Aria Pro II Backaroo TE500-ON Natural Mahogany 1977
Aria TE500, natural finish, made in Japan 1977. What a cool old thing. Aria Pro II was the electric guitar and bass brand owned by the company behind the iconic Matsumoku factory, before it's untimely demise in 1987. This is classic Matsumoku golden era goodness: beautiful woodwork, sturdy hardware, understated styling, excellent tones. It references the 1969 first ideation of the Thinline Tele, blessed with a semi-hollow mahogany body and a solid maple neck. The original catalog says it's finished in 'all over lacquer', which usually means it's a nitro finish, although it's trick to be sure. It sure looks a treat though, that's for sure. The pickups seem to be original: the bridge has midrange presence aplenty and loves a bit of drive, while the neck pickup delivers a piano-like plonk and clarity with impressive bass oomph. This is a charming vintage strummer, it's sure to draw out a grin.
Model: Aria Pro II Backaroo TE500-ON
Made: Japan, 1977, Matsumoku factory
Serial: C770133
Finish: Natural, 'all over lacquer' gloss
Body: mahogany, sandwich style join, chambered to be semi hollow
Neck: maple, maple fretboard, 25.5" scale, 7.25" radius, 42mm nut, medium C shape
Weight: 3.500kg
Mods: tuners replaced, holes adjusted to match, wired for middle position to be out of phase, pickguard replaced
Pickups: Aria single coil x2
Accessories: basic gig bag
Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has dimples on the end and bottom edge, scuffs on the back and some scuffs and circular scratches on the front around the posts. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, play wear on the edges of the board and some dimples and scuffs on the back. The back has dimples in the middle of the body, near the ferules elbow area and back edge, as well as widespread minor rub wear. The sides have minor dimples and rub wear all over, as well as some dents in the elbow area. The front has dimples around the bridge, knobs and F-hole, rub wear along the top edge and some play wear on the guard and horns.
Overall: very good condition (8/10)
Playing condition notes: action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. Wearing fresh 10/46 Moonshiners strings.
Fret life: 7/10, minor wear only