PRS 2026 Lineup: DGT Semi-Hollow, Vela HHT & More
PRS 2026 lines announced ahead of NAMM
PRS Guitars officially pulls the curtain back on its 2026 product lineup, ahead of the NAMM Show. This year’s release is defined by the permanent addition of a long-requested signature model, a modern evolution of the S2 series, and an expansion of their amplification and SE guitar lines.
PRS 2026 Content
The DGT Semi-Hollow Joins the Core Lineup
The centerpiece of the PRS 2026 announcement is the official induction of the DGT Semi-Hollow into the Maryland-made Core Series. Born from more than two decades of collaboration between Paul Reed Smith and session legend David Grissom, the DGT (David Grissom Trem) has long been a favourite for its “refined McCarty” feel.
They are great, versatile guitars, so this announcement will be popular with guitarists worldwide.
Semi-Hollow Tones
Previously available only through the Private Stock department or in limited runs, the DGT Semi-Hollow brings a new acoustic dimension to the platform. It maintains the classic specs players expect: a 25” scale length, 22 jumbo frets, and the signature DGT neck carve.
However, the semi-hollow construction significantly alters the tone of this model. I know many DGT fans have been hoping this model would join the PRS Core line, so there will be lots of players wanting to check it out this year.
“For me, the DGT Semi-Hollow has been a super versatile companion to my solidbody DGTs,” said Grissom. “The semi-hollow design has a bit warmer top end, a little less bottom than the solid body, and I can get more controlled feedback.”
DGT Tone
The guitar features custom-voiced DGT pickups, dual volume controls, and a push/pull tone control for coil-tapping, allowing for a massive range of vintage-inspired tones. These guitars sound great, and this new version will offer a new variation on that much-repected DGT tone.
They will be available in Charcoal, McCarty Tobacco Sunburst, McCarty Sunburst, Gold Top, Faded Blue Jean, Dark Cherry Sunburst, and Tiger Eye high-gloss nitro finishes.
S2 Vela HHT
The S2 Series receives a significant boost with the introduction of the S2 Vela HHT. While the original Vela was known for its quirky, offset personality and single-coil snap, the HHT (Humbucker-Humbucker-Tremolo) variant moves into heavier, more modern territory.
I own the original Vela, so this release is interesting to me, as I now want to compare the new version with my current model. They are very comfortable offset guitars, and this update takes them in a new direction, which could be perfect for many guitarists who want a bit more humbucker grunt.
DS-01 Humbuckers
The HHT is equipped with a pair of DS-01 humbuckers, designed to provide a “beefy” low end and a sharper attack due to their exposed pole pieces. Despite the move to humbuckers, the push/pull tone control keeps the Vela’s signature sparkling cleans accessible via coil-tapping.
PRS Patented Tremolo
The addition of the PRS patented tremolo bridge—a departure from the standard Vela’s traditional plate-style bridge—transforms the model into a highly expressive lead instrument. It is the second time this model has had a trem system added, as the previous Vernon Reid signature model featured a Floyd Rose on a Vela for the Living Colour guitarist’s needs at the time.
These new Vela HHT models will be available in both satin nitro and high-gloss nitro finishes, with a wide range of colours.
SE Series 2026 Updates
The budget-friendly SE Series continues to evolve for 2026. Following the successful launch of the SE Celeo and SE DGT Standard, the entire line is receiving hardware upgrades.
SE Wing Button Tuners
Most 2026 SE models will now feature proprietary wing button tuners and new sloped pickup rings, bringing the aesthetic and ergonomic feel closer to their Core counterparts.
SE Signature Updates
The Silver Sky receives two new satin finishes: Black Plum and Mojave Brown. Additionally, the popular SE Zach Myers signature model is now available in a striking Elderberry Burst.
We will dive deeper into these individual SE models as they become available this year, but for now, it looks as though the SE line has some excellent updates for 2026, making them ideal guitars for many musicians.
Archon Classic 50 Combo
For players seeking a professional rig in a portable format, PRS has launched the Archon Classic 50 Combo. By housing the Archon 50 Classic head’s circuitry inside a cabinet with a 12″ Celestion V-Type speaker, PRS has created what they describe as a “grab-and-go” solution that doesn’t sacrifice tone.
It uses two JJ 6CA7 power tubes and six JJ ECC83S preamp tubes to deliver the tube tones you want and to drive the effects loop.
A Perfect Pedal Platform?
Designed as a high-headroom pedal platform, this amplifier delivers a range spanning from pristine cleans to “edge-of-breakup” grit. Its control layout begins with a 3-band EQ and a Bright switch, which allows for precise tonal shaping while ensuring the high end never becomes “icepicky.”
Presence and Depth
Further refinement is possible through the power amp’s feedback network, managed by global Presence and Depth controls. The Presence control brings the tone forward by releasing high-mid and treble frequencies, whereas the Depth control offers a choice between a tight, focused low end or a more resonant, bass-heavy response.
No reverb on this one, but many players now use reverb pedals in their rigs anyway, so it isn’t a huge issue these days.
It also features a built-in effects loop and a 1-button footswitch for channel changing, making it flexible. Looks like this could indeed be a great ‘grab and go’ combo for guitarists.
Conclusion
There is a lot to take in here, and I suspect that the DGT Semi-Hollow and Vela HHT models will both be popular, as will the updates to the SE lineup. The new 2026 models and colours are expected to begin shipping to authorised dealers immediately following the NAMM Show.
It’s certainly looking like another great year for PRS fans, and considering last year was their 40th Anniversary, they aren’t letting up for 2026 with even more great releases!
We will keep you updated with pricing and availability as they start to drop.
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