Best Kramer Electric Guitars: 4 Models Compared

Quick picks

Our 4 picks

1 Best overall

Kramer Focus VT-211S Purple

Best for: versatile tone and classic look

Body Material

Mahogany

Color

Purple

Dimensions

41.3 × 17.3 × 3.54 inches

Weight

8.82 pounds

View on Amazon: Kramer Focus VT-211S Purple Affiliate link

This Kramer Focus VT-211S features a mahogany body and a purple finish. It includes two single-coil pickups and one humbucker for versatile tone. The guitar weighs 8.82 pounds and measures 41.3 inches in length. It suits players seeking a classic Kramer sound with a modern aesthetic. The traditional tremolo allows for pitch modulation. This model offers a solid build for rock and metal styles.

Pros

• Mahogany body construction
• Two single-coil and one humbucker pickup configuration
• Traditional tremolo system
• Purple finish option

Cons

• Heavier than some competitors at 8.82 pounds
• Limited to three color variations
• Standard tuning stability without locking nuts

Good fit if

• You want a mahogany body guitar
• You prefer a mix of single-coil and humbucker tones
• You like the purple aesthetic

Skip if

• You need a lightweight instrument under 8 pounds
• You prefer all-humbucker configurations
• You want a locking tremolo system

Verdict: Kramer Focus VT-211S Electric Guitar offers a versatile pickup setup and sturdy mahogany build for players who value tone variety. It fits those who enjoy the classic Kramer look and feel.

2 Best budget

Kramer Baretta Original Series Jumper Red

Best for: Players wanting classic Baretta style and a single humbucker

Body Material

Maple

Neck Material

Hard Maple

View on Amazon: Kramer Baretta Original Series Jumper Red Affiliate link

This Kramer Baretta Original Series features a maple body and hard maple neck with a fast-playing satin finish. It includes a single Seymour Duncan JB zebra-coil humbucker and a Floyd Rose 1000 series tremolo. The Jumper Red finish pays tribute to an iconic design. It suits players seeking a classic look with reliable hardware for standard tuning or moderate vibrato use.

Pros

• Maple body construction
• Hard maple neck with satin finish
• Single Seymour Duncan JB humbucker
• Floyd Rose 1000 series tremolo

Cons

• Single humbucker limits tonal variety
• Floyd Rose 1000 may feel less stable than higher-end models
• Maple body can be bright or heavy

Good fit if

• You want a classic Kramer Baretta look
• You prefer a single humbucker for high-gain tones
• You need a tremolo system for moderate use

Skip if

• You require multiple pickups for tonal flexibility
• You need a fixed bridge for tuning stability
• You prefer a darker wood body tone

Verdict: Kramer Baretta Original Series Jumper Red offers a solid maple build and iconic styling. It fits players who value a single humbucker and classic tremolo control.

3 Best premium

Kramer 1983 Baretta Reissue, Ebony

Best for: Players needing locking tremolo stability and bright tone

Body Material

Maple

Neck Material

Maple

View on Amazon: Kramer 1983 Baretta Reissue, Ebony Affiliate link

This reissue features a maple body and neck with a double cutaway design for fluid playing. It includes a Seymour Duncan '59 Humbucker in the bridge position and an Original Floyd Rose tremolo system with an R5 locking nut. The package comes with a hardshell case. It suits players seeking classic Kramer specs and reliable hardware for high-performance use.

Pros

• Maple body and neck construction
• Seymour Duncan '59 Humbucker in bridge
• Original Floyd Rose tremolo with R5 locking nut
• Includes hardshell case

Cons

• Single bridge pickup limits tonal variety
• Maple body may lack the warmth of mahogany
• No neck pickup specified in data

Good fit if

• You want a classic Baretta reissue with a hardshell case
• You prefer maple construction for bright tone
• You need locking nut stability for heavy vibrato use

Skip if

• You require multiple pickups for diverse sounds
• You prefer a mahogany body for heavier resonance
• You do not want to carry a hardshell case

Verdict: Kramer 1983 Baretta Reissue, Ebony offers classic specs with a maple build and included case. It fits players who need locking tremolo stability and a bright, articulate tone for high-gain styles.

4 Best right-handed

Kramer Baretta Original Series Ebony

Best for: Classic single-pickup players

Body Material

Maple

Neck Material

Hard Maple

Hand Orientation

Right-Handed

View on Amazon: Kramer Baretta Original Series Ebony Affiliate link

This right-handed Kramer Baretta Original Series guitar features a maple body and a hard maple neck with a fast-playing satin finish. It is equipped with a single Seymour Duncan JB zebra-coil humbucker and a Floyd Rose 1000 series tremolo. The ebony finish pays tribute to an iconic design. This model suits players seeking a classic build with reliable hardware for standard tuning and stable performance.

