How to Tell If a PRS Guitar Amp Is Real

PRS Guitars is known for its high-quality, handcrafted instruments. Their amps are no exception, offering exceptional tone and features. However, with the increasing popularity of PRS amps, the market has also seen a rise in counterfeit products. It’s crucial to be able to distinguish between a genuine PRS amp and a fake one to ensure you’re investing in a reliable and authentic product.

This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools to identify authentic PRS amps, helping you avoid falling victim to counterfeit products. We’ll explore various aspects of PRS amps, from their serial numbers to their construction and branding, to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding these differences is essential for ensuring a satisfying purchase. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or a first-time buyer, knowing how to spot a genuine PRS amp is crucial for making the right choice. This guide will empower you with the knowledge needed to invest wisely in a PRS amp that meets your musical aspirations.

What Is a PRS Amp?

PRS amps are renowned for their distinctive tone and high-quality craftsmanship. They are designed to deliver a wide range of sounds, from classic clean tones to powerful distortion, making them suitable for various musical genres.

PRS amps are built with premium components and meticulous attention to detail, resulting in exceptional performance and durability. They are a popular choice among professional and amateur musicians alike, known for their versatility and reliability.

These amps have earned a reputation for their impressive headroom, allowing guitarists to achieve a clean, clear sound even at high volumes. Additionally, their robust construction ensures they can withstand the rigors of touring and frequent use.

PRS amps are available in various models, each tailored to specific musical styles and preferences. Some popular models include the MT15, the Sonzera, and the Archon.

How to Tell If a PRS Amp Is Real

Identifying a genuine PRS amp can be challenging, especially with the proliferation of counterfeit products. It’s essential to examine various aspects of the amp to determine its authenticity.

Here are some key pointers to help you distinguish between a real PRS amp and a fake one:

1. Check the Serial Number

All authentic PRS amps have a unique serial number engraved on the back panel. This serial number is a crucial identifier that can help you verify the authenticity of the amp. You can cross-reference the serial number with the PRS website to ensure it matches their records.

If the serial number appears to be scratched, faded, or misaligned, it may be a sign of a counterfeit product. Remember to examine the serial number carefully to determine its authenticity.

2. Examine the Construction and Materials

PRS amps are known for their high-quality construction and premium materials. Authentic PRS amps are built with robust cabinets and top-of-the-line components. Examine the craftsmanship and materials used to determine its authenticity.

For example, the amp’s tolex covering should be smooth and evenly applied. The hardware should be sturdy and free from any imperfections. Look for high-quality knobs, switches, and connectors. If you notice any signs of cheap materials or shoddy craftsmanship, it could be a red flag.

3. Inspect the Branding and Logos

The PRS logo and branding are critical indicators of authenticity. Authentic PRS amps feature a distinctive logo and branding that are consistently applied. Look for the PRS logo on the front panel, the control knobs, and the back panel.

The logo should be clearly printed or engraved, with no signs of blurring or fading. The font used in the branding should be consistent with the official PRS branding. If you see any inconsistencies in the logo or branding, it could be a sign of a counterfeit product.

4. Compare to Authentic Photos and Videos

One helpful technique is to compare the amp you’re considering with authentic photos and videos of PRS amps online. This can help you familiarize yourself with the amp’s appearance, branding, and design elements. Pay attention to details such as the amp’s overall shape, the layout of the controls, and the placement of the logo. If you notice any discrepancies between the amp you’re looking at and the official images, it could be a red flag.

5. Consider the Price

PRS amps are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and premium materials. While prices can vary depending on the model and condition, they generally command a certain price range. If you see a PRS amp offered at a significantly lower price than usual, it’s worth being cautious. Counterfeit products are often sold at discounted prices to attract buyers.

6. Research the Seller

If you’re purchasing a PRS amp from a third-party seller, it’s essential to do your research on the seller’s reputation. Check their reviews, feedback, and ratings from previous customers. If you’re unsure about a seller’s legitimacy, it’s best to err on the side of caution.

7. Request a Certificate of Authenticity

If you’re purchasing a PRS amp from a reputable dealer, they should be able to provide a certificate of authenticity. This certificate serves as documentation that confirms the amp’s authenticity. Requesting a certificate is a prudent measure to ensure you’re acquiring a genuine PRS amp.

What Are Some Common PRS Amp Counterfeits?

Counterfeit PRS amps often mimic the design and features of authentic models, but with inferior components and construction. These fakes may have similar appearances to genuine amps, but upon closer inspection, you’ll notice discrepancies in the materials, craftsmanship, and branding.

Some common counterfeits to watch out for include:

• Amps with misaligned or faded logos
• Amps with poorly constructed cabinets
• Amps with cheap hardware and components
• Amps with serial numbers that don’t match PRS records
• Amps with inaccurate branding or labeling

How to Avoid Buying a Fake PRS Amp

It’s crucial to be vigilant when purchasing a PRS amp, especially if you’re buying from a third-party seller or online marketplace. Here are some tips to help you avoid buying a counterfeit product:

• Purchase from reputable dealers or authorized retailers.
• Thoroughly inspect the amp for any inconsistencies or red flags.
• Compare the amp to official photos and videos of authentic PRS amps.
• Check the serial number and verify it with the PRS website.
• Read reviews and feedback from previous customers.
• If you’re unsure, ask for a certificate of authenticity.

