Thinking about adding a PRS SE Mark Tremonti Custom to your collection, or just curious what makes this guitar special? You’re not alone—guitarists everywhere are drawn to its blend of signature sound, stunning looks, and practicality. But how exactly does this model deliver on its promises?
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know, from key features and playability to tips for getting the most out of your PRS SE Mark Tremonti Custom.
Understanding the Paul Reed Smith SE Mark Tremonti Custom
If you’re searching for a versatile, powerful, and eye-catching electric guitar, the Paul Reed Smith SE Mark Tremonti Custom stands out. Designed in collaboration with Mark Tremonti—renowned for his work with Alter Bridge and Creed—this instrument blends classic PRS craftsmanship with features that support both hard rock aggression and nuanced musical expression. Let’s break down what makes the SE Mark Tremonti Custom special, and what you need to know before you dive in.
What Is the PRS SE Mark Tremonti Custom?
The SE Mark Tremonti Custom is a signature model electric guitar produced by Paul Reed Smith (PRS) Guitars in their SE (Student Edition) line. It’s inspired by Mark Tremonti’s playing style and tonal demands, which means it’s ready to handle everything from crisp cleans to searing leads and heavy rhythms. This guitar is favored for its playability, build quality, and distinctive looks, making it a top pick for aspiring professionals and seasoned players alike.
Key Features at a Glance
- Body: Carved maple top with beveled edges, mahogany back
- Neck: Maple, wide thin profile
- Fretboard: Rosewood, with signature bird inlays
- Pickups: Tremonti “S” humbuckers (bridge and neck)
- Controls: Volume/tone for each pickup, three-way toggle selector
- Bridge: PRS-designed tremolo (whammy bar system)
- Finish Options: Popular colors include Charcoal Burst and Grey Black
Why Choose the PRS SE Mark Tremonti Custom?
Whether you’re new to PRS or a seasoned guitarist, several aspects make the SE Mark Tremonti Custom stand out:
1. Exceptional Build Quality
PRS is known for combining state-of-the-art manufacturing with skillful craftsmanship—even in their more affordable SE line. The SE Mark Tremonti Custom features a striking maple veneer top and solid mahogany body, creating a rich, resonant tone with appealing aesthetics. The guitar’s fit and finish often exceed what many would expect at its price point.
2. Comfort and Playability
The wide-thin maple neck makes it easy to navigate fast licks or power chords. Players with smaller hands or those who favor speed will appreciate the profile. The 22-fret rosewood fingerboard is smooth, and the high-quality hardware (tuners, bridge, nut) contributes to reliable tuning stability.
3. Versatile Sound
With a pair of powerful Tremonti “S” humbuckers, you get muscular, articulate tones that suit hard rock and metal. But thanks to responsive tone controls, you can also dial in blues, jazz, or pop tones with ease. The guitar is known for punchy lows, clear highs, and a midrange that cuts through the mix.
4. Attractive Design
Signature PRS bird inlays and elegant finishes (like Charcoal Burst or Grey Black) make the SE Tremonti Custom visually striking on any stage. The contoured body and carefully crafted bevels also enhance comfort.
Step-by-Step: How to Get the Most Out of Your SE Mark Tremonti Custom
Once you have your SE Mark Tremonti Custom in hand, here’s how you can maximize its potential:
1. Setup and Adjustment
- Out of the Box: PRS guitars are often playable right out of the box, but a setup tailored to your style makes a world of difference.
- Check Action and Neck Relief: Adjust the truss rod and bridge height to your preferred string action.
- Intonation: Make sure the guitar is properly intonated for accurate notes up and down the neck.
- Tremolo Bridge Use: The PRS tremolo is smooth and reliable. Make sure it is properly balanced to avoid tuning issues.
2. Exploring Tones
- Experiment with Pickup Combinations: The 3-way selector lets you choose between bridge, neck, or both pickups together. Try different settings for rhythm and lead.
- Tweak the Tone Knobs: Rolling back the tone control can smooth out harsh highs or bring a jazzier quality.
- High-Gain Settings: Engage the bridge pickup for aggressive, articulate rock leads.
