Zager ZAD-50CE
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Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 595
Submitted 02/02/2008
at 11:30pm
by Tom Gong
Email: Tommy022060 at aol<dot>com
Features
:
10
I got my New Zager zad-50ce electric Acoustic full size droughtnut solid spruce top with mahogany back and sides with a rosewood bridge and fretboard also has a built in tuner with the electronics the neck is a little wider than my other acoustic so there is more spacing between the Martin strings that came with the guitar
Sound
:
10
the sound from the guitar is very rich and clear and carries through the room.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
9
The guitar came in almost Perfect condition except 4 strings were out of tune. which I quickly tune with the built in tuner. The action on is is pretty fast because the strings are lower than most setups. No need to press down hard on the strings to ring a note so I have to get use to that. was able to do bends almost like my electric guitar so that was pretty cool
Reliability/Durability
:
9
I am just a amature player but have play of and on for over 20 years and this guitar looks like it will last me as long as my 1st guitar, like all instruments if you take care of it it will last if you don't eventually it will break
Customer Support
:
10
Customer support is second to none I email them and told them they sent me the wrong color Guitar. No questions ask the next email I recieve was the tracking number of the correct color guitar that was being ship to me with another case. But I decline and kept the one that I recieve because I was so happy with the one that I recieve.
Overall Rating
:
9
I have been playing off and on for over 20 years I own a yamaha acoustic and a Fender strat. If I need another Acoustic will purchase another Zager. I play Martin,Ovation,Ibanez,washburn and takemine at a big chain music store in NY and I like the zager. There may be better guitars out there but for this price I was extremely happy and the return Policy that they had was 2nd to none. Try buying a Guitar from a Music store and tell them a week later that you dont want it and see if you can get a full refund.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 01/19/2008
at 09:53pm
by August
Features
:
10
Full size dreadnaught, acoustic electric (CE). Mahogany back and sides, solid spruce top, rosewood fretboard and bridge and abalone inlays. Beautiful instrument! Grover tuning gears. Signed and dated by Mr. Zager with individual serial # and a lifetime guarantee. I don't know much about the technical aspects of electronics but I understand it is a threeband equalizer w/LCD tuning. (Clear Wave 10). I have a small Fender amplifier and when it's hooked up - works great. I purchased a locking hard case w/it which, in my opinion, is very high quality which would have cost twice as much had I bought it locally. As soon as I opened the package and handled the guitar the quality was obvious to me.
Sound
:
10
I can't give you a professional review because I've never had that kind of audience; but, I've been playing guitar for a personal hobby on and off for a fair amount of time and the instrument sounds wonderful to me as well as to my family who are my best critics. Acoustic and/or electric with a small 20G Fender amplifier sounds great. I have no complaints.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
Everything was top notch. Finish on the guitar is beautiful - not a scratch or blemish anywhere. I've had the guitar for a year now and have not changed a single thing (other than strings) since I received it. Set up was exactly what it should have been - action was comfortable and easy, no fret buzz, perfectly in tune, etc. No complaints - in fact, can't even think of any recommendations to make it better.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
Only time will tell but after a year, everything is still solid and I've had no issues at all. I don't play professionally, but if I did I would have no trouble taking this without a backup. If something does go wrong I have no doubt that Zager will honor their lifetime warranty.
Customer Support
:
10
As noted above, the warranty is "lifetime" - I don't believe it gets much better than that. Everytime I have corresponded with Zager guitar I have received a considerate and thorough response almost immediately (within the hour). That is remarkable! I know a lot of companies that would do well to follow their example.
Overall Rating
:
10
I'm not a professional player and I have no intention of every buying a multi-thousand dollar guitar but I do very much enjoy my amateur playing and I'm not sure I could have found a better playing guitar. Even if I could have, I'm sure that it would not have been at a more fair price. I've got a couple of other guitars (acoustic)and they have been sitting in their cases for the past year.If something ever happens to this one, I'll certainly get another one. If they ever decide to make a solid-body electric - there's not much question but that I'll have to have one of those too. They can consider me among their many satisfied customers.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 450.00
Submitted 01/17/2008
at 01:08am
by Rick Shields
Features
:
9
ZAD 50 CE is a great acoustic with built in tuner, wonderful hardware all top notch. It was made in 2007 by the exacting standards of Denny Zager. It came with extra strings, picks, and a nice T shirt and also was packed very well for shipping, even all the way to Alaska.
Sound
:
9
The sound from this guitar rivals instruments 5 times the price. The tone is rich and full, tuning down or using a capo is no problem with this guitar. I have played many other guitars, both cheap and expensive and this guitar outshines them all.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
When I took possession of this guitar it had been shipped UPS to Alaska. It came out of the box only slightly out of tune and everything about the finish, the stringing, the build of the box insides, is near to perfect. I found no flaws whatsoever, no scratches, abrasions, wrinkles, nothing, only a wonderfully built guitar.
Reliability/Durability
:
9
Of course a backup is always prudent, but so far I wouldn't hesitate to use this guitar for a live show. I have had it about 4 months now waiting to find the problems and so far have found none. It stays in tune better than any guitar I have owned before and for the foreseeable future I don't see any reason this guitar won't last the test of time.
Customer Support
:
10
This area is the best area of all. The Zager folks are THE most helpful and courteous people in any industry not just guitar manufacturers. I wish all my dealings with various companies would be with folks with such high standards as the Zagers'. Every question, every email was answered within minutes, not hours or days, minutes. And not only that there wss never a misread in any emails, always you could tell they were read by human being that wanted to serve. Customer Service, the Best of any industry!!
Overall Rating
:
10
Been playing for a few years, I quit for several years and this was my first purchase for a guitar after that time. I researched, compared, played other brands, Martin, Epiphone, Fender but even though this was an internet purchase and I couldn't actually play it before plunking down the mulah, I wasn't disappointed in the least, and I saved a lot of money over some of these other brands too! It it was lost I wouldn't hesitate a minute to replace it with an exact replica of what I have now. I wish I could find something to hate about this instrument, but I can't, it keeps right on being a very satisfying play for me.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 01/10/2008
at 10:29pm
by Walt McVey
Features
:
10
Features inclued a dreadnought cutaway design acoustic/electric, solid spruce top, mohogany laminate sides and back, rosewood bridge and fret board. Sealed Grover Tuning gears. Volume, presence and 3 way tone controls with built in tuner. Zager EZ Play setup. Manufactured in 2007. Hand carved custom nut and saddle. Gloss finish. 100% money back guarantee including all shipping plus a lifetime warranty.
Sound
:
10
As I am a beginning student of the guitar at age 50, my ear is not yet trained as to what a fine guitar vs. an average guitar vs. a cheap guitar sound like. All I can say is that the sound and the sustain are very good, and the sound of the ZAD 50CE is much brighter and more interesting than the guitar I can compare it to which I would classify as average.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
9
I purchased one of your discount guitars, and I must admit that I was
very impressed with the fit and finish of the guitar. There were two
flaws that I found that had I purchased a new guitar, I would probably be looking to replace it. One is a small (about 1/3") what appears to be a crack in the polymer portion of the neck at the bass side edge right next to the sound hole. Since this polymer does not crack only on the surface, I'm certain that this is just a small tool mark that was to deep to come out when the piece was finished, and it has some dirt in it making it appear dark on the white polymer. The other imperfection I noted is a small (about 1/8" to 1/4" square) marring of the plastic window to the tuner. With the exception of these two very small imperfections, I would classify the fit and finish as being excellent. The imperfections noted in no way would influence the function of this (what I would describe as) fine instrument. An excellent value for the price paid.
For me the most remarkable feature of this guitar is the ease of play. Keep in mind that I have been a guitar player for all of two weeks, so I use the word play with a little tongue in cheek. I have initially been working to learn and play 4 chords. On the guitar I had been playing, I got three of these chords to sound clearly, but the pain and the pressure required to get them to sound clearly made the chord change impossible to even a slow tempo. The 4th chord I had not even been able to get to sound clearly at all. I knew I had a long and arduous road head of me to even be able to change between 4 simple chords. The first night I played the ZAD 50CE, I was sounding all 4 chords cleanly with very little effort, and was well on my way to changing these chords on the beat to a slow tempo. This is the main reason I purchased your guitar, and I could not be happier with what I have found.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
The finish and hardware appear as though it will be very durable. Time will tell, but there are no glaring problems that are apperant
Customer Support
:
10
Exceptional! All questions answered within minutes of emails being sent. Lifetime warranty and 60 day 100% satisfaction guarentee including all shipping. These folks are building and running a family business the old fasioned way. There is nothing more important to them than their customer's satisfaction. They would rather have my guitar back to make me happy than to report the sale in their annual report. They are 100% responsive.
Overall Rating
:
10
What I love about this guitar is the ease of play. My mother bought my father a guitar in 1969. He had short stubby fingers, and after about three months of attempting to learn to play, he gave it up stating it was physically impossible. Genetics and chance have dictated that I have the same short stubby fingers my father had. The guitar I started on was very difficult, and I feared that I would be following in my fathers footprints. Now with the ZAD-50CE, I feel very confident that I will be able to learn this instrument. My practice session this morning was 1.5 hours, and I quit only to go to work and not due to fatige. If this instrument were lost or stolen, I would certainly replace it with the exact sam model.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 01/09/2008
at 01:25pm
by Roy Olson
Features
:
10
My guitar arrived as promised with a flawless black finish, just beautiful. Grover tuners is a special touch and the neck fits me perfectly. This the first guitar I've purchased brand new and I'm very happy with the entire transaction.
Sound
:
10
After playing a Guild 12-string for many years, I had thoughts of a disappointing sound from ny new Zager but was amazed at the sound right out of the box. Guitars get better with age. I can't wait.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
I really like the action of this guitar. There is virtually no finger fatigue even after lengthy playing sessions. You just don't have to press hard at all. As I said, my guitar arrived in perfect condition.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I'm very sure of this instrument's durability, mostly because of my initial impression of its overall quality. Everything is solidly assembled and properly finished. As for a backup guitar, since I use both 6- and 12-string instruments I would have two with me but do not consider one as a backup to the other. I have plenty of confidence in my Zager.
Customer Support
:
10
My dealings with Zager guitars and the Zager family have been nothing short of outstanding. I had some special shipping requests, which they honored promptly. E-mail commuications were always responded to right away. They were extremely helpful and very professional.
Overall Rating
:
10
I've been playing since 1974. I have three other guitars, a Takamine 12-string (the Martin lawsuit version), a huge and heavy Guild 12-string and an Ibanez 6-string acoustic/electric.
If my Zager was lost or stolen I would definitely replace it with another Zager.
I really love the action, the complete ease of playing. There are no dislikes. One standout feature is the flawless black finish.
I din't make any out and out comparisons between Denny's guitars and any others. I have played enough different ones to have some definite dislikes. To me Martins are hard to play, tough on the fingers. My Ibanez is hard to play for the same reason. I figured that if Zager Guitars offers a no-questions-asked return policy, then it's a winning situation for me. I am so pleased with the ease of playing that returning my instrument is not an option.
It has everything I want in an acoustic 6-string.
I couldn't help but notice some of the negative comments and just can't agree. If you want an acoustic guitar to beat the hell out of, consider a National Steel
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 600
Submitted 01/03/2008
at 12:27am
by Jim Jenkins
Features
:
9
Transparent finish, cutaway, Grover tuners, widened neck for ease of fingering, included truss rod tool and extra strings, made 11/7/07, 20 frets, solid top, volume/bass/mid/treble/presence/built in tuner, Fishman acoustic/electric installed, rosewood fret board.
Sound
:
10
The guitar has a rich full sound with great sustain and even string volume. I use a Line 6 15w amp. The tone and presence adjustments on the guitar give good variations on the basic sound
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
9
The guitar is personally adjusted by Denny Zager before it is shipped. The finish is excellent.
Reliability/Durability
:
8
It seems solid and should last. It is my only gig guitar.
Customer Support
:
10
The warranty is unlimited and the company is very helpful and friendly.
Overall Rating
:
9
I have been playing for 56 years. I also own a Yamaha guitar. I have owned and played Gibson, Yamaha, Stella, and custom made guitars.I would definately get another Zager. I love the rich even sound and ease of playing. I can't imagine a better guitar for the price.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 12/27/2007
at 04:28pm
by Randall Dail
Features
:
10
* Full size Dreadnought with Cutaway
* Spruce top with Mahogany back and sides
* Black - Gloss Finish
* Rosewood bridge & fretboard
* Grover tuners
* Abalone inlay rosette
* Nut, Saddle & Frets done by hand for wider string spacing and
lower action.
