I’ll admit, I was first drawn to Dean’s guitars due to the beauty of the finishes. They are works of art and would be worth it just to hang on your wall… but, don’t. My Tag plays so smoothly and without effort that I wouldn’t think it possible. But, fortunately, it is.
The case is also first class. I’m sure this won’t be my only Zelinsky purchase, but I’ll have to wait to try to do this one justice first ;)
Thank you Dean for having the patience to talk me through the selection yourself. AWESOME!
Mike
This is the best guitar and experience buying a guitar that I have never had..best built guitar you can buy .hands down..service was on point spoke with Dean one on one.If your a player you need Atleast once of Deans guitars in you collection of not more.Thank you Dean
This is the second review I've written about my LaVoce. So forgive me if I repeat myself, although I'm approaching this review from a different angle. Let's start with this preface: the LaVoce certainly has Gibson's Les Paul as its inspiration. That said, Dean has captured the BEST of Gibson's design and engineering, then improved upon it. I have owned several dozen LP's over the years. Within a few feet of where I'm typing this I have a 60th Anniversary '59 Reissue (maybe the very best LP I ever owned, but a $6500 instrument), a "The Les Paul" from the late 70's (maybe the most expensive guitar Gibson made until they got into signature and reissue instruments), a beautiful quilt-top Florentine, an '80 Standard, and a couple of others. At my age I am mostly selling, rather than buying. But short of an honest '59 'Burst, I've owned every LP that was ever on my "gotta have that" list. I was always an LP snob. Most of my guitar buddies were LP snobs. If not "LP" snobs, at least Gibson snobs. Although I tried dozens of LP-type instruments (by Epiphones and a whole host of other clones, including Chinese copies), I always felt the genuine Gibsons were the very best of what I was searching for. When I finally discovered Dean's Private Label, the handful of reviews I read in guitar magazines and online finally made me say, "what the hell" and I ordered one (a Dellatera). Mightily impressed, I ordered a "LaVoce". So here I go repeating myself... After playing Gibson LP's for 40-plus years, I found myself asking, "why in the hell hasn't Gibson done this?" I understand...I understand...Gibson has a winner with the LP and doesn't want to vary much from the successful formula. They might do a double-cutaway model, coil-tapping, fancy tops, etc. But they have done NOTHING like this. I own some Gibsons (very expensive Gibsons) that have tops like my LaVoce. I own some Gibsons that sound amazing and have a great playing feel. But I have NEVER owned a Gibson that has everything this LaVoce has. Let me start with weight, thickness, and body contours. Those alone are enough to make an old man consider jumping ship. The quilted top on this guitar is right up there with the very best Gibson, PRS, Carvin and others have produced. So as a thing of beauty, it's in the top ranks. But the sounds just put it over the top. Until you play with all the options (including acoustic sounds), you just can't truly understand why I'm leaving another review. The blonde (maple) neck I chose for mine has the Z-Glide treatment and has (for me) a slightly unusual V-shaped neck. "Why would they do that," I wondered. Well, the more you play it, the more you "get" it. The depth at the top (or bottom, as you see it), gives you leverage, but the slim shoulders make the neck feel much thinner than it really is. In short, it makes for an incredibly cool feel for playing. I can't help picking this guitar up half a dozen times a day and just playing acoustically. Not only is it visually inspiring, but it just fits your hands and body (mine, at least) like an old well-worn glove. So forgive me for this second review, and forgive me for sounding almost maudlin, but as of now, this is the favorite guitar I own. Here is the most important point I want to make. I just stumbled across DZPL guitars by reading a review (of the Dellatera) in a guitar magazine. Otherwise, I would have probably not known Dean was back in business making custom guitars. If I (after decades of loving Gibson LP's above all others) have discovered a replacement that blows them away, and if I (a Gibson snob) have to admit that I finally found something better, how long will it take for others like me to stumble across these wonderful instruments. Fellows (and maybe a lady or two), get these while you can, while they are still affordable (relatively), as I have a feeling someday these will be seen as something special.
