Zager EZ-Play ZAD-50

Has a great finish look as well as a beautiful body style

The style is exactly what I was looking for in an acoustic guitar. It has Rich and full sound. Sounds like a $3000.00 dollar Martin

The EZ-Play ZAD 50 acoustic guitar was well setup. It is personally inspected by the owner himself. No flaws on cosmetics or guitar.

The guitar looks and feels great! Even though it looks like if it is delicate the firmness of it can last a lifetime

Just got it but Zagerguitars.com has a %100 money back Guarantee!! including shipping which I haven't seen any company provide as easy as they do and as small of a business that they are. I was completely satified with the kindness and helpfulness when purchasing the guitar and even after I paid for it they were still in the process until I was completely satified. Let me tell you that it worked!! :)

I am a beginner but I am impressed of it's custom architecture which is personally inspected by Denny Zager himself. If it were stolen I would definitely get another one just because of the holding of hands zagerguitars provided to little old me. Until the guitar was in my hands.

I copied these specs straight from www.zagerguitar.com.

("EZ-Play Modified" means...in Layman's terms....it's easy to play. One characteristic of his EZ-Play Modified guitars is that the strings are close to the fret board so you don't have to use unneeded effort push them down. QUITE handy indeed.)

- EZ-Play Modified
- Full size Dreadnought
- Solid Spruce Top
- Mahogany Back & Sides
- Rosewood Bridge
- Rosewood Fret-Board
- Gloss Finish
- Scalloped X-bracing
- Hand carved custom nut
- Hand carved custom saddle
- Hand filed frets
- Sealed Grover Tuning Gears
- Abalone inlay rosette
- Tortoise shell pick guard
- Genuine "Martin" Strings
- 100% money back guarantee
- Lifetime warranty

I write music in a myriad of styles ranging from Latin, to jazz, to folk, to rock, to Irish, to blue grass, to a modern adult contemporary type feel (I could keep going)- and incorporate quite a few techniques (including some tapping) to achieve what I hear for each individual song, and....this guitar can cover them all! I must say I do prefer the slightly darker tones of my Zager EZ-Play Martin Sigma DM-1 for the jazzier tunes, but still the ZAD-50 can definitely be used for them as well and sound GREAT while doing so.

Regarding the action...as mentioned in a different section, the action is very low. It's one of the characteristics of the "EZ-Play" modifications he incorporates into his guitars.

Regarding the fit...everything fits perfectly. All the pieces of the guitar are put together with expertise. He really is a master luthier.

Regarding flaws...I believe this one was from the "discount" rack...which means it had some minor flaw in the finish....and as with most other credible guitar luthier's discount racks...it looks perfect. It would probably take Mr. Zager himself pointing out the tiny flaw for anyone to notice it...wherever it is.

This guitar is new...barely been played, but from the looks of it, it's just as durable and reliable as my Zager EZ-Play Martin Sigma DM-1 which I've had for at least 5 years. And of course, as can be expected, my DM-1 has been wacked a few times by people and various objects both due to my clumsiness and others', and it has held up through it all. In fact, it's one of the main guitars I'm using in the studio on an acoustic album I'm recording, though I don't doubt that the ZAD-50 is going to have its own share of appearances on the cd either since it really does sound that great.

I've never had any need for repairs so I can't comment from experience on that...and as I posted previously, it's got a lifetime warranty...but regarding customer service, you communicate with Mr. Zager's son (Dennis Zager Jr.) who responds quite cordially and apparently as quickly as he can. The longest I've waited for a reply to a question was maybe 20 minutes...once. Every other time was within 5 to 10 minutes...and I've emailed him a lot. Perhaps I have simply always caught him at the right time, but I know others who have always received pretty speedy responses as well so I don't think it's just "luck." They really do care a lot about their customers and love to hear from them. (note- still, if it takes him a few days, don't be angry, I'm sure he's just mighty busy but will reply ASAP.)

I've been playing guitar for 8 or 9 years now. My other most mentionable gear is my Zager EZ-Play Martin Sigma DM-1 acoustic guitar, my PRS CE-22 electric guitar, my vintage 60's Fender Deluxe Blackface, my Mesa Heartbreaker, and then a few boutique pedals and some George L cables.

