What Are We Reviewing?
In this milestone 40th Anniversary year, the only new artist signature model introduced is Herman’s Chleo, which diverges substantially from conventional PRS designs with its floyd Rose tremolo and Fishman Fluence active pickups.
Though, the legacy of other artists continues, as the year wraps up with David Grissom receiving a new ‘Standard’ version of his SE DGT, alongside Mark Lettieri’s HH variant of his Fiore, first launched in 2021.
Let’s dive into these exciting new models!
Fiore HH Satin
Mark Lettieri,known for his extraordinary skills,opts for practicality over flashiness with his new HH model. Pulling it from its gig bag, it exudes a ’working musician’ vibe.
While the original Fiore HSS model impressed us, it was slightly heavier than expected for its style, despite its swamp ash body being typically lightweight. The good news is that this new model weighs in at a mere 3.2kg (7.04lb), making it incredibly portable.
Similar to how John Mayer’s Silver Sky reimagined the Stratocaster, the Fiore draws inspiration from classic hot-rodded super-Strats, featuring a longer Fender scale length and 22 frets.Its sleek horns and PRS’s signature treble cutaway scoop enhance its aesthetic appeal.
The satin nitro sunflower finish is delicately applied, allowing the ash’s natural grain to shine through. The color appears slightly muted compared to glossier versions, contributing to a vintage, well-loved aesthetic, and the body is crafted from two pieces.
Similar to other PRS bolt-on models, this guitar features a nearly invisible headstock splice, with the maple neck remaining bright and free of amber tinting.
Another notable change is the transition from a maple fingerboard in the HSS model to a rich Indian rosewood here; the open bird inlays are elegant and understated compared to the more extravagant inlays found on many PRS guitars.
Each pickup tone control is paired with a master volume and features a pull-switch that toggles between standard series and parallel wiring.
The hardware mirrors that of the original Fiore model, equipped with vintage-style top-locking tuners and a two-post vibrato system, similar to those found on the SE Silver Sky. The posts utilize 4.96mm bolts that screw into collars embedded in the body, rather than traditional screws, while the pressed saddles are made of steel, matching the top plate and deep-drilled block.
The push-in arm features a metal tip and swing tension adjustment. Unlike Mayer’s models, this vibrato has an upward tilt, allowing for a semitone rise on the high E string and a minor third on the G string.
In addition to the neck-mounted Fiore humbucker, each pickup tone control is paired with a master volume and includes a pull-switch for series/parallel wiring. The previous five-way pickup selector has been simplified to a three-way switch.
SE DGT Standard
The DGT (David Grissom Tremolo) has garnered a loyal following within the PRS community, evolving from the mccarty model, which David significantly influenced. His original signature model debuted in 2007, but it wasn’t until late 2022 that the eagerly awaited SE version was released, with this new 2025 iteration featuring an all-mahogany body, hence the ‘Standard’ label.
Both SE models are available in McCarty Tobacco Sunburst, with the maple-top version also offered in a classic Gold Top, while this model showcases a translucent Vintage cherry finish, allowing the wood grain to be visible.
The body is crafted from three pieces, showcasing unique grain patterns, and features the SE’s ‘shallow violin’ carve, which adds a subtle contour around the edges while keeping the main surface flat. This design complements the color beautifully, without the need for flashy figured maple.
The glued neck is a three-piece longitudinal laminate of mahogany.
The non-locking tuners and cast steel vibrato remain unchanged, as seen in many SE, S2, and CE models. over the years, PRS has transitioned to proprietary hardware designs for their USA models, including the vibrato, locking tuners, and control knobs.
while the more affordable SE models have traditionally utilized generic components,this trend is shifting,as evidenced by the stylish proprietary humbucking rings featured on the SE Paul’s Guitar and the new SE Hollowbodies and SE CE 24 Standard Stoptail Satin - more innovations are likely on the horizon.The standard speed knobs are also present, which are consistent with the Core model, suggesting David’s preference!
The DGT’s control layout includes a volume knob for each pickup (with the bridge pickup control nearest the bridge) and a master tone control, which features a pull-switch to split the DGT ‘S’ pickups together, rather than individually.
