Dean Zelinsky's Very Different Neck Design

[@Deanzelinskyguitars]

Phillip We want to thank you for the fine review of our StrettaVita model guitar. Really cool that you do this incognito, actually purchasing the guitar and do not reach out for a free one. We think it's important your fan base knows this. We just wanted to answer some questions and give our input on a few things, mostly coming from the comments section. We feel our Pickup Technology is second-to-none and one of the biggest attractions to our guitars. We appreciate you demo-ing and even breaking out the meter to show how our TruTap Pickup hits the sweet spot in tones for both single-coil and humbucking with virtually no volume loss. The StrettaVita actually has a 3/4” maple cap which is carved down to a bit over 1/4” at the edge of the body. The top thickness as well as the overall thickness is actually a bit thicker than a Les Paul. The mahogany is heavily chambered but the guitar is still not all that light due to the thickness of the maple. Regarding Diamond having a similar guitar, yes they did and it was designed by Dean Zelinsky. Today you would most likely need to find a used one. Best we can tell, they have been virtually out of business for some time now while keeping their website live. On the topic of our Z-Glide necks, it’s worth noting that the negative comments are coming from people who have never touched one and certainly never spent any time with one. We have sold thousands of Z-Glide equipped guitars over the years and for many players, the neck alone was the factor that turned them into repeat customers. Most of our customers are repeat customers. Of the thousands sold over the past 10 years, our overall company return rate is under 3 percent and Z-Glide specific returns is incredibly about 1 percent. Z-Glide can take a bit of getting used to. We hear everything from; "It felt instantly like a broken-in neck…like an old friend," "It only took about 10 minutes to get used to,” "It took me a little while to get used to it," and mostly we hear, "After playing Z-Glide it’s hard to go back to my other guitars!" Z-Glide is Nothing Like a Pool Cue and we have no idea where that story came from. The Z-Glide came about while Dean was lasering a snakeskin pattern into a guitar body and he thought of doing the same into a guitar neck. At that point, Dean said a light went off in his head and he started experimenting with reducing the surface area of the neck. With Z-Glide Technology, we absolutely do reduce friction! When you create a surface pattern, you can create hills or depressions. The pool cue’s crosshatch pattern is designed to create friction using hills or bumps, almost like sandpaper and increases grip. The Z-GLIDE pattern is the opposite. We create VALLEYS or DEPRESSIONS…yes, like a golf ball. While there is some difference in that a guitar neck does not fly through the air, it is scientifically proven a golf ball goes further due to the depressions. In addition to the depressions, the Z-Glide pattern has angled striations designed to wick sweat from the hand. To say a glossy neck is less friction than Z-Gilde simply goes against the science. We have a video demonstration on our website. Z-Glide was tested and refined countless times to achieve the optimal playing experience…And It Works! Outside of playing in the controlled environment of your bedroom, your hand does tend to sweat on stage under the lights, playing outdoor shows on hot days or simply because you are nervous. Players continually tell us “It’s A Game Changer!" The neck does not collect grime or dirt! It’s become a favorite “naysayer’s" comment but just not a reality! We quite literally NEVER had a single comment, phone call, or email from somebody complaining of dirt build up. We do suggest a nice polish with Lemon Pledge from time to time but any guitar polish will work fine. Speaking of naysayers, Dean Zelinsky is no stranger to resistance to new ideas in this industry. When he created the large V headstock in the 70’s, he was met with a lot of resistance to the design. Many dealers simply wouldn’t buy the guitars with the V headstock. Dean actually reduced the headstock size three times during the 80s in order to gain more market acceptance. You will notice there are no pictures of Billy Gibbons playing a Dean with a V headstock…he only played Dean’s Shrimpfork headstock. Decades later, everyone wanted the V headstock and the bigger the better. Dean’s philosophy since he started Dean Guitars (at the age of 19) was "nothing sells a guitar better than a good guitar.” Z-Glide is huge for our company and would be equally huge for other brands if Dean ever decided to license his patent. Phillip, due of the fact that we only sell direct and players cannot walk into a store and try one of our guitars, we extra appreciate your effort. Thank you again for the unbiased, faithful review of our guitar, and thank you to those who took the time to read our response! - Dean Zelinsky Guitars

[@yourdrummer2034]

Dean, It's good to see guitar makers still care about quality as well sexy! Beautiful guitar!

[@keithcostanza96]

I respect this response so much I’m gonna try one out

[@mrblank-zh1xy]

Can you guys start posting neck measurements, particularly nut width, and depth at 1st and 12th fret?

[@carsonwyatt8915]

Don't know if you all even look at these comments any more, but do you have models with a floyd rose or another type of floating trem system?

