After extensively playing with the Ibby, I must admit it is a very well made guitar, light, superb playable. However, if I compare it with my other 7 stringer the Dean MAB 7X, the Dean is slightly better (even though it is made in China). I will compare the 2 in the following parameters:-1. Neck = Both are thin and great for fast players, difference in shape, Dean - C shape (like an arc of a circle with sharp ends), Ibanez - D shape (flattened arc ends).2. Fret work = Both good, the Ibanez had an overall "smoother" feel to it.3. Body = Ibanez is 300 gms lighter, the Dean feels sturdy. Looks, texture, aesthetics of the Ibanez is far superior than the Dean. Ibanez>Mahogany body+Maple Neck+Meranti Fretboard (looks Chic!), Dean>Basswood body+Maple Neck+ Ebony fret board.4. Playabilty = The Ibby has a slight edge over the dean because of its better contoured heel and access to the upper frets, a better horn cut.5. TREMELO System = This is always a deciding factor for me. The Dean has Floyd rose and the Ibanez the Edge zero. I played both extensively the Edge had a lesser dynamics and bit more stiff (even after the extra spring tension clamp removed). The Edge had a few mili seconds delayed response, the Dean with the floyd on the other hand fluttered, dive bombed, squealed better, it had more range than the Edge Zero Ibby. If you like doing Steve Vai-ish stuffs, get the dean with Floyd, eyes closed. Both stays in tune flawlessly.6. Pickups sound = The Dean has DMT pups, the Ibanez has Quantum pups. Both stock pups sounds great for the price. However, I prefer the Dean because of its sustain+flat frequency, making it highly tweak able in the EQ section of your guitar processor. The Ibby pup selector has 5 selections, the Dean has 3.Overall the Ibanez RG7420Z is great value for money electric ...