“The technology available today is being way under-utilized,” says Zelinksy, who is no longer associated with the company that still bears his name. “This industry is stuck in the Dark Ages. It needs another shot in the arm.”

DBZ—which unveiled examples of the full line at the Winter NAMM Show this past January—is taking a “custom motorcycle” approach to its designs by using exotic woods, laser technology, and proprietary graphics. This focus will encompass all DBZ offerings, whether they are high-end U.S.A. custom guitars, or more affordable models manufactured offshore. (At press time, the DBZ models spanned from $299 to above $3,000.) In addition, Zelinksy himself will participate in the online DBZ Guitar Forum, discussing player wish lists, construction options, and other design subjects with DBZ owners and guitar fans alike.

“We wanted to give Dean a chance to be Dean again,” says Diamant. “Left purely to his own inspiration, he is an artist who makes elegant and playable guitars—guitars that can help a player find his or her own voice. In fact, Dean approached every DBZ model with the needs of a specific player in mind, and, as a result, every DBZ guitar has its own individual character designed to enhance a particular style of performance and technique.” dbzguitars.com.