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Zager ZAD-80CE

Summary
Manufacturer URL http://www.zagerguitar.com/
Features 9.8 (13 responses)
Sound 9.8 (12 responses)
Action, Fit, & Finish 9.9 (12 responses)
Reliability/Durability 9.8 (12 responses)
Customer Support 9.8 (12 responses)
Overall Rating 9.9 (12 responses)
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Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 12/23/2008 at 05:00pm by studio-player

Features : 9
You can scroll down to read all the features, no need to repeat.
Mine is a 2006 model. I picked it up from a private party. Still had plastic on the pick guard.
Absolutely first rate finish!
On board tuner is very handy for quickly changing to alternate tunings.

Sound : 10
Sound : 10
I'm primarily a strummer, fast tempo with a lot of power. Do some
fingerpicking.
Bottom end is pronounced, not boomy.
Upper end is bright, without being tinny.
There is nothing I dislike about this guitar.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
There are no flaws.
Fit and finish are first rate.
Set up is perfect, no extra effort required.
Inside is "clean" as expected, no overglue or anything.
Finish is even, not thick in some areas, thin in others.

Reliability/Durability : 8
I play in studio only, so I can't make a qualified remark about "live"
durability.
However, just the other day I accidentally "smacked" the guitar on a heavy duty music stand. I was really ticked off, cause I expected to find a ding. Oh, happy day, no ding.
There is no visible wear after two years of play.

Customer Support : 8
Have had no need for customer support.
Have had random communication with Zager Guitar. They are friendly and
easy to communicate with, and respond quickly.
I'm second owner of this guitar, and I'm treated like I was the original buyer.

Overall Rating : 10
I've been playing for about 15 years, primarily acoustic. I currently own over a dozen guitars. I have owned and played a wide variety of
guitars...all the "regular names"...Taylor, Breedlove, Martin, Takamine,etc.

The fit and finish on my Zager is among the best I have ever seen on any guitar I've owned.
The sound is right up there at the top of the pack. I have five acoustics hanging in my studio, at hand, depending on what kind of sound I need. My workhorse is a Takamine AN-10...until now. I find myself reaching for the Zager more and more. I don't want to sound cliche, but it really is easy to play.
Sometimes I put in several sessions per day, and I need a guitar that
works with me. The Zager is effortless to play.
Some might say that my other guitars have set up issues. I would take
exception with that. While I won't call myself a luthier, because I
haven't been to a formal school or served as an apprentice, I'm very
familiar with set up and adjustment. I routinely do my own fret
maintenance, nut and saddle adjustment/replacement, and have even done
neck resets.
If it were lost/stolen/damaged, I would be disappointed and would seek out another.
Wish I had come across Zager Guitars sooner.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 10/01/2008 at 03:15pm by thebrekster
Email: thebrekster<at>yahoo dot com

Features : 10
This is a 2008 ZAD 80CE, an acoustic/electric dreadnought with a solid cedar top and rosewood sides and back. The electronics are by fishman and include a built in turner. the Rosewood fretboard contains 20 frets, that are extremely well finished. The neck is fast and the strings are set low and slightly wider apart, with no "fret buzz", very easy on the fingers to play as Denny Zager advertises. It has sealed gold Grover tuners and abalone trim around the body and sound hold, very classy. It came with a case, extra strings, picks, allen wrench and a temp/humidity gauge. The finish is transparent, glossy and flawless.

Sound : 10
This is my second Zager and just like the first, it has that deep rich sound and clear highs and plugged in it is even more impressive. I've played other acoustic electrics, some far more expensive than the Zager, none sounded better. I generally play Electric Blues, but lately I have been playing (or learning) Bluegrass. This Zager as with my other one, handles both with ease, in fact the Zagers have enabled me to speed up my fingering, and no sore fingers! With the onboard electronics I am able to get a variety of great sounds.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The action is fast and easy, the set up was as close to perfect as you can get. The notes are true where ever you play on the neck. The low strings and the spacing really help in "finger picking" along with easier bar chording.

Reliability/Durability : 10
My first Zager has stood up extremely well gigging, and I have no doubt this one will also. These are quality guitars!! I always gig with a backup as you never know what can happen, but I would feel comfortable with the Zager without one.

Customer Support : 10
When you buy a Zager, whether from Zager or somewhere else, you become part of the Zager family. If you have never dealt with Zager you really don't know what customer support is! They are always there ready to answer a question, give helpful advice etc. The warranty is lifetime!!

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing for over 45 years, and I own a '08 ZAD 50ce, '03 USA Fender Strat, a '01 Gibson Lucille, a '96 USA fender Tele and a '89 Gibson Country Gentleman. As you can see, I am used to playing quality easy playing guitars so for my first acoustic (not counting the stella I had when I was 16) I wanted a quality, great sounding and easy playing one. I have played mid to high range Taylors, Martins, Gibsons ect. After reading some reviews on the Zagers, I decided to try one (if I didn't like it I could ship it back..at THEIR expense) I loved it, the tone ease of play and also the looks! The ZAD 80CE is even one step above the 50CE. There just isn't anything even at twice the price that can compare with it. I would definately replace them, if something happened!!


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 09/02/2008 at 04:47pm by Tristan Koehler

Features : 10
From the Zager website (Zager.com)

Full Size Dreadnought
Venetian Cutaway Design - lower frets are very accessible
Solid Spruce Top
Rosewood Back & Sides
Grover Sealed Tuning Gears
Built in Transducer
Onboard Equalizer - Fishman Clearwave 50
Guitar Strap Audio Jack
Onboard Electronic Tuner - Part of Fishman equalizer package
Abalone Inlay Rosette
Full Abalone Inlay
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
100% Money Back Guarantee
Lifetime Warranty
Hard case with humidifier

You get alot of guitar for the money.

Sound : 9
The guitar sounds great. I compared it to many guitars at my local music store and it sounds better than all others in it's price range. I found the sound comparable to guitars costing $2-3000. I know everyone says that, and you may think this is just Zager hype, but it is soo true.

The sound is rich and full, and harmonics are great. The only reason I did not give the guitar a 10 in this catagory is that I find the high E string to sound a bit thin, compared to the other strings. All the others are perfect. I'm not sure if this is true of all Martin/Sigma dreadnoughts, or it's just my guitar.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 9
As advertised, I found the action close to the nut to be outstanding. Low action and light gauge strings means this is an easy guitar to play.

I did not rate this guitar a 10 because the string height at the saddle I found to be a little high. When I got above the 12th fret, the action was higher than I liked. A freind of mine played it and was amazed by the action, and felt you really couldn't go lower with out buzzing. I am a true fanatic about the string height so I sanded down the saddle a bit and now my action is flawless. No buzzing anywhere.

Reliability/Durability : 10
I've had the guitar for 4 months and it has been rock solid. So far, so good.

Customer Support : 10
Zager really shines here. I had instant response to any emails. I've had no major problems yet but have no reason not to believe their lifetime warranty policy.

Overall Rating : 10
This guitar is a fantastic value for the money. It compares to guitars that cost $2-3000. You may find that hard to believe, so my recommendation is to try one. Order one and try it out. You have nothing to lose, since they have 100% money back guarantee and free shipping both ways.

I almost feel guilty because this is such a great guitar for the price. I've never written a testimonial before, because it's very rare to buy a product these days and be blown away. This company over delivers on their promises.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 08/07/2008 at 12:07am by Jim Sanders
Email: poohcornerpens<at>hotmail dot com

Features : 10
Size Dreadnought
Venetian Cutaway Design - lower frets are very accessible
Solid Spruce Top
Rosewood Back & Sides
Grover Sealed Tuning Gears
Built in Transducer
Onboard Equalizer - Fishman Clearwave 50
Guitar Strap Audio Jack
Onboard Electronic Tuner - Part of Fishman equalizer package
Abalone Inlay Rosette
Full Abalone Inlay
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
100% Money Back Guarantee
Lifetime Warranty
Hard case with humidifier

Sound : 10
I'm an amateur guitarist and most of my music is aimed at Christian worship, although I try to learn a few of the old classics as well. Denny Zager, the luthier who designs his guitars and hand modifies every one going out has a super on line course for playing mostly by ear along with solid music fundamentals. I recommend his site:
www.zagerguitars.com to anyone interested in taking their playing to the next level.

This is my SECOND Zager EZ-play. I've owned a Zager ZAD 50CE acoustic electic guitar for about a year. I just got the CE 80 based on the strong 50CE I have. For new out of the box, this guitar has extremely mellow tones, both highs and lows and it's only going to get better. My 50CE's sound has really mellowed in only about a year which is a tribute to the design, materials, and workmanship of the guitar.

The custom x-braced box is specially designed for light gauge strings. I usually use the Martin Darco extra light guage phosphor bronze wound strings (0.010 - 0.047). The strings are easy to play and along with Denny's magic on the fret board, filed frets and overall design, this one is well over 75% easier for me to play than my son's Seagull and Washburn acoustic guitars.

I've played a bit on my amps. I have a small Crate GT15R and the big brother Crate Line 6 amps. Either amp is fine but the electronics really can drive the larger amp with no problem. Once you get the settings right on the amp and the onboard equalizer you're set. I prefer to use the guitar's equalizer and volume control rather that fussing with the amp. For worship music I usually play with "clean" settings but often will use some reverb or solo. I use a wireless pickup system and the guitar sounds so, so, good. You'd think I was playing a Martin D-28, or something in that category. Except my guitar cost about $3000 less :-)

I have NO DISLIKES. Except for most other guitars I've ever played. Not with one of Denny's.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The action is light and so easy to play.

The electonics are the best I've used on an electric acoustic guitar out of the box. I suppose there could be some tweeking but I'm happy with what I have.

There are ABSOLUTELY NO physical flaws. Any guitar luthier will tell you that any guitar of the same manufacturer and model will be a bit different than its brother or sister. Doing a lot of furniture finish work myself, I can attest to how woods will react to stains and finishes.

This guitar is simply gorgeous through and through. Denny even adds gold plated Grover tuning nuts to highlight the beautiful finish work on the rosewood back and sides and solid spruce top. That abalone inlay is really a nice touch. You'll find no better finish or craftsmanship on most any acoustic guitar in the $3000 - $6000 range. I know; I've looked at them.

Reliability/Durability : 10
As far as reliability and durability, you'll not find one better suited for casual or professional playing.

All you need to do, as with all guitars, is keep them tuned and change the strings as often as necessary. I change mine a minimum of every couple of weeks.

The strap buttons are solid and in fact, unlike many other guitars, the pickup jack on the guitar is reinforced and counter screwed into the guitar. That's about as solid as you're going to get.

As far as a back up guitar? Well, that's a Zager too, but not because I need one for reliability, it's mainly because I can set the electronics up on the guitars and not have to fiddle with them while playing.

Customer Support : 10
Before I purchased my guitar I emailed and called Zager. Both Denny and his son Dennis Jr. are quite personable. Denny was the "Zager" in the music group "Zager and Evans" who us old timers remember for their hit, "In the Year 2525". He has played, designed and modified guitars since at least 1969, the year I graduated High school.

One of them always gets back with my emails in under 24 hours and if I leave a voice mail and would like to chat, I'll get a phone call when it's convenient for me. Who else will do that? Maybe for a professional rocker, etc. who is sponsored by the guitar manufacturer but what about little old me? I had a problem with a certain brand of guitar which shall go unnamed that I spent hours on the phone, countless emails and even a couple of registered letters, trying to get a bowed neck replaced. To make a long story short. It finally got replaced, at my shipping expense both ways and it never played the same again. It's gone. Good riddance. And I paid about $2,000 for the thing. Never again will I have that problem.

I challenge you to Email the Zagers at mail@zagerguitars.com or call them Toll free 1-800-308-9731. If you have any questions at all they will put your mind to rest, and what do you have to lose? Nothing except maybe a closet full of unused guitars :-)


Zager stands behind their guitars with a 100% satisfaction guarranty with your money back, and LIFETIME warranty as long as you keep the guitar in proper condition and use light gauge strings.

Overall Rating : 10
I started playing off and on since about 1968. Stints in the Navy and other jobs that ate up my time kept me from doing much until just a few years ago when I came across Zager guitars when doing some research on the Internet. My son is an accomplished guitarist and he had heard good things about Zager from a few of his guitar playing friends. My other guitar is a Zager ZAD 50CE electric acoustic with the black lacquer finish.

Quite frankly, I didn't really "need" this ZAD 80CE but Denny is retiring from the luthier trade and will concentrate on writing and working on his on-line guitar teaching courses. So, I decided to add the 80CE while they had one. I may have the LAST 80CE unless Denny puts a few more out this year.

My final comment is perhaps a bit subjective but considering the sources, I'll share it with you.

I'm learning fast (at the age of 56) and consider myself competent but we have several very skilled guitarists in our group who love to play my Zager guitars. Among the group is a professional guitarist who has done studio work and who has several "sponsored" guitars. I'll not mention them at his request. Our group has a pretty wide range of instruments with my Zagers being in the bottom tier by price. There are upper end Alvarez, Martin, Taylor, Seagull, Takamine, Guild, Ovation, and Gibson guitars. As far as the players are concerned my guitars are in their league. You can't get a better recommendation than that.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 08/02/2008 at 04:37pm by Ron Striegel
Email: rdjstriegel at hotmail<dot>com

Features : 10
Rosewood back and sides Cedar Front, Nice.

Sound : 10
Mellow sound. Take this into a Guitar Room and compare to a 3K Martin or Taylor. Hey he offers a money back guarantee so if you're not not believing the rating for the money spent, buy it, try it, compare it and then if you don???t like it, send it back???his pricing allows the working stiffs
to afford to play a nice instrument.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Action? He's the only one that talks string science. Easy play. Kind of like getting into a great pair of downhill skis. Great skis that are easy to work will make blue skier a black diamond skier...same with Guitars. Having this well crafted guitar will make you a better player, once you've learned to stop choking the instrument and pushing too hard on the strings. If you???re not used to a light touch, it takes some getting used to that you don???t have to press your fingers through the fret board

Reliability/Durability : 10
Top notch electronics. Great finish. Well constructed.

Customer Support : 10
If there was more that a 10 I'd give it.

Overall Rating : 10


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 1165
Submitted 07/17/2008 at 11:15pm by Doug Funderburk

Features : 10
This is a feature-rich cut-a-way electric (Fishman Clearwave 50) acoustic that sounds as good as any guitar selling for three times the price or more. Cedar top, Rosewood back, sides and fret board abalone inlay binding and rosette tortoise shell pick guard Grover tuners gloss finish scalloped X bracing... you name it, it has it all! And the number ONE feature is the Denny Zager Master Luthier custom nut-bridge-fret board setup that makes this the easiest most comfortable guitar to play!

Sound : 10
My playing style is best described as eclectic. So far, every song I've played has met or exceeded every one my expectations. And the sound is phenomenal! I've plugged it into a practice amp and the electronics worked great! The sound is crisp and full! I have no dislikes whatsoever!

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The action is low with no buzzing and the string spacing is perfect. I won't change any of the factory setup. It's a typical dreadnaught that just cradles down on your leg when sitting and just lies up against your abs and begs to be played. And the finish is first rate; this guitar looks like a million bucks!

Reliability/Durability : 10
Although I've just received it, my Zager looks and feels like it's going to become a family heirloom. All the hardware is top-notch and the finish is rich and deep. I'm confident I can gig this one without backup.

Customer Support : 10
The warranty is life time. My guitar is new but I have two friends that own Zager's and they are completely satisfied with them. One even returned the first unit he purchased after he decided he wanted to upgrade to the 80 series and Zager applied the full purchase price and shipping to the new one. Can't get much better than that!

Overall Rating : 10
I'm self taught and have played off and on for over thirty years. Never serious or professional, just love to play along with others and learn something new overtime I do. If this guitar were stolen, I'd find another exactly like it. I love how easy it is to play and that I can play it for long periods of time. But even more, I love the sound quality. You would think I paid three grand for this baby. I was looking at everything from Seagull's to Martins and this one gave me the value of a Seagull with the sound quality of a Martin. I just wish I had more time to play it!


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 995
Submitted 07/10/2008 at 01:49pm by Chris Kramer
Email: twinsrule2 at verzion<dot>net

Features : 10
Size Dreadnought
Venetian Cutaway Design
Solid Spruce Top
Rosewood Back & Sides
Grover Sealed Tuning Gears
Built in Transducer
Onboard Equalizer
Guitar Strap Audio Jack
Onboard Electronic Tuner
Abalone Inlay Rosette
Full Abalone Inlay
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
100% Money Back Guarantee
Lifetime Warranty
Hard case with humidifier

Sound : 9
Its above my needs for now but I'll grow into it
I'm not using an amp at this time
The guitar has a rich full sound and with with no string buzz.
I like the built in tuner
Have not had it long enough to discover any dislikes

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
It was set up perfectly with high high action due to the lowered frets.
The bridge is a coustom style bridge
Recieved the guitar in great working order, no complaints here

Reliability/Durability : 8
This guitar with stand the test of time as it is durable, reliable, has a finish like a more expensive guitar and assembled with the utmost care with the craftmanship of the best.
I feel I could depend on this guitar but as with any guitar you need a back up incase of unforseen failures such as a busted string.

Customer Support : 10
I've dealt eith the owners and they were extremly helpful in meeting my needs and anwsering any questions in a timely manner.They are easily excessiable at almost anytime includung late evenings and weekends.
Although I have yet to use the warranty I feel confident I will never have any problems getting a repair if needed.
The warranty is THE BEST in the industry as its a lifetime warranty.Of course the it does not cover abuse.

Overall Rating : No Opinion
I'm new to playing but I have played many instruments in my life.
I asked so many question before the sale I thought they may stop anwsering but they always were there to assist me.
I would buy from them again indeed. I love the looks and feel and have no dislikes as of yet. My favorite feature is the hand filed frets as it lower discomfort of my fingers when sliding up and down the neck.
I compared many other guitars and none had the option this on had.
I choose this guitar for its looks and easibility to play.
I feel I have one of the best guitars you can get as, in my opinion , its a masterpiece and an investement that will increase in value.






Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 07/09/2008 at 02:32pm by Doug Headlee

Features : 10
This is a beautiful instrument. Flawless finish. Big sound that is chrystal clear. The electronics are first class. The action is smooth and fast.

Full size dreadnought with Venetial cutaway design. Solid cedar top, rosewood back and sides, rosewood bridge and fret-board. Gloss finish, built in transducer, onboard equalizer, onboard electronic tuner.

I've been playing for over 35 years and this guitar is as nice as any I've ever played. I've played Martins, Gibsons, Guilds, Takamines, Alvarez, Ovations and Taylors.

Sound : 10
I play classic rock, Eagles, Doobies, Bon Jovi, Crosby Still Nash etc. This guitar is perfectly suited for acoustic only or amped up with chorus and reverb.

Rich full sound for leads or rythym. Chrystal clear highs and warm mellow lows.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The guitar came with low action and light strings. This is a finesse instrument. Perfect flawless finish. The look, feel and sound are exactly what you would expect from a high quality instrument.

Reliability/Durability : 10
The electronics, tuners, bridge, neck and pegs all appear to be made out of the best materials and by the best manufacturers. There's is nothing I've found to be a shortcut or second rate in material or workmanship.

Clearly, this instrument can be relied upon without a backup, but I never travel or play with just one instrument.

Customer Support : 10
Full life time warranty. Customer support responds quickly to e-mails and questions. Although I haven't had the need to have any repair or maintenance work done, I have had a number of questions that were resolved immediately.

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing since the early 1970's. I own a Takamine EF-400S accoustic electric 12 string, a Takamine EG-530SSC, a Gibson Les Paul Custom and a Vintage 1957 Fender Stratocaster.

There were no surprises with the Zager. I got all my questions answered and the guitar is exactly what I expected.

If the guitar were ever lost, stolen or damaged I would definitely buy another, provided they were still being made. This is a high quality musical instrument at a very reasonable price.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 995
Submitted 07/07/2008 at 12:56pm by Jean Heller Stephens

Features : 10
This acoustic/electric studio-sized cutaway is, quite simply, beautifully traditional. And true to its hype, it does play easily, making me a more nimble and flexible player than I have been on other instruments. The strings lay close to the frets and are spaced slightly wider than normal for easy clean finger placement without the extra width of a nylon-string classical. The guitar does seem heavier than I'm used to, but since it sits on my thigh, it's really not a problem.

Sound : 10
It has the same rich, throaty tone as my Eric Clapton/Martin, which is saying a lot. I've owned it for a week, and it has responded to all my requests, from folk to blues to classic rock.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Perfect factory setup. Everything tight as a drum. The guitar was nearly perfectly tuned when it arrived. The hardware is beautiful, and the strings are so close to the frets you can nearly blow a chord onto them.

Reliability/Durability : 10
I wouldn't use any guitar on a gig without a backup, but that probably has more to do with the possibility of a string fraying or breaking than anything to do with the guitar itself. I've only had it a week, but this instrument seems as if it would stand up to any reasonable use. The finish is very uniform and deep, and everything about the guitar is solid.

Customer Support : 10
Lifetime warranty. Awesome support. My first contact with the Zager company was by email on a Sunday evening, and someone was there. No repairs required yet, but if early experience is an indicator, they will be there when I need them.

Overall Rating : 10
I've been playing for 36 years. In addition to the Zager 80CE, I own a Martin/Eric Clapton signature, a Small Martin for travel, and a Cordoba acoustic/electric nylon-string classical guitar. My favorite feature on the Zager is the string positions. My least favorite is the weight. I recommend the Zager line without qualification. The 80CE cost less than half what the Clapton Martin cost, and compares quite favorably.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 06/25/2008 at 07:57am by Gary A.

Features : 9
Dreadnought with cutaway
Solid Cedar Top.
Rosewood Sides and back.
Gold color Grover tuning keys.
Fishman Clearwave 50 Graphic EQ with tuner.
EQ adjustments: Bass, Mid, Treble, Brilliance and volume.
Specially cut nut with wider string placement.
Hand filed bridge that allows for accurate intonation.
Low action.

My only complaint is there is no strap post at the neck area. For that reason alone I give this catagory a rating of 9.

Sound : 10
Sound is rich and full and sings with clarity and boatloads of sustain.
Lot's of adjustment for a variety of sounds.
What I dislike about this guitar is that when A/B'd against my 1979 Takamine F-349 it exposed how imperfect the intonation was on the 349.
Seriously, what not to like about this guitar.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Attention to detail (matching grain pattern, binding, fretwork,intonation, low action, and overall finish) are absolutely superb. This is one beautiful guitar. Steller workmanship.

Reliability/Durability : 10
This guitar is new but I do not expect any problems with it now or in the near future. Has Grover tuners and Fishman electronics that should be very reliable. The finish looks deep, lusterous, and seems to be quite tough.

I ordered the specially designed case and glad I did. It is very functional, nice looking, plush lined, sturdy hard shell, locks, and comes with a Humidity/Temperature sensor too.

Customer Support : 10
Customer support is astounding! Second to none. Very friendly and have never failed to answer any question I have posed to them. Do these people ever sleep? I did a lot of research concerning buying a guitar and found that most of those who didn't own a Zager were knocking the guitar badly while those who did own it praised it highly. After reading those negative reports I was concerned that I may have made a huge mistake because of these reports. Let me tell you after bombarding Dennis Zager Jr. with boatloads of questions and concerns he put my mind totally at ease. They offer a 100 % money back guarantee with shipping both ways paid if you are not completely satisfied. Have you ever seen that anywhere else? Also, I read through the 1800+ Ebay feedback replies and they were not 80%, not 90% but 100% Positive. They are a member of the Better Business Bureau with an absolutely clear record.

