I'm Gonna Add MY 2 Cents Here.....LoL ...this thread is cracking me up!
I just picked up a Dean VMNTX used for $179 & I must say that although it is made in China it's a real player!...otherwise I wouldn't have given it a second thought.
I haven't plugged it into my rig yet but it sounded good at the store.
I can't seem to find ANY information on the serial# since apparently only USA-made Deans can be dated by serial#. Anyway I think it's an '08.
Of course it's a toy compared to my 7vwh, older RG's or SRV Strat but I've always wanted a "V" shaped guitar & I figured for $179.??? I could use it for different tunings & generally beat the hell out of it.
I would definitely count this guitar amongst the rankings of the Epi's, LTD's etc. within the same price range.
Check one out; you might just be surprised!
Peace!