Zager ZAD-50

Received my new Zager ZAD-50 with natural finish solid spruce top, mahogany sides, rosewood neck & bridge last week. Beautiful Guitar

Great sound and sustain. Using my electronic tuner Annotation? this is the first guitar I???ve owned that was / is in perfect tune to the 12th fret, I???m impressed.

I enjoy a small neck on a guitar since I have short, fat, stubby Cherokee Indian fingers. I do enjoy the some what wider string spacing; it allows me to play bar chords easier as well as the closer full handed chords. The finish is flawless and with a little touch up on the tuning it came ready to play, so I did.

I will need to check to others that have owned a Zager guitar longer than I. only having this guitar a week it???s a little to soon to give an informative opinion. I have no reason to believe this guitar will be a problem child.

Customer Support? I go out of my way and in many cases pay a higher price for a product when the people I talk with / deal with Bubble / play / make you feel welcome. I emailed Denny and informed him of my problems and needs. Dennis Jr. responded by email with what he believed to be my best choice and explained why. When I called to order my new Guitar, Brian answered and immediately made me feel happy that I called and it???s apparent that Brian is a people person. I have either hung up or walked out on a place of business because of the personality of the people handling my business. it was a great and a pleasant buying experience, I was treated like they wanted my business and Brian spent a lot of time working with me on my purchase, i.e. I didn't get the bums rush. I have no doubt should I have a problem Denny and his personnel will handle it.

I've been playing since 1964 how ever I did put the guitar up for several years to raise my family. I play by ear and can not read note one so tone and tune is important to me. a guitar that is out of tune as you go up and down the neck is like finger nails on a chalk board to me. I do enjoy this guitar. I own three other guitars, two of them are now for sell.I find it refreshing when a product performs as advertized.

20 Frets, Solid spruce top, Mahogany back and sides, Gloss finish, Dreadnought, Rosewood bridge, Sealed grover tuning gears, Rosewood neck, Guitar stand, Picks, Set of Martin strings,

Any style of music, Full sound, No dislikes

The set up is great, its very easy to play, I have found no flaws in this guitar.

The guitar will stand live playing, The hardware is in very good shape and will last a long time, The finish is very good and will last with alot of playing. Very dependable guitar.

Zager was the best company I've dealt with, very helpfull, very friendly. Does not need reapir, and has a lifetime warranty.

Off and on for 47 years, own some other guitars priced more or less, I got all the infromation I needed to make the purchase, If stolen I would buy another Zager Guitar right away, I love everything about this guitar. I'm not a pro, but its great that the Zager company can provide a modified guitar, with a great set up, easy to play, and affordable, for those of us that want to be able to play, and enjoy the experence.

Solid top, beautiful sunburst finish. Great tuners that hold a tune. I've had it over a year and rarely have to tune it. Don't know what else you could want on an acoustic.

Full sound acoustic, no buzz at all on the frets. Sound projects very well.

Action is excellent. Guitar was set up by Zager and frets extremely well with little pressure and no buzzing at all. Everything fits and the finish is great. No flaws whatever.

As I said, I have had this guitar for over a year now and it plays and sounds like the day I got it. I play for small groups in small setting and it is excellent.

No problems, but they have been made sure I was happy. First purchased the Sigma and didn't like the tuners on it. They replaced it with the zad50 without hesitation at my request.

I own 7 guitars, but this is the only one I play anymore. Everyone who has heard and played it wants to buy it. I played a top of the line Martin in the music store, and there is very little difference, if any, between it and this one. I can't say enough about the product and the service Zager offers. If I ever lost this guitar, I would purchase another one the same day.

Described in detail in other reviews
Guitar arrives exactly as described
Solid Top
Mahogany Laminate back and sides

Sound is weak, lacks bass tones, but very clean

Good setup as described and promised on ZAGER web site

Did not own long enough for an opinion

EXCELLENT!!
Attentive
Class Act

ZAD-50 experience
I stumbled on Zager's web site, and decided on the ZAD 50 after considering the options, I really hadn't done any comparison shopping at this point. I figured for $450 and a 100% satisfaction guarantee there's nothing to lose.

The guitar came quickly and it's appearance was excellent in spite of everyone's complaints about being made in Indonesia which is true. The quality of the finish and appointments were good for the money. Solid top with mahogany laminate back and sides, and white neck binding

The guitar had a slightly wider than normal neck, X-light Martin DARCO strings. It came with a guitar stand, extra set of strings, picks, and WOW...a Polaroid picture of Denny Zager working on a guitar, oh yeah a T-shirt too!

The guitar was very easy to play and easy on the fingers, but if you've been playing an acoustic for a while you'll find that the "String Science" really isn't necessary if your guitar has a decent setup and action.

The guitar sounds fairly good to the untrained ear, but if you like to pound out the chords for a BIG sound, forget it. The setup and the guitar just isn't built for that type of play. If you are a very light handed player this guitar may work for you.

After playing the guitar for a couple of days, I went to Guitar Center to try out the Martins. OH MY GOD!!! They blew the Zager away with beautiful sound and sustain, however I still maintain that the Zager looked very good at $450. Martins of course are priced into the thousands of dollars but I found a Martin model made for Guitar Center and Musicians Friend.

Its called a Martin "Custom D", very spartan looking, no bells and whistles but INCREDIBLE sound. Spruce Top, SOLID Rosewood back & sides, and rosewood fretboard. All for $899 with Martin case at Musician's Friend

Sure the Martin is priced higher but the sound is no comparison and isn't that what really matters?!

