The Kay Guitar Company

Since 1890, Kay has been making instruments of the highest quality for both students and professionals

1,005 thoughts on “The Kay Guitar Company”

  1. Kay 1969 dual pick guards with dove ingravings
    Stephen C

    Hello
    I recently purchase a 1969 Kay with dual pick guards, with dove engravings on each pic guard. One dove is in white the other is gray In any formation available would be greatly appreciated

    Thanks
    Steve C.

    1. Re: Kay 1969 dual pick guards with dove ingravings
      Jeff Calhoun

      I have one just like this. The model number is faded but the era is about right. It is a solid top guitar and sounds great, however the action is high. I am taking it in soon to have it corrected. I have always gotten comments on how good this guitar sounds. If you know the model number or any further info, please share. Thanks.

      : Hello
      : I recently purchase a 1969 Kay with dual pick guards, with dove engravings on each pic guard. One dove is in white the other is gray In any formation available would be greatly appreciated

      : Thanks
      : Steve C.

        1. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... daniel d tubbs
          daniel d tubbs

          : I have one just like this. The model number is faded but the era is about right. It is a solid top guitar and sounds great, however the action is high. I am taking it in soon to have it corrected. I have always gotten comments on how good this guitar sounds. If you know the model number or any further info, please share. Thanks.

          : : Hello
          : : I recently purchase a 1969 Kay with dual pick guards, with dove engravings on each pic guard. One dove is in white the other is gray In any formation available would be greatly appreciated

          : : Thanks
          : : Steve C.

          hello i just got one the sound is great my mdel number is k560 number under that is 050976

          1. dual dove pick guards
            KEITH BURNETTE

            I have a guitar with dual dove pick guards no brand name on neck on back of neck it has WG66 that’s all I can find any help would be appreciated.

            Thanks
            Keith

    1. KAY K672 Swingmaster electric guitar 1963
      Joe Hagan

      I bought this K672 swingmaster guitar new in 1963. It is in very good condition. I have the original case it came in. electronics still works fine. I am thing about selling it since I now play a dobro guitar in a small band. I would like to know what price to ask for it.

  2. My father's old Kay Guitar
    J Carey

    My father has an old Kay guitar or at least he thinks it is a Kay. It is an arch top with the round sound hole. The tuners are like those on a clasical guitar. The only word that I can make out on the sticker inside the sound hole is Chicago. My father obtained the guitar in the earily 1930’s and it was used when he got it. I just would like to have some more information on the guitar if possible. Thanks J Carey.

  3. - Kay Bass Guitar "Vintage" Series
    warner brown

    I’m trying to find info about the value of this bass guitar. It’s very brand new looking and has one double pickup, it’s black with a white shell, says Kay "vintage series" on the head

    1. Re: 1930´s Kay/National Resonator Guitar
      Tim (via moderator)

      Daniel: hello! i have a similiar old guitar possibly. The National company licensed the Harmony co. and others to produce resonator guitars. So yours could be one of those. My resonator guitar is made of steel, but has been repainted so no label is visible. Any chance you can send a photo of your guitar?
      Thanks, Tim

    2. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Daniel
      Daniel

      hello! i have an old Kay resonator guitar, it´s from the late 30´s i think. the decal on the headstock is in shape of the national-logo, but with KAY and DeLuxe written on it! can you tell me something about this guitar? i´m from germany and noone knows about it!

  4. Old Kay accoustic- 'L9427'
    Brandi

    Just bought my daughter her ‘first guitar’ at a local pawn shop; gave her a budget and let her loose. She passed up some nice electrics and several shiny new accoustics for a cool and funky Kay -I’m assuming the ‘L9427’ stamped inside is a model number? It looks and plays good, and will be great with a little bit of work at the guitar shop, but I’m interested in knowing more about it. Where can I find more info on this model- the Kay site has no information.

  5. Kay L6650 Acoustic
    Shawn

    I recieved this guitar for Christmas. I’m wondering if anyone knows anything about it… year it was made… general quality… price… anything would be interesting to know. Thanks.
    -Shawn

  6. No markings in side???
    JP

    I have an old Kay flat top. There are no markings inside that I can find. On the headstock it has an aluminum plate glued on that looks kind of like a golf tee with a ball on top. The ball has a "K" on it and the tee has the word "KAY" on it written horizontally. Does anyone have any idea how old it may be? JP.

  7. Old Kay guitar, looking for info.
    Jeff

    I have an old Kay guitar that needs the neck reset. I’m not sure if it is worth investing in the repairs. It is in nice condition other than the neck. It’s a cutaway archtop and the only markings I can see other than the Kay name is a number inside ( K1 8901 ) could be model and/or serial number. Any info such as age and if worth repairing? Thanks

  8. kay classical
    Chris Adams

    Age ? Number stamped inside partially covered by Kay sticker. Looks like L 2616 or L 7616. Not sure about "L" or "2". Just seeing tops of #’s. Neck is very fat.
    Model # looks like "1965" written in red ink. Faded.

  9. Help!! (Please)
    Velma Dinkley

    I have an electric guitar that looks like it has the "Kay" Brand signaturon it. Not only that but I was told when I bought it ($65.00) that it was either a 1965 or 1968 model of the guitar. I just want to know if it is actually worth anything if it is an old model of the guitar.

