Unleash the Rock Beast: 1980 Aria Pro II ZZ Deluxe Electric Guitar
$$$ It has just been professionally set up and dialed in for optimal tone and playability. It has low action with no buzzing. The frets are in perfect condition and polished to shine like a mirror, it is truly stage or studio ready/worthy. Including New Strings, Perfect Intonation, Truss Rod Adjustment and Low Action Read Our Feedback and Rest Assured, The Dude Abides!
Introduction: A Vintage Icon Ready to Roar
Step into the golden era of rock and metal with this stunning 1980 Aria Pro II ZZ Deluxe electric guitar – a Japanese powerhouse that captures the raw energy of the '80s shred scene. Built during Aria's heyday at the renowned Matsumoku factory, the ZZ Deluxe was designed for players who demand bold looks, thunderous tone, and effortless playability. Inspired by the iconic Explorer shape, this guitar isn't just an instrument; it's a statement piece that screams attitude. If you're a collector, gigging musician, or tone chaser hunting for vintage vibe without the sky-high price tag, this ZZ Deluxe is your ticket to sonic glory. With its sleek black finish accented by fiery red highlights, it turns heads on stage and delivers the goods where it counts – in your hands.
Design and Build: Crafted for Legends
The Aria Pro II ZZ Deluxe boasts a distinctive offset Explorer-style body, ergonomically shaped for comfort during those marathon jam sessions or high-energy performances. Crafted from solid mahogany (or alder in some variants, but this one's resonant mahogany core shines through), it provides a warm, sustaining foundation that resonates with depth and punch. The body is finished in a glossy black that's as mysterious as a midnight solo, punctuated by bold red accents – think striking red binding along the edges, red pickup rings, or subtle red inlays that add a pop of aggressive flair without overwhelming the classic aesthetic.
The bolt on neck suggests this is a very early iteration of this model and it ensures seamless playability, with a slim maple neck that's fast and responsive under your fingers. Topped with a rosewood fretboard featuring 22 frets and pearl dot inlays, it offers that vintage feel with modern reliability. The scale length clocks in at 24.75 inches, perfect for bending strings and hammering out riffs with ease. Hardware-wise, expect a sturdy Tune-O-Matic-style bridge for rock-solid intonation, reliable die-cast tuners that hold tune through the heaviest dives, and knurled control knobs for volume, tone, and a 3-way pickup selector – all dialed in for intuitive tweaks mid-song.
Electronics and Tone: Powerhouse Sound for Any Genre
At the heart of this beast are high-output humbucking pickups – Aria's Protomatic V (essentially rebranded MMK 45s), known for their aggressive bite and clarity. The bridge pickup delivers searing leads with plenty of harmonics for pinch squeals and dive bombs, while the neck position offers creamy, sustained warmth ideal for bluesy bends or melodic passages. These pups are wired for versatility: crank the gain for thrash metal fury reminiscent of early Megadeth, or clean it up for punchy rock rhythms. Professionally set up and fine-tuned, this guitar plays like a dream – low action, impeccable intonation, and optimal string height for effortless fretting and lightning-fast runs. Whether you're plugging into a Marshall stack or a modern modeler, the ZZ Deluxe cuts through the mix with authority, blending vintage growl with contemporary punch.
Condition: Battle-Tested Beauty
This 1980 ZZ Deluxe is in very good condition for its age – a true survivor from the era of big hair and bigger amps. It's seen some action, with a couple of minor dings and light scratches that tell stories of past gigs without detracting from its overall appeal. These are superficial character marks, adding authentic patina rather than flaws. The fretboard and frets show minimal wear, thanks to a recent professional setup that has it playing better than ever. No structural issues, no buzzing, just pure, optimized performance. The black finish retains its deep luster, with the red accents popping vividly under stage lights. It's been meticulously maintained, ensuring it's gig-ready right out of the case (hard case recommended for protection, though not included unless specified).
Why This Guitar?
Vintage Value Without the Hassle: Aria Pro II guitars from the '80s are underrated gems, often compared to higher-end Japanese builds like Ibanez or ESP. Notable players like Dimebag Darrell (Pantera) kept one as a backup, while '80s icons from A Flock of Seagulls wielded them on massive stages. This ZZ Deluxe offers that pro-level quality at a fraction of Gibson Explorer prices.
Versatile Tone Machine: From hard rock and metal to blues and alternative, its high-output pickups and resonant body adapt to any style. Imagine nailing those Cliff Burton-inspired bass lines on guitar (Aria's basses were Metallica favorites) or channeling '80s hair metal excess.
