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FEEDBACK

What do customers think of the guitars and service they receive here at JSD's Guitar Shack? Read some of the testimonials and e-mails I've received below and find out.

 

If you've bought something recently and want to say a few words about it for the world to see please feel free to send in a testimonial telling about yourself, your new guitar or your shopping experience here. If your not too shy include a picture, sound clips, video or whatever you'd like and I'll be glad to put it up on the site.

 

A big THANK YOU to all that take the time to get back to me with a little feedback, its greatly appreciated!!

 

 

Bill - Dillion LP Jr Style Guitar

Hi Kevin,

 

The LP Junior arrived about an hour ago and all I have to say is WOW! What a sweet guitar! I have been playing it through an Egnater Tweaker tube amp and a 12" Celestion G12M-25 Greenback and it sounds great. The finish is beautiful, the hardware is good, and the tone is fantastic. Considering that a Gibson LP Junior is currently $2,500 this guitar is a tremendous value. I could not ask for a nicer guitar - actually that isn't true - I plan on ordering a LP through you at some point. Will any Goldtops be available in the future? That's always been my favorite finish on a LP. Thanks from a very satisfied customer.

 

Sincerely,

Bill

 

Doug Casper - Dillion 12 String Fireglo Semi Hollow Body Style

Hi Kevin,

 

Just wanted to say thanks again!

 

To all those looking for that 12 string R** that we've all lusted for since The British Invasion. Buy one of these DILLION 12 STRING FIREGLO ROCKINBETTER SEMI HOLLOW BODY guitars!!! I have owned a R**' 360/6, and as I told Kevin through one of my many e-mails to him, this guitar is as close to a bonefide R**' as one can get. The build quality is as nice or better, sans a couple of cosmetic things, like knobs, strap locks, which have no bearing on the way this guitar plays, or sounds. A thirty five dollar upgrade that made me happy, that's just me, that's all...

 

If you take a good look at this guitar, it has the features of both the 360, and 330 regarding the bound body, and F-Hole features, also the aged finish - one of my favorites! Like I said, after comparing the R**' to this, the color, the body design of the 330, what more could you ask for?

 

A neck width that some one with big mits like myself can play! The main reason I wanted this guitar, everything else was gravy.

 

Also!

 

Kevin is tops in answering any questions, not to mention his punctuality in shipping and delivery, as well as the care of wrapping up these guitars insuring they get to you in one piece. It literally took me about fifteen minutes to unwrap it. I live in Southwest Florida USA which is quite a distance to ship anything, especially Canada. The package arrived faster then shipments from people like MusiciansFriend whom I deal with regularly, and it wasn't just thrown in a box with some brown paper. It came bubble wrapped, sealed in plastic wrap with corrugation too boot. You could toss this thing off a building, and have it bounce right back. That's some one who cares!

 

Once again, a great guitar, a great value, and a great Dealer. I hope to order the John Lennon 325 Rockinbetter in the future...

 

Kevin told me it would arrive on a Thursday, it arrived on Monday - I was stoked!

 

I Luv' it!!!

 

Best Regards

 

Doug Casper

Dan Paterno - Dillion DRG-45 Rockinbetter Bass Guitar

Kevin,

 

I made yet another great investment when I bought the Black Rockinbetter Bass from your store. Not only is this the most solid, toneful R** style bass I have ever played, it may be the best bass I have ever owned. I'm talking about the full, P-bass quality of the E string and the way it blends with the other powerful strings; we're talking major bottom end with plenty of growl and bite in the mid and top end. From top to bottom, this bass is one smooth, even-toned monster: no dead spots.

 

Anyone who says that any replica of of genuine R** is "firewood" is either ignorant or an elitist. I'll put this up against ANY R** bass, anytime, and this thing will kick the R**'s ass across the continent back to Santa Ana, California.

 

I have come to the conclusion that set-neck basses are superior to thru-neck; the tone transfer to the body is smoother. Thru-necks focus all the vibrations in a narrow field, whereas the set-neck allows the vibrations to spread throughout the body. I have owned 3 thru-neck basses(2 R**s and an Aria Pro SB 700) and I have sold them all.

 

This bass is better at 1/3 the price.

 

Oh yeah, the service from JSD was Great! Received the bass in a week. It was packed professionally, and it took me a half hour to unwrap it.

 

Dan

Duncan - Dillion DRG-40 Rockinbetter Vintage Style Guitar

Hi Kevin,

 

Just a quick note to let you know that the guitar arrived this afternoon safe and sound! That's incredible given the distance it's had to come!

 

It was packed beautifully and your service and communication has been second to none. For such a reasonably priced guitar it has an incredible finish. I own 3 genuine R**s and the difference doesn't warrant the price difference!

 

Thanks again, and I hope to be a repeat customer one day.

 

Regards,

Duncan (Australia)

Erwin - Dillion DRG-45 Rockinbetter Bass Guitar

Hi Kevin,

 

After thirteen days I got my Dillion DRG-45 Rockinbetter Bass Guitar (black) here in The Netherlands. It was very well packed and my first impression was: Wow, this looks like a real R** 4001/4003!

 

I plugged it into a guitar amp just for testingand sounded awesome. Playability is great, plays light and stays in tune.Feels solid and looks like a quality intrument!

 

I'm glad I did not buy a R**!

Buy Dillion for a lifetime!

Big Earl - Dillion LP Jr Style Guitar

Howdy!

 

Finally got a couple of minutes here. Picked up the guitar last week. Man, wrapped to survive a trip to the Arctic! Very *very* nice axe, man. Very impressed. Just wanted to say thanks - you got yourself another customer!

 

Later...

Sean - Dillion SG Style Guitars

Kevin,

 

Sorry it took so long to reply. I love the guitar. I own several Korean made guitars that I really like, (such as a PRS SE semi-hollow with P-90's, and an Agile DC-2500 with P-90's), some nice USA made guitars, and I had an Epiphone Elitist SG a few years back, but the Dillion is really, really nice. How you can sell these without G** coming down on you I just don't know. These blow away the Chinese made Epiphones. As soon as I can afford it, the 12 string R** clone will be mine.Thanks again for the super quick shipping, (I'm not that far away but still, nice job), and offering such a quality bargain that will go head to head with guitars 4 times in price.