If I could have one thing added to either of the Zager's, it'd be electronics. However, my DM-1 was a gift that was given to me, and the ZAD-50 was a gift from me and someone else to a family member (though I obviously have frequent contact with it ;) )....and neither gift giving times could afford electronics to be added at those times. I believe they used to offer electronics to be added sometime after purchase if one so desired (at a cost, of course, but still reasonable), but since Mr. Zager just retired I don't know if the option still exists through him. Either way it's still not in my budget at the time due to studio fees and other expenses, but I'm sure if any of you wanted to know you could just email his son and he would tell you. (note- Some come with electronics, some don't. It's plainly marked so if you pick the wrong one it's not either of the Zager's fault.)

Finally, if I could suggest a guitar to anyone....it'd be any of the Zager guitars. They're made great, they sound great, and they play great...and they're not ridiculously expensive. What else could you ask for?



Sincerely,
Matthew Morton
myspace.com/mattmortonmusic
youtube.com/mattjmorton

not bad. the top is solid and the guitar looks good, however, the frets are filed way to low.

sound is alright, was expecting better from this acoustic after all the hype

the action is really low, but i think it is too low because any amount of hard strumming makes it buzz.

not sure how reliable the guitar is or how long it would last before needing a complete fret job and new nut to fix the buzzing.

i returned it so the customer support is honest at least.

i have been playing for a number of years and have owned a number of different guitars. I wanted to give the Zager a shot, despite the negative hype, but i have to say that after owning it i came to the conclusion that the zager guitars are overpriced. you can do better with your money, and i think the "string science" marketing etc. is misleading, especially for beginners.

2008 Zager ZAD-50 Acoustic, Dreadnought, Spruce top, Mahogany body, abolone inlay rosettes. Included extra picks, Martin strings, and to my surprize a tuner.

Sound is more than adequate relative to richness and fullness for a guitar in this price range!

Guitar was tuned and ready to play right out of the box. Although I am not an expert by any means, I could not see any flaws with regards to finish and workmanship. The little extra on string spacing and lowering, does make the playing more comfortable and helps us that are experiencing stiffening of fingers as we mature! A great looking guitar.

Not being a professional guitarist I am not involve with doing gigs, unless one considers family, friends, and grandkids as such. However I have had the guitar for several days, and during that time I see nothing in the workmanship that would suggest anything less than a full and long life for this ZAD-50.

Have not owned the guitar long and have had no problems requiring repairs. The warranty is advertised as lifetime and as I have visited the ZAGER website many times over the past 4-5 years, I have had an opportunity to read many reviews of previous customers. I took several years in deciding to purchase the guitar and even passed on opportunities which would have allowed me to buy it when there were special prices being offered. Based upon the dozens of reviews over the years I read and my personal experience of getting quick responses relative to questions I have had, I am very pleased with customer support.

I have been playing guitars off and on for 30-35 years. During those years I have owned several including Country Gentleman, several Ovations including the hollow-body electric Model 1617 which I have owned over 25 years and still play today. I believe that I have purchased one of the last of the Zager EZ-PLay ZAD-50's, but if they were available I probably would get another if something happened to the one I have. It is perfect size and light weight to put in car and take to family get togethers. The only thing that would have made me happier would have been if when opening the case a strap would have been included. That probably is not much to complain about.

A beautiful dreadnaught guitar with solid, transparent, high-gloss spruce top and enclosed Grover turners. Made in the USA, October 2008. Center-stripe inlay on back and bottom and abalone inlay around sound hole. Twenty hand-filed frets and a hand-carved nut for low, buzz-free action.

The professional, hard-shell case comes with temp and humidity reader. And an electronic tuner was included as a gift, along with a couple of picks and a free guitar lesson on zagerguitar.com. By the way...the case was shipped at no additional shipping charge with the purchase of the guitar.

The sound is bright and light. I would prefer a more warmer sound. I guess that could be achieved with heavier gauge strings. It comes with light-gauge Martin strings...and an extra pack!

The guitar arrived setup for playing right out of the box. I only had to fine tune it a bit. The action is light and easy. This, of course, is what Zager EZ-Play guitars are all about. Strings are a bit more distant from one another through the hand-carved nut and bridge, which Denny Zager carves himself...on each and every guitar. I've only had the guitar for a few days, so my review is bit limited.

The guitar is light weight, but still feels solid. The finish and tone I expect to improve with age. It comes with a bottom strap button only.

The customer support at Zager Guitar is second to none. Every customer is made to feel like family. You can write to Dennis and get a reply in literally a few minutes. Whatever it takes to support their product and make a long relationship with the client will be done.