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing off and on since age 12 (1964). I love this guitar and would not want to loose it. For tone, action, playability, fit, finish and attention to detail in all area's I rate this a ten. As stated previously I wish it had a strap post near the neck. In one of Mr. Zager's videos he explains a very easy way to add the strap post by drilling a small hole in the body near the neck, using a small screw, washer, and wingnut so it should be a no brainer to install it. I guess there was a good reason for them not to have done this in the first place and will ask them out of my curiosity.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 900.
Submitted 06/24/2008 at 10:33am by Kyle Wood

Features : 10

Made with love in the USA. Small family company doing everything the right way. Top of the line throughout. Must see to believe.

Built in transducer and electronic package - Fishman

Solid Cedar/Rosewood, Full abalone inlay - Beautiful guitar

Real nice Grover tuners


Comes with electronic humidifier, picks, autograph of Deny Zager, Martin strings, T-shirt.

Sound : 10
Great rich, full sound. Sounds better than most guitars that are three times more expensive. Sounds like a thirty year old guitar. I play with it unplugged a lot. When I do plug in I use a Roland acoustic amp.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The only guitar I know of to travel half way across the country and be in perfect tune when I took it out of the box. This is a quality guitar.

The action is set low for easy playing. The strings are also set a little farther apart to make this guitar the easiest guitar you have ever played.

Reliability/Durability : 10
Finish is fantastic. Can't beat the electronics or the Grover tuners. Overall, a solid guitar through and through.

Customer Support : 10
Best custumer support. Can you you say you talked to the president of the guitar company you bought from. I did. I had a few questions and received e-mails back in under 10 minutes. Promised if I didn't like it for any reason I could return no questions asked and of course no restocking fee. Not many companies do that.

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing for a relatively short time but I looked at and tried many different guitars. It would not be fair to say, "for the money this is a great guitar". The reason is because this is a great guitar despite the fact your not paying thousands of dollars. All my friends that spent large amounts of money on their guitars are green with envy. Looks great, sounds better, and a small family that cares about their work and product.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 995
Submitted 06/18/2008 at 10:03am by Robert Godwin
Email: rgodwin at cfl<dot>rr<dot>com

Features : 10
This is a solid Cedar Top, Redwood back and side guitar with a cutaway. It comes with an electronic tuner and pickup and plugs into any board or speakers (1/8 plug). For the price, the finish and style are best of the best.

Sound : 10
Perfect note quality and great tone, especially when plugged in. Again, this guitar is far less money than top end Taylors and Martins, but sounds absolutely terrific.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
If you have other guitars, even very expensive, high end guitars (like I have), and you wish to continue playing those guitars on a regular basis, then do not purchase a Zager. You will (and I don't believe there will be any exceptions) play the Zager more than any other guitar you own, no matter how much money you spent on your other guitars.

Reliability/Durability : 10
Guitar seems very well made (I believe the body work is made in the Martin factory). Denny Zager sets every guitar up himself; a custom set up, by the master.

Hard to say how the quality is long term, since I recently received the instrument, but the initial quality is excellent.

Customer Support : 10
Absolutely top notch - check out my final comments below.

Overall Rating : 10
Being a chronic skeptic, I ordered a new 80CE from Denny with an exaggerated sense of trepidation. While the testimonials on Zager's website are quite impressive, infomercials regularly line up willing and able customers to help peddle the latest gadget or poorly constructed piece of rubbish. When the gadget arrives, and typically after only a few uses, the item does not live up to your most watered-down expectations. And then you enter the unsavory black hole of waiting on hold the equivalent of the running time of the TBS "Old Testament" mini-series, waiting for a live person to get on the help line, just to learn to your utter dismay that you are more knowledgeable about the product than the underpaid, temp worker on the other side of the planet, whose remedial English is the tipping point between sanity and the beckoning abyss.

Needless to say I've had my share of bad internet experiences, just like everyone else.

My experience with Zager guitars was the exact opposite; it was absolutely first rate. The guitar is a gem. Like other buyer's on this page I own several high end instruments (Taylor, Ibanez, etc.) and the quality the Zager 80CE is absolutely terrific. The Zager guitar is the best instrument value offered by anyone, anywhere - period. I think Denny is a saint for sticking to his guns for so long and selling direct, cutting out the middle man and passing the savings on to the customer. The tone of the guitar is excellent. My daughter is a gifted musician and music composition major in college, and she called the clarity of the individual notes on my Zager, exquisite. And to top of a great price and great sound, the guitar is downright addictive to play. I can sense my Taylor 814CE begging me from across the room to pick her up and play her a little bit, but I just have to get one or two more licks in on the Zager, and a couple of licks turns into a couple of hours of playing. This guitar is easy and fun to play. Try one and tell me differently...you won't.

And finally, the customer service is second to none. I had a minor issue with my 80CE and made a suggestion for a very fair resolution to the issue. Denny Jr. blew me away when he addressed the issue beyond my idea of fair, making me feel like I was part of the family; I guess I am part of the family now - the Zager family. Because, not only am I buying a second guitar to add to my collection, I will be a life long advocate of Zager guitars.




Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 895 USED
Submitted 06/17/2008 at 02:24pm by Robbie
Email: preachinblues at aol<dot>com

Features : 10
Here are all the high-end appointments of this fine guitar:
- EZ-Play Modified
- Full size dreadnought box
- Solid Cedar Top
- Venetian Cutaway
- Rosewood 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 on Binding
- Abalone Inlay Rosette
- Tortoise Shell Pickguard
- Genuine "Martin" Strings
- Built-in Transducer & Electronics w/easy access battery compartment

Sound : 10
An exceptionally bright, deep, piano-like, FULL sound that seemingly emanates from the entire guitar. It suits two of the styles I play, which are bluegrass and folk. Notes are very clear and concise, which makes you want to work on your chording so that the notes ring out even longer. Great for flatpicking.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Guitar was given the Zager EZ play-treatment, so the action is low as physically possible with NO buzzing and lots of resonation and sustain. Lots of attention to detail here, all geared towards making the guitar more playable. Yet, there are also enough high-end appointments to make the guitar a "looker," too. Will definitely keep this one in the case and away from any visitors, taking it out for private moments when I want to treat myself to a nice playing experience.

No flaws at all (and this guitar was sold to me as a demo model).

Reliability/Durability : 10
The guitar seems almost too beautiful to play, though the workmanship tells me that if I were the kind of player that didn't care about the condition of my instruments, this guitar would probably take a lot of punishment. Finish is glossy and pristine and will probably last a while. Hardware is very solid and durable. Too nice to gig with, quite frankly, but that's okay -- I bought it for studio work, not for banging around at the local bar. No strap buttons.

Customer Support : 10
No need for repairs, though Denny and his crew have been very responsive through emails and making sure that I like the instrument. They are exceptionally friendly and considerate, making me feel as though the happier I am, the happier they are. Good feelings that come seldom in this guitar-buying business. Wish they had more guitars left (this was the last of its kind to be made by Zager).

Overall Rating : 10
I've been playing for over 20+ years, professionally and otherwise. I've been through LOTS of guitars -- vintage, new, high-end and low-end, from holy grail guitars to no-name pawn models. I own about 7 other guitars, most of which are electrics. This is my only dreadnaught guitar, and I typically don't like Dreads but I do like this one. If it were stolen, I would visit every Pawn Shop and frequent eBay until I found it again. If I have any gripe, it is the fact that the finish is glossy (I am partial to satiny finishes), though the finish is smooth enough that I'll get over it. I love the tone and the overall vibe it has. Owning it makes me feel like I have some sort of secret treasure that only certain players have discovered.

I only wish that Denny Zager would NEVER EVER retire from the guitar-building business. He is an incredible craftsman and one I am proud to call a colleague in the guitar-playing, guitar-loving universe. If you love guitars, you need to pay him some respect. He LOVES guitars enough to make guitars that the world loves, too. Best wishes, Denny.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 995
Submitted 06/02/2008 at 04:39pm by J. Conn

Features : 10
The ZAD-80CE is a full size dreadnought electric acoustic with Fishman electronics.
It has an excellent gloss finish, Grover tuners, flat neck, rosewood sides and back with solid cedar top and Abalone inlay on binding and rosette. (Beautiful)

Sound : 10
I play contemporary, country and western. No string buzz, thanks to Zager's String Science. Rich, full sound from the cedar top. Great sustain. I like everything without exception.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The action defines the Zager - it is setup perfectly!
No flaws anywhere on the guitar and the overall fit and finish of the wood is outstanding.

Reliability/Durability : 10
I would say this ZAD-80CE will be around for a long time. It is a quality instrument, well made and deserving of its fine reputation. All parts are solid and show top craftsmanship overall.

Customer Support : 10
Zager has the best service of any company. 100% money back guarantee and a Lifetime Warranty. The Zager staff is knowledgeable, friendly and courteous. They talked to me and answered all my questions. I felt like I was a family friend!

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing 40 years and would certainly replace my ZAD-80CE if something happened to it. I've played them all and I'll go out with my Zager!


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 1000
Submitted 05/09/2008 at 04:59pm by ovation86
Email: michaelriggle<at>yahoo dot com

Features : 10
Solid top USA made, fishman electronics, on-board tuner that works wonderfully, Grover tuners, 20 frets, abalone inlay, cutaway, nice workable thin neck, simply will WOW you.

Sound : 10
Crisp clear precise.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Almost flawless. Truly a joy to own.

Reliability/Durability : 10
Any fine instrument will give back to you according to how you care for it. I would play on stage with it, but it is always prudent to have back up.

Customer Support : 10
If ANY company has better customer service, they are very unique. These guys are always available. Feels like dealing with friends.

Overall Rating : No Opinion
I own a zad 80ce, an ovation collectors edition shallow bowl 1986 model (purchased new) and a Taylor acoustic electric. I also own a PRS and Stratocaster electric as well as a Yamaha acoustic electric classical. All expensive guitars. The Zager was the least expensive
out of this group, however, I like it the best. It is very very nicely fit and finished, great action on the neck, light weight, and nicely in tune all up and down the neck. A "C" is a "C" everywhere on the neck. No slightly off notes. I hate when open chords sound good and then bar chords are a little off. Maybe I am just lucky, but my Zager is beautiful, flawless, and playable for hours with no fatigue. I spent $2700 on my Taylor and had to have it adjusted to make it more playable and it is still not as nice as my Zager. I have been playing for 41 years and I am in no way reimbursed by Zager
for this review. I am sorry that it took so long for me to find out about Zager and purchase one. I love the instrument. You will too.
Try it. You too will be amazed.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 04/17/2008 at 02:16pm by Steven J

Features : 10
This 2008 model ZAD 80CE is made in USA By a family owned company!
Full Size Dreadnought
Venetian Cutaway Design
Scalloped X-bracing
Gloss finish!
Solid Ceder Top!
Rosewood Back & Sides
Rosewood bridge
Rosewood fret-board
The Zag CE80 has 20 hand filled frets!
Hand-Carved Custom Nut
Hand-Carved Custom Saddle
Sealed Grover Tuning Gears
Abalone Inlay on Binding
Abalone Inlay Rosette (Laid by hand around the entire outside edge of the sound hole)
Tortoise Shell Pickguard
Genuine "Martin" Strings
On board equilizer to include on board tuner!
Controls Made by Fishman!
The controls include 3 sliders controlling your Highs, Lows, and Mids, a single slider controlling the "presence" of your guitar through the amplifier, and a single knob to control the volume level.
Plus a built in transducer! installed by pro luthier Denny Zager(bringing out the extended bass response and rich ambiance of your guitar's wood plugged into a amp like a electric)
Included was a guitar stand - Zager T shirt - light Zager guitar picks!





Sound : 10
I play Folk rock and Christion rock!
This guitar is perfect for my style of music!
I am plugging into a Crate GT212 Guitar amplifier!
The sound of this guitar is rich and pure with no buzz!
The guitar sounds just as good unplugged in as it does plugged in only louder!
I also use this guitar with TC electronics guitar effects with awesome results!
This guitar is not noisy at all just pure rich Full quality sound!
I can play this guitar soft or loud with very little effort!
I have no dislikes about this guitar!

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The action of this guitar is fantastic.
My fingers do not get tired when I play this ZAD 80CE.
The pickups sound better than other acoustic guitars I have played!
This guitar arrived in tune only needed a slight adjustmnt to be ready to play.
With no flaws!


Reliability/Durability : 10
I have no dought this guitar will work great for live playing.
I have not owned it long enough to say for sure!
I bought this guitar for performing live as well as use in my home recording studio!
It is put together excellant.
The strap buttons are very solid.
I would not use any guitar on a gig with no back up!

Customer Support : 10
My e mails have been answered very fast!
Customer support has been great.
I have not had any issues with buying a guitar from this company.
I belive 100% if I have a problem in the future with my guitar I will be well taken care of.
There is a full 100% money back guarantee!
To include free shipping on the return if ever needed.
Add that with a life time guarantee and it does not get any better than that for customer support.

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing guitar for 39 years!
I have owned Yamaha acoustic. Jay Turner Electric Les paul . Kramer Electric strat style electric.
And a Sigma Martin acoustic!
I will not be playing my other guitars much any more.
If this guitar where lost or stolen.
I would replace it with another ZAD 80CE as soon as one could be shipped!
When this guitar arrived it took less than one min to be fully tuned and ready to play.
I have played several guitars befor decideing to buy the Zager.
I played Martins Taylors Guilds Gibson etc.
I have a good ear for sound and this ZAD 80CE guitar sounds as good as most of the major brand guitars priced several thousand dollars more.
Some of the guitars I played in stores sounded flat compared to the quality full rich sound of a Zager guitar.
I am also impressed with the Gloss finish and quality craftmanship of this guitar.
I play soft and hard rock for differant sound effects and this ZAD 80CE has had no problem creating the sound and effect needed for my original music!
With less pressure on my fingers due to the low action set up by Denny Zager!
The only thing I wish is I had heard of this company sooner as the price is affordable and I could have been sounding better a long time ago!
Steven J



Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 895
Submitted 04/11/2008 at 11:06pm by John Greer

Features : 10
My guitar is a dreadnought size acoustic/electric it has a "Fishman" electronics unit that includes an equalizer, tuner and volume control. I find it very handy to have the tuner built in. Construction is rosewood for back, sides and fretboard and a solid cedar top. It includes Grover tuning gears that I really like. I purchased the Zager case with the guitar that fits the guitar nicely it came with a temperature and humidity indicator. It doesn't have a built in humidifier but I live in Florida and have no use for one. The only thing I could possibly add from new is a button to hold the neck end of a strap. The positioning might be a matter of personal preference so maybe better left to the customer discretion to install. Another feature I like is a thin neck which works well with my stubby old fingers.

Sound : 10
The guitar has a rich deep tone. I play it lightly and get plenty of volume. I think is sounds great compared to any guitar I've heard. If you want a brighter sound you should look at the smaller version.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
I am very satisfied with the light action which fits my style and ability. I haven't noticed any flaws or fitting problems with the guitar or the "EZ-Play" setup from Zager which is just that. I have had some very accomplished musicians play my guitar. They have commented very positively on the setup.

Reliability/Durability : 9
I believe this guitar to be a finely tuned instrument, I treat it as such. I haven't had any problems and don't think there will be any. I'm aware of professional guitarists using Zagers that love them. If you like to play with heavy strings and heavy hands you might run into problems. I don't believe the design is geared for that type of playing. They do have a lifetime warranty.

Customer Support : 10
The company is incredible to work with. They have communicated better and answered my questions faster than I ever would have expected. They give you personal service that's hard to beat. I haven't had any particular problems with my instrument but feel confident that they will stand behind their satisfaction guarantee and lifetime warranty.

Overall Rating : 10
I have friends with more expensive big name guitars that are considering a Zager as their next purchase. If it was stolen I wouldn't think about purchasing anything else. This guitar with its direct from Zager pricing is loaded with features and is the best value I have found out there.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 895
Submitted 04/11/2008 at 09:30am by Kyle

Features : 10
Love this new acoustic from Zager. Solid Cedar top. Has fisher pick up with built in tuner. Really nice. All and all beutiful guitar.

Sound : 10
This guitar has a rich full sound. Sounds great through an amp or pa.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The set up on this guitar is where the rubber hits the road. It makes any other acoustic guitar I've played seem like a stick with strings. It is gentle on the fingers while projecting nice volume.

Reliability/Durability : 10
Its brand spanking new but it appears to be a well built guitar.

Customer Support : 10
The service was amazing. The first guitar I received had a slight string buzz. I contacted Zager and they assisted me on line in trying to correct it. Ultimately they emailed me a shipping label and offered to ship it back at thier expense and fix it. I was so impressed that I asked if i could upgrade from the ZAD50 to the ZAD80. They even sent me the ZAD 80 before they had received the ZAD 50 back.

Overall Rating : 10
Every Friday night I jam with some really great musicians here in Seattle. I brought in my new guitar and didn't get to play it because everyone was so impressed by the sound and playability. For the money I spent and the sound I got I don't beleive there is any better value out there.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 900.00
Submitted 04/01/2008 at 06:22pm by Karen

Features : 10
This is an accoustic/electric guitar with 20 frets. It is Solid Cedar/Rosewood, Full abalone Inlay, Gold Hardware, and is beautiful to look at! It has a built in tuner. I bought the case, which locks, has a humidistat and thermometer. It came with an extra set of strings, wrench, and access to online videos for care and use. It's a great set up for someone without a whole lot of experience using or caring for a guitar. I purchased it for my daughter, who is a talented player, but doesn't have a whole lot of experience with an instrument of this caliber.

Sound : 10
My Zager was purchased as a gift for my daughter. It is an accoustic/electric guitar. She hasn't used it with an amp. The guitar has a rich mellow sound that is loud but not excessively bright. It sounds incredible whether strumming or picking. The string position makes it as easy to pick as her classical guitar, but with the lower action, neither of us experience near the finger fatigue we had with the classical guitar

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The guitar arrived still perfectly in tune from the factory! The low action makes it a pleasure to play, with minimal fatigue. It has a built in tuner to get us up and playing quickly. I didn't find any flaws or problems with the guitar. Its set up couldn't have been better. It arrived ready to go. I went over it with a fine tooth comb and couldn't find a flaw.

Reliability/Durability : 10
The Zager has all the bells and whistles we were looking for. It has a beautiful finish that is smooth and flawless. It holds perfect tune, and certainly is dependable for us. I wouldn't recommend anything else if your budget and sound quality are important to you!

Customer Support : 10
I haven't needed any service for this guitar. When I was considering a guitar purchase, all my inquiries were answered professionally and courteously in less than an hour. Dennis Zager was very friendly and prompt. The guitar was packaged very carefully and arrived with new strings and all the info I needed to start playing and caring for this instrument. It has a lifetime warranty.

Overall Rating : 10
I have played for 30 years, my daughter has played for two years. She is ecstatic about this guitar. We also own yamaha classical guitars. This is an amazing instrument for the price, which had to be a consideration. It sounds better than the guitars we tested at the Guitar Center, for sure! It has a mellow, rich, full sound that isn't overpowering or tinny. I'm having a difficult time coming up with any complaints. I can't imagine a better value for the money spent!


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 03/13/2008 at 11:18pm by BC

Features : 10
DreadNought with venetian cutaway, Solid Cedar Top, Rosewood Back and Sides, Grover Tuners - Gold, Fishman Electronics with Built in Tuner, Abalone Inlay, Tortoise Shell Pick Guard, Hand Carved Custom Nut/Saddle, Hand Filed Frets, Scalloped X-bracing, Rosewood Fretboard, Rosewood Bridge.

Sound : 10
The guitar has a rich full sound when playing classical or fingerstyle. When strummed with a pick it is bright and clear. I play it through a Fender Acoustasonic SFX ampifier but it also sounds great unplugged.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
This guitar is setup to be easy to play. The action is low and fast and it produces a good clean sound. The guitar's finish is excellent. There were no problems with the guitar when I received it.

Reliability/Durability : 10
The hardware, wood and craftsmanship on the guitar are of the best quality. With proper care there is every reason to beleive this guitar will last a lifetime and would withstand live playng.

Customer Support : 10
Zager guitars customer service is great. I emailed and called many times before and after I purchased the guitar. Everyone was friendly and extremely helpful. Also, they have a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Overall Rating : 10
I've been playing guitar for 43 years. I own Guild, Gibson, Lowden, Taylor, Alvarez, Fender, Yamaha and Ibanez guitars. The Zager guitar is easy to play, sounds great, looks beautiful. This guitar is one of the best I've ever played.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 03/13/2008 at 12:24pm by sandy

Features : 10
Cutaway, acoustic electric guitar with a solid spruce top, rosewood back, sides, and fretboard. Abalone inlays around soundhole and top edge. Sealed, easy to operate tuners, and Fishman "Clear Wave 50" pickup. High gloss, exquisite finish. Appearance indicates superior craftsmanship and affordable price is surprising!

Sound : 10
Whether played with or without an amp, the sound is rich, mellow, and very resonant. I play mostly pop and folk and the sound is absolutely perfect to complement my style of music. Using special features on an amplifier would allow this guitar to be used for any kind of music. I purchased the ZAD 80-CE because of the solid cedar top---the sound is more mellow and seems to amplify the bass notes a bit more than the spruce top. The rosewood sides and back add to the mellow sound.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The EZ-Play setup characteristic of the Zager guitars makes playing fun again for me. The lower string set means no more painful fingertips, and the slightly wider distance between strings means less buzzing and finger cramping trying to get even pressure on the frets. The EZ-play string setup is perfect for both amateurs and professionals, and for women and children who may not have strong fingers and wrists. It is truly a guitar made and set up by people who play regularly and know the difficulties in fingering chords. After not playing for many years, I took this guitar out of the box and played for over two hours without pain or characteristic "finger ruts!"

Reliability/Durability : 10
This guitar appears to have a very solid, thick, gloss finish, so should last a lifetime. The Zager company offers a lifetime guarantee on their guitars, so there must be a track record of longevity in their instruments. The tuning hardware is sealed and operates smoothly, so does not appear to be susceptible to damage from dirt or dryness. Tuning pegs are metal and a beautiful gold-toned finish. The strap button shares the pickup cord, but seems long enough to support the strap and not put pressure on the cord.

Customer Support : 10
From my limited dealings with the company I would speculate that they stand behind their products 100%. My husband surprised me with this guitar as an anniversary gift but didn't order the case. I called to see if I could get the case for the same price as when included in the package deal of case and guitar. They shipped the case immediately, and even paid the shipping costs. They offer a lifetime warranty and a no risk guarantee if you buy a guitar---they will arrange pickup, refund the total price of the instrument, and pay shipping BOTH ways. It's hard to beat that kind of service. When I had questions about the on-line lessons, my email was answered within an hour. I would rate them tops in customer support, service, and even customer care. In the box with the guitar were a stand, extra strings, picks, a T-shirt, and a polaroid photo of Denny Zager holding "my" guitar! As a family business they produce an outstanding guitar at an affordable price, and stand behind what they sell. Much of their success is due not only to the quality and affordability of their products, but to the customer support which they are willing to provide.

Overall Rating : No Opinion
I am 63 years old and started playing when I was 7 on the old "Stella." I quit taking lessons and taught myself chords and songs. When I was 18 I received a Martin 00-18 and played it for years, but my fingertips hurt after every session. I inherited a vintage Gibson LG-2 from my great uncle and that was my guitar of choice because it was easier to play. A few years ago I purchased another Martin---a DM Dreadnought (by mail because it looked good, something no one should ever do!). But that was not easy for me to play. I stumbled upon the Zager website by accident and was intrigued by the claim of the EZ-Play setup. My husband surprised me with one and it has renewed my interest in playing. I will be selling both Martins and the Gibson, as I will not be playing them anymore. I would recommend this guitar to anyone---amateur, hobbyist, or professional. The Zager guitars are proof that you can buy a top-quality guitar at an affordable price. If my 80-CE were ever lost or stolen I would buy another one just like it in a heartbeat.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 1085
Submitted 03/07/2008 at 11:45am by Jerry Gilmore
Email: jermyboy<at>yahoo dot coom

Features : 10
Georgous Solid Cedar top, Rosewood back and sides, very deep high gloss finish. I was amazed at the appearance of this guitar from the moment I opened the case. Has a Fishman equalizer with a great tuner built in. I have been fortunate to attend the NAAM show in Anaheim,CA for the last 4 years and have played, fondeled, carressed and drooled over many fine guitars form Martin, Gibson, Guild, Taylor, Breedlove, Laravie, Takamine, Ovation and others whose nanes escape me. But I have never seen a better finish or atention to detail as is on this guitar. The inlay and binding are incredible to look at and close examination has not revealed any flaws or problems. I ordered the wooden case with the humidity gauge built in. It is better than my other cases with the exception of the Ovation moulded cases. It will protedt my Zager veery well.