 

All the best, Sean.

Jeff - Dillion LP Jr Style Guitar

Hi Kevin ;

 

My TV JR showed up here yesterday ,very well packed ,arrived safe and sound.

 

Man I love it !!!!! It plays and sounds better than my Epiphones do.

 

I'm super pleased with it ,so I'll be contacting you again in the near future for another Dillion.

 

Thanks again -I'll be sure to put a plug for your store ,and Dillion Guitars in the credits for my next CD.

 

Cheers ;
Jeff

Antoine T - Dillion SG Style Guitars

Hi Kevin,

The SG arrived in perfect condition. It's exactly how I expected it. I tried it with my poor guitar skills. Electronics seems reliable, volume/tone buttons responds really well. It still feels brand new so needs to be played a lot to soften the strings and seems you got another satisfied costumer ;)

 

Thanks,

Antoine T

Berry - Dillion DRG-45 Rockinbetter Bass Guitar

Greetings Kevin,

 

The bass arrived Monday the 17th. At the moment, I'm putting it through its paces. It's a little neck heavy, but I think I'll get used to that. It's loud and can get a treblely sound with the right settings. It's a very good bass. (On a whim, I just googled R** copy basses and found out about Rockinbetter basses, which eventually lead to finding your website, I didn't know these existed until a couple of weeks ago). Anyway, it feels more natural now playing Sgt. Pepper era Beatles, the Who, early Rush and Genesis and Yes songs.

 

Many thanks,

Barry

Sean - Dillion DRG-45 Rockinbetter Bass Guitar

I received the bass a couple days ago, and I couldn't be happier! My girlfriend has threatened to leave me if I don't put it down, but I can't. Seriously, it's a great bass for the money and I'm really glad I found your store. Thanks for everything.

George - Indie IRK Bass Guitar

I received my Indie IRK5 last week and played it at a gig on Saturday night. I have to say that I've bought a few guitars on line but none have ever been packed as well as this one. Also included was a great gig bag and little package with a couple of guitar picks, a business card and the truss rod adjustment wrench....a very nice touch. The guitar arrived in perfect condition and is as nice in person as in the picture. I have taken it to my guitar tech and changed out the tailpiece for a vintage R model and replaced the knobs with vintage bakelite R knobs. It sounds and looks great. I love the neck, so much better than the guitar that it's modeled after and the fit and finish was perfect. Not bad for 600.00!! Don't be afraid to purchase an Indie guitar, they are everything you might hope they'd be and are at the very least a thousand less than an original. Sound is very very close. A great buy and don't be afraid to buy online from JSD....they will take care of you.

Joe - Dillion DRG-45 Rockinbetter Bass Guitar

Hey Kevin, I got the bass today and it feels good. I played it through my small cube amp at home and compared it to my R**s and so far I like it. I have a gig Saturday and I'll bring it and one of the R**s and give it a workout.

 

AFTER GIG UPDATE... I played two sets with the bass Saturday. Sounded good and felt good everyone thought I brought two R**s with me. Even my guitarist thought I bought another R** so everything is cool with the bass and I'm glad I got it. Again thanks for your help and when I put a few bucks together I think I might get one of the guitars.

 

Talk to you soon, Joe

Judicaël - Dillion Korina Flying V Guitar DFV-58K

Hi Kevin! I've received the guitar this week ! Nice guitar regarding to the price, I'm going to upgrade it with a set of Gibson pickups.

 

Thanks for all!

 

Best regards,

Judicaël (from France)

Craig - Dillion LP Special Style Guitars DLPS-60

Man I got the Dillion LP SPCL!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Blowing my mind. It is even better than the SG Jr. and Firebird.

Chris - Dillion 12 String Fireglo Semi Hollow Body Style

Hi Kevin,

 

The guitar just arrived today. Fantastic man. Really well built, great finish and a real comfortable player. I like the wider neck too! Feels a bit more like a Gibson 12-string, and sounds similar too, but it's real easy to tweak the amp knobs and get the classic R** jangle. Once I change the strings when I do the setup, it'll be perfect I'm sure. Boy, did the other guys in the band miss out!

 

Thanks again for your help. Looking forward to doing more business with you down the road.

Jim Rice - Dillion Firebird Style Guitar

Hi Kevin,

 

The Dillion Firebird arrived safe and sound thanks in no small part to your excellent packing job. I've been playing for nearly 40 years and must have owned close to 80 guitars in that time. This Dillion is a really nice instrument; fit and finish are terrific. These are really high quality, low cost guitars. Thanks for everything!

Darren - Indie IRK5 12 String Semi Hollow

Hi Kevin,

 

Just received the guitar yesterday but due to night duty I only opened it today! What can I say, its just the best! I thought the pickup switches' black knob was missing and then discovered it incased in the case which is pretty cool, often I've received guitars with those items missing or broken and then had to go looking for replacements! Anyway the sound is fantastic and believe me if I come looking for more R** copies I'll be in contact! Thanks so much!

 

Kindest Regards and Many thanks

Darren

Dan Paterno - Indie IRK Bass Guitar

It has taken me a while to get back to you regarding my latest purchase from your fine guitar shoppe, but I found the time to put the bass down and compose this letter. The Indie fireglo bass is another keeper! The finish is professionally sprayed, and absolutely beautiful to behold -- as good as any finish I've ever seen on a guitar. And, talk about comfort? This bass is lightweight and as comfortable as a slim 17-year-old hottie on a cold Manitoba night. Oh, you say, the tone must suffer because of the lightweight body. . . . well.--it's all there: the solid, thick bottom and the unmistakable R** punch on top. I love this bass. The only downside, which I have overcome, was the fretwork: I needed to level and crown the frets for maximum playability and even clicky-ricky tone. Now the Mother-effer is ready for combat and a whole bunch of original tunes.

