Buying a new core online

[detuned]

I played the custom 24 core and love it so much I decided I deserve to own one in this lifetime... But given the scarcity of new custom core models in-store locally, I’m thinking about making an online purchase. I’ve been told that the build quality is remarkably consistent, so I’m thinking I’d be satisfied with one I order. While I’m flexible about slight variations in the finish, I do have a specific color in mind, along with the expectation of excellent tone and playability.

Has anyone purchased a new core model online, and if so, were you happy with your experience? Relatedly, some online retailers offer a setup service but is that really needed on a brand spankin' new PRS core model?

 

[Birdsofprey]

Set up for the masses and/or factory settings are just that and while that may fit most I am most pleased when a dealer I buy from new or used reaches out to me with what my preferred setup and string gauge/ brand is. What I like you may not so I really appreciate the attention to detail provided by these types of dealers. Furthermore every PRS I bought online used or new from a dealer has come to me perfect! And in every case they reached out to me asking my setup preferences. Hope this helps. Btw the Custom 24 is and always will be my fav PRS model.

 

[dmatthews]

I've bought used core online for over 10 years, and NEVER been disappointed.

 

[SinSir]

I wouldn't think twice about buying Core online new or used. Buy with confidence!

 

[gush]

I bought my 2011 cu24 off ebay. I had to replace saddles right off the bat, kept breaking A and D strings.

Other than that I was pretty happy.

Cu24s had a lot of different pickups over the years plus switching options so it will be important to know what you want before you buy.

My 2011 has 5909s and my 1986 has stamped T and B pickups.

They are both great and different.

One thing though.....trem on my 86 is as good as a floyd. Still has factory setup. Never been touched.

 

[Bogner]

Since No Two Guitars Are Ever Identical I Would Find One I Liked And Then Call The Dealer For Some Further Specific Feedback Regarding That Particular Guitar And Also Discuss The Return Policy, Etc.

If You Are Going To Buy A Guitar Blind, PRS USA Guitars Are A Great Way To Go. If It Doesn't Work For You Then Simply Return It And Try Again.

I Have Been Pretty Happy Over The Years On My PRS Purchases I Have Made That Were Not In Person. Were Any Of The Guitars In My Experience Duds? No... Were All The Guitars I Bought Over The Top Excellent? Again, No...Some Were. I Have Never Bought A Bad Guitar In Person And All Of Them Have Been Exceptional.

I Say Find One You Like and Go For It!

Good Luck!

 

[RC Mike]

Used or new, I’ve been very happy with all of my US-made PRS purchases.

 

[Greywolf]

I've purchased all 13 of my Core and above online , very happy with all

 

[Andrew Paul]

I would say PRS is very consistent with their builds I’ve bought many online and in store.
Enjoy!

 

[Headset]

80% of my PRS have been purchased online (8/10) and they’ve all been keepers.

 

[bodia]

I’ve purchased more PRS on line, new and used, than I’d care to admit. Never had a bad experience. I’d also recommend finding a dealer that you can work with if you’re looking for something new. There are several great PRS dealers that aren’t one of the “big box” places.

 

[ruger9]

Bought my DGT online (see avatar). As long as it's from a reputable retailer... Wildwood, Wilcutt's, Dave's, etc. You'll be fine. Mine came from Wildwood. I would even do Sweetwater, because they have detailed pics of the actual guitar you're buying. I would probably not buy from MF.

 

[vhalen50]

I trust sweetwater the most out of all of them. They can be pushy and sometimes be a little odd if you return something but they have the most transparency as to what you are buying. Ive bought guitars off reverb and its just like ebay but a little bit better. Ive had good experiences and ive had bad.

 

[Andrew Paul]

I’ve purchased more PRS on line, new and used, than I’d care to admit.

You and me both

 

[Prina]

PRS starts with great quality and quality control to start with. Then deal reputable dealers, and or great return policies, as mentioned above and the odds become pretty good. I bought all but one of mine online and had good experiences in every case.

 

[Gtrbldr]

I think you almos always will have a GOOD guitar, probably a great guitar. Only way to distinguish between great and exceptional (to you) is to buy it at a real store.

But chances of a "dud" are marginal at worst, most likely to be unlikely. So you"ll be good

 

[tubes10s]

I currently have 4 core PRS and all were purchased online. Three of those were purchased lightly used. All are excellent! I don’t think you’ll have any issue buying a core PRS online.

 

[watelessness]

OMG. welcome to the place that enables PRS purchases! I've bought at least a couple dozen online from dealers, Reverb, and Ebay.