Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $649
Standard/Professional
$500
$1201+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
* 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
Step into the world of vintage allure with the Kay Speed Demon, a semi-hollowbody electric guitar that captures the spirit of an era when rock 'n' roll defined a generation. Crafted during the early 1960s, the Kay Speed Demon is a testament to timeless craftsmanship and enduring design. With its distinct Florentine cutaway, this guitar not only offers easy access to higher frets but also adds a touch of elegance to its silhouette.
Musicians and collectors alike appreciate the Speed Demon's versatility, as it was available in configurations with one, two, or three pickups. Each pickup configuration brings its own sonic palette, allowing players to explore a range of tones from mellow jazz riffs to biting rock solos. The Bigsby tremolo option further enhances its appeal, providing a smooth and expressive vibrato that's perfect for adding character to your sound.
Whether you're a seasoned player or a vintage enthusiast, the Kay Speed Demon offers a unique blend of historical significance and practical performance. It's not just an instrument; it's a piece of musical history waiting to inspire your next performance.
Key Features:
- Semi-hollowbody design with Florentine cutaway
- Available in one, two, or three pickup configurations
- Optional Bigsby tremolo for expressive vibrato
- Produced between 1961 - 1965
- Sought after by collectors for its vintage charm and history
Product specs
| Brand | Kay |
| Model | Speed Demon K573 |
| Finish | Sunburst |
| Year | 1960s |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars |
| Body Shape | Single Cutaway |
| Body Type | Semi-Hollow Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Stop-Bar |
| Color Family | Brown |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On |
| Number of Frets | 19 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup Configuration | SSS |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
FAQs
-
What type of music is the Kay Speed Demon best suited for?
-
The Kay Speed Demon, with its semi-hollow body and triple single-coil pickups, is well-suited for blues, jazz, and rock genres, offering a warm, resonant tone with versatile sound options.
-
How does the bolt-on neck construction of the Kay Speed Demon affect playability?
-
The bolt-on neck of the Kay Speed Demon provides a snappy response and allows for easier neck adjustments, offering a comfortable playing experience with good sustain.
-
What is the pickup configuration of the Kay Speed Demon and how does it influence the sound?
-
The Kay Speed Demon features a single-coil, triple-pickup configuration (SSS), delivering bright, clear tones with plenty of articulation, ideal for clean and slightly overdriven sounds.
-
Is the Kay Speed Demon suitable for beginner guitarists?
-
While the Kay Speed Demon offers unique vintage tones appealing to many players, its semi-hollow body and multiple controls might be more suitable for intermediate players familiar with electric guitar nuances.
-
What is the scale length of the Kay Speed Demon, and how does it impact playing?
-
The Kay Speed Demon typically has a scale length around 25.5 inches, providing a balanced tension for strings, which contributes to its bright tone and comfortable playability for various styles.
Videos
JT Keel
1961 Kay Speed Demon
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Kay Speed Demon.
Setup and maintenance
-
Owners note the importance of adjusting the 'jaunty' angle of the floating bridge for optimal playability.
Source
Features and functionality
-
Many appreciate the vintage P-90 pickup covers, though only one pickup is often functional, affecting electric playability.
Source
Build quality
-
It's mentioned that these guitars often have high action, which can impact comfort and playability if not adjusted.
Source
User experience
-
Some users mention the frets typically require attention, indicating potential wear or setup issues over time.
Source
4.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
In a photograph featured in the Rough Trade Blog article "On The Rise: Wunderhorse" Harry Fowler is shown playing a vintage Kay electric guitar, identified as a Kay Speed Demon, during a session at Pachyderm Studios.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
More Kay Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
tylertoporcerGear IQ 60
-