Thanks for the great service.
Dan

Paul - Indie Shape Series Stripe

Kevin, I thought I'd get back to you with a little feedback for this wonderful guitar I received for Christmas. What a pleasant surprise it was to open this gift up Christmas morning. The looks, totally stunning! Its the same color as my car, stripe and all. I'm also very impressed with the quality. What a great guitar! My wife also thanks you for all the help with ordering and quick shipping, she said you also packed it very well.

 

Thanks so much, I'll be back!

 

*Paul*

Sam - Dillion 12 String Fireglo Semi Hollow Body Style

Thank you kevin, I love the Dillion. I got it for christmas and I could never be happier. Instead of sending a picture I will send you videos of me playing it so here you go, you can choose. Some are me and my bass player. In the end this will be one of the best guitars I'll have in my life!

 

Sam's Video 1

Sam's Video 2

Sam's Video 3

Sam's Video 4

Craig - Dillion SG Jr Style Guitars

I just received my SG Jr. in white from you here in Texas. What a fantastic guitar! My expectations were truly exceeded.

 

Thanks so much for the fantastic guitar.

 

Craig.

 

Dan Paterno - Dillion 12 String Fireglo Semi Hollow Body Style

The Rockinbetter 12-String far exceeded my expectations for a guitar in the $600 range. I have owned a R** 330 and a R** 12-string; the Rockinbetter is built as well as, if not better than, the American guitars. The finish is exquisite and mirror-like. I like the slightly wider fingerboard as well. The action and intonation on the \"Rocky\" was great right out of the box -- VERY easy to play. The Gibson style bridge adds sustain and tuning stability -- no need for a 12-saddle on this baby! The only things about the guitar which need to be hot-rodded are the pickups. The humbuckers sure are quiet, but they squash some of the high-end sparkle and zing I need from a maple body guitar. With a set of vintage single coils, the Rockinbetter will become a permanent addition to many of my recordings and live performances.

ZZZZZZZZINGG!!!!!!!

Dan Paterno

p.s. the Indie basses are lookin good. Are they built to the same high-quality standards as the Dillions? JSD's note: Yes, they are!!

Derek B - Dillion DRG-40 Rockinbetter Vintage Style Guitar

Thanks very much, I love the guitar. You did an excelent packing job. Every thing is great. The action is a little high for me but it plays great. I will use it for a while and sometime down the road, take it in to lower the action just a bit and then set it up again. I really love it!

Thanks again. I will recomend you to all my friends.

Sincerely,
Derek

Jerry - Dillion DRG-40 Rockinbetter Vintage Style Guitar
and the Dillion 12 String Fireglo Semi Hollow Body Style

Kevin, received the guitars just in time for Christmas. They are absolutley beautiful and a joy to play. I love them both! I really like the cheeky "Rockinbetter" truss rod covers you included. I'm looking at those Indie bass guitars now so you may be hearing from me again soon.

 

Thanks a million (or should I say Dillion) for the great service and these great guitars.

Jerry

Tommy - Dillion 12 String Fireglo Semi Hollow Body Style

Hey Kevin, just a quick note to say thank you for a wonderfull guitar. I received the 12 string Fireglo yesterday and it is just as beautiful as you said it was. I can't believe the quality of this guitar for what I paid. The neck is perfect, it actually plays better than my original Fireglo!

Thanks again and you'll be seeing another order from me again real soon. Tommy

Mike - Dillion DRG-40 Rockinbetter Vintage Style Guitar

I received my DRG-40 the day before Thanksgiving. Spent some time over the holiday to evaluate the guitar. I am sorry I doubted you, I really like the sound and the feel. I have two mid 60's R 360's, one natural color six string and a fireglo 12 string. I actually prefer the sound of the DRG-40. The finish and workmanship appear to be very good. It was in reasonable tune and set up very nicely right from the box. I would recommend this guitar to all.

THANKS AGAIN
Mike

Steve - Indie Guitars IPR Double Cut Flame Top

Thanks again for the guitar. I\'ve owned over 35 guitars played a million shows and I must say this new line your carrying (Indie) rocks! I have never seen and played a guitar as nice as this one and I have owned guitars that where worth in the thousands. The instrument stays in perfect tune even though I tried ripping off the strings. Anyhow this is an excellent purchase and I strongly suggest this guitar to anyone!

Stanley C - Dillion Firebird Style Guitar

Hi Kevin, love this guitar. Had the white Dillion Firebird for two months now and can't put it down. My Dillion LP 58 jr must be getting jealous. Was hoping to send you pictures of my overall collection but haven't had time, soon though. Thanks again for your help and taking care of my needs. Very appreciated. I'll send pics soon.

 

Stanley

Jim C - Dillion SG Style Guitars

Hi Kevin, Thanks for your excellent customer service regarding my order. It came by slowboat but was well worth the wait. The Dillion SG for the money is the best value out there. The build quality of this instrument is far superior to Epiphone which other than the elitist series to me feels like a cheap toy copy of an SG. I speak from experience I have owned Epiphone and other than the name on the headstock this Dillion SG feels like any Gibson standard SG I have played without the big price tag. I can speak from experience. I have owned Gibson SG standards as well as the gothic SG, and Iommi SG all Gibsons and this Dillion SG build quality is equal and better for value. The quality of the woods used to make this guitar are fantastic and the guitar was packed so well for shipment it could have circled the globe twice and I believe it would have still have arrived with no damage. I will definitely order again if you get more of the les paul model.

 

Thanks again for a great transaction.

Best regards,
Jim C

Robert - Dillion LP Style Guitar DXC-650F

Hi, I got my guitar yesterday; I'm in Barbados so I had to wait on it to come in a container from Miami. Anyway it arrived in excellent shape - COMPLIMENTS ON THE PACKING - it sure is a beauty; I haven't plugged it in yet but I'm sure that it will sound as great as it looks.

 

Thanks again,
Robert

Charlie - Roxbury Guitars RX-40 Master Shredder

Got the guitar today, beautiful guitar, great packing! Hope to get the Dillion V next month.

