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 27, 2026 • Next update: June 3, 2026
#1
⭐
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
#2
⭐
4.5/5
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.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 549209
$1,077
#3
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Kramer Guitars Baretta Vintage Pewter Gray
Pop
Blues
Indie
Key Feature:
This Baretta is a solid, no-nonsense ST-style guitar with a vintage vibe and modern playability. The JB pickup delivers serious bite, and the Floyd Rose lets you go wild with vibrato. It's a great option for players wanting a workhorse guitar for rock, hard rock, and heavier rhythms, without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Maple body provides a bright, resonant tone with excellent sustain
- • Seymour Duncan JB delivers high-output rock and blues tones
- • Floyd Rose tremolo enables wide vibrato and dive bombs
- • Bolt-on neck offers a snappy feel and quicker response
CONS
- • 14in radius fretboard may feel less comfortable for players used to flatter profiles
- • Maple construction can make it feel a bit headstock-heavy
- • Limited pickup versatility; primarily suited for rock and harder styles
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 465980
$714
#4
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Kramer Guitars Baretta White Lotus D
Pop
Rock
Funk
Key Feature:
This Baretta is a seriously fun guitar, especially for players craving a classic ST vibe with modern locking tremolo functionality. The Seymour Duncan JB gives it a real edge for rock and metal, and the thin neck makes it easy to shred. It's a great option for players looking for a premium-priced instrument with a high-performance feel and aggressive tone.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a resonant, balanced tonal foundation.
- • Seymour Duncan JB delivers aggressive high-output rock and metal tones.
- • Floyd Rose tremolo offers exceptional tuning stability and dive bombs.
- • Thin profile neck enhances playability and speed for fast solos.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction lacks the sustain of a set-neck design.
- • Candy Blue finish may not appeal to all players' aesthetic preferences.
- • Limited pickup versatility; primarily suited for rock and heavier genres.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 606360
$1,209
#5
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Kramer Guitars SM-1 Figured BP
Rock
Country
Indie
Key Feature:
The SM-1 Figured BP is a serious contender for players seeking a high-performance ST-style guitar without the premium price tag. The neck-through construction and ebony board make it a joy to play, while the Duncan pickups deliver a wide range of tones, from glassy cleans to aggressive rock. It's a fantastic choice for gigging musicians and aspiring shredders looking for a well-built, versatile instrument.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant tones with excellent sustain
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a slick, fast playing experience
- • Seymour Duncan Cool Rails/JB combo provides versatile, high-output sounds
- • Floyd Rose tremolo enables wide vibrato and expressive playing
CONS
- • Neck-through design can limit upper fret access for some players
- • Caribbean Blue finish might be polarizing for certain tastes
- • Mahogany body contributes to a potentially heavier overall feel
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 549208
$934
#6
⭐
4.5/5
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.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 616994
$1,099
#7
⭐
4.4/5
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.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 606286
$1,199
#8
⭐
4.8/5
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.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 465792
$1,099
#9
⭐
4.5/5
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.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 606483
$659
#10
⭐
4.8/5
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.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 606356
$989
#11
⭐
4.5/5
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.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 533542
$769
#12
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Kramer Guitars Striker Figured HSS ST TB
Blues
Pop
Indie
Key Feature:
This Striker HSS is a seriously fun guitar for the money. The flamed maple top looks way more expensive than the price tag suggests, and the humbucker in the bridge position provides a surprisingly aggressive tone. It's a great option for players wanting a versatile, modern ST-style guitar without a premium price.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides warmth and sustain, a surprisingly solid foundation.
- • AAA flamed maple top adds visual appeal and a touch of brightness.
- • K-Speed neck profile offers comfortable, fast playability for modern styles.
- • The AlNiCo 5 humbucker delivers a powerful, crunchy bridge tone.
CONS
- • Laurel fretboard, while playable, lacks the snap and feel of rosewood or ebony.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits the potential for nuanced, resonant sustain.
- • Hardware, while functional, feels budget-oriented and may be a future upgrade point.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 533609
$351
#13
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Kramer Guitars Pacer Classic RB
Indie
Country
Funk
Key Feature:
This Pacer Classic is a solid, affordable option for players wanting that classic ST vibe with a modern edge. The slim neck and hot pickups make it surprisingly versatile for rock, hard rock, and even some metal. It’s a great gateway guitar for beginners or a reliable workhorse for gigging musicians on a budget.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a resonant, balanced tone with good sustain.
- • K-Speed neck profile is comfortable and fast for modern playing styles.
- • Floyd Rose tremolo allows for wide vibrato and expressive bends.
- • Alnico 5 humbuckers deliver a powerful, high-output sound suitable for rock.
CONS
- • Maple fretboard might feel a bit slick for some players; consider a lemon oil treatment.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the warmth of a set neck.
- • Radio Blue Metallic finish, while striking, may show fingerprints easily.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 525214
$329
#14
⭐
4.5/5
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.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 623220
$714
#15
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Kramer Guitars The 84 Purple Splatter
Blues
Indie
Country
Key Feature:
The 84 Purple Splatter is a seriously fun guitar, packing a Floyd Rose tremolo and a beefy humbucker for a surprisingly affordable price. It’s a great option for players who want a modern feel with a nod to classic aesthetics, perfect for rock, metal, and anything that needs a bit of edge.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Walnut ‘Skunk’ stripes add visual flair and subtly stiffen the neck.
- • Floyd Rose 1000 series tremolo allows for wide-ranging vibrato effects.
- • Kramer 85-T humbucker delivers a thick, powerful, and versatile sound.
CONS
- • Purple Splatter finish might not appeal to all players' aesthetic preferences.
- • The 12 in radius fingerboard might feel less familiar to players used to flatter profiles.
- • Gig bag offers minimal protection; a hard case is recommended for transport.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 606362
$901
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.
