Truck on into CME to Soar Off with this Ultra-Rare Bird

When it comes to the wall space CME devotes to the premium guitars we have in-store, perhaps no premium guitar brand has gained as much real estate as PRS since CME got into the business of buying, selling, and trading guitars collectible and player-grade instruments over 30 years ago.

While CME has come to devote an entire wall to standard PRS lines, like the Core, SE, and S2 series—as well as a wide array of exclusive offerings from Wood Library and Private Stock—there’s one model we’ve never been able to get our hands on and play: the PRS Super Eagle. But, now, with the arrival of The CME Collection, we have two!

A Rare Sight to See

Founded by luthier Paul Reed Smith in 1985, the Maryland-based gearhead got his start in the guitar-building by crafting first-class, handmade electric guitars known for their distinctive styling and high-performance features.

While PRS has made a number of signature models for artists over the years—from Santana, Mark Tremonti, to Mark Lettieri—the PRS Private Stock “Super Eagle” was borne out of a close collaboration with Grammy-winning musician John Mayer, with the goal of creating a highly sophisticated and unique instrument, paying homage to the history of guitar-making tone while pushing the boundaries of materials, design, and craftsmanship.

Among the distinctive features and personalized specs Mayer and Smith chose for both special runs of the Custom Shop “Super Eagle” models include specially-wound 58/15 JM treble and bass pickups with a specially-wound Narrowfield JM pickup in the middle position (with three individual coil-tap mini-switches), which delivered a bright, clear tone heard in venues across the US in Mayer’s performances with Dead & Company throughout the band’s early tours. Additionally, both models feature: 

PRS Super Eagle I Tobacco Smoked Burst Limited (1 of 100)

Among the other extraordinary guitars we acquired with The CME Collection, PRS Super Eagle I Tobacco Smoked Burst Limited (1 of 100) became available for order in March 2016 and sold out immediately, well before John took the stage with Dead & Company for the band’s 2016 tour with his Super Eagle I in hand, with which Mayer seemed to effortlessly channel the sounds of the Grateful Dead’s late, beloved guitar player, Jerry Garcia. 

During Dead & Company’s tour in the summer of 2016, PRS made Mayer another version of the guitar, which the guitarist received before the end of the tour and played on the very last show, then continued to play throughout the entire 2017 tour the following year.

The PRS Super Eagle II Hemp Green Limited (1 of 120) is among this later batch made available to fans and collectors, featuring many of the same specifications but with updated woods—including a one-piece Private Stock curly maple back, African blackwood fingerboard and headstock veneer—as well as aesthetic appointments like the paua birds, and a green ripple abalone 12th-fret violin bird and Private Stock eagle.

See More PRS Guitar Highlights:

SHOP CME COLLECTION | PRS COLLECTION

SHOP THE FULL CME COLLECTION

Related Posts

Introducing | Divided By 13 Amplifiers

Shop Divided By 13 Amplifiers now at Chicago Music Exchange! Crafted in collaboration with Two-Rock Amplification, these boutique amps blend classic American and British voicings with modern innovation for studio-quality tone at any volume. From sparkling cleans and rich overdrive to vintage warmth and punchy British grit, Divided By 13 amps offer premium components, expert craftsmanship, and legendary versatility. Find your perfect tone—shop online or visit our showroom today! 

Read more

Marshall Amplifiers | 2025 Gear Arrivals

  Marshall Amplifiers has defined Rock and Roll sound for decades, and the 2025 lineup takes this legacy to new heights with powerful amplifiers and pedals. Featuring iconic models like the 1959 Modified 100w Amp Head, JCM800 Modified 100w Amp Head, and Studio 900 series, these releases offer unmatched tonal versatility and performance. Whether you're recording, performing, or creating your signature sound, Marshall's 2025 gear blends vintage tones with modern enhancements for clarity and power. Discover the latest Marshall innovation, including the JVM, JCM900, and DSL Pedals, available for order at Chicago Music Exchange now!

Read more

Martin Guitar | 2025 Acoustic Arrivals

Martin Guitar's iconic Standard Series gets a stunning refresh for 2025, combining vintage-inspired design with modern advancements. New models like the 000-17, D-17, and OM-45 showcase remarkable craftsmanship, tonal clarity, and elegant aesthetics. Updates like Golden Era Sitka spruce bracing, a GE Modified Low Oval Neck, and enhanced comfort features redefine playability while preserving Martin's timeless legacy. Explore the 2025 Martin Standard Series at Chicago Music Exchange and experience the evolution of acoustic excellence.

Read more