[@JammyGit]

I've still got my Soltero I bought 15 years ago. It's a nice guitar that looks pretty much the same as the guitar in this video 👍

[@patriotpizzaman]

I've been stalking these things for years. Always wanted to see someone do a breakdown and review. Thanks for your service brother!

[@joshuataft5541]

Same here ..I agree

[@jakajarc]

Same here, been stalking them since they were affordable:)

[@joshuataft5541]

@@ronaldrose8595 what do u mean. H u.. I dnt get it.. hope your having a good day

[@ronaldrose8595]

Mistake somehow I sent that

[@joshuataft5541]

@@ronaldrose8595 that's ok. I was just wondering if I needed to learn some new lingo lol... No problem..have a good night✌️

[@offbeatbassgear]

Am so happy that you finally did an evaluation and profile on the Dean Zielinsky line of guitars. Nice to see that you're also fully recovered.

[@jimabrahams3576]

I have two Tagliares. I was on the verge of checking one out, and was pushed to go do it after our surf instrumental band, The Breakers, played an extremely hot and humid outdoor show a few Fourth of Julys ago in the Chicago area. I had never had this problem before, but my hand was continually getting stuck to the neck due to the humidity, and many of our songs feature some fairly fast runs up and down the neck 😖. After that, I went up and checked one out at Dean’s shop, and grabbed one. It’s just an excellent guitar. You are right, most of the time it doesn’t matter too much if you’ve got that back neck or not, but in a couple of other very humid shows after that, I can say to me at least, it absolutely works and solves that problem. Most of the time you won’t have that problem, but the neck does not feel weird or distracting. It’s a really enjoyable guitar to play, and the tonal varieties are just incredible. I picked up a second one in black, with a sparkle orange pickguard for a Halloween show a couple of years ago. Love ‘em both! The guitars are excellent, and Dean is also a great guy!

[@duffman18]

Oooh those Tagliares are absolutely gorgeous guitars. I've been looking for a new strat that's just really high quality and not a fender one, cos I've got a fender one already, and it's such a rare model of fender strat that I have that I don't wanna play it or gig with it. So I'm looking for a new strat type guitar. A high end one with a super fast neck. But still with 3 single coils. I've been thinking of getting essentially a metal guitar, because they're usually amazingly playable. But I don't want the metal tone. I want 3 single coils. Or at a stretch, 2 single coils and 1 humbucker in the bridge. But companies like ibanez and Jackson rarely make guitars like that. I'm considering the PRS John mayer strat. And the G&L strats. Etc. Charvel make some super strats with a single coil in the middle and in the neck. Those look really nice. But G&L and Music Man are 2 different companies that were basically founded by Leo Fender after he'd sold the Fender company to CBS. So the strays they make are the "real" strats. They're high end, uncompromised, they're not made as cheaply as possible like Fender guitars ended up being (while simultaneously jacking up the price on their high end models, when originally those American made high quality guitars WERE the standard, not the high end versions, so Leo Fender started these two companies to make high quality fender style guitars as standard. So their strats are of interest to me, for sure) But yeah these Tagliares look so gorgeous. They're fender style guitars but with Gibson-style ostentatiousness, i.e. flamed maple tops, beautiful paint jobs, that sort of thing. I'll have to do more research on them. This Z-style glide neck thing is really fascinating to me as it's something brand new. There's so rarely anything brand new in the world of guitars

[@willthepeople]

What wood/finish necks were you playing previously that you found sticky? Have you tried playing an unfinished roasted maple neck or a sanded down nitro/poly neck? How did they compare to the Tagliare neck?

[@JimDibb]

@@duffman18 You know you can order a SSS Tagilare, or with the HSH --- as demontstrated in this video with the TruTaps --- the SideKicks are splittable and they don't change volume.

[@alexlightningboyedwards5350]

I bought a StrettaVita 6 or 7 Years ago. It is amazing. I was actually up in Chicago for work and found out his shop was minutes away so I went over during lunch and was shocked that Dean was sitting there just chilling out. We had a good hour long discussion and you could not find a more gracious and down home guy. I had bought a DBZ years earlier and wanted to see what he was up to with his new company. Well I ended up ordering the StrettaVita a few weeks later for my Christmas Present for myself. Cause you got to "Treat Yo Self" ever once in a while. This is so worth every cent. It competes with guitars twice that price easily. Great demo and glad to see his Guitars are getting their due recognition.