Sound : 10
I waited for a few hours after opening the case to allow the guitar to equalize in temperature and humidity. I found the onboard tuner easy to use and it was surprised at the volume of the sound at first strum. I A/B'ed it back and forth with my Ovation Adamas and was surprised to find that volume at least as loud as the Ovation if not more. As I moved down the fretboard to the higher notes I was plesently surprised that my barre chords were as bright and clear as the open chords on the first three frets. What a great sound. The intonation was true all the way down past the 14th fret. I plugged it into my Crate AD30 and was really impressed with the amplified sound. Again I A/B'ed it back and forth with my Adamas and it was just as good if not better.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Having played guitar for the last 45 years, I was skeptical of the claims of "easy play". I have small and fat fingers and have had problems over the years with string buzzing but the additional spacing between the strings really works. I have no buzzing even on songs I know buzzed while playing my Ovations and Martins of other players. The action is very close to my elctrics and is quite easy on the fingers. The finish is incredible. Being a wood worker, I am super critical and always looking for flaws in wood products. I have found none in this guitar.

Reliability/Durability : 10
The guitar arrived without a strap peg on the neck area. I contacted Dennis Zager to ask about peg placement and he advised me to look at the videos Denny Zager has posted on the Zager web site. I was skeptical about his placement suggestions until I noticed my Ovation Adamas has the peg in relatively the same place. Dennis sent me a strap peg at no charge and I installed according to the directions. It really makes a difference. Placement the way Denny suggested allows the guitar to hang well balanced and tilted slightly inward so there is no effort in holding the guitar to your side when playing in a standing position. I realize I have only had my Zager for a few weeks but I know it will last a very long time and serve me well. Can't wait to show it off to my buddies in California.

Customer Support : 10
Customer support has been great. As I mentioned, I talked with Dennis Zager about the guitar and placement of the strap peg. The fact that he sent me a strap peg without me asking says a lot about thier desire to have happy customers. I will not hesitate to call on them if I have any questions or problems.

Overall Rating : No Opinion
I have been playing for over 45 years and do mostly country and southern rock. I played the Folk seen during my college years with my Alvarez Classic and helped "Michael row the boat ashore" more times than I care to remember. I own an Ovation Legend bought new in '84, an '01 Ovation Adamas, a Takamine F349 Lawsuit copy of the Martin D 17, several J Turser electrics, a James Burton Signature Tele, and a new Gibson ES 339. My amps are the Crate AD30, a Trace Elliot Super Tramp, a Fender G-Dec, A Line 6 Spyder III practice amp and a new Epiphone Mini Half Stack. If my Zager were lost or stolen, I would not hesitate to order another one.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 850
Submitted 02/27/2008 at 10:37pm by Mike

Features : 10
Excellent finish. Woodwork is incredible. Hand waxed and not one flaw. Dreadnought cutaway. Gold Grover tuners. Fast neck with hand filed frets. Extra set of strings, truss rod wrench, picks and instructions included. Case comes with humidity/temp gauge. Made in 2007, origin, not sure. Solid wood throughout with onboard tuner and Fishman preamp.

Sound : 10
I play rock and country, not professionally. This is one of the easiest playing guitars I have ever owned. It can sound rich, full and bright all at the same time. The only thing I dislike about this guitar is that it took me so long to find it.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Guitar is professionally modified and set up by Master Luthier Denny Zager Sr. before being shipped. Arrived in perfect tune without even a finerprint on the finish. The wood is beautiful, everthing fits properly and plays like a dream.

Reliability/Durability : 10
I have played guitar for over 40 years, mostly for my own enjoyment. I have owned many different acoustic and electric guitars and spent many hours visiting guitar dealers and playing guitars I can't afford. Without a doubt, the Zager products are the easiest playing and best quality instruments I have seen and at about 1/2 the price of better known name brands. After seeing the quality of the ZAD 80-CE, I bought a ZAD 50-OM for my daughter and a ZAD 15 for my grandaughter to learn on. They are all solid wood, great quality instruments with top class hardware and craftsmanship. I do not play professionally, but I have no doubt that these guitars will withstand years of punishment and only get better.

Customer Support : 10
I had major issues with the shipping company. Zager customer service was the best I have ever dealt with. Denny Jr. responded immediatley. It didn't matter if it was late at night or early in the morning. This is a company that is definitely focused on customer service and will do whatever it takes to support their products and satify their customers

Overall Rating : 10
I have played for over 40 years. I currently own 3 Zagers, and an Epiphone Jumbo Acoustic, a Terada Acoustic, Alverez Acoustic and Les Paul Studio Electric. I would definitely replace any of the Zagers with the same model if it was stolen. All of the Zagers, I own the 80CE, 50OM and the 15 (baby zager), are the best sounding, easiest playing guitars I have ever picked up. The ZAD 15 plays much better than the Baby Taylor and the Baby Martin. The 80 and the 50 are very comparable to the Taylors and Martins that cost 2-3 times as much. There is nothing I can say bad about any of the 3 models.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 02/22/2008 at 10:38am by John Paul

Features : 10
Spruce Top Mahogany sides - wonderful full sound. Easy play system - strings are close to the frets and the strings slightly widened. A delight to play. Fishman electronics. This is a cutaway making the upper frets easy to get to. Locking tuners - rosewood neck - with a great molded hard case.

Sound : 10
I play 60's music with a need for electric and accoustic. This really fits the bill and your fingers are not tired after a long gig. It has an amzingly rich sound and it is brand new.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Perfect

Reliability/Durability : No Opinion
I have not had it long but it has performed admirably with no worry about needing a backup. Stays in tune very well. I can depend on this guitar.

Customer Support : 10
The support is amazing. They will literally talk to you at any time day or night. Shipping is incredible. They do it all.

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing for 45 years - I own a Stratocaster and a LP Jr. The one thing that will attract you to this guitar is the amazing ease on your fingers. You will not find this in any other stock accoustic out there. You can absolutely buy with confidence because if you don't like it they will take it back (no questions asked). They will even pay shipping both ways. How can you beat that...


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 895.00
Submitted 02/21/2008 at 12:37pm by Steve Bounds
Email: bsteve47<at>yahoo dot com

Features : 10
Beautiful dreadnought cutaway. Rosewood back and sides and solid cedar top with gorgeous abalone inlay. Mahogony neck with rosewood fingerboard.Made by the same factory that makes the Martin Sigma and then personaly customized nut,saddle and 20 hand filed frets and set up by Denny Zager Sr.Gold Grover tuners, Fishman electronics with built in tuner

Sound : 10
I write and record Country music and Gospel music and the sound is rich and pure with thumb and fingers, brighter with pick.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Guitar is set up personaly by Denny Zager Sr. Have never seen a better action on a guitar of any price.
The finsh, woods, fit, abalone inlays are all flawless.
This instument is a "MASTERPIECE"! A work of art. A feast for the eyes and ears.

Reliability/Durability : 10
I just received this guitar on Feb. 19th 2008 but by reputation and the quality of the product, I precict my grandson will be enjoying it after I'm long gone.
Don't need a backup with this guitar.

Customer Support : 10
I had numerous questions before and after receipt of the guitar. I never have had to wait over an hour for a positive response. Other companies need to take a que from this excellent companies customer service by Denny Zager Jr.
The warranty is for life.

Overall Rating : 10
I've been playing for about 30 years. I own a Tascam 4 trk, a DBX 166 Compressor/Limiter/Gate, a DBX 231 EQ, an Alesis MidiVerb4 signal processor for making home demos. A Carvin PA620 Amp and Speakers for performing in small churches.
If this guitar were stolen, I would immediately replace it with the same model.
I love everything about it and dislike nothing. I find myself opening the case sometimes hust to admire it's beauty. I have retirede my other guitars since receiving this one.My favorite feature is it's easy playability. I considered a Martin, Takamine, Gibson,and Taylor. I bought this because of all the raving reviews and testimonials and the price factor and am most happy with my choice.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 02/13/2008 at 03:39am by Robert Brace
Email: rpbsaw<at>aol dot com

Features : 9
Acoustic dreadnaught with venetian cutaway.Three piece back. Fishman onboard tuner and equalizer.Cedar top, rosewood sides and back.Gold sealed Grover tuners. Abolone inlay around the edges of the guitar face and sound hole.Tapered neck built to Denny Zager specs.

Sound : 10
The sound is very rich and full.The cedar top and rosewood back and sides really produces a mellow full bodied sound.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The Zager setup is the best I have played.I had several of my fellow guitar players play the Zad 80 CE and all were very taken by the ease
and playability of the guitar.None had heard of Zager before, so there were no preceived opinions.The action was effortless. I have played for hours and my hand did not tire.The guitar has a very fine finish.The fit of the neck to the body flows nicely.

Reliability/Durability : No Opinion
I believe the guitar will last for many years. I would take it to a gig without backup.The finish looks as if it would last with normal care.Only time will be the real test to reliability and durability. I haven't owned the guitar vety long, but the overall construction and finish leads me to believe it will last a very long time.

Customer Support : 10
The company support is second to none.I own a small business and wish I had a team of professionals like Zager Guitar.Dennis Zager who handles all online questions was just remarkable.I always had an answer to my inquiries within a half hour, even after normal business hours.When I made phone inquiries the staff was very friendly and helpful.If some could not answer a question they made sure someone got back to me that could.The no cost to you 100% money back guarantee was a first on me, with no cost to return the guitar for any reason.

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing guitar on and off for over 30 years.I have owned a Yamaha 160, several Carvins,Silvertone and Gibson guitars.The Zager right out of the box played easier than any of the other guitars I own.If the Zager were lost I certainly would buy another. In fact while at my local big box guitar store this afternoon I scored another Zager off the used guitar area.I bought the ZAD 50 CE
they had for sale.The overall appearance of the Zad 80 CE is very impressive.The gold hardware , cedar top and rosewood really presents itself well.The only minor thing I wished the guitar came with is a front strap mount.The rear strap mount is trick, it's also the connector for the amp cord.Fantastic value for the money.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 595.00
Submitted 02/11/2008 at 09:47pm by Fred Walsh

Features : 10
In 1972, I bought a Tama guitar (not very well known). It had excellent intonation and really good action which made it easy to play. I tried many other guitars but never found a reason to upgrade until I played a Zager that a friend of mine bought. That did it! After playing the same guitar for more than 35 years, I had to upgrade. My friend had a ZAD 50CE, but I figured this would be the last acoustic guitar I would ever buy, I went for the ZAD 80CE. I couldn't be happier. It's wonderful.

Sound : 10
What is so amazing about this guitar is the tonal quality and the volume it produces. It allows a person to strum and add emphasis where you want them and then go quiet in other spots allowing you to add emphasis and far more feeling to your music.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The Tama guitar I had was very easy to play. I had played Martins and Gibsons which didn't match the playability. The Zager was the first guitar I've played that surpassed my Tama.

Reliability/Durability : No Opinion
I've only owned the ZAD 80CE for a few days, so it's hard for me to comment on this. The only thing I wish they would do is install the strap button near the heal of the guitar. However their customer support and video showing how to mount the strap button were very good.

Customer Support : 10
I can't believe the customer support. I have never bought a product from anyone anywhere, even Walmart that support their product the way that Denny Zager supports his product. You can email or phone them almost any time of the day and you'll get a response within 2 hours. Unbelievable.

Overall Rating : 10
Although I've only owned this product for a few days, I couldn't be more impressed. I have never run across a company that is more customer oriented, but even more important, they produce a quality product at a price about 1/4 the price of a similar quality product. I have always wanted to own a Martin guitar. Now I own a guitar produced in a Martin factory, fine tuned to make it more playable and I got it for about 1/4 of the price.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 895
Submitted 02/11/2008 at 03:56pm by Ron Zahller
Email: ronz at plains<dot>net

Features : 10
ZAGER 80-CE GUITAR..MADE IN 2008, PURCHASED IN 2008
This is an acoustic/electric guitar manufactured by Zager.
Features solid cedar top, locking tuners, fishman electronics, rosewood back & sides, rosewood bridge, and rosewood fretboard.
( all specs available on Zager website ).

Sound : 10
I bought this as I play a lot of acoustic gigs, yet need the capability of amplification for some larger gigs. With my acoustics
( I have 3 others as well, a Fender, an Alvarez, and a Zager ZAD50 ) I play in praise band at church, as well as duets in which we do everything from Neil Young to Alan Jackson. The first gig I played with this ZAD-80CE was a Valentines Day death by chocolate thing, where it performed flawlessly.
I use a Fender Princeton amp to complement the guitar, and they seem to go together well. I never cranked the amp or guitar up super loud as I didn't want to blow eardrums out, however, at a nice medium volume no hum or noise present at all, and the on-board tuner is a great feature.
The Fishman electronics have a brightness setting, as well as bass, mid, treble and volume, consequently a great variety is available to you.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Anyone who owns a Zager will vouch for this..The factory set-up is PERFECT !!! This is my second Zager, and each has been flawless.
This ZAD-80CE has lots of inlay work, and it is gorgeous, and it is obvious a great deal of work has gone in to making this fit right.
Without trying to sound like a factory rep, I don't think you could find a flaw with a magnifying glass.

Reliability/Durability : 10
This guitar is extremely well built, the finish is high gloss, everything is rock solid. If it is anything like my ZAGER ZAD50 purchased in 8-05 and played hundreds of hours, both gigging and practicing, I would definitely say that YES...you can depend on it !
I never gig without a backup, not because the quality of the guitar, but say, even if a string breaks you can pick up your backup guitar and play without having to stop the show and re-string.

Customer Support : 10
This guitar comes with a lifetime warranty. I have not had any trouble with it. MY ZAD 50 had a slight problem once and I sent it to ZAGER for repair...they paid freight both ways, fixed the problem, while they had it they re-polished it, and I received it back in two days. Talking with them on the phone they were nothing but extremely courteous and helpful, in fact I was so impreesed I sent them a thank you ( something I have never done with any other company )

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing for over 40 years, and have quite a menagerie of guitars, both electric, and acoustic. Including 2 Fender Strats, a Fender Telecaster, a Les Paul, and a Carvin Bolt, a Fender 12 string acoustic/electric, a Fender 6 string acoustic, a Zager ZAD 50, and now the Zager ZAD-80CE
Were this stolen or lost I would buy another one before the ink on the police report was dry. The ease of playability is the biggest plus feature of the Zager. I have owned a Gibson Hummingbird, as well as played a lot of my colleagues Taylors and Martins, and other high end guitars..they are great guitars too, however, in all honesty, I can say the Zager can hold its own to any of them, surpassing many that cost double or more what the Zager cost.
Already owning a Zager ZAD50, I was already familiar with the quality, so I had absolutely no qualms about buying the ZAD-80CE.
In closing I would encourage anyone considering an acoustic, or acoustic/electric to give Zager a try..you won't be dissapointed.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 02/07/2008 at 07:31pm by woody

Features : 10
top components.solid body
easy to play
one of the best guitar s i ever came accross.

Sound : No Opinion
sound awsome bright and rich
you can play anything with it

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
great workmanship,
top finish

Reliability/Durability : 10
i have played several gigs using the zager and it is as good as i bought it

Customer Support : 10
top notch!!

Overall Rating : 10
this guitar provided me with top combination of quality,value for mone and service-highly recomended


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 800.00
Submitted 01/24/2008 at 10:18pm by bernie
Email: eflat1386 at aol<dot>com

Features : 10
very attractive guitar, nice custom appointments and woods.

Sound : 10

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
this guitar stays in tune forever. if it's in the case for a few days, it's still in tune when i pull it out.

Reliability/Durability : 10
high quality construction and appointments.

Customer Support : 10
The first guitar i received from them was destroyed by ups with a fork lift through box case and guitar neck. zager guitar had me select another guitar and even offered to upgrade my case at no extra charge for my inconvenience and expedited the shipping of new guitar prior to receiving the damaged unit.

Overall Rating : 10
wish i had started with this guitar, i'd have made rapid progress learning to play. very easy to play, great tone and i look forward to picking it up everyday.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 12/22/2007 at 10:13am by Scott H.

Features : 8
Transparent Gloss Finish
Dreadnought Cutaway Accoustic/Electric
Gold Grover Tuners
Including case, tools, case humidity gauge
Electronic Tuner/Equalizer
Abalone Inlay
Solid Cedar Top
Rosewood Back and Sides
Rosewood Fretboard

Sound : 9
I play primarily a fingerpicking folk and country style and the setup on the Zager fits this style very well. The low action, slightly wider string spacing and dead-on harmonics work extremely well.

The sound is rich, full and mellow with good clarity in the mids and highs.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The setup from the factory was flawless. I did have to adjust the tuning on the B and high E strings, but there was no string buzz and the action was low and very playable.

Reliability/Durability : 8
I am a living room and small jam session player, so I cannot comment on heavy duty use for this guitar, but it comes with a lifetime warranty and my customer service experience with the company has been unparalleled. I have every confidence that, should I have an issue with the guitar, Zager will make it right.

Customer Support : 10
I have not had to have the instrument repaired. However, the lifetime warranty and my customer service experience has been outstanding.

Overall Rating : 10
I played for over 20 years and then stopped. I have recently decided to take the guitar up again and I can already see that the setup on this guitar will ease my transition back into playing. The sound is fantastic and comparable to guitars costing many times what I paid for the ZAD-80. I played Gibsons, Taylors and Epiphones before purchasing this guitar.

Other guitars I have owned:
Gibson J-40
Gibson Hummingbird
Gibson Barney Kessel Jazz Guitar
Alvarez Classical
Gibson SG Standard
Antoniotsai Solid Body Electric (heavily modified with upgraded Grover tuners and new Humbucking Pickups)
Fender Jazz Bass
Original Tweed Fender Deluxe
Behringer V-Ampire LX 210 Modeling Amp


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 600.00
Submitted 12/17/2007 at 02:17am by DON MERKLEY

Features : 10

Sound : 10

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10

Reliability/Durability : No Opinion

Customer Support : 10

Overall Rating : 10
My baby, a Zager ZAG-80 arived one week after ordering, and what a joy! I've been playing guitars for about 50 years and picked up my 2 current old friends in Brazil 40 years ago: A DelVecchio classical for which I
built a new neck when It fretted out badly, and a Giannini 12 string,
beautiful Brazilian Rosewood. Both hard to Barre and since taking on a new guitar course I'm finally getting around to using the rest of the neck. I think I just gave myself the best boost I could in advancing
my technique by purchasing your guitar. Gave it a try out of the case
and it was instant bonding! It was as gorgeous as everyone else
described on your website. The rosewood 3 piece back and solid cedar top were perfectly finished. I've pulled down Taylors and Martins from the display in the stores just to see what a $3,000 guitar sounds and looks like, and as much as I drooled over these, I'm convinced this Zager is every bit as rich-sounding and well put-together as any I've seen.
Gonna have to re-learn to play the guitar without the "death grip" I've always used!

I bought an instrument which was discounted due to a "flaw" in the
cedar top, which is apparently a little spot of heartwood, darker than
the rest of the top. Just a beautiful little birthmark, marking it as
my unique guitar. The Polaroid that was tucked in my guitar strings
showing Dennis tuning it proved that he indeed did have my marked
guitar in his hands! Nice touch!
I'm totally impressed with your customer-centered approach to selling.
Better make lots more of these things, because the word is getting out!
> Don Merkley
> Salt Lake City



Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 12/09/2007 at 12:18am by Mike Pratt

Features : 9
This guitar has a beautiful gloss finish that is truely a work of art. The Zad-80CE is a dreadnought with a cutaway for easy fingering for the realy high notes. It has a rosewood peg style bridge with a transducer under the hand carved custom saddle. The nut is also been custom hand carved with a wider than standard with for larger fingers. The tuners are non-locking Grover Sealed. The neck is made from Rosewood and the frets are hand filed for the lowest string clearance with no buzz. The case is a standard wooden case with a digital humidity sensor. This guitar was made in the USA, 2007. There are 20 frets. It comes with a solid Cedar top with scalloped X bracing along with abalone inlay rosette and binding. The back and sides are Rosewood. It has a onboard equalizer and tuner by Fishman. There are four tone sliders and one volume slider. I give it a 9 only because I will have to install a second strap peg near the neck because it doesn't come with one.

Sound : 10
This guitar sounds as good if not better than my brother's High end Taylor. But for a several thousand less. I don't usually play through an amp but this guitar sounds great using chorus and reverb through my Fender Ultimate Chorus. I had to lower the volume on the guitar to iliminate the feed back when playing close in front of the amp. Also, by lowering the volume at the guitar I was able to lower the hand noise when sliding down the string. This guitar has a full range of sounds using the equalizer and sounds very rich. When played without an amp it is plenty loud and the tone blows you away. I can't think of a thing that I don't like about it.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
This guitar is custom set-up by a Luthier Denny Zager. He is known for his easy-play string science where he lowers the strings as low a possible by hand carving the nut and saddle while maintaining near perfect harmonics. He follows up by hand filing the frets to remove all string buzz. My guitar arrived in perfect condition and ready to play. Denny personnally checks the guitars prior to packing and it shows.

Reliability/Durability : 10
I just got this guitar and you can't be absolutely sure anything will not breakdown but, I don't see any reason that it would not last a life time. It comes with a life time warranty. The finish is very professionally done and it will last as long as the guitar is taken care of. The lone strap buttone is solid and I feel I can depend on this guitar. I always bring a back-up for a gig.

Customer Support : 10
Everything was perfect as Denny said it was and with the life time warranty and the word of the man that stands behind says enough. This is a family owned and run business and it lives on word of mouth. So it can't afford not to give the best support. I have inquired about getting a second guitar for my son and the comunication I have had with them is outstanding.

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing off and on for 37 years. I have owned mostly Fender guitars with my favorite one being a California made Stratocaster. This guitar was the one I learned on and it is special to me. I wish I had asked about a second guitar strap peg by the neck. No big deal because I think I can find a Luthier than can fix me up here in town. If this guitar was stolen I would indeed buy another one because I can't afford a Taylor. I love the deep sound it has and can't think of anything I hate about it. My favorite feature is the incredible ease in playing. My arthritis usually stops me from playing more than just a few minutes on my other dreadnoughts. Oh! I have given all my other dreadnoughts guitars away because after playing this one I will never play another production guitar. Except for my Fender Strat. My brother's Taylor has the name recognition but, I can't see or hear anything about it that my new Zad-80CE doesn't have except for the outragious price tag.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 12/03/2007 at 05:07pm by CHRIS WILLIAMS
Email: christopher<dot>williams<dot>pz4p at statefarm<dot>com

Features : 10
SOLID CEADAR TOP, ROSEWOOD BACK AND SIDES, HIGH GLOSS FINISH, THIS THING IS SO BEAUTIFUL TO SEE FOR THE MONEY YOU SPEND IT IS AMAZING THAT THERE ARE SUCH HONEST PEOPLE IN THE WORLD, WHO MAKE SUCH A GREAT GUITAR FOR A FRACTION OF THE PRICE YOU WOULD PAY FOR MCPHERESON,COLLINGS,MARTIN,TAYLOR,GUILDS,LARIVEE, ECT....

