PRS’ new NF 53 electric combines timeless looks, cutting-edge features and precision playability in a modern-classic masterpiece

PRS has long been a trailblazer in the world of electric guitar design, but the company appears to have outdone even its own storied legacy with the brand-new NF 53, which Guitar World Tech Editor Paul Riario calls a “very different and electrifying addition” to PRS’ six-string range.

Indeed, the NF 53 aims to be a modern classic, mostly because it draws its inspiration from one of Paul Reed Smith’s favorite vintage guitars from 1953, with a bold single-cut design. 

In keeping with that classic look, the NF 53 boasts timeless specs: a swamp ash body and a 22-fret, 25.5-inch scale length bolt-on maple neck with maple fretboard – the latter of which is given some pizzazz via PRS’ signature bird inlays

Then there’s the NF 53’s unique voice, which comes courtesy of a special set of PRS Narrowfield pickups – the Narrowfield DD (Deep Dish), which sport a mixed magnet/steel pole piece design and a slightly deeper bobbin, combining to offer plenty of twangy goodness without sacrificing bottom end. 

You also get single volume and tone controls and a three-way blade pickup switch, as well as vintage-style tuners, a bone nut and a steel PRS plate-style bridge with brass saddles, a tried-and-true combination that “undoubtedly offers a much brighter tone and snappier response, not to mention more sustain,” Paul says. 

His verdict?

“For players who love that vintage look and feel of a T-style guitar, the PRS NF 53 is a modern classic,” Paul summarizes. “It is a touch-sensitive and powerfully responsive guitar that combines single-coil tones without the hum, thanks to its sweetly-voiced Narrowfield DD pickups.”

Paul continues that the “spot-on craftsmanship and precision playability only add to the charm of the NS 53, making it one of my favorite guitars that I’ve had the pleasure to play.”

For more information, head to PRS.