[@w5bbaker]

HI Philip and Dean: I have had a Stretta Vita for quite some time now and have loved it from day one. The truetap pickups do exactly what they say to perfection. When I got my guitar, the setup was perfect. Leading into last year, I found that I was getting weaker and weaker, leading to a hospital stay, surgery and rehab for just over 6 months. Fairly recently, when I got most of my energy back and was mostly recovered, I decided to get a complete profession setup. As it turned out, the setup was done by my local store's most senior guitar tech. After, I asked him whether there was anything to be concerned about and what he thought. While he was working on my guitar, he said that he started really liking the Z-glide neck. In addition, he said that the fit and finish and playability was significantly superior to the Gibson LPs that are a considerable percentage of the guitars that they sell. Philip, you are 100% correct in your assessment, thanks. Bill in Toronto

[@timothypotter2137]

That cost is not a lot for that guitar. There are other famous brands that make guitars that cost far more but are not near as innovative. I love it!

[@RichVandewhatever]

So glad you reviewed this- I’ve been curious about them for a long time

[@tuplalfred]

exactly my thoughts

[@christianmalinao]

I have one. Love it. Z-glide does not really help me lessen friction. What it does, for me at least, is it anchors my thumb better when I'm bending or doing vibratos. Meaning my thumb doesn't slide while I'm trying to grab the notes. It's great with that. They are advertising that neck incorrectly, imho.

[@joshuataft5541]

Yeah that's what I would assume..glad to hear your experience... definitely a cool design looks cool . Thanx for your account..it's the only one I've seen yet.i dno anyone who has tried one

[@Deanzelinskyguitars]

You are correct and we do not promote enough that when the thumb is depressed it gives your more traction for bends. We used to say slip when you need it and grip when you need it...but it was a bit confusing to some

[@givemeajackson]

@@Deanzelinskyguitars way better slogan, cause that's exaclty what i felt on the Z glide. my main issue with finished necks is too much friction with low pressure, not enough friction with high pressure. z glide fixes that very nicely.

[@Turdsplosion]

@@Deanzelinskyguitars Personally i think that slogan works, I'd just shorten it. Less is more. For instance: "Grip only when you need it." implies that it glides when you don't need grip, but really gets to the point. Plus I think talking about grip/lack of grip works well with the look, we associate texture with additional grip by default, so saying it's a particular KIND of grip gels with the average brain I think. When I heard "glide" and saw this neck I assumed it had a special coating sealing the texture off or something. Anyhow, no hard rules in branding / advertising. Just some food for thought.

[@mrblank-zh1xy]

This neck is sounding better and better

[@jdj62464]

With over 32k views and 1700 comments in less than 20 hours shows there is a lot of interest in the Zelinsky guitars! Thanks for the review, I've been think about getting the LaVoce (without the piezo system)!

[@haroldheller975]

I have owned a StrettaVita for a couple of years now. My main guitar is a 1969 Gibson Les Paul Custom that I have owned since new. Fact is, I'm just not comfortable playing out with it anymore. I have nightmares of it getting knocked off the stand and breaking the headstock . I bought the StrettaVita because it was different. I never had a guitar with a coil split or a neck without heavy lacquer paint on it. I can't say if it's the design of the neck or just not having the heavy paint on it, but I do like the feel of playing the guitar. So, with the neck and the coil tap, it knocked two things off my bucket list. As an old guy, I find that I don't play around with the coil tap a lot, so the feel of the guitar is my favorite feature.

[@timothypotter2137]

Sorry, but I just dropped over to their website...blown away!

[@yhzh2002]

I've never found 'sticky' nitro gloss necks to be an issue compared to satin or semiglossed necks, but I can definitely see the appeal of a low friction neck.

[@TMmodify]

to me, the feel is more important than the friction. I'm particularly touch sensitive and the feel of satin is somewhat distracting compared to either natural wood or gloss finishes

[@necrojoe]

Oh, man...an outdoor gig in the Midwestern summer sun with a nitro finished black LP... it was so bad it turned me off gloss necks forever, and that was about 24 years ago.

[@sleepdeep305]

@@necrojoe I'm right there with you. I've played every kind of neck finish you could imagine, but I will never play a gloss neck live again. Don't mind it while practicing, but not if any sort of heat is involved.

[@squatchjosh1131]

@@necrojoe A pretty good way to cut teeth though - but maybe a little too hard on oneself.

[@bigchiefsmackaho387]

you all should try putting an automotive top coat on your gloss necks. Makes them play smooth as glass and protects the paint from minor wear. P&S Chemical's Bead-Maker is a great choice. also makes your guitars shine like crazy.

[@fezmey6117]

I really like that they are doing their factory coil splitting this way. It really does keep an authentic single coil sound while not letting the volume drop or treble overpower the signal. I have seen too many times that coil splitting leads to thin sound and low volume, but this is just fantastic. The humbucker tones are great and the split tones are a great recreation of in between Strat and Tele style single coil tones. Nice job Dean!

