Best Kramer Guitars ST Style Guitars 2026
Okay, so you're in the market for a Kramer ST-style guitar? Smart move. They've got a reputation, a history of being a no-nonsense workhorse, and honestly, a lot of folks forget about them. We’re going to break down the best Kramer ST guitars – not just the ones they *think* you should buy, but the ones that actually deliver the goods for gigging, recording, and just plain rocking out.
Last updated: May 6, 2026 • Next update: May 13, 2026
#1
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Kramer Guitars Illusionist 84
Rock
Pop
Funk
Key Feature:
The Illusionist 84 is a solid offering for players craving a modern, aggressive ST-style guitar. The Seymour Duncan JB pickup and Floyd Rose tremolo provide serious performance, while the maple neck and alder body deliver a snappy, responsive feel. It's a great choice for rock, metal, and hard-hitting genres, offering a lot of bang for your buck.
PROS
- • Seymour Duncan JB delivers aggressive, high-output rock and metal tones.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides snappy response and comfortable, familiar feel.
- • Floyd Rose 1000 series tremolo enables wide vibrato and dive bombs.
- • Alder body offers a balanced tone with good sustain and resonance.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction lacks the resonance of a set-neck design.
- • Limited pickup versatility; primarily suited for rock and harder genres.
- • Tremolo system requires careful setup to avoid tuning instability.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 606286
$1,199
#2
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Kramer Guitars Feral Cat Baretta Rainbow Leo
Country
Funk
Pop
Key Feature:
This Feral Cat Baretta is a seriously fun guitar – the rainbow finish is a head-turner, and the JB pickup delivers a modern, aggressive tone perfect for rock and metal. The Floyd Rose tremolo gives you plenty of expression, and the Kramer neck profile makes it comfortable to play for extended periods. It's a great option for players wanting a shred-ready instrument with a unique look.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Seymour Duncan JB Zebra provides high-output, versatile rock and blues voicing.
- • Kramer 'Thin C' neck profile offers comfortable, fast playing feel.
- • Floyd Rose tremolo allows for wide vibrato and dive-bombing effects.
CONS
- • Maple fretboard can feel a bit 'slick' for some players without conditioning.
- • Bolt-on neck construction may lack the inherent warmth of a set-neck design.
- • Rainbow Leo finish, while striking, may not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 523039
$977
#3
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Kramer Guitars Jersey Star AW
Rock
Indie
Pop
Key Feature:
The Jersey Star AW is a solid contender for players seeking a versatile, shred-ready guitar. The Duncan pickups and Floyd Rose tremolo make it a real performer for rock and metal, while the coil-splitting options broaden its tonal palette. It's a great choice for intermediate to advanced players who want a high-quality instrument with a modern edge.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Seymour Duncan SH-2/SH-4 combo delivers a versatile range of classic rock tones.
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo allows for wide vibrato and dive bombs.
- • Gold-plated hardware adds a touch of class and resists corrosion.
CONS
- • 16-inch radius fretboard might feel less comfortable for players used to flatter profiles.
- • Maple neck and fretboard can feel a bit snappy and bright for some players.
- • Floyd Rose tremolo requires careful setup and can be tricky for beginners.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 465792
$1,099
#4
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Kramer Guitars Volante HSGT Angel White
Indie
Blues
Funk
Key Feature:
The Volante HSGT is a seriously fun guitar – it's got a modern edge but retains a familiar feel. The compound radius neck and those Kramer pickups make it surprisingly versatile, handling rock, blues, and even some heavier styles with aplomb. This is a great option for players wanting a stylish, well-playing instrument without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Compound radius fingerboard enhances playability, fast solos and comfortable chords.
- • Kramer USA pickups offer a surprisingly articulate and powerful sound.
- • Locking tuners provide stable tuning, a welcome feature at this price point.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction lacks the warmth and complexity of a set-neck.
- • Angel White finish might be polarizing – a bit flashy for some players.
