1982 Aria Pro II PE-60

This example appears to be finished in FR (Flashing Red). According to the catalog, other available finishes included OS (Oak Shade) and JB (Japan Brown)—and I also happen to own a white PE-60.

The PE-60 was produced as the most affordable version following the PE-R60. Models bearing the “60” designation share a traditional Les Paul-style construction, with a maple top and mahogany back. In contrast, models above the PE-R80 feature a three-layer body of maple–mahogany–maple.

The higher-end PE models are known for their bright, focused tone and strong tightness of response, with coil-tapped sounds that can easily be mistaken for those of Fender-style single coils. By comparison, the PE-60’s thicker, Les Paul-like body produces a warmer, richer tone—less crisp than its upscale counterparts, but wonderfully full and resonant.

The weight reflects that solid build: 4.51 kg (including strings). My white PE-60, in fact, weighs even more at 4.78 kg—almost like lifting a dumbbell.

The pickups are labeled Smooth Crush, and I have no complaints about their sound; they deliver exactly what one would expect from a well-built instrument of this era.

Weight: 4.51 kg (including strings)
(Updated June 15, 2016)