The Importance of Buying an Authentic PRS Amp

Investing in an authentic PRS amp is essential for several reasons. Not only are you supporting a renowned brand with a legacy of quality, but you’re also ensuring you’re getting a reliable and durable product.

Counterfeit amps often use inferior components and construction, which can lead to performance issues, reliability problems, and even safety hazards.

By investing in an authentic PRS amp, you’re not just acquiring a musical instrument but also a valuable investment that will last for years to come.

What is the Best Way to Clean a PRS Amp?

Cleaning your PRS amp regularly is essential to maintain its appearance and protect its longevity. Proper cleaning can help prevent dust, dirt, and grime from accumulating and affecting its performance. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean your PRS amp effectively:

1. Unplug the amp: Always disconnect the amp from the power source before cleaning to prevent electrical hazards.
2. Gather your cleaning supplies: You’ll need a soft, microfiber cloth, a mild cleaning solution (like a solution of distilled water and mild dish soap), a soft-bristled brush, and a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment.
3. Dust the amp: Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust and debris from the amp’s exterior, including the grill cloth and the back panel. Be careful not to use excessive force, as the brush could damage the grill cloth.
4. Clean the amp’s surface: Dampen a soft, microfiber cloth with the cleaning solution and gently wipe down the amp’s surface, including the control panel, knobs, and casing. Avoid getting any moisture inside the amp, as this could damage the internal components.
5. Clean the grill cloth: Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove dirt and debris from the grill cloth. If the grill cloth is heavily soiled, you can soak it in a solution of mild dish soap and water, but make sure to rinse it thoroughly and allow it to air dry completely before reattaching it to the amp.
6. Clean the knobs: Dampen a soft, microfiber cloth with the cleaning solution and gently wipe down the knobs, paying attention to any crevices or grooves. Avoid pressing too hard, as this could damage the knobs.
7. Dry the amp: After cleaning, use a dry, soft, microfiber cloth to thoroughly dry the amp’s surface, ensuring there is no residual moisture.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your PRS amp clean and in optimal condition, ensuring it continues to provide you with years of exceptional performance.

What Are the Different Types of PRS Amps?

PRS offers a diverse range of amps catering to various musical styles and preferences. Their amp lineup encompasses everything from compact practice amps to powerful head and cabinet combinations. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of PRS amps available:

1. Practice Amps:

PRS practice amps are designed for home use or smaller gigs. They are compact, portable, and often feature headphone jacks for silent practice. Some popular practice amps include:

• MT15 Mark III: This versatile practice amp delivers warm clean tones, dynamic overdrive, and impressive headroom. It features a 15-watt power amp, a 12-inch speaker, and a built-in effects loop.
• MT15 Mini: This compact version of the MT15 amp is ideal for home practice and smaller gigs. It features a 6-watt power amp, a 6-inch speaker, and a headphone jack for silent practice.

2. Combo Amps:

PRS combo amps combine the amp and speaker in a single unit, offering a convenient and compact solution for various applications. Here are some notable combo amps:

• Sonzera 20: This versatile combo amp delivers authentic Fender tones and features a 20-watt power amp, a 12-inch speaker, and a built-in tremolo effect.
• Sonzera 594: This hybrid amp blends the best of tube and solid-state technology, providing a rich tone and impressive headroom. It features a 59-watt power amp, a 12-inch speaker, and a built-in effects loop.

3. Head and Cabinet Combinations:

PRS head and cabinet combinations offer a more flexible and powerful solution for larger gigs and studio applications. The head houses the preamp and power amp sections, while the cabinet houses the speakers.

• Archon 100: This high-gain head amp delivers a ferocious sound, with a 100-watt power amp, three channels, and a built-in effects loop.
• Archon 50: This smaller version of the Archon head amp delivers a focused and aggressive tone, with a 50-watt power amp, three channels, and a built-in effects loop.
• Custom 22: This high-end head amp features a 22-watt power amp, two channels, and a classic tube tone. It is designed for high-end recording and performance applications.

What Are the Pros and Cons of a PRS Amp?

PRS amps are highly regarded in the music industry, but as with any amplifier, they have their advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of owning a PRS amp:

Pros:

• High-quality craftsmanship: PRS amps are built with meticulous attention to detail and premium components, ensuring long-lasting performance and durability.
• Versatile tone: PRS amps offer a wide range of sounds, from clean tones to powerful overdrive, making them suitable for various musical genres.
• Impressive headroom: PRS amps are known for their impressive headroom, allowing guitarists to achieve a clean, clear sound even at high volumes.
• Durable construction: PRS amps are built to withstand the rigors of touring and frequent use.
• Excellent reliability: PRS amps are known for their reliability, minimizing the risk of breakdowns during performances or recordings.

