The Dixon Guitar brand name comes from the Gibson Guitar Co., which used it to market electric and acoustic guitars made by Epiphone. The Dixon guitars were a product of the Japanese branch of the company, which was first developed in 1957 through an alliance between Gibson and the Matsumoku factory. The first branded product was the Model T-200 acoustic guitar, released in 1960. In the 1970s, production was moved to the Samick Musical Instruments Co., Ltd., in South Korea.
Epiphone continued to produce Dixon-branded electric guitars and basses with the Japanese company Aria Pro II beginning in the late 1980s. They were distributed mainly in Europe, Canada and the United States. During the 1990s and continuing today, the Dixon name has also been used for some guitars made by Samick.
Epiphone/Aria Pro II collaborations
In 2002, Epiphone reintroduced the Dixon brand with a series of electric guitars co-developed by Epiphone and Aria. The guitars are all based on classic Fender Telecaster and Stratocaster models, but with some added features. For example, the Dixon ZT-2 features dual Duncan Designed pickups, a six-position rotary pickup switch and Aria Pro II locking tuners. The Dixon EC-2 features Duncan Designed humbucker pickups and an Aria Pro II Tune-o-matic bridge with stopbar tailpiece.
The Dixon guitars have been well-received by guitarists for their quality, playability and affordability. They are a great option for players who are looking for a classic Fender-style guitar without the high price tag.
Samick-produced Dixon guitars
In addition to the Epiphone/Aria Pro II collaborations, Samick has also produced a number of Dixon-branded guitars. These guitars are typically more affordable than the Epiphone/Aria models, but they still offer good quality and playability. Some popular Samick-produced Dixon guitars include the Dixon SG-2, Dixon LP-2 and Dixon JM-1.
Other Dixon-branded guitars
In addition to the Epiphone/Aria Pro II and Samick-produced guitars, there have also been a number of other Dixon-branded guitars produced over the years. These guitars have been produced by a variety of companies, including Cort Guitars, Ibanez and Washburn Guitars.
Current Status
The Dixon guitar brand is still in use today, and Epiphone continues to produce a variety of Dixon-branded electric and acoustic guitars. The guitars are available at a variety of retailers, including Guitar Center, Sam Ash Music and Musician's Friend.