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Description

Step back in time with the 1980s Dean Z Custom, a quintessential piece of rock history that has etched its mark on the world of electric guitars. This solid body electric guitar is a treasure from Dean's golden era, known for its distinctive V-shaped headstock and sleek body contour that scream vintage glam rock. Crafted with precision, the Dean Z Custom boasts a mahogany body and set neck, offering exceptional resonance and sustain that make it a standout for any guitarist seeking that classic rock sound.

Equipped with two high-output humbuckers, this guitar delivers a punchy and dynamic tone, ideal for hard rock and heavy metal genres. Its rosewood fingerboard provides smooth playability, while the 22 jumbo frets facilitate effortless bending and chording. The guitar's hardware, including Grover tuners and a Tune-o-Matic bridge, ensures reliable tuning stability and precise intonation, whether you’re shredding a solo or laying down tight rhythm sections. The Dean Z Custom is not just an instrument; it's a statement piece for those who appreciate the vintage aesthetic combined with powerful sonic capabilities.

Key Features:

  • Mahogany body and set neck construction for enhanced resonance
  • Dual high-output humbuckers for a versatile and powerful tone
  • Rosewood fingerboard with 22 jumbo frets
  • Grover tuners and Tune-o-Matic bridge for stable tuning and precise intonation
  • Iconic V-shaped headstock design

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1980s Dean Z Custom.

Build quality

  • The original paint job on some 1980s Dean Z Customs is notably durable and distinctive, resembling Charlie Brown’s shirt with its unique pattern.

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  • Some models have full-size unbranded pots, potentially Alphas, praised for their decent taper.

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Comparisons

  • Owners have favored the Dean Z Custom over contemporaneous models like the Gibson SG Standard due to its playability and aesthetic appeal.

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Features and functionality

  • The bridge on some models is a pre-Kahler Accutune II, a rare find that enhances the guitar’s vintage appeal and functionality.

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  • The V neck profile is noted for its comfort, particularly among players accustomed to similar profiles on acoustic guitars.

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User experience

  • Owners report minimal wear on the body and neck, even after years of use, with only small dents like those on the back of the headstock being common.

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Use cases and applications

  • The guitar's design and tone are ideal for 80s hair metal, providing an authentic sound and style that enthusiasts seek.

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Setup and maintenance

  • A few models from India came with defective toggle switches, which owners replaced easily due to favorable purchase prices.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Owners consider upgrading the Floyd Rose Special to an original Floyd for improved performance.

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  • To enhance tone, there are suggestions to replace stock pickups, which are perceived as dull, or to consider coil splitting.

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3.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

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See how Dave Mustaine uses 1980s Dean Z Custom

Dave Mustaine

Guitarist, Singer

Metallica

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Verified via Photo

He is seen holding one in this promo image

Genre Usage

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Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    joeygreen
    joeygreen

    Gear IQ 166