Kramer launches the SM-1 Figured, an AAA maple-topped shred machine with high-spec parts for lower than $1,200

Kramer has unveiled a brand new addition to its flagship Unique Assortment within the type of the SM-1 Figured.

As you would possibly guess from the title, essentially the most notable characteristic of the revived model’s newest electric guitar is the AAA Figured Maple veneer, which is paired, Les Paul-style, with a mahogany physique and ebony fingerboard.

It’s an eye catching look, significantly the Caribbean Blue Perimeter end and really a lot in step with extra modern metal guitar design. As such, it’s a notable leap ahead from the pure nostalgia that has powered Kramer’s retro-tinged range up to now.

It’s nonetheless constructed for pace, after all, and there’s a Kramer Ok-Velocity SlimTaper C form to the neck. The neck runs by the physique and that ebony ‘board is inlaid with Kramer headstock shapes and a Kramer emblem on the twelfth fret.

Elsewhere, you’ll discover a formidable part listing, together with a trio of Seymour Duncan pickups, within the form of the JB humbucker on the bridge and Cool Rails single-coils within the neck and center positions. 

Controls embrace quantity and tone knobs, alongside a five-way pickup selector and a mini-toggle for splitting the coils on the bridge humbucker. 

Lastly, it’s outfitted with a Floyd Rose 1000 Collection vibrato and locking nut, alongside Kramer’s personal black {hardware}.

Of all of the guitars produced since Kramer made its return in 2021, the value and spec of the SM-1 would seem to position the SM-1 on the prime of the pile. 

The SM-1 continues to be constructed overseas, however at $1,200 for a figured maple prime and a beneficiant serving to of branded parts, seems to symbolize good worth for cash, at the least on paper.

Both method, it can possible hold us occupied whereas await additional information of the Kramer USA vary mooted by Gibson bigwigs and teased by Dave Mustaine final yr.

Head to Kramer Guitars (opens in new tab) for extra info.

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Matt is a contract journalist who has spent the final decade interviewing musicians for the likes of Complete Guitar, Guitarist, Guitar World, MusicRadar, NME.com, DJ Magazine and Digital Sound. In 2020, he launched CreativeMoney.co.uk (opens in new tab), which goals to share the concepts that make artistic existence extra sustainable. He performs guitar, however shouldn’t be allowed close to your delay pedals.