I emailed Zager for a return, they issued a return UPS label at no cost to me, I returned the guitar and was given full credit no questions asked, a real class act on Zager's part. MAKE SURE YOU DO NOT REMOVE THE PICK GUARD PLASTIC, ZAGER OR WILL NOT HONOR THE GUARANTEE. There is no mention of this in his warranty statement

If cost is of utmost importance to you, the Zager is a good buy, but for a modest amount more you can own a REAL Martin at an entry level price. I tried the D18, D-28, and D-45, the Custom D sounds very close to the high end Martins. To me the high end wasn't worth the extra $1-$2 thousand dollars more.

Be sure to demo other guitars before jumping blindly as I did initially

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

Pure acoustic BLISS,Incredable push even with extra light strings,NICE RICH FULL SOUND,very well balanced harmonics....Don't forget,I didn't spend thousands on this guitar,best you will find for the price!

The EZ-PLAY science of Zager's is incredable! Great action, so much lower than most, in any finger position. The fit is fantastic,very comfortable to the touch,Bye,Bye sore fingers! I do in fact play much longer,and with so much more clairity,it has expanded my guitar horizons.Awesome finish! I happen to have purchased a BLACK discounted Zager,and to this day I can't find the finish flaws,and we all know black show's all. Please keep in mind,we are talking a selling price of $445,which I do think I got twice the guitar

Reliability is on the owner of the instrument!..if you crash and burn your gitbox well DUHHHH!.If you take proper care of it,it will be reliable...The guitar feels durable when playing it,no problems with the tuners,in fact great,the guitar holds tune well,(I CAN BE A BIT HEAVY HANDED AT TIMES) Take it to a gig? YOU BET, Mic me up Scotty,ready to Jam

After the sale it's the service that counts!
My experience of dealing with zager,from time of purchase till now, has been nothing but professional, very prompt on answering questions, in which I have had many, the purchase was quick and easy, no hard sell from staff,just friendly laid back everyday people who seem to understand we are not all rock stars, and some of us need to count our blessings and pennies! Kudos to you all!

Testiominal:
To all you guitar heroes:
I purchased a discounted ZAD50 better than 2 weeks ago, now my review thus far.
My reason for buying a discounted guitar from zager,(knowing custom anything varies)was not so much for the savings, but to see if the box was played in a bit, this wound up to be true. To this day I really can't find the flaws. So no biggie! The black guitar just about jumped out of the box,Gorgeous ++. Very nice case Well built with lock.
After letting the guitar stand to acclimate to the house temperature for aprox two hrs (which was torture),I picked it up out of the case, and strummed my first chord, what a nice full sound in fact sweet! Even with the extra light strings,(which I was a bit skeptical) the guitar had great push, and put a whole new meaning to fast into my playing. More than 2 weeks of playing this guitar, Denny's claims are true, my fingers don't hurt so I play longer, the action is so sweet I play much cleaner, more precise,which always helps with timing. Two days ago I realized the B string was buzzing a bit, but I'm no fool the weather is so cold here now, the guitar is still settling in to the forced air heat that we have,which in turn must have relieved the neck a touch, one small adjustment to the truss rod and it???s working out nicely. Denny's videos were helpful in this. Great tool and Thanks Denny!, weather can play such a big part with your instrument, I'm the proud owner of a 5??? 7??? grand piano and it took a couple of years to settle into the house.
The proof is in the pudding! My 15 yr old, who is an electric guitar nut,comes creeping over and says Ok Dad hand over that Zager! He immediately began to play "OVER THE HILLS AND FAR AWAY" I was in the other room it was incredible! Go ahead and ask why!! Let alone the song written by Jimmy Page, But if he was playing the Alvarez,or the solid spruce Yamaha, he would not have been anywhere near the clarity of playing that tune. With the additional width of the strings, makes pulloffs-so much easier for us both, finger picking is a dream. I could never play the intro to "TEARS IN HEAVEN" cleanly, but now I can! Thank you Zager!People realize, the playability of this guitar&sound,in my opinion match that of martin's D-15 easily! Now go look at the price of that Martin! I double Dog dare you!
For you beginners, consider the fact that as a beginner you may feel the need to start with that $250 Yamaha or less. Well chances are you not going to have success, the string height and usually HEAVY strings will beat your fingers to a pulp, which will only discourage you from learning, because of how you never dreamed, how hard it can be to hold the strings down. Well with the Zager,I guarantee you will have much more success, and you will learn at a much more accelerated rate, because of Zager's playability, which in turn, will help you realize your dream of being a guitarist, then a true musician. Nothing like being ONE with your guitar while playing your favorite tunes!

I bought the guitar along with a case from the Zager website. They included an extra set of strings and a t-shirt. The guitar was exactly as advertised.

I play fingerstyle with no nails or finger picks. The ZAD 50 is an excellent guitar for me. I has a nice balance with a full base and surprisingly clear treble.

As Zager advertises the guitar is very easy to play. They really are "EZ play." There are no flaws.

I just got it, but it appears very durable. I very much like the light weight of the guitar. I think it is due to the bracing.

Zager's customer support is great. It can't be improved! All emails were answered promptly.

For the first guitar Zager sent me, I did not like the wood matching on the top. It appeared to be a cosmetic issue since the guitar played and sounded excellent. I contacted Zager and they readily agreed to replace it and paid all shipping costs! I had my replacement guitar in about nine days. They even sent me another set of stings and another T-shirt!