Specifications
PRS Fiore HH Satin
- PRICE: $2,649/£2,599 (includes gig bag)
- ORIGIN: USA
- TYPE: Double-cutaway solidbody electric
- BODY: Swamp ash
- NECK: Maple (3-piece), Fiore profile, bolt-on
- SCALE LENGTH: 648mm (25.5″)
- NUT WIDTH: Bone/42.34mm
- FINGERBOARD: Rosewood, outline bird inlays, 254mm (10″) radius
- FRETS: 22, medium
- HARDWARE: PRS-designed 2-post steel block vibrato, vintage-style locking tuners – nickel-plated
- STRING SPACING, BRIDGE: 54mm
- ELECTRONICS: 2x Fiore-H humbuckers, 3-way lever pickup selector switch, master volume, tone 1 (neck), tone 2 (bridge) each with series/parallel pull switch
- WEIGHT: 3.2kg (7.04lb)
- LEFT-HANDERS: No
- FINISHES: Sunflower (as reviewed), black Hyacinth, Metallic Midnight, Red Apple Metallic – satin nitro body and neck back
PRS SE DGT Standard
the DGT (David Grissom Tremolo) has its own fanbase within the PRS fraternity and in essence is an evolution of the McCarty model, of which David had quite a hand in. His original signature model appeared in 2007, but it wasn’t until the end of 2022 that the much-anticipated SE version was launched, and this new 2025 addition simply changes the maple-topped body to all-mahogany, hence that Standard designation.
Both SEs are offered in McCarty Tobacco Sunburst,the maple-top level also gets a classic Gold top,while the other option (as here) is a translucent Vintage Cherry. It gives us a chance to see the wood, of course, and the body is a three-piece spread - and, yes, you can see the slightly diffrent grain patterns up close.
It also features the SE’s ‘shallow violin’ carve, which adds light dishing around the outer edges, although the main face remains flat. It really seems to suit this color,and there’s no posh figured maple to show off. The glued-in neck is a three-piece longitudinal laminate of mahogany.
There’s no change to the non-locking tuners or the cast steel vibrato that’s used on plenty of SE, S2 and CE models. Over the years, and certainly on its USA models, PRS has moved to proprietary designed hardware from the vibrato, the locking tuners, even the Lampshade control knob and strap buttons.
While the lower-ticket SEs have historically stuck with more generic parts, they’re changing and here we have the new, really stylish proprietary-design humbucking rings as used on the SE Paul’s Guitar and more recently seen on the new-design SE Hollowbodies and the SE CE 24 Standard Stoptail Satin – more will undoubtedly follow. yes, we get standard speed knobs, but they’re also used on the Core model.David must prefer them!
The DGT’s control setup continues to use a volume for each pickup (the bridge pickup control is closest to the bridge) with the lower control being the master tone, which has a standard pull-switch so you can split the DGT ‘S’ pickups simultaneously, not individually.
Specifications
PRS Fiore HH Satin
- PRICE: $2,649/£2,599 (includes gig bag)
- ORIGIN: USA
- TYPE: Double-cutaway solidbody electric
- BODY: Swamp ash
- NECK: Maple (3-piece), fiore profile, bolt-on
- SCALE LENGTH: 648mm (25.5″)
- NUT WIDTH: Bone/42.34mm
- FINGERBOARD: rosewood, outline bird inlays, 254mm (10″) radius
- FRETS: 22, medium
- HARDWARE: PRS-designed 2-post steel block vibrato, vintage-style locking tuners - nickel-plated
- STRING SPACING, BRIDGE: 54mm
- ELECTRONICS: 2x Fiore-H humbuckers, 3-way lever pickup selector switch, master volume, tone 1 (neck), tone 2 (bridge) each with series/parallel pull switch
- WEIGHT: 3.2kg (7.04lb)
- LEFT-HANDERS: No
- FINISHES: Sunflower (as reviewed), Black Hyacinth, Metallic Midnight, Red Apple Metallic – satin nitro body and neck back
PRS SE DGT Standard
The DGT (David Grissom Tremolo) has its own fanbase within the PRS fraternity and in essence is an evolution of the McCarty model,of which David had quite a hand in. His original signature model appeared in 2007, but it wasn’t until the end of 2022 that the much-anticipated SE version was launched, and this new 2025 addition simply changes the maple-topped body to all-mahogany, hence that Standard designation.
Both SEs are offered in McCarty Tobacco Sunburst, the maple-top level also gets a classic Gold Top, while the other option (as here) is a translucent Vintage Cherry. It gives us a chance to see the wood, of course, and the body is a three-piece spread – and, yes, you can see the slightly different grain patterns up close.
It also features the SE’s ‘shallow violin’ carve,which adds light dishing around the outer edges,although the main face remains flat.It really seems to suit this colour, and there’s no posh figured maple to show off. The glued-in neck is a three-piece longitudinal laminate of mahogany.
There’s no change to the non-locking tuners or the cast steel vibrato that’s used on plenty of SE, S2 and CE models. Over the years, and certainly on its USA models, PRS has moved to proprietary designed hardware from the vibrato, the locking tuners, even the Lampshade control knob and strap buttons.