- • Tremolo system may require occasional maintenance to stay in tune.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 616985
$1,099
#5
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Kramer Guitars Hot Rod Baretta Blue Sparkle
Indie
Country
Pop
Key Feature:
This Hot Rod Baretta is a seriously fun guitar – a modern take on a classic ST shape. The Seymour Duncan JB gives it plenty of bite for rock and metal, while the Floyd Rose lets you get wild with vibrato. It's a great option for players looking for a shred-ready instrument with a distinctive look, offering excellent value.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Seymour Duncan JB delivers high-output, aggressive rock and blues tones.
- • Floyd Rose tremolo allows for wide vibrato and dive bombs.
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers snappy response and comfortable playability.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck joint can lack the warmth of a set-neck design.
- • The thin neck profile might not suit players preferring a thicker feel.
- • Blue Sparkle finish, while striking, may not appeal to all tastes.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 606356
$989
#6
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Kramer Guitars SM-1 Figured BDP
Blues
Country
Funk
Key Feature:
The SM-1 BDP is a solid offering for players seeking a modern ST-style guitar with a vintage vibe. The mahogany construction and Duncan pickups provide a thick, punchy tone that's great for rock and heavier genres, while the Floyd Rose tremolo adds expressive possibilities. It’s a fantastic option for intermediate players wanting a premium feel without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant, and powerful low-end response.
- • Seymour Duncan Cool Rails and JB pickups offer versatile tonal options.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a slick, fast playing experience and excellent note definition.
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo allows for wide-ranging vibrato and dive bombs.
CONS
- • Neck-thru design can make neck adjustments slightly more complex for some.
- • Mahogany construction may result in a somewhat heavier instrument overall.
- • Coil-splitting functionality is limited to the bridge pickup only.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 549206
$934
#7
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Kramer Guitars Baretta Ebony
Country
Funk
Pop
Key Feature:
The Baretta Ebony is a solid, no-nonsense shred machine. That Seymour Duncan JB gives you a seriously aggressive voice perfect for rock and metal, and the Floyd Rose tremolo makes it super expressive. It's a great option for players wanting a classic vibe and high-performance hardware without premium pricing.
PROS
- • Seymour Duncan JB delivers aggressive, high-output rock tones.
- • Maple construction provides clarity and sustain across the spectrum.
- • Floyd Rose tremolo enables expressive vibrato and dive bombs.
- • Kramer 'Thin C' neck profile is comfortable for fast playing.
CONS
- • Ebony fingerboard can be unforgiving for players sensitive to fret buzz.
- • All-maple construction can make it feel somewhat dense and weighty.
- • Limited tonal flexibility compared to guitars with coil-splitting options.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 533542
$769
#8
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Kramer Guitars SM-1 Figured RPP
Indie
Country
Rock
Key Feature:
The SM-1 RPP is a seriously fun guitar, offering a blend of modern playability and classic tones. The neck-thru construction and ebony fingerboard make it a joy to play, while the Duncan pickups deliver plenty of punch for rock and metal. It's a premium-priced instrument that's perfect for players looking for a versatile, shred-ready ST-style guitar.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant tones with excellent sustain.
- • Seymour Duncan Cool Rails/JB combo provides versatile, high-output sounds.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a slick, fast playing experience and note clarity.
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo enables wide vibrato and dive bombs with stability.
CONS
- • Neck-thru design can be slightly less comfortable for some players.
- • Royal Purple Perimeter finish may not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
- • Coil splitting on the bridge pickup can be a bit noisy at high gain.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 549209
$1,077
#9
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Kramer Guitars Pacer Wild Zebra
Indie
Pop
Funk
Key Feature:
The Kramer Pacer Wild Zebra is a solid option for players craving a classic ST-style guitar with modern features. The bolt-on neck provides a snappy response, while the 85-T pickup delivers a powerful, aggressive tone. It's a great choice for rock, metal, and anyone wanting a versatile, budget-friendly shred machine.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Slim Taper C neck profile offers comfortable, fast playability for many players.
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo allows for wide vibrato and dive bombs.
- • 85-T humbucker delivers a thick, aggressive tone suitable for rock and metal.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction lacks the inherent warmth of a set neck.