 

Thanks,
Charlie

Phil - Dillion LP Jr Style Guitar

Hi Kevin, the DXC-58 arrived today. Very nice! It took very little adjusting out of the case to lower the action just a bit to my liking and I've been strumming 12 bar blues on it and loving it! Thanks for the great deal.

 

I used to own a cherry Gibson LP Jr back in 1970, (but lost it to a burglar back then, oh the pain!). The DCX-58 is a very worthy and affordable replacement to satisfy my recent bout of guitar collecting and nostalgia!

 

Thanks again!
Phil

 

Listen to Phil's rendition of "Gloria" played with his Dillion LP Jr

Chris Wright - Roxbury SingleCut Guitars RX-80F Flame Top

Let me start off by saying this is the third guitar that I've bought from Kevin at JSD's Guitar Shack. Excellent all round service each time and great products, that's why I keep coming back. The first guitar I bought was a Tokai Love Rock custom model with a 3 tone burst finish, wonderful guitar. I liked that one so much I thought I'd try one of the PRSeries guitars in a tangerine flame finish. Again a great guitar. Both guitars have served me well over the last few years and still do to this day.

 

Well those GAS pains came calling again when I saw the new Roxbury guitars being offered by Kevin so I had to try one out. When I talked to him about them he told me that I would be very impressed with the Roxbury since I liked my Tokais so much, man was he right. I ended up getting the violin finish Roxbury singlecut flame top and man 'o man this guitar is awesome! To say I was impressed with this guitar would be an understatement. I love this guitar! The import line of PRS singlecuts do not compare to this guitar. The guitar plays like a dream, is built like a tank and has sustain for days. All the hardware is top notch, the pickups sound great, most notably the neck. Creamy like butter baby, I was kicking out some bluesy Clapton type tones, added a little overdrive and wah and it sounded like Slash was in the house, Sweet Child tone nailed.

 

This guitar just became my #1 go to guitar, I may just have to get another.

 

Thanks again Kevin for another great guitar!
Chris Wright

Russ - Dillion LP Jr Style Guitar

Kevin! I LOVE it!!! What a great axe! I played it so much yesterday my fingers are sore...I can't figure out how they make them for such a low cost with that kind of quality. Thanks for the great service and I'll be dealing with you again I'm sure. Your service is the best I've experienced with internet purchasing and I'm very grateful.

 

Thnx!!
Russ

Drake K - Dillion Korina Flying V Guitar DFV-58K

Hello Kev, my V has arrived! I'm blown away, this guitar is wicked. The Dillion V kills the Epi V I was considering, I'm so glad I didn't buy it. The fit and finish is awesome, excellent fretwork and it plays great. Its exactly what you said it was. Thanks for all your help during this transaction, I know I bugged you a lot with questions and picture requests but you were very helpful and patient with me on my first online guitar transaction. I will definitely be back and also recommend you to everyone!

 

All the best!
Drake K

Mark - Dillion LP Jr Style Guitar

Hey Kevin, I got my guitar yesterday. It smokes!!! I am blown away by the quality. WAY better than I expected for the price.

 

Thanks man,
Mark

Andy P - Dillion Korina Flying V Guitar DFV-58K

Its here! All I can say right now is WOW! Once unwrapped I just sat there staring at it, its gorgeous! This guitar is awesome, feels great, plays great. Its exactly what I was hoping for. Thank you so much!

 

JSD's Guitar Shack and Dillion Guitars ROCK!!!
Andy P

Eric - Dillion SG Style Guitars

Hey! It arrived yesterday, I opened the package, and it was flawless. This guitar feels soooo good, and my god is it beautiful. It feels really easy to play, as well. You know, I've never even picked up a Gibson guitar before, but I seriously cannot imagine a guitar feeling better than this one. Nice doing business with you, Kevin! Thanks for being completely up front about everything, and always answering my questions. I will be sure to direct my friends, or anyone for that matter, to your website if they're looking for a new guitar.

 

Thanks,
Eric

Hoyt D - Dillion LP Style Guitars DXC-650F

Kevin, I just wanted to send you an email and let you know I received my guitar unharmed and it was package extremely well. Hell it took me 10 minutes to get it unpacked so thank you for the awesome job the guitar is everything I was hoping for great sound & quality. Couldn't have asked for more I will be doing business with you in the future I am sure. Also if you ever get any new dillions in let me know cause I just might want one.

 

Thank You Very Much,
Hoyt D

Bob M - Dillion LP Jr Style Guitar

Hi Kevin. Picked up the DXC-58 at the post office tonight. I pretty much love everything about this guitar, the simplicity, the color, the neck, the feel !!! I'm using it with a vintage Fender Stage Lead amp and I LOVE the tone!!! Great packing! Hope to do business with you again soon.

 

Best Regards,
Bob M

 

Review of the Dillion Rockinbetter Guitar - By Joe Gomez

Whenever I look at reviews, I really want to know something about the reviewer. After all, if the reviewer can only play Heavy Metal, his review is less meaningful to a hard core old time rock and roller such as myself. I have been playing a very long time, and I grew up in the 60’s and 70’s. The Beatles, Stones, Hendrix, they were all real time for me. Although classically trained (I studied one summer with Andres Segovia), against my father’s serious objections, I could never get the rock and roll out of my blood. So my style is classic rock, with serious blues, some Metal and a touch of country in the mix. When I hear a lick I like, I don’t care where it comes from, I’ll pick up the closest axe and get it down. I have literally owned hundreds of guitars, still own over 50, and have owned not one but two models after which the Rockinbetter is modeled, and also a poor copy many years ago. Although I was never a full time pro, I did manage to tour locally with a Beatles tribute show called “The Cavern” staring the some ex Beatlemania members (I was the “George”) and did countless weddings and other gigs.