  10. Kay Guitar
    Dwayne

    Trying to find out about a guitar that was willed to me It’s a Kay with double cutaway’s numbers inside the body are L3361 8989, thanks for any help

  11. Kay Guitar
    Dwayne

    Trying to find out about a guitar that was willed to me It’s a Kay with double cutaway’s numbers inside the body are L3361 8989, thatnks for any help

  12. My first guitar
    buddy

    I got this guitar when i was 9. On the inside it has printed p2 l 6350 n4. It has always had a great sound and easy to play. Any information about how old would be great.

    Thanks.

  13. old aucustic
    Jessica

    I have an old guitar with a label that says "university series" and Kay. It is a smaller guitar but not extremely small. Its model number is "KCL120". If anyone can tell me what this guitar is worth I would appreciate it.

  14. I bought a Kay electric bass guitar about three years ago and have never had much luck in finding out anything about it. There’s no information on it other than the fact it has a white plastic thing on the head that says Kay on it. Can anyone adivse me on how to find out what model/year it is?

    thanks

    Mark

    1. Re: Kay bass
      Jess M

      Well, Mark. I empathize with you. I purchased one a little over a year ago and have the same problem. I’m sorry I don’t have much more information than you except that it’s definately an old guitar, at least 30-40 years.

      : I bought a Kay electric bass guitar about three years ago and have never had much luck in finding out anything about it. There’s no information on it other than the fact it has a white plastic thing on the head that says Kay on it. Can anyone adivse me on how to find out what model/year it is?

      : thanks

      : Mark

    1. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Jim Tuhtan
      Jim Tuhtan

      Kay company folks; I recently found a Kay Vintage Series (with "1960" on the pickguard)hollow body electric that looks and sounds similar to a Gibson ES-175. Anyway I can find out the year? It is most likely a re-issue, not an original Barney Kessel era axe. I think it dates from either the early seventies or mid-eighties. No serial number is visible and the body is not hollow but instead has quite a large (and weighty) block. Any info would be great. It sounds great…

  15. Old Kay Acoustic
    James

    I have got a couple of Kay acoustic guitars. In the soundhole of one of them i can make out the word Kansas, can anyone tell me a little more about this guitar and possibly how much its worth????

  16. Antique Kay Electric Guitar/Mint cond/orig case
    Karen Beck

    Was wondering if anyone knew the approx value of my 1963 Kay. I can’t find a serial# but it is honey-brown outlined w/white,mother of pearl designs on neck,the Kay symbol of a music stand w/letter K in middle & big K at end of neck.Also have tube-type amp & mic w/stand(same age as guitar) Any info w/be appreciated. Thanks

  17. Kay P3 Guitar
    Frank

    I have a 1965 Kay Hollow body that has two solid core pickups in it. I can not repair the pickups and the people here in MN cannot answer what or where I can get the pickups. The guitar play smoother then my Gibson’s and Martin’s. The sound she used to make coming through my old Fender amp was very sweet and mellow. I desparatly wish to get her playing again. Any help would greatly be appreciated.

  18. bass wiring schematics needed
    reigh coolman

    Recently was given an old banged up SG style bass. i believe its a Kay model# K-2B. No pickguard. Two soapbar or possibly humbucking pickups not wired up. any info or pictures of wiring and/or pick guards would be greatly appreciated

  19. how old is my guitar?
    Bill Bosch

    I found a vintage flat top Kay guitar at a garage sale for $3.00 It came with the original case and several song books dated 1957.I took the neck off and re set it,repaired the bridge and beefed up some of the bracing. Now much to my surprise ,it plays and sounds great!
    The # inside says K15 7050 .Thanks in advance. BB

    1. Re: how old is my guitar?
      bennosteve

      Your Kay is about 50 years old

      : I found a vintage flat top Kay guitar at a garage sale for $3.00 It came with the original case and several song books dated 1957.I took the neck off and re set it,repaired the bridge and beefed up some of the bracing. Now much to my surprise ,it plays and sounds great!
      : The # inside says K15 7050 .Thanks in advance. BB

  20. Kay Guitar Wiring Diagram
    Dave

    Hi, My friend has given me a Kay guitar so I can heve a look at the electrics which are faulty. Does anyone know where I can find a wiring diagram? The Guitar looks to be a black Les Paul copy and it has a sticker saying W0.20908. Not much info I know!!!! Thanks. Dave

      1. Re: kay cutaway archtop 1955
        tom cranson

        : : Do you have any idea of the value, if it’s in very good condition?
        For a couple years I was following old kay guitars on ebay. I eventually found one that I liked, an old archtop, f-hole in very good shape. I bought it for about $350. I saw a couple cutaway archtops in very good condition on ebay. I’ve never seen one go for over $350-$400 unless, of course, they were the Barney Kessel modles. It seems to me that the prices have dropped in the last few years. If you’re considering selling, unless you find just the right buyer, you may not get more than $300. These old kays are beautiful, but they aren’t gibsons. Hope this helps you out. Take care.