I have been playing for 30 years, and the Zager is now my favorite guitar. I would definately replace it if lost or stolen.

It is an excellent guitar for the price. If you want a cosmetically perfect guitar, I suggest to look at other brands. But if you have a limited guitar budget - like me - the ZAD 50 is an excellent guitar.

Features
Finish - Sunburst
Body style - full size dreadnought 6 string acoustic
Tuners - sealed Grover
Neck/Scale - Thin, easy to play, rosewood fretboard.
# Frets - 20
Solid Spruce Top, Mahagony Back and sides
Hand carved nut, saddle, hand filed frets, abalone inlay, tortoise shell pickgard.

Beautiful sounding guitar - better than my Washburn and Seagull cedar top. This is a great step up from my first, second and third 'beginner' guitars --> and it's a huge step up for the money. Listen to the demonstrations on www.zagerguitar.com and you'll see and hear for yourself how nice these guitars sound.

Denny sets these up to have a nice low action, hand filed frets and custom nut to spread out the strings a bit. I have short stubby fingers and this guitar is so much easier to play than my other guitars. Easily the best playing acoustic I've played, including Martin D-15 (which runs about 2x cost of this guitar).

I bought this one as a discounted second from Denny's site, and other than a very minor spot by the pickgard (the glue on tip of pickgard came loose, easily fixable), the guitar is beautiful. First thing my kids said when I unpacked this guitar: "Wow Dad, that's GORGEOUS".

I don't gig so I'm not sure. Seems very well built, no finish flaws, everything is neat -- so I have no reason to think it won't hold up.

Zager guitar is the most responsive family run business I've ever dealt with on the Internet -- and I've been doing Internet since well before the 'dot com' boom. I've only been playing guitar for about 3 years, they have been very responsive to all my questions.
Fast shipment and 100% money back guarantee - can't beat that!

I'm telling all my friends about Zager guitars. I'm also trying out the online guitar lessons, which seem to be helping me tremendously - I may finally break out of my acoustic rut and get somewhere with playing fingerstyle, thanks to Denny.

Full Size Dreadnought, Solid Spruce Top, Mohogany Back and Sides, Rosewood Bridge, Rosewood Fret Board, Gloss Black 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

Right out of the box from shipping the guitar was out of tune a bit. I tuned it by ear and was amazed at the sound this guitar has. Really nice.

This guitar is everything that the manufacturer says it is. After owning a well used starter guitar, I decided I wanted to upgrade to something nice. I visited several guitar forums trying to make a decision on which is best and for what reasons. To my dismay, so many choices and different price ranges. I happened to catch a comment about how anyone intersted in alot of guitar for a very reasonalble price, should take a look at what Zager has to offer. I visited their website and in short order decided to try one of their instruments. Zager offers discounted guitars at reduced prices; units used in shooting videos, or giving lessons, with minor marks or flaws. I purchased a discount guitar and I am hard pressed to find anything wrong with it cosmetically. Bear in mind I am no expert by any means so someone who is, might find a small defect. Again, I could not. I also purchased a used hard shell case and same scenario, cannot find a single flaw in it. Everything was exactly as advertised and the instrument plays like a dream.

The instrument looks to me like it will hold up for many years with no problems. Everything on it is top notch. Shipped with an extra set of genuine Martin strings.

Zager offers a 100% moneyback guarantee. Period ! If you buy the instrument, and you don't like it, for any reason, they will take it back, give you a full refund including shipping both ways. All Zager guitars come with a lifetime warranty. I have mailed the manufacturer on two occasions and recieved prompt helpful replies.

I have been playing for about 25 years. Strictly a hobbiest, for my own enjoyment. I would definately purchase another Zager if I were to lose this one for any reason. I love the neck action on it. And if you put a capo on it, its unbelievably easy to make your chords. I looked at Martin, Taylor, ect. Its hard to beat the quality of this instrument for the money. I wish it came with a top strap button installed. They currently do not offer this service. I have no regrets about making this purchase. I find myself playing more now because this guitar plays so easily.

This guitar is a dreadnought with mahogany body, spruce top, and rosewood fretboard. It comes with chrome Grover tuners, a very nice abalone inlay around the soundhole, and white binding on both body and fretboard. The craftsmanship on this guitar is excellent. It is as well made as any acoustic guitar can be.

This guitar has a great tone that should improve even further with each year as the wood ages. I play country/rock/blues/folk with a lot of bass lines, and I like an acoustic with a rich bass as well as a ringing treble that really fills a room. The guitar comes with extra light strings and is set up for fast action and a minimum of hand fatigue. String bends are easy, and I can play for a long time without tiring my left hand. The tradeoff is a little less punch than my other guitar which has slightly heavier strings.

Each Zager guitar is hand set-up before shipping because this is a small, family owned company according to their website. You can see that the frets have been hand filed and the nut and saddle are set for the lowest action possible without buzzing. If you play it hard it will buzz, so the player has to adjust to the lighter strings and low action accordingly. After an hour or so, I had completely adapted to the feel of it. The instrument had no cosmetic flaws that I could detect. I am not sure what type of plastic is used in the nut and saddle. Both are well fitted and do a good job. I think I would replace the saddle with one made of bone after this one begins to show some wear.

