Aria TA-1, made in Korea 1999, violin burst finish. Sometimes a burst finish just ages beautifully, and on this one: yes, oh yes, it looks a treat. The dark red burst finish looks spectacular, especially against the aged cream double binding, funky trap tailpiece and the streaky rosewood board. These Korean-made Aria models were largely sold within Japan; they're lovely guitars and a massive bargain in terms of punch-for-bucks. The neck is a friendly slim round affair; easy to get your hands around. The body shows off some lovely grain and rings loudly and enthusiastically unplugged; it's a lively thing. Plugged in, you get a tasty warm 335-esque tone with a nice hint of slap and definition. If you're after a cheeky 335 style for a sweet dollar that'll well and truly keep you coming back, this is surely a winner.

Model: Aria Pro II TA-1
Made: Korea, 1999 (serial S94020154)
Finish: violin burst
Body: laminate maple top, laminate mahogany back and sides, centre block
Neck: mahogany, rosewood board, 12" radius, 24.75" scale
Weight: 3.340kg
Mods: none
Pickup: Aria humbucker x2
Case: none

Cosmetic condition notes: mild finish wear.  Headstock is pretty clean, note the truss cover is missing. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, there's some surface scratches but nothing nasty. Back is pretty clean, just some scuffs and surface scratches around the outside. The sides have no major marks, just some light dimples on both horns and near the jack. The front is nice and tidy, just some light scuffs on the shoulder and some play wear in the guard and top horn. Overall: very good condition (8/10).

Playing condition notes: Neck is straight, intonation is good, action is low, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. Frets have minor wear only, 8/10 for fret life left. Setup with fresh 11/49 Moonshiners strings.