My desert Island guitar arrived and I am so happy! I saw the video demonstration of the ATW pick up configuration and I was sold. I ordered a Strat style and finished it like a Les Paul with an Ebony fretboard. It's my StratoPaul. Or my LesCaster! I got chrome pick ups and a sunburst flamed top. It is absolutely the best of both worlds. Love the textured neck, the finishing is exquisite and it plays and sounds like a dream. And just look at it! The Vibrato system is amazing and stays in tune incredibly well. If I had to sell all of my guitars and keep one, this would be it. Amazing craftsmanship. I am so happy! Nice work Dean and Team!😀
I purchased both a Dellatera paisley and a LaVoce white engraved with tremalo. My Son, Grandson and I share them and love them.
If Dean does a twelve string, I'm on board.
I have had strait up many Dean Guitars for years. When DBZ production guitars came out I bought a Bolero, Then the Dean Zelinsky Guitars came out and I am generally skeptical of direct-to-consumer business models, I would see that as just a marketing term. Mr. Zelinski raised his game yet a third time, now after having many multiple era orig Dean guitars and 1 DBZ. I thought I would not invest in another venture, after all how many guitars does a guy need... Well apparently 1 more. So at first sight I fell in love with the radical quilts that Mr. Zelinski was doing, and he had a new twist a Zglide neck. And my curiosity got the best of me so I ordered it. I was told it was going to be a bit over a month to fill the order... Ok I hoped it was worth the wait. On a whim I sent an odd request. Could Mr Zelinski personalize my guitar and sign it and write my name on the guitar I order. I got an email back the next day. No problem it will be done.... Ok so they actually care and really do read emails. This is great. About 5 days later they emailed me and said they had one Guitar that was planned else where and it did not go and it was the model I ordered and would I like that one because It would ship right away. I asked back for pix of the actual guitar so I could see the Quilt. No prob later that day just as promised multiple pix of that guitar show up in my email... It is beautiful.. You bet go for it and it was shipped right away. When I got the guitar right away I opened the box and the first thing I see is a way above class case. It was fab tweed like a high end fender with the spider logo, I open it up and it has a beautiful velour guitar cover like a Gibson High end case.. Mr Zelinski skipped no detail. And the Guitar fit like a glove! I was very impressed, I slip back the covers and just as promised was the thing of beauty from the pix, they are good for their word. First thing I do is pick it up and flip it to see the back of the head stock and it was personalized to me with the date! Ok all the boxes were checked for what meets the EYE, how does it sound and how does it feel. Ok it balanced great, no head stock dive. after playing about every BC Rich that was a plus. That Z neck is terrific and it is quite fast!!!! Ok another plus. The trem works like a champ,,, And DOES STAY TUNED.... Check that box. The set up perfect, this is not a Guitar center set up, that the second you get it, you need to hand it over to your favorite tech to actually set it up. Nope this guitar is still in tune from Zelinski to me. And with the string gauge I asked for. Why set it up and change the string gauge right away only to have to tweak your set up. Another point of detail. I start to look at the details like high-end hardware, locking tuners, great knobs, smooth pots, no crackle nut set up and material. Good Plug. It is basically flawless. Ok Looks Check, Feel check, set up Check, components check. But a guitar is only as good as it sounds.. The most fab looking guitar is still junk if it sounds like garbage. So into the mesa amp it goes. At first I thought it sounded fine,,,, In the neck position great,,, but the bridge pup was kinda thin! I was just about to kick my self for going with that single coil pups. I should have done the humbuckers.... I was just about to email with what is required to swap the bridge for a humbucker pup. I was working in the studio on a song I had written and frankly got side tracked in the studio... I had been having a hard time getting a guitar tone that would cut this thick milkshake of a mix, this track had a lot going on. So I grabbed my new tool, plugged it in and recorded that part... That single coil cut through that mix like a LAZER. The guitar was perfectly heard, every note, but not irritating. I had to do NO EQ. It was exactly the tool I needed. But My new Tagliare cut right through and cleaned up the whole vibe.... saved my mix, made my mix job easier. So if you think crap this is just a bit thin,,, befor you grumble, try it with other musicians or in the studio! This may be a tad thin for noodling alone. But when it is time to actually work and not noodle in the bedroom this monster COMES ALIVE. Over all this is one of my faves and will not cycle out and be traded off as other guitars have. She is a keeper.