Collector Appeal: As production models from this era become scarcer, owning a well-preserved 1980 example is a smart investment. Values for similar ZZ Deluxes hover around $800–$1,200, depending on condition, and this one's setup elevates it above the pack.
Playability Perfected: Freshly dialed in by a pro luthier, it feels alive – low action for shredding, balanced weight (around 8–9 lbs) for comfort, and stable tuning even after aggressive playing.
Ready to rock? Contact us for more photos, a demo video, or to arrange shipping. Don't let this black-and-red beauty slip away – it's not just a guitar; it's your next obsession. Grab it before another player does, and unleash the '80s spirit in your music! 🚀
This guitar is professionally set up and dialed in for optimal tone and playability. It has low action with no buzzing or dead spots and is an absolute joy to play. It has been deep cleaned and detailed. All guitars will arrive looking and playing great. The frets have been leveled / dressed / polished and the fingerboard was cleaned. (Unfinished Rosewood and Ebony boards get treated with Fret Doctor - a proprietary all natural oil that is the best on the market) It has brand new strings, the action was adjusted, the intonation is spot on and it plays excellent. All the electronics work flawlessly.
**** We stand behind every guitar we sell and have consistently delivered quality that beats most people expectations, earning us a reputation for quality that is unrivaled. Simply put “good enough” is not good enough for The Guitar Dude’s standards. We try and make every guitar be at its absolute BEST to deliver on our promise. We take great pride in what we do and we are always trying our best.
* Neck is perfectly straight and the truss rod works with no issues
* Intonation is spot-on
* It has been professionally set up with nice low action & new American made strings.
* If needed, the frets will be dressed leveled & crowned, but no matter what they come looking and shining like new with no divots.
* All frets are polished prior to shipping when they are set up - They will shine like new!
***Please note that international shipping prices listed are minimum quotes in some cases. Certain countries are more expensive and will require additional shipping costs. Express services such as UPS, DHL & FedEx are also available, Please contact me for a personalized quote.
About Us
The Guitar Dude is a THREE time NAMM Top 100 Dealer in the world who has been selling some of the best guitars on the planet since 2009. Known for the most Killer Flame Top Gibson 1959 Les Pauls Reissues and classic Fender guitars of all eras. I make beautiful guitar porn, please follow me on Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter.
Often copied & imitated, but never duplicated.
Like what you see? Let me go to work for you.
I offer the best consignment sales on the planet! Find me online, just look for The Guitar Dude
For in-hand description, to propose a consignment sale or anything else please contact us
I offer a super relaxed layaway plan on certain guitars, that can be custom built to fit your budget and needs. It can be extended beyond 45 days in certain situations. If you are interested in a layaway plan, please contact me for full details.
Terms For Returns & Re-Stocking Fee’s
We recognize and accept a 7 day return policy as per Reverb guidelines, BUT intentions of the return must be communicated in writing within 3 day of receiving the guitar as indicated by the tracking. Unless the guitar is not as described, ORIGINAL & RETURN SHIPPING COSTS WILL NOT BE REFUNDED. There is a 10% Re-stocking fee for ALL guitars that are returned for ANY reason outside of damage from shipping or it arrives significantly not as described. Please note that we record demo videos to make sure our guitars go out exactly as we describe them with zero issues. We understand that feeling comfortable is vital to the purchase of a guitar/bass so in any case, additional measurements or in hand descriptions are available prior to purchase/shipping. Thats said, guitars travel a great distance some times and in transit things can happen. Also guitars acclimate to new environments and this can cause a need for a new set up or minor adjustment. It is acceptable and normal if there is for instance a tiny bit of buzzing or the need to adjust a truss rod. We are in south Florida and if you are in a colder or less humid environment it is almost to be expected. Please read our feedback and see what our customers say. The guitar MUST BE RETURNED IN THE EXACT CONDITION it was advertised/received or it is subject to additional costs & or repair fees. We are not a big chain shop, I hope you understand. If you are uncomfortable with these terms please do not purchase. There are plenty big chain shops that can absorb free trials and shipping.
Payment - Shipping - International orders - Import Duties
ALL ITEMS CAN BE SHIPPED INTERNATIONALLY. - BUYER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL IMPORT DUTIES.
I accept many forms of payment including PayPal Credit & Affirm. I always pack extremely well and ship within the USA via UPS or Fedex, all packages are fully insured with tracking & signature confirmation.