        1. arch top f-hole guitar
          tom cranson

          So, about 7 years later, I sold that Kay archtop f-hole guitar on craigslist for almost $300. Someone wanted a “guitar that a Black blues player from the 50’s would be playing.” It was pretty, but I’m more accustomed to nylon strings, wider neck classicals. Much easier to play and, to my ears, a softer more expressive instrument. Take care all.

  21. kay classical kcl380
    Mike

    I have a kay KCL380 and I’m trying to find out how old it is and if it’s worth anything …..is there a website or anyone that could help

  22. I just boutght a 1961 Kay Jazz II at a garage sale for $10.00. The binding is coming off becasue of age and I’m thinking about refinishing. It has some dings, scratches and is missing the pick guard. Otherwise it’s pretty cool. Especially with the semi-Kelvinator headstock. Any suggestions for refinishing? Or comments in general?

    1. Re: Kay Jazz II
      Barry Lucas

      Kay Jazz 11: Hi John, I have a lot of parts you might need ! get hold of me [email protected]

      $10.00. The binding is coming off becasue of age and I’m thinking about refinishing. It has some dings, scratches and is missing the pick guard. Otherwise it’s pretty cool. Especially with the semi-Kelvinator headstock. Any suggestions for refinishing? Or comments in general?

  23. Just acquired Kay guitar
    Tom

    I just acquired a guitar that was my grandfather’s. I know it is a Kay. There are no other markings on the exterior of the guitar except the K on the headstock. From research online, I believe the model is The Upbeat (probably 1960) but would like to know for sure. The guitar is a sunburst color hollowbody with 6 knobs (3 volume and 3 tone), 3 pickups and a 4 way switch above the strings. Single cut away and Kluson Deluxe tuners. I see a number inside the guitar reading L5997 8995. Any help would be appreciated. I can send a photo if needed. Thanks in advance, Tom

      1. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Ernest
        Ernest

        : I just acquired a guitar that was my grandfather’s. I know it is a Kay. There are no other markings on the exterior of the guitar except the K on the headstock. From research online, I believe the model is The Upbeat (probably 1960) but would like to know for sure. The guitar is a sunburst color hollowbody with 6 knobs (3 volume and 3 tone), 3 pickups and a 4 way switch above the strings. Single cut away and Kluson Deluxe tuners. I see a number inside the guitar reading L5997 8995. Any help would be appreciated. I can send a photo if needed. Thanks in advance, Tom

        Hi Tom.

        Send me a pic and I’ll look it up.

        Thanks,

        Ernest

  24. kay hollowbody electric, need info
    keith cornell

    im doing a project in school called senior project, if i fail this i cant graduate. i am rebuilding an old kay hollowbody electric guitar, its kindof haggard right now it looks like someone started to make it into a lap guitar of some sort but its basically all there. where the soundhole is is cut out and all of the electrical is out of it. i have the pickup but thats it, if someone could tell me how the wiring would go and where the pickup goes id appreciate it. thanks

  25. may it be manufactured by Kay??
    Jean -Marc KULSKA

    Hello
    I’ ve bought an electric guitar for my collection but I can’t find any information about it/ may it be produced by KAY?
    may you give me some indications ?
    its an ALMIREZ guitar, a nearly perfect copy of a blond Stratocaster 71 . It was  built in the 80’s in japan by MUSICO. The woods and the varnish and even the capacitors have crossed all these  years whithout damage.  
    in this time japaneze firms built beautiful models  of guitars that are now very quoted on Vintage market.
    I would appreciate any thing about ALMIREZ or MUSICO ,  it would help me in my search  please let me know…
    Sorry for the trouble;
    Thank You
    Bye

    1. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Debra
      Debra

      Hi,

      I have an old laptop type guitar. It looks like that it says Kay on it, although I am not completely sure. It was given to me many years ago. I am attempting to find out the value of this item, but haven’t found anything similar yet. When I first received the guitar, it had weights and pics with it. It has a place for an amp, I assume, to be plugged into it. It did have an old case, but has since wasted away. The guitar itself appearance wise, is in great condition. I have no idea if it works, as I have no knowledge of how or what to do with it. If anyone has any information, please let me know.

      Thanks

    1. Re: 1960's Kay electric semi acoustic
      Phil

      : Imported from USA in 1960’s and purchased used in 1973. Dark sunburst, spruce laminate top, 3 pickups, 6 knobs and 1 4-way selector switch and a Bigsby unit. Not a radiator headstock – just ordinary with ‘Kay’ in silver coloured ‘handwritten’ style. 15" body, 2" deep. Old style original straight sided guitar case. Anyone know what model it is? It’s not in the ‘Blue Book’.

      1. Re: 1960's Kay electric semi acoustic
        Phil

        Sounds Like The Kay Speed Demon I aquired Secondhand Back in about 1968. Also sold under the brandname of Truetone.
        More details and pictures if required.

    2. Re: 1960's Kay electric semi acoustic
      geoff

      I have one of these and wastold it was a Kay jazz. It has grovers, bigsby, bell shaped black truss rod adjuster cover with kay in rectangular box, single cutaway,single top f fole, 6 m’of pearl inlays and decarative square dot inlays to front banding. Mine is the only one I have seen and causes much interest. It plays very fast and is equally at home with rock/jazz although middle pickup is sometimes in the way of picking but ok with small gibson heavy pick. Played in small venues/clubs through Peavy Bravo 112. Any one got a picture.

