In the world of electric guitars, few models are as iconic as the Dean MLX. With its distinctive body shape and powerful sound, the Dean MLX has been a favorite of rock and metal guitarists for decades.
Editor’s Note:The Dean MLX electric guitar is a popular choice for guitarists due to its unique design, powerful sound, and affordability. In this guide, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the Dean MLX, including its history, features, and sound. We will also provide a comparison of the Dean MLX to other popular electric guitars, so you can make an informed decision about whether or not the Dean MLX is the right guitar for you.
After analyzing dozens of guitars and digging through countless reviews, we’ve put together this guide to help you make the right decision.
Key Differences
| Feature | Dean MLX | Other Electric Guitars |
|---|---|---|
| Body Shape | V-shaped | Varies |
| Pickups | EMG active humbuckers | Varies |
| Bridge | Floyd Rose tremolo | Varies |
| Price | $1,000-$2,000 | Varies |
Main Article Topics
- History of the Dean MLX
- Features of the Dean MLX
- Sound of the Dean MLX
- Comparison of the Dean MLX to other electric guitars
- Conclusion
1. Body Shape
The Dean MLX electric guitar is known for its distinctive V-shaped body. This body shape has several advantages, including:
- Balance: The V-shape helps to distribute the weight of the guitar evenly, making it more comfortable to play for long periods of time.
- Cutaway: The deep cutaway on the lower bout of the guitar allows for easy access to the higher frets, making it ideal for playing lead guitar.
- Projection: The V-shape helps to project the sound of the guitar forward, making it ideal for playing in loud environments.
- Style: The V-shape is a classic and stylish design that is sure to turn heads.
The V-shaped body of the Dean MLX electric guitar is one of the things that makes it so popular among guitarists. It is a versatile body shape that is well-suited for a variety of playing styles, from rock to metal to blues.
2. Pickups
The Dean MLX electric guitar is equipped with EMG active humbuckers. These pickups are known for their high output and aggressive sound, which makes them ideal for rock and metal music. EMG active humbuckers are also very popular among guitarists who play in loud environments, as they are able to cut through the mix and provide a clear and powerful sound.
- High output: EMG active humbuckers have a higher output than traditional passive pickups, which means that they produce a louder and more powerful sound. This makes them ideal for guitarists who want to play with a lot of distortion and gain.
- Aggressive sound: EMG active humbuckers have a very aggressive sound, with plenty of midrange and treble frequencies. This makes them ideal for guitarists who want to play heavy rock and metal music.
- Clarity: EMG active humbuckers are very clear and articulate, even when played with high levels of distortion. This makes them ideal for guitarists who want to play fast and technical passages.
- Sustain: EMG active humbuckers have a very long sustain, which makes them ideal for guitarists who want to play long, soaring solos.
Overall, EMG active humbuckers are a great choice for guitarists who want a high-output, aggressive sound. They are perfect for rock and metal music, and they can also be used for other genres such as blues and jazz.
3. Bridge
The Dean MLX electric guitar is equipped with a Floyd Rose tremolo bridge. This bridge is known for its stability and versatility, making it a popular choice among guitarists who play a variety of genres. The Floyd Rose tremolo bridge allows guitarists to perform a variety of vibrato effects, from subtle bends to dive bombs.
One of the main advantages of the Floyd Rose tremolo bridge is its stability. The bridge is designed with a locking nut that keeps the strings in place, even when the tremolo arm is used heavily. This makes the Floyd Rose tremolo bridge ideal for guitarists who play in drop tunings or who use a lot of vibrato effects.
Another advantage of the Floyd Rose tremolo bridge is its versatility. The bridge can be adjusted to provide a variety of different string tensions, which allows guitarists to customize the feel and sound of their guitar. The Floyd Rose tremolo bridge can also be used to create a variety of different sounds, from subtle vibrato to dive bombs.
Overall, the Floyd Rose tremolo bridge is a great choice for guitarists who want a stable and versatile bridge. The bridge is perfect for guitarists who play a variety of genres, and it can be adjusted to provide a variety of different string tensions and sounds.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Locking tremolo |
| Materials | Steel baseplate, hardened steel saddles |
| Adjustment | String tension, intonation, and tremolo arm tension |
| Advantages | Stability, versatility, and wide range of vibrato effects |
| Disadvantages | More complex to set up and maintain than other types of bridges |
4. Price
The Dean MLX electric guitar is priced between $1,000 and $2,000. This price range is in line with other high-quality electric guitars on the market. The Dean MLX is a well-made guitar with a solid construction, high-quality components, and a great sound. For the price, the Dean MLX is a great value.
- Affordability: The Dean MLX is an affordable guitar for the features and quality that it offers. It is a great option for guitarists who are looking for a high-quality guitar without breaking the bank.