So, I went and an adventure looking for that guitar that looked, felt and would play like I wanted it to play. I went to big box stores testing and listening and playing my style of music. They sounded ok and felt ok. But then found Dean Zelinsky web site and got draw in to the LaVoice and all the features that were not available on comparable companies. So, I waited for Christmas to come around to talk the wife into letting me buy another guitar and all I had to do is place the order. I called their number and lo and behold, Dean answered the phone, what a conversation we had! I ordered that beautiful red flame top and I can truly say it plays like no other but I spoke to Dean who sold it to me! Great guitar! Keep it up!
I been a player for years built and studied guitars, This was my pick out of 3 brands including over priced Les Paul's. I'm so glad I purchased this guitar cause it has all the tones to fit the different genres of music I play, the craftsmanship , detail and all the bells and whistles you can ask for even the signed tweed case! Beautiful guitar and sound plus really nice case.
This guitar has exceeded all my expectations! Love the way it plays and the way it sounds on top of it being the most beautiful instrument I own!
Ordered a Dellatera flame top gold hardware coil split neck and bridge and single coil middle. Absolutely gorgeous and top quality build. Buy with complete confidence
After falling in love online with the DELLATERA ENGRAVED PAISLEY - Hybrid Nickel & Black Paisley, in my particular version, I ordered it. It was a risky love affair as I had never seen and played them before. Dean Zelinsky guitars are not available in Germany. You might find a used one somewhere in the ad market, but never this Type of guitar.
I was and still am surprised by the quality of the work and the sound - really customshop quality!
The guitar is a dream and some friends have said the same, after extensive testing!!!
Unfortunately I had a problem with a pickup, which was very well taken care of by the Dean Zelinsky team - TOP SUPPORT!!! THX!!!
The instrument was sent by UPS (unfortunately they worked very badly, so I had to wait 3 days or drive behind the instrument - UPS is not recommended for my place of residence Hamburg/Germany!!!).
THX a lot for all, Team Dean Zelinsky --> you are great!!!
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
I love my LaVoce. As a pro, I own about 30 guitars, the well-known brands as well as some especially for me, custom made, guitars. But this one is really special. Light weight, strong different tones. Excellent playability. When I first saw the back of the neck I thought, what might this be good for? would it bother me? No, it´s just great, liker all of the guitar.
I’m the proud owner of a Tagliare, a Dellaterra, a La Voce and a Strettavita! Without exception, they are so unique in tonal characteristics that I find different sonic traits in each one. Every one arrived in perfect ready -to-play setup with the 9’s I prefer. The Tag had a problem 5 way switch. I called. Dean himself answered! I explained the issue. I shipped it to him ( he paid!). Sent it back right away, after he QC’d it himself! The Z glide neck was not the reason I bought the guitar, but it is the reason I’m so glad that I bought the guitar!!
The tuners are so reliable! Even the strap buttons are big enough that I don’t feel the need to use the Schaller connectors. When all is said and done, I can only say one thing: Dude - get every spear penny you’ve got and buy yourself the best bargain in the world of guitars. You will not be disappointed. Oh, by the way, his carrying cases are effing awesome! Check out these beauties. These are the exact guitars that I own…finish and all! It’s OK TO DROOl, y’all
When I received my beautiful Lavoce last spring, I immediately fell in love with the look, feel and tone varieties and I provided a glowing review! But, everyone is excited to get a new guitar and the more valued feedback may come a few months later. I’m happy to say that I love my guitar even more now! The variety of tone options allow me to play along with all my favorite genres and the quality of the build is evident every time I pick it up. I’m so glad I chose a Dean Zelinsky guitar and hope to order another one some day!
I've now had my La Voce for about 6 months, and have simply not picked up my Les Paul Custom Shop since. I wanted to break it in before reviewing it, hence the 6 months. The physical balance of the La Voce is perfect for sitting and ridiculously comfortable standing. They did a flawless job on the frets (still zero fret sprout), and the Z-Glide neck as a "soft V" was instantly comfortable. Why have I not tried a soft V before? The TruTap pickup quality is superb and allows me to dial in about any tone I want. Super versatile. Thankfully, it stays in tune without a G-string issue. I could not be more pleased.
