Dillion DFV003 Flying V Touring Edition

Finish: Your choice of any color you want, as long as it's glossy black.
Body Style: '58 Flying V; Note: it's a little bigger than some Epi V's, so finding a case is a chore. I wound up with the Stagg vintage brown w/pink fuzzy lining, looks great with this guitar.
Bridge Style: tune-o-matic with V shaped plate and stringthrough ferrels.
Tuners: Gold no-name vintage tulip-shaped
Neck/Scale: Rosewood w/ 22 medium-jumbo frets; wide and thick neck, not as clubby as an LP.
Accessories: Dillion goody bag of truss rod wrench, mini-tool kit, picks, polishing cloth.
Year made: 2000-ish (early production)
Construction: One-piece solid wood (alder)
Controls: volume-volume-master tone, 3-way throw switch
Pickups: 2 passive Humbucker-style Dillions with gold covers (possibly upgraded from stock OEMs)

Has a great Flying V Mojo, can't describe it exactly. Sounds different than other dual humbucking style guitars. Not as dark and fuzzy as a Les Paul, not as raggedy as an SG. Has a real edge to it, with some ballsy mids to back it up.

It is an iconic rock guitar, equally at home with Chicago-style electric blues. For this purpose, the DFV003 is well suited. Pickups are pretty decent for the price point.

Action fit and finish were excellent out-of-the-box. Legendary hand polished fret work did not dissapoint. Has a beautiful black gloss piano finish, deep and wet looking. Looks like a VERY expensive guitar. I call it my "Tuxedo V".

I believe it is a one-piece body. Website claims it is solid alder tonewood. Stylistically it looks to be fabbed exactly the same as the Korina V model by Dillion. Multi-ply (7 layers) binding on the body and headstock are quite professional-looking. In contrast, the neck binding and nut look cheap and plasticky by comparison.

Oddly enough, the headstock on mine does not have the "Touring Edition" decal, sort of special that way I guess. This was NOS from around 2000, before the lawsuits, so maybe they thought it looked more like the Gibson 2002 Custom V without the decal?

The very first thing I did was to rip out the oxidized wimpy strings, put some decent .10s on it, intonate and readjust the action. The Dillion easily adapted to the new settings. These are not cheaply-made guitars that you have to walk on eggshells around. Typical clone tune-o-matic bridge, '58 V styled gold string-through body ferrels and nice Kluson tuners, everything felt solid and well-assembled.

Electronics are noisy, faulty and loose. I'm knocking off points for the out-of-the-box condition. However a small investment of time and materials to replace the stock electronics should quickly restore the sound to a nonaggravating and excellent tone.

Have not played it extensively in a live situation just during band practice. The gold plating on any hardware is going to wear off pretty fast with my corrosive skin oils and sweat. The Dillion plating seems like it is less durable than that on my Gibson SG Supreme.

I will intall an extra strap button on the upper wing, underneath the lower edge for balance considerations and longevity. Putting the button on the end of the wing seems like a good idea, but it puts a lot more stress on the screw and I've seen them pop out on other Vs.

John is very responsive to phone calls, doesn't like email so much though. If you've been sued as many times as he has, I can appreciate not wanting a paper trail. I don't know if he was just being evasive or he really didn't know some of the details about the guitar's history (like the missing touring edition decal).

I had a problem with another guitar of his and he was great. Took care of it quickly and professionally and threw in one of his "crown royal" bags for guitars.

This is one great guitar for the price. Its very difficult to find a new one because they haven't been made for awhile due to legal pressures. Unlike some of the other Dillions, I don't consider this merely a "pickup platform". The humbuckers that came on the guitar will satisfy my needs for a while.

The only aggravating thing about it is the cheap electronics, but all of the big names have the same problem to one degree or another. I am still amazed that the customer good-will bought for an additional $0.28 upgrade of the electronics hasn't made it past the bean counters.

I would definitely replace this guitar with the same model if I had to. I have always loved the elegant look of a black w/gold Les Paul Custom and the mojo of a Flying V. Having them both together in one guitar is fantastic. Unless you are a pro with a big recording contract like Lenny Kravitz and can afford the original Gibson model at $3500, this is the only way you'll ever get a V that looks this good.

I definitely consider this one of the Cadillac models for Dillion, like the DSR-300GQ (SRV clone Strat). I can't confirm, but I suspect that the humbuckers in this guitar are upgraded from the run-of-the-mill Dillion models.

I'm not sure of the year but I do know it's Korean made. Picture a Les Paul Custom/Black Beauty (minus the middle pickup) but with the body of a Korina V--Mirror black finish with white binding on the body, neck and head, nice trapezoid inlays, and gold hardware. Simply put, this thing is pimpin'.

