What's it worth?

Karen

Hi, I have a Aria AK 30CE guitar. Some say it's worth a lot, is it true?

guidothepimmp

Welcome to the forum.

the value of a guitar is driven by many factors, desirability, brand, playability etc.. different things to different people.
Aria, whilst a reputable brand, is not a brand that is typically sought after, unless it is a specific model made out of Japan in the 70s that some may view as collectable. Even with these specific models, they will likely be found for relatively cheap.

For the model you refer to, it would be classed as an affordable range instrument. Not cheap, but certainly not expensive. The AK30 ce would likely retail new at around R4000 to R5500 (disclaimer, i could of course be very wrong and far off the mark), depending on the store and themarkup. Cash price is anywhere between 15 to 30 percent off that mark depending on the store markup and how one negotiates.

Second hand price would be half of that or lower.

depending on condition and whether there are accessories, and the quality of those, ie, case vs carry bag etc, second hand, i would guestimate a value at between R1500 and R2500

Karen

Thanks man.

Pirate

Hi Karen

For what it's worth, I have an Aria as my main axe, even if mine is an El Cheapo (new I would guess is around R4k). The reason I hold on to it is because I like the versatility that comes with it, and because the late Cliff Burton (Metallica) was an Aria man... So, not much in terms of financial value, but if it's good enough for a big name rockstar, it's good enough for me.

V8

+1 to Guido's pricing comments.

Pirate wrote: because the late Cliff Burton (Metallica) was an Aria man...

Those Aria Pro II basses (and guitars) are a different level of craftsmanship to this acoustic or your electric...imo, customshop at a fraction of the price. It's like comparing a a MIC Squire bullet to a MIJ Fender ?

Pirate

Meron Rigas wrote: Those Aria Pro II basses (and guitars) are a different level of craftsmanship to this acoustic or your electric...imo, customshop at a fraction of the price. It's like comparing a a MIC Squire bullet to a MIJ Fender ?

I know, and I agree to the level of quality involved. But I stick to my story - if it sounds good enough, it is good enough for me (until perhaps I get sponsored with high-end guitars, then I MIGHT just be convinced to change my mind ?)...