Dean
Since 1977
Dean Guitars is a Florida-based builder known for angular ML/V/Z shapes, artist-driven signatures, and metal-forward tones that span entry Vendetta lines to USA Custom Shop instruments.
49
Years in Business
3M+
Guitars Sold
$180M
Annual Revenue
Complete Dean Guitar Guide
Comprehensive buying guide, price analysis, model comparisons, and expert insights to help you understand everything about Dean guitars.
Dean Price Overview
Dean covers a wide range of instruments from entry-level to professional models. Typical used prices vary by condition, series and year. Higher-end USA models and limited editions retain value better than mass-market lines, while rare or vintage pieces often command significant premiums.
When evaluating value, consider originality (pickups, hardware), structural condition (neck, frets, finish) and documentation (serials, receipts, setup reports). Price dispersion across platforms is common; local stores offer service and inspection, whereas online marketplaces provide broader selection and price transparency.
For detailed buying advice, model comparisons and condition-based pricing, read the full guide linked above.
Market Overview
Average Price
$950
+5% vs last year
eBay Listings
1,300
Active listings
Sold This Month
520
+3% vs last month
Price Range
$250-$3,000
Current market range
Data sourced from eBay, Reverb, and Guitar Center used listings
Dean Timeline
Founded in Chicago
Dean Zelinsky launches Dean with the ML shape that pairs Explorer and V geometry.
ML & V gain stage traction
Metal players adopt the angular shapes; Dimebag Darrell brings ML onto arena stages.
Armadillo acquisition
Armadillo Enterprises purchases Dean and later relocates HQ to Tampa, Florida.
40th anniversary editions
Limited ML, V, Z, and Cadillac runs celebrate four decades of the brand.
Artist roster expands
Kerry King collaboration signals renewed focus on signature metal instruments.
Select & Exile refresh
Select series updates add stainless frets, Fluence/USA pickups, and modern finishes.
Complete Dean Product Lineup
Dean leans on radical ML/V/Z shapes, hot pickups, and artist collabs to keep stage presence high from value lines to USA customs.
Iconic Shapes
Classic Dean silhouettes built for metal stages.
Modern Shred
Fast necks, hotter pickups, and contemporary bridges.
Singlecut & Workhorse
Set-neck sustain with versatile voicings for rock.
Entry & Value
Budget-friendly builds that keep the Dean silhouette.
Signature & USA
Artist-spec instruments and USA shop runs.
"Dean leans on radical ML/V/Z shapes, hot pickups, and artist collabs to keep stage presence high from value lines to USA customs."
Model-Specific Buying Guide
Each model has unique characteristics that affect both tone and value. Here's what to look for when buying specific models.
ML / Razorback
Pickups & voice
EMG/Fishman or DMT humbuckers define gain clarity; coil-splits on Selects broaden clean tones.
Bridge options
Floyd Rose vs. Tune-o-matic: decide on dive-bombs or maximum tuning stability for down-tuning.
Weight & balance
Large wings add mass—check strap balance and case fit; verify neck relief after shipping.
V Select
Neck feel
Thin-C carves with jumbo frets; inspect fret ends and nut height for low-action metal setups.
Electronics
USA DMT or Fishman Fluence sets push midrange bite—confirm quiet coil taps if present.
Hardware check
Grover tuners and TOM bridges need tight posts; confirm V-case compatibility for transport.
Thoroughbred / Cadillac
Set-neck sustain
Set-neck/mahogany builds give thick mids—compare maple-cap vs. all-mahogany for brightness.
Pickup voicing
DMT/USA or Seymour Duncan sets cover classic rock; check coil-split wiring for hum control.
Weight & comfort
Singlecuts can be heavy—verify strap button placement and contouring for long gigs.
Exile / Icon Select
Modern specs
Stainless frets, 16" radius, and fast necks favor shred; ensure factory setup suits your tuning.
Multiscale & scale
Some Exile runs add longer scale—check intonation and bridge alignment after shipping.
Noise floor
High-output sets need clean grounding; listen for hum with gain and adjust pickup height.
Vendetta / Custom Zone (Entry)
Setup matters
Budget builds improve with a pro setup—nut slots and fret ends often need attention.
Bridge & tuning
Hardtail bridges stay stable; if trem-equipped, set spring tension for your gauge/tuning.
Upgrade path
Stock electronics are serviceable—budget for pickup swap if chasing tighter high-gain clarity.