Oddly enough, it didn't come with strap pins, but considering the different ways I've seen them placed on other V's, it probably wasn't a bad thing. This way, I can the straplocks that I want (Dunlops) and set them exactly where I want them

I also own a Gibson V Goth, and while it's a killer axe, this one is more stunning to look at. The neck on this isn't quite as big as the Gibson, but is wide anogh for my large hands to play a traditional open "A" chord if I ever needed to. The higher frets are a bit easier to get to than the Goth as well, due to the Korina style neck joint.

Acoustially, this V sounds better than my Gibson, despite the fact that my Goth has an ebony fingerboard and this one is rosewood.

I'm not sure if the pickups are modeled after PAF's or 57's but they sound pretty sweet. I might change them though--not becasue they don't sound good--they do, but becasue I know that the gold finish will wear, especially the one at the bridge. I've heard great things about the Lace Sensor Drop/Gain pickups and am curious about how they'd sound. I know they would look great on this axe for sure.

The pickups in this aren't as hot as the ceramic ones in my Goth V(duh) but they sound fuller and cleaner, even at higher gain levels. They also feed back the way I like them to more easily than the ones in my Goth do.

There was ont thing that was peculiar. When I first got this, I would have to shut off both volume knobs if the toggle switch was in the middle position in order to cut off the signal. I could also tell that if I had the switch set on one pickup, the other would bleed over just a bit. It was a simple thing to change, and I can't deduct any points for this because I know that there a number of players out there that prefer that setup--I'm just not one of them.

Everyone who has heard me play through both axes are split on which they like the sound of better--some like the Goth better, others prefer the Dillion. I'll call it even.

Actually a 9.5--there was a small flaw in the finish but it was at the base of the neck, so no one will see it when I'm playing. The action was nice and low and maybe it's because of the Korina style neck, but I can actually use a 10-52 gauge set and not have to handpick a set the way I do for my Goth V.

I like the saddles on this better than my Goth v and it also stays in tune better. I'm sure the gold hardware will fade over time, especially on the bridge pickup.
I'm afraid to abuse it too much because it looks so damn nice, but it feels very sturdy and durable. The case it came in however, kinda sucks and I'm going to get either an Epi hardshell or a deluxe V gig bag that's well padded.

I have emailed Dillion on a few occasions and they are always quick to answer. If I remember correctly, John Dillion answered all of my questions personally.

I'd give it an eleven if I could. This cost less than my Gibson and overall, I like it better and that's saying something because I like my Gibson a lot. On principle, I refuse to spend over $800 on a guitar no matter how good it is and thanks to Dillion, I don't have to. When the only negative on a guitar is the case that it came in, you know these guys are onto something.

If anything were to happen to it, I'd definitely get another--in fact, I am--the (natural) Korina V model I just ordered should be here this week and I'll post a review on that one when I get it as well. It's a sweet deal when you can get two sweet, quality axes for a lot less then what you'd pay for a new Gibson Les Paul Custom. Way to go Dillion!

Black multi-bound alder body with gold hardware, a take on the Gibson custom V with Les Paul Custom appointments. Trapezoid inlays on bound rosewood board on (probably) maple neck, bound headstock, 2 PAF-ish humbuckers, 2 volume, 1 tone, 3-way toggle, string-through-body.

Most likely made in '03, in Korea. A discontinued model, sued out of production.

Was looking for several months for one, see them going--when they go at all--in the $600 + range. Happily found one from Ebay seller Quick connect for $499, shipping and nice Epi hard case included! (the Dillion cases are kind of wimpy)

It's a stunning guitar, like a V wearing a designer tuxedo, with the features it should have and then some, so where else can I go but 10.

I play rock and blues, currently through Tech 21 equipment. Perfect. V's have a unique sound, smoky/woody, and this one sounds exactly like expensive Gibson V's. It sustains as nicely as my Les Paul, blooms into fuzzville when you crank it all the way, but the notes have a nice articulation when you back off. Even at high gain you can hear some attack. The treble pickup is warm and sits great in a mix, and the neck unit is very round and full, and backing off the treble control gives beautiful Woman Tone, amazing early Clapton sound.

This is hands-down the most stunning guitar I've ever owned, and I've owned a bunch since I started playing in '74. Flawless mirror-like black finish, perfect elegant binding, very deep swirly-pearly fingerboard inlays. Very lightweight like an authentic V, a joy to play with its unencumbered neck. The neck itself seems somewhere between vintage baseball bat and vintage slim, a nice compromise. Fretwork is exceptional (I have several other Dillions and they all feature super fret finishing). The craftsmen were paying attention when this guitar went down the line.

