PRS Bass 4 Custom 1986-1987 - Custom Color - Used
This is an exceptionally rare piece of PRS history: an early Bass 4 Custom dating to the 1986-1987 transition period. According to its pedigree, this is the 142nd bass ever produced by the Virginia Avenue factory. Adding to its provenance is a unique story shared by Paul Reed Smith himself during a signing with the original owner: the custom finish was a prototype based on the nail polish color of his wife at the time. This makes it a true "one-of-one" style collector's item from the dawn of PRS.
Construction-wise, this bass features the classic early-PRS recipe: a solid mahogany body paired with a set maple neck and a dark, resonant Brazilian rosewood fretboard. The neck features a comfortable medium C profile, a 10" radius, and the iconic mother-of-pearl and abalone Moon inlays.
Tonally, this is a powerhouse. It is equipped with three single-coil pickups controlled by a 5-way rotary selector, allowing for a vast array of phase-coherent and hum-canceling textures. The onboard active/passive switch and 2-band EQ (Bass and Treble) provide immense control over your signal, making it as capable in a modern studio as it is on a vintage stage.
This instrument has been played and loved, showing some honest battle scars and cosmetic wear that tell the story of its 35+ years of service. However, it remains structurally sound and plays fantastically. The action is currently low and comfortable; while the bridge hardware is at its limit for those who prefer "on the frets" action, it is perfectly dialed in for the vast majority of players. It includes a modern SKB TSA-approved hardshell case for maximum protection.
Specifications
– Model: Bass 4 Custom
– Year: 1986-1987 (Serial #142)
– Body: Solid Mahogany
– Neck: Maple (Set-Neck)
– Fingerboard: Brazilian Rosewood
– Inlays: Mother of Pearl & Abalone Moons
– Scale Length: 34 inches
– Nut Width: 1-5/8 inches
– Radius: 10 inches
– Pickups: Three PRS Single Coils
– Controls: Master Volume, 5-Way Rotary Selector, Active/Passive Toggle, Bass & Treble EQ
– Hardware: Original PRS/Schaller
– Case: SKB TSA Hardshell Case
– Condition: Very Good (Player Grade). Visible cosmetic wear (battle scars); structurally sound; professionally set up with low, comfortable action.
About Us + Shipping
Every instrument we sell has been professionally checked over and set up by our technician to ensure optimal playability. We pack each order with care and ship promptly. Mill River Music is a full-service music store located in Western Massachusetts. We are proud to offer new, used, and vintage gear, plus repairs and friendly advice. International buyers are welcome - please message us for an accurate shipping quote before purchase.