I've been playing guitar on and off since the early 70s. For what I paid for this guitar, I'm amazed at the quality, benefits and customer support. I have PEACE OF MIND with this purchase. You can't put a dollar amount on that. The quality of the instrument is more than I paid for.

I got this on sale for $200 less than retail, at $495. In an music store this guitar would probably sell for $1,200.

Buying a guitar online is generally a risky venture. I wouldn't hesitate to buy from Zager Guitar again. Their customer support and amazing return policy eliminate the anxiety of online purchasing. The guitar can be returned, if I decide to, for a full refund...and Zager will even pay the return shipping. Unheard of with ANY other guitar manufacturer.

You can see features from others - it's the same model.

Sounds great - I would say it leans toward a rich sound. Most friends that pick it up really like the sound quality. I would give it a 10 but I don't have too many other comparisons so I assume that there are guitars that cost 5x or more that may sound better.

This is where the Zager earns its money - out of the box it played perfectly, the action is fantastic, and all the hardware was in perfect condition. Great guitar for beginners like me.

I'm 6 months into playing and zero problems - it's even taken a few dings and one major fall with no change in appearance or playability. My only minor complaint is that the bridge scuffed a little when I pulled out the pins to replace my strings - it was my first time changing strings so it's probably due to my inexperience, but I would have liked to see the finish be a little more forgiving.

Hands down, phenomenal. This past weekend I had a couple of technical questions; both of my emails were answered within an hour - on a Sunday night! In the current era of crappy help desks, Zager is a refreshing reminder that customers value good support.

I'm a beginner - started playing 6 months ago. The most important thing about learning to play is motivation - if you get discouraged, you'll quit. The Zager makes it easy to stay interested; because it's easy to play and sounds great, you stay motivated because you make REAL progress.

I made this investment and it's one of the best purchases I've made - ever!

I have recived my zad50 and the finish is as good as any i have seen this guitar far passes what I thought it would be. high quality

this guitar sounds very good and plays easy

guitar was set up to play on arrival in tune and easy to cord in fact I have had several guitars over the last 30 yrs.and I think this is the best sounding guitar that I have owned.I would recomend a zager guitar to any one.thanks James in tennessee

this guitar has good hardware and will last for many years.

denny guitars has a life warranty.no questions ask

if it were lost or stolen I would buy another.my friend has aj40 and a d45 I price wise I would just as soon have the zager it sounds equal to my friends

This is an absolutely beautiful guitar. Solid spruce top, mahagony back and sides and abalone inlay around the sound hole. It compares to much more expensive models.

This guitar has a beautiful rich sound. It sings!!!!!

The guitar arrived pefectly tuned in flawless condition. It had been packaged with incredible care.

I have no doubt that this instrument is of sound and lasting quality. The finish is flawless.

Zager customer support has no equal. The guitar is guaranteed without reservation and carries a full money back gurantee no questions asked. All my questions were answered promptly and fully.

I love everything about it form its looks to its quality and would not hesitiate to buy another if I were lucky enough to be able to do so. It compares to high end guitars like Martins and Taylors for a fraction of the prize. I am a novice player and I love the EZ-Play system that is easy on my fingers.

I was very impressed with the finish of this beautiful dreadnought acoustic guitar. It has a gloss finish, gover tuners, nice mahagony neck (21 frets) which has been designed to work with Denny Zager's "string science" method. This is a solid guitar with solid spruce top and mahagony back and sides. It was made in the USA this year. The cases that Denny Zager sells are top notch and come with a humidity indicater. Very nice! Check out their website at www.zagerguitar.com

I like playing folk music, which involves a lot of finger-style picking (like John Denver's style). But I also enjoy using a pick and strumming while singing, too. When I began playing the ZAD-50, right out of the case, it sounded like it was singing all on its own. The guitar is lightweight, which I love, and the sound is very rich and full. I've tested a lot of high end Martins and Taylors at the guitar shops, and the ZAD-50 sounds just as good, if not better than many other more expensive models.

The action is what makes a Zager a Zager. Denny Zager created a "string science" method that really makes the guitar easy on the fingers and actually a better player. I noticed the setup immediately when I began playing. My good friend was there when I got the guitar but is just beginning. I had her play the few chords she has learned on the Zager. There was no buzzing and very little effort needed to press down on the strings. This is all part of the "string science" that Denny Zager created. I was thoroughly impressed with the Grover tuning pegs, the rosewood bridge, the craftsmanship. The craftsmanship is superb.