- • Wild Zebra finish, while striking, may not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
- • Gig bag offers minimal protection; a hard case is highly recommended.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 623220
$714
#10
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Kramer Guitars Volante HHFR Defender Red
Funk
Rock
Blues
Key Feature:
The Volante HHFR is a surprisingly solid offering, blending modern features with a classic ST-style feel. Those USA Neptune pickups really pack a punch, delivering a versatile range from crunchy rhythm to searing leads. It's a great option for players who want a shred-ready instrument with a distinct Kramer edge without needing a premium-priced instrument.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Kramer’s Elliptical C neck profile is surprisingly comfortable and fast.
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo allows for wide-ranging, stable vibrato effects.
- • USA-made Neptune humbuckers deliver high-output, thick, and articulate tones.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the warmth of a set neck.
- • Compound radius fingerboard might not suit all players’ preferences.
- • Gig bag included is basic; a hard case would be a worthwhile upgrade.
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 616994
$1,099
#11
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Kramer Guitars Volante HHFR Intruder Black
Blues
Rock
Indie
Key Feature:
The Volante Intruder is a seriously fun guitar for players wanting a modern, aggressive edge. The Floyd Rose trem and high-output pickups make it ideal for rock, metal, and anything needing a bit of bite. It's a great option for players seeking a shred-ready instrument without the premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • USA-made Neptune humbuckers deliver high-output, modern rock tones.
- • Compound radius fingerboard enhances playability across the entire fretboard.
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo allows for wide-ranging vibrato and dive bombs.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction may lack the warmth of a set-neck design.
- • Limited pickup options restrict versatility for more nuanced genres.
- • Gig bag is basic; a hard case would offer better protection.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 616988
$1,209
#12
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Kramer Guitars Pacer Emerald Green
Indie
Blues
Pop
Key Feature:
This Kramer Pacer is a real contender for players wanting a solid, shred-ready platform without the premium price tag. The Duncan pickups and Floyd Rose trem are a winning combo for rock and metal, and the slim neck makes it a breeze to play fast. It’s a fantastic option for intermediate players or those looking for a dependable, versatile guitar.
PROS
- • Seymour Duncan pickups deliver a powerful, versatile, high-output sound.
- • Maple body and neck provide a bright, snappy tone with excellent sustain.
- • Floyd Rose tremolo allows for wide-ranging vibrato and dive bombs.
- • Slim neck profile and 14in radius fingerboard offer comfortable, fast playability.
CONS
- • Maple construction can be somewhat bright; may lack warmth for certain styles.
- • Bolt-on neck joint, while efficient, doesn’t offer the resonance of a set-neck.
- • Emerald Green finish, while striking, might not appeal to all players.
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 606483
$659
#13
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Kramer Guitars Volante Ql HHFR Ultramarine B
Indie
Blues
Country
Key Feature:
The Volante Ql HHFR is a seriously stylish and capable instrument. The compound radius ebony fingerboard and Elliptical C neck profile make it a joy to play, while the humbucker combination delivers a thick, modern tone that's perfect for rock, metal, and beyond. This is a great option for players looking for a premium feel and performance without the high-end price tag.
PROS
- • AAA quilted maple top adds serious visual flair and resonance.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a slick, fast playing experience and sustain.
- • Kramer Elliptical C neck profile is surprisingly comfortable and ergonomic.
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo allows for wide-ranging, stable vibrato effects.
CONS
- • Alder body might make it a bit heavier than some players prefer.
- • Single volume/tone control limits tonal shaping flexibility.
- • Ultramarine Burst finish, while striking, might not appeal to everyone's taste.
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 616999
$1,319
#14
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Kramer Guitars Volante Quilt HSFR Magenta B.
Blues
Pop
Indie
Key Feature:
The Volante Quilt HSFR is a seriously cool-looking and surprisingly versatile guitar. That Magenta Burst finish is a head-turner, and the pickup combination gives you everything from searing rock leads to clean, articulate rhythm tones. It's a great option for players wanting a modern ST-style feel with premium aesthetics and a touch of Kramer's unique flair.