This guitar is as sturdy as any expensive guitar that I have played. It is somewhat lighter than my other dreadnought. The workmanship is virtually flawless. The Grover tuners are my personal favorite, and I have used them for years on my guitars. The guitar comes with only the rear strap button, and it is a plastic one that I would replace with one that is more secure. I would have no problem using this guitar on a gig without a backup.

These guitars have a lifetime warranty that covers any failure of the instrument that was not caused by abuse. If the quick and friendly service I got when purchasing the guitar is any indication, I believe that this small company will make it right if the the guitar needs repair or replacement in the future. They also offer free video instructions on how to care for the instrument, install strings, and a variety of other topics.

I have been playing since 1964, and own two other acoustics and a vintage electric, as well as several amps, mics, and other gear. I did not ask where the guitar was actually assembled. I know it was overseas because a guitar of this quality made in the USA unfortunately would cost a small fortune. I had planned on buying one of the 3 US made guitars, but when I saw this website I took a chance on this one, and I feel that I have a guitar that is as good or better than most of the top US guitars and the cost was quite reasonable. I have played all of them in music stores. If it was stolen I would order another one just like it.

This guitar is an upgraded Martin Signa and the overall workmanship is excellent. The EZ-Play neck and string height that Zager promotes does exactly what they claim and is easier to play. This guitar looks and plays luke the higher end Martins and Taylors. Definately the best bang for the buck!!

Sound is rich and full, just like the more expensive Martins, Taylors and Ovations.

This guitar was hand tuned by Denny Zager himself then autographed before it went into the box.

I've had this guitar 8 months and play it daily and I've never had a single problem. It's solid, dependable and I have absolutely no doubts that it would hold up under "road and concert" conditions.

Get this, their warranty is lifetime. Dennis Zager Jr. handles this end of the business and makes himself available 24/7 via the internet. I've sent him a couple comments and he answered each within 24 hours. Can't get this service at a retail chain.

I've been playing since 1965. I still own my original 65 Telecaster, Stratocaster, Jaguire, Les Paul Studio, 57 Gretsch Silver Jet, and Ovation Balladeer. Honestly the first guitar I now grab is the Zager. I like it so well, I going to buy another one, the ZAD 80 very soon. Check out their web site. It's very impressive and they are very upfront and honest with their business.

Seen from a distance, this guitar appears to be your standard dreadnought in a light finish with a tortoise shell pick guard. Up close, several details reveal this isn't a production line instrument. The gloss finish over solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides is flawless as delivered. The mahogany neck is overlaid with a nice rosewood fretboard and is custom sculpted to give a thin and extremely comfortable profile. There are 20 frets with 14 open. Sealed, chrome Grover tuners look nice on the headstock which, other than the ZAGER name, is unadorned. Abalone inlay around the sound hole is simple, but not at all plain. All models are available as accoustic electric for those who prefer them.

New and "right out of the box", the ZAD 50 sounded impressive, with great tonal range and sustain (10 sec+). It comes with Martin extra light strings (extra set included) that sound good anywhere on the neck. The sound is full, clean, and balanced, with no excessively this or that. It seems it will fit well with the folk/pop/blues/bluegrass music I favor.

Action and playability are where this guitar shines. Made to Martin specs, the guitar is personally hand-modified in several important ways by the owner of the company, Denny Zager (Zager & Evans..."In the Year 2525"). It's called an EZ PLAY because Zager reconfigures the neck to a thinner profile, hand-filing frets for comfort and buzz-free sound. He also custom sculpts the nut and bridge to lower the action which, though not effortless, is dramatically different (easier) than the vast majority of off-the-shelf instruments, shop-set or not. String spacing is slightly wider than standard and doubtless will improve my finger-picking (and I think this accounts for the fact that, in a face-on view, the fret markers...dots...aren't perfectly centered between the 3rd and 4th strings; but, who cares?). Barre chords are a breeze, even way up on the neck. The light spruce top and light mahogany body have a flawless finish and the joinery, inside and out, is beautifully done. Who'd have thought the inside of a guitar would be as pretty as the outside? Looking around with a flaslight, I saw an immaculate interior and attractive labeling, as well as the extensive hand-shaping of braces (again, by Zager) which must account, in part, for the great sound. I've had this guitar only a short time, but every encounter only impresses more. Denny Zager personally plays and sets up this guitar before delivery, and he signs the back, which I think is a nice touch. If you don't, I understand the signature can be removed, but don't know how.

Although quite light for a dreadnought, the guitar seems rock-solid, and has balance that makes holding it easy. The only hardware are the Grover tuners, and we all know about them. Treated properly, I can't imagine this guitar not lasting many years. I'm 63 and fully expect this to be the last guitar I'll need to buy.

ZAGER gives a 100% satisfaction guarantee and a LIFETIME warrantee. They will even pay for return shipment via UPS. This is a small, family owned business (in Nebraska) and obviously can't make an offer like this without something to back it up. Their service has, so far, been exemplary. Call the factory and you'll perhaps be answered by one of the owners. Email is answered quickly and questions dealt with more than adequately. I emailed a question in the wee hours this morning and had an answer by 9 AM; personal AND friendly. Their web site is easy to navigate and comprehensive. Offered as part of "the deal", is access to a large catalogue of on-line instruction by Denny Zager. Nice videos, but way better with a broadband internet connection, which I don't have...the only fault I've noticed, and it's not with Zager.

