Kramer Explorer Guitars

The Kramer Explorer is actually just an Explorer shaped guitar. It is actually called the Kramer Imperial.

It has been reviewed at a few other guitar forums around the internet. but we're hoping to get some feedback here in our Kramer forum. Punch a few keys and post some Kramer Imperial information and pics in our forum here. the Imperial is a classic ax and available on the used market for the Imperial enthusiasts or fans of explorer-style electric guitars.

About Kramer Explorers

Kramer guitars used to be manufactured in the USA. Unfortunately this is no longer the case as with some many other American companies. The global trade concept was too much for yet another American manufacturer.

They were bought out by a larger guitar manufacturer and production was moved overseas to cut manufacturing expenses. Quality control may have been one of the departments where they save on their manufacturing costs.

I have heard and read many complaints regarding their decline in quality and craftsmanship but have never personally owned one. I definitely could use some more info on these guitars.

Their website, kramerguitars.com, does not show any sign of an Explorer shaped Imperial, and no mention of any upcoming resurrection of the Imperial either.

According to their website, they are the meanest shred division of the Gibson company so one could assume that if the Imperial is not depicted in the shred division, it could be a lost cause.

Kramer Guitars, being a well-established brand, has an extensive distribution network that includes international distributors. This means that Kramer guitars are available for purchase in many countries around the world through authorized dealers and retailers.

Having international distributors allows Kramer Guitars to reach a broader customer base and make their instruments more easily accessible to players outside of the USA.

If you are interested in purchasing a Kramer guitar and you are located outside of the United States, you can check Kramer's official website or contact their customer support to find out the list of authorized dealers and distributors in your region.

Kramer Explorer Guitar Forum

Watch for the return of the Kramer forum...

Kramer for Dummies

For those who are unfamiliar with the Kramer brand, this is what I call "Kramer for dummies". The first Kramer guitar was made in 1976. Kramer Guitars was founded by Dennis Berardi, Gary Kramer, and Henry Vaccaro in New Jersey, USA. The company quickly gained prominence for its innovative designs and quality instruments.

In 1976, Kramer introduced its first production model, which was known as the "Kramer Standard." The Kramer Standard was a solid-body electric guitar that featured a unique aluminum neck and headstock design, setting it apart from other guitars on the market at the time.

Kramer's aluminum necks were a defining feature of their early guitars and contributed to the instruments' stability and sustain. This innovation helped establish Kramer as a reputable brand, and their guitars became popular among many professional musicians.

Throughout the late 1970s and 1980s, Kramer Guitars continued to expand its lineup, offering a wide range of electric guitars and basses. They gained further recognition for their association with various artists, including Eddie Van Halen, who famously played a customized Kramer guitar.

Over the years, Kramer has gone through various changes in ownership and manufacturing locations, but their legacy as a pioneering guitar brand and their contributions to the music industry have remained. Today, Kramer Guitars continues to produce instruments that pay homage to their rich history while incorporating modern features and designs.

Pros and Cons of Kramers

Kramer Guitars, known for its electric guitars and basses, has received a mix of feedback from customers and players. While many players are highly satisfied with their Kramer instruments, there have been some complaints or criticisms voiced by certain individuals, including:

1. Quality Control: Some players have reported issues with quality control, such as minor cosmetic flaws, uneven fretwork, or sharp fret ends on certain guitars.
2. Setup: Some customers have mentioned that their Kramer guitars required additional setup adjustments out of the box to achieve optimal playability and intonation.
3. Electronics and Hardware: There have been occasional reports of electronics or hardware issues, such as loose components or pickups that may not meet certain players' preferences.
4. Finish Durability: A few players have expressed concerns about the durability of certain finishes or paint jobs on their Kramer guitars.
5. Weight: Some players have commented on the weight of certain Kramer guitar models, which may be a concern for those seeking lighter instruments.

remember that individual experiences can vary widely, and many other customers have had positive experiences with Kramer Guitars. Kramer is a reputable brand with a long history of producing high-quality instruments that cater to players in various musical styles.

Guitarists also love Kramer Guitars, and the brand has developed a dedicated fan base over the years. Some of the reasons why guitarists appreciate Kramer Guitars include:

1. Heritage and History: Kramer Guitars has a rich history that dates back to the late 1970s and early 1980s when they gained popularity for their innovative designs and associations with famous artists like Eddie Van Halen. This heritage has given the brand a sense of nostalgia and authenticity that resonates with many players.
2. Iconic Designs: Kramer is known for its iconic guitar designs, including the Baretta, Pacer, and various artist signature models. These visually striking instruments have become synonymous with certain eras of rock and metal music.
3. Versatility: While Kramer is often associated with rock and metal genres, their guitars are versatile instruments that can handle a wide range of musical styles.
4. High-Output Pickups: Kramer Guitars are often equipped with high-output pickups that deliver aggressive and powerful tones, making them ideal for players seeking a cutting and energetic sound.
5. Tremolo Systems: Kramer is well-regarded for its reliable and stable tremolo systems, allowing for expressive pitch bending and dive-bombing effects.
6. Affordability: Kramer Guitars offer good value for their price, making them accessible to a wide range of players looking for high-quality instruments without breaking the bank.
7. Signature Models: Kramer has collaborated with various well-known artists to create signature guitar models tailored to specific player preferences. These models attract fans of those musicians and add to the brand's appeal.
8. Continuation of Tradition: For players who have fond memories of Kramer's classic guitars from the past, the modern lineup provides an opportunity to continue the tradition and connection with the brand.
9. Positive Reputation: Kramer Guitars have been well-regarded by many players, and their positive reputation within the guitar community contributes to their popularity.

Kramer's offer a combination of history, quality, playability, and unique designs that appeal to a wide range of guitarists.

Other Explorer style guitars...

See also: Agile | Aria Pro | Cort | Dean | Dommenget | Epiphone | ESP | Gordon Smith | Hamer | Ibanez | Jackson | Kramer | LTD | O Hagan | Peavey | Tokai