Aria Pro II: Japan’s Professional Electric Legacy

Launched in 1975 by Aria as its electric/guitar-and-bass division, Aria Pro II quickly became synonymous with Japanese craftsmanship and design innovation.  For much of its golden era, Aria Pro II instruments were built by Matsumoku in Japan, who lent their exceptional woodworking and manufacturing skill to the line.  

Aria Pro II’s early models often drew influence from American standards—Fender and Gibson styles—but quickly evolved into more distinctive offerings under designer H. Noble (Nobuaki Hayashi), who introduced bold body shapes and original concepts. Among the company’s most celebrated lines is the PE (“Prototype”) series, launched soon after the brand’s start. These guitars featured carved maple tops, heel-less neck joints, and high-performance pickups (e.g., DiMarzio in later versions) to deliver both aesthetic appeal and sonic versatility. The bass side of the family also made waves with the SB-1000 model, boasting neck-through construction, onboard active electronics, and a distinctive transparent or see-through finish.  

In the 1980s, Aria Pro II expanded with more aggressive designs—models like the XX, ZZ, and U-1 mirrored the rise of hard rock and metal. When Matsumoku closed in 1987, production shifted overseas (especially to Korea), though top-tier models and reissues have continued to be built in Japan.  

Though its commercial prominence has waned compared to its 1980s peak, Aria Pro II remains prized among collectors and players for its build quality, tonal flexibility, and its role in the “Made in Japan” electric guitar heyday.

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Aria Guitars