[@jamieskillman6972]

Well you hit the nail on top, that neck is addicting, after you play it awhile you can find yourself, playing up and down the neck a lot, my friends who didn't like it at first go directly to it and pull it off the wall and play. I don't say anything till it happens multiple times, when I ask them why they go to that guitar it is always the same answer, I don't know there is just somthing about it that makes me want to play it.

[@chrisggoodwin777]

I've come to enjoy watching the Patreon cut and the main post 😁

[@michaelbalance98]

These guitars ship from Illinois. They sell you their guitars directly. They don't distribute them to stores.

[@steved9723]

Own a tagliare with the z-glide neck. I think it's very comfortable and would choose it over any thick lacquer. The guitar overall is decent and came setup very well, holds tune with vintage style trem. I purchased it several years ago. I don't know what a new one costs now but at the time the price point was fair and came with several color options and was available left handed my overall reason for purchasing it. Nice review Phil.

[@stevencohen5116]

Been a while since I’ve seen ad’s for this guitar, out of sight, out of mind. Nice surprise, and enjoyed learning about this guitar, as it sounds like a really good sounding Les Paul + . I was blown away by how seamless the coil splitting between HB and SC is, and the phase switch really sounded like a useful tool. In the end, I’m really impressed with the fit & finish and the value of this instrument, which really came through in your look see intro, and was displayed in the sound demo.

[@seanhallahan14]

Phillip, YOU ROCK!!! I could listen to you read the phone book. Thanks for all that you do. Best & cheers, Sean

[@leslieperry3001]

I recently purchased a Dellatera (tele style). Aesthetically beautiful instrument. The Z glide neck must be experienced. It feels very different, though I can’t say that it feels faster than any other neck. A superior instrument. I love mine .

[@calibcrockett]

Awesome video! Just saw that kind of neck for the first time 2 days ago and then you post a video on it 😁👍

[@VandalHaven]

you're such a thoughtful and thorough reviewer, no need for the clickbait titles

[@donttalktome4696]

Dean's showroom is a few towns over from me. Looks like I'm going to check them out soon!

[@donttalktome4696]

I think the "less friction" idea only works at medium and high speed. If your a slow player I dont think this would be any benefit as the slower you move the more time your hand flech has to catch on all the grooves. If you move fast you would "glide " over the neck. Just a theory. I think of the mythbusters "washboard potholes" episode.

[@Mad-v3d0n]

It is a known theory in engineering regarding flow: If you flow gas for example in tube full of holes slow it will go out of the holes. As flow is faster the gas starts to skip the holes and treat it as the tube was solid. That means are partially right - the faster you go the more irrelevant this patent is

[@BC-fy1wn]

BTW,I am primarily a LP style guitar player,when I play guitar.That said when you were demoing the instrument in a non over drive sounds my pyrenees she came over and sat down and listened.Obviously she liked your playing Phil.Great job. Doc BC

[@tonylewis20]

I have had a Strettavita for several years. I live in Southern Mississippi and gig in 100 degree weather with 80% humidity and this neck is MADE for this weather!! Never sticky, solid as a rock, and very consistent in tension and feel. Dean Z. is great for support as well. I have called with stupid questions and always been treated kindly and with respect. Give this guitar a chance....the neck alone is a GREAT conversation piece.

[@papasmamas1]

Finally a review about this thing, Ive been wondering what is this about since years !!

[@ipuya]

What an awesome review!!! And what an amazing guitar! Love the out of phase tone and the fact that the coil split sounds so good. Looks amazing!

[@leslieperry3001]

Great review and great playing Phil.

[@josephwalton487]

I love glossed necks on fretless. Gives me a sort "brake system" of sorts.

[@a.leemorrisjr.9255]

According to Dean the majority of Private Label guitars are manufactured in Indonesia with final assembly & inspection@Chi-town area facility. He now offers USA line also. Have both Tagliare & Strettavita model(s) for the cash you can't beat them (including hardcase.) Also have an eye for a Dellaterra Tele model. Z-Glide neck does what he says it does. Very smooth, fast, easy playing.

[@joshuataft5541]

Man I wish I could afford one that is so classy but new and improved..I'll be dreaming about this tonight.. thanx for making these videos..I get a ton of enjoyment out of them and they have gotten me through some tuff times

[@runningwithscissors0911]

Hi Phil! I am SUCH a fan of you and your channel ~ I have learned so much from the Sharpen My Axe series and really enjoy your weekly Podcasts. I also appreciate how thorough and detailed your reviews are. Thank you.

[@copperaudio9664]

Phil, thanks for schooling us in on these. I like everything about them, especially that the set up comes to me perfect. I do have a bit of trouble believing the back of that neck doesn't get grimy though, I hope I'm lucky enough to find someday as they make lefty's. Good on them.

