Kz Guitar Works SS-1 - Cherry Burst

The SS-1 series stands out from other ST models thanks to its long-scale maple neck and stop tailpiece.

The Custom model features Kz Guitar Works’ prized quilted maple on the top and lavishly uses big-leaf mahogany—the same species as Honduran mahogany—for the body back.

The fingerboard is crafted from jet-black ebony, a wood that has become increasingly rare. True to its status as a top-of-the-line model, the distinctive split diamond position marks are crafted from mother-of-pearl—another natural material that has become increasingly scarce in recent years.

The solid-body construction deliberately utilizes lightweight woods, and the newly developed RS joint (rear-mounted) delivers a rich body resonance. The newly developed Versa pickups produce a sound that is both modern and vintage.

A pin switch has been deliberately chosen for the pickup selector. In addition to turning each pickup on and off individually, it allows all three pickups to be engaged simultaneously—a feature not available with a standard lever switch. Combined with the rear pickup’s coil tap, you can find your preferred combination and use it as a preset, or conveniently switch combinations to add a unique touch during recording sessions.

The clicky, mechanical action provides a fun playing experience and is surprisingly addictive.

This model is finished in a traditional cherry sunburst color. The combination of quilted maple and cherry sunburst was a signature look for Valley Arts and other leading custom guitar builders of the 1980s. This model features a subdued red hue that adds a touch of sophistication.

To bring out the color to its fullest potential, this is Kz Guitar Works’ first model to feature an all-lacquer finish, meticulously applied from the base coat up.

You can enjoy how the sound and appearance evolve over time, making this a guitar designed for long-term enjoyment.

Weighing in at 3.39 kg, this is the lightest model in the SS-1 series, which features select woods.

It boasts a look that will be easily embraced even by those accustomed to playing Les Pauls.

SS-1 Custom Features

・648mm (25.5-inch) scale length

・Neck & headstock binding

・Solid ebony fingerboard

・Mother-of-pearl split diamond position marks

・Tune-O-Matic bridge & tailpiece

・Selected quilted maple top

・Big-leaf mahogany body back

・Solid-body construction

・Body top binding

・Pins-tufted selector switch

・Gold hardware

・All-lacquer finish

Kz Guitar Works SS-1 Series

MGK (Miyaji Guitars Kanda) exclusive order.

Developed alongside the Kz Versa, the Kz Guitar Works SS-1 Series is a special model that incorporates the specifications of the ST model we had long envisioned at our shop.

Paying homage to the US-1 once sold by G Company, we have recreated the pure maple top and mahogany back that was not possible at the time.

The G Company US-1 from the 1980s featured a thin maple veneer on the surface, with a material similar to balsa wood underneath.

This model uses only select maple and mahogany. With nearly 40 years having passed, we believe this is the perfect opportunity to discover the true potential of this hidden gem.

We have selected big-leaf mahogany from Honduras as our premium wood. Furthermore, we have chosen a TOM bridge and aluminum tailpiece to ensure the wood’s natural characteristics are not compromised. The unique sound resulting from the top wood is another feature to enjoy.

*The SS-1 Standard features a mahogany body.

The use of the TOM bridge allows for a neck angle similar to that of a set-neck guitar, offering a playing feel and string tension distinct from conventional Strat-type guitars. The sound benefits of the newly developed back-mounted RS joint are also not to be missed.

The newly developed Kz Versa pickup, equipped with coil tapping, offers versatility suitable for everything from cutting to solo playing.

The Kz Guitar Works SS-1 is a special series crafted by Kz Guitar Works, which utilizes generously selected woods and possesses guitar-making skills officially endorsed by Queen guitarist Brian May.

This model will likely evoke nostalgia for those who lived through the heyday of 80s super-Strats, while appearing fresh to modern users. If you’re looking for a Strat-style guitar that stands out from the crowd today, this is definitely an option to consider.

We invite you to pick one up and experience it for yourself.

Neck: Maple

Neck Grip: Bolt-on Slim C

Fingerboard: Madagascar Rosewood

Scale: 648mm (25.5")

Fingerboard Radius: Compound Radius 10“-14”R (254-356mm)

Frets: Jescar FW55090

Machine Head Tuners: GOTOH SG381-05PW MG-T L6

Nut: Cow Bone

Body Top: Hard Maple 2-Piece with Ivory Binding

Body: Big Leaf Mahogany 3-Piece with Back Contour

Solid Body

Pickups: Kz Versa Single (N & M), Kz Versa Humbucker (B)

Controls: Volume x1, Tone w/Push-Pull (Coil-Tap) x1, 5-Way Lever Switch

Bridge: T.O.M

Hardware: Gold

Finish: All-Lacquer

Gig Bag Included

3.39 kg