In 1962 EKO decided to produce a series of folk guitars, upon popular demand by Italian and foreign markets. After a thorough market research, the dreadnought shape was chosen, very much in fashion in the U.S. at the time. Initially the 6-string J54 was produced. It was an immediate success due to style, playability and price. It wasn't long until there was a demand for a 12-string version, which led to the J56, as it was named until '67. After just a short time, the J56 became the best-selling 12-string guitar on the market. In 1967, both the 6-string and 12-string went through a restyle and the new versions were showcased under the names of Ranger VI and Ranger XII. EKO is continuing the tradition of the Ranger with a Vintage Reissue version as 6 and 12-string. The Ranger is the guitar that very well represents the history of EKO. A guitar that has been very important in the past, continues to be very important today and will surely become more important in the future of EKO.