Kay Jumbo Model K-8160 Model Flat Top Acoustic Guitar, c. 1965, made in Chicago, sunburst lacquer with stenciling finish, laminated maple body, maple neck.
"That's a whole lotta plywood" exclaimed one of our staff upon first meeting this jumbo Kay (everyone is a pithy wit here!) and that pretty much sums it up! The K-8160 was at the top of a 3-model line of budget flat-tops offered in the mid-60's for very low prices -- this imposing 17" guitar retailed originally at $37.50.
The trim and woodgrain are painted on, the pickguard is screwed to the top, and the logo plate is thin stamped metal. Even Kay's original catalog description makes no claim that this is a professional-grade instrument (the "Shiny Metal" tailpiece merits a special mention!), but this is still a well-made guitar and quite playable. At the height of the guitar boom this was a very good value in a large-bodied guitar, and it still makes for a good knock-around flattop with a great vibe.
Overall length is 42 1/2 in. (108 cm.), 17 1/16 in. (43.3 cm.) wide at lower bout, and 4 1/16 in. (10.3 cm.) in depth at side, taken at the end block. Scale length is 25 3/4 in. (654 mm.).
All original with some minor finish wear overall. No major damage or repair; neck angle is good and the guitar plays quite well. "Really has the Hasil Atkins sound," observed one of our sharp-eared and discerning customers (who are often very witty as well!), and this guitar does have an excellent if unsophisticated chunky tone. Excellent Condition.
