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: July 22, 2026 • Next update: July 29, 2026
⚡ The best st style guitars in 2026 are Kramer Guitars SM-1 H Buzzsaw gold (top pick), Kramer Guitars SM-1 Figured RPP for tighter budgets, and Kramer Guitars Illusionist 84 for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $328–$1,538, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Kramer Guitars SM-1 H Buzzsaw gold
Indie
Funk
Pop
Key Feature:
This Kramer SM-1 H Buzzsaw Gold is a serious contender for players wanting a modern, aggressive sound with vintage aesthetics. The neck-through design and ebony fretboard make it a joy to play, and the Seymour Duncan JB delivers plenty of punch. It's a great option for rock, metal, and hard-hitting genres, especially if you like a unique look and a locked-in tremolo.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain; a real tonal foundation.
- • Seymour Duncan JB provides aggressive, versatile high-output tones.
- • Ebony fretboard offers slick playability and note clarity.
- • Neck-through construction enhances sustain and upper fret access.
CONS
- • Buzzsaw Gold finish might be polarizing; a bold aesthetic choice.
- • Limited control set restricts tonal shaping beyond the pickup’s character.
- • Neck-through design can complicate future repairs; a potential drawback.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 525219
$879
#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
⭐
4.4/5
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
#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
⭐
4.5/5
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
#6
⭐
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
#7
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Kramer Guitars Quilt HHFR Ultraviolet Burst
Pop
Country
Indie
Key Feature:
This Quilt HHFR is a serious contender for players wanting a modern ST-style guitar with a premium feel. The combination of the Floyd Rose tremolo, powerful humbuckers, and comfortable neck profile makes it a shredder's dream, while still being versatile enough for blues and rock. It's a fantastic option for intermediate to advanced players seeking a high-quality instrument without the truly high-end price tag.
PROS
- • AAA Quilted Maple top provides stunning aesthetics and resonance.
- • Kramer Elliptical C neck offers a comfortable, modern playing feel.
- • Neptune humbuckers deliver high-output, versatile tones, surprisingly articulate.
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo allows for wide-ranging, stable vibrato.
CONS
- • Ebony fingerboard can be unforgiving for players sensitive to fret sprout.
- • Alder body, while good, might be a bit plain for some seeking a premium feel.
- • Compound radius, while innovative, requires adjustment for players accustomed to a standard radius.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 617000
$1,429
#8
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Kramer Guitars Volante Quilt HSFR Aqua Burst
Blues
Funk
Indie
Key Feature:
The Volante Quilt HSFR is a seriously stylish and capable instrument. The combination of the Floyd Rose trem, compound radius, and unique pickup pairing makes it surprisingly versatile – good for rock, blues, and even some modern styles. It’s a great option for players who want a premium feel and look without the high-end price tag.
PROS
- • AAAA quilted maple top delivers stunning visuals and enhanced resonance.
- • Kramer Elliptical C neck profile offers a comfortable, modern feel.
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo provides reliable, wide-ranging vibrato.
- • Neptune/Triton pickup combo offers a surprisingly versatile tonal palette.
CONS
- • Ebony fingerboard can be brittle and prone to cracking with humidity changes.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits sustain compared to set-neck designs.
- • Aqua Burst finish, while beautiful, might not appeal to all tastes.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 617008
$1,319
#9
⭐
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
#10
⭐
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
#11
⭐
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
#12
⭐
4.9/5
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.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 523039
$977
#13
⭐
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
#14
⭐
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
#15
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Kramer Guitars 1983 Baretta Reissue Ebony
Funk
Rock
Indie
Key Feature:
This Baretta reissue nails the vibe of a classic shred machine. The Seymour Duncan humbucker and Floyd Rose tremolo are a potent combination for aggressive rock and metal. It's a premium-priced option that delivers serious performance for players who want that 80s Kramer edge.
PROS
- • Seymour Duncan ’59 delivers thick, creamy, vintage-voiced distortion.
- • Maple body provides excellent sustain and a bright, articulate tone.
- • Gotoh machine heads offer smooth tuning stability and a premium feel.
- • Floyd Rose tremolo enables wide vibrato and dive-bomb effects.
CONS
- • The bolt-on neck might not appeal to players preferring set necks.
- • Ebony finish can be prone to fingerprints and requires careful maintenance.
- • Limited pickup configuration restricts versatility for modern genres.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 623224
$1,539
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.