I only just got the ZAD-50, and it's a new guitar, so it's too early to tell about the durability of this guitar, but because of the excellent craftsmanship that is very noticeable. I've seen used Zager's on ebay that were played a lot, but the finish was still excellent after several years.

There is only one strap button at the bottom of the body of the ZAD-50. I would have liked to have had another strap buttom custom installed by Denny Zager himself the way he demonstrates in one of his guitar videos, but they are not sold with two. The strap button that is on the guitar is a solid black plastic...looks like high quality. It's shaped to be dependable. I would use this guitar on any gig without a backup.

Customer support is where the Zager guitar company shines. The guitar comes with a "no questions asked, money back" guarantee. In other words, when one buys a Zager guitar, if you simply change your mind or decide it's not for you, they will pay for all shipping and take it back. I wrote Denny Zager's son, Dennis Jr. many emails with specific questions about the guitar I ended up buying, and he answered every email very quickly and with answers that were very helpful. The customer service and lifetime warranty of the guitar are two top reasons I did business with them. Plus the product is of the highest quality.

I've been playing since I was 10, off and on. I own a Yamaha FG420-12, a Martin-Sigman classical, a Fender Mexican Strat, a Martin backpacker guitar, and a banjitar. The ZAD-50 sounds better than all the acoustic guitars. It plays as buttery as the Fender Strat but is more comfortable due to it's lighter weight. If it were lost or stolen, I'd want another one right away! I love everything about it (the sunburst color, the beautiful mahogany side and back, the strong, beautiful neck, headstock...just the overall beauty of it that is matched by the quality of the sounds coming from it. It has helped me realize how much I do love to play when I'm playing this guitar. I compared the ZAD-50 with Taylors, Martins, the high end Epiphone Masterbuilt, Iverez, etc. I love that the ZAD-50 is light, yet sounds just as good as a $3500 guitar! One of my favorite features on the ZAD-50 is the "string science" system. This makes playing it so much easier, helping me deliver clear sounding chords. I chose the ZAD-50 over all the others I compared it too, because of three main things: The high quality for the price, the string science method, and the high quality beauty and performance of this intrument made by a master luthier who is also a very experience player.

The feature that stands out the most, to me, is how close the strings are to the fret board. There is less effort to pushing down on the strings.

The sound is very vibrant. When I play chords they sound crisp and full.

The guitar looks flawless. I'm not an expert on guitars, but after close inspection it is evident, to me, that lots of careful worksmanship went into putting this guitar together.

The guitar looks and feels solid, I don't see how it wouldn't last a long time. However, it is still brand new and it's the first week of me owning it. I don't think I can accurately give a rating for this right now.

I haven't had a reason to contact customer support, but they've kept contact with me to make sure I'm satisfied with my guitar. Their lifetime warranty reassures me that it is a quality product.

I've been playing on and off for 17 years. I own two other acoustic guitars (Yamaha and Capistrano). They sound nice, but next to the Zager, there is no comparison. The ZAD-50 is at a level way above. I would defenitely buy another Zager guitar. My favorite feature is the strings close to the fret board. It makes it enjoyable to play and my hand gets less fatigued. I'm able to play longer. Before buying this guitar, I was looking at Taylor and Martin guitars. I decided to try out the ZAD-50 since there was a risk free money-back guarantee. When it arrived I was very impressed. The Taylor and Martin guitars I tried out that sounded as good and were as easy to play as the ZAD-50 were way more expensive. I have no doubt that I got a great deal with the ZAD-50.

Solid Spruceand Mahogany, Abalone Inlay Rosette, Chrome Hardware

Wide string spacing fast action making this play very easy.

I have some hand issues after being injured and the Zager made it easy to play and produce bell like tones.

Other who have tried since it arrived are all drooling over the play of the Zager ZAD-50

The color of top and sides make this Zager a beauty, solid wood construction, rosewood bridge and neck, hand scalloped bracing give the strings a base to make great sounds. Adding Solid Spruce and Mahogany, Abalone Inlay Rosette, Chrome Hardware Wow!!

I am a disabled Veteran and always wanted to play the guitar, well I was sent to Denny Zager by the Gibson people. I think the comment was made off the cuff and they tried to sell me a Gibson anyway.
The cost was going to be about 700 dollars w/o a case.
So I went home without a guitar, money was not in the cards for me.
I spoke to few quality players and they both refered me to Denny Zager. I wrote Dennis a letter and I am now the the proud owner of the most beautiful Guitar I have seen on the market. The sounds I have made impressed even me and when I had the local shop fit a leather strap for me they went wild over the ZAD-50 and all thought I was made of money saying that they thought it was 1500 dollar unit or more. When the sales manager played it he in awe. I was beaning ear to ear and never told them the price. The string spacing and height made this thing place like I was already a master. The construction, wood workings and inlays are more than I had hoped for.

