daion

I've been a big fan of Daion guitars since the late 70's, when I had the opportunity to play several models I came across at Chateau Musicale -- a long defunct music store in Montreal, Canada.

Made in Japan by Yamaki, and distributed in North America by MCI Inc (based in Waco, Texas) between 1978-84 -- Daion guitars were reasonably high quality instruments offered at reasonable prices. In 1979, after a very short deliberation, I bought a '78 Heritage which quickly became my favourite guitar for both practice and performing. I had to sell my model '78 a few years later, and have regretted that decision for nearly 20 years! I was very fortunate to acquire a model '80 in 2002, and this guitar is now played daily.

In 1999, when I first tried to dig up information on these fantastic guitars, there was precious little available. Most of the details on this site has been slowly harvested from guitar review sites, bulletin boards, eBay/classified ads, and various performers' sites. I have provided some source links here. The search for info continues with help from Daion guitar fans all over the world. I plan to get an interactive forum up and going sometime soon. This may or may not include some of the more interesting e-mails that I have received so far. It's an understatement to say that most folks who have come across Daion guitars really like them. Particular sincere thanks to all who have provided pictures.

I'm happy to finally have a reasonably accurate history of Daion guitars - one which tells the story of how the company came to be, and also explains why the company (regrettably) ceased to exist. This also explains Daion's relationship with Yamaki guitars.

Since most of us are interested in the guitars themselves, the columns to the left and right of this text provides links to specific Daion models. Each guitar will have its specifications listed below the name, together with links to photographs and reviews, if and when available. I get a fair bit of new material every week, mostly photographs. This stuff is more or less catalogued, but some information does get lost in the shuffling. If you come across content on this site which you provided but is not credited to you, please let me know -- I'd be pleased to correct any oversights.

This site is still a work in progress. If you have anything relevant to add, please don't hesitate to e-mail me.

However, please note that I am not interested in buying your guitar or appraising it, nor do I know anyone who is!! Although all donations of guitars will be gratefully accepted! I have a strong affinity towards both the Power Mark XX electric, and the '78 Heritage acoustic -- in case you are seeking a properly humidified and loving home for your seldom played Daions...

Maintaining this web site and answering your e-mails involve a good bit of my time, and these pages are hosted out of my own pocket. I do this because I like the guitars, and I believe that information should be shared.

Notice to eBay sellers and others:

Please ask my permission before linking to this site (I will probably say "no"; those who insist on ignoring this request will receive crabby e-mails). This site is not intended to support commercial purposes of any kind.

last update: May 6, 2006