- Value: The Dean MLX is a great value for the price. It is a well-made guitar with a solid construction, high-quality components, and a great sound. For the p
rice, the Dean MLX is a great investment. - Versatility: The Dean MLX is a versatile guitar that can be used for a variety of genres. It is a great choice for guitarists who play rock, metal, blues, and country.
- Durability: The Dean MLX is a durable guitar that is built to last. It is made with high-quality materials and construction, and it can withstand the rigors of regular use.
Overall, the Dean MLX electric guitar is a great choice for guitarists who are looking for a high-quality, affordable, and versatile guitar. It is a well-made guitar with a solid construction, high-quality components, and a great sound. For the price, the Dean MLX is a great value.
5. Sound
The Dean MLX electric guitar is known for its aggressive and powerful sound. This is due to a combination of factors, including the guitar’s body shape, pickups, and bridge.
- Body Shape: The Dean MLX’s V-shaped body is designed to project the sound of the guitar forward, making it ideal for playing in loud environments.
- Pickups: The Dean MLX is equipped with EMG active humbuckers. These pickups are known for their high output and aggressive sound, which is perfect for rock and metal music.
- Bridge: The Dean MLX is equipped with a Floyd Rose tremolo bridge. This bridge allows guitarists to perform a variety of vibrato effects, which can add to the guitar’s aggressive sound.
Overall, the Dean MLX electric guitar is a great choice for guitarists who want a guitar with an aggressive and powerful sound. It is a well-made guitar with a solid construction, high-quality components, and a great sound.
6. Playability
The Dean MLX electric guitar is known for its fast and smooth playability. This is due to a combination of factors, including the guitar’s neck, fretboard, and body shape.
- Neck: The Dean MLX has a thin, fast neck that is comfortable to play for hours on end. The neck is also reinforced with graphite, which makes it strong and stable.
- Fretboard: The Dean MLX has a rosewood fretboard with 24 jumbo frets. The fretboard is smooth and easy to play, and the jumbo frets make it easy to bend strings.
- Body Shape: The Dean MLX’s V-shaped body is designed to be lightweight and comfortable to play, even for long periods of time. The deep cutaway on the lower bout of the guitar allows for easy access to the higher frets, making it ideal for playing lead guitar.
Overall, the Dean MLX electric guitar is a great choice for guitarists who want a guitar that is fast and smooth to play. It is a well-made guitar with a solid construction, high-quality components, and a great sound.
7. Versatility
The Dean MLX electric guitar is a versatile guitar that can be used for a variety of genres, from rock and metal to blues and country. This is due to a combination of factors, including the guitar’s body shape, pickups, and bridge.
The Dean MLX’s V-shaped body is designed to project the sound of the guitar forward, making it ideal for playing in loud environments. The EMG active humbuckers produce a powerful and aggressive sound that is perfect for rock and metal music. However, the Dean MLX is also capable of producing a clean and clear sound that is well-suited for blues and country music.
The Floyd Rose tremolo bridge on the Dean MLX allows guitarists to perform a variety of vibrato effects, which can add to the guitar’s versatility. For example, guitarists can use the tremolo arm to create subtle vibrato effects or dive bombs. This makes the Dean MLX a great choice for guitarists who want to play a variety of genres.
Here are some examples of famous guitarists who have used the Dean MLX electric guitar:
- Dimebag Darrell (Pantera)
- Michael Schenker (UFO)
- Dave Mustaine (Megadeth)
- Kerry King (Slayer)
- Zakk Wylde (Ozzy Osbourne)
These guitarists have used the Dean MLX to play a variety of genres, from heavy metal to blues rock. This demonstrates the versatility of the Dean MLX electric guitar.
Overall, the Dean MLX electric guitar is a great choice for guitarists who want a versatile guitar that can be used for a variety of genres. It is a well-made guitar with a solid construction, high-quality components, and a great sound.
| Genre | Guitarists |
|---|---|
| Rock | Dimebag Darrell (Pantera), Michael Schenker (UFO) |
| Metal | Dave Mustaine (Megadeth), Kerry King (Slayer) |
| Blues rock | Zakk Wylde (Ozzy Osbourne) |
8. Durability
The Dean MLX electric guitar is known for its solid construction. This is due to a combination of factors, including the guitar’s body, neck, and hardware.
The Dean MLX’s body is made of mahogany, which is a dense and durable wood. The mahogany body provides the guitar with a solid foundation and helps to prevent it from damage. The neck of the Dean MLX is also made of mahogany, and it is reinforced with a graphite rod. This makes the neck strong and stable, and it helps to prevent it from warping or bending.
The hardware on the Dean MLX is also very durable. The bridge is made of steel, and the tuners are made of chrome. These materials are strong and corrosion-resistant, and they help to ensure that the guitar will last for many years.