Unleash the Rock Beast: 1980 Aria Pro II ZZ Deluxe Electric Guitar
$$$ It has just been professionally set up and dialed in for optimal tone and playability. It has low action with no buzzing. The frets are in perfect condition and polished to shine like a mirror, it is truly stage or studio ready/worthy. Including New Strings, Perfect Intonation, Truss Rod Adjustment and Low Action Read Our Feedback and Rest Assured, The Dude Abides!
Introduction: A Vintage Icon Ready to Roar
Step into the golden era of rock and metal with this stunning 1980 Aria Pro II ZZ Deluxe electric guitar – a Japanese powerhouse that captures the raw energy of the '80s shred scene. Built during Aria's heyday at the renowned Matsumoku factory, the ZZ Deluxe was designed for players who demand bold looks, thunderous tone, and effortless playability. Inspired by the iconic Explorer shape, this guitar isn't just an instrument; it's a statement piece that screams attitude. If you're a collector, gigging musician, or tone chaser hunting for vintage vibe without the sky-high price tag, this ZZ Deluxe is your ticket to sonic glory. With its sleek black finish accented by fiery red highlights, it turns heads on stage and delivers the goods where it counts – in your hands.
Design and Build: Crafted for Legends
The Aria Pro II ZZ Deluxe boasts a distinctive offset Explorer-style body, ergonomically shaped for comfort during those marathon jam sessions or high-energy performances. Crafted from solid mahogany (or alder in some variants, but this one's resonant mahogany core shines through), it provides a warm, sustaining foundation that resonates with depth and punch. The body is finished in a glossy black that's as mysterious as a midnight solo, punctuated by bold red accents – think striking red binding along the edges, red pickup rings, or subtle red inlays that add a pop of aggressive flair without overwhelming the classic aesthetic.
The bolt on neck suggests this is a very early iteration of this model and it ensures seamless playability, with a slim maple neck that's fast and responsive under your fingers. Topped with a rosewood fretboard featuring 22 frets and pearl dot inlays, it offers that vintage feel with modern reliability. The scale length clocks in at 24.75 inches, perfect for bending strings and hammering out riffs with ease. Hardware-wise, expect a sturdy Tune-O-Matic-style bridge for rock-solid intonation, reliable die-cast tuners that hold tune through the heaviest dives, and knurled control knobs for volume, tone, and a 3-way pickup selector – all dialed in for intuitive tweaks mid-song.
Electronics and Tone: Powerhouse Sound for Any Genre
At the heart of this beast are high-output humbucking pickups – Aria's Protomatic V (essentially rebranded MMK 45s), known for their aggressive bite and clarity. The bridge pickup delivers searing leads with plenty of harmonics for pinch squeals and dive bombs, while the neck position offers creamy, sustained warmth ideal for bluesy bends or melodic passages. These pups are wired for versatility: crank the gain for thrash metal fury reminiscent of early Megadeth, or clean it up for punchy rock rhythms. Professionally set up and fine-tuned, this guitar plays like a dream – low action, impeccable intonation, and optimal string height for effortless fretting and lightning-fast runs. Whether you're plugging into a Marshall stack or a modern modeler, the ZZ Deluxe cuts through the mix with authority, blending vintage growl with contemporary punch.
Condition: Battle-Tested Beauty
This 1980 ZZ Deluxe is in very good condition for its age – a true survivor from the era of big hair and bigger amps. It's seen some action, with a couple of minor dings and light scratches that tell stories of past gigs without detracting from its overall appeal. These are superficial character marks, adding authentic patina rather than flaws. The fretboard and frets show minimal wear, thanks to a recent professional setup that has it playing better than ever. No structural issues, no buzzing, just pure, optimized performance. The black finish retains its deep luster, with the red accents popping vividly under stage lights. It's been meticulously maintained, ensuring it's gig-ready right out of the case (hard case recommended for protection, though not included unless specified).
Why This Guitar?
Vintage Value Without the Hassle: Aria Pro II guitars from the '80s are underrated gems, often compared to higher-end Japanese builds like Ibanez or ESP. Notable players like Dimebag Darrell (Pantera) kept one as a backup, while '80s icons from A Flock of Seagulls wielded them on massive stages. This ZZ Deluxe offers that pro-level quality at a fraction of Gibson Explorer prices.
Versatile Tone Machine: From hard rock and metal to blues and alternative, its high-output pickups and resonant body adapt to any style. Imagine nailing those Cliff Burton-inspired bass lines on guitar (Aria's basses were Metallica favorites) or channeling '80s hair metal excess.
