What is the PRS DGT Semi-Hollow?
Celebrating over 40 years in the industry, PRS Guitars continues to impress with its meticulously crafted instruments, each housed in a stylish case that brings a smile to any guitarist’s face.
The PRS design is a modern classic,characterized by its graceful double-cutaway shape,stunning carved maple top,and the iconic bird inlays adorning the fingerboard.
Reflecting on my first encounter with a PRS in the late ’80s, it was a beacon of quality during a challenging time for electric guitars, reminding us of the artistry that goes into crafting a true musical instrument.
Fast forward to today, and while the exterior may look familiar, the internal components have undergone meaningful enhancements to optimize playability, functionality, and sound quality.
Comparing a vintage PRS Custom from the mid-’80s to a contemporary model from 2026 reveals a remarkable evolution in tone and feel. Throughout the years,PRS has remained committed to excellence,constantly seeking ways to refine their instruments for the modern musician.
David Grissom, a long-time PRS artist, has played a pivotal role in this journey. Since the late ’80s, he has contributed to the development of the McCarty Model, which debuted in 1994, offering a vintage-inspired twist to the PRS sound.
His signature model, the DGT (David Grissom Tremolo), has been a staple since its introduction in 2007, leading to the creation of an all-mahogany Standard version and the recent full-production DGT Semi-Hollow model, following a limited edition release in late 2024.
Available in a Charcoal gloss nitro finish among other options, the new single f-hole model is priced comparably to the solidbody DGT. The DGT remains the moast affordable maple-topped Core model in the 2026 lineup,especially if you opt for the simpler moon inlays. Upgrading to bird inlays adds approximately $320 to the price.
It’s worth noting that the DGT is the onyl Core PRS model still available with moon inlays, a nod to the brand’s heritage dating back to its inception in the mid-’80s. The third variant features bird inlays, a 10-Top maple cap, and hybrid hardware, priced at around $5,540.
Specifications
- PRICE: Starting at $4,420 (includes case)
- ORIGIN: USA
- TYPE: Double-cutaway,carved-top solidbody electric
- BODY: 1-piece mahogany with a figured maple top
- NECK: 1-piece mahogany,DGT profile,glued-in
- SCALE LENGTH: 635mm (25″)
- NUT/WIDTH: brass-infused,friction-reducing material/42.4mm
- FINGERBOARD: Rosewood, moon inlays, 254mm (10″) radius
- FRETS: 22, jumbo
- HARDWARE: PRS Gen II vibrato, PRS Phase III locking tuners (with brass posts and faux bone buttons)
- STRING SPACING, BRIDGE: 52.5mm
- ELECTRICS: PRS DGT Treble and Bass covered humbuckers, 3-way toggle pickup selector switch, individual volume controls, and master tone (with coil-split pull-switch)
- WEIGHT (kg/lb): 3.12/6.86
- OPTIONS: The DGT starts at $4,420 with moon inlays. With bird inlays, it’s $4,740; with bird inlays plus 10 Top/hybrid hardware, it’s $5,540
- RANGE OPTIONS: The other semi-hollow 2026 Core model is the Special Semi-hollow ($5,060)
- LEFT-HANDERS: Not available
- FINISHES: Charcoal (as reviewed), Dark Cherry Sunburst, Tiger Eye, Faded Blue Jean, McCarty Sunburst, and McCarty Tobacco Sunburst
- CONTACT: PRS Guitars
Build Quality, playability, and Tone
The DGT builds upon the McCarty foundation, which was distinct from the Custom model upon its introduction in 1994.This guitar maintains a 635mm (25-inch) scale length with 22 frets, featuring a slightly thicker mahogany back, covered humbuckers (a first for PRS), and a toggle-switch pickup selector with individual volume and master tone controls (the latter includes a pull-switch for coil-splitting).
Notably, both 2026 models retain the original-style Gen II vibrato, rather than the newer III version that was briefly available on the DGT.
David Grissom’s journey with PRS began in 1991, leading to the creation of his signature model after years of playing various McCarty guitars. His model features a unique neck shape, blending elements of the Wide-Fat and Regular profiles, designed to replicate the feel of his favourite guitars.
The DGT includes the PRS vibrato system, and its control layout consists of individual volume knobs for each pickup (the bridge pickup’s control is closest) and a master tone with a pull-switch for simultaneous coil-splitting. This model also introduced partial coil-splits, a feature that has as been adopted across many PRS guitars.