I've just retired and decided to "re-learn" guitar after a long hiatus. I currently have a Johnson resonator and a generic, discount-store dread. My previous experience had been pretty much recreational, with occassional gigs solo or with a small group. Had I been lucky enough, then, to play the Zager I now have, I'd have saved endless hours of pain and frustration, and I see Zagers as a real boon to beginning guitarists who want to go the accoustic route. I've never played a $5000 guitar, but I shopped extensively, on-line and in the flesh, before stumbling upon ZAGER via a Google search and buying mine sight unseen. The web site is detailed enough to answer most questions (also a large number of nice photos of each model) and customer service handles the rest nicely. So, comparing apples to apples, I didn't find anything among the "famous" names I encountered that would stand up to my ZAGER at 2, 3 or more times the price. If it disappeared, I'd drive to Nebraska and grab another ASAP! In fact, I wish I could afford to give a few of these as gifts. What do I love about my ZAD 50? Reviews are so subjective, by definition, but the proof is in the playing. I see I've given the whole ZAGER experience a solid 10 rating. The instrument and the folks behind it, in my mind, deserve it! Oh, yes; they sent me a a cool t-shirt, to boot!

Beautifully made instrument. First rate construction, fit, and fginish.

Wonderful crisp clean sound.

Everything was as advertised.

Will have to wait and see. Everything looks solid and built to last.

Very friendly and very helpful.

Wonderful. The best choice and best guitar for my level and needs.

Solid Spruce top. Mahogany back and sides. All Gloss, beautiful guitar, mine has the sunburst finish. Thin mahogany neck with the "zager string science" that allows for incredible easy plyability. I'm 50 years old and this is the easiest playing acoustic guitar I've ever seen.

Beautifull tone to match the looks. Unbeleveably easy to fingerpick.Very easy to play barre chords all the way up the neck. The sound is mellow but strong without any "muddines". The guitar sounds as good as it looks and that is no easy feat.

Hand made guitar, hand made saddle, hand made bridge, special hand adjusted string spacing. A lot of time and effort went into building this guitar and it shows. Danny Zager hand signs all guitars personally. If your dissatisfied he will pay for shipping both ways as well as give you a 100% refund.

Only time will tell but it seems as sturdy as a tank!

Any questions any time you can contact Zager guitars for support. By phone or email and they'll get back to you (by email) within an hour or call and they'll talk to you right away. The BEST customer support in the industry.

This guitar is made to be played and played and played. Virtually no hand or finger fatigue. I thought because my Multiple Sclerosis was causing me to loose the srength in my fingers and my hand was cramping so bad I had to give up my acoustics. I didn't own any cheap guitars either .I had a Martin D-16GT and a Taylor 310-CE. This is the first acoustic I've been able to play in 2 years and no fatigue,cramping or pain. This guitar is the hardest to put down of any Acoustic I've ever owned. I have a Fender ash stratocaster that I had a luthier put a Fishman Power bridge in and I have a Parker (03) Nightfly M because that was the only way I thought I'd ever be able to play Acoustic again.Thank you Mr Zager..you make the easiest to play acoustic on EARTH!! and it SOUNDS as good as it looks. Check them out at Zagerguitars.com

This is the Zager basic entry model guitar, nothing too fancy. They threw in a T-Shirt, an allen wrench, and a new set of strings and some picks. The neck had a nice profile. You can get the rest of the specifications from their website.

The guitar had a decent sound, not too bright like some lower end guitars, but not a Martin or a Taylor either. It did project well. Anybody that says this is the best sound ever has either never played really good guitars, or got one much better than the one I got.

I bought a ZAD 50 that was a discount guitar, it was described as "virtually perfect, played by Denny in several videos". The finish was pretty decent, there were a couple of black specks under the finish on the front near the soundhole, and a very small bubble also on the front. I didn't expect perfection since I was buying one of their discount models. My big disappointment in the guitar was the action. It was 4.5mm off the fret at the 12th fret, which is higher than any other guitar I own. The frets sure were hand filed, they had great big flat spots on many of them that were not polished or crowned in any way. The low E string was way up there height wise, and the high E string was buzzing from the 4th to the 7th fret. Not at all what I expected, I was expecting a GREAT action since that's their main selling point. The action was in my opinion not even good, much less great. The extra light guage strings made it easier to play of course. The top wasn't even close to bookmatched, the top and bottom halves were even a very different color. Also, the white binding was discolored a great deal, it was white and faded yellow.

I don't gig, so that's a moot point. The guitar's quality of construction didn't seem any better than the $100 Samick that I bought for my daughter, but it didn't seem any worse either. No obvious problems with it that I found in my short time with the guitar.

Customer support when buying the guitar was great. All my emails were answered within a couple of hours, most within 20 minutes or so. When I emailed after recieving the guitar to tell them I wasn't pleased with it, things slowed down some, but then again all my emails were answered within 24 hours so that's still pretty good. Dennis Jr. tried to get me to keep the guitar telling me that they were set up high on purpose, and that the guitar would "play in" and the action would get better. The way I understand it, string tension only works one way, unless physics have suddenly reversed themselves. He also said that a truss rod adjustment would take care of the buzzing hight E, I responded that if I adjusted it looser it would only make the rest of the action worse. The next email said they'd take it back and they sent me a pre-paid UPS label to ship it with. Then they told me that in order to have the refund issued that the guitar must be perfect and the pick guard plastic must still be in place. Glad I didn't peel it off. They also said that no refund would be issued until it was inspected by Denny himself, which I guess is reasonable. I shipped the guitar on 7/30, they recieved it on 8/2, and on 8/7 I emailed asking about my refund. Dennis Jr. took care of it in a couple of hours after that, so the 100% refund is truly on the up and up, as long as you live up to the part of the bargain that they didn't tell you up front, which is leave the pick guard plastic on.