Sound : 10
IVE SPENT HOURS AND YEARS IN SEARCH OF THE PERFECT AXE. THIS ZAD 80 CE ENDED MY SEARCH.THIS GUITAR HAS SUCH A BALANCED SOUND COMING OUT ON ALL SIX STRINGS IT IS UNREAL. REAL PUNCHY BASS AND CLEAR CRISP TREBLE HIGH END. IVE USED IT IN THE STUDIO ON A FEW TRACKS AND GOT NOTHING BUT THE WARMEST TONE I COULD HAVE EVER HOPED FOR.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
THE ACTION WAS SET PERFECTLY FOR FINGERSTYLE PICKING AS WELL AS FLATPICKING OR STRUMMING. YOU NAME IT THIS GUITAR WONT LET YOU DOWN. NO FRETT BUZZ, NO SMASHING DOWN THE LIFE FORCE OUT OF YOUR HANDS, JUST SMOOTH GLIDING ACTION, PLAYS AS EASY AS MY ELECTRICS DO. ELECTRONICS ARE AWESOME WITH THE BUILT IN TUNER,FISHMAN CLEARWAVE 50 ELECTRONICS. I HAVE NO COMPLAINTS, JUST COMPLIMENTS!

Reliability/Durability : 10
IVE OWNED MINE FOR 7 MONTHS NOW AND PLAY IT EVERY WEDNESDAY AND SUNDAY LEADING WORSHIP AND IT HAS BEEN ONE SOLID GUITAR. IT OPENS UP NICELY I MEAN I CAN TELL IT SOUNDS EVEN BETTER THAN WHEN I FIRST RECEIVED IT. BEAUTIFUL HARDWARE SEALED GROVER TUNERS, BEATUIFUL ABILONE INLAY ON BINDING, THE OLNY AREA THAT COULD POSSIBLY BE DONE OF COURSE WITH PAYING ALOT MORE WOULD BE CUSTOM FRET INLAYS. I THINK IN ONE DECADE THIS GUITAR WILL BE A LIMITED EDITON HARD TO FIND MODEL THAT WILL BE COVETED FOR GENERATIONS TO COME.

Customer Support : 10
LIFETIME WARRANTY, FULL MONEY BACK GURANTEE, FREE ONLINE HELP VIDEOS TO HELP MAINTAIN AND GET BASIC INSTRUCTIONS TO PERSERVE THE INSTRUMENT, I MEAN WHO ELSE CAN EVEN COMPARE TO THESE THINGS FOR THE SAME PRICE? EVERYTIME I CALLED OR EMAILED ANSWERED WITHIN 10-15 MINUTES POLITELY WITHOUT SLEEK,DECEPTIVE SALES TECHNIGUES. THIS IS WHY I STILL HAVE HOPE FOR AMERICA BECAUSE OF HONEST, INNOVATIVE, OUTFITS LIKE ZAGER. THEY WERE THE MOST PLEASANT BUYING EXPERINCE I EVER HAD AND IM IN SALES.

Overall Rating : No Opinion
IVE BEEN PLAYING FOR 12 YEARS, BEEN IN BANDS, RECORDED ALBUMS, AND HAVE BOUGHT, SOLD, AND BOUGHT BACK MANY DREADNOUGHTS. IM NO WAY ASSOCIATED WITH ZAGER OR EVEN CARE IF THEY SUCCESS OR FAIL IN WHAT THEY DO. I AM PERSON WHO STUMBLED ACCROSS THEIR WEBSITE, BUT A GUITAR I WAS SKEPITCAL ABOUT BECAUSE WE ALL KNOW HOW IMPERSONAL ONLINE BUYING CAN BE, AND WHAT THEY SAY AND DO AND DELIVER ALL 3 COME TOGETHER IN THIS GUITAR. I CAN SAY THESE THINGS ARE ACCURATE AND TRUE BECAUSE I ACTUALLY OWN AND PLAY ONE.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 845
Submitted 11/09/2007 at 02:14pm by Don Manson
Email: bdevil55<at>hotmail dot com

Features : 10
Solid Cedar Top, Rosewood back and 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 tunig gears, Abalone inlay on ginding, abalone inlay rosette, tortoise shell pick gurad,

Sound : 10
Rich full sound. am using it as an acoustic mainly. Sound fills the room.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 9
The guitar arrived in perfect condition and in tune. I found no flaws in fit or finish.

Reliability/Durability : 10
Based on the condition as new, and after playing it for a few months, I believe it will last a long time. the hardware is excellent. Finish does not appear to be thin. I believe I can depend on the instrument.

Customer Support : 10
The customer service to date has been excellent. The warranty is lifetime, and they offer a 100% money back guarantee. I have had a few questions and they respond in a very timely manner. Zager Guitar is a family owned business since 1969 and I think their success is built on quality and service.

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing for a few months and have owned other guitars. If it were lost or stolen, I would buy another Zager. After shopping around, I believe it can't be matched for price, quality, and features. Favorite feature is the electronic tuner and the ease of changing strings. I compared the Zager to Martin and Taylor. For the quality, features, and price, I chose the Zager. You can find other guitars that are of higher quality but you will pay considerably more for them.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 900
Submitted 10/16/2007 at 03:55pm by Benjamin Tercero
Email: reaper_tercero at hotmail<dot>com

Features : 10
EZ-Play Zager ZAD-80CE Acoustic Electric $995
On sale $895...Limited time only



With all the attributes of the Zager ZAD-80, the ZAD-80CE Acoustic/Electric takes it one step further with a built in transducer and electronics package that allows it to be plugged into an amplifier and played like an electric. It has a venetian cutaway box that allows your left hand to slide down low for those hard to reach chords. The onboard electronics package with equalization gives you the ability to change the sound according to your playing style. It also has a built-in professional grade electronic tuner that allows you to tune your guitar in a fraction of the time that it takes using conventional tuning methods. Denny specially selected the electronics package used in the ZAD-80CE which is made by "Fishman." If you do your research you will find that Fishman electronics are used in only the highest grade guitars. Being an acoustic and electric the ZAD-80CE is like having two guitars in one.

Compare Guitars

- EZ-Play Modified
- Full Size Dreadnought
- Venetian Cutaway Design
- Solid Cedar Top
- Rosewood 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 on Binding
- Abalone Inlay Rosette
- Tortoise shell pick guard
- Genuine "Martin" Strings
- 100% money back guarantee
- Lifetime warranty



(straight from the website)

Sound : 10
Amazingly bright and loud! It sustains like a piano and the set up Denny does gives each string a perfect and melodic sound that blends uncomparably with itself. The only guitar I have played that sounds similar was a 4000 dollar Taylor at my local music store.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Action is perfect! I dont have weak fingers but this guitar immediately made me better at acoustic guitar. The neck is very thin compared to most which allows once impossible stretches for myself. All in all the finish is BEAUTIFUL!

Reliability/Durability : No Opinion
I have played 4 days a week with this guitar for a month now and have had no problems. I haven't had the guitar long enough to really review its durability. However I have a liftime warranty so I am in no way worried.

Customer Support : 10
The best I have ever experienced! Every question has been answered, every request granted. I always got a reply within 2 hours of emailing Denny.

Overall Rating : 10
This is the best guitar I have ever played end of discussion. I have read some really stupid reviews on it posted by people who have never even played the guitar! How do you review something you have never touched or heard? As a musician I am gonna recommend that you other guitarists open your mind. This company also provided the greatest customer service I have ever experienced. As for the guitar it is beautiful and I constantly get stopped after shows by people who ask where I got my guitar and where they can get one. They action is amazing, the finish beautiful, the pickup amazing, the frets smooth, the sound literally gave me chills the first time I played it. The set up is perfect! PERFECT!! And guess what! If you hate it they will give you a full refund shipping and all! Now only an idiot would overlook this offer. I had to try it and I'll admitt I was worried at first but now that I have it... Well I can't put it down.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 895
Submitted 09/21/2007 at 01:48pm by Mtpastor

Features : 10
I bought a Zager ZAD80-CE with the solid cedar top, Grover tuners, and the Fishman Clearwave 50 electronics. The built in tuner is especially handy. I also got a Martin hardshell case with it.

Sound : 9
Several years ago I paid $1500 for a used Guild D55 which blew me away when I first strummed it! Although this is not a Guild D55, it has the same piano like clarity and sustain that you would expect from a high end guitar. I paid alot less for this Zager guitar than my D55 which was well used and needed some attention from a Luthier after I bought it.

This Zager has a rich-full sound. Perfect for what I plan on using it for - leading worship at my church.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 9
The reviews I read said this was an easy guitar to play - it's true. I have played Guilds, Carvins, Taylors, Gibsons, and Martins and this Zager is by far the most effortless guitar I've played. Action is amazing and the attention to detail for a guitar in this price range is impressive.

Reliability/Durability : 9
Just got the guitar so I can't comment on durability but if I were to give it a rating based on the workmanship I see on it, I would give it a 9.

Customer Support : 10
You're not going to find better customer support anywhere. I am a pastor of a church and I have been inspired by how well I was treated from start to finish. I'd like to offer that kind of "customer service" to people who visit our church!

Overall Rating : 10
I've been playing for over 25 years -mostly in a church setting, and currently play a Guild and a Carvin regularly.

I was originally planning on buying a Taylor but found the cost for the higher end Taylors too much for my budget.

I would not hesitate to buy another Zager. I plan on recommending Zagers to anyone who is looking for a great guitar for a fraction of the price that the more popular manufacturers offer.

I took a chance after reading the reviews. I'm sure glad i did!


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 845
Submitted 09/17/2007 at 10:40pm by Don Manson
Email: bdevil55<at>hotmail dot com

Features : 10
I recently purchased a Zager Zag 80CE guitar. It is a beautiful instrument, plays with incredible sound, was very affordable, and is supported with excellent customer service and a web site of educational information and demonstrations that are invaluable. I would recommend this guitar and this company to anyone, unconditionally.

Sound : 10
Sound that equals or betters much more expensive intruments

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Fit and finish is impeccable. Came in tune with zero flaws.

Reliability/Durability : 10
All aspects of the instrument are first rate. Quality inspected and set up by Mr Zager prior to delivery

Customer Support : 10
Warranty includes 100% refund, no questions asked, and shipping paid if returned. this small company has honest reliable customer service with prompt response to questions or concerns.

Overall Rating : 10
I am a beginner. I would absolutely buy it again. Love the fit and finish and the EZ play setup.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 895
Submitted 08/29/2007 at 11:15am by A Gurney

Features : 10
venetian cutaway, Fishman electronics, cedar top, Grover sealed tuners, quality through out!!!

Sound : 10
Ive been playing for 25 years and have owned several acoustic electric guitars. Most have had a good sound plugged in but somewhat of a dead sound when just played with out the electronics. This guitar the Zager ZAD80ce was a huge suprise for me. An awesome punchy, bright, Rich tone. Excellent sustain for an acoustic guitar! With the oneboard eq many tones are possible of course. I play mainly alternative rock but many styles are possible with this guitar

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Action is the whole selling point of this guitar. i am not one to believe testimonials..becasue who are these people right? But if you listen to the testimonials on their site. Its true. A very easy guitar to play. I am very happy with the setup

Reliability/Durability : 10
Quality parts quality woods quality electronis...they have done all they can to make a top of the line guitar...SOLID!

Customer Support : 10
A family owned and operated business so their name is on the line. Customer support is excellent not only for help with a purchase but also for any issues that arise. I live in Canada and they do not ship outside of the USA but were able to ship to a relative in the USA. I was given a great discount on a guitar case because I explained about import taxes/duties etc.... When sent from my relative i was unfortunately given the wrong case I selected. Upon contacting them I was offered a refund on the case and keep it, or free guitar lessons for a year on their site to make up for the error. WOW! Both about $120 value. Any other company offer that? None that I know of. It was explained that because of the discount they gave me on the case it was likely assumed that I wanted a different case because my purchase price was much lower...regardless customer support is were Zager guitars shines...oh lifetime warranty too!

Overall Rating : 10
25 years playing. I have owned over 10 guitars during this time. This product is one of the best I own. I am very happy with it. I would buy again. I am not one to write testimonials but i am for this guitar..that says something. they offer an excellent guitar for an affordable price...cant beat it!


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 895.00
Submitted 08/28/2007 at 11:06am by Mike

Features : 10
My ZAD80CE is a full sized acoustic/electric dreadnought with a solid cedar top,rosewood back,sides,bridge and fretboard. It has a venetian style cutaway with 21 frets.It has a gloss finish. It has fishman electronics with onboard equalizer, onboard tuner, built in transducer. It has abalone inlays on rosette and binding. The tuners are sealed Grovers.

Sound : 9
The Zager has a rich, brilliant tone whether I have it plugged in or not. I use several different amps, an Ibanez Troubador acoustic amp, a Fender GDEC modeling amp, a Crate 60w. Any effects I use are generally on the Fender GDEC which there are quite a few. My styles vary from Beatles to Buffett, Traveling Wilbury's and Eagles and the Zager can handle them well. I really like using this guitar when I am working out new songs or checking tabs for correctness.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Here is where the Zager really shines, it has the best action I have found on any acoustic guitar, and I have tried many. This is what sold me on this guitar. The setup was perfect, the nut is hand carved to a lower and wider string stance, with no buzzes. I found no flaws at all, the rosewood is beautiful with a nice glossy finish.

Reliability/Durability : 9
I have owned this guitar for about a year and a half now and it has alot of miles on it and would still pass for new, other than for normal wear on the pickguard. The finish seems to be holding up very well. I depend on it daily and would and do gig it without another (acoustic)backup.

Customer Support : 10
I haven't had any problems with it to need repair. I have dealt with the company on some other things(fingerpicking lessons) and they were extremely good to deal with, in fact Dennis Jr. answered me on several occaisions within an hour or two. The warranty is a lifetime deal, as it should be.

Overall Rating : 9
I have been playing guitar over 15 years(I am a converted drummer!) I own a Gibson Les Paul, Fender American Strat, Epiphone Elitist Casino, Epiphone Sheraton II, Epiphone Hummigbird, Martin D12X1, Ibanez AEF37, Aria 12, Fender DGS16E, and this Zager ZAD80CE. If this guitar were lost I would immediately replace it with another one. I am very happy with this guitar's sound and overall quality and I would(and have)recommend it to others.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 895.00
Submitted 08/18/2007 at 06:13pm by Brett Cox
Email: brettcox01 at comcast<dot>net

Features : 10
EZ-Play Zager ZAD-80CE OM Acoustic Electric

Orchestra Model "OM" sized guitars are approximately 15% smaller than our full size guitars. They have a narrower waist which makes them sit lower in your lap and are easier to hold and get your arm around. The tone and pitch will match our full size models but volume will be approximately15% less because the sound box is 15% smaller. With all the attributes of the Zager ZAD-80, the ZAD-80CE Acoustic/Electric takes it one step further with a built in transducer and electronics package that allows it to be plugged into an amplifier and played like an electric. It has a venetian cutaway box that allows your left hand to slide down low for those hard to reach chords. The onboard electronics package with equalization gives you the ability to change the sound according to your playing style. It also has a built-in professional grade electronic tuner that allows you to tune your guitar in a fraction of the time that it takes using conventional tuning methods. Denny specially selected the electronics package used in the ZAD-80CE which is made by "Fishman." If you do your research you will find that Fishman electronics are used in only the highest grade guitars. Being an acoustic and electric the ZAD-80CE is like having two guitars in one.

- EZ-Play Modified
- Smaller Orchestra Size
- Venetian Cutaway Design
- Solid Cedar Top
- Rosewood 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 on Binding
- Abalone Inlay Rosette
- Tortoise Shell Pickguard
- Genuine "Martin" Strings
- 100% money back guarantee
- Lifetime warranty



Sound : 10
This guitar sounds as good if not better than any $2,500.00 guitar for under $1,000.00!!!
It is rich in tone both plugged in and unplugged.
The action is like butter!
The best guitar i own!

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Action like butter!
Finish: Unbelievable!!
Fishman Electronics: Need I say more???

Reliability/Durability : 10
Yes it is worthy of onstage play!
And thats not just a single opinion! 10 players played it last night and are ready to scrap there other guitars!!

Customer Support : 10
If you call.....They Answer!! Any questions?/ Answered!! Any problems?? Send it back, Because there the only company with a no BULLSHIT 100% Warrenty!!

Overall Rating : 10
Been playing for 23 years. And i have never been happier!
I would have had them install my strap peg. But after a call to them...they are sending me a free packet with instructions and hardware!!
If someone steals this guitar they will probably walk with a limp for the rest of there lives!!


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 08/08/2007 at 04:30pm by olman

Features : 10
A beautiful gloss finish. Dreadnaught cutaway. Rosewood bridge. Grover tuners Solid Cedar top. Fishmen clearwave %0 Equalizer W/ onboard tuner.

Sound : 10
Great warm sound, as expected from Cedar top & Rosewood back & sides. Depending on thickness of pick, sound can vary from soft and smooth, to outright loud. Nice clean tone, well articulated and eveen tone across the board

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
This is a beautifully assembled guitar. Noy a flaw can I find

Reliability/Durability : 10
I don`t know yet but appears to be verty solid yet lightweight.I expect it to last as well as it`s assembled. Lifetime warranty!!!!!

Customer Support : 10
Lifetime Warranty. Don`t need repairs, as it`s new. Setup perfectly,right out of the case.Emails answered promptly and all questions answered. Very friendly and concerned.

Overall Rating : 10
I`ve played for twenty years off & on. I absolutly love this guitar. It`s the easyest I`ve ever played, and is right up there in sound and appearence to some of the most expensive guitars made. And you can believe I`ve owned and still own some of the best.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 795
Submitted 07/24/2007 at 10:04am by Scotty

Features : 10
Zager EZ-Play modified system.Full sized dreadnaught cutaway design.It is a beautiful guitar with solid cedar top and rosewood back and sides,bridgeand fretboard.It has a Fishman Clear Wave 50 pickup system with built in transducer and on board equilizer and an electonic tuner that does a great job of fine tuning.I thought I knew how to tune a guitar until I used it.It really brings the maximum desired tone out.It has scalloped X-bracing,hand carved nut,saddle,hand filed frets,sealed gold colored Grover tuners.The face is protected with a tortoise shell pick guard and is beautifully accented with abalone inlay on binding and rosette.One of the biggest selling features for me is the 100% money back guarantee and lifetime warranty.Another major reason in buying this guitar is the EZ-play system.It has low action with no string buzz and I have played it a lot since I received it.No more sore fingers and less discomfort in my chord fingers from arthritis.Upper stap peg is not included with guitar and has to be purchased and added by owner.Zager web site offers a help available to owners. I think it would be a god idea to have these installed at the factory.

Sound : 10
I can't compare this guitar to the very expensive models.I have a 93 Martin D-1,and an early 70's Gibson SJ and Yamaha FG-300.The sound surpasses the Martin and Yamaha and is equal to if not better than the Gibson.It sounds rich and full from top to bottom with great sustain.Each note is clear.I have been playing mostly unplugged and generally use a thin flat pick.I play mostly country ,folk, and bluegrass gospel.I just purchased a Kustom Sienna 65 and the electronics sound very natural.I'm still experimenting to fine tune the sound I want but thus far am pleased.No instructions were included to assist in operating the Fishman equalizer but Zager's weg site does give a very good instructional video in operating the on board tuner and I feel confident Zager would assist if I have problems with the electronics.I believe the equilizer is based on person preference anyway.No big issue.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Low action,no buzzing.Beautiful woods,finish,and hardware.Looks and feels like a top of the line guitar to me.
P.S.This guitar was purchased at a factory discount due to slight finish flaw on the under side. It is barely noticeable and has to be viewed by holing it towards light.The flaws are clearly decribed and shown by pictures.I saved $100 by pruchasing this guitar.The discounts vary in price depending on the flaws which are only cosmetic.

Reliability/Durability : 10
Only time will tell.I see no reason why it will not stand the test of time.It has the lifetime warranty to back it up.

Customer Support : 10
Every question submitted to Zager was quickly answered via email.The support staff is very courteous,professional, and resonsive.Hope I never have any repairs to address and as stated previously,Zager guitars have a lifetime warranty for the original owners.

Overall Rating : 10
I've been playing guitar off and on for 42 years.I hadn't played on a regular basis for over 20 years.I started back playing after I retired last august.As mentioned earlier,I have three other acoustic guitars.I really love the ez playability and quality of sound from this guitar.I didn't feel like I could afford the really expensive upper end name brand guitars.I liked what I heard and read about Zagers and realized I could buy a good looking quality guitar direct from the factory before mark up.To my knowledge these guitars are not sold by dealers and this is why the savings are passed down to the consumer.With a satisfaction guarantee with all expenses reimbursed if not satisfied.I had nothing to lose.I'm very happy up to this point and hope I'll be saying the same thing 10 years from now.If my opinion or situation changes I will be happy to submit another review.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 07/20/2007 at 07:16pm by Norman C. Sukut

Features : 10
Acoustic Electric Cutaway Fine Satin Finish Abalone binding and rosette classy and subtle Grover Tuners 21 hand filed frets hardshell case included 2007 USA solid cedsr top Fishman ClearWave onboard electronics with tuner and eq

Sound : 9
good smooth sound good volume better that average when on board electronics are used through an amp or pa

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
excellent factory setup best I've had over 40 years of playing fine fit and finish

Reliability/Durability : No Opinion
Its seems fine but have only had it a month

Customer Support : 10
Best overall I've had in 40 years of playing Every email question answered promptly and cheerfully

Overall Rating : 9


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 900
Submitted 07/07/2007 at 02:54pm by Mike Gallagher

Features : 10
Fabulous guitar! Even my son's instructor who teaches music at San Diego State University and is an accomplished player and instructor was very impressed with it. We agreed that it played easier and sounded better than his $2000 Taylor. This guitar is everything and more that they claim it to be. The fishman electronics included with this model are the best as well.
It is hard to believe all the testimonies that praise this guitar maker so highly with all the false advertizing out there but in this case....believe it! Incredible customer service too. I also just signed my son up for Mr. Zagers on-line lessons. $99 for an entire year. I am currently paying $40/Hr. This company is a class act.
Sincerely,
Mike Gallagher

Sound : 10
Sounds better than the instructors $2000 Taylor.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Wow!
Plays like nothing else out there. We tried them all including $4500 guitars

Reliability/Durability : 10
Perfect for any gig. Light but beautifully constructed and with the fishman electronics on board....exceptional sound consistently

Customer Support : 10
This is where Zager really comes through. Send them an email and see the quick curteous response from Dennis Jr.

Overall Rating : 10
I only wish that other company's would follow in the Zagers footsteps. They are a hard act to follow.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 895.00
Submitted 06/14/2007 at 09:44am by Charles J. Williamson
Email: c_j_williamson<at>yahoo dot com

Features : 10
Finish - Lustrous. Body Style - Cutaway.

Sound : 10
Exquisite tonal qualities. Rich, full sound with excellent sustain.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Super action - after all, this is a Zager EZ Play guitar. Far from containing any flaws, this guitar was flawless. Everything perfectly setup at the factory.

Reliability/Durability : 10
The craftmanship on this guitar rivals that of Martin and Taylor. In fact, Zager does customizations of Martins to make the Martins easier to play.

Customer Support : 10
I have dealt with Zager Guitars, a family run business since 1969. They are friendly, very courteous and geniunely interested in helping you in any way they can. It refreshing to see that there are some businesses that still believe in winning your trust.

Overall Rating : 10
This guitar would easily cost $3000 or more if sold through retail channels. Dealing directly with the manufacturer cuts 2/3rds of the price off of retail. It may not have the brand name recognition of Martin or Taylor, but it certainly has the quality of workmanship, tonal quality, fine musical woods and support that rival, or even surpass, Martin and Taylor. No one would be disappointed with this Zager guitar. No One!


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 06/13/2007 at 05:54pm by J.R. Hoff
Email: msghoff at yahoo<dot>com

Features : 10
High gloss finish. Full size dreadnought with Venetian cutaway. It has sealed Grover tuning gears. The neck is made from rosewood. Accessories include a Martin case and extra set of Martin strings. This guitar was made in 2007. It has 21 frets. Solid cedar top and rosewood sides with abolone inlays. Has a Fishman ClearWave 50 equalizer/tuner.