Next time you talk to Denny Zager tell him thank you!!

The mail is answered the same day or next if left over night.

The support made seccure in my purchase and the video helps amd owning this unit a winner.

am a disabled Veteran and always wanted to play the guitar, well I was sent to Denny Zager by the Gibson people. I think the comment was made off the cuff and they tried to sell me me a Gibson anyway.
The cost was going to be about 700 dollars w/o a case.
So I wne thome without a guitar, money was not in the cards for me.
I spoke to few quality players and they both refered me to Denny Zager. I wrote Dennis a letter and I am now the the proud owner of the most beautiful Guitar I have seen on the market. The sounds I have made impressed even me and when I had the local shop fit a leather strap for me they went wild over the ZAD-50 and all thought I was made of money saying that they thought it was 1500 dollar unit or more. When the sales manager played it he in awe. I was beaning ear to ear and never told them the price. The string spacing and height made this thing place like I was already a master. The construction, wood workings and inlays are more than I had hoped for.

Next time you talk to Denny Zager tell him thank you!!

2008 with case.

Very crisp bright sound.

No flaws that I could find.

Recently purchased.

Very efficient and attentive support. Lifetime warranty.

Am a novice player and it seems to be the easiest to play and best sounding guitar I have tried yet. I looked around everywhere but couldn't find a better value.

full size dreadnought,spruce top,mohagany back & sides,rosewood bridge,rosewood fret-board,custom nut,custom saddle,and hand filled frets.

sound is rich & full up and down the neck.

the strings are lowered,and wider spacing between strings giving this guitar amazing action.this guitar is modified by a true prof.no buzzing.

beautiful finish,mohagany back & sides.this guitar wiil last.

no problems,company has reasponded promtly.

this is a guitar i recomend to all.i will be purchasing a baby zager in the future.it sounds and plays like a 3000.00 guitar.noing of zager's past work on guitars is the reason i purchased this guitar.

made in USA 2008 20 Frets I think the top is laminated
Mahogany and Maple Bridge style is Zagers own Finish is transparent
Tuners are Grover neck style is thin cable tools and humidifier

I'am a beginner on guitar and suits me just great.
It has a beautiful sound and deep bass sound.
I haven't found anything that I don't like about the Guitar and many
things that I do like, the beautiful finish, the ease of chords on the fingers, the beautiful and full sound of each chord and its
Guaranteed for life.

Mr. Denny Zager set this guitar up perfectly.
Everything was just great and not a Flaw or problem anywhere in the
instrument.

I expect this guitar will last with the best of them.
I thin anyone could depend on this instrument.
Everything is solid and well built.

These are the BEST people in the business to deal with and I can't
imagine anyone or business being as helpful as Zager Guitar were.
The instrument is warranteed for life.

I'am a beginner with the guitar, but I was treated as a long time
customer. If this guitar was stolen or lost, I would'nt stop until I
Had me another Zager Guitar. I don't think you can beat them, but
you can pay more.

I just got my Zager ZAD 50. I was a little unsure about buying something that I hadn't tried out first. Befoe I got the Zager 50 I tried out a Martin DM. The Martin was very nice but too spendy. I took the chance and am now reaping the reward. Everyone I know that plays has asked where I got such a fine instrument - they are surprised to find out I spent so little and go so much guitar. Now if I could just learn to play like Denny Zager!

I've been building furniture for 30 years and I can tell that the fit and finish are flawless.

2007 Zager ZAD-50 Acoustic
Dreadnought
solid spruce top/ mahogany body
abolone inlay rosettes
chrome gears
extra stings, picks included; access to videos for maintenance, play, string changes, etc.
Acoustic only, so not as many features as acoustic/electric.

I am a one year beginner; mainly chords and strumming-style.
Sound is bright, but bass is still very evident.

The Zager system is made to be easy to play. Action is low, fret board a little wider, stings are extra light.
Craftmanship and beauty are superb!

One year later, daily play, still looks brand new.
Amazing ability to stay in tune.

The best customer service of any online company Ive ever dealt with.
Prompt respnse by email. Excellent help.
I have not had to have it repaired.