[@dalehoward9977]

I've been waiting for an objective review of this brand. Thanks Phil!

[@kingcormack8004]

The last time I spoke to Dean was about 4 years ago at the store in Highland Park and he mentioned moving his manufacturing to India. He was really unhappy with the quality issues he had in Indonesia and his concern was that the guitar industry was new in India so I'm not sure if that actually happened.

[@michael.davides]

The one that I had was indeed made in India, so I guess he made the transition? Also, I had the Tagliare (Strat) model. Not sure if they were all made in the same factory.

[@ImpostorModanica]

My Indonesia built Cort begs to differ

[@michael.davides]

@@ImpostorModanica I have had nothing but good experiences with anything made by Cort. My mid 2010s Squier Vintage Modified Strat was incredibly well made. I miss that guitar.

[@ImpostorModanica]

@@michael.davides Exactly.

[@미란아나세찬인데]

What’s that leopard patterned guitar behind you in thumbnail?? I love it!!

[@sonicsega1699]

i have a tagliare private label. it is beautiful and that neck does help. i allways hate when my hand gets sticky so i would sand off a prs or gibson, however this z glide does solve that issue (maybe not 100%) i mean its impossible to never get some stick. and the pickups are beastly. i only paid 500 at a pawnshop because they thought it was hand custom, when its actually custom from the shop. greatest pawnshop find i'll ever get

[@jeffatkins8103]

I met Dean Zelinsky a few years back at a friends wedding. Very down to earth and nice soulful person. Anything he makes I know his heart is in it. I just wish I could afford one of his guitars sooner than later!

[@mrblank-zh1xy]

I couldn't get the neck measurements from DZ guitars, thanks for doing it Phil, I'm much more likely to buy one now.

[@jray5363]

Been following them on instagram for a while. They do make some sharp guitars! Been curious about them for some time and it’s nice to see a review. Your playing really shows off it’s features, in a good way.

[@BennieJames-g3n]

Thanks just ordered a private label .. will let you know how it is ...Thanks ford all of your reviews.. Bennie

[@squirelova1815]

Dean has been extremely innovative and somehow continues to have Home Run ideas like the ATW.

[@davebentz1796]

Genius! That's what everyone has been wanting in pickups.

[@DavidHBurkart]

Very unique design & still retains many classic qualities sought after by players. Thanks for a thorough review on this Phil

[@silverpairaducks]

I love these necks. I like the imperial. It's like a 335 but just the top.

[@TheBeriking]

Hope you and ms.Phil are feeling way better!

[@scottreynolds6317]

Seen these advertised and was very curious about them. Thanks for the review!!!!

[@Grt31pmkin]

Just started seeing ads about these guitars on Facebook like 2 days ago... I was kind of intrigued by the neck and, what do you know... Phil is on the case!

[@chromaflage11]

Fantastic review. Thanks very much for doing this! I've been coveting a LaVoce, but a little reluctant to buy without putting my hands on one. This was very helpful!

[@webb264]

I have a Dean Zelinsky Mule bass with the z-glide neck and I love it! I have over 40 basses ranging from a Music Man Stingray Special 4HH BFR to a Rickenbacker 4003 to a 51 Blue Flower Tele/Pbass, and I regularly include the DZ in the rotation. Great bass.

[@BlurpeeBaggins]

Thank you for doing this review. I have been looking at the LaVoce for several years. They look beautiful in all the photos but looks can be deceiving. I was more concerned with fit and finish than I was about the Z-Glide neck and your review answered the questions I had about the quality. Again, thanks for doing this review…I actually even reached out to them and asked if they would send you one to review but got back a very polite “no”.

[@TheDivepyrate]

I bought one with Zebra pickups and it's a Blonde! everything he says is True. since he didn't really go into detail about the Z-Glide Neck, I am looking to have my Strat Lasered as will as a Custom Gibson Les Paul in Artic White. Why?? Because there is really a good slipperiness to the Z-Glide many can't explain but for me it is like spraying the neck with Silicone or "Finger Ease". If you use the silicone you know it makes to guitar neck much faster in sliding and jumping frets. Stretta is no my only Dean Z. I have a Tagliere as well with Z-Glide and Tru Tap. The Tagliere is wild killer sound and can be infinitely adjusted on each Pickup! all 5 of mine are at an experimental setting that can blow away Gibson, Strat, Tele, the sounds are all there! When I can Afford more I'm going with Zelinski!!

[@stevenbullock9276]

I've been wanting to try one of these, but their site now says they start at $1800. That's a lot for an Indonesian guitar- without a case. There's a pic of a gloss black one, with a blonde board, gold hardware and a unique trem that looks awesome. Thanks for the review!