Sound : 10
A beautiful, rich full sound perfect for my style of rythm.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
This guitar has the Zager EZ-Play modification which requires very little pressure on the strings. No buzzing. Very easy to play.

Reliability/Durability : 10
This guitar will be around when I pass on. It is built solid and will last many lifetimes.

Customer Support : 10
You cannot beat a Zager warranty...period! If you don't like it for any reason your money is refunded including shipping. How can you go wrong with that kind of warranty? You also receive personal emails from the Zager's informing you of your purchase and shipping information.

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing for over 30 years and this is without a doubt the best and easiest guitar I have ever played. I have owned Gibson's and a Fender Strat but none of my guitars have ever sounded as good as the Zager.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 900
Submitted 04/17/2007 at 02:52pm by Sam E

Features : 10
It's hard to describe all of this guitars features. It is not only beautiful and well made, but the playabilty is the best I have ever experienced. Try one yourself and see what I mean!

Sound : 10
Incredible sound and resonance. It has a a rich and full sound that covers all ranges.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The action is the best I've ever tried. Easy to finger and chord. It also has a rich and beautiful wood grain.

Reliability/Durability : 10
I believe this guitar will last a lifetime. It is an incredible accoustic that when electrified amplifies its' incredible sound.

Customer Support : 10
Service with this company is the most friendly and helpful I have experienced. They are there for me. That is one of the most important things to me.

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing for 35 years. I currently own a Gibson B-12,(my original guitar), and a Takamine. My Zager is the most playable and best value of the bunch, without a doubt. The action is better than the new Gibsons and Martins and Taylors I tried, and the sound is as good and better than most. What a VALUE!


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 04/15/2007 at 01:04am by les

Features : 10
I just recieved my ZAD-80CE I am more than pleased with my decision. Well since they offer a 100 percent money back guarentee I felt comfortable purchasing the guitar. Since I have carpal tunnel syndrone I needed a guitar that was easier on my old fingers. The thinner neck also allows my smallish hands to reach a little bit easier ...

Sound : No Opinion
Love the sound .. Its rich. I spend more than enough of my time at my local big box music store and play all the Martins and Taylors I know I may get some heat from you guys but I found the sound quality right up the with much higher priced guitars. I played every note on every fret and each note rings true .. not even a hint of a buzz

Action, Fit, & Finish : No Opinion
Actions is great .. no flaws that I can see. The inlay work is a very very nice touch ...

Reliability/Durability : 10
I know that this guitar will be very durable .. Its built very well ... They offer a 100 percent lifetime warrenty So I amd not too worried ..

Customer Support : No Opinion
I just got my Guitar so no problems as of yet .. I did have a very positive chat via phone when I was in the process of deciding if I wanted to purchase the guitar

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing awhile ...and I have played a few guitars in my time .. If I were to look for another guitar I would definitely buy a zager again ... Its a great guitar . quaility workmanship at a great price ...


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 645
Submitted 04/05/2007 at 11:03am by B. Fried

Features : No Opinion
This is a beautiful acoustic guitar, with a neck that has been especially modified for smaller hands to make playing a pleasure, rather than a pain.

Sound : 10
The sound is full and rich, perfect for folk music.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
All I had to do when it arrived was tune it and play it. Even after an hour it stayed in tune.

Reliability/Durability : No Opinion
Have no idea. I'm not a good enough musician to play for strangers.

Customer Support : 10
It comes with a lifetime warranty. They give you a free online guitar lesson and helpful tips about maintaining your guitar. Their attitude is one of developing a new friendship with someone who is interested in enjoying and taking good care of the beautiful instrument they have created. This is not a take-the-money-and run operation.

Overall Rating : 10
I've been playing on and off for 40 years. Some of the off periods were long, while I was busy being a single parent. But because it is beautiful to look at and a pleasure to play, I know I will now want to spend more time developing my ability. I started out on a classical Spanish guitar with steel strings. It was a monster to play. Bar chords were murder, so I had to modify them. I later bought a classical guitar with nylon strings. That spared my fingers some, but the bar chords were still difficult. Also, the strings were very far above the neck, so playing it was hard work. The narrower neck on the ZAD80 is encouraging me to restore the base notes to the bar chords. Once my calluses grow back, I want to enlarge my repetoire to play music with more complex chording, and to experiment with some classical music for guitar. In short, this instrument hadbrought the joy back into my guitar playing. It may have flaws that a more accomplished musician would find annoying, but it suits me perfectly.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 03/27/2007 at 08:54pm by Tim Burkey

Features : 9
All solid wood - Cedar top, rosewood back and sides. Grover gold tuners - Abalone inlay - Fishman electronics with tuner. Dreadnought, cutaway. Made in the USA. Easy Play

Sound : 9
Just play for personal entertainment. The sound is clear, crisp and full. Sound is equally as full when connected to the amp.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Guitar was set up perfectly from the factory with their "Easy Play" low action system. Found no flaws in this guitar.

Reliability/Durability : 9
I believe it will be very dependable and last many years if properly cared for. My friend plays the same guitar in a church band.

Customer Support : 10
This gutiar carries the same lifetime warranty as other top brand guitars. They have much customer service through their web site. Most questions are answered in a very short time. They are willing to help with all problems. It is a small family business and they have the time to personnly address any concerns. If not completely satisfied after the sale, they will reimburse all costs including the return shipping.

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing guitar for over 30 years. I started with a Silvertone, which I still have, Epiphone acoustic, Garrison G20ce. I like all for their various tones. I decided to order this guitar because of their Easy Play system, which is an easy playing guitar. The garrison has a little softer tone but a little hard to play. -- One would have to pay twice the price to get a guitar of this quality and sound. It was purchased directly form the factory. Super quick delivery. Is very comparable to my friends Taylor 714CE.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 03/18/2007 at 08:37pm by Dennis W.

Features : 10
the finih high gloss dreadnaught cut away nice rosewood fret board with fancy inlays, grover gold tuners, nice fishaman clearwave 50 preamp with tuner. solid cedar top rosewood sides and back, beautiful.

Sound : 10
great for all type music, acousticly or pluged in sounds amazing. fender acoustic amp and sound board mackie. rich , full delightful sound pluged in or not. I love the way it frets and the string spacing on it.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
set up is amazing , denny knows what he is doing when he does his eay playing paten on them. no flaws came tune up and ready to play.Play for hours without fatigue.

Reliability/Durability : 10
This guitar is built as good or better than any made. nice solid hardware finish great stap button solid i can depend on it and denny for any thing. alway gig with back up.

Customer Support : 10
lifetime warantee, great people to deal with .talked to them several times, could not ask for better support and perfossionalism

Overall Rating : 10
playin about 45 years, if stolen or lost diffently would want another one. I love the way it plays, sounds, and looks. I have a music shop so compared alot of different ones, and tell you this will bet most high end guitar without any problem. If you have not tried one you should.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 03/16/2007 at 08:04pm by guitar man

Features : 10
Made and purchased in 2006. Electric acoustic dreadnought, cutaway, rosewood back and sides, solid cedar top, abalone binding, abone around sound hole, gold Grover tuners, on-board eletronic tuner with equalizer.

Sound : 8
I mostly play unpluged and the sound is rich and full. The guitar produces brighter higher tones simular to the Taylor guitars.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Although I wanted a good looking guitar, I bought the guitar for the action and set up Zager advertized, and I wasnt disapointed. The guitar arrived flawless. The action is low. The neck is thin and it is a very easy guitar to play. Zager uses lighter bracing so he can get big sound with extra light strings. The extra light strings are easier to bend and therefore help make it easier to play.

Reliability/Durability : 9
I have owned many guitars and this guitar seems like it will be durable and reliable. Zager shipped a chrome and gold strap button to be installed by the user since there are many opinions as to the best place to have a strap button. I installed the gold button to match the gold tuners. Zager has a video at their site that recommends the button to be installed on the side above the neck, which I did. This location is perfect since it allows the guitar to fall back toward me verses away from me while playing. On other guitars I had, the manufacturer installed the button on the base of the neck near the side, but the button and strap would sometimes get in my way when playing around the cutaway

Customer Support : 10
Zager takes customer support to a new level. I later bought a case and UPS damaged it. Zager was so apologetic that they not only immediately replaced it, they gave me some small gifts to try to make up for any inconveniences. No other retailer would do something like this. I had some questions regarding the guitar and case which I e-mailed to them in the evenings and weekends and they always responed within a couple of hours-sometimes within a couple of minutes.

Overall Rating : 10
This guitar is abosulutly gorgeous. The detail and workmanship put in to this guitar is amazing. I really like the abalone binding, abone around sound hole. When in a well lighted room or on stage, the abalone captures the light and reflects it back. Alalone on a guitar really makes it look classy. I have played Taylor models 300,400,600,700 & 800 series which have a price tags between $2000-$3000 and this $750 Zager sounds as good as all of these Taylors. In my opinion the Zager looks a lot better and has a lot more detail than the Taylors. The action and set up on this guitar allows me to play a for a lot longer and offers more forgiveness when I dont get fingers placed perfectly on a fret. You cant go wrong doing business with Zager.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 03/02/2007 at 10:42pm by Scott Schaefer
Email: scottsantapaula at hotmail<dot>com

Features : 10
This guitar is finished natually and beaufully. It is a cutaway dreadnought with sealed grover tuners. I purchashed the wood case for $95 more with a built in humidity sensor. It is a solid cedar top with rosewood sides. It came with a Fishman Clear-Wave 50 3 band eq and built-in led tuner(bridge Pick-up). The bridge and neck are rosewood and have been modified for the lightest action with no buzz.

Sound : 9
There are no other guitars in this price range that sound this good. I have never beheld a guitar in any price range that plays as easily. With ultra light strings as the only option, I would say that the only weakness to this guitar is that it must be played moderately. Any acoustic player that is bound and determined to bang on the strings will be disappointed. Bottom line: A perfect beginner guitar that will guarantee continued practice and the expert player that tries it will probably soon leave his 'old favorite' in its case.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Set-up was perfect. Denny Zager is a master luthier who makes his "string science" an art form.

Reliability/Durability : 10
I installed a strap pin on the body according to Zager's instuction. The guitar seems to be built well. It is used as a full time guitar on a daily basis.

Customer Support : 10
The best company you'll ever deal with. You can always get someone with an answer onn the phone. They have fixed all my problems immediately. I've returned one without hassle.

Overall Rating : 10
I have bought 3 Zagers. Our church worship team plays one weekly. You won't regret a Zager purchase.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 895
Submitted 02/13/2007 at 01:49pm by Dault Roberts

Features : 10
This guitar is a dreadnaught cutaway body style, with abalone in-lay, grover sealed tuning gears, hand carver saddle and nut, hand filled frets, a Fishman electronics package, on board tuner, ect. It's decked out.

Sound : 10
I have only been playing guitar for about 4 years, I taught my self through looking up tabs. This guitar by far exceeds the player. It produces a rich, full sound that is bright and will fill a room. I rarely play it through an amp, simply because there is no need except special occasions. I have played a wide variety of music on this guitar, from Dave Mathews, classical, Mettalica, to some classic rock. Although obviously with an acoustic guitar you aren't gonna have the same sound as some one shredding an electric guitar, but the music still sounds great. I have yet to find a single thing about the Zager guitar that I do not like.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The guitar was designed and constructed impeccably. I picked it up out of the box, it was tuned perfectly and began to play Fleetwood Mac's Landslide, it sounds great. The action was amazing. The guitar contained one flaw, its makes you never want to pick up a different guitar again! My friends who have played it would rather play my guitar over any of theirs anyday.

Reliability/Durability : 10
Yes! I have only played live a handful of times mostly in from of smaller groups, but this guitar whether plugged in an amp or not, sounds amazing and will fill a room completely. The guitar seems to be like a tank. I'm a college student and thus, my guitars in the past have gotten nicks and srcatches very easily, this guitar is still flawless for the five months I have had it. The strap button is very solid. I would put my guitar up against any guitar in its class, and would absolutely be amazed if it was not without a doubt better.

Customer Support : 10
I had to adjust the truss rod recently, I had never done this before and didn't want to ruin my guitar. I e-mailed Denny Zager Jr., who within 10 minutes had sent a reply with step-by-step instructions on how to properly adjust a truss rod. I was amazed at the amazing speed inwhich he responded. It really makes you appreciate when an actual figure-head of a company personally replies to an e-mail.

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing guitar for about four years now and have previously owned two acoustic guitars. A Fender DG-10 NAT and an Ibanez PF15CE-BK-14-02. The Fender, the first guitar I had ever purchased, was a lower end cheaper Fender acoustic. For the money though I thought it was a good value. I still have it to this day. The Ibanez was a "middle of the road" electric/acoustic. It had good action and was considerably easier to play than the little Fender. Then this last fall I purchased my Zager. I literally picked it up out of the box, and started playing. I had heard about Zager alomost two years before purchasing it. I, along with my father, had researched many brands of guitars. My father probably spent a total of fifty or more hourse in all comparing guitars, reading reviews, and examining prices. Finally I decided on a Zager after one of his friends had bought one and said it was amazingly easy to play. With the craftsmanship that Denny Zager puts into his guitars, its no wonder why they are incredably easy to play. I will hopefully never have to buy another guitar again, but if for any reason I EVER have to buy another I can promise you it will be from Zager Guitars. I can honestly say after going from music store to music store and playing high-end Takamine, Fender, and Taylor guiatrs, I wouldn't trade my Zager for any of them. I would recommend buying a Zager to anyone thinking of purchasing a new guitar.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 745
Submitted 01/18/2007 at 01:59pm by Tim Schooos
Email: tko at starstream<dot>net

Features : 9
I just purchased an acoustic/electric guitar from Denny Zager. I'm extramely happy with the over-all guitar. I was a great guitar at a affordable price. It features are a jumbo style,solid spruce top, rosewood sides and back The neck was thin and the strings were a litter further apart which is just what I needed because of my type two muscular dystrophy. The finish was well done and it comes with Fishman electronics.

I also enjoyed the EZplay set up of the strings which keeps the strings closer to the frets making much easier on the fingers.

Sound : 10
Thke guitar really fits my style with is folk, country, rock, and blues. I haven't bought an amp yet but it will be a Fender AcousticSonic Jr. amp. The sound echoed from the jumbo body are full and rich almost like a classical guitar but yet it is capable of sounding bright.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 9
My guitar came without any flaws with a properly bookmatched top and properly fitted bridge. The action was smooth and easy to play (one of the strong points).

Reliability/Durability : 10
This guitar is solidly built and will withstand live performing. The hardware is solid. It comes with a lifetime guarantee on the craftsmanship.

Customer Support : 10
As I mentioned earlier it comes with a lifetime money back guarantee on the workmanship. My dealing with them have been professional and customer oriented.

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing for about thirty years. Besides the Zager I own a twelve string Gibson made in the sixty's as well as my first guitar with was a Kay. Actually I looked at a Martin acoustic/electric that was listed about three time the amount. The actual soond of the guitars were comparable while the electrionic of the martin. The Zager was a much better value.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 01/06/2007 at 12:56pm by Ricky
Email: rickyurgood<at>comcast dot net

Features : 10
Beautiful Solid Cedar Top, Incredible gloss finish, Body, Cutaway easy to slide your hand down to reach chords near the sound hole, Awesome Onboard electronics & EQ, Plus Tuner, This GUITAR is one of the best out there right now for the money,


Sound : 10

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
They Have this down to a Science, Its very easy to play , Great setup

Reliability/Durability : 10
LIFETIME WARRANTY, HOW CAN YOU GO WRONG

Customer Support : 10
THE BEST SUPPORT,
EMAIL OR CALL

They are right on it

Overall Rating : 10


Well I just wish they had this guitar when I started playing, Its so easy on the fingers , with bar chords and really all chords, I own 9 guitar 3 Acoustic & 6 Electrics , I play all different types music ,I always seem to be playing this guitar, its just so nice and easy to play , sounds are fantastic The only thing that I can say to all is if you don't try this before you buy a guitar, you just made a Big Big Mistake They offer 100% Money back How can you go wrong,


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 745
Submitted 12/28/2006 at 10:47pm by Chris Casbah

Features : 10
Top Notch for my book. Sure their are guys out there that want to pay 10K for an acoustic guitar to never play it...I'm not one of them. This guitar has a beautiful finish with amazing inlay work. Spurce solid top and Rosewood Back, sides, and bridge. This model has a top of the line Fishman. The looks honestly rivial (I think surpass) the asthetic beauty of the $3,500 Taylors. This is fun when I paid $745 and I'm looking forward to rubbing it in on my Taylor toting friends.

Sound : 10
I bought this guitar unheard, simply based on the stelar rating given by the reviews at harmony central. This is the smaller model so they claim that volume is reduced by about 15% over the Dred. All I know is that it is 10% louder than the jumbo I just sold. The sound is incrediable. Full and bright. If you shut your eyes you feel like you get the sound of your favorite accoustic guitar recording (or at least mine).

Action, Fit, & Finish : No Opinion
They claim it's easy to play and it is. Very easy to access all strings. My fingers are on the larger size and I have no problem making chords cleanly. Playing power cords on the acoustic guitar is something to behold. There is a difference, I swear. The action is outstanding.

Reliability/Durability : 10
The guitar is lighter than I expected, but seems very stable. It came perfectly in tune after beeing trucked cross country in very cold weather. These guys know what they are doing. Very nicley apointed. With the guarentee they offer, I have no concerns.

Customer Support : 10
The best of the best.

Overall Rating : 10
Stop thinking, just buy one.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 745.00
Submitted 11/08/2006 at 02:53pm by Mike Bossinger

Features : 10
Acoustic/electric model
Transparent finish, dreadnought body, gold grover tuners,Rosewood fretboard,2006, 21 frets,solid cedar top, fishman electronics with onboard tuner, 3 piece Rosewood body

Sound : 10
Suits my style perfectly, flat-picking and finger-style. I am currently using an Ibanez Troubadour Acoustic amp. Has a rich full tone which you can vary from bassy to bright. A very good sounding guitar.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The action is why I selected this brand. The Zager lives up to it's E-Z Play name. I have played many fine guitars and I rate this one with the best. With the hand modification that Zager does to his guitars you won't find a better action anywhere! I haven't! No flaws on the guitar whatsoever. Beautiful finish with inlaid abalone around outer edges and sound hole.

Reliability/Durability : 9
Absolutely will withstand a lot of playing. Very well made. I can depend on it.

Customer Support : 10
No repairs as yet. It has a full lifetime warranty. Everyone I have dealt with so far at Zager have been wonderful. They really care about their customer.

Overall Rating : 10
I've played off & on for about 20 yrs. I also own a Fender DG-16E-12 string, An Ibanez AW100, Ibanez AEF-37, An Aria 12 string, Gibson 6 string Electric. If stolen or lost I would absolutely replace it with another Zager. I love the ease of play and the rich full tone. I considered other more expensive makes such as Martin, Taylor, Washborn and Takemine. I tried them at local music store and I like the Zager best. I highly recommend this guitar to anyone looking for quality, sound and value. If you are just starting to play this guitar will encourage good practice habits as your fingers won't get as sore as with other guitars. I normally don't give out "10's" on product review, but I can't seem to find any faults with this guitar or their company. I am also going to take Zager's online lessons to better my playing. Check them out at www.zagerguitar.com and take time to read some testomonials there. You can hear Denny Zager play each of his models and hear their fantastic tone.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 10/29/2006 at 05:22pm by Doc

Features : 9
Solid cedaar top, rosewood back and sides, mahagony neck, abalone trim. 14 fret drednaught with gold Grover tuners.

Sound : 9
Clear, ringing tone with great sustain.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Low set-up by Zager's String Science. Extreely easy to play. No string buzz. Stays in tune up the neck. Top and sides vibrate nicely due to optimal brace shaping.

Reliability/Durability : 9
This is an extremely well-made and nicely finished instrument. Although mine is new, I would predict that it will hold up well over time becasue of it's ecelent contruction methods.

Customer Support : 10
Excellent customer support from this family-owned company. Service was efficient, detailed, and instrument was received in pristine condition before the expected delivery date.

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing guitar for about 45 years and have owned a lot of guitars over those years, from my first guitar from Mexico that fell apart in the Arizona summer to relatively high end instruments from Martin, Froggy Bottom, Goodall, and others. I currently have two other acoustics that retail for a total of about $11,500. They sound and play great but anyone would have a hard time telling them apart from the ZAD-80 without reading the labels. Since I got the ZAD-80 a week and a half ago I have had no interest in playing the other two although I have played every day. I am seriousy thinking about selling one of them.

Visually the ZAD-80 is gorgeous, well made, and has details that are simply exceptional, especialy for a guitar in this price range. The 3 piece rosewood back is book-matched. Overall it looks like a Martin D-35 with some D-45 trim. With phosphor bronze extra light strings the sound is bright and artiulate with sustain that seems to last forever.

Zagers are sold without cases but the company sells cases of various types to fit.



Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 750.00
Submitted 10/18/2006 at 12:10pm by Tom Ryan

Features : 9
This is a beautiful zager ZAD 80 CE. Solid cedar top and rosewood back sides and bridge. It has a handcarved saddle,nut andhand filed frets. The finish is absolutely perfect...no cracks crazing etc.
The onboard fishman electronics are the standard for higher priced guitars and are elegantly installed on my 80CE

Sound : 10
The sound is rich and full with outstanding sustain and tone. I prefer bluegrass and country and occasionally dabble in soft rock. I could believe the clear full sound produced throught my Fender amp.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
This has pro adjustments throughout the entire guitar. No faults that I can see anywhere.

Reliability/Durability : 10
Zager has a lifetime warranty on this guitar so my expectations could be nothing but a 10

Customer Support : No Opinion
It has taken me a long time to find the right guitar for me. I had at least 5 contacts directly with Dennis Zager JR. himself before I chose this guitar. Their customer support is by FAR better than the other guitar companies I worked with, no one was more responsive to ALL of my questions than Dennis Zager JR.

Overall Rating : 10
I started playing the guitar 41 years ago. Have left it for a long time and I am back in business again. I was real rusty but found the real true meaning of no more sore fingers!! What a joy to play. I have owned Gibson Les Paul Specialsolid body electric, Epiphone Acoustic and other guitars and this is the best of all of them.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 745
Submitted 10/15/2006 at 02:03am by Paul Whittle

Features : 10
2006 Acoustic / Electric.
- Natural Finish
- Solid Cedar Top
- Venetian cutaway box
- Rosewood back & sides
- Sealed "Grover" Tuning Gears
- Built in transducer
- Onboard Fishman Clearwave 50 electronics & EQ
- Onboard electronic tuner
- Guitar strap audio jack
- Full abalone inlay
- 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
- Made in Indonesia, hand modified in USA
- Twenty frets

Sound : No Opinion
It sounds great for the rock and folk styles I play, when I amplify it through my Crate GX 212 it also sounds great. The built-in EQ allows me to adjust between rich/full and brightsound.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The setup was excellent and action was superb, intonation was equal across the fretboard. I could find no flaws when I inspected it upon arrival.

Reliability/Durability : 10
The finish seems to look durable more so than any of my other acoustic guitars, only time will tell. I would use it at a gig without backup.

Customer Support : 10
Lifetime warranty. A descrepency during my purchase was resolved in about twenty minutes, great customer service!

Overall Rating : 10
I've been playing guitar for 37 years and have several other guitars acoustic and electric, a Fender F35 and a Jasmine by Takamine as well as a Gibson electric Guitar and electric Bass,
It is by far the best guitar I have ever owned or played!


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 600.00
Submitted 10/10/2006 at 04:55pm by Joe Caponero
Email: psrslot at yahoo<dot>com

Features : 10
Out Standing
Just a Beauitful Guitar..
Everyone that sees or holds it, says the same thing.
Looks can Kill ....