* Onboard chromatic tuner and EQ.
Sound
:
10
Full range, very warm yet bright. Excellent resonance.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
I have tried many guitars from $500 - $1,500. Epiphone, Fender, Gretsch & Martin. Everything I tried was no comparison to the Zager when it comes to ease of playing. I have large hands and the neck and string spacing of the Zager helped me a lot. Only the Martin was comprable in overall quality, fit & finish.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I have only had this instrument for a little over a week so I will have to give my best speculation here. The construction is very good, the hardware is top shelf (Grover tuners)and the finish seems very durable. I would say this is a guitar you could depend on for a live performance, no problem. No backup required. If you are still uncertain Zager has a Lifetime Warranty.
Customer Support
:
10
I have not had any issues, but did have several questions before purchasing that were answered in a very prompt and professional manner. They offer a Lifetime Warranty with their guitars - 100% Satisfaction Gauranteed. This is a Family Buisness that relies on word of mouth.
Overall Rating
:
10
Great value, would buy another one right away if mine was stolen. This guitar looks great and plays/sounds even better.
Their demo models are another good deal. Save more for a few pickgaurd scratches. I barely saw one slight scratch (it still had the protective film over it).
I do wish it had 2nd strap button. They do have a video to show reccomended place for installation on their website and this is a easy fix.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 12/13/2007
at 12:42am
by Heavy Hander
Features
:
5
Lots of details already documented on this guitar. Just a plain acoustic guitar with electronics.
Sound
:
5
I don't care much for the sound of this guitar. It sounds thin to me. It does project fairly well. The sound is unsatisfying.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
3
Here's where I have to part ways with my fellow ZAD reviewers. This is a cheap guitar made from cheap material. I was disappointed to see small dents in the top, fresh from the man. It felt cheap in my hands, and I play cheap guitars. The sides and back were pretty. I didn't like the nut or the way the strings fit in the slots. The pins in the bridge didn't look uniform. The action was low. Very low. I couldn't play without the wound strings buzzing. Buzzing like crazy. Denny sent me a link to his help videos. I play with a heavy hand, that's just how I play. His advise for heavy handers? Play with the super flimsy picks he sends. These things are way too thin for me. In the video Denny states that there's no place for a heavy handed player. Well, I already have a playing style (hey, I didn't know) and I don't want to change 1) the strings I like 2) the picks I like and 3) the way I play. I figure a guitar should be used the way you want. I'm too entrenched in my style and I really like to dig into the strings. You can't do that with this guitar. If you order this from Zager, be sure to check it out. I may have been unlucky, but if the instrument I received is representative of the quality, I can't understand why there are so many great ratings. Anyway, buyer beware.
Reliability/Durability
:
5
I don't think it would hold up long under my punishment.
Customer Support
:
8
Not too bad. I'm glad their return policy is no questions asked. I did not want to insult Denny, but I definitely wanted my money back. I received the ZAD in two days. I sent it back. Ten days later I had to email Denny to ask about the refund to my credit card account. He thanked me for the heads-up and in two days I had the credit show up.
Overall Rating
:
4
You can see that I think this ZAD is unimpressive. Now for you that want to try this risk-free, you better be careful while trying it. When I asked Denny how to return the guitar he said that it has to be in new condition to be returned. The plastic film has to be unpeeled and intact wherever it is. No scuff marks or scratches. Must have original strings. No modifications like adding strap button. Any kind of drilling or whatever is not allowed. These are all reasonable things. But I was sweating because of the dents on the top when it was delivered. I was glad Denny didn't blame me for them. He seems to be a good guy. Funny, when Denny sent me RMA, he said it was his last year of guitar work and he won't have any trouble selling the returned guitar and that they will only increase in value. It may be true. For my part, I think they are wildly overrated.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 12/11/2007
at 01:28am
by Flat Filed
Features
:
3
The features are pretty much covered by other reviewers. Things to note, solid top but laminated wood (plywood) sides and back. Dreadnought body with cut away, gloss finish and on-board tuner. Flat frets where modified by Zager (see comments later in review).
Sound
:
4
The guitar sounded reasonably well, I was initially impressed with the tone, however, the action was higher than I expected in the middle of the neck (12th fret). There was also major buzz on the open "D" string. It was hitting the first fret. The buzz was apparent even when picked normally with a light pick. Truss rod adjustment may have fixed this, but would also have adversely effect the middle of the neck action that I felt was already on the high side (see action comments).
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
1
Action is a personal thing, and is certainly subject to opinion. The action on the guitar that I received was unacceptable especially since what Zager is suppose to be selling is a well setup guitar. There was major buzz on the open D string as the nut appeared to be cut too low on just this string as the others were fine. Using a truss rod adjustment (as suggested by Zager) to fix this setup flaw was not an option in my mind. The action in the middle of the neck was already high and would have even gotten higher if I had done this. I could have done some bridge filing, to bring the action into spec around the middle of the neck, but the low nut on the D string was a major problem. HERE WAS THE DEAL BREAKER THOUGH: Many of the frets had been flat filed and had not been smoothed out properly. Evidently this is part of the adjustments that are done by Denny Zager. Most of the filed unfinished frets actually still have groves from the coarse file used to do the work. When the strings are bent on the filed frets the groves even cause an audible noise. I was very disappointed with the fret finishing.
Here is the reply I got to my concerns: Start quotes
"Denny sets up all of his guitars so the action is close at the head, but as you work your way down towards the sound hole the action should rise. String height should be right at 1/4 inch at the 12th fret."
"Denny goes over the frets for smoothness to a certain level but to keep the prices of our guitars affordable to every player he has to limit the amount of time he spends on cosmetic work which is what this is." I have had a few players over the years who said they preferred their frets smoothed out a little more, but most of these customers called back 6 months later saying the frets smoothed out on their own with play time...which is exactly how Denny designed it." End quotes
I know that 1/4 inch at the twelfth fret is fine for some people, but I expected better since action and "EZPlay" is what is advertised on his site. Sorry, but proper fret filing is NOT cosmetic work, as mentioned Zager's reply, it is really just proper setup. Using one's strings to smooth out the course fret grooves as mentioned in the above reply is laughable! I even found another reference to the flat fret filing that Zager does on another site. Here is the link (includes photos mimicking almost exactly what I saw on my ZAD 50CE flat filed frets): http://www.digitalcartography.com/ZagerGuitar.htm
On a positive side, the action in first position was fairly low, but the open D string buzzing made the guitar unplayable.
Reliability/Durability
:
2
The guitar went back after four days due to improper setup.
Customer Support
:
2
I received NO shipping confirmation, but the guitar arrived on time as claimed. My initial dealings with them were fine, but after the reply I received to my concerns, I was nearly speechless. They do have a no questions asked return policy if you are not happy with your purchase and an RMA was issued without too much of an issue. However, after a month since the returned guitar arrived back at their facility, I had not received a credit on my card. I had to remind them of the return and I was told a credit has now been issued. I am very disappointed with the whole experience.
Overall Rating
:
No Opinion
My main reason for writing this review is to provide an alternate opinion to all the rave "10" reviews that are so prevalent here. I also wanted to give those who read these reviews (I read every one) a meaningful view of my experience. I am not trying to bash Zager, but rather provide an accurate synopsis of my experience. I am not new to guitar, I have 30+ years experience and I know what a proper guitar setup is. The Zager 50CE I received was not setup properly and was not a quality instrument. If you are looking for a decent guitar in the price range of the ZAD 50CE, you might want to check out the new Taylor 110CE or 210CE.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 765.00
Submitted 12/06/2007
at 06:36pm
by Marc Barry
Email: marcb006<at>yahoo dot com
Features
:
10
This guitar has mahogany back and sides and a solid spruce top. It has a rosewood bridge and fret board. Genuine Grover sealed tuning gears. You have to buy the case seperately because there are several options and price range. There are 20 frets on the neck which are hand filed frets. The guitar is equipped with an onboard electronics package with equalization gives you the ability to change the sound according to your playing style. I think the neck is maple.
Sound
:
10
It has several features, which I find very useful. For instance, it has a built in electronic tuner which is very accurate and takes less time to tune the guitar than more traditional method. The sound is rich, very melodious, sounds almost like a piano since it's that rich. I don't have a "musical style" just yet... I consider myself a beginner and I have a lot of fun playing this guitar. I've been told it's very versatile guitar because many style of music can be played on it, from country to rock and pop.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
The gloss finish on this guitar is simply flawless and very shiny. I'm a huge fan of the sunburst finish and this one is simply the most gorgeous one I've seen and with the high gloss finish, simply breathtaking. Since it's a brand new guitar, everything on there is brand spanking new!! You can feel the quality of craftmanship that has been put into the making of this guitar. It's not that heavy but it's solid and the quality of the materials is simply astonishing.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
This guitar, I intend to pass it down to my son when he's old enough to play and with the quality of this instrument, I'm sure he'll pass it down to his son, it's that good. Everything on this guitar is solid and is made from very fine hardware and is built to last without a doubt in my mind.
Customer Support
:
10
Since you're dealing with a not so small family business, customer support is their highest priorities. The warranty lasts for a lifetime and there is a 100% money back guarantee I was surprised to find out that if for whatever reasons I would not be a 100% happy with my purchase, they would send my money back, no questions asked AND they would pay for shipping and handling BOTH ways. When you send an email, you can be assured you get a reply within 24 hours and in some cases even less than that. Now, how many companies do you know that feels this strongly about their products and reputation? I don't know too many I can assure you. But just the though to know that there are people who stands behind their products a 100%, this really says something. But I can assure you, they won't be seeing this guitar again...
Overall Rating
:
10
This guitar style has been developped by Mr. Denny Zager. Most of you know him for his contribution to the music world with his '69 hit "In The Year 2525" By Zager and Evans. Mr. Zager came up with a way to modify guitars to give them easier usage from it's owner. And in time, the E-Z Play system came to life. For several years now, Mr. Zager has been a master luthier and customizes guitars by hand. This is one feature that attracted me and brought me to consider a purchase from his company. The model I bought is a ZAD-50ce which is an accoustic / electric guitar. It has a jack at the bottom where you can plug the guitar in an amp. I own a fender Stratocaster and a Gibson "Les Paul" '56 model replica made by epiphone. And if this one should disappear, I would collect the insurrance money and get another one without a doubt. The customer service F.A.Q. is full of answers about anything you might think about asking so, all my enquiries were answered by reading this column. What I truly love about this guitar was the ease of playing. I gave up my guitar lessons because I was learning with a cllassical model and had a hard time playing because the neck was so huge and I would get "strings bites" on my fingers. So after putting my hands on this guitar, I felt immediately at ease and got no stringbites after playing with it for over 30 minutes non stop...I also like the built in tuner, makes it easy to tune and you can never misplace your tuner, it's built in... I also like the sound of the guitar going through an amplifier. It gives me goose bumps, it makes me want to practice even more so I could get better at it. Simply put there's nothing to hate about this guitar and everything to discover and enjoy and love. And for the price, You could never find such an exquisite guitar with such a gorgeous finish and quality sound for this kind of money. Anyone can afford this and think of the value. Me, I intend to pass this down to my son and he'll be able to do the same I'm definitely sure.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 685
Submitted 12/06/2007
at 03:09pm
by Katia
Features
:
9
Lovely guitar with a nice satin finish. Dreadnought with non locking tuners, thin neck scale included picks, tools, and others. full controls on amplifier.
Sound
:
10
It suits my style very well. I play unamplified as much as amplified and have found it to be a very versitile guitar. It works well with every amp and sound system I have tried it with with no fuzz, squealing or feedback. The sound is full, rich and clear-especially when amplified.
I like the sound and would love to play it amplified more.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
9
The guitar was well made at the factory, and was then hand modified by Denny Zager I am very satisfied with the action--very easy to play, but not too low as to cause buzzing on the frets.
The finish is good
Reliability/Durability
:
9
It seems like a very well put together guitar that will stand heavy use. I have not had it long enough to say positively, but everything is solid, and I have definately used it on gigs without backup.
Customer Support
:
No Opinion
It has a 100% warrenty, and the people I dealt with were very professional, but very friendly and helpful. They went out of their way to make sure I would be satisfied. I have not needed any repair work.