 

The Sale:
Although I really did hate the guitars after which the Rockinbetter is designed, I came across someone with a Dillion Rockinbetter that actually stayed in tune! I was told by the owner the magic secret of these guitars(see below).I loved the guitar and how it was set up, so, needing something I could play around with while watching TV or lying on the sofa, I set out to find a Dillion of my own. Not an easy task. Here in the states, finding a guitar of this style is almost impossible, and if you do find one, it’s really junk. So off to Google I went and checked out everything I could find. Finally, I came to www.jsdguitarshack.com. I saw the guitar, and bought it on the spot. Remember, I had already played this guitar. During the sale and shipping time (I got the guitar 2 days ahead of schedule, but it just seemed forever, I had the pleasure of meeting via email, a very nice man named Kevin. Americans expect people from Canada to be nice, and Kevin, true to form, kept me closely informed of my new baby’s progress every step of the way. Even after the sale, he emailed me to make sure everything was as I expected. I have bought Les Paul’s that cost $5000+. I never got anything from Gibson. Maybe Gibson’s email is in my junk mail folder?

 

First Impressions:
The instrument came extremely well packed, and within the box, it had been wrapped like an overstuffed mummy in bubble wrap. Not even the US post office could hurt this baby! Identical to what I had seen on the web site, the guitar was flawless. Nothing over sprayed, no warped neck, no hairline cracks on the neck, just a good solid little guitar. The neck was joined correctly to the body (not always the case with Fender). It came delivered to my office where I have an old Peavy amp. I tuned her up and plugged her in. Being the boss, I can do that. Right?

 

Test drive:
I looked at her for a while, and thought to myself, “I can believe you bought yet another one of these things”. I tuned her up, and although I test every guitar I have ever bought by playing “Blackbird” first (I don’t know why), on this baby I just had to play the rhythm part of “All my loving”. Remember I can still see in my mind, John Lennon play that song for the first time in the US on the Ed Sullivan Show. In black and white! She was awesome! Even with factory strings!

 

The Sound:
Although having a sexy axe is cool, the sound really makes it or breaks it. The Dillion, sounds a little on the full side, more like Gibson Humbuckers. You still get a jingle-jangle classic sound, but this is a little richer. This could be good or bad depending on what you are after. My performing days are over, and the good thing about that is that I only have to please myself (and my wife who puts up with all this stuff). Frankly it works fine for me. Using a little programming on my modeling amp and I was able to get pretty close to the sound this guitar type is famous for.

 

Conclusion:
Over the years, I have laid down some serious cash on this ¾ guitar style. Frankly I think this instrument is as good, and probably better than I remember the originals to be. Remember this instrument is about 1/5 the price of the original. I have this bad girl about a month, and still pick her up every day and at least play “All my loving”. That’s about 3 weeks longer than I played any of the others.

The Secret to this guitar:
Lennon fans know that he bought the original of this little girl in 1958 in Hamburg Germany. The reason he bought it was because of the incredible action and it’s smaller size. He too played his guitar lying in bed at night. To make this baby just perfect, here is what you do. The Lennon guitar is a bit tricky to tune because the neck is 3/4 the size of a standard guitar (25.5 inches). The trick is to use 'Flatwound Gold Heavy - True Vintage' strings that are designed for the Lennon style guitar. Second, tune the guitar a half step down than standard guitar tuning. (Half step down tuning is also used by Van Halen, and lots of other rockers.) With these strings you can get the action way, way down without her buzzing. A little adjustment to the bridge, a little to the truss, a very minor file job here and there, and she will play like you could never believe. If you are afraid to do this yourself, fork over the $60-$100 bucks for a great (not good) setup. I promise you will see what I mean. Watch an early Beatles video. This is how he did it. Now you know too! Rock on!

 

What now?:
I love it, I play it, and I did not have to sell my dog to own it. Sounds perfect right? I just can not help it, it’s a a flaw in me. She on the workbench right now. She is getting a new Bigsby B5 tremelo, Burns knobs, and all other the Lennon mods. I am also working on a gold pick guard and truss rod cover. She is like any other fine lady. She needs “Bling”.

Jeff W - Dillion Firebird Style Guitar

Hello Kevin, just thought I'd give you a little feedback on the Dillion Firebird. First off the guitar was packed very well and it arrived safe and sound. Once I got it unwrapped I was very pleased with what I saw, flawless white finish with gold hardware and 3 mini buckers, its even better looking in real life! It was exactly as you described it and was set up well right out of the box, the only thing I did was restring it with a set of D'Addario strings. It plays very nice, unplugged has a nice ring to it but plugged in I'm discovering all kinds of new tones with these 3 mini buckers, my first guitar with 3 pickups in it. They sound very good and offer a wide range of tones from clean and clear to hot rocking, I love it! This guitar is a keeper. I honestly don't have anything bad to say about it.

 

I myself have been playing for over 20 years, dabbling in a little blues & country but mostly rock and have owned many different guitars from cheap to expensive and I am very pleased with the deal I got here. I've owned guitars that have cost me 2 or 3 times more that the Dillion puts to shame, never again will I blow that kind of dough thanks to great guitars like this. I've got my eye on a few others on the site so we'll be doing business again soon.

 

Thanks once again, Jeff.

Dean - Dillion LP Jr Style Guitar

Hey Kev, I got the Jr today and its just like you said it was. Its a solid little guitar and fun to play. Great packing job too! I'll be recommending you to all my friends and you can be sure I'll be back.

 

Thanks, Dean

Peter - Dillion SG Style Guitar

Hi Kevin I received the guitar to today and I am really pleased with it. Thank You for all you have done and some day I will buy again from you once again!

 

Thank you and take care,
Peter

Betty - Fina Acoustic/Electric Guitar

Thank you for the most gorgeous guitar I have ever seen. It was well packaged and was worth waiting for. It came as you said and is beautiful and unique. The sound is great.

 

Thanks,
Betty

Guy P - Artec Cubix G1R Amplifiers

Hi! Just wanted to let you know that I received the amp yesterday. I plugged my strat in and put the amp on the blues Drive, WOW, what an awesome blues tone from a $100 amp.

 

With the right bass/middle/treble settings, I get a nice SRV tone. The o.d. Drive gives me a great southern rock tone. The clean and the acoustic sounds almost the same but no hum or noises like most budget amps. At $60 less than the roland micro-cube, it's an awesome deal. The micro-cube might have better metal distortion but it sound like crap on clean, so I'd rather plug my metal zone pedal in the Artec and have the best of both worlds. Thank you!