Sound : No Opinion
Unblievable !!!!!
Close your eyes and you can't tell it from a 2k Martin. I thing it even sounds better then the Martin.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Smooth as a baby's ass.. Really. Up and down, left to right.
It was set up by a Master !!!

Reliability/Durability : 10
This Guitar will be passed down for generations..
It was built to last.

Customer Support : 10
The best I ever had. Even befor I purchased one. I had all the help and knoledge to help me decide.
Warranty..LIFE TIME!!!

Overall Rating : 10
100 % PLUS !!!!
I was so Impressed that I am orderring another one for my wife..
This Guitar ranks with the 3k guitars...


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 725.00
Submitted 10/04/2006 at 04:53pm by Randy
Email: rtomlinson<at>tl-marketing dot com

Features : 10
The finish is transparent, and it is a cutaway, the neck back and sides are solid Rosewood, the top, I believe is Cedar. It has Fishman electronics, and is a beautiful hand crafted guitar.

Sound : 10
I have been playing about 3 yrs, however I play a lot, and this guitar really adds to my capabilities. It has a wonderful rich sound, and is really easy to play.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
I have small fingers, and the EZ play feature is perfect. It has a thing neck and is much easier to play than my other four guitars.

Reliability/Durability : 10
I have no reason to believe it wouldn't stand up to the rigors of live playing. I play in a church band and play it live every weekend.

Customer Support : 10
I have contacted the customer service team a couple of times just to get information. When I bought it they told me that it was too late to get it out that day, and then I got an email telling me that it was on the way.

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing 3 years, but I play a lot, I have owned this guitar a month and tonight I will put on my third set of strings.
This guitar is fabulous, I will always have at least one Zager guitar. I have recommended it to all my friends. It is better looking, better sounding, and easier to play, than my son's Taylor, and my playing buddy's Martin. I am not telling you this...that is what they said, and they both are fanatical about their guitars.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 10/03/2006 at 12:52pm by Gary Hoover

Features : 10
Beautiful finish, light as a feather, Grovers, outstanding acoustics either live or plugged in. Great hardshell case. Extra set of Martin strings.

Sound : 10
Jazz, acoustic rock, classical, folk. AMAZING sound projection!
Played through various amps and PA systems, no problems with any of them.
Built in EQ.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Out of the box, out of the case, played for hours, perfect from the start.

Reliability/Durability : 10
I have several Gibsons, a Guild, Epiphone and Ibanez acoustics, I would only get another Zager as a backup.

Customer Support : 10
Have not needed repair work, but they are very fast and friendly with email responses.

Overall Rating : 10
Playing for 40+ years. Own over 25 guitars - electric = Telecasters, Jazzmaster, Strat, Le Paul, Les Paul 7 string, Ibanez Artist, couple of Rickies, etc.; acoustic = couple of Gibson, a Guild D25, Epiphone 12 string, Ibanez 7 string, etc.

Love the action and sound of the Zager. Can play for hours with no hand cramping or wrist fatigue. Everyone loves the sound and projection.

Tried out several Martins, Guilds, Gibsons before buying the Zager.

Wish they would make a straight out electric guitar, too.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 745.00
Submitted 09/29/2006 at 02:55pm by Mike Oliver

Features : 10
Great Satin finish dreadnought cutaway made in the USA Lincoln Nebraska by the Zager Co. Grover tuners turn easy and hold the string action well. Neck is the same as full size guitar rosewood on the neck made on and fitted the zager fine tune way. My guitar was made 9/26/06 with 20 frets and solid cider top electronics is made by fishman.

Sound : 10
My music style is country and folk, and some blue grass music. also some blues. This equipment works well with all the aspects of what I want and needed. Easy to play easy on my fat fingers. The Sound is great.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The Zager is set with low action. and fine tuned to be that way on all 22 frets. The intonastion is set and the frets are worked to make it smooth and easy. I have played for up to four hours with 100% less finger pain. I have found no poor quality on any items on this zager guitar.

Reliability/Durability : 10
This guitar you can take anywhere and play live. The hardware is great, and will last. The finish on this will last nothing cheap very nice finish. The strap button is solid with nut and lock washer in side for lone and lasting tight fit. I would play this guitar with out a back up.

Customer Support : 10
No repair has had to be made. This guitar has a life time warranty.
The Zager Co has been great to work with they will help you out 24/ seven.

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing for about five years. I have a Tayor big baby,washburn hollow body,washburn acustic electric,Fender. Nothing I have been looking for the up scale guitar for about two years everthing was out of my price range. If I lost mine I would by another. I have looked at Talyors, Maritans, for a more upscale sound but the sound I wanted was more than I could or wanted to pay. I love the low action less finger pain and all the extras inlayed work and grover tuners and rose wood bridge, and just very nice look and finish.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 09/27/2006 at 12:09am by J.J.

Features : No Opinion

Sound : 10
I play light Christian rock usually play it out of the p a and thru a fender acoustic amp not noisy at all my settings vary beautiful sound I have no dislikes.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The action is perfect very comfortible to play I play for hours at a time with no problem. With my other acoustics I feel like my finger are going to bleed.

Reliability/Durability : 10
I play it live no problems sounds as good if not better than my brother's guitar and he spent double the money. I know it is going to last and I never take a back up if that was the case i would have returned it.

Customer Support : 10
Very friendly company answered every question and when I have a question I e mail tham and they are very Quick to respond try that with the big companies.

Overall Rating : 10
I"ve been playing for 7 years. I also own a vintage fender mustang,american strat big apple my favorite electric,les paul classic,and a fender mexican strat those are my electric.Acoustics are a yamaha,fender,gibson pioneer cutaway, and now my Zager is my favorite.Very rare do i play an electric now since we got a new guitar player for the youth.Now Im concentrating on acoustic thats why i bought my Zager.My fovorite features are the sound and the playability.I would replace it if stolen.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 695.00
Submitted 09/20/2006 at 09:52pm by Dennis Ford

Features : 10
Gloss finish, solid cedar top, rosewood back and sides, grover tuners.Dreadnought cut away, w/ fishman on board electronics, equalizer, built in transducer. mahogany neck w/ rosewood fretboard. full abalone inlay and rosette.Hand carved custom nut and saddle w/ rosewood bridge

Sound : 10
This guitar sounds awesome, it has a rich full sounds. No buzzing, love the elctronics. Hasn't been on stage yet but this weekend it will make its debut.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The action and fit on this guitar is flawless. The string science is nothing short of stupendous. Guitar was still in perfect tune after shipping. Best money I have ever spent!!

Reliability/Durability : 10
I have no doubt about this guitar will out last me and I hope my grandkids will enjoy it too.

Customer Support : 10
As I have only had this a short while I can't give an opinion as to repairs. Before purchasing had excellent comminacations with Denny Zager Jr. He was very helpfull and friendly. The warranty is lifetime in writing.

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing off and on for 40 years, This guitar has impressed me. I have compared it to a Martin Dove, Gibson J45,Taylor 814CE, Guild F65ce. This guitar's action and ease of play beats them all, and sounds equal to if not better than some. The finish is flawless as with the rest of the workmanship. I would buy this again, so far there hasn't been anything I don't love about this instrument.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 09/18/2006 at 10:42pm by Francis Lai

Features : No Opinion

Sound : 9
Zager has chosen to lower the strings closer to the fret board & I have to say this really helps the fingers & I don't have to press as hard to form chords as I had to with my previous guitars. With a wider stance of the strings there have created more space for my fingers, it really makes a BIG difference for me when it comes to especially the difficult chords. As this guitar has rosewood on back and sides, the sound produced is resonant, beautiful, stable, etc. This is my 2nd Zager guitar, first being the ZAD50CE; have to say I have yet to find something that I dislike.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 9
Again, really no complaints but compliments. Have been jamming on the guitar for a few weeks since it was delivered; yet to find any faulty parts.

Reliability/Durability : No Opinion

Customer Support : 10
This is my 2nd Zager guitar purchased in the last 6 months, I have done it not only because I really like their "modified" guitar but the 2nd most important factor is their customer service mindset. They have been most responsive to emails when I had questions and ready for recovery when a mistake is made. In the purchase of my first Zager guitar 6 months ago (ZAD50CE), the wrong colored guitar was delivered to me. When I informed them, they were quick to apologize and recover. I was offered 2 options, either to return guitar to them at their expense or to keep the guitar at a HUGE discount!! I kept the guitar. Not many companies have service recovery plans; they certainly seem to have! It was beyond my expectations.

Overall Rating : 9
I have been playing guitar for more than 20 years. Although I may not be a professional guitarist but have had professional voice training and I know I have very good ears. This ZAD80CE really sounds as good as many guitars that are above the $1000 range that I had played on. I have come to apprecaite Zager guitar more and more for the modification really does make playing alot easier; for skeptics you really must try it to believe it! There is only 1 wish I have for them, that one day they will be able to provide shipping services outside of USA.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 08/15/2006 at 07:37pm by gary in KC
Email: garyashley<at>sbcglobal dot net

Features : 10
I really like the looks of the guitar. Cedar top with Rosewood sides and back. I particulary like the abalone inlays in the rosette and along the purfling of the top. Finish is immaculate with no blemishes. Nice Fishman electronics. Makes it incredibly quick to change tunings on the guitar(have discovered drop D and DADGAD tuning for some new sounds).

Sound : 8
Sound is great. Has a good booming bass with really good tone, and nice sustain. Played a nice vintage Martin D28 the other day in a music store and it's sound isn't a great as that, but pretty darn good still.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
This is the main reason I chose a Zager - to get a good, easy to play setup on an acoustic. I wasn't at all disappointed either. Compared to several other guitars I've tried out (including new Martins) the action is fantastic and everything they claim on the website. String action is lower, more spread across the neck and easy to play. Makes it easy to sit and practice for a few hours without the pain I was getting from my Fender acoustic. The finish on the guitar was flawless.

Reliability/Durability : No Opinion
Hard to gauge this on a 3 month old guitar, but no problems so far and no real sign of any problems developing.

Customer Support : 10
Company is very responsive. I ordered the guitar and literally had it delivered the next day (didn't order overnight either). Just had a question via email and had it handled immediately.

Overall Rating : 10
I'm a newbie with guitars, just having taken it up. Been to the local guitar shop more times than I can count looking at acoustics and learning about them. My first guitar was a Fender - nice look, nice sound but an action that was incredibly painful to play. Looking at that guitar and my Zager side by side is enlightening. You can definitely tell how the action has been adjusted to make the Zager easier to play without any compromises to sound or playability. It's lived up to its claims and is a great deal. People have put Zager down because they think it's just an internet scam or come-on. But I'd buy another one in a second and have recommended them to friends.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 08/13/2006 at 09:40pm by Randy

Features : 10

Sound : 10
Great sound. Good harmonics and balance accross the whole range.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Good guitar. In tune. Stays in tune. No flaws.

Reliability/Durability : 10

Customer Support : No Opinion

Overall Rating : 10
Playing on and off for 40 years. I have an Epiphone E-Dot and a classical guitar. This fills my musical needs.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: USD 915
Submitted 07/12/2006 at 09:03am by Paul Maynard
Email: mmenator at gmail<dot>com

Features : No Opinion
I will comment more on this as I explore the electric effects of this instrument.

Sound : 10
I'm rating this guitar based on its use as an acoustic instrument.
I have yet to test its qualities as an electric guitar. I would prefer to make a brief summary in each category to avoid confusion.

I use several styles on the acoustic, straight blues picking, bluegrass flat picking and finger style.
I'll try not to sound too effusive, but the response of the instrument in the upper regions, due to the cutaway, were marvelous.
Finger picking and flat (double picking) were equally satisfying.

The sounds are bright and the volume and resonance surprised me.
I frequently use short slide notes, many hammer-ons and triplets. The sound quality exceeded what I have been experiencing from more expensive guitars that I have owned.
The only complaint I have in this catagory or any other is that it took a while to adjust to as I am used to a larger dreadnought neck.
Within the span of a few minutes I was producing sounds that I had stuggled for months to perfect on my other guitar with greater clarity and much brighter sound.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
In comparison to my other acoustic guitar, which I bought new, ( I will not mention the brand and slander the reputation of this fine company)I was equally impressed with the set-up.
I found no flaws in any of the areas mentioned above. I was more than surprised at the beauty of the finish.

I didn't care for the factory strings. I prefer a slightly better grade.

Reliability/Durability : 10
Nothings perfect. I plan to purchase another of these guitars as a back-up in the event a mishap occurs. The finish is solid and thick.
I wore the finish from my other guitar in an effort to get the volume I wanted from it. I don't anticipate this problem occuring with this instrument.

Customer Support : No Opinion
I'll respond in this catagory should this occur.

Overall Rating : 10
I don't plan to own any other guitar again. Yes, I intend to purchase another and perhaps several. I choose this one due to testimonials as I had become frustrated attempting to get sounds from my other instrument that I could not produce. I was producing them with the first hour of use with the Zager.
If I ever have to eat my words here, trust me I will eat humble pie and let you guys know.
I've played since I was 6 and I am now 52. I've owned a host of fine guitars. None have performed across the board straight from the factory as well as this one has.
As I have already mentioned I will not slander other guitar makers by mentioning those I have owned. There is no way I could give them this good of a review so I will not mention them.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: UNKNOWN
Submitted 07/10/2006 at 01:49am by Bernt Ersson

Features : 10

Sound : 9
RICH IN TONE, VERY EASILY PLAYED
Mostly used without amplifier.
150W EBS bass combo.
A little heavy.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Everything was 100% tops when this guitar was delivered.

Reliability/Durability : 10
Seems to be a really well built instrument, fabolous finish, beautiful! Rivals my wife...

Customer Support : 9
No need so far for any kind of service.Zager(seller) offers all money back refund and a free return at their cost if I wouldn?t have liked the guitar. I will not return it. I?ll keep it well guarded in my home for use at different gigs.
The only negative thing I have to mention about buying
the guitar is that I really do not understand why the Zagers will not ship internationally (since I live in Sweden I had the guitar sent to a friend in Florida who forwarded it). There?s no point in refusing this since the guitar is payed in advance and insured. Legally there is absolutely no problem with international shippings. I know, because I send books all over the world since I own a small publishing company. I wish the Zagers would reconsider this matter. These guitars are obviously worth to be known/sold even outside the USA.

Overall Rating : 9
I?ve played for 40 years, earlier professionally. I own 3 guitars, + two basses besides this new guitar.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $745
Submitted 07/03/2006 at 05:11pm by Sam Draper

Features : 9
Single cutaway dreadnought 20 frets
Solid cedar top
Fishman electronics and tuner
Rosewood back and sides
thin neck

Sound : 10
I play a wide variety of styles form jazz to country to rock.
Both acoutstically and through a p.a. it sounds great
The cedar top lends a warm sound. Very warm and sweet

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
I could not ifnd and flaws in fit or finish. It looks great. The action is great. It plays very easy.

Reliability/Durability : 9
It seems well made

Customer Support : 10
Prompt and outstanding customer support. Denny Zager himself does all of the work,

Overall Rating : 10
These guitars are everything Denny Zager says they are. They play great. Sound great and are an excellent value.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $745
Submitted 06/24/2006 at 06:57pm by Ed Drue

Features : 10
- Solid Cedar Top
- Venetian cutaway box
- Rosewood back & sides
- Sealed "Grover" Tuning Gears
- Built in transducer
- Onboard electronics & EQ
- Onboard electronic tuner
- Guitar strap audio jack
- Full abalone inlay
- 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

Sound : 10
Full rich tone. Resonant bass. Long sustains. A joy to listen to. However, I reserved judgement until I let my guitar teacher evaluate it. He is a very accomplished musician, with a collection of expensive guitars, so I was a little anxious to hand him this guitar. When he took it in his hands and started playing, he suddenly stopped, and all he could say was "Wow!" He absolutely loved it.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 9
Action, fit, and finish were A-1. Nothing to find fault with.

Reliability/Durability : 9
Very sturdy and solid. Absolutely dependable.

Customer Support : 10
Great customer support both by phone and email.

Overall Rating : No Opinion


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $745.00
Submitted 05/12/2006 at 04:48pm by "BIG" Pete Ferraro

Features : 10
FEATURES:10 "TOP NOTCH"
MODEL YEAR: MAY 2006. The Zager Guitar Company out of Lincoln, Nebraska is a family owned business who manufacture very high quality acoustic and acoustic/electric guitars. I purchased the Zager ZAD-80CE which is the "flagship model" that Zager produces.

The ZAD-80CE has the following features:

-Solid Top Cedar Full Size Acoustic/Electric Dreadnaught
-Venetian Cutaway Box - Hand carved custom nut
-Rosewood back & sides - Hand carved custom saddle
-20 custom filed frets - Hand filed frets
-Full abalone inlay - Scalloped X-bracing
- Abalone inlay rosette - Rosewood fret-board
- Gloss finish - Rosewood bridge
- Built in transducer - Sealed "Grover" Tuning Gears
- Onboard electronics & EQ - Onboard electronic tuner
- Tortoise shell pick guard - Guitar strap audio jack
- Genuine "Martin" strings
- Zager EZ-Play Modified Set-Up by Denny Zager Sr. 30+ yrs
experience as a luthier of fine acoustic instruments.
-Optional Zager Professional Hard Shell Molded Case w/ Digital
Humidity and Tempature Sensor List: $150.00 Cost:$125.00 (extra)-Great Fit and Finish to case "built like a tank" to protect your investment with onboard atmospheeric sensors to tell you how your "baby" is feeling ( i.e. hot, cold, cool, thirsty, sweaty, etc).

Now some of what I believe are the most important features from Zager, because quite honestly, initiallly, I wasn't satisfied with the first ZAD-80CE I received,due to a "minor (my words) surface scratch," near the strap audio jack. I am really picky about the look , as well as the sound on my guitars and a stickler for value and quality, no matter what what the price and "I certainly did not want a new guitar with even a minor a scratch...I wanted
"pristene." So, now the test for the Zager "satisfaction guarenteed pledge."

Well I'm here to tell you that Denny Sr., Dennis Jr. and the whole crew at Zager stepped up "Big Time!!!" I called with my problem and Zager said; "No Problem," we'll send you out a new ZAD-80CE the first thing Monday morning(I called Saturday), and it was on its way and it arrived within the next five days, due to shipping time from Nebraska to Rhode Island.

I can't say enough great things about the quality features of the instrument and the support and service I recieved. In fact, I still had the original guitar the whole time to play with and it was just today, a week after the second guitar arrived, that Dennis Jr. and Tony and I set-up the return of the first guitar, by UPS ground and UPS is comming to "my door" to pick-up the return guitar with "NO CHARGE TO ME!!!" Now, that's a feature of a very high quality, top notch organization and guitar company.


Sound : 10
Sound...OH, YEAH!!! THIS BABY GOT SOME SWEET< SWEET SOUND!!!

Great tone, excellent projection of the entire spectrum of sound available from the rosewood fretboard and solid ceadar top, with plenty of presence and volume unplugged!!! And when you plug into the "Fishman", well lets just say it... "Fishman electronics are used in only the highest grade guitars made...enough said!!!

What really cinched this guitar's sound excellence was the comment from my wife Annie, who has a great appreciation for fine sound in instruments and music in general, as a former Opera Mezzasuprano. Well, Annie, came into the back room from the front of the house to tell me how "sweet" my playing sounded. Now, I know my wife loves me but, it wasn't me who had changed my playing from one day to the next. Annie saw I was playing the Zager ZAD-80CE "unplugged" and she said that neither the 1989 Ovation Custom Legend nor the Epiphone 12 String sounded anywhere near as sweet as the Zager..."I kid you not...her words, not mine." But, I'll tell you something else, that one comment from "my biggest fan and yes, critic too" gave me a feeling of pride I have never felt in my playing in over 30+ years of playing and performing with the guitar!!! Yep, SOUNDS GREAT,,,YOU BETCHA!!! BTW, I played a few other high-end guitars around CT and RI between 5K & 8K, and the Zager ZAD-80CE held its own against giitars more than five times its value and all told I paid under a grand, for what I believe is as good or better an instrument as the Taylor's, Martin's, and/or Gibson's I tested costing thousands more.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
I know this sounds like I must be getting something for this evaluation, but that's just not the case...I'm just this impressed with this fine instrument Denny Zager is putting out there to make his statement about his acoustic guitars and the service and guarentee he puts behind each guitar that goes out the door.

Ok, here's the bottom line...other's have said it before me, but I'm here to tell everyone that this ZAD-80CE's action is just the best I've ever encountered in over thirty years of playing all types of guitars, both acoustic and electric, from the finest guitar makers on the planet. I can't say it any plainer than that!!! Denny Sr's "String Science and fine tuning set-up of each and every guitar that goes out the door is AWESOME!!! I'm looking at the fit and finish because of the "minor" scratch problem I had with the first guitar to make sure everything is perfect and after the visual and tactile inspection it's time to tune it and play it, which is what I did next. Well, I'm looking at how low the action is and I'm thinking, "it's gonna buzz its just too low..." so I playing very lightly, and gentle like with open chords near the head stock...no buzz, just really sweet mellow tone which is crystal clear. Then I fugure lets see what happens with "Blackbird" just keeps on playing and sounding wonderful, (this is where Annie cane in), then I figure I gotta play some Robert Johnson to see the soul and what this guitar really has and now, I'm not the worst player in the world and I'm sure not the best picker either but this guitar is making music I have never heard come from my instrument. Power when you want it, subtle when you need it, and sweet(I know, I know...I must have said sweet about a billion times but folks, it is, what it is!!!) SWEET!!!

Reliability/Durability : No Opinion
You know, this is the real test that Zager has to pass in my opinion. Now, I know on the website at www.zagerguitar.com it states, "E-Z Play Guitars - On-Line Video Lessons - Since 1969", but I've only just found out about Zager Guitar's making instruments of some acclaim since 2005. So, I really cannot comment yet on how reliable/durable the ZAD-80CE is or will be, YET!!!

That said, I have owned and played what I consider, some pretty good guitars in my "Ovation Custom Legend" and my "Epiphone 12 String" and I've owned both since the late 80's and mid-80's respectively , as well as, a Fender Strat since the early 70's, so I buy and keep my guitars in great shape because I was taught a long time ago by a well respected blues guitarist and by a few of my older friends who play, and what they have shared with me is that a great guitar, will sound better and better the more you play it. Especially, if you take care of your instrument like it was your sister, or your mother, or grandmother. So, if you own what you consider a fine instrument, albeit a new model, of which you love the sound, taken care of the proper way your instrument should wear well and reward you with years of fine companionship. You know all great instrument makers of which I've mentioned above, began life as an unknow and today some are real classic guitars. So, from my point of view, the measure of an instruments Reliability/Durability begins in the workmanship on the inside of a new instrument, and from what I have seen and heard from Zager so far, is a fine beginning of a clean, honest, instrument manufaturer providing a finely crafted, very fairly priced product of quality, that hopefully for us Zager guitar owners, stand the test of time in the years to come.


Customer Support : 10
WOW, as you've read above I can't say enough good things about the way Zager Guitar treated me because of my discontentment (for cosmetic reasons, not acoustic reasons)of the first ZAD-80CE. Zager was right there for me, no hassle's, no problems, no questions, they said, "if you don't like it, we'll replace it or refund my money...my choice, that's it. They do what they say, plain and simple...their not happy, unless and until, you're happy. They treated me like I owned the company, not like I was a nobody, which, I got to tell you, felt really, really, good.

Overall Rating : 10
DUH!!! Just the best looking & sounding guitar for its price range...oh, sorry, I mean, "for any price range!!!! OK, Sorry Guy's and Gal's...SWEET!!!!!!!!


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $745
Submitted 04/22/2006 at 09:47am by Mark Porter
Email: footballref04 at yahoo<dot>com

Features : 10
Features are as advertised with beautiful craftmanship! Abalone inlay combined with the rosewood fret-board and solid cedar top are all well designed and crafted.