    3. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Kevin Murphy
      Kevin Murphy

      Imported from USA in 1960’s and purchased used in 1973. Dark sunburst, spruce laminate top, 3 pickups, 6 knobs and 1 4-way selector switch and a Bigsby unit. Not a radiator headstock – just ordinary with ‘Kay’ in silver coloured ‘handwritten’ style. 15" body, 2" deep. Old style original straight sided guitar case. Anyone know what model it is? It’s not in the ‘Blue Book’.

  26. Kay guitar?
    Amy

    My uncle, who passed away in 1980, owned a guitar made appoximately in 1972. When he passed away, my father took possession of the guitar and has had it ever since. I’m not sure how to describe it except that it has a "Sears" logo on the inside. After doing research I found that Kay made guitars for department stores back in the day.
    The point is that recently, my father broke the guitar, and since it was so sentimental to him, I’d like to find another one so I can get it for him for his birthday. If anyone know what brand this guitar is and where I could find another one, please enlighten me. Email me at [email protected].

    Thanks

  27. Old Kay Guitar
    Gary B. Double

    My grandfather who passed away in 1984 had an old kay guitar for which I know nothing about! There is no model number, nothing other than the Kay Musical Instrument Company logo on the headplate. I would like to learn more about the instrument! It’s in relatively good condition! I play Martin’s myself, but it does have sentimental value!

  28. An Old Kay Banjo...
    Robert Brown

    In 1984, my friend, (who passed away a couple of years ago) and I went into a music store and he purchased a new (then) Banjo, it is an Anteres, he owned a Kay and I think he had stated it was about 20 years old then. I now have in my possesion both Banjo’s and was wondering if you could help finding out the age of the Kay? It is in very good condition, by the way.
    Thank you,
    Robert Brown

  29. Replacement tuning machines for KD677
    Adam Ortiz

    Anyone know where I can buy replacement tuning machines for my Kay acoustic KD677?. The are the chrome enclosed type. None of the retail stores seem to have anyhting that works. Thanks in advance

    1. Re: Kay Model #K570
      John

      This sounds like the Kay I have as well. The dual pick guards on mine are slightly different. Mine is made in Korea and was purchased for me new in 1974 by my parents. This was the first year of the Korean made Kays. I am not sure how many years this was made. I had mine looked at by a couple of guitar appraisers (2008) and even though they had not seen one like it, I was told it would be worth (in good shape) 100 – 300 US dollars. It is my first guitar so it is worth much more to me. Hope this helps

      1. KAY "Dove" Dual Pick-guard Acoustic
        Dean Kesler

        I had been trying to find a KAY “Dove” dual pick-guard acoustic for many years. I was given one in 1975/76 as a Christmas Gift from my Mother. That old KAY helped to launch a successful music career. I looked everywhere and finally I found one! I paid $200.00 for it on eBay. I know that there is a loyal fan-base for this particular model but, I can’t seem to find a whole lot of info on it. It is my thought that the machine heads are not original. Where might I find this type of information? The Kay website doesn’t seem to heave anything.
        I now want to sell it and do not know what to ask.

    2. Re: Kay Model #K570
      Paul

      Its hard to say without seeing the guitar.
      Maybe you can send some photo’s of the guitar.

      Greetz Paul

      : I have come across a Kay model K570. It is a nice sounding acoustic with engravings on the back. Can anyone give me the approximate age of the instrument?

      1. Re: Kay Model #K570
        Lynwood Lunsford (via moderator)

        I think I may have a guitar like this too. Mine is an acoustic(the body being approximately the size of a Martin D-18) with sort of a vine engraving on the back. The label inside is hard to read but what I can read says "Model No. K 570" and then there is some kind of number beneath that but I can’t make it out. Here is the confusing part, the peghead is shaped like a Galagher guitar and it has "Kalamazoo" INLAID in the peghead! I have checked with George Gruhn and also with Gibson’s acoustic guitar expert, Walter Carter and neither one can identify it. I have pictures, if anyone would care to take a shot at identifying it. Also, I would like to sell it, if I could find out what it is worth.

        Thanks

        : Its hard to say without seeing the guitar.
        : Maybe you can send some photo’s of the guitar.

        : Greetz Paul

        : : I have come across a Kay model K570. It is a nice sounding acoustic with engravings on the back. Can anyone give me the approximate age of the instrument?

        1. Re: Kay Model #K570
          Marty Schmelzle

          : I think I may have a guitar like this too. Mine is an acoustic(the body being approximately the size of a Martin D-18) with sort of a vine engraving on the back. The label inside is hard to read but what I can read says "Model No. K 570" and then there is some kind of number beneath that but I can’t make it out. Here is the confusing part, the peghead is shaped like a Galagher guitar and it has "Kalamazoo" INLAID in the peghead! I have checked with George Gruhn and also with Gibson’s acoustic guitar expert, Walter Carter and neither one can identify it. I have pictures, if anyone would care to take a shot at identifying it. Also, I would like to sell it, if I could find out what it is worth.

          : Thanks

          : : Its hard to say without seeing the guitar.
          : : Maybe you can send some photo’s of the guitar.