 

You'll be getting more business from me soon. Guy

 

Joseph Sanita - Dillion LP Jr Style Guitar

Kevin, this thing will BITE the hand that feeds it!

 

JUST A FACT: A One Trick Pony only does one thing well.

 

THE TRUTH: The 58 Lp Jr has left it's mark in Rock n Roll History. In 1958 This guitar was meant to be a student guitar. Its lack of a hole cut out for the neck pickup gave it a faster reaction time than the Lp custom. The P-90 pickup meant the pole pieces were 1/4'' farther up then a humbucker. On top of that it was the most powerful single coil pickup in the world nearly twice that of a Fender pickup. The wrap around bridge means instant BITE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hold on for YOUR LIFE!!

 

My name is Joseph Sanita: This is My Axe of Choice They Never say NO to a good time What They cost today $12,000.00 To $30,000.00 I Know I collect them!!!! I Live To Rock!

 

THE NEED: Because of there Worth They Don't leave the Vault.

 

THE CURE: Dillion Guitars. This is were I buy My new 58 Lp Jr's You can hear them on this site.

 

How I run my pony Live; Direct into Three 100WATT Marshall Half Stacks No B.S

 

Thank you, Joseph Sanita

 

Check out these recordings submitted by Joseph Sanita. All the guitar work you hear in the tracks are done with the Dillion DXC-58 played by Joseph.

Awesome work, thanks Joseph!!

 

Track 1 - Lp Jr

 

Track 2 - LP Jr On The Run

 

Track 3 - To the Devil in the Deep Blue Sea

Bill - Dillion DRG-40 Rockinbetter Vintage Style Guitar

Hi Kevin,

 

I'm glad that I got the DRG-40 from you. It's a beautifully made guitar. I always wanted a R** which I used to have in 1966 (I was young and crazy and sold it for nothing). I now still own a 1957 Strat (same as Hank Marvin's) and a 97 LP. Wanted to buy a R** but I'd prefer to get a DRG-40 to modify it to a R** 355/325 just like John Lennon's. So I did. I love modifying guitars. You can see the DRG-40 that I bought is now looks like a R-325/355 JL in the photo. I've put a Bigsby on it just as JL's modification.

 

If any of your customers want any info of how to modify guitars, I'll be more than happy to give them all the info I have to help them out.

 

Here is the website of a few 'The Shadows' songs that I play and recorded at home.

The Shadows

 

Keep up the good products.

 

Cheers.

Bill

 

 

Jerry - Dillion LP Jr Style Guitar

Kevin..

 

I got home and opened my delivery from your store and to say I was impressed with the packaging is an understatement. It arrived sound and stable. It was even in tune.

 

I spent an hour or so playing it and Kevin this has been one of the most satisfying purchases I have ever made. The guitar is flawless and could not play any better.

 

Like I had stated earlier I have wanted one of these for some time (years) and this one is just perfect. I noticed the detail you paid to the fret board and frets. I am a little taken back by it. I have MANY guitars and some have cost me into well over $1000.00 dollars and this little jewel plays so well it will indeed be the first guitar I reach for when I play. I am going to write several reviews on the quality of the Canadian Dillions and will let others know of what a great business you have.

 

Once again Kevin Thank you, I could not be happier with the quality or the service.

 

Sincerely

Jerry

Steve - Dillion DRG-45 Rockinbetter Bass Guitar

Hey, Kevin...

 

The Rockinbetter bass arrived, safe and sound. Many thanks. Great packing job, and VERY fast shipping. It is a great bass, and I will be using it with my Beatles Tribut Band "Retromania." I originally bought it to apply the "psychedelic" paint job, but the Fireglo finish is really nice, so now I am debating, as I don't want to ruin the finish.

 

Thank you very much, and hope to deal with you again, very soon.

 

All the best, Steve

Ron Davis - Dillion 12 String Fireglo Semi Hollow Body Style

I just want to drop a little note of thanks to Kevin, & a short review of the Dillion 12 String Fireglo I just got.

 

*1st of all, Kevin is a top notch vendor... hands down. I'm confident that anyone can buy from him & be assured of having a wonderful experience from start to finish. Packing was 1st rate & shipping was quick & flawless.

 

*2nd, he knows his stuff, & his prices are great.

 

*3rd, now to the guitar... This thing is way cool. I've always wanted a R** 12, but being a pro drummer (not guitarist) it's kinda hard for me to justify the high $$$ price tag for one... So, after reading some reviews on the internet, as well as at the JSD site, I decided to call Kevin & see what was up with this guitar. We spoke for a few minutes, & I decided to go for it. BOY am I glad I did!!!

 

I just LOVE this thing. I put a set of Pyramid strings on it I bought from my friend Don Butler, who's a Vox & R** master tech & guitar guru.(www.tone-man.com). I tweeked on the neck, set action, etc., gave it a couple days to settle in & WOW...! This thing sings like McGuinn's R**. I got the action down lower than I can on any of my "expensive" big name guitars (& I have many. lol.) It plays like a dream, sounds like a dream & it is a very pretty piece of equipment. Great finish, nicely dressed frets, etc., etc...

 

So, in closing I give this ax a big thumbs up! I don't think anyone could be disappointed with this guitar at this price. THANX Kevin...!!!
;^)
Ron Davis
California/USA
Drummer for Colour My World
www.colourmyworld.com
www.myspace.com/cmwchicagotribute

Ramon - Dillion DRG-40 Rockinbetter Vintage Style Guitar

Hi Kevin,

 

I received the Rockinbetter yesterday. It took me ages to unpack it, which is of course quite a good thing because that means it was packed very well. I have to confess, the guitar was much better than I expected. I think it’s really wonderful! Beautiful flawless black finish, solid tuning pegs and great action too. It plays like a dream! And the other stuff that was included—the plectrums, tools, business cards and the extra truss rod cover—that was a nice touch.