I've been playing for 27 years. I currently own a Martin D-28 Shenandoah, a Martin DM, and a Washburn Woodstock. I've owned many other guitars through the years. I sent this guitar back, so obviously I wouldn't replace it.

2007 Gloss finished dreadnought with silver grover tuners, solid spruce top and laminate mahogany back and sides. Bound body and neck with abalone rosett. Came with extra picks and martin strings.

Very good sound and sounds equal to higher priced solid body guitars. It is somewhat brighter than my martin dcx1e but hard to pick which sounds better.

This guitar was set up well and easy to play. Close action, alot of attention was given to the playability. No problems noted here. The exterior finish was very nice and it is a good looking guitar. I inspected the interior of the body and could see some splinters inside on the back. Despite this the rest is very good.

This guitar seems well made. I don't see anything to have me doubt it.

No repairs needed. I have telephoned and e-mailed them and the response was quick and courteous.

I have been playing for about a year. I own a Martin acoustic and Norman acoustic. I was looking for the nicest guitar I could get for the money. Playability, sound, and looks in that order of importance. This guitar was more than I expected for the money. I expected to pay three times this much.

Finish is flawless, awesome product.

Excellent sound, cannot say enough good things about Zager

No flaws, just perfection

I have a Gibson LP Std, Guild and Ovation is the Zager stands up to and surpasses the others in many ways!

This guitar is a very well made with a spruce top , mahogany sides and back and a rosewood fretboard.It has a glossy finish, which will protect it from those annoying nicks and scratches.The strings are set low and a little wider apart than most dreadnoughts , which makes learning a lot easier.It has sealed Grover tuners, which are a big plus for keeping it in tune.I believe it was made in Indonesia, but that is where some Martins are made, so don't hold that against it.

I like the sound , and that is all that matters to me. Most of my friends and people I play with like the sound , of course there will always be critics. I personally think Taylors sound terrible , no matter what the price, but that's my opinion.

The guitar came to me tuned perfectly , I was amazed.It had absolutley no flaws. I even asked my wife to look at it ( and believe me if there had been the slightest imperfection she would have found it )

I don't ever intend on playing on stage. This is a hobby, a passion to me. I do play with a bluegrass jam , and I am comfortable playing my guitar with them. Again , there will always be critics. With the construction and finish, I believe I will have this guitar for a long time and pass it on to my grandkids.There is a lifetime guarantee which I hope I will never have to test.

All I can say about this is , dealing with the Zager company is a pleasure. Every question and concern was answered promptly , by email or phone, with the friendliest people. No questions seemed to silly for them to answer , and I think I did ask some ridiculous questions. Other companies could learn a lot from Zagers commitment to their customers, not only guitar companies. And like I said a Lifetime Warranty, I don't see many companies offering this. Also a website that is full of useful information about your guitar.

Well, I've owned guitars for over thirty years, like I said this is a hobby.My favorite guitar was an Ibanez PF 5 , but I can only play it for a short time because it was tough on the ole fingers , and it has a narrow neck, which made some chords impossibe for me to play.Now I have more time to spend playing so I searched for months for something new , and I chose the ZAD 50.And I'm happy I did. It plays with the slightest of touch, and hitting notes and chords is so much easier for me. I know one thing for sure , I am practicing a lot more, I enjoy playing more , and my fingers don't hurt as much any more. They still hurt , but not anywhere like they did.
The best I can say to you is, if your planning a career playing the guitar, maybe this isn't the guitar for you. If your looking to impress your friends with a big name guitar, maybe this isn't the guitar for you. BUT , if your looking for a good guitar to learn on, that has a fantastic sound ( in my opinion ), at a very reasonable price, then this may be the guitar for you. I love mine and am proud to bring it out of its case. Nuff said.

I am a beginner having only 6 months of experience but I bought the Sunburst model and my instructor says that this guitar has more features than he has seen on guitars that costs hundreds more.

I only played the S101 that I bought when I started. This one plays much easier and sounds much better.

The guitar came 3 days after I ordered it and it was perfectly in tune. There are no flaws and it has a beautiful finish.

Like I said I am still a beginner, but all of my family members and friends who have seen it are amazed. It seems as though it will be dependable for years to come.

I have had no problems to date. Before I bought it, I emailed Zager with some questions that were answered within minutes. In fact, I made a mistake and bought the wrong model and they corrected the problem immediately. The guitar comes with a lifetime warranty.

Excellent. I love the EZ play design since, as a beginner, I need to practice more than most and with the S101, my fingers were numb after 20 minutes, even after I had the action lowered. The ZAD 50 is effortless to play and I just love it. I can't wait until I get better and I am able to wring it out like my instructor does!

A beautiful glossy finish on this dreadnought lets the solid Sprucewood top fully show. The sides and back are Mahogany. The fit and finish is super with no visible flaws all around. It is obvious that there is great care and attention to quality built into this guitar even before hearing a single sound. A trim of abalone around the sound hole really sets off the finish too.

Both the bridge and the fret-board are Rosewood, a real deal on a guitar in this price range and a feature that adds to the great body sound.