          : : Greetz Paul

          :
          : : : I have come across a Kay model K570. It is a nice sounding acoustic with engravings on the back. Can anyone give me the approximate age of the instrument?

          I have a Kay model K570 that my mother bought for me in 1978. Curious to know what it would be worth?

          Marty

          1. Re: Kay Model #K570
            henry solomon

            To all who are looking t find the value and age…If the guitar has flathead screws, it is pre-1952. Thats when the phillips screw driver and screw started being used to fabricate the guitars. If it has phillips screws, it after 1952, and if the pick guard has no screws, it after 1970…My grandfather started the KAY company and The K570 is the most valuable. Its value, depending on conidition, besides a few ware and tare scratches through the years, can range from 6-8k dollars. If anyone could pay for such and item in this economy. But, as the depression ends, we may all be millionares.
            -thankyou to all.
            -Henry.
            : : Thanks

            : : : Its hard to say without seeing the guitar.
            : : : Maybe you can send some photo’s of the guitar.

            : : : Greetz Paul

            : :
            : : : : I have come across a Kay model K570. It is a nice sounding acoustic with engravings on the back. Can anyone give me the approximate age of the instrument?

            : I have a Kay model K570 that my mother bought for me in 1978. Curious to know what it would be worth?

            : Marty

          2. Re: Kay Model #K570
            Me Too

            I have a guitar like that too. Mine is an acoustic ("dreadnought" body size) with a vine engraving on the back. The label on the inside says "Model No. K570" and “Made in Korea”. The headstock is shaped like a Martin D-18. The pick guard has the orange and white circle Kay logo and a bird (with a nuclear logo) and a Native American pattern around it. There is a rosette around the sound hole as also. There are 20 frets. The Bridge has adjustable two screws. I brought at a thrift shop about ten year ago.

            : : I think I may have a guitar like this too. Mine is an acoustic(the body being approximately the size of a Martin D-18) with sort of a vine engraving on the back. The label inside is hard to read but what I can read says "Model No. K 570" and then there is some kind of number beneath that but I can’t make it out. Here is the confusing part, the peghead is shaped like a Galagher guitar and it has "Kalamazoo" INLAID in the peghead! I have checked with George Gruhn and also with Gibson’s acoustic guitar expert, Walter Carter and neither one can identify it. I have pictures, if anyone would care to take a shot at identifying it. Also, I would like to sell it, if I could find out what it is worth.

            : : Thanks

            : : : Its hard to say without seeing the guitar.
            : : : Maybe you can send some photo’s of the guitar.

            : : : Greetz Paul

            : :
            : : : : I have come across a Kay model K570. It is a nice sounding acoustic with engravings on the back. Can anyone give me the approximate age of the instrument?

            : I have a Kay model K570 that my mother bought for me in 1978. Curious to know what it would be worth?

            : Marty

            1. Re: Kay Model #K570 (what its worth)
              George Gruhn

              The guitar you all are talking about I would sell for between 1500-5000 dollars in my store. If youve got one, or see one, get it. I will give you up to a thousand depending on its condition.

              -George Gruhn

              1. I have one, k570 it's in
                Armando

                I have one, k570 it’s in rough shape, but it’s complete. If you are intrested, email me your email address and I’ll send you pictures.

              2. Re: Kay Model #K570 (what its worth)
                Gruhn Guitars - The REAL Gruhn Guitars

                The above post is an absolute fabrication. It was not posted by George Gruhn and Gruhn Guitars is not responsible for any offers made via a forum such as this. If interested in selling an instrument, please contact us via [email protected].

                Thanks!

            2. Re: Kay Model #K570 (what its worth)
              George Gruhn

              The guitar you all are talking about I would sell for between 1500-5000 dollars in my store. If youve got one, or see one, get it. I will give you up to a thousand depending on its condition.

              -George Gruhn

        2. Re: Kay Model #K570
          Mike Cote

          : I think I may have a guitar like this too. Mine is an acoustic(the body being approximately the size of a Martin D-18) with sort of a vine engraving on the back. The label inside is hard to read but what I can read says "Model No. K 570" and then there is some kind of number beneath that but I can’t make it out. Here is the confusing part, the peghead is shaped like a Galagher guitar and it has "Kalamazoo" INLAID in the peghead! I have checked with George Gruhn and also with Gibson’s acoustic guitar expert, Walter Carter and neither one can identify it. I have pictures, if anyone would care to take a shot at identifying it. Also, I would like to sell it, if I could find out what it is worth.

          : Thanks

          : : Its hard to say without seeing the guitar.
          : : Maybe you can send some photo’s of the guitar.

          : : Greetz Paul

          :
          : : : I have come across a Kay model K570. It is a nice sounding acoustic with engravings on the back. Can anyone give me the approximate age of the instrument?

          I have a K570 Ser #131176. It is in good shape and I am in the process of having the x-brace repaired, the bridge replaced, nut replaced and general set up. I like the engraving on the back and I am hoping to get it back this week to give it a test run. It is definitely a student low end guitar with a laminated top very basic three in one tuning machine heads and unbound body. Would like to be able to date it. I know the original Kay company went out of business and the name was taken over by a foreign company in 1968. Curious if it is pre 1968.