Will it withstand live playing? Sure, just don't drop it or slam it into things. Hardware is decent quality, though the selector seems a little wimpy. But overall it seems as dependable as anyone would want it to be. The finish will last because you'll want to baby this beauty.

2-year warranty included. QuickConnect's service was as exceptional as the guitar itself. Low price, good communication, incredibly fast free delivery and a total surprise of that upgraded free hardshell case to boot.

Been playing 31 years and own/have owned Gibsons, Fenders etc. This is equal to my best. If it were lost or stolen it would be a tragedy because they're discontinued and the chances of finding another one for a comparable price would be next to nil. The sound, the look, and the V-vibe mystique--this is SUCH a keeper.

2004 Made in Korea

Knockoff of 2002 Limited Edition Gibson Flying V Custom. They only made 40 of the Gibsons.

Black Flying V with Les Paul Custom features. Gold hardware...binding...ect.

I was amazed how nice the guitar looked when i took it out of the case. Looks like a very expensive guitar for sure. Feels great, sounds great too.

I got an epiphone hardshell case with mine. I was told the case that comes with it was very bad. I got guitar and better case...shipped...for $500 bones.

I play Rock, Metal, Blues, ect. This guitar can do all, even though you really wanna play metal on it! Stock pickups sound pretty good.

Needed setup. After I tweaked a little it plays really good. Fast and low. Easy to go up and down the neck. Doesn't feel cheap at all. I was surprised how well it played.

Pickup selector switch seems cheap. The plastic nut seems cheap. Otherwise the ax is top notch in every way. I'd definitly gig with it. I just have a feeling that pickup selector switch ain't gonna last long. We'll see.

Don't know yet.

Been playing about 20 years now. I'm a Gibson snob. Recently started having GAS for a V. Saw the Gibson Flying V Custom...then saw the $4-$5K price tag one would cost. Found this Dillion copy and bit the bullet. Couldn't have been happier. It's a great guitar. I actually thought about putting "Gibson" on the headstock to make it a bootleg, but changed my mind after I actually got it and saw it and played it. I'm very proud of the guitar. If all Dillions are this good, I'll be buying more.

If the guitar was stolen I'd buy another in a hearbeat. Heck, I may buy another anyway!

Korean Made - probably 2003ish. It's a reproduction of a 59 Gibson V (which when re-released had a pricetage of $3400) that looks identical. All gold hardware, 2 57 Humbucker repros, 3-way selector, 2 Volume 1 tone knob. Neck looks and feels like a les paul with trapezoid inlays. It was supposedly used, but all of the hardware/pickguard was wrapped in plastic...appears to be brand new.

Supposedly a mahogany body, but feels a little too light to be solid mahogany. Hey, it's a Korean-made replica os a classic guitar, so I wasn't expecting a whole lot - but I was pleasantly surprised.

I recommend adding this to your collection if you can get your hands on one for the cool-factor alone.

This guitar has one helluva fat sound - just like a Les Paul, so you won't be disappointed in the pickups. Despite it's light weight, it has an awesome sustain. Excellent for any style of rock/blues.

I bought it off EBay, so it was already set up and plays killer. I have a 79 Les Paul and dare I say this guitar plays just as good or better. This guitar to me (and the 59 Gibson), is the best-looking Flying V ever made and everyone who has seen it has commented on that. The entire body, neck, and headstock are bound in white, with a mirror black finish. The nut looks a little cheap, and the gold hardware looks a little thin on the tuners and pickups, so I expect it will wear down to chrome after some years of use...but hell, it was a $340 guitar, not a $3,400 guitar. I am still giving it a 10.

Never played live but feels rock-solid.

Never had to deal with Dillion...

I've been playing for 16 years, and own a 70 Les Paul, a Highway 1 Tele, and a Gibson ES-135. This cool-ass V made a welcome addition. I looked at Vs for over a year before I came across this. I was going to get a Dean 79 series, but the appearance of this Dillion sold me. Dillion (from what I hear) has a solid reputation, and I couldn't make myself buy a Gibson 67 V because they just don't look as good and you pay for that "Made in the USA" stamp. Watching the price of Gibsons go through the roof over the last 10-15 years has soured me (although I like both of my Gibsons). Just take it for what it is - a FOREIGN REPRODUCTION - and you will not be disappointed.

Not sure what year it was made, either 2003 or 2004. Made in Korea, it's a black flying V with all gold hardware. Looks stunning. Black almost mirror like finish. 22 jumbo frets. solid body (either mahogany or alder, dealer listing on ebay said one thing, Dillion site says another) and completely flat on both sides, mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard and trapezoid shaped inlays. I have a number of other Dillions and the inlays on this look more vibrant, with more color and depth to them in comparison.....

