1986 Paul Reed Smith (Pre-Standard)
The 1986 PRS "Pre-Standard" (often simply called the Standard once it entered official production) is a holy grail for many PRS collectors. It represents the raw, hand-carved era of Paul Reed Smith’s early Maryland workshop.
Unlike the Custom 24, which featured a maple top, the Standard was built with an all-mahogany body, giving it a distinct tonal character and a sleek, monolithic look—especially in black.
The Aesthetic: "The Black Beauty"In 1986, the finish was typically a deep, high-gloss nitrocellulose lacquer. On a black Pre-Standard, this creates a mirror-like "piano black" effect that highlights the famous PRS body carve.
- The Silhouette: Features the classic double-cutaway with deep, hand-filed scoops in the lower horn.
- The Hardware: Usually, a mix of nickel or chrome. The contrast of the silver hardware against the midnight black body is striking and understated.
- The Neck: Often features a "Regular" or "Standard" carve—comfortable, meaty, but fast.
Feature
Description
Body Material
One-piece Mahogany (No maple cap)
Neck Material
Mahogany with a Brazilian Rosewood fretboard
Scale Length
25 inches
Pickups
Original "Standard" Treble & Bass humbuckers (often T & B stamped)
Switching
5-way rotary selector (provides those unique "strat-like" out-of-phase tones)
Bridge
One-piece PRS patented tremolo
Inlays
Usually Moon inlays (Birds were a premium upcharge)
Condition: Collector Grade / Mint
This 1986 PRS Standard is a rare, investment-grade "time capsule" piece in Mint condition. It remains in 100% original, unmodified state, appearing as if it has barely left its case since leaving the Virginia Avenue workshop.
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Finish: The original "Piano Black" nitrocellulose lacquer is deep and mirror-like, free of the typical "milking" or cloudy oxidation often seen on 80s PRS models. There are no chips, buckle rash, or significant pick swirling.
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Electronics: The circuit is untouched. It features the original T & B (Treble & Bass) stamped humbuckers and the early "Sweet Switch" (the internal delay line circuit), providing that distinct, sought-after mid-shift. All solder joints are factory-original.
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Hardware: The nickel/chrome hardware remains bright with virtually no pitting. The original one-piece tremolo and "wings" locking tuners function perfectly.
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Playability: The Brazilian Rosewood fretboard is dark and lush; the original frets show no visible wear. The neck is straight, and the "Regular" carve feels exceptionally comfortable.
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