This page about Jackson Kelly KE1 Marty Friedman Signature Guitar is a stub. You can help improve it:

Pricing and availability

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Designed in collaboration with the legendary guitarist Marty Friedman, the Jackson Kelly KE1 Marty Friedman Signature Guitar is an embodiment of musical prowess and unique style. This solid body electric guitar is crafted for those who demand precision and power. The KE1 is equipped with a Seymour Duncan JB TB-4 bridge pickup, ensuring that every note you play is filled with clarity and punch, perfect for both intricate solos and heavy riffs.

The KE1 features a neck-through-body construction, providing exceptional sustain and stability. Its compound radius fingerboard allows for smooth playability, whether you're shredding at the top frets or riffing down low. The guitar's sharp, angular body shape is not only visually striking but also ergonomically designed for comfort during long performances. With a locking nut and a Floyd Rose Original double-locking tremolo system, this guitar delivers rock-solid tuning stability and expressive vibrato effects.

Ideal for metal and rock enthusiasts, the KE1 is a testament to Jackson's commitment to quality and innovation. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, this guitar is built to inspire and perform.

Key Features:

  • Neck-through-body construction for enhanced sustain
  • Seymour Duncan JB TB-4 bridge pickup for powerful, clear sound
  • Compound radius fingerboard for versatile playability
  • Floyd Rose Original double-locking tremolo system for reliable tuning stability
  • Angular body shape for distinctive aesthetics and comfort
Music Games Randomness

Music Games Randomness

Jackson Marty Friedman Signature kelly

Video thumbnail for Jackson Marty Friedman Signature kelly by Music Games Randomness

Jackson Marty Friedman Signature kelly

Music Games Randomness

Music Games Randomness

Video thumbnail for Tornado of souls solo cover Marty Friedman Jackson KE1 - Megadeth by Chris Chang

Tornado of souls solo cover Marty Friedman Jackson KE1 - Megadeth

Chris Chang

Chris Chang

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Jackson Kelly KE1 Marty Friedman Signature Guitar.

Build quality

  • Many owners find the Floyd Rose 1000 satisfactory but note the basic Jackson tuners aren't worth the premium price tag.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A common mod includes swapping stock pickups for Seymour Duncan JB/Jazz sets to enhance tone.

    Source
  • Owners often replace the plastic nut with a Graph Tech nut for improved stability and tone.

    Source
  • Some users favor the Seymour Duncan Trash Factor (Dave Mustaine signature) pickups for a more aggressive sound.

    Source
  • Golden locking tuners are recommended for those seeking aesthetic consistency with gold hardware.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some users report high frets and tight stock tuners on JS models, recommending Gotoh tuners and fretwork adjustments.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Marty Friedman Kelly is often compared to Gibson Explorers, with users preferring its shape despite the lower horn potentially obstructing play.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Owners feel Chinese-made Jacksons are overpriced by 30%, suggesting $800-$900 as a fair value rather than the $1,300 retail price.

    Source
  • Owners who purchased before recent price hikes find the guitar to be a valuable investment, reflecting on past affordability compared to current market conditions.

    Source
  • High-end American Jackson models are considered expensive, prompting some users to search for affordable alternatives with similar quality.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The single pickup, single volume setup is favored for its simplicity and direct control, appealing to players seeking a straightforward, powerful sound.

    Source
  • Enthusiasts express a strong preference for a hardtail bridge, citing discontinued models like the Jeff Loomis signature as examples of desirable configurations.

    Source

User experience

  • Enthusiasts appreciate the hardtail bridge for its tuning stability and straightforward maintenance compared to tremolo systems.

    Source
  • The quilt top finish on some models is highly praised for its visual appeal, adding an element of luxury to the guitar's aesthetic.

    Source
  • Despite the quality of Jackson pickups, some players still prefer using aftermarket pickups, highlighting a personal taste for specific tonal qualities.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Fans of Marty Friedman and metal genres specifically seek this model for its association with his iconic playing style and influence on their musical journey.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Marty Friedman uses Jackson Kelly KE1 Marty Friedman Signature Guitar

Marty Friedman

Guitarist

Megadeth

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, and this photo, Marty Friedman can be seen holding his signature Jackson guitar.

See how Josh Rand uses Jackson Kelly KE1 Marty Friedman Signature Guitar

Josh Rand

Guitarist, Bassist

Roadrunner United

...
Verified via Photo

I’m starting to track the 2nd song that I’ve been kicking around in my head today. It’s probably the fastest thing that I have ever written. I’ve decided to busted these 3 out for the extra inspiration.

See how Stevie Morley Item uses Jackson Kelly KE1 Marty Friedman Signature Guitar

Stevie Morley Item

Guitarist

Andra and the BackBone

...
Verified via Photo

In the photo provided, Stevie Morley Item is clearly seen holding a Jackson Kelly KE1 Marty Friedman Signature Guitar.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Jackson Kelly KE1 Marty Friedman Signature Guitar, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

ESP Jeff Hanneman UC
ESP Jeff Hanneman UC Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Jackson Kelly
Jackson Kelly Solid Body Electric Guitars
1

More Jackson Solid Body Electric Guitars

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    austinmw
    austinmw

    Gear IQ 5227