          Mike Cote
          Plymouth, MA

          1. Re: Kay Model #K570
            Danielle

            : : I think I may have a guitar like this too. Mine is an acoustic(the body being approximately the size of a Martin D-18) with sort of a vine engraving on the back. The label inside is hard to read but what I can read says "Model No. K 570" and then there is some kind of number beneath that but I can’t make it out. Here is the confusing part, the peghead is shaped like a Galagher guitar and it has "Kalamazoo" INLAID in the peghead! I have checked with George Gruhn and also with Gibson’s acoustic guitar expert, Walter Carter and neither one can identify it. I have pictures, if anyone would care to take a shot at identifying it. Also, I would like to sell it, if I could find out what it is worth.

            : : Thanks

            : : : Its hard to say without seeing the guitar.
            : : : Maybe you can send some photo’s of the guitar.

            : : : Greetz Paul

            : :
            : : : : I have come across a Kay model K570. It is a nice sounding acoustic with engravings on the back. Can anyone give me the approximate age of the instrument?

            : I have a K570 Ser #131176. It is in good shape and I am in the process of having the x-brace repaired, the bridge replaced, nut replaced and general set up. I like the engraving on the back and I am hoping to get it back this week to give it a test run. It is definitely a student low end guitar with a laminated top very basic three in one tuning machine heads and unbound body. Would like to be able to date it. I know the original Kay company went out of business and the name was taken over by a foreign company in 1968. Curious if it is pre 1968.

            : Mike Cote
            : Plymouth, MA

            Danielle, Jax Fl

            I have this same guitar. Found it on a roadside garbage heap… It looks and plays beautifully. I am curious as to its origin. I have been researching online to no avail?

    3. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Kenny Renew
      Kenny Renew

      I have come across a Kay model K570. It is a nice sounding acoustic with engravings on the back. Can anyone give me the approximate age of the instrument?

      1. K570N
        Sky Crane

        I have I have a guitar like that too. Mine is an acoustic (“dreadnought” body size) with a vine engraving on the back. The label on the inside says “Model No. K570” and “Made in Korea”. The headstock is shaped like a Martin D-18. The pick guard has the orange and white circle Kay logo and a bird (with a nuclear logo) and a Native American pattern around it. There is a rosette around the sound hole as also. There are 20 frets. The Bridge has adjustable two screws. Can you tell me anything about this beautiful, deeply melodic guitar? I got it in a pawn shop in Jan of ’79, have taken much better care of it than myself, ( lol!) it’s still in beautiful condition.

      2. I’ve just come across a K570 at a flee Market it needs some work done to it. I would like to know we’re I can get the parts to replace the ones that are in bad shape. My email is listed can anyone with knowledge of this kind of guitar get in touch with me the numbers inside are K570 and 121176.

  30. just bought a good looking kay n-6. no serial numbers to be found, looks like combed plywood construction under a sunburst stain. it sounds nice but it has phos/bronze strings and is too clangy, will switch to something warmer. does anyone have a n-6 or any info/history on them? thanks.

    1. Re: kay n-6
      Paul

      Hi Brian,

      If your guitar is an original Kay N6 acoustic archtop, it than dates back to the late 50’s.
      You could try switching to heavier strings, wich will provide a warmer and deeper sound.
      Good luck!

      Paul

      : just bought a good looking kay n-6. no serial numbers to be found, looks like combed plywood construction under a sunburst stain. it sounds nice but it has phos/bronze strings and is too clangy, will switch to something warmer. does anyone have a n-6 or any info/history on them? thanks.

    1. hi claire, i have one of these too. just to make sure, it is a double cut away electric guitar with a single pickup and fender strat style headstock? i have had mine for a while now and tried to find out stuff about it but was not highly successful in doing so but i found out a bit about the company kay. so far i have gatherewd that they were a chicago based company in the early 1900s and made good quality guitars used by many good musicians including barney kessel, but as the popularity grew they moved thier production to taiwan where they made the K200s and similar models. these guitars were not top quality at all, they were low budget guitars for the everage joe to play in his bedroom. these guitars were also an experiamnt to see if the ‘thin lite’ body design would be a success (look at how thin and how light the body is). this however wasnt anywhere near as successful as the heavier solid body’s such as the les paul or strat. i found my kay in my dads art room and it was in a terrible state, compass holes in it, a huge chunk of wood out the back, nail holes in the headstock (all the kinds of things kids do to thing is art rooms) and i set about restoring it straight away. the electrics were amazingly good given what is has been subject to in that school for 40 years. i stripped the body (which was coated in thick resin) and filled the holes and got it back to its original shape. then i sprayed it white and got loads of friends and family to sign it. its now just an ornamental peice that i play every now and again. its a fun guitar and is worth keeping in its original colours if its in an acceptable condition, if not then i doubt very much you’ll get any money for it if you try to sell so make it into a fun guitar. hope you find out more on this guitar. cheers, mike.

