Aria Acoustic Model 9610

[Pauls321]

Hi, I've been tripping about the countryside and today found this old acoustic in a second hand shop. Cost me $80. For 80 bucks I thought I will see what I can do with it. It's an Aria, model 9610, made in Japan. From what I can find it was made in the 70's, has a spruce top, and mahogany neck, sides and back. And was called an Aria Hummingbird, styled along the Gibson Hummingbird. Hummingbird/s are on the scratch plate.

The glue has given away along the rear of the back, near the back (between back and side) for a few inches. Should be able to fix that.

The action at the head end seems nice and low, but up around the 12th fret, seems a tad high to me. The bridge seems to have raised the top a bit, maybe I am wrong, maybe they should be like that.

Anyone know much about these, or comments on the bridge,..?

Regards, Paul

[orraloon]

With the top lifting the action wont be where it is supposed to be. No point worrying about the action until after you have fixed the top anyhow.
Would be best not to have string tension on it while in this condition.
Regards
John

[Pauls321]

Thanks John, for your reply. Having internet connection at this unit, I have been doing some googling, and looking at repairing "bridge belly's". I was amazed to find just how many others have similar problems with older guitars. I am guessing this guitar is 40 years plus. Looks like a nice project for me when I get back from this trip. I've been keeping my eye open for an older guitar that needs some work done on it, but not a cheapie junk one. For 80 bucks it will be worth some playing with.

Paul