Collector Appeal: As production models from this era become scarcer, owning a well-preserved 1980 example is a smart investment. Values for similar ZZ Deluxes hover around $800–$1,200, depending on condition, and this one's setup elevates it above the pack.
Playability Perfected: Freshly dialed in by a pro luthier, it feels alive – low action for shredding, balanced weight (around 8–9 lbs) for comfort, and stable tuning even after aggressive playing.
Ready to rock? Contact us for more photos, a demo video, or to arrange shipping. Don't let this black-and-red beauty slip away – it's not just a guitar; it's your next obsession. Grab it before another player does, and unleash the '80s spirit in your music! 🚀
This guitar is professionally set up and dialed in for optimal tone and playability. It has low action with no buzzing or dead spots and is an absolute joy to play. It has been deep cleaned and detailed. All guitars will arrive looking and playing great. The frets have been leveled / dressed / polished and the fingerboard was cleaned. (Unfinished Rosewood and Ebony boards get treated with Fret Doctor - a proprietary all natural oil that is the best on the market) It has brand new strings, the action was adjusted, the intonation is spot on and it plays excellent. All the electronics work flawlessly.
**** We stand behind every guitar we sell and have consistently delivered quality that beats most people expectations, earning us a reputation for quality that is unrivaled. Simply put “good enough” is not good enough for The Guitar Dude’s standards. We try and make every guitar be at its absolute BEST to deliver on our promise. We take great pride in what we do and we are always trying our best.
* Neck is perfectly straight and the truss rod works with no issues
* Intonation is spot-on
* It has been professionally set up with nice low action & new American made strings.
* If needed, the frets will be dressed leveled & crowned, but no matter what they come looking and shining like new with no divots.
* All frets are polished prior to shipping when they are set up - They will shine like new!
***Please note that international shipping prices listed are minimum quotes in some cases. Certain countries are more expensive and will require additional shipping costs. Express services such as UPS, DHL & FedEx are also available, Please contact me for a personalized quote.
About Us
The Guitar Dude is a THREE time NAMM Top 100 Dealer in the world who has been selling some of the best guitars on the planet since 2009. Known for the most Killer Flame Top Gibson 1959 Les Pauls Reissues and classic Fender guitars of all eras. I make beautiful guitar porn, please follow me on Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter.
Often copied & imitated, but never duplicated.
Like what you see? Let me go to work for you.
I offer the best consignment sales on the planet! Find me online, just look for The Guitar Dude
For in-hand description, to propose a consignment sale or anything else please contact us
I offer a super relaxed layaway plan on certain guitars, that can be custom built to fit your budget and needs. It can be extended beyond 45 days in certain situations. If you are interested in a layaway plan, please contact me for full details.
Terms For Returns & Re-Stocking Fee’s
We recognize and accept a 7 day return policy as per Reverb guidelines, BUT intentions of the return must be communicated in writing within 3 day of receiving the guitar as indicated by the tracking. Unless the guitar is not as described, ORIGINAL & RETURN SHIPPING COSTS WILL NOT BE REFUNDED. There is a 10% Re-stocking fee for ALL guitars that are returned for ANY reason outside of damage from shipping or it arrives significantly not as described. Please note that we record demo videos to make sure our guitars go out exactly as we describe them with zero issues. We understand that feeling comfortable is vital to the purchase of a guitar/bass so in any case, additional measurements or in hand descriptions are available prior to purchase/shipping. Thats said, guitars travel a great distance some times and in transit things can happen. Also guitars acclimate to new environments and this can cause a need for a new set up or minor adjustment. It is acceptable and normal if there is for instance a tiny bit of buzzing or the need to adjust a truss rod. We are in south Florida and if you are in a colder or less humid environment it is almost to be expected. Please read our feedback and see what our customers say. The guitar MUST BE RETURNED IN THE EXACT CONDITION it was advertised/received or it is subject to additional costs & or repair fees. We are not a big chain shop, I hope you understand. If you are uncomfortable with these terms please do not purchase. There are plenty big chain shops that can absorb free trials and shipping.
Payment - Shipping - International orders - Import Duties
ALL ITEMS CAN BE SHIPPED INTERNATIONALLY. - BUYER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL IMPORT DUTIES.
I accept many forms of payment including PayPal Credit & Affirm. I always pack extremely well and ship within the USA via UPS or Fedex, all packages are fully insured with tracking & signature confirmation.
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