The neck feels more or less like a les paul to me. The fret work is outstanding, finely polished and dressed. The neck feels like a million bucks, you notice it as soon as it hits your hands. The neck is bound including the headstock. Classis Gibson V type headstock which I've always loved.

It feels slightly off balanced to me if you take your hands off of the guitar, it starts slowly wanting to point to the floor. Maybe all V's are this way, I don't know, this is the first V i've ever played., it might also be the cheap ass strap im using on it right now. For now anyway I play it with my leg shifted a bit and that balances it out if i take my hand off the fretboard.

The gold plating on the pickups looks like it could be a bit thin to me, but I really have no way of telling for sure, we'll see over time. It's a string thu-body model,one tone control and two volume knobs and a gold plated toggle switch with a black cap.

can sound as quiet as a baby, or roar like a beast. I think it's a really, really versatile guitar.

I play rock and blues now, but cut my teath on heavy metal. The pickups are really hot, when im soloing i can get a meaty crunchy type sound with metallic overtones to it, simliar to Ace Frehelly's 70's sound in my mind, or Jimmy Page. I can also fiddle with the tone control and the toggle switch and sound like Carlos Santana, or Albert King.

I use a yamaha pedal thru a Crate amp currently

I'm still using the strings that came with it, (I know, I know) and I'm guessing that when I change them the guitar will sound even brighter than what it does now. Might be my best sounding guitar so far (even with the crap strings) but I'll need some more time to determine that. I've owned it for about 2 1/2 weeks, and have played it daily.

The guitar is very resonate and has great sustain. Can also make it squeal like a pig with pinched harmonics, or make it sound like Zakk Wylde's tradmarked squeals...if you know what i mean.

There were some mistakes with my guitar, starting with the finish. There's a drip run on the face of the guitar. It's really hard to see, but I know that it's there and it bugs me a bit. If I had paid list price for this guitar (and it'd be worth it plus more)I'd be really ticked, but I got it for a steal.

One of the volume knobs is kind of @%*#%& up a bit as well. If you turn it to its extremes,it wobbles or moves. When i opened it up to look i could not figure out how to tighten the damn thing.

When the pickguard was installed on the guitar, someone neglected to make sure all the wiring was tucked in so a wire was sticking out from under the pickguard. After I fixed that, the pickguard was warped, but has since laid back down after a week.

The binding on the neck - horizontal to the rythm pickup - was cracked and chipped in the right hand corner. Hard to see, one of those things nobody will see until you actually point it out to them.

The action was very high when I got it. I had to lower the bridge as low as it could go to get a comfortably low action.

Even with these flaws, it's a beautiful guitar. I sometimes bring it into different rooms with me so i can just look at it. It looks like it could cost a couple of grand.

this is a professional sounding, looking, and feeling instrument. I don't play live, but I wouldn't have a second thought about taking this up on a stage. Hell, this guitar is made for the stage. Everything is rock solid except for the wobbly volume control . The guitars tuning is rock solid. Gold plated strap buttons seem solid as well.

warranty is 2 years I think. Have not dealt with them yet.

I absolutely love this guitar. It plays as good as it looks. I've been playing almost 20 years. I bought it sight unseen and pretty much knew what to expect based upon my other Dillion's that I have now acquired, 6 in all. I love great deals, and a great value. It's hard to believe how professional these guitars feel, but cost so little. Im hooked. I took a chance after reading some reviews here a couple of years ago, and I'm glad I did.

Korean made in 2003. Modeled after the Gibson '58 Korina Flying V but with Les Paul Custom style features, sort of like a Gibson Custom Shop Flying V: black finish with Multiply binding on the body and headstock, and fully bound neck with rosewood fretboard and trapezoid inlays. Gold hardware.

Suits my style of playing just fine: Hard Hock/Metal/Blues. Ran it through my Behringer V-Amp2 just for testing purposes, Has a nice sound kind of on the bright side, which is ok with me. However the volume pots are a bit scratchy, strange for a brand new guitar.

Setup fairly well, bridge needed to be lowered a bit, but all new guitars need to be setup anyway.

I'm sure this guitar can withstand gigs without a problem. Just as well as any other V. Hardware seems to be well made. I would never gig with any guitar without a backup though.

Haven't had to deal with them.

I've been playing for 25 years and have owned lots of guitars amps, effects, rack gear and recording gear. From inexpensive copies to ultra high end guitars and accessories.. The DFV-003 came with the (optional) hardshell case, although it's not the geatest quality case. I think it is a CNB case. Very thin with not all that much padding inside..but it's still more protective than a flimsy gig bag. If this guitar were lost or stolen, I would go out and buy another right away...but I would get a genuine Gibson or epiphone hardshell case. All in all, Decent quality and Great Value for the money compared to what Gibson Flying V's sell for.