Overall Rating
:
10
I have been playing for two years, and have played 6 and 12 strings, electric, acoustic and some bass.
I would certainly (and have) recommend the Zager guitars, and would buy there again.
The only thing that I would have liked better was if there was a strap button on the top of the body as well as the bottom.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 11/29/2007
at 01:20pm
by Randy Hitts
Email: rjhitts at aol<dot>com
Features
:
10
My Zager ZAD50 CE is a cutaway and has a natural finish.The grover sealed tuners work great.I have large hands and the wide flat fretboard is very comfortable for me. The neck is on the thin side which is my perfered style. The guitar's bodies are made in Maylasia I believe, and then shipped to Zager where they are finished.Whats great about these are there are no laminates.Solid Spruce top,Mahogany sides and back.They look and sound great.It has fishmen electronics with built in tuner.Zager sends a lot of extras such as strings,picks,guitar stand,T-shirt and even a polroid pic of Denny Zager working on your guitar.Although cases or gig bags cost extra.
Sound
:
10
I am a worship leader and I needed a quality acoustic/ electric guitar.I was looking at low end Taylor's and some Gibsons.They sounded good but for my budget I could only afford Taylor's with laminted sides and back or Epiphone Gibsons.I ran across Zagers by word of mouth and for the same money I could get a solid wood acoustic.The sound is very bright almost piano like.It is loud even unplugged and the Fishmen electronic give it gret sound through the sound system at church
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
I bought one of the discounted blemished models, but all I could see wrong with it was some pick marks on the pick gaurd.The playability of this guitar is amazing.The nut and tail piece are custom worked by Denny and the bracing is scaloped for extra sound. The only drawback is that you can not use heavy strings on this guitar which I never use anyway but if you prefer heavy gauge strings this is not a guitar for you
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I have had this guitar for a month and it has never let me down.They only have a rear strap button but they included a button for the front but I had to have it installed myself.
Customer Support
:
10
This guitar features a lifetime warrenty and the staff is very helpful.But I have never had any issues with this guitar yet.
Overall Rating
:
10
I have over 30 years of rocking and rolling, touring in bands like Question Mark & the Mysterians and so many club acts I can't name them all, But since 2001 I have been just worship leading.I would recomend this guitar to anyone who is considering a low end Taylor or Gibson or even beginers. This guitar plays so easy you can play all day without hurting your fingers.The sound would compare with guitars 3to 5 times its price.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 645
Submitted 11/14/2007
at 06:29pm
by bob
Email: robert<dot>ramsey at mchsi<dot>com
Features
:
10
Natural
Realy great clear finish
Dreadnought cutaway
String-thru body
Grover Tuners
Neck is thin and eash to navigate.
Purchased their hardshell case with humidity/temperature instrument
Had a neck adjusting wrench
Have not located where it was made, or year.
Has a wide range of controls, and built in tuner. Piezo pickup.
Sound
:
10
It works well as a hobby or for a returning guitar player.
Have a peavy amp, but doubt it will be used much. The guitar has full rich sound.
Takes a bit more reaching around the body than my thin body Gibson.
I think the fingers will get trained to work with this.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
The best setup I have ever used.
Pickups work well, so feel it is correct.
Can hardly tell the top is bookmarked.
Can't locate any flaws.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I think it will stand up.
Hardware looks like it should last.
Finish is as good as any I have seen.
Only one strap button - might add one later, but will most likely tie around the back of the nut.
I have no doubt that I can depend on it.
I would be happy to use it without a backup.
Customer Support
:
10
I have no doubt that I could get it repaired.
It has a lifetime warranty.
So far, I got answers to any question I have had, and quickly.
Overall Rating
:
10
I am 72, and started at 15. However, I am coming back after a 30 year layoff. I have a couple very old Harmonys, and a Gibson E330TD
I think everything was covered in their web site.
I would no reservations about replaceing it with another Zager.
Love everything about it. Only "dislike", is retraining myself to reach around the large body. Looked at Martin, Gibson, Epifone, Alverez, and a bunch others I can't recall. I chose this one, because I thought I could afford it, and their information made sense.
It would be nice if there were a strap button where Denny recomends placeing one.
I think this is a winner.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 11/13/2007
at 10:19pm
by Ray
Features
:
10
I recently purchased the Zager ZAD50CE, in natural. I also purchased a custom wood guitar case with it.
The ZAD-50CE Acoustic/Electric
built in transducer and electronics package
Full size venetian cutaway box
Onboard electronics package with equalization
Built in electronic tuner with LED readout
- Venetian cutaway box
- Solid spruce top
- Mahogany back & sides
- Sealed "Grover" Tuning Gears
- Built in transducer
- Onboard electronics & EQ
- Onboard electronic tuner
- Guitar strap audio jack
- Abalone inlay rosette
- Tortoise shell pick guard
- Gloss finish
- Hand carved custom nut
- Hand carved custom saddle
- Hand filed frets
- Scalloped X-bracing
- Rosewood fret-board
- Rosewood bridge
- Genuine "Martin" strings
- Zager EZ-Play Modified
- Lifetime warranty
- 100% money back guarantee
Sound
:
10
The sound that comes out of this guitar are incredible. I have played guitars that were cheaper, and some that were much more expensive, this sound compares with the best that I have played. The highs are bright and crisp, and the lows carry very well. The intunation on this guitar is right on.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
The guitar arrived a little out of tune, but with the onboard tuner, it was in tune within seconds. The modified string science that is used on this guitar make it very easy to play. I was able to play for hours with no finger fatigue. And the sound...
Reliability/Durability
:
8
Because I recently purchased this guitar, I cannot attest to durability, other than to say it appears to be very well built, with amazing attention to detail taken with it.
Customer Support
:
10
The people at Zager are incredible. This appears to be a small company with that down home feel to it. All communications are dealt with directly, honestly, and personally by Denny Zager Jr or one of the staff in the office. Very friendly. This area if very important to me, and they excel at it!
Overall Rating
:
10
I've been playing for over 23 years on acoustics and electrics. I am not a professional by any stretch, and I love to play more for myself and family, and occaisionally at church. I was impressed when I first looked at this guitar online, and with all the positive ratings I felt it was worth the risk to order one. I can only say that I would buy it again for twice the price, and I would recommend this guitar to everyone that I know who plays, and especially to those who want to learn without the frustration that often accompanies a difficult beginner guitar.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 645
Submitted 11/01/2007
at 11:51pm
by Jack Maskell
Features
:
9
My guitar is a clear finish acoustic/electric with Grover tuners, solid spruce top, mahagony back and sides, and a rosewood neck.I don't know much about electronics so I won't offer an opinion. I am not sure where it's made, but the "easy-play" is put on by Denny in Nebraska I believe. It arrived in perfect condition. It is definitely not a "student grade" guitar, I'm dreading the first scratch I put on it.
Sound
:
10
I took my guitar to my instructor for his opinion and he was very impressed by the sound and how much bass it had being new. The cutaway style does diminish the volume some over my old full size acoustic, but the tone is far superior. I like to play Bob Segar, John Mellencamp, some Pink Floyd, The Beatles and any classic rock that has a rythm that you know without a word of the song being sung. If you ever hear me sing you'd understand why. Songs with a variety of hammer-on, slides, pull-offs and the like sound really well because the fullness and clearness of this guitar is fantastic!
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
This is where this guitar shines in my opinion. I'm a 53 year old lefty who has only been playing for about three years. I was ready to just hang it up because I just didn't have enough flexibility to advance and after just thirty minutes of playing, my right hand would ache from the base of my thumb to base of my index finger. I can now play for two hours with hardly any discomfort at all. It didn't turn me into Clapton, but just being able to sit down and work on my playing for hours is definitly helping. Chords are easier to form and the guitar stays in tune.
Reliability/Durability
:
9
This guitar is very solid and the the finish appears very durable. How well it would withstand live playing I would imagine would depend on the style you play. It is strung with extra light strings and heavier strings are not recomended. If you like to hammer your acoustic, this is probably not the guitar for you. The sound is full and clear, if I was performing in public, it would be the guitar I would choose. Everything on this guitar reflects quality. Can you play a guitar any other way but live?
Customer Support
:
10
The guitar has a lifetime warranty and barring any problems with the electronics, I don't expect I'd use it. This was the only choice they offered for a lefty like me. I wasn't looking for anacoustic/ electric guitar when I started out so I felt I was paying an extra hundred dollars for a built-in tuner, but now that I have it, I just gotta get an amp. Denny jr. has been very prompt at answering all my questions although their website is set up so well that I didn't have very many to ask.
Overall Rating
:
10
I have only been playing for three years. My only other guitar is a Hohner acoustic with a solid spruce to and maple back and sides. My daughter has a very nice Alvarez and my Zager blows them both away. I would buy another one in a heartbeat. For us lefties, there are not many choices sitting out there in the music shops. You either get the student special or the professional performance model that is priced in the thousands. Nothing I picked up played as easily or sounded any better than my Zager. I would put it up against anyone of my friend's guitars.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 10/20/2007
at 10:09am
by NIGHTHAWK
Email: rdfusse<at>hotmail dot com
Features
:
10
MAHOGANY SIDES AND BACK SOLID SPRUCE TOP
SEALED GROVER TUNERS. HAND FILED FRETS, HAND CUT BRIDGE AND NUT, ROSEWOOD SADDLE ROSEWOOD NECK. ONBOARD TUNER, ONBOARD TRANSDUCER, ONBOARD EQ MARTIN STRINGS
Sound
:
10
FULL RICH SOUND STRUMMING OR PICK. AWESOME TRUE SOUND WITH TUBE AMP AND SOLIDSTATE AMP. COUNTRY, SOFT ROCK, 70'S , 80'S,
HAVE SO CALLED "TOP OF THE LINE GUITARS" GIBSON, FENDER ECT. tHE ZAGER IS NOW MY # 1 PLAYER
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
GUITAR CAME OUT OF THE BOX IN TUNE , ACTION PERFECT, FINISH AND FIT PERFECT.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
THIS GUITAR HAS BEEN PLAYED HARD FROM THE TIME IT CAME OUT OF THE BOX. MY OTHER ACOUSTICS ARE NOW FOR SALE AS WELL AS SOME OF MY ELECTRICS. NO FEAR OF USING WITHOUT BACK-UP
Customer Support
:
10
GUITAR HAS 100% CUSTOMER SATISFACTION INCLUDING SHIPPING AND HANDLEING. LIFE TIME WARRANTY WIYH ON LINE HELP CENTER
Overall Rating
:
10
BEEN PLAYING OFF AND ON FOR 30 YEARS. IF LOST ARE STOLEN ONLY A ZAGER WOULD DO. LIKE EVERYTHING ABOUT GUITAR AND CAN THINK OF NOTHING TO MAKE IT BETTER.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 515.00
Submitted 10/19/2007
at 06:51pm
by Joseph Krygier
Email: pasjk at verizon<dot>net
Features
:
9
- My ZAD50 CE is a full size Dreadnought, with a solid spruce top, mahogany back & sides, rosewood bridge, rosewood fret-board, hand waxed and 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. Also harware for a strap peg, three picks and a new set of strings- Martins, came with the purchase ( also bought a hardwood custom case on sale at an honest on sale price)
It came with a 100% money back guarantee and a lifetime warranty.
I purposely bought a slightly flawed instrument with an "invisible" hair thick scratch near the tuning pegs and saved enough money to cover the shipping.
Sound
:
10
I play Celtic style and folk style and various styles of hymns. The sound is so right and what I was looking for. The overall sound is very consistent even with a capo up to the fifth fret. Nice tones, very bright highs and nice deep lower strings. Very balanced especially for finger picking. (I also play Classical on another instrument).
I can't say thee is anything I dislike about the sound except thati f you do some streching up for effect at the first string higher frets it seems to grate a wee bit on the fret.( Although I would very rarely play that way) But then the setting for the strings is very low which makes the name Ez Play true to its logo.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
The custom action is like no other I have played in an acoustic. Much closer to a really good electric.
Reliability/Durability
:
9
This guitar should hold up well. Hardware is solid, finish is very well done. No worry about a back up. Have not had to put it through any rigorous use yet but I don't handle a guitar in rough environments or long distance traveling
Customer Support
:
10
Excellent. Period
Overall Rating
:
10
I have been playing for 39 years.
