The challenge for the PRS SE team was to bring that same level of craftsmanship, tone, and playability to a more accessible price point—and they nailed it.
The Heart of the SE NF53: Narrowfield “Deep Dish” Pickups
At the core of the SE NF53’s magic are the all-new Narrowfield DD (“Deep Dish”) ‘S’ pickups. These aren’t your average single-coils. They’re specially designed mini humbuckers that deliver the clarity and chime of a single-coil, paired with the punch and hum-free operation of a humbucker.
Their “Deep Dish” design—featuring taller bobbins and more windings—creates a tone that’s focused, articulate, and alive. Whether you’re chasing clean Nashville sparkle or gritty overdriven growl, the NF53 delivers it all with effortless musicality.
This seamless blend of old-school soul and modern engineering is exactly what sets the PRS SE NF53 apart.
First Impressions: Feel the Quality
From the moment you pick up the NF53, the PRS craftsmanship is undeniable. The fit and finish are flawless, and the bolt-on maple neck feels instantly comfortable—fast, smooth, and inviting. The Swamp Ash body is lightweight yet resonant, giving the guitar an airy liveliness you can feel as much as you can hear.
Classic PRS touches like the bird inlays and contoured body elevate the look and feel, creating a guitar that feels as premium as it sounds. And when you plug it in, those Narrowfield pickups reveal a stunning tonal range: full and dynamic with a rich midrange, brilliant highs, and none of the noise you’d expect from traditional single-coils.
