.
Next I took some measurements on the PUPs and set to pretty much std for a LesPaul. Plugged in, cranked it up and played. Excellent tone. A couple of minor tweaks to the pup poles and the sound is dialed in sweet. The 59 neck pup has a real nice sparkle to it, what a vintage tone! The bridge pup is loaded with mids, maybe a tad harsh on the treble but pup height adjustments helped solve for that. Overall the tone is killer and agressive on the bridge pup. I play through a Marshall and Custom Granger head, classic rock, I easily attain nearly perfect “Slash” tone with this guitar.
The guitar is fairly heavy, which I like. Weighs nearly as much as my LP. It feels great on the shoulder and in my hands. This guitar plays beautifully and quite similarly to my 25 year old LesPaul Standard. I can’t honestly say I prefer this to my LesPaul but it’s going to become my #2 guitar for certain…a close second.
Gibson LP Standard is $2200+ these days vs half that or less for a 10th A Prestige and it’s hard to argue not buying a Prestige. If you have 2 grand to spend, get the LP, you won’t regret it but if you don’t have that kind of cash then this is a real WINNER. Top Notch, you simply can’t go wrong. Get it set up by a patient pro. I actually spent 3 days on the set up letting it settle in and doing minor tweaks to get it to what I would call perfect for me. It’s smooth as silk!
Very happy indeed with my decision to get a Prestige sight unseen. Great value! Highly Recommended!
Craig Davis
Where to start? This is my THIRD Prestige guitar in less than 45 days. I have sold/traded 4 guitars(PRS SE, Ibanez, and …GIbson Les Pauls) for my Prestiges. I started with the Classic, moved on to the Heritage Hollow and now the Anniversary. I have a friend with much more experience than me,(and I’ve played for 20 years), who is a professional, and he said the Anniversary blew away his $5,000 Les Paul Custom. What more is there to be said?
Ron Lewis
Let’s just get this out of the way, first: This is a beautiful guitar. Acoustically, the notes ring out, fine and clear. Very nice. Plug it in, and the tone is wonderful. These are high quality appointments on this guitar – as good as anything you would find on something costing up to and beyond – four times as much. Really, it didn’t take too much thought to understand that it’s a very good idea to get one of these before the price starts moving up. And up. And up. I own two Carvins, A G&L, and this one rounds out my “good” guitars. I don’t believe in spending lavishly on guitars for their name – and I won’t mention those names. I’ve been playing for more than thirty years. I know a good guitar and a great deal. This is both. I love this guitar. If you buy one, you’ll love yours.
Craig Davis
I stumbled upon Prestige after reading all the reviews. I have 2 PRS Se Models, an EVH Wolfgang Special, 2 Les Paul Studios and assorted other guitars(Hamer, Fender, Stenberger). The fit, finish, and playability on this guitar stand up to any and all of my guitars, if not exceed all of them. I am convinced if there was a different name on the headstock, i.e. Gibson, this would list for what my LP Studio Fireburst did($2999.00!) and sell for about half that. I guess the true test, is that nearly every time I go to pick up a guitar, and they are all on stands next to each other, I pick up the Prestige. Outstanding value and just a beautiful guitar.
Marco Bracci
The rich quality finish and appointments on this guitar are absolutely great, and that isn’t the best part. A quick tuning and few set up tweaks was all this fine instrument needed after removing it from it’s shipping wrap. The playability is great the frets are even and true. Once plugged in though is where this guitar really starts to shine. I play through a Traynor 40 Watt and the Duncans are so insanely warm and full that it’s almost criminal, and the sustain just keeps on going for miles. Anybody thinking of buying any type of Les Paul would be well advised to save a few of their hard earned dollars and invest in a Prestige Heritage Standard. This guitar out Les Paul’s the Les Paul if ya know what I mean.
Rory Papania
I haven’t been able to put this guitar down since I laid hands on it! It’s really alive – even louder than fully-hollow thinline Gretsches I’ve played. Has great tone even unplugged, the neck is really comfortable and fast – great for chording as well as playing higher up the neck – and it sustains forever. The pots and switches all operate smoothly and noiselessly, and the pickups make for fantastic mellow, jazzy tones or overdriven grit. Not to mention the finish, which is a flawless beautiful reddish sunburst. I have to say this is one of the best guitars I’ve ever picked up, regardless of price. I played a $2500 Heritage (from the Gibson Kalamazoo factory) a few weeks ago and this guitar blows it out of the water.
