A new chapter in the legacy of Dimebag Darrell has officially begun with the launch of Dime GuitarZ, a company founded by legendary guitar designer Dean Zelinsky and Rita Haney, Dimebag’s longtime partner.
On the company, Haney offered: “The mission is simple. To build the guitars Dimebag Darrell would be playing today. There seems to be a misconception that Dime had a relationship with the Dean Guitars of today. It simply isn’t true… Darrell never had a relationship with them. He was killed three weeks after signing the deal. He had a relationship with Dean Zelinsky. He went there because DZ brought him there, that was Dime’s only relationship.
“Dean Zelinsky built the beloved guitars he played including the Dean From Hell. That is who Dime wanted building his guitars and he stated that many times throughout his notes. In this case, imitation isn’t flattery, it’s a crime! Dime played Dean Zelinsky’s MLs when he had braces on his teeth and he died with one in his arms. Dime’s innovation for tech, his love and trust of DZ’s brilliance, THIS is what the direction of this company is, to fulfill those wishes.”
Zelinsky: “I’ve been fortunate to have a long and incredible career in the guitar business. I’ve had the opportunity to design guitars for some of the world’s greatest players, build successful companies, and spend my life doing what I love.
“At this stage of my career, there is nothing I would rather be doing than building the Dime GuitarZ line. Darrell did so much for my personal brand. Playing my guitar so prominently helped to introduce my designs to players all over the world. More importantly, Darrell was one of the most unique individuals I ever met. Authentic, loyal, passionate, and completely dedicated to his craft. I am actually most proud to call him my friend.
“This project is all about continuing the legacy of one of the most influential guitar players who ever lived. If there’s one thing I know for certain, Dime would never want us standing still. He’d be sitting right beside me, pushing boundaries, constantly taking his original designs to the next level to create the ultimate metal guitars.
“Keeping Darrell’s Guitar Designing Legacy alive is an opportunity to give back to a friend who gave so much to me. His guitar playing fans throughout the world deserve to be able to get the real thing. After all the smoke clears from this 20-year saga, Darrell’s Guitar Designing Legacy will still be important to millions around the world. After everything I’ve accomplished in this industry, helping carry Darrell’s legacy forward may be the most meaningful work I’ve ever done.”
Also in the fold is Dimebag’s longtime guitar tech and close friend, Grady “Dragon” Champion: :What can I say about my passion for all things Dime… he brought me into his world, taught me everything he liked and everything his sound was about. It all started with the guitars! The most important part was the guitar, and how it felt to him. I am honored to help bring Dime’s feel to these, plus to continue in that innovative spirit.. Dime would be proud.. This is my purpose!”
The First Taste of Dime GuitarZ
revered by players and collectors alike, the Culprit makes its highly anticipated comeback in a lineup of iconic Dimebag Darrell signature finishes, including Dime Slime, Dime Bolt, Black Jack, and more.
Built in the USA, the new Culprit incorporates some of Dean Zelinsky’s most innovative technologies, including laser-engraved snakeskin body treatments and his patented Z-Glide Neck for unparalleled speed and playability.
The Z-Glide Neck is a proprietary laser-engineered process developed by Dean Zelinsky to dramatically reduce friction and enhance playing comfort. By strategically removing portions of the neck’s surface, the design minimizes hand-to-neck contact for a faster, smoother feel. As Zelinsky explains, “We remove 72% of the neck’s surface. Your hand only comes in contact with 28% – the rest is air.”
Every Dime Culprit is also equipped with the all-new DimeBooster circuit. With a simple pull of the push/pull tone control, players can instantly unleash up to 15 dB of powerful, clean boost on demand. Unlike traditional active boost systems, DimeBooster requires no battery. A quick 60-second charge via USB-C delivers more than 20 hours of boosted performance, ensuring you’re always ready to hit the stage at full throttle.
Where Can You Find Dime GuitarZ?
Dime GuitarZ will be available at dimeguitarz.com, Thomann.de in Europe and many other retailers coming onboard.