Sound : 10
The cedar top makes a very "warm" tone which is appealing to my acoustic playing abilities and tastes. I especially enjoy the Fishman Clear Wave 50 electronic package with the built-in tuner which has performed admirably.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The "set-up" on this Zagar is as good as advertised! Unbelievable playability for a finger-style guitarist like myself.

Reliability/Durability : 10
I would certainly have no second thoughts about using this guitar on a gig without a backup. Until it proves me wrong, I'm a firm believer in the quality of this guitar.

Customer Support : 10
The strength of Zagar continues to be it's Customer Support. Upon receiving my guitar, I plugged it into my amp and found that there was a problem with a connection somewhere. Zagar guitars was extremely supportive and was willing to do whatever it took to fix or resolve the problem. Well, it turned out to be "my" cord and was not a problem of the guitar! But the reaction and response from Zagar was impressive and confirmed my high opinion of the company!

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing for approximately 10 years seriously and this is my first upscale guitar. I literally went to every guitar store and played every high end guitar I could find. There is no doubt that this Zagar matches up equally well with any Taylor, Martin or Takemine. I am truly pleased with my guitar!


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $745.00
Submitted 04/14/2006 at 01:53pm by Barry

Features : 10
2006 Acoustic / Electric.
- Solid Cedar Top
- Venetian cutaway box
- Rosewood back & sides
- Sealed "Grover" Tuning Gears
- Built in transducer
- Onboard electronics & EQ
- Onboard electronic tuner
- Guitar strap audio jack
- Full abalone inlay
- 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

Sound : 9
Guitars intonation is excellent. I describe the sound as crisp, bright but very warm.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 9
Action is incredibly low, no visible flaws. Very nice fit.

Reliability/Durability : 9
I wouldn't set the guitar on fire during a stage performance, but its as solid as any acoustic, a little heavier and sturdier than most.

Customer Support : 10
It shipped the day I ordered it. I had a valid UPS tracking number within 4 hours of ordering, it came when promised, well packaged and in perfect condition.

Their web site is very informative and I think they are very genuinely concerned about their customer's experience.

Overall Rating : 10
Generally played a Taylor Big Baby most frequently before this purchase. Unfortunately for that guitar, it doesn't even come close to the sound and playability of the Zager. I honestly can't say a thing against the Zager, it is the easiest, best sounding guitar I've ever owned, period.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $745
Submitted 03/28/2006 at 08:09am by Mark Caron
Email: mcaron1<at>cox dot net

Features : 10
Made in 2006, this solid cedar top and solid rosewood backed acoustic is a marvel to behold. When you first take it out of the box, you can't help but wonder if someon in shipping screwed up and sent you a much nicer guitar than the one you ordered. The fit and finish compare to a high end Martin, and the choice of electronics and tuners are top flight all the way. If that is not enough, look for a few extras tossed in the box, at Zagers expense.

Sound : 10
The tone on this guitar is nothing short of a joy to hear. My music teacher has a $3000 Martin, and compared the tone and range in the same arena as his Martin. Rich, Full sound that resonates through the room and touches not only the audience, but the player as well.

There are no negatives to this guitar

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Out of the box and ready to play, the ZAD 80CE is a racehorse waiting at the gate. From the novice to the skilled veteran, everyone is going to like this guitar. Add to the fact that a trained luthier like Denny Zager Sr, personally inspects every guitar before it recieves his OK and better yet, his signature, what more can you ask for?

Reliability/Durability : 10
The Zad 80CE is nothing short of an heirloom, waiting to be cherished by the current player, and looked on with hope from the next generation who hopes to play it. I am 42 and know that this guitar will be the last I purchase foe a long while, and know that it will be as clean and crisp when my grandson is ready to start playing.

Customer Support : 10
This is a subect near and dear to my heart. As a business owner, I treat my customers the way I would like to be treated. You can say that the customer service was great at Zager, but that praise is not even in the ballpark to being correct. From the countless questions that Tony answered before my purchase, to the fact that the owner and his son are just a phone call away if you need them, the customer service at Zager is what other guitar makers should strive for.

Overall Rating : 10
This guitar is a blessing for the new player and a ace in the hole for the veteran. I have been playing a short time, but this guitar will help me reach my goals much faster, and with a feeling of pride every time I see it or play it.

I had the chance to buy any guitar I wanted, price was not an issue. I purchased the Zager because it was the finest guitar I have ever played, bar none.

Don't think twice about purchasing a Zager, because someone else will beat you to it and you might have to wait to get yours!


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $745
Submitted 03/24/2006 at 02:38pm by tommyp7

Features : 10
A 2006 ZAD 80 CE. Solid cedar top, rosewood back, sides and fretboard. Fishman tuner/pick up. Single cutaway. Gold Gover tuners, with Zager hard case with humidity sensor. Thin neck but solid!

Sound : 10
Without question, above and beyond any guitar in the $800 to $1800 range. No exageration. The cedar is high quality and produces a warm clean sound.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Well here is where the Zager line shines. Using Denny's Sting Science, he is able to get very low action without fret buzz and with little to no volume loss. Truly amazing! Without question, the set up and action on this guitar are better than ANY other guitar I have played.

Reliability/Durability : 10
I don't gig anymore but would have no worries about playing out with this one. It feels solid and considering that it comes with a lifetime 100% warranty, it must be well built

Customer Support : 10
These guys are great. Denny Jr answers your questions quickly and honestly. The fact that they give a 100% lifetime guarantee also says a lot about the Zager company and family.

Overall Rating : 10
There will be many who doubt this, but the Zager line is of better quality and way better value than any Taylor or Gibson I have owned or played. It sounds better and plays better. Trust the ratings, try a Zager. You have nothing to lose.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: N/A
Submitted 03/16/2006 at 06:06am by Doug S
Email: dogcrateman<at>yahoo dot com

Features : 10
Tons of features is correct

Sound : 10
Rich ,full sound says it all

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Personal touch goes a long way.Superior Craftsmanship

Reliability/Durability : 10
Rock solid

Customer Support : 10
Once again a 10 for a rating.This is big with Zager, you can just fill it. The type, a customer needs to fill.Very professional operation

Overall Rating : 10
Did alot of research on all makes(brands).You just can't beat this company in any catagory. Price,Craftsmanship, Customer Service.Should have bought sooner.Zager Company came highly recommended, and I am glad I listened to my superiors.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $745
Submitted 03/14/2006 at 05:41pm by Gordon
Email: gordonondis at gmail<dot>com

Features : 10
2006 acoustic
- Venetian cutaway box
- Rosewood back & sides
- Sealed "Grover" Tuning Gears
- Built in transducer
- Onboard electronics & EQ
- Onboard electronic tuner
- Guitar strap audio jack
- Full abalone inlay
- 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
I play jazz to country and find the sound on this guitar to be very balanced. Crisp highs, solid middles and clear lows.

I've yet to record with it but look forward to some studio time in the near future.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Everything was perfect. As advertised, it is indeed easy to play.

The finish is nearly flawless. After much searching I found a small scratch in the fretboard. However I won't return it because, honestly, I don't want to be without it for however long it takes to get a replacement.

Reliability/Durability : No Opinion
Seems solid, but time will tell. Anyway, lifetime guarantee ...

Customer Support : 10
I can't say enough about these guys -- they are responsive and friendly. I NEVER thought I'd buy a guitar without having played it first, but the 100% unconditional moneyback guarantee (including shipping) and the fabulous reviews (some posted here)convinced me to take a chance.

Overall Rating : 10
I've been playing for 30 years. I've owned a Gibson ES-345, a J-50, among others. This is the best sounding guitar with the lowest action of any acoustic I've ever played.

I read above that really glowing reviews won't get published. I hope this one makes it because this guitar is a great deal.

I plan to buy one for each of my kids when they'e old enough to play.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $745
Submitted 03/05/2006 at 09:46pm by Jerry Hudgins

Features : 10
I bought my ZAD80CE on the 10th of January, 2006 This is a full sized dreadnought with Fishman Electronics, It is a cutaway with Mahogany neck,Gold sealed Grover tuners,solid rosewood back and sides with solid Cedear Top. What a beauty this guitar is!! I also bought the Zager hard shell molded case. I have owned guitars and played off and on for some 40 odd years now. The very best guitar I ever owned until now was a Martin D-28. This ZAD80CE is bilt as good as the Martin and even more beautiful when it comes to looks. The sound is as good as the Martin, for a lot less money. I Paid $745 for the ZAD80 and well over $2,800.00 for the Martin, back in 1996. I bought a Epiphone DR500RA, the same day I bought my ZAD80. It has been in the shop from day 2, because the bridge is raseing from the body and the Nut is moving because it was never glued down. I paid $1,000.00 dollars for it on sale. It list for $1,665.00 and it don't come close to the looks of my ZAD!!!!

Sound : 10
I play a lot of old Country clasics and Gospel. It is great for finger picking or hard picking. I bought a cheap amp for now . It is an Epiphone Value special, but for playing around the house it is a great setup. It has unbleaveable sound. The only thing that might sound better would be the Martin D-45V, but the sound would be close. However, if I could put the fishmen Arua system in the ZAD, I think it would beat even the D-45V!

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The guitar came ready to play. It has the lowest action I have ever seen and it is so easy to play. The Fishman pickup is perfect for this guitar. I could not find one flaw on this guitar. It looks like someone spent hours and hours just polishing the wood on this guitar. It is like looking into a mirrow!!The only other guitar that I have seen that comes close, as for as looks, is the Martin, D-100.

Reliability/Durability : 10
I would love to take this guitar on stage. This guitar is the best built guitar that I have ever seen! I know Grover tuners are amung the very best and I know they will stand up under the worst condutions, The finish is the best that I have ever seen. I know it will out last me! It only has one strap button now but I intend to put another one on about 0ne inch from the neck hell and one inch down from the top so you can pull the guitar into your gut as you should. I know that I can depend on this guitar as long as I do not abuse it. No I would not go to a gig with out back up. You' never know when you are going to break a string and there is not time to restring during a show!!!

Customer Support : 10
The Zager, family knows how to run a busness. They are very honest people!!! I thought that I had a Problem the first day received my guitar, The cover paper that is glued to the pick gard had came loose and had worked it's way up under the strings by the saddle. I did not see it and when I strummed it, it sounded very bad. I call Zager, guitar and talked to Dennis Jr. He was ready and willing to send me another guitar even before sending mine back. What a nice bunch of people they are. I just happen to notice the papper while I was talking to him. I removed the papper and everything was fine. I would sure like to see other businesses run like Danny Zager, runs his!!Danny Zagger, has something that you' don't see much any more and that is Integrity!!!!!!Something he has taught his whole family. Also the Zager, guitar has a life time warenty. That is something that not even CF Martin has. Martin, only has a limited life time warent!!

Overall Rating : 10
I have been Playing off and on for over 40 years. If this guitar was stolen I would replace it with one just like it! I love everything about this guitar! I can not find anything that I don't like about the guitar. My favorite thing about the guitar is first the sound and then it's looks!!!If the wood was just a little warmer, I woul sleep with it!!! I compair this wit a good Martin, but I think my Zad looks much Better. I would trade straight across for a D-45V, but nothen else. I chose the Zager, because what Danny, said about it made sence and I wanted to give it a try!! If anyone would like to talk to me about this guitar, You' can call me, Jerry Hudgins, (406) 676-2261 or e-mail me at j_hud@hotmail.com or write me at 1380 North Foothills Dr, Ronan, Montana 59864. I am not affilated with the Zagers an anyway, but I know that they are honest people and I won't to share my knowledge of this guitar with anyone who wont's to know about Zager guitars!!!


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $745
Submitted 03/05/2006 at 05:11pm by playmakeram

Features : 10
Made yr 2006...Hand made.
Solid Cedar Top, venetian cutaway box, rosewood back and sides, electronic EQ and tuner etc etc.
Humidifier(I bought the case too), another set of new martin strings, T-shirt

Sound : 10
I play contemporary worship songs. This guitar is perfect.

Likes: Warm, rich and even sound that just touches my heart everytime I play.

Dislikes: If you find one out, let me know....=)

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
everything was spit clean and just beautiful...

Reliability/Durability : 10
Oh yes, I believe this guitar is perfect for live playing and I think I can use this guitar forever!! I mean, all of our praise members complimented how warm and beautiful it sounds. God will be more pleased too. You know what, I might as well as get another one in the future...probably the smaller version (OM size).

Customer Support : 10
They are very caring, helpful and professional. They always responded within a few hours!

Overall Rating : 10
1. I am 24 and I played and led worship songs all my life. I own an ovation guitar....but poor thing, now I only use it for practise in my room.
2. Believe me that I am a very picky person when it comes to shopping. Every question that I had were answered clearly.
3. Well, let's just say that nobody is going to steal my Zager 80CE!!! But yes, I'll buy the same one again and again until all the robbers are caught =).
4. The guitar is all about the sound. Sounds great and it's so easy on your fingers which makes easy to play.
5. I've compared with Martin, Taylor, Ovation(which i have), LOG, John K, Seagull, and Alvarez. I chose Zager because of the sound, price and the features.
7. I wish it had erm..........can't think of one.
8. "Buy it, try it, and believe it."


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $745
Submitted 03/03/2006 at 08:04pm by Robert

Features : 10
Has all the important features I look for in a quality accoustic guitar. It has the feel of a quality instrument. You know the feeling when you pick up a guitar and it JUST FEELS GREAT. The Zager ZAD 80CE is exactly that kind of guitar. Mine came with a beautifull cedar top that has an unusual aged look, similiar to how an expensive french polished guitar ages. The sides are a gorgeous rosewood with plenty of wood grain. The fretboard is a very smooth rich looking rosewood. The guitar has stunning abalone inlay usually found on guitars several times the price of this one. It appears that great attention was given to the cosmetic detail which includes the binding and the perfectly finished frets. I usually buy an accoustic without much concern for the electronics due to the fact when I record I mike the guitar, however, the onboard electronics are an added plus in addition to the built in tuner. This guitar begs the question: Why are the big brand name guitars unable to duplicate or even surpass what a small company like Zager has been able to do at such a modest cost?

Sound : 10
I play a variety of music ranging from blues to jazz, classic rock et cetra. This guitar handles all these genres. The main thing I noticed when I first started to play was how each note in each chord articulated so well. I cannot stress enough how enjoyable it is to have an instrument so responsive. The other thing that amazed me was the guitar played EXTREMELY well right out of the box! I played it for 2 hours and it never had to re-tune it! The action is low which allows for fast single string playing. The fretboard is consistant from low to high registers. It comes with Martin 10 guage strings which suit my style perfectly. Some players may want heavier strings but the low guage strings do not seem to affect the volume. I really like this guitar for playability, the fast action neck and the quality of sound.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
O'k, it may seem like I'm going overboard with praise for this guitar. In defense of this praise, let me share that I have owned Martin's, Taylor's and other "high end" accoustics. The Zager "stunned" me in that all my other accoustics took some tweaking (adjusting the truss rod, filing the bridge to lower the action et cetra.), however, OUT OF THE BOX this guitar was set up perfectly! I judge a guitar on it's ability to "speak to me and allow new ideas to flow creatively". In my first 2 hours of playing the Zager, I was coming up with a lot of new creative ideas. The Zager and I certainly bonded. That is why I am writing this review. I have never felt compelled to write a review before. However, for less than $800, I feel I have a guitar worthy to stand up to any other brand out there regardless of price.

Reliability/Durability : 9
Time will tell as to durability. Some of the most expensive guitars can sometimes be the most fragile. The Zager seems to be built to last a lifetime. The finish on mine is flawless and it seems like real attention was given to things like polished frets, grover tuners, solid bracing. It appears to be made as well as anything I could buy from the more familiar brands but at a fraction of the cost.

Customer Support : 10
Never had to deal with them in regard to a problem but if one should come up I feel I will be treated fairly. Before purchasing the guitar I e-mailed them with a question about string guage. They returned my e-mail within an hour. They also are willing to refund your money if you are not happy with your purchase and will pay shipping BOTH WAYS! Ask one of the big companies to do this. Also, I have a strong feeling that the Zager company is in this for the long haul. They seem to be willing to do whatever possable to make the buyer feel special. It is a family run business and you get "old fashioned attention".

Overall Rating : 10
I have been playing for 30+ years and own Les Paul's, Paul Reed Smith's, Fender Strats and Tele's as well as Taylor and Crafter accoustics. I wanted a QUALITY guitar and was willing to spend 2 grand or more to get what I wanted. I played many expensive accoustics before buying the Zager. Why the Zager? Simply, the quality of materials used, other reviews in magazines but the clincher was when I asked about putting 10 guage strings on the Zager, (a trick I often use to make an accoustic more to my style of playing), the return e-mail said ALL ZAGER GUITARS ARE SET UP WITH MARTIN 10 GUAGE STRINGS. Finally a company that had the same thinking as me when it comes to making an accoustic guitar really playable. If lost or stolen I would sell one of my other guitars so I could buy another Zager. This is the first review I have ever written for any product but I feel that Zager Guitars are on to something! Reminds me of Paul Reed Smith in the 80's or Mesa Boogie when they were first starting out by modding Fender Twin's. Before you spend big bucks on the big name guitar's out there, you owe it to yourself to try one of these. With a money back return policy it makes a lot of sense IMHO.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: N/A
Submitted 02/27/2006 at 09:46am by Brian Heffner

Features : 10
ZAD80CE, Full sized dreadnought, rosewood back and sides, cedar top
Fishman electronics, grover sealed tuners.
I've been playing for too many years to mention, have owned Fender Tele,Gibson Les Paul Artisan, Gretsch Country Gentleman, Gibson Hummingbird, etc.etc.

I would put this guitar against anything I've owned for quality











Sound : 10
The big sound of this guitar fits my needs perfectly,
I do mostly a singles act with just my own backup.
You can set the guitar where you want it for sound, plugged in
and it sounds great straight acoustic also.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
I recieved the guitar in perfect condition, looks like a Gem.
The Set up is unlike anything I've played in an acoustic guitar.
I played 3 hours on Friday, 3 hours on Saturday and 5 hours on
Sunday just passed. No sore fingers.
Great Job Zager

Reliability/Durability : No Opinion
I haven't had the guitar long enough to quote on durability, however, I have no reason to believe it won't stand out for live playing. I ordered it with the moulded Zager case and I'm very particular with any of my instruments. (I have an Ephiphone acoustic
however, that needs to have the electronics soldered on a regular basis: has a poor system for the battery.)

Customer Support : 10
Every dealing I've had with Zager so far has been friendly and prompt. I feel that if I do have any problems, it will be dealt with proffesionally.

Overall Rating : 10
In the short time that I have had the ZAD80CE ZAGER, if someone sole it today, I would be on the phone or E-Mail to get onother on shipped.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $795.00
Submitted 02/21/2006 at 02:04pm by magoo

Features : 10
Built 2/06. Solid cedar top, rosewood back, sides, fret board and bridge. Full abalone inlay. Gloss finish. Full size body with cutaway. Sealed Grover tuners. Built in transducer, onboard tuner, onbard electronics and tuner.

Sound : 10
Extremely easy to play. Beautiful sound

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Guitar arrived in tune - ready to play. Flawless finish.

Reliability/Durability : 10

Customer Support : 10
Extremely patient, answered all of my e-mails within 15 minutes - night or day. Lifetime warranty.

Overall Rating : 10
I haven't stopped grinning since I got it. Plays much easier than my Washburn acoustic or Fender Strat


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $745
Submitted 02/21/2006 at 12:42pm by Robert Pedersen

Features : 10
My guitar is a cutaway orchestra model so it's a little smaller than full size. The top is solid cedar and the sides and back are rosewood with a gloss finish. The neck is rosewood with 21 frets. There is abalone inlay on the neck, around the edge of the top, and the rosette is abalone as well. It has a Fishman transducer with a built-in tuner. The tuners are gold Grovers. I'm not sure what if anything else I would want in an acoustic guitar, so as far as I'm concerned it's got all the features I need and want. The built in tuner is one feature I wouldn't want to be without, and worth the extra money.

Sound : 10
I find the sound rich and full. I have not plugged it into an amp yet. If the bass were a little fuller I'd like it better, but then maybe I should have gotten a full size for that! I'm extremely pleased with the tone of this guitar.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 9
The fit is nearly perfect. The finish has just a couple very small beads of varnish or whatever the clear finish is at the top end of the head. Other than that, the finish is perfect.

Reliability/Durability : 10
I'm not a professional, but the guitar seems very solid. I'm not the abusive type, and take care of all my stuff, and I expect this guitar to be with me as long as I wish!

Customer Support : 10
I have talked with the company several times, and found them to be very friendly. It's a BIG plus to have a human answer the phone, and when they're friendly and helpful, WOW! They have a 100% money back guarantee - if you don't like it, they will have it picked up and returned and pay shipping both ways plus refund the purchase price. Can't beat that! Their guitars carry a lifetime warranty.

Overall Rating : 10
I'm first a piano player. I have played around with guitars for several years, and quite frankly never was happy with the cheap ones I could afford, and just couldn't justify spending the kind of money I thought I had to spend to get the feel and sound I wanted. Because I traveled a lot, I ended up with a Baby Taylor that I kept for a few years. It lacked depth of tone, and it wasn't particularly easy to play, and so I sold it. Then I went shopping at local guitar stores, and discovered that I was going to have to spend 1500 or more on a Taylor to get what I really wanted. Since I'm not a pro, I didn't think that was the way to go. When I found Zager Guitar, I really felt it had to be to good to be true. Their guarantee gave me the courage to call and talk, and I decided to try them out. I ended up buying their most expensive model for $745 with a $95 case. So, now I have an acoustic/electric guitar with a built in tuner, a nice sturdy case with a temp/humidity sensor for under a grand that looks good and sounds great! I think the biggest testament to it's sound and playability is the fact that I don't want to put it down! If you only own one guitar as I do, this model is a perfect choice. If you own many, you ought to have one of these as well! As an aside, they also include a set of strings (Martin) two picks and a t-shirt. These folks are doing everything they can to provide a serious musical instrument at a more than fair price in my opinion.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $695
Submitted 02/13/2006 at 02:26pm by pickngrin2000
Email: pickngrin2000<at>aol dot com

Features : 10
- Solid Cedar Top
- Ochestra Model Dimensions
- Rosewood back & sides
- Sealed "Grover" Tuning Gears
- Built in transducer
- Onboard electronics & EQ
- Onboard electronic tuner
- Guitar strap audio jack
- Full abalone inlay
- 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 guitar has a bright sound either plugged in or not.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
This is my second guitar from Zager and the set-up on both were fantastic. The action is low and plays like melted butter.

Reliability/Durability : 10
The guitar comes ready for the long haul. Very durable.

Customer Support : 10
The guitar has a lifetime warranty. When I have contacted the company with questions concerning a new purchase they went out of their way to be helpful. Most of my contact was by email and they return an answer superfast. I haven't had to contact them with any problems whatsoever with either guitar that I have bought.

Overall Rating : 10
This is a great playing and cosmetically beautiful guitar. I have been playing for about 8 years. I own several high dollar guitars and I would rate my Zager right up there with them. I prefer Zager acoustics because the action is so much lower than other guitars and much easier on the fingers.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $725.00
Submitted 02/13/2006 at 10:59am by Larry Diercks
Email: ldiercks at cox<dot>net

Features : 10
2006 Zager ZAD-80CE Acoustic/Electric Dreadnought Cutaway. Has 21-frets solid cedar top with Rosewood body. Has Grover Tuners. Has Fishman electronics including tuner. Also, purchased the Zager Hard Shell Case with humidifer. The case is very sturdy and stylish; as well as; practical.

I also have a Zager ZAD-50 Acoustic.

Sound : 10
My music style is soft rock. I use this with a Fender Acoustasonics Jr. DSP amp. The guitar produces a very rich sound. I love the feeland the action enabled by the EZPlay String setup. It makes this guitar so easy to play and significantly reduces the usual sore fingers. It is such a joy to play.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The action is fantasic. The guitar arrived tuned and in flawless shape. I was able to plug it in and play without any adjustments.