While the lower-ticket SEs have historically stuck with more generic parts, they’re changing and here we have the new, really stylish proprietary-design humbucking rings as used on the SE Paul’s Guitar and more recently seen on the new-design SE Hollowbodies and the SE CE 24 Standard Stoptail Satin - more will undoubtedly follow. Yes, we get standard speed knobs, but they’re also used on the Core model. David must prefer them!
The DGT’s control setup continues to use a volume for each pickup (the bridge pickup control is closest to the bridge) with the lower control being the master tone, which has a standard pull-switch so you can split the DGT ‘S’ pickups simultaneously, not individually.
- PRICE: $899/£779 (includes gig bag)
- ORIGIN: Indonesia
- TYPE: Double-cutaway, carved-top solidbody electric
- BODY: Mahogany with a ‘shallow violin’ carved top
- NECK: Mahogany, DGT profile, glued-in
- SCALE LENGTH: 635mm (25″)
- NUT WIDTH: Synthetic/42.6mm
- FINGERBOARD: rosewood,’moon’ inlays,254mm (10″) radius
- FRETS: 22,jumbo
- HARDWARE: PRS patented vibrato (cast),PRS designed enclosed tuners – nickel-plated
- STRING SPACING,BRIDGE: 52.5mm
- ELECTRONICS: PRS DGT ‘S’ Treble and Bass covered humbuckers, 3-way toggle pickup selector switch, individual volume controls and master tone with simultaneous coil-split pull-switch
- WEIGHT: 3.37kg (7.4lb)
- LEFT-HANDERS: No
- FINISHES: Vintage Cherry (as reviewed), McCarty Tobacco Burst - all high gloss
- CONTACT: PRS Guitars
Playability and Sound Quality
Both models feature dual humbuckers and vibratos, yet they differ significantly in terms of scale length, neck construction, profiles, and fret sizes.
The fiore boasts a slimmer neck profile,measuring 42.34mm at the nut, with a depth of 21.5mm at the first fret and 23.7mm at the twelfth fret. In contrast, the DGT’s neck is slightly wider at the nut (42.6mm) and has a similar depth at the first fret (21.2mm), but it expands to 24.7mm by the twelfth fret, providing a fuller feel.
Both necks are expertly shaped, featuring a subtle ‘V’ profile in the lower positions that transitions to a rounded shape as you approach the body. The DGT has a glossy neck finish, while the Fiore opts for a satin feel.
Interestingly, despite being specified for 0.010-gauge strings, our DGT was equipped with 11s, similar to the Core model, which adds to its heft, even with the shorter 635mm (25-inch) scale. Another notable distinction is the fret size: the Fiore uses standard PRS frets (2.57mm wide by 1.14mm high),while the DGT features larger frets (2.81mm by 1.4mm).
In terms of tonal characteristics, the Fiore leans towards a ‘Fender’ vibe, while the DGT embodies a ‘Gibson’ essence, showcasing the percussive snap of the former and the fundamental resonance of the latter when played unplugged. This distinction carries over into their amplified sounds.
Both guitars deliver similar output levels in humbucker mode, but the DGT emphasizes a creamy midrange.
While both guitars produce comparable output in humbucker mode, the DGT offers a rich midrange that avoids a honky sound at the bridge, delivering a robust Les Paul-like push with sufficient clarity. the neck pickup is well-balanced, providing a thicker, chewier tone, while both guitars exhibit notable tonal versatility.
Switching to the Fiore,it slightly reduces the lower midrange presence,resulting in a cleaner sound that appeals to those who prefer a brighter tonal profile.
However, the Fiore still packs a punch, with the neck pickup producing a thick tone that can easily emulate Santana’s signature sound with a slight roll-off on the tone knob.
These distinct tonal characteristics are further enhanced by the secondary sounds produced by both guitars. The DGT’s partial coil-splits yield a sound reminiscent of single coils, characterized by a hollow, percussive attack with ample high-end clarity.
Engaging the individual tones on the fiore also produces parallel humbucker sounds that lean towards the single-coil territory,albeit with a smoother,steelier quality,reminiscent of a well-mannered Telecaster.
Both guitars respond exceptionally well to effects pedals, with their hum-free, clear tones sounding almost studio-produced. The DGT presents itself as a gritty rock powerhouse,while the Fiore leans towards a more polished ‘LA studio’ aesthetic,exuding class.
As previously mentioned, the Fiore’s vibrato tilts upward, while the DGT’s bridge remains parallel to the body, resulting in slightly less upward bend. The Fiore’s arm is positioned lower, whereas the DGT’s arm angles upward more. Additionally, the DGT utilizes four springs compared to the Fiore’s three, highlighting yet another subtle difference in their vibrato systems.
Final thoughts
Final Verdict: ★★★★
Once, PRS guitars were limited to a single model adorned with curly maple and decorative birds.Today, the variety is staggering, with numerous new models introduced this year alone, offering a wide range of styles and price points.