I also own a custom made Classical guitar made by Renato Bellucci in Paraguay.
I still have a Guild D-25 which the Zager will replace . I have had it since 1982. It is a bit beat up, needed some bridge work and the neck is getting a little narrow for these older hands. I wold replace it immediately with a Zager.
Favorite feature is the ease of the neck and fretboard on the left hand, especially with a little bit of arthritis.
This may be an overglowing review but it is an honest one. This is a really wonderful instrument.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 600
Submitted 10/15/2007
at 05:44pm
by Guy Lester
Features
:
9
This steel-string flat top acoustic is a cut-away design with built-in transducer and eletcronics.
I especially like the built-in tuner. The finish is very deep gloss,a nd it highlights the grain of the wood. I have found that the guitar is very playable with easy action. The neck is slim (like that on many electric guitars), and you can get your average length thumb around to the low E string to press it down (as I do often). I would have preferred a slightly thinner turn at the back sides of wither side (that is, low E and high E) of the neck, but I have gotten used to that (and did within a few minutes of playing). On this point I am being picky.
Tuners are very smooth.
Sound
:
10
I bought this to supplement my Tacoma Chief, which has a very tight and bright sound.
The sound is very open and balanced. Very good sustain throughout its range.
I play mostly finger style, and I like that the sound quality is balanced whether I pluck with fingertips (skin) or nails.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
a beautiful job. This is a very pretty instrument with fine fit and finish
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I have only had the guitar 2 months, but so far it feels very solid and well made.
Customer Support
:
10
Excellent.
I bought from Zager directly.
They answered all my questions up front and were very patient.
After the sale, they continued to be very responsive.
Overall Rating
:
10
I wish all guitar builders and sellers were this good.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 10/13/2007
at 05:30pm
by Rover63
Features
:
10
Go to zagerguitars.com fro the specs. This guitar is the best quality acoustic/electric guitar ever made by the nation's best master luthier. I've been playing rock/folk/rock/country/pop/alternative everything acoustic guitar since the age of five. That's 38 years as a musician. Denny's been making Zager and modifying Martins since 1969. You HAVE to play/own one to know what I'm talking about. EZ play doesn'y mean it plays itself...it means it's modified to play like a $3000 top end...sound like one...yet affordable to all of us true musicians who have priorities and choose not to spend big bucks for a "Brand Name" Taylor or Martin. If I had a "sugar daddy" I'd still stay with Zager. The best acoustic guitar ever made in the USA.
Sound
:
10
no effects...plugged into Mackie powered PA system. Sounds bright, rich and full in tone. People always ask...what's this Zager??
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
sweet low action with no fret buzz
Reliability/Durability
:
10
this is made for live guitar playing, finish is top of the line, extremely dependable, rarely even needs to be tuned...yup, rarely. The only reason I'd have another Zager for back up is if I break a string and don't have time between songs to change it.
Customer Support
:
10
Zager Guitars is a small family-owned business based in Lincoln, NE. Lifetime warranty. Staff is friendly and always available via live chat and/or e-mail. Denny even offers guitar lessons on-line for beginners to advanced students.
Overall Rating
:
10
If it were stolen I'd cry, then get angry...calm down call my insurance agent and order another guitar from Zager. I shudder to think.
I've been playing guitars my entire life. I'm a Fender freak for electric bass and electric six-string. I've played all kinds of acoustics and have owned a new Martin. Even that one wasn't as sweet as this Zager.
If you don't own one, I'm sorry for you. Check 'em out.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 500
Submitted 10/03/2007
at 01:13pm
by Howie
Features
:
10
Beautifully made, same outstanding quality as a Martin
Sound
:
10
Sound is unbelievably fantastic for a guitar in this price range.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
I always had problems due to a disability, the Zager easy play set-up allowed me to play and not give up.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I have had mine for over a year and have had no problems.
Customer Support
:
10
Have contacted them a few times and got immediate professional responses.
Overall Rating
:
10
Outstanding value and top customer service.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 09/24/2007
at 12:02pm
by Donna Bernadino
Features
:
10
Sound
:
10
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
9
Reliability/Durability
:
No Opinion
Too soon to tell but appears to be solid
Customer Support
:
10
I received prompt, professional, and courteous responses to all of my emails. Denny Zager was very helpful with every aspect of my purchase. COuldn't be more pleased.
Overall Rating
:
10
I would definitely recommend Zager guitars. For the money, the instrument and the customer service cannot be beat.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 595.00
Submitted 09/24/2007
at 01:46am
by Brent Gordon
Features
:
10
Check web site for list of features. Most importantly, the EZ-Play system
Amazing engineering!
Sound
:
10
Absolutely the best sounding acoustic guitar I've played. I've recorded albums with a mid 60's Martin D28 and the Zager sounds equally as rich and brilliant. The projection is crisp , rich and full of tone. Wonderful spectrum. The mids are smooth and mellow, the lows are deep yet clear and the highs are definitive and crisp. I also play it through a Marshall AS50D for an unbelievable sweet tone.The sound must be heard to be appreciated!
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
The finish is impeccable. It could be coffee table art. Solid craftsmanship through and through. Binding , fret work, inlay, finish all top shelf. You can expect the same quality from a high end guitar costing quadruple the price. It came right out of the case IN TUNE and set up perfectly. I am used to playing electric guitar and I was apprehensive of committing to play acoustic due to the uncomfortable experience playing other acoustic that had stiff, high action. I continue to be thrilled at how easily this guitar plays. I can work the whole neck and not get fatigued.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I've had the guitar just a few weeks, but it is built very sturdy and solidly. Proper care will insure that this guitar will last the life of the player and then be able to be passed on to the next player in the family.
Customer Support
:
10
"Johhny on the spot" should summerize. I had a few question before I placed my order and it seems that Denny Jr. was on his computer when I emailed my questions in because he responded very soon afterward. It not someone in India folks, support is right here and personel. No form letter emails here.
Overall Rating
:
10
I did A LOT of research before I purchased this guitar. I actually had already placed an order for a Carvin (great electrics) then cancelled that order and bought the Zager. I am very happy I did! I played all the Carvins at the showroom as well as many others at guitar center and hands down the Zager beat them all in action AND sound.
Bottom line, if you're looking for an incredible guitar, buy a Zager. They will guarantee your satisfaction or every penny will be refunded, even shipping. Carvin offers 10 days to decide(less shipping) Zager gives you a month! No questions asked. Zager = win, win.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 09/22/2007
at 04:00pm
by George
Features
:
10
This is my first accoustic/electric guitar that I have ever owned. I stumbled across the Zager website accidently when I was searching the web for accoustic guitars. The model I chose is the ZAD-50CE with the black, hi-gloss finish. The finish on this guitar is as perfect as humanly possible. It is a dreadnought design with a venetian cutaway to make it easier to finger the high notes. It has a solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a rosewood bridge and fretboard. The electronics has an onboard equalizer and a tuner! What really sold me on this guitar are the modifications that Denny Zager makes to it so that it will be easier to play. The nut is customized allowing the strings to be a bit farther apart and lower to the fretboard. The frets are filed down so that the strings don't buzz against it. Plus a couple other modifications that just make the guitar easier to play. The neck is also thinner than most guitars so it is easier to form chords, etc. Especially if you have small to medium sized hands.
Sound
:
10
This is my first accoustic guitar so I don't really have anything to compare it to. But all I can say is that the sound is clean and vibrant. There is no buzzing or tinny sounds. Just full with good tone. Even though this is an accoustic electric I have been enjoying that 'unplugged' sound that I haven't even tried plugging it into my Peavey amp yet.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
Having had only two other guitars, both being solid body electrics, I can truthfully say that my Zager is MUCH easier to play than any of my other guitars. Both my solid body electrics were purchased from a local music store so I just assumed the actions were adjusted by one of their technicians before the guitars were sold. I was always hesitant about buying a guitar through the internet because I didn't believe the sellers would set up the guitars properly. Maybe I just got lucky by choosing a Zager but this guitar is super easy to play and my left hand doesn't get tired trying to hold down the strings.
Reliability/Durability
:
No Opinion
I have not has this guitar long enough to judge long term durability so I am not going to offer an opinion at this point. But my gut feeling is that it can stand up to anything you put it through as long as it isn't abused. This guitar stays in tune for several days, probably due to its light action and quality gears. As I said earlier the black, hi-gloss finish is beautiful. I am very careful to not let belt buckles or shirt buttons or anything like that to rub against the guitar and possibly scratch it since any dark, hi-gloss finish will show scratches more readily than a natural or sunburst type of finish.
Customer Support
:
10
I have not had to use Zager's customer support for any kind of warranty work but I did contact them a few times before purchasing my guitar and asked them questions. They were always willing to take as much time as possible to answer my questions and I never felt like I was being rushed to get off the phone. Also, when the customer support rep on the phone wasn't able to answer one of my technical questions he didn't try to fake an answer but informed me that he would have to find out that answer from Denny Jr. and get back to me. That impressed me. I don't fault someone for not knowing something when they are more than willing to seek out the correct answer and get back to me.
Overall Rating
:
10
I have been playing guitar on and off since I was 15. I am now 54. I am by no means an accomplished player. I play for my own enjoyment. This Zager just makes it easier for me to sound better. On my electrics I always had problems with forming clean chords where my fingers didn't touch an adjacent string. The wider string spacing on the Zager alleviates that. I can wholeheartedly recommend a Zager guitar to anyone looking for a high quality instrument at a reasonable price.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 09/20/2007
at 09:44pm
by macxian
Features
:
10
Natural finish on top. Grover tuners. It has 20 frets and the cutaway allows access to all of them. The guitar has a built in tuner, which is in itself a great feature. The built in electronics sound just great.
Sound
:
9
I have played guitar about 60 years, various styles. I now play country, bluegrass, and my latest endeavor is playing the blues. The Zad-50ce does great playing the blues, and country. For bluegrass, I prefer my 1954 Martin. However that is just for shear volumn. The Zad is so much easier to play.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
I was unable to find any flaws when I received it. It was very slightly out of tune. The action is unbeatable. I have been a heavy player and it takes a little practice to play so easily, I find myself gripping the neck chords too much, un necessarily.
Reliability/Durability
:
9
I really bought this guitar to take on gigs instead of my 1954 Martin, which has become too expensive to carry around and possible damage. After playing the Zad for awhile, I take as good care of it as I do the Martin. I truly love the way it play.
I thought Zager should have installed the strap button. I did so without any problem, using Zager's suggestion on the placement.
I depend on this guitar to take the place of my Washburn, my Jazzmaster andat time my Martin.
Customer Support
:
10
How can you go wrong with a life time warranty. I contacted Denny Zager Jr. as to his recommendation on the placement of the strap button. The answer was within 5 minutes. Very helpful and friendly.
Overall Rating
:
9
I am 75 years old and have been playing guitar for almost 60 years. I own a 1954 Martin acoustic, a washburn acoustic. A 1964 Fender Jazzmaster electric. Through the years I've had numerous brands.
The Zad-50ce I bought as a backup, but find it is lighter than my others and plays easier and sounds about as good. It is my primary guitar now.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 09/18/2007
at 01:47am
by Richard Stoll
Features
:
No Opinion
I have read a lot about Zagar guitars before I bought this one. With a $ back guarantee I saw no risk - but I have had it for 5 months and would never return it. A friend has a recording studio here in Las Vegas and I have let several studio musicians play it and they all have said it is really an exceptional instrument. The only flaw I could find is a slight rattle on the bass E string but the company said if I found anything wrong I could send it back to be rectified. I can fix the problem myself but it is so slight I haven't done that yet.
The quality of the components are as good as I could have picked myself.
This guitar plays beautifully!!! I attend acoustic guitar get- togethers in several locals and have tried custom guitars costing #5000 and up - I even had a classic Gibson tuned by Chet himself - but have never played one that feels better than this Zagar. I know, it sounds crazy for the price they charge but it's true and I have communicated with several pros that say the same thing.
I give this instrument a 9 1/2 and recommend it and the Zagar company highly.