Reliability/Durability : 10
I do not play live. However, I play ALOT. This is my second Zager and both have served me well. I have zero complaints and am very pleased with them both.

Customer Support : 10
Only thing that shines brighter than these fine guitars is the Customer Support. I must tell you these folks are a dying breed. It has been literally decades since I have seen a company take such personal pride in not only the product, but ensuring the customer remains happy long after the sell. No ONE can touch these folks in this department.... NO ONE!

Overall Rating : 10
I have tried to play off and on for 15 years. I have owned Ovation, Martin, Gretsch and an assortment of others. This has been the only guitar that has gotten me past the previous obstacles. Using the Zager guitar with EZPlay string, Zager online tutorials and the pleasant one-on-one customer relations has allowed me to play like I always wanted to. I am not a Pro, so I can only honestly speak to the majority (non-pros). You should seriously consider a Zager. They provide you with everything you need to play like a pro, without expensive lessons/high-end guitars. You get a beautiful high quality guitar, if you chose to online tutorials that are top-shelf and EASY to learn from and HANDS DOWN the best darn customer service I have seen in my LIFE!

I am so happy with their product and support; I have no problem with giving you my name and email (ask me questions anytime):

Larry Diercks (ldiercks@cox.net).


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $745.00
Submitted 01/24/2006 at 02:45pm by M. WALLICK

Features : 10
2006, USA
SOLID SPRUCE TOP
SEALED GROVER TUNERS
BUILT IN TRANSDUCER
ONBOARD ELECTRONICS
ROSEWOOD FRETBOARD AND BRIDGE
TORTOISE SHELL PICK GUARD
HAND CARVED
CUTAWAY, MANY MANY FEATURES!

Sound : 10
ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL SOUND, WORTH EVERY PENNY!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
PERFECT IN EVERY WAY

Reliability/Durability : 10

Customer Support : 10
VERY HELPFUL, FRIENDLY, WITH AN "AT YOUR SERVICE" ATTITUDE.

Overall Rating : 10


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $835
Submitted 01/14/2006 at 04:17pm by Jim Burden

Features : 9
Zager guitars are made in Indonesia and modified in Lincoln, NB. Cedar top, rosewood back, sides, fret-board and bridge. Fishman Classic 4 electronics. Grover tuners, Venetian cutaway, 21 frets, abalone inlay rosette and binding, very thin neck, dreadnought with cutaway (CE),

Sound : 9
I haven't plugged in yet, but the tone and projection is quite impressive for an $800 guitar. The cedar and rosewood give it a nice balanced tone. Not as "bright" as my old Maple Taylor ... a little warmer tone. Nice sound for extra light strings. (Part of the EZ Play set-up). You can check out their website for that philosophy. I have not tried heavier strings yet.


Action, Fit, & Finish : 9
I purchased this guitar because I had an accident that required surgery to my left arm. Limited mobility, etc. The Zager EZ-Play name sounded a bit "hokey" but the money back guarantee was worth the price. It really is the easiest playing guitar I have ever played. Very low set-up. Custom carved nut and saddle. I was expecting buzz, but have not gotten it. I have no problem with the action, fit or finish. It is set-up as they indicated.

Reliability/Durability : 10
The guitar feels as solid as any of my other guitars. No reason for me to feel as though it is not as durable as "premium" guitars. No strap button on the neck. I don't think you should ever go to a professional gig without a back-up, but not because there would be concern with this guitar breaking while playing. Dropping, stepping on it, etc. is another story.

Customer Support : 10
These guys were amazing. They told me that if I could not play this guitar to my satisfaction, they would refund my money, send UPS to my house, pick it up and pay for the return postage. Lifetime warranty.

They act like people that want your business in the future. Bottom line is I would recommend this guitar. Nice guitar at a good price.


Overall Rating : 9
I've been playing for 30 years. Used to Mic-up with friends a couple of times a month. Had a bad accident that required 2 surgeries and left me with limited flexibility in my left hand. I bought the Zager because they professed to have the easiest guitar to play. I was expecting to sacrifice something in a guitar in the $800 range. The rosewood grain on my previous Taylor was a little tighter and prettier, but I can't say that the tone was significantly better. This guitar is 1/3 the price. It's a good deal.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US approx.800
Submitted 12/13/2005 at 10:58am by Keith Tatham
Email: keith<dot>tatham at btopenworld<dot>com

Features : 9
This is a high spec. Fishman equipped cutaway dreadnought style electro acoustic. I have to say I was sceptical when I read all the reviews but Denny Zager's low key selling style convinced me to purchase. I was visiting the USA so I had it delivered to my hotel as Zager do not ship overseas and I have to say that I am well impressed with the guitar and the service. It's so easy on the fingers and is a pleasure to play.( the action is so low and the neck that its like playing an electric- I have strats and a tele in my collection. I don't have a Taylor or a Martin, but it more than matches my Ovation and my mates Takamine for tone and is easier to play. I find it amazing that so much can be done to improve the playability of a high quality acoustic. I guess maybe what puts people off is the name EZ Play- sounds like a beginners instrument. and that like Martin Sigmas it is made in Indonesia, but its what happens in USA- the set up bridge and nut work- that makes this special This is an allrounder and would grace any professional stage. Solid Cedar top Rosewood back and sides and bridge. abalone inlays. Complete with plectrum, certificate of authenticity T shirt extra string set and online video assistance plus live help. can't say much more. Sorry put all my narrative in one category- hope this is ok (Keith UK)

Sound : 10

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10

Reliability/Durability : 10

Customer Support : 10

Overall Rating : 10
Sorry I made all my comments in the first box but yes I would buy another. I am thinking of buying a dedicated acoustic only model due to the impressive action.and mocve a couple of my collection out.
I suppose the only thing I could fault is that the second strap button at the neeck /body position is not fitted to allow for those who want to use the headstock, but the online video explains in great detail how to fit one. I personally would have preferred it fitted by Zager


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $795
Submitted 12/12/2005 at 02:02pm by mike wilson
Email: mwilsonno3 at btinternet<dot>com

Features : 10
1-crafted in indonesia & modified in the u.s.a year 2005
2-20 frets
3-solid cedar top
4-fishman , built in transducer,onboard electronic & e.q, onboard electronic tuner
5-rosewood back & sides, rosewood fretboard / bridge
6-clear gloss finish
7-venetian cutaway box
8-sealed grover tuning gears & thin neck with hand filed frets
9-accessories-strings ,plecs, t-shirt & guitar stand

Sound : 10
no such style yet, still learning but i can assure you after hearing my instructor playing it , it has a beautiful rich warm sound plugged or unplugged, he rekons it compares to any guitar he's played

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
this guitar was sent to me in scotland (uk) from america. it arrived still in perfect tune with incredible low action. the guitar itself was in perfect condition, could not find anything at all wrong with it

Reliability/Durability : 10
this guitar just has a feel of quality as soon as you pick it up, being a joiner i work with wood everyday and i know this was built to last and the hardware according to my instructor rekons its as good as you'll get

Customer Support : 10
this family run buisness must be a bit special, i deal with different companies every day & i cannot believe how helpful & patient they were with this order,there cannot be many left, this is one of the reasons i am doing this. to make things even better there is a lifetime warranty

Overall Rating : 10
i have been playing for about a year, i also have a tanglewood tw49 dlx which just gathers dust now.if this guitar was stolen or lost i would not hesitate to get another one because of it's stunning looks & it's value for money is incredible. i have compared this guitar to my mates takamine ean 46cx & apart from the price there is not alot of difference sound wise (which he agrees)but i find the zad-80c3e easier to play with its low action & bigger spacings between the strings.the only thing i wish this guitar had was a better player behind it because it certainly deserves it.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $795
Submitted 12/04/2005 at 02:33pm by Kinger8

Features : 10
This is a venetian six string acoustic guitar with a 21 fret neck, cedar top (solid), Fishman pickups, Clearwave 50 pickup onboard electronics with a tuner and brilliance, treble, middle, and bass slide nobs. The neck is in the thin to medium range and made out of rosewood. It has scalloped X-bracing, with hand made nut and saddle. Has excellent filed frets which makes its playability incredible.

Sound : 10
The guitar sounds great unplugged and plugged. The Fishman pickup doesn't hum and you lose little to none sound quality (depending on the amp) when plugged in. The guitar has beautiful rich sound. It plays well for any type of music. It sounds great soloing with blues and jazz, and for church I love it because it has the susstaining full sound when you play chords. For finger style it is excellent because the sound carries so well.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
My biggest concern was going to be the filed frets.I have seen other guitars be destroyed by filed fret jobs. No problems with this guitar at all. They are finished beautifully and it doesn't buzz on a single note. The action is INCREDIBLE! The easiest accoustic I have ever played and it sounds terrific. The finish is beautiful with abalone inlay bordering the outside edge of the top and encircling the soundhole. My only complain is that the pick guard sits a little high off the top.

Reliability/Durability : 9
It has top of the line pickups and a great finish. The strap buttons are solid and I don't foresee any need for a back up acoustic guitar. I can't wait for it to age because the sound well only get better.

Customer Support : 10
There is a 100% MONEY BACK GAURANTEE AND LIFETIME WARRANTY which covers shipping and handling both ways if you are not satisfied with the guitar! Customer service is available through his website www.zagerguitar.com. Enough said

Overall Rating : 10
I am cofident that I will keep this guitar for the rest of my life as my main acoustic. There isn't any reason to change. I have played Martins and Alvarez's and I prefer this guitar to anything I previously played. I love the sound and numerous features that come with it. I am extremely happy with this guitar and would recommend it to anyone at any playing level.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $790 no tax, includes shipping
Submitted 11/29/2005 at 09:08am by Craig Morgan

Features : 5
Purchased in 2005. Modified by Denny Zager. This is the more expensive of the two Zager acoustic-electric guitars that they sell.

The built-in tuner works well and included was an extra set of strings and an allen wrench.

You can look up all the features on their website.

Sound : 8
I play mostly country and light acoustic rock. This guitar sounds great. The highs are very bright and clear. It came with Martin extra light strings which seem to fit the guitar and my playing very well.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 9
The setup was perfect. The finish looks great. No flaws that I have found. The pick guard looks like an afterthought but other than that, perfect.

Reliability/Durability : 5
I can't really comment on this yet but so far, I don't have any doubts about the reliability or durability of this.

Customer Support : 8
The warranty is a lifetime warranty. I have not tried to have it repaired or had to use the warranty yet but in my dealings with the company, they are very helpful and friendly. They have a great website with lots of good information about their guitars, how to take care of them and plenty of useful videos for download.

Overall Rating : 9
I've been playing off and on for 4 years, every day for 1 year. I love the sound that this guitar has. Also, it is much easier to play than my previous guitar which is a Dean Tradition Acoustic. The fretboard is very smooth which makes sliding up or down much easier. The guitar is easier to chord and to move around the fretboard than my other guitar. It doesn't take as much effort on the fretboard to play this guitar. I have compared the sound to a much more expensive Taylor and my Zager sounds as good, if not better than the Taylor. If this guitar was lost or stolen, I would definately replace it with another Zager. I was nervous about buying a guitar sight unseen but the company offers a 100% money back guarantee and if you aren't happy with it, you can return it and they will pay for shipping both ways along with a full refund. I am very pleased with this guitar and I look forward to playing it for many years to come.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $795
Submitted 11/20/2005 at 12:17am by Craig Lumpy Lemke MA, BSed
Email: lumpy<at>digitalcartography dot com

Features : 2
I evaluated this Zager guitar in my studio in Phoenix on November 8, 2005. The guitar's owner is a client of mine who was experiencing buzzing (frets) and humming (pickup). I have no competing interest or disinterest in Zager or any other brand guitars. I do not sell guitars.

Instrument is a brand new (2005) Asian made Sigma guitar, rebranded as a Zager ZAD 80-CE. Solid top, laminated back/sides.

Fishman active electronics with barn door preamp. Battery compartment was wedged shut and unable to open. Zager authorized the owner/client to take it to a local luthier, at Zager's cost, for evaluation and repair. Local luthier found that a battery wire had wedged into the battery compartment door making it difficult to open. Problem was resolved with very little work by the local luthier. Owner was not charged anything for that simple repair.

Output jack on the guitar is UNSHIELDED. Plugging the guitar into any of several amp/preamp/PA systems results in an unacceptable level of AC hum. The hum was temporarily reduced by wrapping the jack terminals with conductive foil. Spending a couple of dollars more on an output jack would have improved this pickup system from UNACCEPTABLE to ACCEPTABLE.

Case was NOT included in the $795 price paid for the guitar.

Sound : 1
Pickup and electronics are unacceptably noisy with AC hum due to the unshielded output jack. Fret buzz and poor intonation render the sound unacceptable.

I don't know if Zager or Sigma installed the electronics. I would suspect it was Sigma. However this should certainly be something
that Zager should catch. In order to properly do a setup, it's necessary to measure the note frequencies with a strobe tuner. The guitar pickup output is typically used to drive the strobe. I was NOT able to get my Peterson virtual strobe to read the notes from the pickup output, it was reading the frequency of the 60 Hz hum.

Despite the relatively high action, strings buzz on the frets, particularly when fretting near the middle of the fingerboard, from about 4th through 8th frets.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 1
Denny Zager does a setup on the guitars before he ships them. He gives that a name he calls "EZ-Play".

In theory, this is the same setup that we all should be getting ONCE WE OWN THE GUITAR. I emphasize the "once we own" part because...Zager does the setup in Nebraska. Then the guitar ships to you, wherever you live. The shipping, and then the acclimation to YOUR climate, playing style etc all affect that setup and might render it essentially useless. You should have the setup done locally, by someone that knows your playing style, string gauge etc.

OK, now my observations on Denny's "setup".

Frets - Denny has filed the frets with a flat file.

That's the first step in a fret leveling job. BUT - he hasn't completed the job. The treble and bass ends of the frets are all FLAT. He hasn't recrowned the frets to their half round shape. So the 1st, 2nd, 5th and 6th strings all fret to a FLAT topped fret, not a properly rounded fret.

That caused the guitar to buzz and it would NOT intonate properly.

Bridge/Saddle - The bridge had a plastic, drop in, intonated saddle. Standard Martin/Sigma part. But the saddle was canted FORWARD toward the headstock by perhaps 10 degrees. Ideally it should be straight
up and down (zero cant) or even better, canted BACK by perhaps 5 degrees, toward the bridge pins.

We loosened the strings and pulled the saddle.

There is a Fishman undersaddle pickup AND there is a 1/32" plastic shim UNDER the pickup element. The plastic shim appears to be a piece of plastic wire tie. The thickness of the shim PLUS the thickness of the transducer caused the saddle to ride so high in the slot that there was only 1/8" of saddle in the slot. That was contributing greatly to the exaggerated forward cant of the saddle.

The CORRECT way to install an undersaddle pickup, is to REMOVE the shim and install the transducer in it's place. That's generally the purpose of the shim in the first place. To make it simple to install a pickup without filing the saddle or re-routing the bridge slot.

The overlooking of the saddle/shim problem is unacceptable, particularly for someone that calls himself a "Master Luthier".

Measured action -

12th fret open - 7/64 bass, 4/64 treble
12th fret with capo on 1st fret
6/64 bass, 3/64 treble
(this indicates to me that the nut slots
are cut correctly. There is not a large
change in action when the nut is taken
out of the picture)

Neck relief (truss rod setting)
7th fret open - .004 inch bass, .004 inch treble
(This is EXTREMELY shallow for a steel string
acoustic)
7th fret with capo on 1st fret
zero or not measurable, bass and treble

Nut relief. Capo between 2nd/3rd frets. Measuring
distance from top of 1st fret to bottom of string.
All strings within acceptable limits of <.005 inch.

Reliability/Durability : 2
Unacceptable for live, or any other type of playing, regardless of skill level of the player.

Electronics are virtually useless in their current state.

Intonation is VERY poor, surely do to the sloppy saddle mounting situation described above.

Playing anywhere between 4th and 8th frets is impossible due to buzzing.

Playing anywhere higher than the 8th fret is possible but the intonation is so poor that it sounds horrible.

Customer Support : 1
When the owner first received this guitar he noted the buzzing frets problem AND the 60 Hz hum in the electronics. He contacted Zager and asked how to proceed. Zager had the owner send the guitar back to Denny's facility in Nebraska. I'm not sure if the "Flat Filed Frets" occurred before or after that warranty service. I didn't see the guitar until after it had been returned from the warranty work.

The owner said the 60 Hz hum was present both before and after the warranty work. That suggests to me that Zager did essentially NOTHING to address the hum problem.

Again, I can't see how Denny or his son Dennis Zager, were able to do a setup on this instrument because they were unable to use the preamp output AND a large majority of the frets would not intonate or even play.

Overall Rating : 1
I have played for over 40 years including several years as a professional L.A. studio musician in the 60's and 70's.

Overall impression of the Zager...An acceptable $300
Asian made Martin copy (way overpriced by Zager at $800),
ruined by Zager's "EZ-Play" setup. The frets are now
filed beyond repair. It would take a $200-$300 fret
replacement to remedy his poor workmanship.

I would not allow a guitar student of mine to learn
on this Zager instrument as it is simply not playable.

As much as I'd be happy to be proven wrong,
I find it very hard to believe that this particular
instrument is just one that "slipped through the QA cracks".
The fact that it's been BACK to Zager for evaluation and repair,
and the saddle/frets/pickup problem has NOT been addressed suggests
to me that Zager simply doesn't know what he's doing.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $745.00
Submitted 10/31/2005 at 07:02am by Terry Godchaux
Email: terry at ecis<dot>com

Features : 10
2005 Manufacture, my ZAD80 has a solid cedar top, Rosewood back, Rosewood sides and Rosewood fretboard with a gloss finish. It has an Abalone inlay which surrounds the soundhole and around the edges of the top. It uses Fishman electronics for sound.

Sound : 10
I AM IN LOVE WITH THE ZAGER. I cannot express how this has grown on me. The mellow woody deep sound, intonation, volume and highs are better than either of my guitars, and better than I believe I have heard from others.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
This is apparently their trademark purpose for the Zager guitar line. Their info states that their actions are prepared prior to shipping by a luthier, hand adjusted and customized for the best play and actions possible. On arrival, I checked and it did not even need tuning. I absolutely agree. If you look closely, you can see that the frets and saddle have been professionally modified by hand.

All componentry was without flaw and beautiful. The only area I wasn't happy with was the Martin guitar case itself which arrived with a small cosmetic discoloration. Zager is replacing this as we speak without cost (including shipping costs).

Reliability/Durability : No Opinion
I have owned this for two days now, so I couldn't possibly provide an honest assessment for reliability. Concerning durability, all componentry appear well built without flaws. I would make the same comment about my Ovation which has lasted for years.

Customer Support : 10
I would echo everyone else's comments. When you call, you get the owners son without going through a phone tree, and they answer immediately. If you email, he answers immediately. It is so weird to have a salesperson be so quick to meet your needs completely. Their support would get a 20 in this class. I mentioned that the case had a small cosmetic problem regarding what looked like a black shiny glue material on the Martin case which could only be seen at an angle and up close. It wasn't a problem and I was asking how I might take it off. They said my replacement case was on its way and would arrange for UPS pickup the old case once the replacement arrived. WOW!

Overall Rating : 10
The mellow woody deep sound, intonation, volume and highs are better than either of my guitars (12-string Fender and 6 string Ovation acoustic), and better than I believe I have heard from others. One of my friends who owns a Taylor 814ce Grand Auditorium loved it, and I believe he paid over $3,000 for his. If I were to replace this due to damage or theft, I would buy another ZAD80 without a second thought.

I want to show this to another one of my friends by the name of Randy Angella who owns and builds the Angella line of guitars. His prices begin at the $4,500.00 end and quickly move up. He is known throughout the world for his classical and flamingo acoustic nylon string guitars. I would love to hear his opinion!! ...

This is not a plug for his business, but it may very well become another high five for the Zager guitar line. I will let you know what he says. I am one highly excited 52 year old customer who has been playing guitar off and on since high school!

Terry Godchaux


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $745
Submitted 10/27/2005 at 12:01pm by Michael Saunders - Las Vegas, NV
Email: kingmichael<at>cox dot net

Features : 10
- Venetian cutaway box
- Solid Cedar Top
- Rosewood back & sides
- Sealed "Grover" Tuning Gears
- Built in transducer
- Onboard electronics & EQ
- Onboard electronic tuner
- Guitar strap audio jack
- Full abalone inlay
- 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
Easy to play, great sound accoustically and brilliant when attached to my AXC1000 Behringer ElectroAccoutic amp. I handed the Zager guitar to my tutor (30+ Year Professional Guitarist) who plays a Martin usually. What he could make this guitar was astounding. I love the sound that comes out of this guitar. When I requested an opinion he remarked that this guitar is "Perfect". He suggested that it was a great guitar for the price. He went further to say that I should expect to be very happy with it for a long time to come. I agree.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
Arrived ready to rock. In tune and ready to play. Perfect!

Reliability/Durability : 10
I expect to be able to use this guitar for everything and anything. It came with a 100% lifetime warranty and 100% money back guarantee (including shipping).

Customer Support : 10
This is where I was totally sold. I would stack these guys against any 10 other guitar distibutors/manufacturers. My first ZAD 80CE didn't handle the shipping too well. No physical damage but my guitar tutor felt that the E base was not strong enough when used with an amp. Denny Zager Jr. arranged for a second guitar to be shipped immediately upon hearing my concerns. I was so releived by the by the supportive conversation. As at this writing I still have both guitars.

Overall Rating : 10
Beginner. Yamaha Keyboard. Behringer ACX1000 ElectroAccoustic amp, MIDIMAN midisport 2 x 2. Yamaha Accoustic 6 string.
The Zager is the best part of all. I would replace the Zager with another exactly the same in a heart beat if it were stolen. As a beginner I don't think that I can qualify or disqualify other guitars but my tutor, and another guitarist, that I requested opinion from are certainly qualified and they both agreed it was as good as guitars twice the price.


Product: Zager ZAD-80CE
Price Paid: US $745.00
Submitted 10/25/2005 at 03:35pm by Alex Chanco

Features : 10
This beautiful guitar I got from Zager is an acoustic/electric with a fishman electronic package. I have been looking for months to get a beautiful instrument until I came across this Zager EZ play on Ebay. I ordered one mostly due to the testimonials I read about the product and the company. And then it came. Gee whiz..this guitar looks and sounds better than the $3,698.00 Taylor I almost bought. I had my nephew, who plays a megabuck Gibson try it, and he can't wipe the smile off his face while he was playing it. With the money I saved, I purchased a Roland Acoustic Amp, nice mike and cables...and I still ended up saving a couple of thousand dollars. The action and playability are immediately recognizable. The sound is exceptionally crisp and clear. The only thing I did not like in the package was the Martin Case. I should have probably tried the Zager Case with the built-in humidifier. This guitar overall is the "real deal".

Sound : 10
I play folk and soft rock. I am using a Roland 60 Acoustic Amp. The guitar is very new, and I seem to like everything so far. The plucking compared to a nylon strung is a bit more challenging I guess.

Action, Fit, & Finish : 10
The guitar finish is as good as you would expect from a very expensive guitar. The action is excellent, although the spacing in between strings are much narrower than my old nylon strung guitar. The plus side is that I can shift and hit cords much easier because I have small hands.

Reliability/Durability : No Opinion
The guitar is too new for me to honestly comment on the above.

Customer Support : 10
Believe it or not, someone actually answers the 800 number. Staff is very pleasant and patient. According to Zager, the warranty is LIFETIME.

Overall Rating : 10
Been playing for 38 years. I like everything about the guitar. I wish they make nylon strung guitars. I surely will buy another Zager this Christmas. My sister would love to have one of these beauties.

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