The tuners are sealed Grovers. Helps to make the fine adjustments to get each string just right to bring out the clean sound.

Some customizations are built-in to the standard guitar really push this model way beyond standard. These include filing the frets down to make super easy and smooth playing, hand-carving the saddle and nut to bring the strings lower and to widen them just a bit - this small adjustment gets my fingers dead-on the correct strings with no problems. And there is some scalloped bracing (rather than the usual flat) that really opens up the sound moving across and through the top.

All-in-all, one of the best-built guitars I have come across for less than $2,000.

I used to play a lot maybe 20 years ago. Never professionally but often with friends. That was 20 years ago... I wanted to start again because my daughter wanted to learn, so this guitar seemed like a good one for her. I was surprised (and very pleased) that this ZAD-50 rivals both my Yamaha CJ838S (circa 1980)and what I remember of my Martin D-35 that was ripped off from my apartment a long time ago (I always suspected a deal made on the street by my room mate, but that is another story). I have not had the budget to ever replace the D-35 and have really missed that sound - until now. Again, amazed at the sound quality from this guitar. In a blindfold test, I doubt that many could pick it from my D-35 if played side-by-side. That is saying something. With the fret and saddle mods, I was worried that the strings would either not carry or would buzz-out. Neither has happened. So I got a great playing guitar that my daughter is learing on that is much easier to play than any of my other guitars.

This thing played and was almost perfectly in tune right out of the shipping box. A nice set of Martin strings was neatly strung and trimmed out. There were no flaws visible in the mechanics at all.

Cannot say. I believe it would. I traveled and played hard with my Martin and it was scuffed, but never tired. I belive this model would hold its own in just about any situation. I have never miked this one, but bet it would hold the house as long as you wanted to and I would not need anything else. If I were on the live circuit, I would probably get the acoustic/electric version that has a pickup built-in because it looks like a breeze to get a room-full of sound from. Still, I think this one would do it too if miked properly - with the customizations, I would not want to modify this myself.

No repairs. Have only had for one month. They offer a 100% guarantee and a lifetime warranty, so that seems good enough for me.

I did exchange a few emails with the company and these were answered promptly. And Denny Zager (founder/owner) and his son Dennis Jr. really stand behind their products. Their web site is full of useful tips. for example, I have been playing and stringing my acoustics for over 30 years, and I was showing my daughter one of Denny's short tip videos and I picked up one little tip that I plan to use next time I put strings on. It just makes sense. My daughter says she enjoys watching him play (maybe only because he is a lot better than me... but also because he does a good job teaching about the guitar, how it works, how to tune and care for it, etc.

Also, through something I did (bad wireless connection on my end I think), I ended up double-ordering and they promptly fixed this the next business day with no major discussion needed. That was refreshing. Usually, once a company has your money, good luch.

Been playing for 40+ years - I think I started out on a Sears Silvertone handed down from my brother in maybe about 1966...try doing the Wipe Out by the Beach Boys on an acoustic... Have an old Ventura Bruno V-23S, Circa 1970 (think Gibson Dove knockoff), a Yamaha CJ838S. Had my Martin D-35 (sigh) and had, played, borrowed and sold several others usually bought used in the $500 range(Epiphone, Gibson, Alvarez)over the years.

Worth noting this is the only guitar I have ever bought that I did not play or hear played first. But after reading several reliable reviews and looking at the construction of this one, plus the money-back guarantee, it seemed worth the go. And it has worked out great.

I really like the rich sound. I heard my daughter plunking away a couple of days ago and I was both upstairs and two rooms away distance wise. The sound from this thing was amazinging clear and especially when you consider that she has been playing for only one month. Just think back to what you sounded like in the beginning. Ouch.

And the next best thing is that she really can play it with ease. That is no idle boast from Denny Zager - this model has EZ-Play in the name and it really is.

I would probably go for the acoustic/electric Zager model if I bought again just for the convenience of a built in tuner, pickup, etc.

I got the basic model, but tuners were excellent and the finish was unbelieveable. People think it is a much more expensive guitar, expecially when they hear and play it,

Excellent projection for an acoustic. I have 6 other guitars, Washburn, Gibson, Fender (gave away two of my others when I got the Zager) and this sounds better, plays better and projects great.

This is an excellent example of craftsmanship. I have not been able to find any flaws. Excellent set up and finish.

I would use this guitar anywhere. In fact I do. I play at home and at business meetings and everyone always comments on the guitar.

Never had any problems. Prior to purchasing, I emailed several times and received prompt responses. This is my second guitar from Zager. The first was a Martin Sigma that can't hold a candle to the ZAD 50.

Excellent. What more can you say than that. I will never be without a Zager ZAD 50. I am 64, have arthitis and this is the only guitar I play now. Anyone who doesn't recognize the quality and expertise that Zager puts into these guitars doesn't know guitars.

Dreadnought solid spruce top; rosewood bridge and fretboard; gloss finish; hand carved nut and saddle; hand filed frets.
Finished and dated Jan 2007

For beginner acoustic, seems excellent. Rich,clear tone with very light touch needed.

Finish superb. Arrived needing only low E string slighy adjusted.
No flaws.
Ease of play outstanding.

Brand new.

Prompt, friendly email responses by the owners of the company.
Lifetime warranty.

50 year old beginner, playing one month; taking lessons; practicing daily.
Started with a Takamine GS330S.
Zager tremendously easier to play. Chosen because of claims of easier playability. Surpassed expectations.
Finish and appearance impeccable.