Cons:

• Higher price point: PRS amps are generally priced higher than comparable amps from other brands due to their high-quality construction and premium components.
• Limited availability: While PRS amps are widely available, some models may have limited stock due to their popularity and handcrafted nature.

What Are the Best PRS Amps for Different Musical Genres?

PRS amps are versatile and can be used for a wide range of musical genres. However, some models are better suited for specific genres due to their tonal characteristics and features. Here’s a guide to the best PRS amps for different musical genres:

1. Rock and Metal:

PRS amps like the Archon 100 and Archon 50 are excellent choices for rock and metal genres. Their high-gain capabilities and aggressive tone are perfect for creating heavy and distorted sounds.

2. Blues and Jazz:

PRS amps like the Sonzera 20 and Sonzera 594 are well-suited for blues and jazz genres. Their warm clean tones and dynamic overdrive capabilities are ideal for playing blues licks and smooth jazz chords.

3. Country and Americana:

PRS amps like the MT15 Mark III and MT15 Mini are good options for country and Americana genres. Their versatile tones and impressive headroom allow you to achieve a variety of clean and overdriven sounds, perfect for playing country twang and Americana ballads.

4. Pop and Funk:

PRS amps like the Sonzera 20 and Sonzera 594 can be used for pop and funk genres. Their versatility and responsiveness allow you to achieve a wide range of tones, from clean and crisp to warm and funky.

What is the Difference Between a PRS Amp and Other Guitar Amps?

PRS amps are known for their high-quality craftsmanship, versatile tone, and impressive headroom. They differ from other guitar amps in several key aspects:

• Handcrafted Construction: PRS amps are meticulously handcrafted with premium components and attention to detail, setting them apart from mass-produced amps.
• Distinctive Tone: PRS amps have a unique and highly regarded tone, characterized by their warmth, clarity, and responsiveness.
• Wide Range of Models: PRS offers a diverse range of amps catering to various musical styles and preferences, encompassing everything from compact practice amps to powerful head and cabinet combinations.

PRS Amp FAQs

What is the best PRS amp for beginners?

For beginners, the PRS MT15 Mark III or MT15 Mini are excellent choices. They are versatile, affordable, and easy to use, providing a great platform for learning and experimenting with different sounds.

What is the best PRS amp for recording?

For recording, the PRS Custom 22 is a popular choice among professional musicians. Its high-end features and classic tube tone are ideal for capturing a rich and detailed sound.

How do I connect my PRS amp to my computer?

You can connect your PRS amp to your computer using an audio interface. An audio interface is an external sound card that allows you to record and play back audio from your computer to your amp. Some popular audio interfaces include the Focusrite Scarlett Solo and the Universal Audio Apollo Twin.

What are some good PRS amp accessories?

Some good PRS amp accessories include:

• PRS guitar cable: A high-quality guitar cable is essential for connecting your guitar to your amp.
• PRS amp cover: An amp cover protects your amp from dust, scratches, and other damage.
• PRS foot switch: A foot switch allows you to control the amp’s channels, effects, and other features without having to reach for the amp’s controls.
• PRS speaker cables: If you’re using a separate cabinet, you’ll need speaker cables to connect the amp head to the cabinet.

Where can I find a PRS amp?

PRS amps can be purchased from authorized retailers, online marketplaces, and music stores. It’s important to purchase from a reputable source to ensure you’re getting a genuine amp.

How do I know if a PRS amp is worth the price?

PRS amps are known for their high-quality craftsmanship, versatile tone, and impressive headroom. While they are generally priced higher than comparable amps from other brands, they are a worthwhile investment for musicians who value quality, performance, and durability.

How do I choose the right PRS amp for my needs?

To choose the right PRS amp for your needs, consider the following factors:

• Musical style: The type of music you play will influence the type of amp you need.
• Playing environment: The size and acoustics of the space where you’ll be playing will affect the power output and speaker size of the amp you choose.
• Budget: PRS amps range in price, so it’s essential to set a budget before shopping.

Once you’ve considered these factors, you can research PRS amps that align with your needs and test them out to see which one sounds best for you.

PRS Amp Summary Table

Amp Model	Power Output	Features	Musical Genres
MT15 Mark III	15 watts	Clean and Overdrive Channels, Effects Loop	Rock, Blues, Country, Jazz
MT15 Mini	6 watts	Clean Channel, Headphone Jack	Practice, Home Use
Sonzera 20	20 watts	Clean and Overdrive Channels, Tremolo Effect	Blues, Jazz, Pop, Funk
Sonzera 594	59 watts	Hybrid Tube and Solid-State Design, Effects Loop	Blues, Jazz, Rock
Archon 100	100 watts	High-Gain Channels, Effects Loop	Rock, Metal
Archon 50	50 watts	High-Gain Channels, Effects Loop	Rock, Metal
Custom 22	22 watts	Two Channels, Classic Tube Tone	Recording, Studio Use