Manson launches new Knight Rider-inspired Matt Bellamy signature model

Manson KR-1
(Image credit: Manson Guitar Works)

Manson Guitar Works has unveiled the latest in its line of Matt Bellamy signature guitars, the KR-1.

With visuals inspired by Knight Rider’s vehicular star KITT, the KR-1 features a Stealthy Dry Satin Black finish, complete with black Gotoh hardware and a striking red Manson logo on the headstock.

Manson KR-1

(Image credit: Manson Guitar Works)

This being a model for the Muse frontman, the alder-bodied T-type is KITTed out with a versatile sonic arsenal, encompassing a Sustainiac Sustainer – controlled by custom black paddle switches – and a Manson PF-1 bridge pickup.

A coil-tap switch adds further flexibility, with Manson touting everything from “angular ‘alt’ brightness” to “full-fat humbucker-driven punch”.

And for anyone playing the guitar in the black of Knight, Manson has equipped a set of glow-in-the-dark Luminlay side dots to guide players around the ebony fingerboard and maple neck.

Manson KR-1

(Image credit: Manson Guitar Works)

Two versions of the guitar will be available: the KR-1 is limited to 80 pieces worldwide, and comes with a printed A5 certificate and Manson-exclusive Hiscox hardcase.

But there’s also the ultra-limited K1T-1 edition, limited to a mere 20 instruments, and boasting red anodized Manson custom hardware, as well as a larger A4 hand-signed certificate.

KR-1 and K1T-1 models start at £2,499 (approx $3,470). For more info, head over to Manson Guitar Works.

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Michael Astley-Brown

Mike is Editor-in-Chief of GuitarWorld.com, in addition to being an offset fiend and recovering pedal addict. He has a master's degree in journalism from Cardiff University, and over a decade's experience writing and editing for guitar publications including MusicRadar, Total Guitar and Guitarist, as well as 20 years of recording and live experience in original and function bands. During his career, he has interviewed the likes of John Frusciante, Chris Cornell, Tom Morello, Matt Bellamy, Kirk Hammett, Jerry Cantrell, Joe Satriani, Tom DeLonge, Ed O'Brien, Polyphia, Tosin Abasi, Yvette Young and many more. In his free time, you'll find him making progressive instrumental rock under the nom de plume Maebe.