Aria Pro II PE-190 Robert Conti MIJ Archtop Jazz Guitar Made In Japan 1981 Matsumoku

Updated video available below!

The item up for your consideration is an Aria Pro II PE-190 Robert Conti model jazz guitar made in Japan. This instrument was likely made in 1981 according to serial number lookup. Some of these Aria instruments are hard to date with any level of certainty. You have to reference the model production time frame with the serial number. Given that, this was likely made in the famed Matsumoku factory in 1981. With similar dimensions to the coveted L-5 these instruments are desirable, well-built, lower cost alternatives.

While this instrument was in the middle of a complete restoration, it is fully functional but is being sold as is. Only cosmetic issues exists at this time. What you see is what you get. So please inspect the photos with care and attention. I have also uploaded a video with audio of the guitar. I feel I'm at the point that any further investment in time and/or materials just isn't economically feasible. Therefore, I'm offering this up as is, to anyone that wants to enjoy it as it is.

The guitar itself was delivered to me with a non-functioning Charlie Christian pickup. It was brought into a local luthier, per sellers request, who found that the magnetic block was broken in half. There were also several finish cracks on the top and one on the back. After much consideration, I decided to keep the instrument and restore this to playing condition.

Below is the work that was done:

Removed the Charlie Christian pickup and replaced with a Seymour Duncan Seth Lover humbucker. I did not fill the three holes that were used as the previous mounting method for the CC pickup.

Replaced all the electronics for the pickup system including pots, capacitor, resistors (treble bleed) and output jack. There were two output jacks upon receiving instrument. I have not patched the unused jack as seen in photos.

Removed the top finish. It was a pretty thick poly that I felt hindered a bit of breath in the top. Additionally there were numerous finish cracks that were quite unsightly. Since this had to be sanded off, as neither heat nor stripper worked, there a several sand spots. I count about a dozen. Several would be hidden under the pickguard once that is replaced. A few of the finish cracks are still visible as ghost images due to discoloration of the wood. Nothing structural.

The top was refinished with a very light coat of shellac via French Polish.

Replaced the old bridge with a new Graph-Tech Archtop bridge for better intonation.

Routed out the old Pro II headstock logo and had a professionally cut MOP inlay of the "Aria" text which I think looks more elegant. I still needed to complete the filler and repaint to blend into rest of headstock.

Tuners function well as is.

Pickguard will need to be replaced as mentioned. The original could not be repurposed due to the old pickup configuration.

I was in the process of refinishing the sides and back as can be seen near the tailpiece. Heat seemed to be more effective for this portion. There are a few finish cracks and dings on back

Guitar plays smoothly and sounds fantastic. It has a wonderful bright and glass like and tone. There is also a nice breath of air in its responsiveness as well. Low action and adjustable via bridge.

Please review the video I posted below for sound samples. The instrument was recorded acoustically through a United Twin87 and electrically through a Supro 64 Reverb again through the United Twin87. No additional processing was used on input.

Scale: 25.5"Neck Construction: 5 Piece MapleNeck Depth: 13/16" at 3rd fret and 15/16" at 12th fretNeck Profile: Medium CNut Width: 1-11/16"Fretboard: EbonyWeight: 9.2 Lbs

Will ship in picture Gibson hardshell case packaged with care and insured to final value.Please thoroughly review photos as this instrument as again it is sold as is. If you're looking for a museum quality masterpiece, I'm afraid this ain't it. But if you're looking for a fantastic playing and sounding instrument at a great price... Bingo.

This instrument is also offered for sale locally so please confirm it is still available before purchasing.