In a significant collaboration earlier this year, Kiesel Guitars welcomed Stephen Carpenter, the iconic electric guitarist from Deftones, into its artist roster. This partnership marked a unique move, as Carpenter continues to endorse both Kiesel and his existing signature guitars with ESP.
Kiesel Stephen Carpenter Vader
New Kiesel Stephen Carpenter Vader signature models have just been announced. Recently, Kiesel revealed the fruits of this collaboration: two new signature guitar models for Carpenter. These models, anticipated since the initial announcement, are based on Kiesel’s popular Vader design.
Multi-Scale
They feature a sleek, headless structure, dual Fishman Fluence humbuckers, and a versatile 25.5″-27″ multi-scale build.
Guitar enthusiasts have two color options to choose from: the striking all-white Snow version, first seen in March and the stealthy Shadow variant. Both models are available in seven-string and eight-string configurations, with a left-hand option for each.
Snow
The Snow model stands out with its all-white hardware, including pickups, a hardtail bridge, and a pristine white maple fretboard.
This model is not only visually stunning but, as Carpenter notes, exceptionally challenging to produce, a testament to Kiesel’s craftsmanship.
Shadow
The Shadow model offers a stark contrast with its all-black aesthetic, featuring black hardware and a dark Richlite Diamond Black fingerboard.
Neck-Through Construction
Both models share core specifications: a swamp ash body, plain maple top, neck-through three-piece maple neck, and Hipshot Fixed Headless Multiscale bridge.
Additionally, they are equipped with Steph Carpenter’s signature Fishman Fluence pickups, with master volume and tone controls, a three-way switch, 24 stainless steel frets, and Luminlay dot inlays.
Limited-Edition
Carpenter expressed his admiration for these models, recalling his initial reaction to Kiesel’s craftsmanship during a March livestream.
The starting price for the limited-edition Carpenter Vader signature model is $3,499. For more details and options, visit Kiesel’s website.
More Information
Video