[@tonyalto1014]

That is a very nice looking guitar. Love the body shape/contouring. Thanks for reviewing it Phil. They were not even on my radar before this. Now I think I 'need' one.

[@dusted2death]

Thank you!! I've been curious about this innovation myself.. 🐒

[@wrektum]

Great review! What a cool guitar

[@mikerooney8735]

I know this is probably an unpopular opinion but you say the neck width is "relatively medium" but I think it would help to say something like "it's a little thicker than a wizard neck" or "near a 60s les paul" just a suggestion, I also don't really know relative neck sizes but I'd like to Know My Gear. Thank you for everything, Phil, you're amazing!

[@Jydmd]

I’ve always liked the body carve on their Tele model, it looks very nice.

[@frankn4skeen]

Hi! Your shows are always sweet and really educative. One thing I must mention: Please, remove the tuner from the headstock when you demo new guitars! At 1st, when the video started, as the tuner's black and the headstock too, it made a really weird "shape" to say the least. Ithought "What's wrong with that weird headstock", then, "Of course, that's the tuner!". A little tuner on the floor will do the trick as well, and will be "out of the way" for a better "visual". 2 thumbs up for you!

[@michael.davides]

Finally! I had a one for a while. Cool piece and I had fun with it. However, I didn't like how the bones in my thumb rubbed up against the Z-glide neck. It almost gave me a blister. I think the "low friction" thing is just a marketing buzz word. I think it actually causes MORE friction lol. It's kinda like comparing a gravely road with tiny pot holes everywhere to a nice smoothly paved road. **EDIT: Mine was made in India (it was stamped on the bottom of the guitar by the strap button), it was a Tagliare (Strat), the build quality was quite good, the case was awesome, pickups were mediocre to my ear (I had the standard HSS and not the special side kick ones). And I think it was a 2015 model**

[@ReeWebster]

Nice to hear someone who actually played one say that, cos imo that design definitely screams "additional friction!!!" not less. So much so there has to be another reason it was created, I mean, how many other things use tread for grip? Doesn't seem very intuitive to think this idea would be slick.

[@superscatman4236]

Also, think about how gross it gets in the grooves of your frets with just the oils from the tips of your fingers. Now imagine what the back of this neck will look like after a year or two of your palms rubbing against the pattern on the back. It would be impossible to clean too. You would have to sit there with a sewing needle picking it all out.

[@michael.davides]

@@superscatman4236 Thankfully, I didn't own the guitar long enough to experience that lol but yes, you bring up a very good point.

[@duanetribune4441]

I have a Dellatera, got it about 6 weeks ago. My only issue was the setup was really ‘buzzy’. Took it it my tech because I thought it probably just a minor setup problem. Turns out there was a issue with the neck pocket & the frets I think starting around the 9th or 10th fret. So he reworked the neck pocket & did so minor leveling on the frets and it plays much better. The Z-Glide neck doesn’t bother me at all, could be a little thicker but that’s just personal preference. Sounds great & I love the Side Kicker Pups. Finish is nice ( mines is the Caramel Burst). Other than the little problem with the neck I think it’s a great value.

[@miguelnaranjo538]

Awesome review Phillip! Thanks for sharing your wisdom. Could I purchase that guitar from you?

[@allyourbasearebelongtous2191]

That sounds way better than I was expecting. I mean I wasn't expecting it to sound bad. Impressed.

[@Sankeyite]

Oh my goodness, Love the tones Love this thing!

[@jefb3705]

I've been looking forward to this review.

[@joaoabrunhosa1921]

Around 5 years ago, I bought a slightly different version of this guitar, at a very low/blowout price (about 15% of this model!!!), from a big German online store. No z glide neck, different pickup configuration (2 humbuckers, master tone, master volume and coil split), made in Indonesia. Took a chance on it and I was really surprised on how good it feels and looks. The neck, fretwork and playability... it really feels different and comfortable, even without those dimples. When I played a Dean Zelinsky Tagliare (the strat type one) with the z glide, didn't feel like anything I'd miss.

[@nilshordon6101]

I had a La Voca Dean guitar with the z glide V neck, and there’s a lot to like here. Fit and finish was top notch, loved the tone of the pups, balance was fantastic, pups works as advertised, loved the 20:1 ratio locking tuners. I also didn’t mind the z glide on the neck, worked well and as advertised- forgot about it after a bit. I ended up selling the guitar eventually because I just couldn’t bond with the V shaped neck, but again the z glide was fine. Didn’t know about Diamond guitars until this vid, will check them out.

[@Rick2112.]