 

I actually own a R** 350, the model the DRG-40 is obviously based upon. I needed a back-up guitar for gigs but, considering the huge price tag on a R**, I was looking for a cheaper alternative. The DRG-40 fits the bill nicely. I’m really looking forward to our next show, when I can try it out live.

 

Of course, I’m well aware of the antipathy on the internet. R** aficionados bend over backwards to express their disgust about so-called “fake” guitars. Vitriolic rhetoric aplenty about Dillion Canada, Dillion USA or whatever. One really shouldn't believe everything on the web. I don't take most of it seriously anyway. When it comes to narrow minded purists, you can’t win. Taken on its own, the Canadian Dillion Rockinbetter really is a fine guitar, especially when you consider the price tag. On your website it says: “quality guitars at great prices”. Well, I couldn’t agree with you more.

 

And last but certainly not least, it was a real pleasure doing business with you! I received a swift reply on all my emails, which is quite an accomplishment considering the time difference between Canada and Holland! After payment, the guitar was shipped to me right away and it arrived in pristine condition. On the whole, I'm very pleased with the way you handled my order.

 

You’ve got yourself another happy customer!

 

Greetings, Ramon

Marc from the band Across The Pond - Indie IRK5 Semi Hollow Body

Dear Kevin,

My Indie IRK-5 has completed my quest for the ultimate pair of retro guitars for my tribute act. The natural finish of this guitar makes it look like high end musical furniture, and has been turning the heads of friends, musicians, and fans whenever it comes out on stage with me. Even when I am off stage, I have the thing in my hands. The semi hollow design allows the sound to resonate through the instrument, and out of the instrument and projects all around whatever room I am sitting in when playing it acoustically and it plays beautifully as an acoustic instrument too for warming up if you don't want to plug in. It has a very warm tone through my Vox amplifier, and the action on the neck makes the playing, especially solos as smoothe as it comes. I was also very happy and naturally surprised when I opened your very, very, very, I'll say it agin, very, very, very awesomely packed box that my guitar arrived in, and saw that my guitar came with an awesome and heavy duty softcase Indie gigbag. That was a nice bonus

Someone has already offered to buy it from me, and I told them that this will be an instrument I will never part with. It is also a very solidly built instrument, and again, I must stress that you cannot find a guitar like this anywhere for the affordable cost of this instrument. I no longer have the longing for some of the other "Name" brands out there with the same look. That void that all musicians feel when they are on the hunt for the ultimate guitar that only that one special instrument can fill, I am happy to say has been filled 2 times in the past few months for me, thanks to JSD guitars coming through with offering some of the most coolest guitars I have come across in years, and the prices that JSD sets are more fair than anyone I have ever dealt with personally. Money gets harder to spend everyday in the times we are living in, but in the case of JSD's Guitarshack, I can confidently say, that my money was well spent. In return I recieved from JSD the most honest, best, and quickest communication I have ever gotten from an online guitar dealer. Kevin's attention to detail and again, the great care he took in packing up my new baby and shipping it off is unmatched. Kevin gets and A++++++++ from me anytime.

Thanks again JSD! You rock my world - Marc (Across The Pond)

 

Marc - Across The Pond - Dillion DRG-40 Rockinbetter Vintage Style Guitar

Hi Kevin,

THANK YOU for selling me this awesome guitar. I play in a Beatles tribute band, and needed a more affordable guitar to help recreate the 1960's era Beatles vibe, the DRG-40 Rockinbetter, hands down is a very high quality guitar, and as someone who owned R**'s in the past, this guitar would hold up to the standards of any R** player today. The price, the flash of the finishing glare of black beauty paint, with white pickguards, makes this guitar a treasure to me, I will never part with it! THANK YOU KEVIN!

One happy british invasion mod and new customer - Marc - (Across The Pond)

PS:
Enjoy the photo of the Dillion Rockinbetter standing to the right of the Hofner!

 

Chris - Dillion 12 String Fireglo Semi Hollow Body Style

Kevin,

The guitar made it on Friday. First, I want to say thank you very much for answering my questions and establishing a "dialog" before/after the sale. I've dealt with numerous distributors and manufacturers, big and small, virtual and local where response in email or in person appears to be a chore. Actually DOING something at the potential/actual customer's request necessitates snarkyness or misinformation...If you hadn't taken the time to help, then I probably wouldn't own this beautiful guitar.

The Rockinbetter is definitely STUNNING & GORGEOUS!!! Sharply cut like a 330/12 and with the cool 360 binding appointments. The dot inlays have always been more appealing to me than shark fin. Most importantly, this guitar is easier to play than any R** 12 I've EVER PLAYED!! The neck is much more comfortable than a R**. It's less congested when chording, and it has a welcoming feel overall.

My only issues were personal--setup (neck relief) and sound (pickup) preferences. I'm a technician, so I'm hard to please. I don't even like stock R** pickups. However, that's another bonus of the Dillion. At this price I won't feel like I need to go to confessional when I route the body to put in the DeArmond's or some TV Jones pickups.

Overall, if you want a solid, (VERY) convincing R style guitar that is easier to play than an original at a third the price. The Dillion is THE guitar...only I bought the last new one.

On another note...out of curiosity...are Indie Guitars made at the same factory as Dillion? I already spent my Christmas money, but the natural IRK is quite handsome....
JSD's note: I believe they are as they have the same great quality!

Thanks again,

~chris

Tom McSkimming - Dillion Firebird Style Guitar

Hi Kevin, the guitar arrived yesterday and is just as nice as advertised!! The fit and feel are just as good as my Epiphone Firebird VII, and Gibson Firebird (which I've included pictures of) thanks for all the service! your the best!!

 

Tom McSkimming

 

The following was posted at Harmony Central forums
about the Dillion SG Jr Style Guitars

 

This is an online order from JSD's Guitar Shack. smooth transaction. they packed this sucker to survive a nuclear holocaust (shoulda had photos of the packing).

 

Having owned gibson's and an orville in the past, this guitar fits in very well within the realm. the action is matched well with the sg standard. the neck contour might be a fuzz narrow on this one. all mahogany. the neck joint is a hunky tenon that extends about three inches into the body. the p-90. well, sounds like a p-90. good amount of crunch with pretty nice definition.