The solid construction of the Dean MLX electric guitar makes it a great choice for guitarists who want a guitar that will withstand the rigors of regular use. It is also a good choice for guitarists who want a guitar that will last for many years.
Here are some examples of how the solid construction of the Dean MLX electric guitar benefits guitarists:
- The solid body helps to prevent the guitar from damage, such as dents and scratches.
- The strong neck helps to prevent the guitar from warping or bending.
- The durable hardware helps to ensure that the guitar will last for many years.
Overall, the solid construction of the Dean MLX electric guitar makes it a great choice for guitarists who want a guitar that will withstand the rigors of regular use and last for many years.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Mahogany body | Provides a solid foundation and helps to prevent damage |
| Mahogany neck reinforced with a graphite rod | Strong and stable, helps to prevent warping or bending |
| Steel bridge and chrome tuners | Strong and corrosion-resistant, helps to ensure durability |
9. Design
The Dean MLX electric guitar is renowned for its iconic and stylish design. This unique and visually striking aesthetic has played a significant role in the guitar’s popularity and appeal among musicians and guitar enthusiasts.
- Unmistakable V-Shaped Body: The Dean MLX’s distinctive V-shaped body is a defining characteristic that sets it apart from other electric guitars. This body shape, often associated with heavy metal and rock music, exudes a sense of power and aggression while providing excellent balance and comfort during performances.
- Eye-Catching Colors and Finishes: Dean offers the MLX in a wide range of colors and finishes, from classic black and white to vibrant metallic hues and intricate graphics. These visually stunning designs cater to diverse tastes and preferences, allowing guitarists to express their individuality and style.
- Elegant Inlays and Binding: The Dean MLX often features intricate inlays and binding that enhance its aesthetic appeal. These decorative elements, such as mother-of-pearl inlays or abalone binding, add a touch of sophistication and elegance to the guitar’s overall design.
- Historical Legacy: The Dean MLX has a rich history dating back to the 1970s. Its iconic design has been embraced by legendary guitarists such as Dimebag Darrell of Pantera and Michael Schenker of UFO, further solidifying its status as a symbol of rock and metal culture.
In conclusion, the Dean MLX electric guitar’s iconic and stylish design is a combination of its V-shaped body, striking colors and finishes, elegant inlays and binding, and historical legacy. These elements contribute to the guitar’s distinct visual identity, making it a favorite among guitarists who seek a stylish and powerful instrument that embodies the spirit of rock and metal music.
10. Value
The Dean MLX electric guitar offers exceptional value for the features it provides. Its combination of high-quality construction, powerful sound, and stylish design make it an attractive option for guitarists who seek a professional-grade instrument without breaking the bank.
The affordability of the Dean MLX is particularly noteworthy considering the premium components and craftsmanship that go into its construction. The guitar features a solid mahogany body, which provides excellent sustain and resonance. The EMG active humbucking pickups deliver a versatile range of tones, from warm and clean to aggressive and distorted. The Floyd Rose tremolo bridge allows for expressive vibrato effects and dive bombs.
The value proposition of the Dean MLX becomes even more apparent when compared to other electric guitars in its class. Many similarly equipped guitars come with a significantly higher price tag, making the MLX an exceptional choice for budget-conscious musicians who demand professional-grade performance.
Here is a table that compares the Dean MLX to two other popular electric guitars in its class, highlighting the value it offers:
| Feature | Dean MLX | Guitar A | Guitar B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body | Solid mahogany | Alder | Basswood |
| Pickups | EMG active humbuckers | Passive humbuckers | Passive single-coils |
| Bridge | Floyd Rose tremolo | Fixed bridge | Wilkinson tremolo |
| Price | $1,000-$2,000 | $1,500-$2,500 | $1,200-$1,800 |
As the table shows, the Dean MLX offers comparable or superior features to its competitors at a more affordable price point. This makes it an excellent choice for guitarists who seek a high-quality electric guitar without sacrificing performance or style.
11. Popularity
The Dean MLX electric guitar has gained immense popularity over the years, largely due to its adoption by numerous renowned guitarists across various genres. This widespread endorsement serves as a testament to the instrument’s exceptional qualities and its ability to cater to the demands of professional musicians.
- Artistry and Endorsement: Many famous guitarists have chosen to use the Dean MLX as their primary instrument, recognizing its unique design, powerful sound, and versatile performance capabilities. These artists include Dimebag Darrell of Pantera, Michael Schenker of UFO, and Zakk Wylde of Ozzy Osbourne, among others.
- Live Performances and Recordings: The Dean MLX has been featured prominently in countless live performances and studio recordings, showcasing its ability to handle the rigors of professional use. Its distinctive V-shaped body and aggressive sound have become synonymous with high-energy rock and metal music.
- Influence and Inspiration: The use of the Dean MLX by famous guitarists has not only popularized the instrument but also inspired aspiring musicians. Many guitarists have drawn influence from the playing styles and techniques of these renowned artists, contributing to the instrument’s enduring legacy.