The electronics cavity looks so dirty at 11:20 you can see wires with exposed copper

[@rockinrob2004]

@PhillipMcKnight I have several Deans with that neck inc. this model. Why did I get them? I've had other Deans w/o the Z & they've been great, thought it was different, so wanted to try. I like them, still play my other brands, F/G/PRS/G&L etc. yet like most of us that have several brands they ALL have their vibes & character. Also, BTW YES that IS made in Indo. Contrary to some of your commenters here NO fret sprout, perfect frets/board, etc. Overall like you said somewhat MORE comfortable than a GLP b/c of the body. Thanks for everything you do! CHEERS!🎸

[@BennieJames-g3n]

I have the DZPL and I love the sound and the neck is great. Will probally buy another later.

[@pastelcia42]

that's actually a really different and smart way of thinking about a "fast" neck, it's the same principle of a lot of things designed to not stick, aka have less friction, like chef's knives that have divots on the side so that food doesn't stick to it when cutting. But I agree it's kind of trying to solve something that isn't a problem

[@dnantis]

I had one in my hands and never dare to try it out and i can hear.... it has an AWESOME TONE !

[@thorny7138]

I love the concept and bet it feels really cool.

[@TrapCityProd]

I own two bolt neck Strettavita guitars, one is a BT Standard in Vintage White, and the other is a BT Custom in Tobacco Burst (that came with a LaVoce headstock). I also own a Tagliare H-S-H Custom in Trans Purple Burst, a LaVoce Custom in Vintage Sunburst, and a Mule 4-string Bass in Vintage White. All have Z-Glide necks (I find them comfortable). The Strettavitas are the older type with split pick-ups and not the SideKick or TruTap pickups, so it doesn't sound quite as good in split coil mode. The one model I don't own is a Dellatera! My favorite is the LaVoce (got it for less than $800 with case a while back, before the prices went up), it's just so much lighter with some real versatility in tone, including an acoustic tone from the Graphtech Ghost Bridge. I've had all of these for a while now, so was glad to see someone do a review on the newer offerings. FYI - The Z-Glide necks are laser etched using an industrial laser and not on a mill. They have the various parts of the guitars built in other countries, and then assembled in the US as they are ordered (think of them as semi-custom built from a mix of US and foreign parts, though I understand they now offer a model that's entirely US made). In the early days of Dean Zelinsky Private Label the bodies were shaped by hand rather than on CNC machines, though I don't know if that's true anymore. The etching of the Z-Glide necks is done in the US as needed to fill orders. DBZ changed to Diamond after Dean Z. left to start Dean Zelinsky Private Label. I understand there's a story behind that, though I don't know what the story is. But with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee and a 5-year warranty, you're pretty well covered when buying one. I did make use of the warranty once on the Vintage White Strettavita and that went well, and I was happy with the result. Unfortunately, all my DZPL guitars are out of the warranty now...

[@MikaelLewisify]

Picked up a Delaterra at a pawn shop yesterday. Hands down the nicest guitar I’ve ever played.

[@randymiles904]

I'm happy to see a review on these. Deans are my favorite guitars ever. The zilinsky guitars are really awesome too, for obvious reasons. I love these necks. They feel great. Nice video as usual man.

[@timtaylorguitarnut]

That Z glide is found on wooden gun stokes, it's called checkering and has been around a long time. Smart of Dean to put it on a guitar neck, don't know about patenting it but cool guitar. I don't know which one I want but I'm getting 1.

[@davebentz1796]

Best sock test ever? I didn't think a fret job could be that perfect from the factory

[@theshotgunscientists]

I got an epiphone moderne a couple years ago brand new. It came with flawless fretwork.

[@rockinrob2004]

He just showed it to you! ;p I've had many a guitar come perfect, granted I've also had a lot that were less than favorable & i needed to do work on them.

[@ChrisEck13]

I've had lots of guitars with perfect frets. The only higher end guitars that I've experienced noticably sharp frets are MIM Fenders. It's common on low end guitars but you shouldn't happen on mid tier or higher guitars.

[@wyldebill8122]

Hey Phil Great Update! I own 2 DZPL’s w/ the Z-Glide necks, luv it...Definitely a different feel! Keep up the Great Work! 👍

[@pjr114]