PROS
- • AAAA quilted maple top provides stunning visual appeal and resonance.
- • Kramer’s Elliptical C neck is surprisingly comfortable and fast.
- • USA-made Neptune humbucker delivers a thick, powerful, rock-ready tone.
- • Compound radius ebony fingerboard enhances playability and note clarity.
CONS
- • Magenta Burst finish might not appeal to all players' aesthetic preferences.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the sustain of a set-neck.
- • Tremolo system, while functional, isn't a high-end, ultra-smooth unit.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 617006
$1,319
#15
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Kramer Guitars Volante HSGT Triburst
Country
Pop
Rock
Key Feature:
This Volante HSGT is a seriously fun guitar, blending classic ST aesthetics with Kramer’s modern touches. The pickup pairing is surprisingly versatile, covering everything from sparkling cleans to gritty overdrive. It's a great choice for players who want a well-built, comfortable instrument with a unique voice without breaking the bank.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Kramer's Elliptical C neck is surprisingly comfortable and fast-playing.
- • USA-made Neptune humbucker provides thick, powerful rock and blues tones.
- • Compound radius fingerboard eases chording while enabling effortless lead work.
CONS
- • Tremolo system might benefit from upgraded components for stability.
- • Triburst finish, while striking, can be prone to fingerprints and smudging.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while efficient, lacks the warmth of a set neck.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 616980
$1,099
How to Choose the Best ST Style Guitars
1
Heritage & Design
Kramer’s 80s shred era shaped their ST designs, often prioritizing aggressive ergonomics and hotter pickups. This isn’t a vintage recreation; it’s a modern take on a classic, often with a more contemporary feel and hardware.
2
Neck Profile
Kramer necks are frequently thinner and flatter than classic Fender profiles, geared towards faster playing. This can be a huge plus for lead work, but might feel a little foreign if you’re used to a vintage C or D shape – definitely try before you buy if possible.
3
Pickup Voicing
Many Kramers lean towards a higher output, more aggressive pickup voicing – think a snappier, more modern rock tone. While they can clean up nicely with the volume knob, don't expect that glassy, bell-like Strat tone without some tweaking.
4
Hardware & Construction
Kramer’s build quality varies across models. Generally, you get a solid instrument for the price, but don't expect premium appointments on the lower-end models. The locking tremolo systems are a nice touch for tuning stability, but can feel a bit stiff compared to vintage-style tremolos.
5
Value Proposition
Kramer STs consistently offer a lot of guitar for the money. You're getting a playable, decent-sounding instrument without breaking the bank – a great option for players on a budget or those needing a reliable backup.
Buying Guide
Look, you're not getting a $3,000 Fender here, and Kramer isn't trying to be. The sweet spot is usually in the mid-range models with upgraded pickups – those HSS configurations can be surprisingly versatile. Pay close attention to the neck profile; that’s the biggest dealbreaker for many players. If you’re after a vintage-accurate Strat sound, Kramer isn’t your brand.
Our Methodology
We're not relying on spec sheets here. We’ve spent countless hours playing these guitars – live, in the studio, and just noodling around. Our evaluations involve A/B comparisons against Strats from Fender and other competitors, focusing on how they feel, sound, and hold up to the rigors of regular use. It's about real-world performance, not marketing buzz.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. They offer solid performance and value, especially for rock and metal players. They aren't chasing vintage tones, but deliver a modern, playable feel.
They do, particularly from the 80s shred era. The modern Kramers carry on that legacy of being reliable, workhorse guitars that can handle a beating.
They excel in rock, hard rock, and metal. While versatile, they aren’t ideal for super clean, classic country or blues tones – they’re built for aggression.
Generally yes. The thinner necks and modern ergonomics make them comfortable for fast playing, but it's still important to try one out to ensure the neck profile suits your hand size and playing style.
Kramers prioritize playability and a more aggressive tone, often with hotter pickups and thinner necks. Fenders aim for a more classic, versatile sound and often have more traditional neck profiles and hardware.