Ordered my guitar ,talked directly to Dean himself,very nice guy and helped me with my design and also signed it for me , bust sounding guitar I’ve played,Outstanding Thanks Dean
As a professional saxophone player who loves to collect guitars, I was never more than barely adequate at playing guitar. That all changed when I bought my first Dean Zelinsky private label Guitar. The fact that they are Gorgeous, extremely well-made instruments the pride of any collection, was satisfying enough. The unexpected bonus was that I enjoyed playing it so much more than my other guitars, that I spent hours upon hours playing it. As a result, I’ve become A better guitar player than I ever thought possible. I actually get hired more often as a guitar player than I do as a saxophone player now. I now have four DZPL guitars each and every one a joy to play. Thank you, Dean for making it possible for me to Continue my musical journey in a new and exciting direction. Your instruments have reinvigorated this old road Warrior.
I bought a used Tagliare. Played It a few days , jumped online and bought a Dellaterra with ATW . Played that a few weeks and bought a Taglitare ATW . I have 44 guitars . My DZPL s are my favorite electrics by far . The variations in tone are incredible !Do whatever you need to do to get a ATW . You won't be sorry !
I was in Chicago and searched Dean's studio/factor on the net. Next day me and my uncle we both visited him. I purchased a Tele style guitar from him. His guitar has the most comfort & excellent playability. It's a workhorse of a guitar, I can 100% depend on it for all my gigs, plays perfectly well each time. Dean himself had set it up and never again I had to make a change. Best investment ever, 110% satisfaction, just buy and play forever. Thank you Dean for guitar & your warm welcome.
Last year I purchased a La Voce. Loved it from the day it arrived. Still is my go to guitar. I have a few other guitars - the accoustic never even gets opened, my other 6 string hasn't been opened for over a year. I also have a custom built Ukelele, a 12 string acoustic/electric and a cheap arse bass. Still enjoying my DZ guitar and after playing that nexk all the others seem difficult. Highly recommended!
I’ve owned every kind of guitar money can buy in search of the perfect guitar. Spent 4700 on Tom Anderson well made but pickups are inferior to DZPL also PRs ce 24 again well made DZPL TRUMPS IT . Bought American made Ultra telecaster no match for the Dellatera . Just custom order from Zelinsky and be done. You will never walk into guitar center ever again and wish u had a guitar on the wall. Nothing comes close. Thanks Dean for building the best guitar in the world with all the tone in the world!
Beautiful Guitar. Sounds great. UPS
just left at my door .No signature was asked for. Didn't care for that..Not your fault.
Thank you for my BEAUTIFUL custom guitar! Gorgeous engraving and the tones are AMAZING!!!
Here I am writing my third review of a DZPL guitar. I already owned a Dellatera and Lavoce, which gave me a T-type and an LP-type by Dean. They each had quickly become among my all-time favorite instruments. In fact, I have sold some other guitars as a result. (I hope none of my Gibson buddies are reading this.) Unfortunately, I frequently get e-mails from DZPL showing new instruments with new finishes, and they often tempt me beyond my capabilities to resist. I saw one guitar with a paisley carved top, and antique gold finish, and all gold hardware. I quickly e-mailed to see if I could get a Tagliare (S-type guitar) in that same finish, with a tremolo and pearloid pickguard. Dean himself responded and within a few exchanges, I had my new guitar on order. Within a month or so it arrived in a super-cool tweed case. Once again, when I opened the case I was looking at a real work of art. It's just amazing to me how something that plays and sounds so wonderful can also be so beautiful! We had discussed that since this was an S-type guitar, I wanted Fendery type sounds, so Dean advised the SideKick pickups. With coil-taps and phase switching, this gives 18 great tones (thankfully, a cheat-sheet comes with the guitar to help you find your way). Once again, I got the Z-Glide neck, which is a dream to play. Everything about this guitar is top-notch. Plays great, sounds great, and looks simply amazing! Thank you Dean and Company...once again you have MADE MY DAY!
