What Are These Guitars?
Keeping pace with PJD Guitars from York, UK, is no small feat. Recently, they revived one of their classic models, the Carey Classic, to mark their 15th anniversary. Simultaneously occurring, behind the scenes, founders Leigh Dovey and Josh Parkin have been collaborating with a partner in Indonesia to replicate their UK craftsmanship at a more accessible price point.
The trend of outsourcing production has been around for decades, with major brands like Fender and Gibson striving to recreate iconic heritage models. Despite its growing popularity, PJD remains a smaller player in a vast market.
The Indonesian-made electric guitars will be branded under the ‘Origin Series,’ featuring two Pro models that aim to mirror the high-end UK Elite models.
Upcoming PJD shapes, including the York and Woodford, alongside the St John and Carey, will be available as new Standards priced at £599 in solid gloss finishes, while the Carey and St John Apprentice models will kick off at £499.
In the UK, the customizable Elite models will remain priced at £3,199. New Vintage models (Valhalla, York, Woodford, St John, and Carey) will feature gloss NOS nitro finishes, while the st John and Carey Classic models, with their chambered swamp ash bodies, will replace the current standard models at £1,899.
A fresh, modern-rock design called the Romulus will be available for £1,899 with a vibrato option, while the fixed-bridge variant will serve as the new entry point for the UK range at £1,699.
What’s that saying? When the going gets tough,the tough get going.
Construction quality
When two boxes arrived at Guitarist HQ, we were intrigued about what to expect. At frist glance, both Origin Pro models bore a striking resemblance to the UK-built Elite models, which is notable considering they are priced at less than a quarter of the cost. This is precisely the goal: these ‘offshore’ Pros are designed to emulate the aesthetics of the premium UK PJD Custom Shop models.
Instead of the high-gloss finish favored by many,both guitars feature a sophisticated satin finish,with open-pore backs. their weights range from 3.26kg (7.17lb) to 3.42kg (7.5lb),with the St John being the lighter option.
PJD is renowned for utilizing lightweight chambered swamp ash and solid obeche, but the pros are constructed from solid mahogany (also found in the UK Elites). The bodies consist of three pieces,topped with a thinly flamed figured maple veneer and neatly scraped cream plastic binding,with an overall thickness of 40mm.
the necks closely match the mahogany bodies in color but are actually made from slab-sawn dark-roasted maple. A notable difference is that, instead of using machine bolts threaded into inserts in the neck (a standard feature of PJD’s UK models), the Origins utilize standard neck screws that sit in recessed washers on the gently domed heel.
Despite the differing outlines of the UK models, they all share the same 648mm (25.5-inch) scale length, which is replicated here along with the signature Fender-style headstock.
A distinctive feature of the Origin models is the silver PJD logo; the UK versions sport a gold decal. These initial Origin designs come with rosewood fingerboards (ours are a visually appealing deep brown), while the PJD hallmark hollow rectangle face inlays are present, albeit with slightly lower contrast compared to the UK models.
The six-saddle string-through bridge design from the UK models is retained, although the bridge here-drawing inspiration from a Hipshot design-features rounded walls and ‘hollow’ block saddles, giving it a classy appearance.
The tuners are arguably an upgrade over the non-locking vintage style used on the current UK Standards.
The tuners are indeed an enhancement over the non-locking vintage style found on the current UK Standards: these are rear-locking with black-coated metal buttons.
PJD’s signature style is evident with the bridge humbucker housed in its own oversized mounting ring, while the neck pickup is mounted to the laminate scratchplate, made from the same material as the pickup ring.
The Carey model features rear-mounted volume and tone controls that are widely spaced, with the pickup selector toggle located on the upper horn. In contrast, the St john’s controls are more closely arranged, with the toggle positioned below the tone control-mirroring the layout of the UK models.
Both guitars also incorporate a stylish chromed metal ‘football’ jack plate, securely side-mounted and ready for gigging. these designs exude class, blending nostalgic elements with a contemporary flair.