Dr. Richard Stoll
Sound
:
No Opinion
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
No Opinion
Reliability/Durability
:
No Opinion
Customer Support
:
No Opinion
Overall Rating
:
No Opinion
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 640,760
Submitted 09/12/2007
at 05:35pm
by Lawrence
Features
:
10
This guitar is amazing. The Zad-50ce is a dreadnought acoustic with a solid spruce top and mahogany back, sides, and neck. The second I took it out what i noticed was the sheer beauty of it. It looked better than many of the high end Martins and Taylors out there.It has 21 frets with a cutaway. Also, the electronics are by Fishman that has an electronic tuner built in. The tuning is really on cue mainly because of the Grover sealed tuning pegs (the same as Martin's, Taylor's, and Gibson's $1500-$3000+ guitars use) but also a lot of it is the way that he teaches you to put the strings on and the way that the nut does not constrict the string, but lets it flow. The controls are a volume control, two kinds of tuning (auto and by notes) with an LCD display, 3-band EQ, and a presence control. An extra plus they put in is the abalone shell inlay around the sound hole, you won't find that on many guitars that cost under $3000. I bought the guitar with a pro molded case that has a humidity/temperature sensor, and the guitar came with an extra pack of Martin strings, two soft large picks, and a random gift, I got a T-shirt but I heard you can also get capos and such.
Sound
:
10
First of all, this is NOT a Martin copy as some reviews say. Martin prides its sound mostly on the bass end of the EQ, but the Zad 50ce is a happy medium between a very nice full bass and bright, VERY clean, shimmering highs. The guitar is great for any purpose, it is one of the most versatile guitars because of the fullness of this spectrum. My favorite thing about this guitar though goes to Mr. Zager's knowledge of how to brace a guitar. The sound coming out of this guitar is by far the loudest, most dynamic, colorful, clean, downright most beautiful I have ever heard. It made my Ibanez sound like a stick with strings and made many of the around $2000 dollar guitars that I play sound dull and dead. My only qualm is the slight stiffness of the sound, but because it is completely new rather than sitting on a shelf for a long time in a music store, so the wood hasn't aged yet and the stiffness is expected. In most cases even with high end expensive guitars, a guitar wouldn't sound anywhere this good out of the box new.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
This guitar plays like my Gibson... and I'm not talking about an acoustic, I play a Les Paul Standard Premium Plus as my main. The Zager plays like an electric guitar with crazy low action. Also, I have to say that every single square millimeter of this guitar is as perfect as humanly possible, and then some. The neck is as straight as an arrow and the contour of the body is just right. The nut slides easily and holds really well. The frets are hand filed and each note played is in perfect tune. The transducer makes the entire guitar come out surprisingly clean out of an amp. Overall, this guitar is perfect in every way, I found no flaws in the finish, the wood actually looked like a golden brown which was a nice cosmetic plus. Again my only qualm is that a better wood like rosewood would be nicer with the spruce top, but the mahogany is great as well.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I would take this guitar and will take this guitar anywhere I go, I would use this guitar without a backup, but then again I try to only buy equipment that I know will last without me worry about it getting destroyed, it's something you do not want to worry about when performing. I would not be surprised if i keep this for the rest of my life as my main acoustic. What else can I say that tops that?
Customer Support
:
10
This is another aspect where they shine bright. Send them an email, you get a reply usually under an hour, once I got it back in 10 minutes and that reply was paragraphs long. The warranty on this thing isn't some cheap 3 year protection, it is a LIFETIME warranty. Wow. Also, if you don't like the guitar, you get a 100% money back guarantee, no restocking fees, not even shipping fees, they give you back the money for the shipping back and forth. To show you how much they back-up their guitars, Denny Zager signs every single one on the back and puts his reputation on the line. Also, they lose sleep over the thought of having unhappy costumers. He said this in an email i got back...
"First of all I want you to know that we want our customers happy, and if you are not happy with your guitar we want it back. Our integrity means everything to us and if I have even one customer out there who I think is unhappy with their new guitar I don???t sleep well at night. "
Overall Rating
:
10
I am an electric guitar player for the most part, but I have been asked to do some acoustic work recently, so I decided to invest in an acoustic guitar that sounded good but was pretty cheap.
My current guitar setup is:
a Gibson Les Paul Standard Premium Plus -> Dunlop Cry Baby -> Xotic Rc Booster -> Visual Sound Route 66 -> Cusack Screamer Fuzz -> Input of Carvin Belair -> Send of Carvin Belair -> Ernie Ball Volume Jr. (connected to Boss TU-2 from tuner output to reduce tone loss because tuners suck a lot of tone) -> Boss DD-5 (connected to a Boss FS-5U from the tempo input for tap tempo) -> Return of Carvin Belair.
I love everything about this guitar, but when I got it, I didn't know what to think of the sound.. then I went to Sam Ash to test it out with others. The highest quality Martin they had was a $2700 HD-15 and it sounded dull compared to the Zager, same thing with a $2900 Taylor, and it definitely has better playability than either one. I'm going to Guitar Center over the weekend to compare some $3000+ guitars with it. Again, if you compare it to anything in its price range, it will make the others sound like sticks with strings attached to them. If it were stolen or lost, I would buy another one on the spot, or try the Zad 80ce but definitely a Zager. But, the greatest thing about this guitar is that all of my descriptions would only truly match with a guitar that is at least $2500, yet you can get this guitar for under $650. It will be hard to find anything of this caliber both tone and playability wise under $2000.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 09/11/2007
at 11:29pm
by tom
Features
:
10
This is a ZAD 50 CE dreadnaught with on board tuner, equalizer, Mahogany back and sides. solid spruce top.
Sound
:
10
Pros The sound is great, bright seems to put life in the chords and notes. The harmonics is perfect on this guitar.
Cons NONE
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
No Opinion
The action is the best I have ever seen or played. I have never played a guitar that is so easy to play.
The fit looks as though it is hand made.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I am sure that it will with stand any type of playing. the finish is great. the hardware solid.
Customer Support
:
10
THE WARRANTY IS FOR LIFE. DENNY and DENNIS ZAGER HAVE CARVED IT IN STONE. It doesn't get any better than that.
Overall Rating
:
10
This guitar is by far the best guitar I have ever played, This includes my Gibson Hummingbird, or my Fender Stratocaster. I have played Martins, Epiphones, Washburns, Gretch. I would pick a Zager guitar over any other brand.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 565
Submitted 09/11/2007
at 06:45pm
by Michael R. Schroer
Email: schroermr<at>cox dot net
Features
:
10
I did considerable research on buying a guitar. I'm a beginner and I was looking for a guitar that is easy to play and is manufactured with quality. Upon receipt of my Zaeger, I found the finish to be flawless. The wood used in the manufacture of my guitar is beautiful and it also included a hard case with a humidifier!
Sound
:
10
Like I said, I'm a beginner that has only been playing for about 4 months in-between school at night and work during the day. My guitar has a rich sound that is great. I had my music instructor look at and play my Zager and he even commented on how great the guitar was, and couldn't believe the price; nor the "no questions asked" return policy and lifetime warranty. Try getting that from other major manufacturers?
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
My Zager came completely set up right out of the box. I could find no flaws with anything on the guitar. This attests to the quality and care used in the construction and set-up of the guitar; as well as the care in packing and shipping the guitar. I'm completely happy.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I don't know about withstanding live playing, because it will be a long time to get to that level; however, I think my Zager will last as long as I can play it!
Customer Support
:
10
I haven't found it necessary to have any repairs made; however, I converse with Mr. Zager's corporation via emails and alway, I repeat always get a quick and helpful response. When I was looking for a guitar, I chatted with Mr. Zager personally several times via email about what I wanted to do with a guitar, my skill level, and finances. At no time did he pressure me to purchase his product, and I believe that he would have been happy if I hadn't purchase one of his guitars, because it's about playing and making the customer happy.
Overall Rating
:
10
Like I said, I'm a beginner only playing for a few months. I'm 49 and have never had any musical experience; but I love playing my Zager. I also have a Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash, a First Act electric (yeah, it came with the VW). I can find no faults with the Zager at all and I'm impressed by workmanship and quality. I chose the Zager because of the ease of which it plays. I'm completely happy withthis product and would purchase another one if I were to ever need another guitar.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 08/22/2007
at 12:11pm
by Bob
Features
:
9
has a nice fishman pickup vary will made looks just like a Martin.
Sound
:
10
Sound is Befutiful real value.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
Looks Great easy on fingers the way Denny Zager has it set up.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
Just got it last night, it has alife time warranty, and they treated me more than fairly.
Customer Support
:
10
Dennis Zager is the best he whent out of his way to make shure that i was happy, even though I made a mastike and ordered the wrong guitar he made it right.
Overall Rating
:
10
Just started playing will be taking the Zager Music lessons on line.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 500
Submitted 08/14/2007
at 03:57pm
by jim.leach@sbcglobal.net
Features
:
9
- 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
Sound
:
9
How does it suit your music style
ACOUSTIC
Is it noisy? no fret buzz at all
Rich Full Bright sound
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
9
How well was the guitar set-up at the factory? excellent
Properly bookmatched top? yes
Did the guitar contain any flaws? yes there are small spots on each side of the nut where the finish is chipped and the binding was still kinda rough on the bottom front
Reliability/Durability
:
9
Will this guitar withstand live playing? YES
Does the hardware seem like it will last? YES
Is the finish good enough to last, or does it seem thin and easy to wear off with lots of playing? NOT SURE
Are the strap buttons solid? ONLY 1 STRAP BUTTON
Can you depend on it? YES
Would you use it on a gig without a backup? YES
Customer Support
:
9
Customer Support
Ever try and get it repaired? NO
How long is the warranty?...LIFETIME
If you've dealt with the company, how helpful/friendly were they? AWSOME DENNY JR. IS A NICE GUY ON THE BALL AND VERY PROFESSIONAL
Overall Rating
:
No Opinion
How long have you been playing? 30 + YEARS
What other gear do you own? FENDER,MESA BOOGIE,MARSHALL,GIBSON,ATLAS,SUZUKI
Is there something you wish you had asked before buying this guitar? NO
If it were stolen or lost, would you buy it again YES
What do you love about it? EVERYTHING!IT IS LIKE HAVING A MAGIC WAND IT PLAYS LIKE BUTTER AND YOU CAN WRITE AWSOME SONGS AND IT IS REALLY NICE TO PLAY
Did you compare it to other guitars? NO
Why did you choose this one? BECAUSE I LIKE THE ATTENTION TO DETAIL IT IS HARD TO FIND GOOD QUALITY NOW DAYS! AND OF COURSE THE PRICE IS UNBEATABLE..
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 500
Submitted 08/13/2007
at 12:55pm
by jim leach
Features
:
9
all the features you will need to get the job done right
Sound
:
10
bright full sound. this is the best acoustic guitar I have ever played.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
perfect set up still smells like glue...
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I will be playing this guitar everyday for at least 30 more years
Customer Support
:
10
awsome family owned business with excellent comunication skills!
Overall Rating
:
10
Overall Rating 10+++
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 08/08/2007
at 12:34pm
by Natalie Lewis
Features
:
10
My guitar is beautiful! Fun to play and easy to tune. I've started about one year ago when my grandad gave me one like his. I'm getting better every week.
Sound
:
10
Sounds better than my friends Martin guitar. Like the deep sound and ability to chord as a beginner.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
Everything matched and works easy to tune with the string adjustments and built in tuner.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I have taken good care of it, and it looks like new. It holds its tuning for a long time after the first adjustments with new strings
Customer Support
:
10
It has a warranty, but don't know anything about it. I really like their reply when I send them a teaching question.
Overall Rating
:
No Opinion
one year of playing. I just love it and would not buy any other kind
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 08/08/2007
at 11:18am
by Robert W. Alexander
Email: rwa<at>blackmoon dot com
Features
:
10
I have a black transparent dreadnought with Grover tuners, raised frets, and hardside case by Zager. It is equipped with built in tuner and pickup system/equalizer.
Sound
:
10
Sound quality is excellent, with tone that competitive with top end Guild and Martin guitars I have used. Tone is rich, deep, and flexible. Absolutely one of the easiest guitars I have ever picked up.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
Prompt delivery and condition was perfect. All joints tight, tuners solid, and finish flawless.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
The guitar is great for group sessions, and with the pickup can easily compete for sound quality with anything it comes up against. I've used it for the past 3 years, and it is very stable in various temps/humidity condtions and shows no flaws in any area.
Customer Support
:
10
Lifetime warranty, never had to test it to date. I have submitted questions regarding their included video teaching programming and found them to be extraordinarily cooperative and helpful. Seems like they really like to be in the business and show it with service and response times.