I began with a Takamine G series. There is no comparison in the eas of play, sound, and beauty. the Takamine is good, the Zager is great.
I will eventually buy A ZAD 80 Acoustic-Electric.
Support is outsyanding.
Stays in tune!
Easy on the fingers.

Solid spruce top, laminated mahogany back and sides. Grover tuners. See other reviews for all of the features.
Features that you pay alot more for with Martins and Taylors.

I am basically a beginner, but I like to go to Guitar Center and "play"
the expensive guitars. The ZAD50 rivals the big boys in terms of sustain, and bright sound. The Martins have a more full sound, but not by much until you get into the $2000 range. I paid $500 for mine.

The action, fit, and finish were excellent. I checked it out with the proverbial "fine-tooth comb" because I could have sent it back if I was not 100% satisfied.
The action, for me, was as if I had gotten it done especially for me.
You only have to lightly press the strings and there is no buzz.

I don't take it out of the house so I can't comment on it's durability.
All of the hardware and strap button are solid. The finish, as long as it isn't abused should hold up well over the years.
I have only had mine for a couple of weeks so again, I can't comment onlong term reliability.
Denny Zager being a professional musician I would think takes this into consideration when preparing these instruments.

My guitar was received 3 days after I ordered it.My emails have been promptly answered (within hours usually).
Having read other testimonials, many many companies could learn some valuable customer support lessons from the Zager Guitar Company.

I bought a guitar 7 yrs. ago and played it sporadically, so I guess you could say I'm not starting from scratch, but I wish I had played steadily all this time.
If it were lost or stolen I would definitely get another guitar from Zager, but I might spend an extra $250 and get the ZAD80. Not that I dislike the ZAD50, I just like the look of rosewood.
I looked at Martins and Taylors in the $600 to $900 range and chose the ZAD50 because there was hardly any difference in sound and it had more features for less money.

- EZ-Play Modified
- Full size Dreadnought
- Solid Spruce Top
- Mahogany Back & Sides
- Rosewood Bridge
- Rosewood Fret-Board
- Gloss Finish
- Scalloped X-bracing
- Hand carved custom nut
- Hand carved custom saddle
- Hand filed frets
- Sealed Grover Tuning Gears
- Abalone inlay rosette
- Genuine "Martin" Strings
- 100% money back guarantee
- Lifetime warranty

-No string rattle/buzz
-Very full, deep, rich sound
-No electronics in this model

-Beautiful, smooth, glossy finish
-Perfect fit
-It was in tune right out of the box - this surprised me
-Since this instrument came by UPS I inspected it with a fine tooth comb and could find no flaws - it was packaged beautifully to prevent damage

-This guitar is very well made and finished and it appears it would withstand live playing with no problem
-I have only had this guitar for a few days so only time will tell but I will say the numerous testimonials I have heard from other owners of these guitars was a major influence on my decision to purchase a Zager guitar

-Communication was excellent, I would email a question about the guitar I was interested in and typically had an email reply within the hour and usually within 30 minutes
-I had the option of calling them directly and speaking with them but email just worked better into my schedule
-I emailed Dennis and told him which guitar I wanted and he said he would send it out the next morning after Denny gave it a final check to make sure everything was perfect, the transaction was quick and flawless
-Most companies in this country could take a lesson or two from Zager Guitar regarding customer satisfaction

-This guitar is beautiful and sounds great. The fit and finish is outstanding and what is really great is it is so easy to play. The Zager Company manufactures their guitars with the strings closer to the frets so you do not need to use as much pressure on the string to play a note. You can check out that info on their website at Zagerguitar.com.
-I know the previous sentence sounds like a commercial for Zager but I very rarely will rave about a product but I just could not pass this one up.
-Oh yes, just one more thing, not only did I receive my guitar but the Zager Company included another set of high quality strings, a t-shirt, a numbered certificate and a guitar stand and I thought I was just getting the guitar. Talk about value - there you go.

I bought a Zager ZAD-50 Acoustic guitar in October of 2006. I waited over a year to post a review so I could play the guitar for awhile and see how it changed if at all over time. The guitar is a full sized dreadnought, mahogony back and sides, rosewood fretboard and bridge in glossy black.

With the Martin extra light strings that are included (along with an extra set), the guitar gives off a rich warm tone that reverberates throughout the room

The action on this guitar is set extremely low but does not contain any fret buzz. The chords are easy to play. My old guitar was warped on the top and the action became too high. In contrast, playing this one was a dream

I have been playing guitar on and off for over 45 years, but am entirely self taught, so I really don't know as much as I should. What I do know is that I have owned several guitars over that time and have played others belonging to friends and relatives. One of the guitars I owned was one that was sold to me by a friend of mine who was a professional musician who worked closely with Kris Kristopherson, Chet Atkins and Andres Segovia. The Zager guitar I bought sounds as good if not better than that one and plays a whole lot easier.