Specifications
PJD Origin Series Carey Pro
- PRICE: £799 (approximately $1,059 including gig bag)
- ORIGIN: Indonesia
- TYPE: Single-cut solidbody electric
- BODY: Mahogany with cream-bound thin maple top and 5A figured maple veneer
- NECK: Roasted maple, bolt-on
- SCALE LENGTH: 648mm (25.5″)
- NUT WIDTH: Bone/42.5mm
- FINGERBOARD: Rosewood, rectangular pearloid inlays, 254mm (10″) radius
- FRETS: 22, medium-jumbo
- HARDWARE: Through-strung walled bridge with 6 hollow saddles; rear-lock tuners with black metal buttons – chrome-plated
- STRING SPACING: 53mm
- ELECTRONICS: 2 PJD-designed Wadfather ‘Origin’ covered humbuckers, 3-way toggle pickup selector switch, master volume and tone controls
- WEIGHT: 3.42kg (7.5lb)
- OPTIONS: Color only
- RANGE OPTIONS: The new indonesian-made guitars will start with the St John and Carey Apprentice (£499), while the York, Woodford, St John, and Carey Standards will retail at £599
- LEFT-HANDERS: No
- FINISHES: Sea Blue (as reviewed), Original Burst, forest Green Burst, Charcoal Burst - all satin polyester with open grain back
PJD Origin Series St John Pro
- PRICE: £799 (approximately $1,059 including gig bag)
- ORIGIN: Indonesia
- TYPE: Offset-shaped solidbody electric
- BODY: Mahogany with cream-bound thin maple top and 5A figured maple veneer
- NECK: Roasted maple, bolt-on
- SCALE LENGTH: 648mm (25.5″)
- NUT WIDTH: Bone/42.5mm
- FINGERBOARD: rosewood, rectangular pearloid inlays, 254mm (10″) radius
- FRETS: 22, medium-jumbo
- HARDWARE: Through-strung walled bridge with 6 hollow saddles; rear-lock tuners with black metal buttons – chrome-plated
- STRING SPACING: 53mm
- ELECTRONICS: 2 PJD-designed wadfather ‘Origin’ covered humbuckers, 3-way toggle pickup selector switch, master volume and tone controls
- WEIGHT: 3.26kg (7.18lb)
- OPTIONS: Color only
- RANGE OPTIONS: See Carey Pro
- LEFT-HANDERS: No
- FINISHES: Original Burst (as reviewed), sea Blue, Forest green Burst, Charcoal Burst – all satin polyester with open grain back
- CONTACT: PJD Guitars
Playability and Tone
Both guitars exhibit a solid feel and weight reminiscent of traditional solidbodies, with our original semi-hollow Carey Standard weighing in at 5.79kg (12.8lb). However, they also present a more conventional playing experience.
the neck profiles are well-crafted, closely resembling PJD’s standard design: the St John measures 20.5mm at the first fret and 22.9mm at the twelfth, while the Carey is 21mm at the first and 22.1mm at the twelfth fret.
Subtle differences in shape exist, with the Carey featuring a classic medium C profile and the St John having a slightly flatter back. Both necks maintain a Fender-like width,measuring 42.4mm at the nut and averaging 51.6mm at the twelfth fret.Despite these minor variations, both guitars feel modern and comfortable, especially with their satin finishes.
The fret width is slightly larger at 2.89mm compared to the Jescar wire used in the UK models, yet it maintains a good height of approximately 1.4mm, contributing to a more contemporary rock feel.
The fingerboard radius is set at 254mm (10 inches),and both guitars are well set up. The frets are polished to a shine, and while the edges of the fingerboard aren’t rolled, they are not sharp either.
Both models exhibit a similar acoustic response, producing a lively and robust sound with a smooth ring, complemented by a clear high-end that isn’t overly pronounced. When plugged in, it’s clear that PJD aims for a rock-oriented sound, with the bridge pickup delivering an overwound midrange punch that works well with both classic rock and heavier metal tones.
reducing the volume slightly rounds out the tone for chunky rhythm playing, while the pickup blend adds a touch of sparkle.The neck pickups on both guitars are not overly potted,producing heavier blues tones with a satisfying snap on cleaner settings.
