Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

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.

JT Keel

JT Keel

1961 Kay Speed Demon

Video thumbnail for 1961 Kay Speed Demon by JT Keel

1961 Kay Speed Demon

JT Keel

JT Keel

Video thumbnail for 61' Kay Speed Demon by JT Keel

61' Kay Speed Demon

JT Keel

JT Keel

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

Comparisons

  • Known as a "janky/Searsucker" instrument, it's compared to cheaper alternatives from discount stores, highlighting its vintage, budget-friendly status.

    Source

4.0 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 Harry Fowler uses Kay Speed Demon

Harry Fowler

Guitarist

Wunderhorse

...
Verified via Rough Trade Blog

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.

See how Jeremie Albino uses Kay Speed Demon

Jeremie Albino

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram video, Jeremie Albino is seen playing a Kay Speed Demon. Although the guitar is branded as Silvertone in the video, it's important to note that the Speed Demon was historically marketed under various brands, including Kay, due to shared manufacturing.

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