The Aria Pro II Jet Bass: A Legend Built for Every Bassist
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If you're looking for your first bass — or an affordable second instrument with genuine pedigree — the Aria Pro II Jet Bass deserves your full attention. It's a guitar brand that carries decades of history, has been played by some of the most respected names in music, and is available right now at Music Bits Company at a price that overdelivers on every level.
The Story Behind Aria Pro II
Aria (formally known as Arai Co., Ltd.) was founded in Nagoya, Japan in 1956 by Shiro Arai. Initially an importer of European classical guitars, the company quickly pivoted to manufacturing its own instruments as demand for electric guitars surged in the late 1950s and '60s.
By the 1970s, Aria Pro II had become one of the most respected Japanese guitar brands in the world. Their instruments earned a fierce reputation for exceptional build quality — often rivalling, and in many cases outperforming, American-made alternatives at a fraction of the cost. Throughout the late 1970s and 1980s, Aria guitars and basses were the go-to choice for serious players who wanted professional-grade instruments without the premium price tag.
Today, Aria Pro II continues to manufacture instruments that honour that same philosophy: quality craftsmanship, player-focused design, and genuine value.
Famous Players Who've Picked Up an Aria
Aria Pro II instruments have graced the hands of some genuinely iconic musicians:
- Cliff Burton — The legendary Metallica bassist was famously associated with Aria Pro II basses early in his career, helping to put the brand firmly on the metal map.
- John Taylor — Duran Duran's bass player and one of the defining figures of the 1980s new wave scene used Aria basses during the band's most commercially successful period.
- Les Claypool — The Primus frontman and one of the most technically gifted bassists alive has been linked to Aria instruments throughout his career.
- Geddy Lee — The Rush bassist, widely considered one of the greatest to ever play the instrument, has had associations with Aria Pro II during various points in his career.
The brand's reach across genres — from heavy metal to new wave to progressive rock — speaks to the versatility built into every instrument they make.
What Makes the Jet Bass Special?
The Aria Pro II Jet Bass is built for players who want a proper bass at a sensible price. Here's what's under the hood:
- Body: Poplar — lightweight, resonant, and ideal for long rehearsals and gigs
- Neck: Maple, bolt-on — fast, stable, and forgiving for developing players
- Fingerboard: Rosewood — warm tone with comfortable playability
- Frets: 22
- Scale Length: 813mm — standard long scale for that deep, defined bass sound
- Pickups: 2× OJ-5 Single Coil (Alnico-5) — punchy and articulate, covering everything from funk to rock
- Controls: Volume, Tone, Pickup Selector — simple, intuitive, and reliable
- Hardware: Chrome throughout
It's a bass that looks the part, sounds great, and has been designed to be played — not just admired.
Is the Jet Bass Right for You?
Whether you're a complete beginner picking up your first bass, a guitarist looking to add a second instrument, or a seasoned player who wants a reliable workhorse for rehearsals and gigs — the Aria Pro II Jet Bass ticks every box.
It plays well straight out of the box, sounds better than anything near its price point, and carries the kind of heritage that most instruments in this bracket simply can't match.
Come and try one in store at 17 High Street, Alford, Lincolnshire, LN13 9DS, or browse and order online at www.musicbits.co.uk.
📞 01507 838 448 — our team are musicians and happy to help.
Aria Pro II Jet Bass Guitar available from Music Bits Company priced at £244.99 (RRP £299.99). In-store testing welcome.