In fact,all three tonal options are quite credible,and both guitars offer straightforward and fast playability. While neither would be our first choice for jangly ‘single coil’ sounds,you might be pleasantly surprised by the overall tonal range,whether clean or driven. At this price point, we have no complaints.
Final Thoughts
rating: ★★★★
These guitars embody a modern, boutique aesthetic. While they may not reach the intricate detailing of PJD’s Elite UK models, they visually come close and, importantly, offer a similar playing experience.
While the tones might be somewhat generic, they are also comfortingly familiar; these guitars are well-tuned and stable.
This makes both instruments highly functional and ready for live performances, and honestly, we find it challenging to identify any drawbacks.
Indeed, while the tones may lean towards the generic side, they are reassuringly familiar; these guitars are well-tuned and stable, and regardless of their manufacturing origin, we cannot fault the craftsmanship.
Guitar World’s conclusion: PJD’s ideology has always centered around straightforward functionality, credible tones, excellent playability, and tuning stability, and these guitars exemplify those principles effectively. A remarkable debut with much more to anticipate.
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Both guitars present a solid feel and weight akin to traditional solidbodies, with our original semi-hollow Carey Standard tipping the scales at 5.79kg (12.8lb). However, they also provide a more conventional playing experience.
The neck profiles are expertly crafted, closely resembling PJD’s standard design: the St John measures 20.5mm at the first fret and 22.9mm at the twelfth, while the carey is 21mm at the first and 22.1mm at the twelfth fret.
Subtle differences in shape exist, with the Carey featuring a classic medium C profile and the St John having a slightly flatter back. Both necks maintain a Fender-like width, measuring 42.4mm at the nut and averaging 51.6mm at the twelfth fret. despite these minor variations, both guitars feel modern and comfortable, especially with their satin finishes.
The fret width is slightly larger at 2.89mm compared to the Jescar wire used in the UK models, yet it maintains a good height of approximately 1.4mm, contributing to a more contemporary rock feel.
The fingerboard radius is set at 254mm (10 inches), and both guitars are well set up. The frets are polished to a shine, and while the edges of the fingerboard aren’t rolled, they are not sharp either.
Both models exhibit a similar acoustic response, producing a lively and robust sound with a smooth ring, complemented by a clear high-end that isn’t overly pronounced. When plugged in, it’s clear that PJD aims for a rock-oriented sound, with the bridge pickup delivering an overwound midrange punch that works well with both classic rock and heavier metal tones.
Reducing the volume slightly rounds out the tone for chunky rhythm playing,while the pickup blend adds a touch of sparkle. The neck pickups on both guitars are not overly potted, producing heavier blues tones with a satisfying snap on cleaner settings.
In fact, all three tonal options are quite credible, and both guitars offer straightforward and quick playability. While neither would be our first choice for jangly ‘single coil’ sounds, you might be pleasantly surprised by the overall tonal range, whether clean or driven. At this price point, we have no complaints.
Final Thoughts
Rating: ★★★★
These guitars embody a modern, boutique aesthetic. While they may not reach the intricate detailing of PJD’s elite UK models,they visually come close and,importantly,offer a similar playing experience.
While the tones might be somewhat generic, they are also comfortingly familiar; these guitars are well-tuned and stable.
This makes both instruments highly functional and ready for live performances, and honestly, we find it challenging to identify any drawbacks.
Indeed, while the tones may lean towards the generic side, they are reassuringly familiar; these guitars are well-tuned and stable, and regardless of their manufacturing origin, we cannot fault the craftsmanship.
Guitar World’s conclusion: PJD’s philosophy has always centered around straightforward functionality, credible tones, excellent playability, and tuning stability, and these guitars exemplify those principles effectively. A remarkable debut with much more to anticipate.
Hands-On Videos
The Guitar Geek
Watch On
