Kay Upbeat

$2,799.00 Price Tier: High-end

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Page last updated May 07, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated May 7, 2026.

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5.0 (1)

$2,799.00 3 available Used

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Average Price: $2,799

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1201+

Price Tier

In the Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars category, Kay Upbeat is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

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Dive into the golden era of rock and jazz with the Kay Upbeat, a semi-hollowbody electric guitar that sings with historical richness and a touch of modernity. Crafted for those who appreciate the blend of vintage aesthetics and contemporary playability, this model pays homage to the legendary Barney Kessel series from the '50s and '60s. The Kay Upbeat is not just a musical instrument; it's a bridge to the past, inviting you to carry forward the legacy of iconic music. Whether you're a fan of Jack White's garage rock or Bob Dylan's folk tales, this guitar will help you channel the greats with its warm, resonant tones and elegant design.

Key Features:

Semi-hollowbody design for a rich, open sound
Laminate Maple body with Maple neck for durability and tonal clarity
Vintage-style block inlays and Trapeze tailpiece for that classic look
Unique Deco pickguard, adding a touch of artistry to its appearance
Inspired and used by notable artists like Jack White, Bob Dylan, and Ry Cooder, ensuring its legendary status

Product specs

Brand	Kay
Model	Upbeat K8990
Finish	Natural
Year	1950s
Categories	Hollow Body Guitars
Body Shape	Single Cutaway
Body Type	Hollow Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type	Stop-Bar
Color Family	Natural, Tan
Neck Construction	Set-Neck
Number of Frets	19
Number of Strings	6-String
Pickup Configuration	SS
Right / Left Handed	Right Handed

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Kay Upbeat K8990?: The Kay Upbeat K8990 features a set-neck construction that typically offers a comfortable and smooth playing experience, ideal for both rhythm and lead guitarists.
What kind of tones can I expect from the Kay Upbeat K8990 pickups?: The Kay Upbeat K8990 is equipped with single-coil pickups, providing a bright and articulate tone that is well-suited for genres like rockabilly, jazz, and blues.
Is the Kay Upbeat K8990 suitable for beginners?: While the Kay Upbeat K8990 is a vintage guitar that may appeal more to collectors and experienced players, its playability and tone also make it accessible for dedicated beginners interested in semi-hollowbody guitars.
Does the Kay Upbeat K8990 have a solid or hollow body?: The Kay Upbeat K8990 is a hollow body guitar, which contributes to its distinctive warm and resonant sound, making it ideal for jazz and blues styles.
How many frets does the Kay Upbeat K8990 have?: The Kay Upbeat K8990 features 19 frets, which provides ample range for various playing styles, including rhythm and lead guitar work.

Videos

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Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1959 Kay "Upbeat" Archtop | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar Demo with Michael Lemmo - Kay Upbeat with Kelvinator Headstock

Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1950's Kay "Upbeat" Archtop | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Kay Upbeat Semi Guitar, late 50's - Demonstrated by Paul Brett

Paul Brett

1959 Kay Upbeat

Dan Juke

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Kay Upbeat.

Build quality

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The Kelvonator headstock logo, a sought-after feature, might indicate a unique or mismatched neck, possibly from a Barney Kessel model.
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Features and functionality

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Kleenex pickups, usually clear or white, are noted for their clear tone but can be noisy, aligning with the Swingmaster's design.
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Comparisons

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The K8995 Uptown model shares similarities with the Swingmaster, including body shape, but differs in switch placement and body dimensions.
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User experience

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The Swingmaster model, noted for its variations, sometimes uses older parts, creating a mix-and-match aesthetic with historical value.
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Setup and maintenance

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It's noted that serial numbers, if present, are often on the back of the headstock, aiding in identifying the guitar's year and model.
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Using a flashlight and pocket mirror can help locate hidden serial numbers inside the body, especially tricky with f-hole designs.
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Value and pricing

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Restoring an original finish can significantly increase resale value, potentially fetching a couple of hundred dollars, depending on condition.
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