PRS SE Kestrel Bass

$808.63 Price Tier: Standard

5.0 (4)

2 Critic Reviews

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Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 4, 2026.

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5.0 (29)

$808.63 3 available New

$750.00 2 available Used

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Average Price: $779

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

In the Electric Basses category, PRS SE Kestrel Bass is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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High-end

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Description

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Dive into a world of deep, resonant tones with the PRS SE Kestrel Bass, a masterpiece designed for the discerning bassist. Its construction speaks volumes of quality, featuring an alder body that promises warmth and clarity in every note. The marriage of a 5-piece maple/walnut neck and a rosewood fretboard offers unparalleled playability and sustain, making it a favorite among players who demand both precision and versatility. Whether you're laying down the groove in the studio or commanding the stage, the SE Kestrel's passive single-coil pickups deliver a range of dynamic, rich sounds that can cut through any mix. Topped off with reliable hipshot hardware, this bass is not just an instrument but a trusty companion for your musical journey.

Key Features:

Alder body for a warm, clear tone
5-piece maple/walnut neck with rosewood fretboard for smooth playability and sustain
Passive single-coil pickups offer a dynamic range of sounds
Hipshot hardware ensures tuning stability and precision
34” scale length accommodates versatile playing styles

Product specs

Brand	PRS
Model	SE Kestrel Bass
Finish	Black, Red Metallic, Tri-Color Sunburst
Year	2010s
Made In	Korea, Republic of
Categories	4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups	Passive Pickups
Active Preamp	No Preamp
Body Material	Mahogany
Body Shape	Double Cutaway
Color Family	Black, Brown, Red
Finish Features	Matching Headstock
Finish Pattern	Sunburst
Finish Style	Gloss
Fretboard Material	Rosewood
Neck Material	Mahogany
Number of Frets	22
Number of Strings	4-String
Pickup Configuration	SS
Right / Left Handed	Right Handed
Wood Top Style	Plain

FAQs

What type of pickups does the PRS SE Kestrel Bass have?: The PRS SE Kestrel Bass features PRS-designed single coil pickups that provide a balanced and versatile tone suitable for various music genres.
Is the PRS SE Kestrel Bass suitable for beginners?: Yes, the PRS SE Kestrel Bass is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable 34" scale length and ergonomic design, making it easy to play for those new to bass guitar.
What is the body material of the PRS SE Kestrel Bass?: The body of the PRS SE Kestrel Bass is made from alder, which contributes to its balanced tone and sustain.
Does the PRS SE Kestrel Bass have active or passive pickups?: The PRS SE Kestrel Bass is equipped with passive pickups, offering a traditional bass sound with a wide dynamic range.
What kind of bridge does the PRS SE Kestrel Bass use?: The PRS SE Kestrel Bass features a Hipshot bridge with thru-body stringing, enhancing sustain and tuning stability.

Videos

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PRS Guitars

The PRS SE Kestrel Bass

PRS Guitars

The PRS SE Kestrel Bass in a Trio

PRS Guitars

PRS SE Kestrel Bass Guitar Review

Paul Annis

PRS SE Kestrel Bass Demo

The Bass Channel

[Music Force] PRS SE Kestrel Bass - Fingering Demo

Music Force Official

[Music Force] PRS SE Kestrel Bass - Slap Demo

Music Force Official

PRS SE Kestrel Bass Demo

Guitar World

PRS SE Kestrel Bass | Tri-Color Sunburst

MooreMusicGuitars

Reviews

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PROS

Neck-through design offers impressive sustain and tone resonance
Tuners are incredibly accurate and hold tune well
Fun arpeggio playability enhances musical creativity
Feels well-made with high-quality construction
Great sound, especially after upgrading pickups
Excellent condition for a used bass, appears almost new

CONS

Intonation can be tricky with maxed-out saddle position
Fret nibs may become sharp in colder months

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about PRS SE Kestrel Bass.