Keith Post
I had been wanting a higher end Les Paul for a long time, Of course I thought that if you spend more you get more. I stumbled across Prestige doing an internet search and then Did some deep studying of reviews on Harmony Central etc. So I begged my wife(not really beg she endulges me) and I found this Orange Flame top on Ebay. I was like ok lets try worse case scenario I sell it if its not up to par. Well I got it and I could not be happier. It plays as good if not better (honestly) than the $3,000.00 plus cousin from Tennesse. The neck is a perfect 60’s radius. The guitar itself is very well balanced and very well built. I went over it with a fine tooth comb and found no flaws in the finish/binding etc. Im extremlely impressed and am thankful for finding such a high quality guitar for under $1.000. I will admit though I’m not a fan of SD pickups so I have since installed my favorite winders in them. I’m not sure if I can advertise for him so email me if curious. Other than that!
Cudos and I’ll probably not look to the south for a guitar unless I find an unpassable deal. Prestige far surpasses most companies all around. Ty
Dave Marrocco
I’ve been playing guitar for over 35 years and have yet to own a guitar that plays as good as this one. I’ve owned guitars that are nearly double the price of my Prestige and they can’t come close to the playability of my Heritage Elite. The quality and craftsmanship are second to none. We have over 30 guitars in our studio(Gibsons,Fenders,Ibanez,music man, and Frankinsteins) and this is my main guitar. I will be getting another. Now if Prestige can make an explorer model, I’d be in heaven.
John K.
Hello, I just bought a Heritage Standard QM. I’ve been a player for 35 years. I own a bunch of Carvin Guitars as well as Gibson’s and Fenders. I’ve always been a fan of the “Underdog” guitars. Made with love, not a mass produced, overpriced, so called “High End guitar. This “High End” guitar fits the bill and I can’t put it down. It just feels good and, after a minor tweak here and there, plays like butter. I’m proud to be a “Prestige” guitar player now and just wanted to tell you how I feel. Thanks and Keep Up The Fine Work, John K. Gee Bow, NH USA
Mark Moring
INCREDIBLE GUITAR! All I had to do was Tune it! It was perfectly intonated right out of the box. I wanted a good guitar for less than $1000.00. This is the best guitar I have ever owned hands down. I put down a 1970 Goldtop in favor of my Prestige Heritage and I won’t pick that up again. I have been a DiMarzio guy all my life but I am not a staunch SD guy. Great Job Prestige!
Glen Peacock
I have had the Heritage Deluxe for about a month. I have that rare feeling that I received much more value than I paid for and the least I could do for both Prestige guitars and Acemate Music is to submit a user review. Firstly, it is a scarey thing to purchase a guitar without being able to try it out first, but my expectations were far exceeded. I knew about the quality parts used, but when the guitar arrived the build and finish quality was exceptional. Once I tuned the guitar there were no set-up issues. Action and intonation is perfect and no fret buzz. The metallic charcoal finish is quite spectacular and I really didn’t expect it from the pictures on my computer screen before I made the purchase plunge. And finally the thing that matters most to us-the SOUND! This guitar offers articulate clean tone with mid volume settings and incedible sustain at all settings. Bring the volume up to unleash the awesome growl and crunch these pick-ups deliver. Great versatility of impressive tones. If you’re hoping for Slash or AC/DC type tone you have the answer. I’ve gotten awesome tones from my 6 watt tube amp, my 45 watt tube amp and a 100 watt solid state. For me this is like getting the 350 horse power Mustang that I have wanted since I was a kid.
Joel Quillen
I’ve been playing for nearly 15 years. I have owned many high dollar guitars including Gibson and several Carvin custom shop models. I was looking for a guitar that would handle rock & blues but would produce a fat enough sound to handle jazz. I purchased the heritage hollow and let me tell you, it is the best sounding guitar that I ever owned. I highly recommend Prestige guitars.
Danny Hooley
This is truly the best guitar I have ever owned. The build quality is amazing for the price, and the sound is incredible — one friend who owns a $2,500 Gretsch told me he envied by Prestige NYS!
The Duncan P90s are the crunchiest I’ve ever heard, and the guitar can handle anything I want to play — jazz, blues, country, rockabilly, funk, rock, even punk rock — BELIEVE it. Did I mention the guitar is also beautiful to look at?
I’m in love. I literally need to hold this guitar everyday, or I get depressed. I’ve bonded for life with my Prestige.
Simon Courtney-Johnson
Two years ago I wanted to take up and study jazz and big band guitar in more depth and needed a suitable instrument. The Gibson ES models were way out of my price range so I researched alternatives and eventually came across the NYS and bought it without even trying it! I just knew that it would be a top quality instrument and I just could not believe the low price. It is an extremely well crafted guitar, just beautiful and sounds and plays lovely. Prestige are well worth considering as an alternative against all the rest big names. I would love to own and play one of their gorgeous les pauls!