Additionally, the DGT features larger ’jumbo’ frets based on the dunlop 6100 gauge, and it is typically strung with 0.011-gauge strings, including a plain third string. The signature DGT pickups were meticulously crafted after evaluating over 40 prototypes, thanks to the expertise of tech Ed Reynolds and his pickup-swapping test guitar.
The current DGT models, both solid and semi-hollow, are built on this foundational design, with numerous refinements made since 2007. Notably, the full nitro-gloss finish is a significant upgrade from the original DGT, which only featured a nitro top coat over an acrylic base.
Additionally, both 2026 models utilize the original Gen II vibrato rather than the newer III version that was briefly available on the DGT. The nut has also transitioned from bone to a brass-infused low-friction material,aligning with PRS’s Core standards.
As with previous models, the DGT lacks fingerboard binding and headstock facing, distinguishing it from many other Core models. The pickups and control circuitry have also evolved over time (see Under The Hood,right).
Regarding the semi-hollow aspect, the bass side and the area behind the bridge are hollowed out, with both the mahogany back and part of the maple top being machined away. The body thickness remains at 52mm in the center (compared to 49mm for the Custom), and the overall weight is slightly reduced, with our review model weighing in at a comfortable 3.12kg (6.86lb).
Finding a USA-made solidbody PRS guitar that exceeds 3.6kg (8lb) is quite uncommon, with most models averaging around 3.4kg (7.5lb) based on our observations.
The lightweight design of the DGT is instantly appealing.According to PRS specifications,the neck of the DGT is slightly narrower at the nut compared to the Pattern profile,measuring the same as the Pattern Regular at 42.06mm; however, our sample is marginally wider. At the top fret, it measures 56.4mm,aligning perfectly with our measurements.
In terms of depth, the neck feels substantial, with a first-fret depth matching that of the Pattern and Pattern Regular at 21.4mm, and by the 12th fret, it remains consistent with the Pattern at 24.2mm; again, our model is slightly deeper.
When comparing the neck to an older Pattern profile, the differences are minimal, though the upper positions exhibit a slightly less pronounced shoulder, giving it a subtly more V-shaped feel.
The most significant distinctions lie in the larger, taller frets (measured at 2.74mm wide by 1.4mm high) and the heavier 0.011 gauge strings. For those accustomed to lighter gauges, this may require some adjustment, but David Grissom won’t mind if you opt for PRS’s standard 10s.
Defining the sound characteristics of the semi-hollow construction can be challenging. David describes it as having a “warmer top-end, slightly less bass than the solidbody, and more controlled feedback,” which is a testament to his experience.
unplugged, the guitar resonates with a vibrant tone, showcasing pronounced highs and a lively response, producing more volume than typical solidbody guitars. It feels and sounds incredibly dynamic.
When plugged into a clean amplifier in coil-split mode, the tonal quality mirrors its unplugged character.Adding a delay effect evokes the classic sound reminiscent of The Edge, with the coil-splits offering a musicality that is rich and textured. Transitioning back to humbucker mode with a bit of crunchy gain brings out that signature Grissom sound, providing ample enjoyment.
Even without adjusting the controls, the balance between the bridge and neck pickups is impressive, with the bridge delivering a nice bite and the neck providing a deep, plummy tone. It avoids sounding overly hot, yet ther’s a fullness that makes our reference solidbody guitars sound somewhat radiant and thin in comparison.
Reducing the volume slightly reveals the guitar’s subtlety and versatility, softening the high-end without sacrificing clarity, making it ideal for classic rock rhythms.
In the mixed-pickup setting, the controls feel almost interactive, with minor adjustments yielding noticeable tonal changes. The way these controls function,especially with the coil-splits,is crucial to the guitar’s appeal.
With just a couple of light overdrive pedals, the guitar shines, reminiscent of a classic Les Paul but with greater definition. In this context, the single-coil tones provide a refreshing texture, offering a brighter sound that works beautifully for strumming and arpeggiated patterns, particularly with a slight volume reduction. Jangle? Absolutely.
In terms of tonal versatility and playability, the DGT is incredibly responsive. It remains stable and in tune, whether using the vibrato or not. The craftsmanship is remarkable, providing a vintage feel that makes it hard to put down. You’ll find yourself wanting to play it endlessly.
Final Thoughts
Overall Rating: ★★★★★
David Grissom’s dedication to his craft is evident in the countless hours he has invested in becoming a better player. Having been a PRS enthusiast for over 15 years before the launch of his signature model in 2007, he has collaborated with PRS to refine and enhance a guitar that was already remarkable nearly two decades ago.