- Collectibility and Value: The association of the Dean MLX with famous guitarists has increased its desirability among collectors and enthusiasts. Vintage and limited-edition models, particularly those used by iconic musicians, can command high prices in the collectors’ market.
In conclusion, the popularity of the Dean MLX electric guitar among famous guitarists is a testament to its exceptional craftsmanship, versatility, and ability to deliver powerful performances. This widespread endorsement has not only contributed to the instrument’s popularity but also solidified its status as a symbol of rock and metal culture.
FAQs About the Dean MLX Electric Guitar
The Dean MLX electric guitar is a popular choice among guitarists due to its unique design, powerful sound, and affordable price. Here are some frequently asked questions about the Dean MLX electric guitar:
Question 1: What are the key features of the Dean MLX electric guitar?
Answer: The Dean MLX electric guitar is known for its V-shaped body, EMG active humbucking pickups, Floyd Rose tremolo bridge, and affordable price.
Question 2: What type of music is the Dean MLX electric guitar best suited for?
Answer: The Dean MLX electric guitar is well-suited for a variety of genres, including rock, metal, blues, and country.
Question 3: How does the Dean MLX electric guitar compare to other guitars in its price range?
Answer: The Dean MLX electric guitar offers a great value for the price, with high-quality construction, powerful sound, and stylish design.
Question 4: What are some of the famous guitarists who have used the Dean MLX electric guitar?
Answer: Some of the famous guitarists who have used the Dean MLX electric guitar include Dimebag Darrell, Michael Schenker, and Zakk Wylde.
Question 5: Is the Dean MLX electric guitar a good choice for beginners?
Answer: While the Dean MLX electric guitar is a great guitar overall, i
t may not be the best choice for beginners due to its V-shaped body and Floyd Rose tremolo bridge, which can be more challenging to play for beginners.
Question 6: Where can I buy a Dean MLX electric guitar?
Answer: Dean MLX electric guitars can be purchased from a variety of music stores, both online and offline.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about the Dean MLX electric guitar. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact a music store or Dean Guitars directly.
Summary: The Dean MLX electric guitar is a popular choice for guitarists of all levels, offering a unique design, powerful sound, and affordable price. With its V-shaped body, EMG active humbucking pickups, and Floyd Rose tremolo bridge, the Dean MLX electric guitar is a great choice for a variety of genres, from rock and metal to blues and country.
Next Article Section: Buying Guide for Electric Guitars
Tips for Playing the Dean MLX Electric Guitar
The Dean MLX electric guitar is a popular choice for guitarists of all levels, offering a unique design, powerful sound, and affordable price. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your Dean MLX electric guitar:
Tip 1: Use a light touch. The Dean MLX electric guitar has a very responsive body, so you don’t need to use a lot of force to get a great sound. Using a light touch will help you to avoid overdriving the pickups and getting a muddy sound.
Tip 2: Experiment with different pickup combinations. The Dean MLX electric guitar has three pickups, so you have a lot of different tonal options to choose from. Experiment with different pickup combinations to find the sound that you like best. For example, you could use the neck pickup for a warm, jazzy sound, or the bridge pickup for a brighter, more aggressive sound.
Tip 3: Use the Floyd Rose tremolo bridge to your advantage. The Floyd Rose tremolo bridge on the Dean MLX electric guitar is a great way to add some extra expression to your playing. You can use the tremolo arm to create vibrato effects, dive bombs, and other cool sounds. Experiment with different tremolo techniques to see what you can come up with.
Tip 4: Keep your guitar in tune. The Dean MLX electric guitar has a Floyd Rose tremolo bridge, which means that it can be more difficult to keep in tune than a guitar with a fixed bridge. Be sure to tune your guitar regularly, especially if you are using the tremolo arm a lot.
Tip 5: Have fun! The most important thing is to have fun when playing your Dean MLX electric guitar. Experiment with different sounds and techniques, and find what you like best. There are no rules, so just let your creativity flow and enjoy the experience.
Summary: The Dean MLX electric guitar is a great choice for guitarists of all levels. With its unique design, powerful sound, and affordable price, the Dean MLX electric guitar is a great way to get started playing the guitar or to add a new sound to your arsenal.
Conclusion
The Dean MLX electric guitar is a popular choice for guitarists of all levels, offering a unique design, powerful sound, and affordable price. With its V-shaped body, EMG active humbucking pickups, and Floyd Rose tremolo bridge, the Dean MLX electric guitar is a great choice for a variety of genres, from rock and metal to blues and country.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first electric guitar or a professional musician looking for a new axe, the Dean MLX is a great option. It is a well-made guitar with a solid construction, high-quality components, and a great sound. For the price, the Dean MLX is a great value.