I have two Zelensky T-style guitars. The Z-Glide never appealed to me, so when I purchased them I ordered each with a regular maple neck, which was still available at the time, and they are both excellent. As Phil said it's solving a problem that doesn't exist. At least not for me. I can comment on other aspects of the guitars. The first guitar I bought from DZ was a B-stock straight Tele type with T-style pickups. The guitar has a very good build and pickups sound great, one of my best sounding T-styles. The guitar was quite inexpensive and the only thing I noticed was that the finish seems a little uneven in back of the bridge. A minor defect. I liked it so much I ordered a Custom T-style with an HSH config and the Sidekick (now TruTap) pickups. The guitar also has a very good build. The color was listed as Trans Blue but it appears more like a Trans Teal, a lot of green in the maple top. The back is more Trans Blue. One of my only complaints about the guitar. Still, it's a nice looking guitar. The pickups sound great and don't lose volume when you split them. The neck has a nice feel but slightly wider and deeper than the B-stock, which also took me by surprise as they are supposed to be the same. My first winter with the Custom, it developed fret sprout, despite my having a humidifier pack in the case. Easily solved by my luthier. The price I paid for the Custom has increased by about 50 percent since I bought mine. The Custom is a very nice guitar, though my overall feelings about it are a little mixed because of the finish and neck. It's a quality instrument that sounds great and was a great value at the time.

[@Rangure02]

Dean Zelinsky is a legend

[@Billy_bSLAYER]

I purchased a DZ. 5 String Bass, The Mule with the Z-Glide system. All said, I love it and it GLIDES!!

[@MusicTherapyLaz]

I've seen one of those...I think at NAMM or somewhere... love the description of the calming sensation! Literally laughing out loud on that one! 🤘🎸😎

[@nathansguitars328]

In terms of the Z glide, it's a very similar concept with satin vs gloss. Gloss necks are super flat and highly polished which doesn't allow air gaps. Satin is a more 'rough' finish that probably allows micro air gaps all over. Even though glossy necks are smoother, many report that satin feels smoother. There's more to satin vs gloss then that, but at a micro level, that could be part of it.

[@Anjohl]

I have been eyeing these for over two years. It's nice to see a third party reviewer playing one, as almost all of their media is done in-house, with their employees playing. These are assembled/set up in the US, from parts made in China for Dean, that is my understanding. This guitar sounds *lovely*, and has an incredible variety of tones!

[@Matt-cr4fr]

This is the dean company, not the private shop. Dean zelinsky started both but he sold Dean.

[@Anjohl]

@@Matt-cr4fr I am aware of that, I was referring to his current company that sells these direct from their website. All of their media is of the same heavily tattooed employee playing their guitars: not exactly an unbiased opinion.

[@tonycarpaccio9550]

Great review. Been very curious about these, came close To ordering one but went with a strandberg for now. I would really like to order one of their strats, they have some gorgeous designs with all that paisley work and customization.

[@aligatorsandwitch72]

I've never played a z-glide neck but a local luthier built an acoustic with an ornate floral carve on the neck. It was a fascinating experience playing the guitar but I wouldn't necessarily say it's an innovation that should stick around.

[@yourdrummer2034]

Excellent review Phil. Edit: that's a sharp looking guitar! Edit2: I really like this axe!

[@robbking68]

I got a Dellaterra and it feels and sounds great. I love the neck. Unfortunately, it is neck-heavy. They did offer to swap for a heavier body, but I decided to deal with it since the finish I ordered was so nice. I did ask about the country of origin and the rep said they order from different countries. Mine has a stamp on the body by the bottom strap button that says "made in India".

[@scottbyers33]

Thanks for a great review, I've been curious about the brand. The neck being my biggest curiosity.

[@G-Point-EU-AU]

Two volume pots provide wide tone variations using the out-of-phase connection. One "basic" pickup at full Volume and another one just adding/balancing some of out-of-phase effect. Endless variations, but hard to repeat... :)

[@PeterBex_ArtDirector]

I sat next to Dean in English class at Highland Park High School in the early '70s and I remember two things: He always brought a guitar case filled with pieces of wood that he'd work on. The other is that he drove a purple Barracuda. Great guy I barely knew. Say hello, will you? Thanks.

[@reececamptenmyers6063]

I love that geeky stuff you do because I as well love seeing how the guitar comes out of the factory

[@writewheel]

I have a z-glide Tagliare and the textured neck definitely grows on you. It became my #1 go-to for "strat" sounds.

[@ribbitism]

11:20 theres mad sloppiness in that wiring, some solder iron burn through on that top black ground wire, looks like some on the white wire too? eesh

[@thomaskendrick6766]

They are made in India. It's marked under the felt on the bottom strap button. I've bought 3, all with the Z-Glide neck. Wish I could get that neck finish on some of my other guitars, I love it.

[@ChrisM1234]

Dean told me guitars are made in Indonesia, however the final quality check and modifications are made in Dean's shop in the US.. He also said that returns are offered for anyone who's dissatisfied with the guitars or specifically, the "Z-Glide" neck. Fortunately, Dean says that the vast majority enjoy the guitars and "Z-Glide" technology for the neck.

[@clanofhousecats8079]

I saw a used one last year in store, and It was trippy to see the design on the back.