Here’s a stunning 2000 PRS Custom 22 finished in rich Dark Cherry Sunburst - a rare configuration featuring three PRS soapbar P-90 pickups. This model sits at the intersection of Paul Reed Smith’s meticulous craftsmanship and a tonal palette that blends vintage character with modern precision.
By 2000, PRS had firmly established itself as a premier builder, balancing the refinement of boutique construction with the performance and reliability demanded by top-tier players. The Custom 22 was one of their flagship models - known for its carved maple tops, impeccable fit and finish, and superb playability. The three P-90 setup adds a distinctive voice, offering everything from chimey cleans to growling mids and raunchy, harmonically rich overdrive.
This guitar plays beautifully. The neck carves comfortably in the hand, with the nut width at 42.11mm and width at the 12th fret at 52.02mm, giving a familiar but slightly more substantial feel than a typical PRS wide-thin. The profile transitions from a depth of 22.21mm at the 1st fret to 24.33mm at the 12th fret, providing substance without bulk. The setup is dialled perfectly, with action at 0.5mm at the 1st fret and 1.75mm at the 12th fret, making it smooth and precise across the fingerboard.
Sonically, the three soapbar P-90s offer remarkable versatility. The bridge pickup delivers punch and bite, the middle offers woody snap and definition, and the neck gives warm, rounded tones with plenty of articulation. Blending positions opens up a wealth of textures - ideal for anything from clean funk to gritty blues and rootsy rock.
This example remains completely stock, with no modifications or changes. It shows light player wear and some tasteful tarnishing of the hardware, giving it a subtle vintage vibe without detracting from its overall excellent condition. At 4.24kg (9.34lb), it’s solid and resonant, with sustain for days.
Comes in its PRS OHSC.
Features:
Nut Width: 42.11mm
Width at 12th Fret: 52.02mm
Neck Depth at 1st Fret: 22.21mm
Neck Depth at 12th Fret: 24.33mm
Action at 1st Fret: 0.5mm
Action at 12th Fret: 1.75mm
Weight: 4.24kg / 9.34lb
Model: PRS Custom 22 Soapbar
Year: 2000
Serial Number: 47179
Finish: Dark Cherry Sunburst
Body: Mahogany with carved maple top
Neck: Mahogany
Fingerboard: Maple
Inlay: Bird
Pickups: 3 x PRS Soapbar P-90s
Controls: 5-way rotary selector, master volume, master tone
Bridge: PRS tremolo
Case: PRS OHSC
