Aria Pro-II ST-400

To think this was an entry model to the Stagecaster range is to understand why so many guitarists stuck with the brand and gradually upgraded to the upper end. 

A lovely full C profile neck, so almost impossible to put down, and never failing to bring the best out of your capabilities wherever on the scale they may be. Still featuring its tremolo cover and original arm, this guitar looks and feels almost new. There are 2 parking dents along the underside - other than that, there are new instruments hanging in Music Stores with more signs of life. The SP-II single coils are characterful; some may say this guitar deserves an upgrade, but have a listen to the video and maybe these are good enough. 

SP-II and their PU-100 equivalents are actually pretty damn nice sounding pick-ups - Maxons have a firm following - after a modern Strat at this price point, these will feel like upgraded already.