Overall Rating
:
10
I have played since my teens (too long ago to count). I absolutely believe this is an ideal product, which I would replace with another one should it be lost/stolen. Loved it so much, I have since purchased two more exactly like it for my teenage granddaughters. They too love the guitar and its ease of compression on the frets for smaller fingers. The onboard tuner feature makes their use markedly easier, and therefore gets much more playing time that otherwise. I very much support this guitar and its quality of workmanship and tone.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 595
Submitted 07/24/2007
at 09:08pm
by Bill Jennings
Features
:
10
After searching all of my local guitar stores, I was surprised to find just what I was looking for online. This guitar has features that I had not seen before in a full size dreadnought cutaway. It has everything that you would expect from an excellently designed machine, like Solid Spruce top, Rosewood fretboard and bridge, Sealed Grover tuning gears, Mahogany back and sides with Abalone inlay rosette and a clear gloss finish. It also has an onboard electronic tuner that works like it was designed by a guitar player, as well as equalizer and transducer. What really sets this apart is the EZ-Play set-up that gives it the best action that I have ever played. It also came with extra Martin strings a neck adjustment tool and some cool promo stuff and a 100percent money back guarantee. It also has compleate online video support.
Sound
:
10
My playing style is with Full Major Chords and flatpicking each string or full stroke dampning. The sound that I can now get with my A, F, E , Dm and others that used to end up killing my fingers is now gone, and I mean gone! The way that this guitar stays in tune and the resonation is amazing. It sounds even better than it did on the web demonstration by master luthier, Denny Zager. I have been using Martin strings for years, but not the ones that came on this guitar. I have now re-strung all of my guitars with the same, and they all sound better, but not as good is my Zager.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
9
The set-up is perfect (I have never heard even one buzz) from action so low that it's hard to belive. It did arrive with the Tortoise shell pick guard not totally bonded along the bottom edge (an easy fix), but I couldn't bear to send it back and be without it, even for a few days, so I fixed it myself.
Reliability/Durability
:
9
I live in California and leave my guitars outside of the case on stands next to my couch for easy grab and play. When I got the guitar the weather was cold and wet outside, now it is hot and dry. I am lucky enough that inside my home stays very even temped, and my othe guitars have shown no signs of cracking or warping, and I trust that this one will do the same. The price was very good, but this is not a cheap guitar. I was not surprised to find a top strap button missing because of the reviews that I had read before purchase, but again, an easy fix. This has become my main playing guitar, and when I go to play, it goes with me.
Customer Support
:
10
Absolutly the best customer service since Polaroid. When I e-mailed a question late in the day, it was answered within the hour. This guitar also comes with a lifetime warranty and with the web support that came with the guitar (like how to care for and even re-string) was an added bonus. When I ordered the guitar by phone it was like talking to a new friend.
Overall Rating
:
10
I would have never recomended buying a guitar sight unseen, until I did it myself with this guitar. I have been playing since the late 60's and have had standing ovations after performing my own tunes. I own analog and digital recording gear as well as 6 other guitars, a banjo and alot of music stuff that I've collected over the years. I can honestly say that if my house was on fire, I would grab my Zager first over my beloved Gibson, Ovation and even my Simon Patric 12 string. I have never written a review before, but I would like to share my good words for anyone that would love a beautiful sounding and looking guitar but can't afford to spend thousands of dollars, to check-out the Zager Guitar website. I bought mine on sale!
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 595.00
Submitted 07/24/2007
at 03:28pm
by Carl Hibma
Features
:
8
I purchased A ZAD-50 dreadnought cut away in black from Dennis Zager on 7-17-07.
The guitar came in three days from ordering and I have played it continully since. It is a beautiful guitar with turquoise around the sound hole. It is African mahohany back and sides with a solid spruce top.
It has an active Fishman pickup with a built in tuner. And uses Grover tuners.
The guitar is light weight compared to my Guild and my Fender acoustics.
Sound
:
10
The guitar plays really well, fingering is a breeze a little better than my Guild CO-1C
and my Fender DG-31, the sound is bright and crisp and clear.
It fits really well with my finder picking style as well as when I strum with my light pick on fast songs,
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
The action came from Zager low and easy to play compared to my Guild that I had to take in and have the nut filed down to lower the strings.
The built in tuner is fast and easy to use. I cannot find anything out of order with this guitar.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
The finish seems to be as good as my fender DG-31 finish and I/ve had that guitar for seven years and it is fine.
The strap buttons are solid and the ;hardware is strong, I willnot hesitate to use this guitar at live gigs and plan on using it this week.
Customer Support
:
10
So far Dennis Zager Jr. has answered my e-mails and even caught and corrected an ordering error before I could tell them about it. This guitar has a life time warranty and if I hadn't been happy with it I could have returned it for a full refund no questions asked. And they would have paid for shipping!
Overall Rating
:
10
I have a Guild CO-1C and a Fender DG-31. I have had other guitars, an Egmond and an Ibanez maple acoustic and this guitar is as good as any of them in sound and in quality consruction.
I have been playing guitar for 35 years and have been look for a guitar company like Zager guitar for a long time.
I chose this guitar because I wanted that kind of sound that it has which I heard on the web site video and I like black.
I would like to trade my Guild Guitar for two more Zager guitars I want the ZAD-80 CE and I would love to have a ZAD custom Koa if they ever would make one.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 410.00
Submitted 07/21/2007
at 05:42pm
by Paul B. Searles
Email: pbsearles at verizon<dot>net
Features
:
10
I just recently (about a month & a half ago) purchased a Zager
ZAD-50CE Acoustic/Electric guitar, from Zager guitars in the good ol' USA! It is a beautifully crafted cutaway style box with a solid spruce top & what looks like high-quality mahogany back, sides & neck, with very a smoothly finish-sanded rosewood fretboard. I purchased the smaller body (than my Martin D28) for more personal comfort. The mother of pearl style inlay is quite elegant. It has a full 20-fret easily playable neck, with frets that don't create havoc for the fingertips -- a great feature for those beginning guitar!
My ZAD-50CE has a built in tuner, making the task of bringing it to pitch a breeze -- I've often dropped electronic tuners, having to reassemble them before using them. I've even lost one or two. The built-in tuner also makes it impossible to "forget" unless you forgat the guitar :) It has a built-in pick-up with a 3-band equalizer (tone controls) and volume control. All these features use (including the tuner) a single 9-volt battery. There is a small red LED (Light Emitting Diode) to indicate when the battery is low & needs to be changed. Changing it is easier than changing a light bulb!
Sound
:
10
Don't get me wrong; the Martin is a great sounding flat top, but I must admit, the Zager is so close it is difficult to discern the difference in sound. My Martin is physically larger so the lower tones seem to have more "presence," but otherwise, the sound quality is quite evenly matched... and the Martin's may be exceeded a bit at the mid-upper range. The lower tones are full-bodied & rich, while the mis & uppers are pleasingly bright -- all of them exhibiting full clarity, whether through an amplifier or 'open air.'
For me, there is nothing that I don't like about it!
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
The playability (sp?) is incredible, to say the least, as I thought my 1979 D28 (Martin) played very easily. The Zager is at least a couple orders of magnitude easier -- and I'm being quite conservative in my estimate. It requires far less pressure to fret for a clean sound than does my Martin.
I purposely purchased one that ended up with a slightly flawed sanding (below the finish), and it was clearly advertised as such. There are several available with minor flaws at discounted prices, but I would have still been very satisfied had I paid 3 times the amount I paid!
Reliability/Durability
:
10
Very durable; well-built. High gloss durable finish. Strap button is quite solid. It has great quality sealed Grover tuners -- very easy to use! It can easily stand alone or accompany other instruments as lead or backup!
Customer Support
:
10
The warranty is a lifetime one, in writing. They were quite friendly, helpful & from a 30-year Coast Guard vet, above & beyond the call of duty! In fact, when they did not have the particular guitar I had chosen, available, they offered me a more costly one (with close to the same features), AAAND... they threw in a hard shell case (Martin) that was NOT originally included ALL for the same price (without even increasing the flat shipping rate). The value is easily TRIPLE that of what I paid!
Overall Rating
:
10
Granted, I may be a novice to some: but I've played guitar, banjo, autoharp, mandolin, mandola and a bit of fiddle since starting in the early 1980's, and I know good sound. But it does not take much experience to compare the playing ease of the Zager against others. Looking back, had I owned a Zager when starting, it would have allowed me to enjoy learning to play the guitar much more. And practicing would not have seemed so arduous. Doc Watson is one of my favorite artists, and I'm quite partial to his styles of music & playing -- the Zager excells in the presentation of these kinds of playing & sounds, whether simple folk, jazz or bluegrass. I use it to play the older traditional hymns in the retirement homes & the sound is more than sufficient for such a venue. They enjoy it very much. Price stated below included shipping.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 450
Submitted 07/20/2007
at 12:40pm
by John
Email: jcamp5478<at>aol dot com
Features
:
9
I ordered the guitar, got it within a couple of days. And, it arrived IN TUNE!
Not sure where made - I'll guess in Nebraska where they're located, but, it plays exactly like they said it would so it didn't matter to me.
Go to their website if you want to see what I got and the frets and the electronics, etc...
This area is looking for features, etc....and I'm not really the guy to answer that question.
It has 3 slides for Eq/balance/etc...and tuner....and that's really all I needed it for to do open mic nights.
Sound
:
9
I'm a folk guy and have played some outdoors by the water and, it sounds real good.
I
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
Action - as advertised - LOW. Easy to play.
Bar Chords are easy.
Finish - fine - not something I'm really taking note of but it's all black and it looked great when I got it.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I havent noticed any heavy wear and tear and I play just about every day.
I got the guitar in like March of 2006 and sounds great and stays in tune.
I don't have a backup in general and don't play like a pro- musician; so i cant say. i do know that it sounds good when it's plugged in. I got it for open mic nights....it's all black...I need to learn Johnny Cash songs now.
Strap buttons are solid....they only install the strap button at the bottom of the guitar and it acts as the plug in for your cable.
Customer Support
:
10
The company is small and I have NEVER ended up in a situation where they didn't respond within 24 hours.
If they don't respond within 4 hours that's a surprise.
They're communication is excellent. Before you buy and after you buy.
And htey are nice ppl.
Overall Rating
:
10
For what I paid and what it does and when I played other guitars in Guitar Center....I got a high end value buying the zager.
I'd do it again.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 06/30/2007
at 11:36pm
by Bryan Reed
Features
:
10
This isn't a guitar with a ton of features but what the guitar has is what I wanted and I like it very much. I've attached a list from the manufacturers website.
- EZ-Play Modified
- Full size Dreadnought
- Venetian Cutaway Design
- Solid Spruce Top
- Mahogany Back & Sides
- Rosewood Bridge
- Rosewood Fret-Board
- Gloss Finish
- Built in Transducer
- Onboard Equalizer
- Onboard Electronic Tuner
- 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
Sound
:
10
I played a lot of guitars (Martin, Taylor, etc.) before I ordered the Zager. I didn't get to hear the Zager except on the Internet but I was confident that I could send it back, with all shipping fees refunded if I didn't like it. The Zager didn't dissappoint. There is a WOW factor with the sound. The tone is so smooth, so deep, so rich, so bright, so balanced. I love it. It makes an ordinary chord sound inspired. I've done a sound comparison with my friend's Martins and it is hard to say which sounds better, and I got it for 1/2 of the cost of the least expensive Martin that I liked.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
The set up is great.
This is the easiest to play acoustic guitar that I've ever picked up in the 15 years I've been playing. It is similar to the easy action of an electric guitar. I can't do full bends as easily as on an electric but other than that it's just as easy.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I haven't had it more than a month, so this isn't a category I'm ready to comment on. The number rating reflects my hopes rather than my experience.
Customer Support
:
10
I've sent a few emails with questions that have been promptly,courteously, thoroughly answered. That plus their money back if unsatified with guitar and lifetime guarantee make me feel confident in my purchase.
Overall Rating
:
10
If it were stolen or lost, I would buy it again.
My guitar friends think I scored. I definitely do too. I've been playing it a lot and it keeps pulling me back to play more.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 05/27/2007
at 11:13am
by Jon
Features
:
9
Beautiful inlay,spruce top, mahogany black,easy to use built in electronics, quality fret board
Sound
:
9
Sound is big and clean. Sounds as good as or better then guitars costing 3x4 times as much.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
Beautiful black finish, looks great with all the accents,If there is a flaw in the finish, I still haven't found it.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
Had this guitar for approx 2 yrs and still holding up like new. Never failed me yet
Customer Support
:
10
Always answered email A.S.A.P both before and after I purchased there product. They seem to always be willing to help with any questions.
