Kay Truetone Speed Demon 60’s - Sunburst

This is a beautiful road worn Kay ‘TrueTone’ Speed Demon K573. A 3-pickup thinline archtop, otherwise known as the K573.

During the 1950s and into the 1960’s, the Kay company of Chicago was one of the largest musical instrument makers in the USA, which also meant in the world. Supplying guitars under a host of names to anyone who was interested, Kay products were sold in retail stores and mail order catalogs. Western Auto was one of the companies that Kay partnered with, and their instruments bore the ‘TrueTone’ name.

Kay instruments were used by professionals. There was a Barney Kessel model, and many prominent blues artists, including Hubert Sumlin of Howlin’ Wolf’s band used them. The Kay bass was one of the first popular electric basses, once Leo Fender introduced the concept.

Beyond the TrueTone name, this is a Kay K537 model, with an arched top and back body made of laminated Maple, a bolt on Maple neck with bound Rosewood fingerboard and brass frets, floating Rosewood bridge, trapeze tailpiece, and Kluson Deluxe single-line tuners. The original pickguard is intact and included. For electronics, three Kay ‘Speed Bump’ pickups were mounted, each with volume and tone controls. A four position, rotary type switch is mounted on the upper bout. The original nitrocellulose lacquer sunburst finish is in good shape, with a bit of wear and a few chips on the back and edges.

Sounds great, especially for a 50’s blues sound. Has obvious signs of aging, but as to be expected with an instrument that’s been played for 50 years! When I bought from Hanks on Denmark street it needed some electrical work done which I had done professionally. In full working order however some of the pickups sound better than others. For professional use, it may require some attention and upgrading. Selling because I have too many! Sad to see it go. It’s a rare beauty!

* Item comes with pick guard and screws, see picture