Aria LC-500, cherry sunburst, made in Japan around 1979. Aria Pro II have a long and storied history; many of their earlier guitars like this were made at the famed Matsumoku plant that produced famous 'lawsuit' models by Ibanez, among others. This one references the classic Les Paul Custom, so it's got the split diamond inlay in the headstock, block inlays, seven ply binding and gold hardware. The neck is an agreeable slim sixties shape, it's straight and stable and makes for pretty effortless movement up and down the fretboard. The maple cap has some spicy mild birds-eye figuring in the grain, it's many charms accentuated by the bright cherry burst finish. Tone-wise, this has a creamy thick midrange and a clear, singing treble with plenty of natural sustain and bite. The neck pickup is dark and juicy without being muddy and the bridge pickup has plenty of bite without being harsh. This is a monster of a guitar, handmade with utmost care and blessed with plenty of personality.

Model: Aria Pro II LC-500
Made: Japan, Matsumoku plant, 1979 approx (no serial on these)
Finish: cherry sunburst, gloss poly, 4-ply black guard
Body: mahogany, two-piece sandwich style, maple cap
Weight: 4.550kg
Neck: mahogany, rosewood board, 24.75" scale, 12" radius
Mods: knobs replaced
Pickups: Aria AL-7 humbucker x2
Case: basic non original gig bag

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has some minor dimples on the end. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples on the back only. The back has widespread light scuffs but no major marks. The sides have some minor bites in the binding in the elbow are and some scuffs near the jack, no major marks. The front has some very light scuffs near the knobs, some dimples in the elbow area and some light play wear on the guard and horns. Overall: very good condition (8/10)

Playing condition notes: Neck is straight, action is low, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electrics tested and working properly. The frets have minor wear only, 8/10 for fret life left. No headstock breaks. Wearing fresh 10/52 Moonshiners strings.