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Description

Step into the groove with the Aria Pro II CSB-450 Cardinal Series, an electric bass guitar that seamlessly combines vintage aesthetics with modern playability. Originally introduced in the late 1970s, this bass has become a favorite among players who appreciate its distinctive double-cutaway body design, providing easy access to higher frets without compromising on comfort or style. The CSB-450 offers a warm, punchy tone thanks to its high-output MB-II pickup, making it suitable for a wide range of musical genres. Its robust construction and classic design ensure that it can handle both studio sessions and live performances with ease.

The Aria Pro II CSB-450 features a bolt-on maple neck that delivers a smooth playability, while the rosewood fingerboard offers a rich tonal quality. Adjustable bridge and die-cast tuning machines provide reliable tuning stability, so you can focus on what matters most: your performance. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting out, the CSB-450 is designed to support you every step of the way.

Key Features:

  • Distinctive double-cutaway body design for easy access to higher frets
  • High-output MB-II pickup for a warm, punchy tone
  • Bolt-on maple neck for smooth playability
  • Rosewood fingerboard for added tonal richness
  • Adjustable bridge for precise intonation
  • Die-cast tuning machines for reliable tuning stability
  • Versatile sound suitable for various musical genres
Demonic Sweaters

Demonic Sweaters

I found a bass in the trash

Video thumbnail for I found a bass in the trash by Demonic Sweaters

I found a bass in the trash

Demonic Sweaters

Demonic Sweaters

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Aria Pro II CSB-450 Cardinal Series.

Build quality

  • Owners note a distinct wood grain finish, praised as visually striking and unique among similar models.

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  • The Aria Pro II CSB-450 features a brass nut, contributing to its sustain and tonal clarity, which is a unique characteristic not common in similar vintage models.

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User experience

  • The bass is known for significant neck dive, a recurring theme among owners familiar with similar models.

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  • Despite shipping concerns, delivery from Japan via FedEx was notably quick, arriving in under a week.

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  • Players describe the bass as having a deep tone and being lightweight, making it comfortable for extended play sessions.

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Features and functionality

  • Pickups are akin to P-bass style, producing a powerful, gritty sound, especially with round wound strings.

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Value and pricing

  • Purchased for $530 with free shipping from Japan, highlighting competitive pricing for the quality offered.

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  • Aria Pro II basses from the 1980s are becoming more desirable, with their undervalued status making them a smart investment before prices potentially rise.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Owners recommend cleaning vintage electronics by addressing over-soldered connections and thick wires, which can improve sound quality without replacing parts.

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Use cases and applications

  • Kim Deal used an Aria Pro II on The Pixies’ Surfer Rosa album, highlighting its suitability for alternative rock music styles.

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Comparisons

  • The medium scale neck is noted for its comfort, similar to other 1980s Matsumoku factory instruments, suggesting a familiar feel for those accustomed to Japanese builds.

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4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

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See how Kim Deal uses Aria Pro II CSB-450 Cardinal Series

Kim Deal

Singer, Guitarist

Pixies

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Verified via mixdownmag

In this Article, Kim Deal can be seen in a photo using an Aria Pro II Cardinal Series. She Used it on Come On Pilgrim (Pixies Album) and Surfer Rosa (Pixies Album).

See how Debbie Googe uses Aria Pro II CSB-450 Cardinal Series

Debbie Googe

Bassist

My Bloody Valentine

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Verified via Photo

A user-uploaded photo in BeatRoute magazine reveals that Debbie Googe used an Aria Pro II CSB-450 Cardinal Series Bass Guitar as part of her live rig in the late 1980s, and it was likely featured in studio recordings from the same period.

Album Usage

The Aria Pro II CSB-450 Cardinal Series has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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