  31. need info on kay vibrato tailpiece installation
    franky

    i recently purchased a "new old stock" kay vibrato tailpiece. it is the old "ashtray cover" style. it has two horizontal springs that connect to a round bar that the strings load through. does this style of tailpiece function as a stand alone tailpiece/bridge or do i need a seperate bridgepiece for this ? also, do the strings load through the front and over the top of the bar or straight through the back. would like to get this straight before i begin my project. thanks for any info that anyone can give me.

    franky

  32. Kay acoustic Guitar
    Victor Lawson

    I have an old Kay guitar in good condition, it has a number L-1840 stamped inside the body, can anybody tell me how old it is and what it is worth. Thanks

  33. Kay Barney Kessel
    Dan Gioioso

    Can any one tell me how many kay Barney Kessels were produced? If so how many of each mode? No one knows including Jay Scott and George Gruhn.Thanks.

      1. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Paul
        Paul

        Hi Dan,

        The only thig I could tell you about the Kay Barney Kessel is this:

        Barney Kessel Pro.
        Single cutaway archtop, 13" wide, veneer maple body, spruce top, no F-holes, 1 or 2 single coil "Gold K" pickups, block fingerboard inlays starting at the 3rd fret, "Kelvinator" peghead, "Barney Kessel" signature on the silver colored acrylic pickguard, chrome open back Grover tuners, rosewood bridge, sunburst or blond finish. Available 1957 to 1961. In 1960, Barney Kessel’s signature was removed from the pickguard.

        Barney Kessel Artist.
        Single cutaway archtop, 15 1/2" wide, veneer maple body, spruce top, bound F-holes, 1 or 2 single coil "Gold K" pickups, block fingerboard inlays starting at the 1st fret, rosewood fingerboard, "Barney Kessel" signature on the silver colored acrylic pickguard, "Kelvinator" peghead, chrome Melita bridge, nickel Grover tuners, sunburst or blond finish. Available 1957 to 1961. In 1960, Barney Kessel’s signature was removed from the pickguard.

        Barney Kessel Jazz Special.
        Completed with the Gibson L-5CES. Single cutaway archtop, 17" wide, veneer maple body, spruce top, bound F-holes, 1 or 2 single coil "Gold K" pickups, split-block fingerboard inlays, ebony fingerboard, "Barney Kessel" signature on the silver colored acrylic pickguard, "Kelvinator" peghead, chrome Melita bridge, chrome Grover Imperial tuners, sunburst or blond finish. Available 1957 to 1961. In 1960, Barney Kessel’s signature was removed from the pickguard.

        The Upbeat.
        Kay’s less expensive alternative to the Barney Kessel Jazz Special. Single cutaway archtop, 17" wide, veneer maple body, rosewood fingerboard with pearloid block inlays starting at the 3rd fret, rosewood bridge, closed back individual Kluson tuners with metal buttons, large scalloped pickguard sometimes with silver sparkle, sunburst, blond or black finish. Available with 1 or 2 "Gold K" single coil pickup from 1957 to 1959. In late 1959, 3 pickup "ES-5" type model available. Made from 1957 to 1961. Full Kelvinator headstock from 1957 to 1960, half Kelvinator headstock in 1961.

        This is the only thing I found about it, maybe you allready have his information, but any way, here it is.

        Greetz Paul

        : Can any one tell me how many kay Barney Kessels were produced? If so how many of each mode? No one knows including Jay Scott and George Gruhn.Thanks.

    1. Re: Acoustic Guitar
      Paul (via moderator)

      Hi Lori,

      The value of your guitar depends on several aspects:
      * It’s condition, is in in a excellent condition or in a average condition? Of course a guitar in excellent condition is worth more than a guitar in average condition.
      * It’s originality, a guitar with replaced parts like the frets or bridge (string do not affect the value) will be worth less than a guitar with all the original parts.
      The same here for the paint and finish. A "beat up and worn" finish wil have a higher value than a refinished guitar, simply because a refinished guitar may look better but is isn’t original.
      *It’s value also depends on the demand, if the guitar has a huge popularity its will be more worth than a guitar that has no or a limited popularity.
      Rarity has only limited connection to value, because if there’s no demand, it won’t sell.
      *To summarize, for a vintage guitar to be valuable there must be:
      Demand for the model.
      Originality (unmodified, no repairs).
      Condition.

      Then of course the best way to see what the guitar is worth is to go to a couple dealers with your guitar and ask what they would pay CASH at the moment for your guitar, that usually is a very good indication for the value. Jusk ask arround.

      Greetz Paul

      : I have my grandfather’s old acoustic guitar. It is a Kay and at least 50 years old. I am wondering what it is worth today.

  34. Please help me.
    Robert E Dilcherd

    I have a KAY 8 string(steel guitar)or(hawaiian Lap guitar).It’s black and white.With volume and tone knobs.I would like a fretboard map,sheet music to play,tunning notes,and it’s value.I would be greatful for any kind of help or info you can give me.Thank You.From Robert E Dilcherd

    1. Re: Kay Acoustic Guitar With A Music Note On It
      tom cranson

      : Any one know any thing about this acoustic guitar i just found it in a bassment. I Realy need to find some info about it like when its from and what model it is. I been Lookin every weres on the net and there nothing about it so im thinkin maybe its old or somethin who knows well if any one knows get back to me Don’t you tjust love those old things. A couple years ago I started collecting all the different models of guitars I had owned in my life and started with that old Kay guitar with the 1/16th note spray painted on the front. God did I ever build some calluses on that fuitar. Worse action I ever saw. You can see these on ebay every now and again. I bought one for about $60 and have seen "mint" ones on ebay for $100. I still like looking at my old Kay on the wall where it hangs in my music room, and let my 3 yr old bang on it now and again. They are really sturdy, but, of course, are horrible sounding. Take care.

