Reverend's New Standard Series Guitars
Reverend launches the Standard Series with Charger and Kingbolt models featuring HCM humbuckers, roasted maple necks, and versatile tone controls
Reverend Guitars has just unveiled its latest offering: the Standard Series. This new line of electric guitars blends a retro-modern aesthetic with high-performance features, creating instruments that are both visually striking and sonically versatile. The Standard Series launches with two distinct models: the Charger Standard and the Kingbolt Standard.
A Closer Look at the Models
The Charger Standard features a hardtail, string-through-body bridge design, appealing to players who prioritize resonance and tuning stability.
In contrast, the Kingbolt Standard features a BS184 tremolo bridge, offering expressive vibrato for players who like to add a little wobble to their tone. Both models share a commitment to clean lines and a no-nonsense approach to high-performance appointments.
The Heart of the Standard Series: HCM Humbuckers
The defining characteristic of the new Standard Series is the inclusion of Reverend's brand-new HCM humbucking pickups. These pickups are a variation of the company's classic HA5 humbuckers. The key differences are the removal of the pickup covers and the substitution of the alnico magnets with medium ceramic magnets.
This modification turns the HA5 into a medium-high-output powerhouse. The HCM humbuckers deliver enhanced punch, impressive sustain, and rich harmonics. They are aimed squarely at guitarists craving a raw, aggressive rock tone. However, the HCMs are not one-trick ponies; they clean up beautifully when you roll back the volume knob or lighten your pick attack, offering a surprising amount of versatility.
The specifications of the HCM pickups are as follows:
- HCM Bridge: Wound with 43-gauge wire, measuring a robust 13K ohms for maximum output and bite.
- HCM Neck: Wound with 42-gauge wire, measuring a balanced 7.5K ohms for clarity and warmth.
Flexible Electronics and Smooth Playability
Beyond the powerful pickups, the Standard Series boasts a versatile electronics layout. Both the Charger Standard and Kingbolt Standard feature standard volume and tone controls. However, the secret weapon is Reverend's signature Bass Contour Control knob. This unique feature allows players to passively roll off the low end, effectively thinning out the humbucker tone to resemble a single-coil pickup, adding a wealth of tonal options without the need for complex switching.
Reverend makes playability a key focus, and the Standard Series delivers. Both models feature roasted maple necks, known for their stability and smooth feel. The necks boast a comfortable medium oval profile, a standard 25 ½” scale length, and a 12” fingerboard radius that accommodates a wide range of playing styles.
Other notable appointments include:
- Dual-action truss rod: Easily accessible at the headstock for quick and reliable neck adjustments.
- Stainless steel saddles: Providing enhanced sustain and attack.
- Reverend Pin-Lock tuners: Ensuring rock-solid tuning stability, even with heavy tremolo use or aggressive bending.
Exceptional Value and Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the new Standard Series proves that Reverend knows exactly how to build a workhorse instrument without compromising on style or tone.
When you factor in the custom-voiced HCM humbuckers, roasted maple necks, pin-lock tuners, and the incredibly versatile Bass Contour Control, getting this level of pro-grade specification for around $1,000 represents fantastic value for money. It is genuinely hard to find another guitar in this price bracket that punches so far above its weight right out of the box.
While both models look incredibly sharp across their color lineups, I have a personal favorite: the Charger in sleek Iconic Blue and the Kingbolt in vibrant Purple Punch are absolute standouts. Those finishes perfectly capture the retro-modern aesthetic Reverend is known for, making them as much a joy to look at as they are to plug in and play.
Pricing and Availability
The Standard Series offers professional-grade features at accessible price points:
Reverend Charger Standard: Available in Midnight Black, Powder Yellow, and Iconic Blue. Street price: $999 / £899.
Reverend Kingbolt Standard: Available in Tide Blue, Sandstone, and Purple Punch. Street price: $1099 / £949.
For more detailed information, specifications, and to find a dealer, visit the official Reverend Guitars website at reverendguitars.com.
- +Custom HCM humbuckers deliver aggressive rock tone with excellent versatility
- +Bass Contour Control adds significant tonal flexibility without complex switching
- +Roasted maple necks provide stability and smooth playability
- +Stainless steel saddles enhance sustain and attack
- +Pin-Lock tuners offer rock-solid tuning stability
- +Professional specs at accessible $1K price point
- +Striking retro-modern aesthetic across color options
- −Limited to two body styles in this entry-level series
- −Tremolo on Kingbolt may not appeal to all rock/metal players
What are the key differences between the Charger Standard and Kingbolt Standard?
The Charger Standard features a hardtail, string-through-body bridge for tuning stability and resonance, while the Kingbolt Standard includes a BS184 tremolo bridge for expressive vibrato effects. Both share HCM humbuckers and roasted maple necks but cater to different playing preferences.
What makes the HCM humbuckers unique?
The HCM humbuckers are uncovered ceramic-magnet variations of Reverend's HA5 design. With 13K ohms in the bridge and 7.5K ohms in the neck, they deliver medium-high output, punch, and sustain while cleaning up beautifully when volume is reduced, offering surprising tonal versatility.
What is the Bass Contour Control?
Reverend's signature Bass Contour knob passively rolls off low end, allowing players to thin out the humbucker tone to resemble a single-coil pickup without complex switching, adding significant tonal flexibility for both rock and cleaner styles.
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