Kramer Guitars

Founded in 1976, Kramer is an American brand that has produced some of the guitar industry's most distinctive instruments. Initially famed for its aluminium-necked electric guitars and basses in the late '70s, Kramer is perhaps most synonymous with the '80s; particularly through its association with Eddie Van Halen.

Manufacturing a number of modded S-style guitars fitted with high-output pickups and double-locking Floyd Rose tremolo systems, Kramer's Baretta and Pacer models were often seen in the hands of some of the '80s biggest guitar heroes, including Whitesnake's Vivian Campbell and Motley Crue's Mick Mars. The current 'The 84' model is heavily based on the guitar that Van Halen used during his association with the company; minus his famous striped finish!

Financial difficulties saw the original incarnation of Kramer Guitars come to an end in 1991. With some of the founders moving onto new projects, the Kramer brand was sold to Gibson in the late '90s and has now become one of its biggest divisions. Producing a number of its popular '80s guitars and new models like the Assault and Nite V, Kramer's guitars are still aimed at hard rock and metal players looking for searing tones and unparalleled playability.