Zager ZAD-80CE

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
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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!!

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!!

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Rosewood back and sides Cedar Front, Nice.

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? 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

Top notch electronics. Great finish. Well constructed.

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

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!

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!

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!

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.

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!

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!

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Absolutely top notch - check out my final comments below.

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.

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

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.

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).

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.

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).

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.

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)

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

Crisp clear precise.

Almost flawless. Truly a joy to own.

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.

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

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.

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!

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!

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!

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!

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

Its brand spanking new but it appears to be a well built guitar.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!"

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Perfect

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.

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

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...

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 ).

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.

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.

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.

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 )

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.

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

sound awsome bright and rich
you can play anything with it

great workmanship,
top finish

i have played several gigs using the zager and it is as good as i bought it

top notch!!

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

very attractive guitar, nice custom appointments and woods.

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.

high quality construction and appointments.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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....

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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,

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

The guitar arrived in perfect condition and in tune. I found no flaws in fit or finish.

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.

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.

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.

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)

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 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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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 that equals or betters much more expensive intruments

Fit and finish is impeccable. Came in tune with zero flaws.

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

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.

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

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

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 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

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

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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 like butter!
Finish: Unbelievable!!
Fishman Electronics: Need I say more???

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!!

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

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!!

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

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

This is a beautifully assembled guitar. Noy a flaw can I find

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!!!!!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

excellent factory setup best I've had over 40 years of playing fine fit and finish

Its seems fine but have only had it a month

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

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

Sounds better than the instructors $2000 Taylor.

Wow!
Plays like nothing else out there. We tried them all including $4500 guitars

Perfect for any gig. Light but beautifully constructed and with the fishman electronics on board....exceptional sound consistently

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

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

Finish - Lustrous. Body Style - Cutaway.

Exquisite tonal qualities. Rich, full sound with excellent sustain.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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

This guitar has the Zager EZ-Play modification which requires very little pressure on the strings. No buzzing. Very easy to play.

This guitar will be around when I pass on. It is built solid and will last many lifetimes.

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.

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.

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!

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

The action is the best I've ever tried. Easy to finger and chord. It also has a rich and beautiful wood grain.

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

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.

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!

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 ...

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

Actions is great .. no flaws that I can see. The inlay work is a very very nice touch ...

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 ..

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

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 ...

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.

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

All I had to do when it arrived was tune it and play it. Even after an hour it stayed in tune.

Have no idea. I'm not a good enough musician to play for strangers.

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.

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.