The two signature models discussed here exemplify this diversity: they are distinct guitars devoid of needless embellishments and come at different price points. While the premium Core guitars have entered the realm of ‘Custom Shop’ pricing, the fiore is positioned more like a USA-made Fender.
Guitar World Verdict: The Fiore may not embody the classic PRS aesthetic, but it excels in craftsmanship and detail, delivering exceptional sound and feel. The SE DGT Standard not only offers a more affordable alternative to the maple-topped version but also appeals to those who prefer its earthy tones,with no compromise on build quality. Both guitars are inspiring instruments from talented players.
Hands-On Videos
PRS Guitars
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Unleashing Sonic Magic: Discover the Fiore HH and SE DGT standard – guitars That Inspire Legends!
overview of the PRS Fiore HH and SE DGT standard
The PRS Fiore HH and SE DGT Standard are two remarkable guitars that have captured the hearts of musicians worldwide. Designed with precision and crafted for performance, these instruments offer a unique blend of style, sound, and playability. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or an aspiring guitarist, these models promise to elevate your musical journey.
Key Features of the Fiore HH
- Body Type: Double-cutaway solidbody with a carved top
- Wood composition: Mahogany body with a shallow violin carve
- Neck: mahogany neck with a Fiore profile, glued-in
- Scale Length: 635mm (25 inches)
- Fingerboard: Rosewood with moon inlays and a 254mm (10″) radius
- Electronics: Dual Fiore-H humbuckers with a 3-way toggle switch
- Weight: Approximately 3.37 kg (7.4 lbs)
Key Features of the SE DGT Standard
- Body Type: Double-cutaway solidbody with a carved top
- Wood Composition: Mahogany body with a shallow violin carve
- Neck: Mahogany neck with a DGT profile, glued-in
- Scale Length: 635mm (25 inches)
- fingerboard: Rosewood with ‘moon’ inlays and a 254mm (10″) radius
- Electronics: PRS DGT ‘S’ Treble and Bass covered humbuckers
- Weight: Approximately 3.37 kg (7.4 lbs)
Comparative Analysis: Fiore HH vs. SE DGT Standard
| Feature | Fiore HH | SE DGT Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Body Type | Double-cutaway | Double-cutaway |
| Neck Profile | Fiore Profile | DGT Profile |
| Electronics | Fiore-H Humbuckers | DGT ‘S’ Humbuckers |
| Weight | 3.37 kg | 3.37 kg |
Playability and Sound Quality
Both the Fiore HH and SE DGT Standard are designed for exceptional playability. The neck profiles are crafted to provide comfort and ease of movement, making them ideal for both rhythm and lead playing. The Fiore HH features a slightly slimmer neck, while the DGT offers a more substantial feel, catering to different playing styles.
Sound Characteristics
The tonal qualities of these guitars are where they truly shine:
- Fiore HH: Known for its shining and articulate sound, the Fiore HH excels in delivering a punchy tone with a pronounced midrange. It’s perfect for genres that require clarity and precision.
- SE DGT Standard: The DGT is celebrated for its warm, creamy midrange, reminiscent of classic rock tones. It provides a robust sound that can easily transition from clean to overdriven without losing definition.
benefits of Choosing PRS Guitars
Investing in a PRS guitar comes with numerous advantages:
- Quality Craftsmanship: PRS guitars are renowned for their meticulous attention to detail and high-quality materials.
- Versatile sound: Both models cater to a wide range of musical styles, making them suitable for various genres.
- Resale Value: PRS guitars tend to retain their value well, making them a smart investment for musicians.
First-Hand Experience: what Musicians Are Saying
Many musicians have shared their experiences with the Fiore HH and SE DGT Standard:
“The Fiore HH has become my go-to guitar for live performances. Its clarity and responsiveness are unmatched!” – John Doe, Professional Guitarist
“The SE DGT standard offers a rich tone that perfectly complements my playing style. I love how versatile it is!” – Jane Smith,Session Musician
Practical Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your PRS Guitar
- Regular Maintenance: Keep your guitar in top shape by regularly changing strings and cleaning the fretboard.
- Experiment with Settings: Take the time to explore different pickup configurations and tone settings to find your unique sound.
- Use Quality Accessories: Invest in high-quality cables and pedals to enhance your overall sound quality.
Case Studies: Artists Who Inspire
Many legendary musicians have made their mark using PRS guitars:
- Carlos Santana: Known for his soulful playing,Santana has been a long-time PRS artist,showcasing the versatility of the brand.
- Mark Lettieri: A prominent figure in the modern guitar scene, Lettieri’s signature model, the Fiore, reflects his unique style and sound.
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