 

i had a set of fullsize grovers to swap out, set it up with my favorite strings, polished the frets, set the action the way i like it. in which i was able to set it pretty darn low without any fret-knocking. this is a well made guitar indeed. this is my third dillion guitar, and i think i have become a fan

 

fits in well with the others..;)

 

Jaye Isham - Guitarist for 8th Day Morning
Playing his new camo top Roxbury Singlecut RX-60

First off, I want to thank Kevin as you were a real pleasure to deal with. The guitar was exactly as you described it and it arrived safe and sound thanks to the great packing job.

Now on to the guitar, I'm really impressed with the build quality -- excellent fret work, top notch hardware, and the pickups totally rock. The neck pickup sounds great thru the clean channel - nice and warm but chimey too, and under gain, it gets a real cool "woman" tone. The bridge pickup really smokes too, especially under high gain. Great neck shape that's only slightly smaller than 59 LP style neck. I went over the guitar with a fine tooth comb and couldn't find one flaw; my only niggle is that the rosewood board is a little light in color but that's no big deal. It's also pretty heavy at right over 9 lbs. but I think that may be an advantage because this guitar screams, and there's a ton of ass on the bottom end tonally. It certainly rivals and, in many ways, beats the PRS SE line, Schecters, ESP LTDs, and other Korean guitars. It totally slays an Epi IMO. The final test was when I took the Roxbury over to our practice space to crank it through my live Mesa rig. Dude, that guitar f***ing rocks, especially for the price! I'm gonna gig with it, no doubt and use it for the really heavy downtuned stuff we do. It'll sound perfect and look cool as hell!

 

Here is a pic of me and the Camo Rox at its second gig on Feb 24th. It sounded incredible and it was nice to check it out it out in a big room. As I said, I'm using it for heavy downtuned tunes -- like Godsmack, Rob Zombie, etc. -- and it absolutely crunched. To be honest, it sounded as good as any of my other USA built guitars in a live setting.

 

Kevin, thanks again for such an easy transaction. And if any of you guys are looking for a quality, killer sounding import -- check out the Roxburys.

Guy P - Dillion SG Style Guitars

I present you the THUNDERSTRUCK SG. My new Dillion DXC-61. A head above the Epiphone SG or ESP/LTD VIPER of the same price range in all aspects. One incredible axe for $300 and unlike the Epiphone or ESP/LTD SG that are neck heavy as hell, the Dillion is one well balanced guitar. Super fast service too, paid Thursday morning, a few hours later the strings were changed to the gauge of my choice, the guitar was tuned up, packed and shipped. Tuesday morning i had it in my hands. That's what I call service.

 

 

As always the packing job was awesome. The package could have gone trough a hurricane and came back unharmed. You can tell a lot about how a seller care about his customers by the way he packs the guitars for shipping. No worry, it's insured so I won't bother packing it properly seems to be the norm these days.

 

I installed strap locks, made a couple of cosmetic mods, then tuned down to D and now i'm in DOWN heaven. Spent most of the evening playing Stone the Crow, Temptation's Wings, Lifer and other DOWN tunes like I was Pepper '' motherhugging '' Keenan.

Thanks again Kevin for another perfect transaction and awesome deal.

 

This was my third order but definitely won't be my last. You made a customer for life out of me.

 

Guy P

 

 

Guy P - Dillion LP Style Guitar DXC-650F

Hi! Just wanted to let you know that I received the guitar this morning and I have a hard time putting it down. Incredible axe for the price. It simply blows away all the epiphones I tried the last couple of weeks, the only epiphone I would compare to it is the Joe Perry boneyard sig. (but at $900, it's Almost 3 x the price). I would easily put it on par with the higher end Agiles. Gorgeous finish (the pics don't do it justice), good and versatile stock pickups, great fret work, awesome playability, it would rock at $600-700 so at $375, it's a hell of a deal plus you don't have to pay the customs fees that comes with ordering agiles.

 

Awesome packing job too, if everybody packed theirguitars as well as you, I would not have had 6, yes "6", it's not a typo, 6 guitars damaged by Canada post in the lasttwo years. From scratches and dents to broken off headstockand everything in between. Great guitar, great price, fast shipping, great packing job and excellent service. This was my second purchase (see Artec amp review down below) but that number will definitely multiply within the next few months.

 

Even my cat loves my new guitar! Here are some before and after pics.

Thanks for everything,
Guy P

Jens Dangel and his Dillion Korina Explorer

 

Hi Kevin,

 

Now that I find the time, I wanted to give you a short feedback of the Dillion Explorer.

First of all I want to thank you for the exemplary customer service, and the prompt shipment. The packaging job was first class. The Dillion Explorer is, as you described it, a very well made copy of a '58 Gibson Korina Explorer. Far better than the Epiphones you can buy in Germany. I don’t want to compare it to the original, but this Instrument doesn't have one imperfection. For it’s oversized body it is lightweight and a pleasure to play. I am not good at describing the sound of a Guitar, but the Dillion Explorer is a lively and resonant instrument with fast attack, rich harmonics and plenty of sustain.

Once again, thanks for the great guitar and the great experience.

 

Jens Dangel - Germany

Paul Jardell and his Dillion Rockinbetter Guitars

 

Here’s a pic of me and my 2 Dillion “Vintage Series” guitars which I purchased from JSD's Guitar Shack. Lots of fun! I really enjoy them. The guitars make me feel like I am playing along with the spirits of Beatles John Lennon and George Harrison. The guitars look terrific. They are well made and play almost just like the much higher priced guitars they resemble, at a fraction of the cost.

 

I play the 2 Dillions through a VOX 15 LMR Pathfinder amp and they sound great. Very 1960s / Beatles/ Byrds/ jangly just like I wanted.

 

I had my doubts about shipping guitars from Canada, but I got lots of help from Kevin at JSD's Guitar Shack. Everything went as planned. Thanks Kevin! Delivery was on time, guitars were well packaged. I would buy from them again.

 

My best regards,
Paul Jardell Houston, Texas USA