I’ve recently had the privilege of collaborating with Zager Guitars. These guitars, crafted by the skilled luthier Denny Zager since 1969, are renowned for their exceptional quality and ease of play. In this post, I’ll provide a comprehensive buyer’s guide to help you navigate through the various models offered by Zager.
Zager Guitars present a lineup comprising four primary models: the flagship ZAD900, the ZAD80, the ZAD50, and the ZAD20. Now, let’s delve into each of these four models and explore their distinctive features.
Easy Play ZAD900 Solid Spruce/Rosewood Acoustic & Electric Pro Series
Zager’s flagship guitar, a highly sought-after instrument that many customers consider to be the finest acoustic guitar in today’s market. This model has been pitted against top competitors such as Taylor, Martin, Gibson, Fender, Santa Cruz, and Bourgeois, consistently leaving players very impressed. If you’re in search of a guitar to pass down through generations, this model is the ultimate choice.
Featuring Sitka Spruce Sound Board, Indian Rosewood back and sides and an African Mahogany neck, the ZAD900 is an exceptional guitar to play with a truly distinctive sound. Mr. Zager elevates the 900 series by personally hand-scalloping the bracing, adding an extra layer of uniqueness to these already extraordinary guitars.
Within the ZAD900 series, the individual models commence at $1995, while the highest-tier model is priced at $2595. Click here to check out all the models in the ZAD900 series.
Easy Play ZAD80 Solid Cedar/Rosewood Acoustic & Electric Pro Series
Another solid buyer’s choice. Selected by artists for over three decades, both on stage and in the studio, the Zager 80 Series stands as the preferred guitar for touring musicians and seasoned players seeking a professional-grade, lifelong instrument. This series consistently earns high ratings, placing it in the top 5% of acoustics in national and international publications—a remarkable feat when compared to guitars priced two to three times higher.
If you appreciate the deep, rich bass characteristic of rosewood guitars, the addition of a solid cedar top takes it to the next level, offering a mellower, sweet response. Coupled with the renowned Zager playability, this guitar stands ready to compete with any acoustic on the market today, regardless of its price.
Within the ZAD80 series, the individual models commence at $1595, while the highest-tier model is priced at $2095. Click here to check out all the models in the ZAD80 series.
Easy Play ZAD50 Series Solid Spruce/Mahogany Acoustic & Electric
Zager’s original handmade guitar crafted for 32 years, the 50 Series stands strong, competing admirably with guitars priced twice as high. This model encompasses all the hallmarks of a traditional acoustic and is frequently likened to the Martin D18 and Taylor 5 Series. Notably, it offers enhanced playability and a more affordable cost, given that you’re purchasing directly from the builder.
In 2020, Mr. Zager introduced a more detailed ivory zipper stripe binding, and the guitar now features the new 2020 Fishman Presys II electronics system, adding a distinctive touch. In the construction of the 50 Series, Zager employs the classic tone woods of Sitka spruce and African mahogany, paired with a more intricate bracing system. This combination enhances the depth of the tone compared to the 20 Series guitars.
Within the ZAD50 series, the individual models commence at $995, while the highest-tier model is priced at $1395. Click here to check out all the models in the ZAD50 series.
Easy Play ZAD20 Series Solid Spruce/Mahogany Acoustic & Electric
Introducing Zager’s straightforward, no-frills guitar, meticulously designed to rival models priced at $1000 and above. According to magazine reviews and customer testimonials, this guitar not only holds its own against well-known $1500 models but often surpasses them in performance. If you desire the aesthetic, tactile, and auditory qualities of a high-end acoustic, coupled with 50% easier playability, then this is the pinnacle of guitar offerings.
The ZAD20 is Zager’s most budget-friendly model. It is a full mahogany guitar, featuring a natural spruce soundboard that contributes to a stunningly bright and focused tone, without sacrificing depth or richness.
Within the ZAD20 series, the individual models commence at $795, while the highest-tier model is priced at $1195. Click here to check out all the models in the ZAD20 series.
Conclusion
Zager Guitars are renowned for their exceptional playability, attributed to several key features. Beyond the lower string heights that require minimal pressure for chord formation, Zager Guitars offer custom string spacing to prevent accidental bumping. Lower string pressure is implemented to enhance speed and accuracy in playing. The custom neck design ensures a natural feel and increased comfort, while a special fret design minimizes finger fatigue during extended playing sessions. The guitars also boast a special bracing system that produces a booming sound. Moreover, quality control is personally conducted by Denny Zager himself, ensuring meticulous attention to detail in every instrument.
Below is a helpful video comparing each of the models.
With so many quality models to choose from, you will be seeing more of Zager Guitars at colchesterguitarteacher.com in the future!