On several occasions I have contacted Dennis Zager Jr. for additional information. He always responds within a few hours with a personal greeting. This guitar is warrantied with 100% money back so you can't do much better than that. This is a family business and they treat their customers as if they were family.

This guitar is a Martin that has been modified by Denny Zager for EZ play capability. Just having a Martin is worth it, but with the modifications accompanying this guitar I can't say enough about the quality and care put into by the Zager family to see that their customers get a top notch guitar for a very reasonable price. I would not hesitate to deal with this family again if and when the time comes.

My new guitar was made this year 2008, 20 frets, a nice thin neck with string placement widened slightly and lowered for ease of play, this is called the EZ-play modification and it works extremely well.The case has to be purchased separately and there are 2 models to choses from but both are professional grade and include a humidity and temperature sensor to better keep track of the conditions in the case but also in the palce where the instrument is played when the case is left open. the included list of features is from the Zager website
http://www.zagerguitar.com/index.php?event=public.guitars.models&model=zad50&id=1
and is an exact representation of what I recieved. Notice the lifetime warranty!!


- EZ-Play Modified
- Full size Dreadnought
- Solid Spruce Top
- Mahogany Back & Sides
- Rosewood Bridge
- Rosewood Fret-Board
- Gloss Finish
- Scalloped X-bracing
- Hand carved custom nut
- Hand carved custom saddle
- Hand filed frets
- Sealed Grover Tuning Gears
- Abalone inlay rosette
- Tortoise shell pick guard
- Genuine "Martin" Strings
- 100% money back guarantee
- Lifetime warranty

This guitar which is the lowest priced model that Zager offers sounds spectacular. I have had other guitars and even custom handmade guitars (all acoustic) which did not impress me right out of the case as this Zager EZ-Play ZAD-50 did. I play acoustic flat picking and finger picking style music and even though the website mentions that this instrument does not respond particularly well to "heavy handed playing" I can dig in quite hard with the pick and don't get buzzing or slapping of the strings which are set very low making the action responsive and very easy to work. The sound is full and rich in the lower end and bright and ringing in the high register and has great volume. The combination is extremely satisfying! The notes can be bent although I am no expert at that technique and tend to rather have my instrument play clearly and accurately and stay in tune. My Zager doeas all of that well!

The Action, Fit and Finish is what the Zager is all about. All of the features mentioned here were personally modified by Denny Zager to make the guitar easier to play than what come from the factory. My Zager is mahogany but if you think rosewood is the only material to make guitars out of get the ZAD-80. The mahogany is shimmery and quite beautiful and the finish is gloss. I looked at other guitars (not Zager) with a flat or no finish and also "outdoor guitars" of laminated plastic? (big names) but found that for excellent sound you must get a gloss finish. It imroves dramatically the tone and the volume of the instrument. The bridge and fretboard are rosewood as they should be. There are NO faults. I am not a luthier so I don't know, but I am sure there are no bracing issues and even if there were, my Zager is supplied with a LIFETIME Gaurantee, not just on the bracing but on the whole instrument.

I am positive this intrument will stand the test of time and SHINE as in only get better!! Look again at the features Grover Tuning Machines,tortise pick gaurd,gloss finish. The strap button on the bottom does have a center of metal and I am not going to pry it out to examine it but I will bet it will hold up to all I would put it through and more. There is no upper strap button and this is dealt with very logically on the Zager website. I would also like to say that with any durability or reliability questions you have to use common sense, no musical instrument is "bullet proof" all require respect and occasional love and care. If you fail to protect your investment it will fail to continue to provide well for you.

The Zager family (that IS the company) are amazingly responsive and easy to deal with! My case handle was broken either as it went into the box or in shipping (there was no visible damage to the shipping box) I sent an email (DZ is almost always online for live chat) I got an immediate response and the new case (not simply a new handle) was on it's way to me with the shipping and handling paid both ways and a printable UPS label for return of the damaged case that NIGHT! (this was the night I got my delivery) There were extra strings and gifts included in my delivery (original and return delivery) How much better can it get? You deal directly with the family, questions can be asked before and after purchase and as a customer you are made to feel like a friend. Advice and lessons are available on line (most if not all correspondence is done on line although phone #'s are given as well. I will soon be calling to personally thank the Zagers for everything they do! Does it sound like I was satisfied? You better believe it!! Warranty? How does LIFETIME grab you?