Overall Rating
:
10
Very happy with this guitar. Its easy playing. great sound. You certainly get your monies worth. If I had to, I would purchase from Zager again...
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 400
Submitted 05/22/2007
at 06:03pm
by WAYNE ADKINS
Features
:
9
SPRUCE TOP , MOHOGANY SIDES, FISHMAN ELECTRONICS ,BEAUTIFUL INLAY
AROUND SOUND HOLE . FROM THE HEARTLAND OF NEBRASKA , GROVER TUNERS,
MARTIN STRINGS, EASILY THE THE BEST INSTRUMENT , FEATURES-WISE I'VE
EVER OWNED,VERY FEW FRILLS ,ENTRY LEVEL, BUT OUT PERFORMS MOST INSTRUMENTS I'VE PLAYED UNDER A GRAND !!!
Sound
:
10
ACOUSTIC - ELECTRIC , SOUNDS AMAZING EITHER WAY YOU APPROACH IT !AS A
SINGER-SONGWRITER WITH NEARLY 400 ORIGINAL TUNES, THIS BAD BOY SINGS
WITH AN ARTICULATION AND CRARITY UNRIVALED. I PLAY VARIOUS FORM OF ROCK ,BLUES ,& FOLK , AND THIS INSTRUMENT MAJESTICALLY RISES TO ALL
OCCASSIONS.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
9
NEVER HAVE I HAD AN INSTRUMENT SET UP WITH SUCH ATTENTION TO DETAIL.
THE ACTION IS QUITE SUPERIOR AND THE FINISH IS JOHNNY CASH BLACK .
BECAUSE OF FINANCES AVAILABLE AT CHRISTMAS TIME, I SOUGHT OUT A DISCOUNTED MODEL WITH A COUPLE BLEMISHES, THESE AER MINISCULE IN CONTRAST TO THE HIGH QUALITY FEATURES , ACTION, OVER-ALL VALUE, &
BELL - LIKE QUALITY OF TONE THIS AMAZING INSTRUMENT DELIVERS !
Reliability/Durability
:
10
THIS INSTRUMENT HAS BEEN ROAD TESTED BY MYSELF IN OVER 50 OPEN - MICS
THROUGHOUT CINCINATI & NORTHERN KY.IT PLAYS WELL, HANDLES NICE,AND
ARTICULATES WITH THE BEST OF THEM, VERY DEPENDABLE , NO BACK - UP
NECESSARY .
S
Customer Support
:
10
EVERY QUESTION I'VE POSED HAS BEEN ADDRESSED PROMPTLY & EFFICIENTLY
BY THE CO. WARRANTED FOR LIFE, AS A TRUE QUALITY INSTRUMENT SHOULD BE,
MONEY BACK GARANTEE, IF YOU'RE NOT THRILLED, COME ON , IT DOESN'T GET
ANY BETTER THAN THAT !!
Overall Rating
:
10
GREATEST INVESTMENT I'VE EVER MADE IN MYSELF ! BEEN PLAYING SINCE 1972
AND IF I HAD THE MONEY, I'D BUY ANOTHER ONE. BEST TONE, PLAYABILITY,&
ARTICULATION I'VE EVER PLAYED.HECK WITH ONLY 2 BASIC MODELS YOU CAN'T
GO WRONG.!!!
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 05/14/2007
at 05:01pm
by Mark C Davis
Email: markcdavis<at>msn dot com
Features
:
10
Beautiful, flawless satin finish with built-in digital tuner. This guitar also comes with sealed Grover tuners, a rosewood fretboard, gorgeous inlay around the soundhole along with Denny Zager's famous "string science". The sunburst finish is stunning and the custom luthier work supplied by Mr. Zager rivals guitars costing thousands of dollars.
Sound
:
10
The guitar is bright with crisp tones and is very pleasing to play unplugged or plugged into your favorite amplifier. I currently am using a Roland MicroCube set to Acoustic with a little Delay for a very rich, earthy, auditorium sound effect. Overall, an excellent choice for any style of music... Currently, I use mine for folk and blues.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
Absolutely dead-on, perfect set-up by Dennis Zager utilizing his string science system. No other guitar (including my Martin) comes close to the set-up including the ultra-low action without string buzz and perfect intonation. Every detail of the guitar is absolutely flawless.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
Evereything about this guitar merits a "10" and could easily be gigged without the concern for a back-up. Despite whatever you may be currently playing, this will quickly become your favorite guitar.
Customer Support
:
10
Dennis Zager stands behind every guitar he sells 100% and Dennis Jr. offers quick, reliable answers to all inquiries. Customer service is the very best that I have ever dealt with for any product. They will absolutely go far beyond expectations to gain your trust and business.
Overall Rating
:
10
I favorably would compare this guitar to Taylors and Martins but it has much better playability. I would definitely purchase another Zager, probably the ZAD-80CE in the future.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 05/10/2007
at 09:15am
by Jim
Features
:
10
I bought the black 50CE, it is extraordinarily beautiful.
Sound
:
10
The Zager sound if for those who play warm sounding, beautiful pieces. If you want to bang on your guitar (and there is a role for that) then buy a Martin. I have a Martin HD-35 and my Zager. There are times when I prefer my Zager and times when I prefer my Martin, depending mainly on how hard I want to play. I would say the Zager is not inferior at all - just different
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
Reliability/Durability
:
10
Customer Support
:
10
This is why I HIGHLY recommend Zager guitars. He is totally honest and totally committed to delivering the perfect guitar for you. I am a physician and I know what it means to have a sense of calling in your career. It seems that he is more interested in delivering what you really want and need than he is in making a buck. I told him I wanted to return the ZAD 80 rosewood because I didn't like all the abalone and he was completely supportive of that. Then I ordered another one and cancelled it a day later. He wasn't at all annoyed (even if he had been, I would have understood). You can trust this guy, and that's what matters
Overall Rating
:
10
I have been playing off and on for 15 years, varying with the strictures of a demanding career. I wish I had gotten this guitar 15 years ago. I actually gave one to my nephew just knowing what a difference it would make for him. There is no better guitar for someone starting out. That said, you never outgrow this guitar. The sound in some ways is the most beautiful I have ever played, again, depending on your style. But if you decide it isn't your style he lets you return it.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 445
Submitted 05/08/2007
at 02:14pm
by Dave
Features
:
9
gloss finish
dreadnought/cutaway
grover tuners
thin neck,rosewood fretboard
made 2006,USA
solid spruce top
mahogany back and sides
Sound
:
9
It suits my music style just fine (rock,southern rock,and country).
I play it unplugged-very good sound,good highs mids and bass.
The mids and highs are bright.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
9
The guitar was well set-up.
The action is good,it could possibly be lower, but it plays well.
The guitar contained no flaws that I could see.
The strings being spaced just a little father apart is a big plus.
Reliability/Durability
:
No Opinion
I would say you could depend on this guitar although I did not buy it to perform with.
The hardware seems like it would last.
Customer Support
:
10
I've needed no repairs, but the guitar has a lifetime warranty, and any time I've talked with the Zager company, they were nothing but friendly and helpful.
Overall Rating
:
10
I've been playing for 35 years.
Other equipment I own: Seagul acoustic, Alvarez acoustic, Hohner acoustic, Kingston acoustic, Harmony acoustic, Fernandez electric.
If it was lost, I would buy another Zager.
I guess the main thing I liked about this guitar is the risk-free purchase, and the lifetime warranty.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 05/04/2007
at 05:43pm
by Clark-a--holic
Features
:
10
Zager EZ-Play Modified: Lowering the strings closer to the fret board, widening the stance of the strings, modifying the saddle, bridge, neck and nut--The result is a guitar that is 50% easier to play with a sound that rivals guitars costing 5 times the price.
Full Size Dreadnought
Venetian Cutaway Design
Solid Spruce Top
Mahogany Back & Sides
Rosewood bridge
Rosewood fret-board
Gloss Finish
Built in Transducer
Onboard Equalizer
Onboard Electronic Tuner
Scalloped X-bracing
Hand-Carved Custom Nut
Hand-Carved Custom Saddle
Hand filed frets
Hand filed frets
Sealed Grover Tuning Gears
Abalone Inlay Rosette
Tortoise Shell Pickguard
Genuine "Martin" Strings
100% money back guarantee
Lifetime warranty
Sound
:
10
I LOVE the EZ-Play Zager ZAD-50CE Acoustic Electric guitar. I LOVE the matching case. The latches on the case open and close freely. The humidity gauge is a nice attribute and it reads 79 degrees with 60% humidity--that is with my air conditioner set to 77 degrees in the apartment. Both the guitar and case are extremely light weight. I have a generic case for my Martin D16A, but is must be twice or three times as heavy as your Zager case.
I do not own an amplifier right now, so I cannot judge the sound from the built in transducer and onboard equalizer. However, I can attest that the onboard electronic tuner is fantastic, as well as the acoustics of the guitar, which rivals my 1989 Martin D16A!
I just spent the past 45 minutes messing around with the guitar and it is hard to put it down.
I am a huge Roy Clark fan, so I try to play some of his riffs that I
learned off many of Mr. Clark's 40+ LPs I own from his career in the 1960s through 1990s when he was recording on a regular basis.
"Yesterday when I was Young," "Alabama Jubilee," and "Under the Double Eagle" sound fantastic on the guitar. I also play bluegrass music, so the EZ-Play Zager ZAD-50CE Acoustic Electric clearly holds its own against my 1989 Martin D16A made of ash wood.
I better watch out, as I might end up owning one of each model that Denny Zager sells!
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
No Opinion
Factory set-up is incredible! The action is low, extremely easy playablility--just as the manufacturer presents the product to be.
Construction and finish are as advertised--superb!
Reliability/Durability
:
No Opinion
This guitar will withstand playing live in an unplugged environement and works magnificently with any amateur bluegrass jam session.
The hardware is identical to that used on my Martin D16A--Grover tuners are awesome and the instrument stays in tune.
One strap button is included--I am going to install a strap button their the neck.
Customer Support
:
No Opinion
As a former corporate banking business support employee, I know customer service relations is as important as the product you sell. So I sincerely wish to thank Dennis Zager, Jr. so much for the recent excellent customer service correspondences and personal support provided to me.
Overall Rating
:
No Opinion
I am playing guitar since 1987, banjo since 1999, and mandolin since 2006. I own a 1989 Martin D16A guitar, 1999 Deering Calico and 2006 Deering Golden Era banjos.
The newest addition to my instrument collection is the EZ-Play Zager ZAD-50CE Acoustic Electric. I love this instrument so much that I just placed an order for another Zager model guitar, the EZ-Play Zager ZAD-50 OM Acoustic guitar. I expect to receive this instrument within the 5-7 days and I will be posting a review on this model soon.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 05/02/2007
at 01:44pm
by David
Features
:
10
The finish on my guitar is a glossed black finish- VERY nicely done. It is an acoustic electric.
Sealed Grover Tuners
Custom Thin Neck
Fishman pickup
Extra strings and picks
Solid spruce top
Graphic equalizer
Volume controls plus built in LED tuner
Rosewood bridge
Mahogany back and sides
Sound
:
10
The guitar is perfect for my needs. The EZ play design makes it fit m hands a bit better- I have thicker than average fingers.
I have no tused it as an electric yet.
The sound is very rich- it's bright, with a pleasant resonance, with no unnatural ring.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
The guitar arrived with the strings close to being tuned already. It was ready to play almost immediately. Alignment, and fit, were right on the money. At this point (4 weeks in) I've discovered no flaws.
Reliability/Durability
:
9
My only concern, and it is minor, is that the tuners do not quite seem as tight as I would expect, but it has held tuning well. The hardware feels tight and strong, and the finish is very well done. Because there is no front button for the strap, I cannot rate that feature. I do feel I could depend on it in any situation.
Customer Support
:
10
I have had VERY fast replies when I contacted the company, and a great willingness to discuss the guitar or to obtain information.
Overall Rating
:
10
I learned to play when I was a boy, in the mid-1960s. I still have my old Fender guitar and bass (vintage 1968 and 1972) and a 1967 Fender Bassman (in need of repair.)