    2. Re: Kay Acoustic Guitar With A Music Note On It
      shelly

      : Any one know any thing about this acoustic guitar i just found it in a bassment. I Realy need to find some info about it like when its from and what model it is. I been Lookin every weres on the net and there nothing about it so im thinkin maybe its old or somethin who knows well if any one knows get back to me

      Had a 6-string (seems they were nylon) acoustic that spelled the word KAY on it’s head in white or cream paint, black body, tobacco sunburst with white or cream colored "painted like it was stenciled" pick-guard area, and included a musical note. Got it from my dad in 1968; he was a barber, and always took weird stuff in leiu of cash for haircuts in Rollingwood (now San Pablo, CA). Dad’s dead; guitar is long gone, but at least you know it was at least as old as 1968.
      Get any more info, pass it along for my curiosity.

      1. Re: Kay Acoustic Guitar With A Music Note On It
        Ernest (via moderator)

        : : Any one know any thing about this acoustic guitar i just found it in a bassment. I Realy need to find some info about it like when its from and what model it is. I been Lookin every weres on the net and there nothing about it so im thinkin maybe its old or somethin who knows well if any one knows get back to me

        : Had a 6-string (seems they were nylon) acoustic that spelled the word KAY on it’s head in white or cream paint, black body, tobacco sunburst with white or cream colored "painted like it was stenciled" pick-guard area, and included a musical note. Got it from my dad in 1968; he was a barber, and always took weird stuff in leiu of cash for haircuts in Rollingwood (now San Pablo, CA). Dad’s dead; guitar is long gone, but at least you know it was at least as old as 1968.
        : Get any more info, pass it along for my curiosity.

        I have a couple of these Kays with musical notes for a headstock. One of them is a 1938-9 Television model. Truly a beautiful guitar. Carved spruce top, Curly maple B/S with incredible flame!!!! MOP elipsoid inlay. Ribbon tailpiece. Grover archtop tailpiece. Very nice but not original. Sounds awesome. Got it for 200.00 USD from ebay.

        Also I have a mint beautiful sunburst model from the 50’s. Same deal with respect to construction. It has shark teeth or quarter note(?) MOP inlays. Bought for 300.00 usd approx.

        They were both underpriced by my estimation. Lucky me:-)!

        Regards,

        e

      2. Re: Kay Acoustic Guitar With A Music Note On It
        tom cranson (via moderator)

        : : Any one know any thing about this acoustic guitar i just found it in a bassment. I Realy need to find some info about it like when its from and what model it is. I been Lookin every weres on the net and there nothing about it so im thinkin maybe its old or somethin who knows well if any one knows get back to me

        : Had a 6-string (seems they were nylon) acoustic that spelled the word KAY on it’s head in white or cream paint, black body, tobacco sunburst with white or cream colored "painted like it was stenciled" pick-guard area, and included a musical note. Got it from my dad in 1968; he was a barber, and always took weird stuff in leiu of cash for haircuts in Rollingwood (now San Pablo, CA). Dad’s dead; guitar is long gone, but at least you know it was at least as old as 1968.
        : Get any more info, pass it along for my curiosity.

        My parents bought me one of those in about ’65 or ’66. Of course, that one is long gone, but I bought one on ebay for about $60. I have been collecting all the old models of guitars I had in the past before devoting myself to piano. Still looking at ovation 12-strings and, unfortunately, a Gibson J200. God, are those things expensive.

    3. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Brandon
      Brandon

      Any one know any thing about this acoustic guitar i just found it in a bassment. I Realy need to find some info about it like when its from and what model it is. I been Lookin every weres on the net and there nothing about it so im thinkin maybe its old or somethin who knows well if any one knows get back to me

  35. resonator guitars
    Robert Watchorn

    I have just purchased on of your insturments, i must say it is one the finest that I have ever owned. I own several other Guitars but this is my first Kay. We are planning to purchase both your metal mandoline as well as a squarehead soon, Kay will be at the top of the list for consideration.. I wish youo had a webb sight so we could purchase from you direct instead of mandolay bay…
    thank you ver much Bob Watchorn

    1. Re: resonator guitars
      Paul

      Hi Robert,

      There is a website: http://www.kayguitar.com.
      There are only new guitars, and I’m not pretty sure about how long they’re selling again and so on. There’s no email adress on the site or telephone number, so I’m not sure about it.
      But than again, an old guitar usually plays 10 times better than a new one. (at least thats my experience)

      Greetz Paul

      : I have just purchased on of your insturments, i must say it is one the finest that I have ever owned. I own several other Guitars but this is my first Kay. We are planning to purchase both your metal mandoline as well as a squarehead soon, Kay will be at the top of the list for consideration.. I wish youo had a webb sight so we could purchase from you direct instead of mandolay bay…
      : thank you ver much Bob Watchorn

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