Build quality

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The SE Kestrel features a neck-through design with a bound neck, providing strong sustain and a slim, fast feel.
Source
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The SE Kestrel is manufactured at the World Music factory in Korea, known for consistent midrange quality similar to ESP's LTD Deluxe and Schecter guitars.
Source

Features and functionality

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The PRS SE Kestrel includes Hipshot Ultralite tuners and a high mass bridge for enhanced tuning stability and intonation.
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Some users clarify that PRS SE series, including the Kestrel, are not boutique but rather mass-produced, yet still offer reliable factory quality.
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User experience

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One owner reported that the SE Kestrel feels as comfortable as a short-scale bass due to the bridge placement at the body's rear.
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Owners mention the weight distribution of the PRS SE Kestrel makes it highly comfortable for extended performances.
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Users suggest purchasing from retailers with good return policies due to potential setup issues or factory defects.
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Value and pricing

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Users have found used SE Kestrels for around $600, considering them a great value for the quality offered.
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It's noted that local PRS dealers can offer used SE Kestrels at highly competitive prices, making them accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
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PRS SE models, like the Kestrel, are a third of the cost of core PRS models, providing good value if free from defects.
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Comparisons

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Some users compare the Kestrel’s design to a Gibson Victory Bass and note it shares similarities with Ibanez in aesthetics but at a higher price point.
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The SE Kestrel feels more similar to Fender basses compared to the Kingfisher, though the feel is distinct and may not appeal to all Fender users.
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PRS Kingfisher is noted as a sibling model to the Kestrel, with some curiosity about its quality and performance differences.
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Setup and maintenance

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A user suggests using a scotch brite pad to dull the finish on the neck for a more comfortable feel.
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Critic Reviews

PRS SE Kestrel & Kingfisher Basses review | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

The PRS SE Kestrel bass shines with its sleek design and vintage sound versatility, making it a worthwhile addition to any bassist's collection. While it boasts impressive craftsmanship typical of PRS, including a sexy J-style body and bird inlays, it does face minor setup challenges, such as string height adjustments. Despite these easily fixable issues, the Kestrel offers a comfortable playing experience with its slim neck and balanced weight, whether seated or standing. Overall, the Kestrel provides excellent value, combining aesthetics with solid performance at a mid-range price point.

positive

Full Review

Product Review: Paul Reed Smith SE Kestrel Bass - Guitar Girl Magazine

guitargirlmag.com

The PRS SE Kestrel Bass impresses with its sturdy construction and vibrant sound, making it a standout for both seasoned players and beginners. Its single-coil pickups deliver a crisp and punchy tone, while the neck-through construction ensures excellent sustain. The bass is visually appealing and offers a comfortable playing experience, enhanced by its Hipshot TransTone bridge, which allows for versatile string adjustments. However, the review raises a slight concern about the durability of the Hipshot Ultralite HB6 tuners, suggesting an upgrade for intense use. Overall, the Kestrel Bass is a high-value instrument with great sound and aesthetics at an affordable price point.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

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Artist usage

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Tyler Larson

Guitarist, Podcasters & Streamers

Verified via YouTube

First visible at 0:10.

Josh Gilbert

Bassist

As I Lay Dying

Verified via Instagram

In an Instagram post, Josh Gilbert showcases his collection of PRS guitars, including two PRS SE Kestrel Bass guitars.

Gabe Crisp

Bassist

Whitechapel

Verified via Twitter

In a Twitter post, Gabe Crisp showcases his PRS SE Kestrel Bass, which features a pair of DiMarzio pickups.

Rufus Mann

Bassist

Verified via Photo

In this photo Rufus can be seen using a PRS Kestrel bass, he uses this bass on his YouTube and Instagram.

Aaron Pauley

Bassist

Verified via Sonicbids

I’ve always had an affinity for jazz-style basses. When I came across the PRS SE Kestrel, I fell in love the first time I played it. The neck-through construction gives the bass incredible sustain, while the alder body and maple/walnut neck combo deliver a crispy and distinct midrange bite.

For under $800, I have yet to find a bass remotely close to the sound and construction quality. Being in a band that has a lot of young fans, the price point makes this bass accessible to both beginners and regular players. When a young fan sees me onstage with my bass and they go home and see that it’s affordable, they're often more inspired to pick it up, which is arguably the coolest part about being a musician – inspiring the next generation to pick up an instrument and play. The PRS SE Kestrel inspires me to play every time I pick it up

Lonny Eagleton

Singer, Guitarist

Black Veil Brides

Verified via YouTube

On one of his videos for his Official YouTube Channel he can bee seen comparing 2 of the bases he owns and one of them is the PRS Kestrel, he is comparing it to his PRS Kingfisher