I have absolutely NO regrets about my choice. I researched for weeks before buying this guitar, and was pleased at what I received. If I were to have to replace it, I would buy another in a flash- this ia a beautiful guitar, even more so when you consider the price. I saw more expensive guitars in stores locally that were inferior to this.
It is pretty much designed as I wanted it. I'd planned on the acoustic only ZAD50, but they had a "back of the storeroom" unit for a deep discount, so I was able to get the 50CE, in perfect shape, for a deep discount because it was a year or so old. If there is anything about it that is less than perfect, I haven't found it (in reference to the discount status.)
I am VERY pleased with the value and quality.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 04/10/2007
at 05:23pm
by Ken Tucker
Features
:
10
Has black glossy finish.I inspected closely and cannot find a flaw.
body is full size cutaway w/ hand fitted saddle and nut. action is low EZ play and I'm loving it. Top is solid spruce. Also has equalizer and electronic tuner.
Too many features to list. You should go to their web site to get full info.
Sound
:
10
Sound is great.Resonates rich and mellow. I also have a Gibson LP studio model and the Zager sounds every bit as good.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
Have only had this guitar for a few days but it seems perfect.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
Don't know yet but looks to very well built and a good value for the price.
Customer Support
:
10
Have not needed service but my e-mail questions are all answered within hours. (sometimes minutes)
Overall Rating
:
10
I've only been playing a few months.My other guitar is a Gibson LP and I love both of them. Hardly know which to play first. I would definately buy another Zager again (and might soon if my wife would let me have a smaller model for travel).
I have never met Denny Zager but if you listen to him and watch him work with his students and talk about his products on his videos you cannot help but be impressed with his dedication and desire to put out quality.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 645
Submitted 04/06/2007
at 05:38pm
by Dale Moe
Features
:
10
Sunburst cutaway with electronics
Sealed Grover Tuners
Custom Thin Neck
Hard case, extra strings and picks
Built 02-07
Solid spruce top
Graffic equalizer and volume controls plus built in LED tuner
Fishman pickup
Rosewood bridge and neck with mahogany back and sides
Sound
:
10
I play mostly country and gospel music and the Zager's bright tone works well with it. When I plug it into my Peavy TransTube Amp I can adjust the tone with equalizer to the type of music I am playing..very cool feature. This guitar produces a full bright sound when unplugged and can be adjusted to many tones when plugged in. Very nice sound....much like my Takamine.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
Out of the box this guitar is fantastic. Very little tuning needed and the action was perfect. The fit and finish were flawless as was the bookmatched top. I tried out many guitars at local dealers in the past week and none of them were set up or finished better than the Zager....in fact most were inferior.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I have six guitars....but I will play the Zager at this weekend's gig. It appears to be well made and solid. Plus....it has a LIFETIME warranty.
Customer Support
:
10
I have not had any warranty issues with the company, but I have had some questions. I emailed Denny Zager Jr. and he responded within the hour on all questions. Very friendly and helpful folks.
Overall Rating
:
10
I have played guitar for 35 years and have owned several brands. I currently own a Takamine, Epiphone, Fender and Yamaha which range from acoustic to electric.
I would buy this guitar again as it has all the features I was looking for. My Takamine is getting road weary so I looked at replacing it with another...but was unimpressed with the new ones. I liked the higher end Martins over the rest, but disliked the price. I am glad I took the "risk" of ordering a Zager without trying it. I would highly recommend this guitar as it plays like a much more expensive Martin.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: USD 595
Submitted 04/05/2007
at 11:02am
by Cliff
Features
:
10
EZ-Play Modified by Denny Zager, Full size Dreadnought with Venetian Cutaway Design. Solid Spruce Top with Mahogany Back & Sides. Rosewood Bridge and Rosewood Fret-Board. Transparent Gloss Finish. Built in Transducer, Onboard Equalizer, and Onboard Electronic Tuner. Scalloped X-bracing. Hand carved custom nut and hand carved custom saddle. Hand filed frets (as part of EZ Play setup. Sealed Grover Tuning Gears. Abalone inlay rosette. Tortoise shell pick guard. Genuine "Martin" Strings. Includes Zager Guitar 100% money back guarantee and lifetime warranty.
Sound
:
9
The sound of this guitar is quite amazing for a guitar in this price range. I have owned and played many accoustic guitars over my 30 years of playing, and this one compares to models six or seven times the price. The sound is full and bright and it is comparable to the more expensive brands on the market.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
The action is the biggest selling point on this guitar. The EZ-Play modifications really make the action on the guitar feel tremendous. I typically play a fender strat with really low action, and switching over to the Zager to play the accoustic/electric cause me no discomfort whatsover. It is very easy to play, and I think the modifications are quite innovative. I assume given enough time and experience a luthier could set up ANY guitar like this, but Denny has it down to a science, and the results on his guitars prove it. Fit and finish on the guitar when it arrived were impeccable.
Reliability/Durability
:
9
Live playing will not be a problem. The guitar is extremely well built and the finish seems very durable. The bottom strap/jack is very solid. There is no top strap button when the guitar arrives, but a qualified technician can add one to Zager's specs and should also be solid. All in all a very dependable guitar.
Customer Support
:
10
Zager Guitar is a family business and it shows. The are not a faceless corporation. They care about their customers. Can't beat the Lifetime Warranty and 100 percent Money Back Guarantee!
If you don't like the guitar, they will pick it up and take it back and refund every penny of your guitar including shipping BOTH ways! There is zero risk associated with this purchase! Better still, the guitar is warranteed for life should anything happen.
Their customer service is extremely responsive on both the phone and e-mail, often responding within minutes of an e-mail. While I haven't had any problems since my purchase, all my questions were answered promptly and personally.
Overall Rating
:
10
I've been playing for over 30 years, I own several guitars from Fenders, to Ricks, Takamine, Gibsons, etc. If the guitar was stolen I would definitely get another. This guitar is ten times easier to play than my high end Takamine accoustic electric. You have nothing to lose with the money-back guarantee... so it's definitely a great purchase.
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 04/02/2007
at 12:13am
by David Arpin
Features
:
10
- Sunburst with Gloss Finish
- Full Size Dreadnought
- Venetian cutaway with scalloped X-bracing
- Rosewood Bridge/Neck/Fretboard
- Hand filed (small) frets
- Solid Spruce Top
- Sealed Grover Tuning Gears
- Mahogany Back & Sides
- Hand carved custom nut & saddle
- Abalone inlay rosette
- Tortoise shell pick guard, not fancy, but more than adequate
- Built in transducer under bridge
- Quality onbord electronc tuner, w/volume knob & equalizer
- Genuine "Martin" Strings, plus an extra set
Sound
:
10
I've owned/played a number of acoustic guitars over the last 35 years, including an Alvarez DY 56 acoustic with stereo pickups that was gorgeous, but too cumbersome to adjust on stage. The East Coast Casuals band I play with shares a Takamine EG531SSC acoustic at our gigs; its definately a workhorse. The Tak plays well and sounds great amplified, but doesn't sound as well when practicing unplugged. So I've been looking around for a while. I decided to invest in a Zager guitar (ZAD-50CE) because it compares favorably with high-priced acoustic-electrics.
I've owned the ZAD-50CE now for over a little over a month now and this guitar is everything Zager said it would be!
To reduce an acoustic feedback problem I(as with with any acoustic), I've ordered a 'cocobolo wood' sculptured soundhole damper from the Lute Hole Co. (Thanks Danny Zager Jr., I didn't know these dampers existed! Then again I didn't know Zager Guitars existed two months ago either!) Unlike the solid rubber plug we use to dampen the Takamini, the classy looking Lute Hole units come in three levels of damping, and one model provides variable damping. All are a bit pricy, but I'll pay the money if it saves the fullness and clarity of tone.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
- Action is fast, especially with the Martin light strings.
- "EZ-Play" Modified so it was flawless right out of the box.
- I got an even better deal by buying a discounted guitar with two minor finish cracks around the battery compartment and a blemished guitar case; I could not determine where the blemish was??
Reliability/Durability
:
10
Only time will tell if the guitar will stand up, but since Zager Guitar has been around since 1969, Zager uses the same manufacturer as Martin Guitars and have a lifetime warantee, its a good bet these guitars will stand up over time. The guitar has been reliable for the last month and I would not expect it to develop a problem we could not overcome. We always have a backup.
Customer Support
:
10
- Tracking number allowed monitoring of delivery
- Zager will pay for return shipping if unsatisfied with guitar
- Lifetime warranty
- Responded to two emails on seperate weekends within 24 hours
- Provided valuable link to soundhole damping (Lute Hole Co.)
- Web site video instructions are a tremendous asset to users
- I had to install the neck-side strap button, but the location to install it was covered in one of Mr. Zager's instructional videos. Good thing he covered it, the balance point was not obvious.
Overall Rating
:
10
I didn't want to spent a great deal of money on an accoustic-electric because the guitar is going to get a lot of use and accidents, even theft, could occur and I would regret damaging/losing a high-priced guitar. The ZAD is a worthy instrument. It has gorgeous looks, is extremely easy to play, and has all the full, clear tone I'm looking for. I purchased it because there was no risk, as Zager would take it back and pay for shipping both ways if I didn't like it.
OK, the ZAD-50CE is not a Martin or Taylor guitar, but I'm here to say it sounds and plays as good as any I've tried at the music stores.
Dave Arpin
ECC Band
Sprague, CT
Product: Zager ZAD-50CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 03/31/2007
at 05:13pm
by D Treckler
Features
:
No Opinion
The ZAD50CE is a solid spruce top, mahgany back and sides acoustic electric.
The doby is fully bound with the ivoroid bindings as is the neck and heel plate. The fingerboard is rosewood as is the bridge. Dreadnaught size with the venetian cutaway. Tuners are non locking, but are a fully enclosed grover type which have excellent accuracy.
The neck is mahogany with a nice c shape very similar to the old Fender style necks of the 60's and 70's. They are wider and a real nice, comfortable grip. This allows for extended play without tiring your hand.
Sound
:
No Opinion
The sound with mahogany back and sides will project the mids and highs, but does not forget the lows.They are criso annd clean. It's a balanced sound with not too much of one over the other as you will find is some other guitars costing a lot more. The electronics bring the guitar to wherever you want it to be with the 3-band EQ. There is a presence sliding control which I equate to an oral exciter for vocals. It will add to the EQ'd sound by giving it more clarity than it already has, which is pretty sizable. You can play and get a nice mellow sound when fingerpicking but not loose the sustain or richness. When flatpicking, the real nature of the guitar comes out and produces a sound that a lot of us look for in units costing 3 to 5 times more.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
No Opinion
The setup of the guitar was very similar to how I set up my electrics and better acoustics. The action was pleasantly low without buzz, and at the 12th fret, the action was still very low.
The intonation was perfect and the neck was straight with very liitle(I mean insignificant relief) I love my guitars to have a straight neck. Some folks think that some relief is very mportant, but my feeling is that if you take care of the nut and saddle properly, relief is a secondary issue.
Everything on the guitar has an excellent finish and no gaps anywhere. No Flaws.
You can go out and gig with it or use it in the studio. You will be proud to be seen with it. The appearance is totally professional.
Reliability/Durability
:
No Opinion
The finish is equal to my $3- 4,000 units and I feel it will last a long time. The hardware is solid as is everythig else.
I would use this as my first AE at a job.
Customer Support
:
No Opinion
The company went over and above what they could have. The example I submit is that I have around 10 -15 high line acoustics. On one of most expensive ones, the ivoroid neck heel cover was cracked when I opened it. I immediately called the mfg. and was told to take it to a luthier or repair with no guarantee of reimbursement.
With Zager, I ordered the unit w/o a case as I have some extra hardshell dreadnaught cases. The unit was to be sent with a gig bag -
they emailed and said they would ship it in a hard molded case for no extra charge since they ran out of gig bags! They did what they said. There aren't too many companies that do that anymore. They also have a money back guarantee. You can't beat that!
Overall Rating
:
No Opinion
I have been playing now for over 35 years and have owned and played Gibson, Guild, Martin, Larivee, Yiari, Takamine pro line, and some others I can't remember. This guitar will hold it's own with these I just mentioned, and blow away a lot of the others. Tonally, aesthetically, playability, you name it, it's there. I will be purchasing another and my friends will too.
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