Some of this is covered in my post above, but I have been playing for 20 years but have not played for the last 10. I wanted to get back into it and was looking for a "high end" instrument. I am 53 years old and could have purchased any instrument I wanted. I started looking in guitar centers, then moved to online looking for a "vintage" guitar (notice I left out all other name brands so you can fill in the mental blanks) At an online auction I was directed to the Zager Website (www.zagerguitar.com) and the more I read the more convinced I became that I should try this guitar. It had a satisfaction gaurantee including shipping both ways so how could you possibly lose? I did ask questions before I purchased and was answered immediately and honestly. If it were lost or stolen I would replace it with an Zager upgrade, maybe a cutaway or an acoustic with electronic in it. I say this not because I am unhappy with my purchase but only because I can only imagine how great the higher priced Zager line would play and sound. I might do that anyway but I am sure I have only just begun to experience the depth of the ZAD-50!
I love the instrument itself but also the company (family behind the instrument). This guitar came to me already modified in the same manner that might be required to make a higher priced intrument play more to a person's preferences. Playability is my favorite feature, could you play for 3 hours (after not playing regularly) on another instrument? I compared it to many other guitars, I decided to give it a try and my expectations were FAR EXCEEDED! Fantastic value pretty much summs it up!!

Finish is a beautiful gloss. Sealed Grover tuners on a rosewood neck. Dreadnought style. It has a solid top.

All acoustic with great bass and mid-tones. It comes with Martin light guage strings.

I took it out of the case and began to play right away. It is in perfect harmonic balance. The work done on these to lower the strings closer to the neck is top notch and it plays so easy without fatique.

Haven't had it long enough but by all indications it is a quality instrument.

Best I've ever dealt with, very helpfull.

I have not played an easier guitar that has this much depth in sound for the price EVER.

The guitar has a gloss finish it is a dreadnought. It has grover tuners. This guitar has features you would find on more expensive guitars. The guitar has a solid spruce top.

The sound is great. This guitar rivals higher priced taylors and Martins. They have done a excellent job with this guitar.

This is where the company shines. This guitar plays so easy. The EZ Play set up is awesome! Great job Denny.

I just got my guitar so I can't really comment, but I don't foresee any problems. They have a great warranty and customer service.

Fast I emailed them tonight about cleaning and polishing and had a reply within hours.

If you are looking for a guitar and don't want to break your bank account I would highly recommend this guitar.

I bought a Zager for the first time today at a used intruments store. I have played guitars my whole life (I am 45) and wanted to find something for my daughter who is 13 to bang around on, but I wanted it to be easy to play with no buzzing of the bass strings. After going to three different stores and playing everything on the walls I happened on a Zager at the third. Had never heard of them. This instrument stood out from all that I had played. Couldn't believe the sound and the action was easy. Perfect! I bought the guitar and went home thinking I would get on the net and see what in the world I had just bought. I was stunned to learn this was the Zager of Zager and Evans. As a young boy I used to bug the disc jockeys in Memphis on FM 104 to play 2525. I know they got tired of me. It is still one of my favorite songs from my childhood. I will be giving this guitar to my daughter for Christmas with a great deal of pride. I own a Martin JC-16GTE Jumbo. As she learns it will be a wonderful compliment to my Martin.

The next time I am in the market for new guitars I will include the Zager in my list of demos before I buy.

Solid wood with solid spruce top and rosewood bridge and neck; Grover tuners; smaller frets and lower nut for easy fingering.

This is an EZ-Play guitar, which requires much less pressure with the fingers on the strings, allowing you to play mush longer without fatigue. Easy tuning.

Still fairly new, but no wear shown yet, even though I'm a heavy handed player. Stays in tune throughout rigorous playing.

100% money back guarentee and lifetime warantee. Excellent customer support, e-mails directly to Denny Zager with immediate response, on-line videos available for care, tuning, playing, re-stringing and inexpensive on-line lessons available.

Have only been playing for a couple years. Started with a Fender, moved up to a Martin, then discovered the Zager EZ-Play. I could only play the others for a limited time before my fingers hurt, even with calluses. I can play the Zager for as long as I want. Not only would I get another one if I lost this one, but I am planning on buying a Zager acoustic/electric in the near future. I am also selling my other guitars.