The DGT has always been positioned as the working musician’s PRS, embodying a vintage-inspired, rootsy aesthetic, and this semi-hollow variant amplifies that ethos. It’s lightweight, incredibly responsive, and excels in both high-gain and clean settings, where the coil-splits offer usable single-coil tones.
Guitar World’s Conclusion: This guitar pays homage to classic designs while introducing a new dimension that enhances both lower-volume clean styles and powerful feedback at stage volumes. while no guitar can do it all, the DGT Semi-Hollow comes impressively close.
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It’s uncommon to encounter a USA-made solidbody PRS guitar that weighs more than 3.6kg (8lb), with most models averaging around 3.4kg (7.5lb) based on our findings.
The lightweight nature of the DGT is immediately appealing. According to PRS specifications, the neck of the DGT is slightly narrower at the nut compared to the Pattern profile, matching the Pattern Regular at 42.06mm; however, our model is marginally wider. at the top fret, it measures 56.4mm, which aligns perfectly with our measurements.
In terms of depth, the neck feels substantial, with a first-fret depth that matches the Pattern and Pattern Regular at 21.4mm, and by the 12th fret, it remains consistent with the Pattern at 24.2mm; again, our model is slightly deeper.
When comparing the neck to an older Pattern profile,the differences are minimal,though the upper positions exhibit a slightly less pronounced shoulder,giving it a subtly more V-shaped feel.
The most significant distinctions lie in the larger, taller frets (measured at 2.74mm wide by 1.4mm high) and the heavier 0.011 gauge strings. For those accustomed to lighter gauges, this may require some adjustment, but David Grissom won’t mind if you opt for PRS’s standard 10s.
defining the sound characteristics of the semi-hollow construction can be challenging. David describes it as having a “warmer top-end, slightly less bass than the solidbody, and more controlled feedback,” which is a testament to his experience.
unplugged, the guitar resonates with a vibrant tone, showcasing pronounced highs and a lively response, producing more volume than typical solidbody guitars. It feels and sounds incredibly dynamic.
When plugged into a clean amplifier in coil-split mode, the tonal quality mirrors its unplugged character. Adding a delay effect evokes the classic sound reminiscent of The Edge, with the coil-splits offering a musicality that is rich and textured. Transitioning back to humbucker mode with a bit of crunchy gain brings out that signature Grissom sound, providing ample enjoyment.
Even without adjusting the controls, the balance between the bridge and neck pickups is impressive, with the bridge delivering a nice bite and the neck providing a deep, plummy tone. It avoids sounding overly hot,yet there’s a fullness that makes our reference solidbody guitars sound somewhat bright and thin in comparison.
Reducing the volume slightly reveals the guitar’s subtlety and versatility,softening the high-end without sacrificing clarity,making it ideal for classic rock rhythms.
In the mixed-pickup setting, the controls feel almost interactive, with minor adjustments yielding noticeable tonal changes. The way these controls function, especially with the coil-splits, is crucial to the guitar’s appeal.
With just a couple of light overdrive pedals,the guitar shines,reminiscent of a classic Les Paul but with greater definition. In this context, the single-coil tones provide a refreshing texture, offering a brighter sound that works beautifully for strumming and arpeggiated patterns, particularly with a slight volume reduction. Jangle? Absolutely.
In terms of tonal versatility and playability, the DGT is incredibly responsive. it remains stable and in tune, whether using the vibrato or not. The craftsmanship is exceptional, providing a vintage feel that makes it hard to put down. You’ll find yourself wanting to play it endlessly.
Final Thoughts
Overall Rating: ★★★★★
David Grissom’s dedication to his craft is evident in the countless hours he has invested in becoming a better player. Having been a PRS enthusiast for over 15 years before the launch of his signature model in 2007, he has collaborated with PRS to refine and enhance a guitar that was already remarkable nearly two decades ago.
The DGT has always been positioned as the working musician’s PRS, embodying a vintage-inspired, rootsy aesthetic, and this semi-hollow variant amplifies that ethos.It’s lightweight, incredibly responsive, and excels in both high-gain and clean settings, where the coil-splits offer usable single-coil tones.
Guitar World’s Conclusion: This guitar pays homage to classic designs while introducing a new dimension that enhances both lower-volume clean styles and powerful feedback at stage volumes. While no guitar can do it all, the DGT Semi-Hollow comes impressively close.
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