3. Maintenance
- String Changes: Change strings regularly—this guitar thrives with quality nickel-wound strings.
- Cleaning: Wipe down the neck, body, and hardware after each session to protect the finish and prevent rust.
- Check Hardware: Periodically tighten the tuner heads and check the bridge screws.
Benefits of Owning a SE Mark Tremonti Custom
- Reliable Gigging Partner: This guitar is robust and can handle the rigors of travel.
- Professional-Grade Tone: Even as a mid-priced instrument, it is suitable for recording and live gigs.
- Signature Style: Stand out with a model celebrated by a world-class guitarist.
- Resale Value: PRS guitars typically maintain their value well in the used market.
Potential Challenges
While overwhelmingly positive, there are a few things to consider:
- Weight: The solid mahogany body can be heavier than some other models.
- Tremolo Tuning: Regular use of the tremolo bridge might require fine-tuning and attention to string stretching.
- Stock Pickups: While the Tremonti “S” pickups are good, some players may want to upgrade for an even more personalized tone.
- Left-Handed Models: As of now, left-handed versions are not always readily available.
Practical Tips for Buyers
If you’re considering purchasing the SE Mark Tremonti Custom, here’s some advice to keep things smooth:
1. Try Before You Buy
If you have a local music store, play one in person. This will give you a feel for the neck profile, weight, and tonal response.
2. Buying Online
- Check the return policy and warranty.
- Look for “Charcoal Burst” or “Grey Black” finishes if appearance is a factor.
- If buying used, ask for detailed photos to check for dings, fret wear, and electronics condition.
- Consider reputable retailers and platforms to avoid any shipping or authenticity issues.
3. Setup and Customization
Don’t shy away from a professional setup after purchase. Personalizing action and intonation can significantly enhance your playing experience.
4. Accessories
- A solid gig bag or hard case (sometimes included) is worth the investment.
- Invest in a comfortable strap, quality cable, and perhaps locking strap buttons for extra security.
Cost and Shipping Considerations
- Pricing: The SE Mark Tremonti Custom typically falls in the mid-range price tier for electric guitars, making it affordable compared to US-built PRS models but with professional performance.
- Shipping Costs: Expect to pay extra for secure shipping if ordering online. Prices vary by location and insurance.
- Import Fees: International buyers should factor in customs duties or VAT which can impact the final cost.
- Used Market: Good deals are often available on the used market, but always confirm authenticity before purchasing.
Summary
The Paul Reed Smith SE Mark Tremonti Custom is a superb choice for guitarists looking for versatile tones, stunning design, and excellent reliability. Its blend of comfort, playability, and iconic PRS features makes it a favorite among rock and metal players, but it’s versatile enough for a variety of genres. With proper setup and care, it will serve you well on stage, in the studio, or as a mainstay in your collection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the PRS SE Mark Tremonti Custom suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s a great choice for ambitious beginners due to its comfortable neck and versatile tones. However, it shines the most in the hands of intermediate or advanced players who can take full advantage of its features.
2. Does the SE Mark Tremonti Custom stay in tune with heavy tremolo use?
The PRS-designed tremolo is reliable, but for heavy use, regular maintenance, proper string stretching, and possibly upgrading to locking tuners are recommended to stay perfectly in tune.
3. Can you upgrade pickups on the SE Mark Tremonti Custom?
Absolutely! While the stock Tremonti “S” pickups are impressive, many players swap them for U.S.-made PRS pickups or other brands for further tonal customization.
4. What styles of music is the SE Mark Tremonti Custom best for?
It excels at hard rock, metal, and heavy blues, but its versatile controls and pickup configuration mean it can cover funk, pop, or even jazz with the right amp settings.
5. Are there significant differences between the SE model and the U.S. Mark Tremonti signature?
The U.S. Core model features even higher-end materials, hardware, and pickups, and is hand-built in the U.S., which reflects in price. The SE Custom delivers much of the feel and tone at a more accessible cost, but discerning players may notice differences in resonance, weight, and finish details.
With its compelling mix of quality, aesthetics, and performance, the PRS SE Mark Tremonti Custom earns its reputation as a top-tier signature guitar without the sky-high price. Happy playing!