Great Sound, radiateing affect. Reaches out and makes you hear it !

No flaws found. Pick guard a little lose on the edges but easy enough to fix.

All looks great. Guitar is brand new durability seems good but time will tell.

No major problems, however minor issues and quetions were taken care of immediately

Well I am 42 years old, been singing(for money)for awhile and only been playing guitar for a year. I have alot of support and friends who play and help me out, already sounding good(according to others opinions, and mine) I own 4 guitars of varying value, however the Zager is already in the top 2. I would buy another Zager and will probably own another by early next year. I don't think I've fallen in Love with the guitar, however I like it alot...Nothing I really disliked. I may be like some folks and expect to much from a new instrument like this one..............My wife told me something very interesting about the guitar last night, and I quote,"the guitar doesn't make the man, the man makes the guitar". I believe she said that because I was probably expecting to much from my new Zager, although its a great guitar, it won't play the music for you or "Leap tall buildings in a single bound". Its just a great tool to allow me to do that myself...................

Just received the guitar and I'm impressed with it's workmanship.As far as listing features, that can best be determined by visiting their website.

Sound is more "bright" than rich & full.Perhaps that's because it's new and the wood still has to mature?

In comparsion to my old/cheap Yamaha, it's the difference between a Mercedes and a Geo Metro.Strings are low to the fretboard,neck is slim which allows my small hands to reach previously impossible chords and hold without buzz.

Just received it,so I can't speak to its long term durability but workmanship and components appear to be top notch.

Has a lifetime warranty and I've traded e-mails with the owner(s).No reason to believe they wouldn't stand by me if there's a problem.

I'm only a novice player having learned basic chords in my teens and never progressed beyond simple strumming.With my small hands I was resigned to the fact I'd never get any better.Now that I've tried the ZAG50 I know that my biggest limit was the guitar,not me.With the slim neck and action I can reach and hold chords and pluck notes without buzzing.I wish I would have layed my hands on a similar guitar 30 years ago.

ZAD-50 is an acoustic dreadnought with a solid spruce top, glossy natural finish, rosewood fretboard, grover chrome tuners, 20 frets, mahogany back and sides, hand carved nut and bridge. Modified EZ-play by Denny Zager.

Beautiful rich tones, not "tinney" like some I have tried. I like a finger picking style and this guitar seems well suited for that.

The action is very good although it is not magic. It is marketed as "no more sore fingers" but trust me they still get sore although my finger tips are getting tougher by the day. The nut and saddle are custom made out of corian (sp?). I see no flaws in the wood or manufacture of this guitar.

I just play for my own pleasure but it seems very solid and should last several lifetimes.

I have had the guitar for 15 months now playing almost everyday. I have had no problems and it stays in tune day after day. My dealings with Zager have been completely over the internet. Quick responses to any emails I have sent them. They delivered my original order in just a week's time.

I have had a guitar for 30 years but only really started playing to really try to learn for a little more than a year, ever since I got this guitar. My favorite features are the sound/tone and the string science modifications that spread the strings slightly and lower for easier fingering. I would but another one but probably an electric/acoustic next time. I definitely would buy another Zager especially after trying others in the same general price range.

Gloss finish, full size dreadnought, Grover sealed tuners. Guitar is full scaled, made in 2005. Solid Spruce top with active Fishman Piezo pickup.

My style is flat pick strumming with about 25% fingerpicking. I have been performing since 1967. My duo plays folk rock, blues, covers and originals. The ZAD50 is plugged directly into a Peavy 400 mixer/amp and the tone controls are flat.
The sound is full and has more of an accoustic sound than Piezo than my prevoius Takamini 360 or Ibanez AEF 30. WHere some times, pickups emphasize some strings over others, the Fishman seems more equalized. Finger picking is somewhat easier because the strings are wider apart than my previous guitars. Some notes buzz on some frets but I haven't played a guitar that hasn't had this problem.

My prevoius Takamini had numerous setups with extensive fret work and the action was great. The Zager plays as easy as I could want and it's never had a setup. Our gigs are typically 3 and four hours and of course my fingers are somewhat sore but unless I play my Line 6 Variax 300 I found all acoustics are like this.

I use the Zager live on the average of 3 times a month. Only recently I added the Variac 300 and this was for a puncher lead sound. One things that I noticed on the Zager is it stays in tune all night. The finish is as good as when the guitar was new. I really would not own a guitar that I couldn't depend on. I used to break G, D and A strings often on my Takamini but this hasn't happened on the Zager.

I have not had any repair work done but when I had questions, my emails were answered within hours. Compare this with Line 6. I left a voice mail with questions, and it took a week for an unhelpful person to respond.

Again, I've been performing for 40 years. I've owned 2 Martin D-18s, a Guild D-35, F-30, F-50 and two other Guilds that I don't remember the models of. A Takamini 360SC that I loved, and an Ibanez AEF 30 that was ok but didn't feel right.
I purchassed the Zager ZAD50 used. I had never heard of the brand but after playing it acoustic and plugged in for about an hour I fell in love with the feel, the weight and the sound. I compared it to two $750.00 Martins and the ZAD50 had a much more natural sound. My only hesitation was the Zager name on the headstock. What would my guitar playing friends think. The sound and playability helped me overcome that. If this review seems overly positive it's because I truely love picking it up and playing it.