Pros

• Maple body construction
• Hard maple neck with satin finish
• Seymour Duncan JB humbucker pickup
• Floyd Rose 1000 series tremolo

Cons

• Single pickup limits tonal variety
• Right-handed orientation only
• No included case listed

Good fit if

• You prefer a classic single-humbucker tone
• You need a reliable Floyd Rose tremolo system
• You play right-handed

Skip if

• You require multiple pickups for versatility
• You play left-handed
• You want a guitar with a case included

Verdict: Kramer Baretta Original Series Ebony offers a straightforward build with a maple body and neck. It fits players who want a classic single-pickup configuration and a stable tremolo system.

Specifications side by side

Kramer Electric Guitar Lineup

The Kramer Focus VT-211S Purple stands out with its mahogany body and versatile pickup setup. It measures 17.3 inches wide and weighs 8.82 pounds. This model suits players seeking tone variety and a classic aesthetic.

Other options focus on the iconic Baretta design. The Jumper Red and Ebony Original Series models feature solid maple builds and single humbuckers. The 1983 Reissue in Ebony includes a locking tremolo for stability. These guitars cater to those who prefer classic single-pickup configurations and bright articulation.

Who Kramer Guitars Suit

This range spans from versatile, multi-pickup models to minimalist, single-humbucker designs. You can choose between mahogany and maple body woods. Colors include purple, red, and ebony. Most options feature the classic Baretta shape with tremolo systems. Some models include locking tremolos for stability. You will find right-handed configurations in the list. The data does not show left-handed options. There are no mention of active electronics or piezo pickups. If you need a left-handed guitar or a different body shape, this specific list may not cover your needs. You should check the full catalog for those variations.

How to choose the right Kramer electric guitar

1. Check hand orientation

   You must confirm the hand orientation before buying. Most electric guitars are built for right-handed players, which is the standard for most musicians. The Kramer Baretta Original Series Ebony is explicitly listed as right-handed. If you are left-handed, you need to verify if a left-handed version exists in the specific model you want. Using a guitar designed for the opposite hand can cause physical strain and technical difficulties. Always check the product attributes or description to ensure the instrument matches your dominant hand. This is a critical physical constraint that cannot be easily reversed.

2. Compare body wood

   The body wood significantly affects the instrument's weight and tone. You should look for mahogany or maple construction depending on your preference. The Kramer Focus VT-211S features a sturdy mahogany body, which typically offers warmth and sustain. Other models, like the Baretta Original Series, use solid maple, which often provides a brighter, more articulate sound. The weight also varies; the Focus model weighs 8.82 pounds, which is a substantial heft. Heavier guitars may stay in tune better but can be tiring during long sessions. Choose the wood that matches your desired tonal character and comfort level.

3. Select pickup config

   Your playing style dictates the necessary pickup configuration. If you need versatility, look for models with multiple pickups. The Kramer Focus VT-211S offers a versatile pickup setup suitable for various genres. If you prefer a raw, classic rock tone, a single humbucker might be better. The Baretta Original Series models often feature a single humbucker design. This configuration delivers a focused, high-output sound ideal for distortion and high-gain styles. Consider whether you need to switch between clean and heavy tones or if a single voice is sufficient for your music.

4. Verify tremolo type

   The tremolo system affects tuning stability and playing technique. Some Kramer models include locking tremolos, which provide enhanced stability during aggressive vibrato use. The 1983 Baretta Reissue is noted for its locking tremolo stability, making it suitable for high-gain styles that require precise tuning. Other models may feature standard tremolo systems. If you plan to dive deep into the tremolo bar, a locking system is essential to prevent detuning. Check the specific model details to see if a locking mechanism is included, as this impacts performance for metal and hard rock players.

5. Match color preference

   The visual aesthetic is a key factor for many guitarists. Kramer offers distinct color options that define the instrument's look. The Focus VT-211S comes in a striking purple finish, appealing to those who want a classic Kramer aesthetic. The Baretta series includes Jumper Red and Ebony options. Ebony provides a sleek, dark appearance, while Jumper Red offers a vibrant, iconic look. The color does not change the sound, but it affects how the instrument fits your personal style and stage presence. Select the finish that resonates with your visual preferences and complements your other gear.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• best electric guitars under 150
• best electric guitars under 200