Based on the only publication we have been able to find (see picture below), these instruments are called “Performer-D PC-999” and “Performer-D PF-999.” Presumably the PC and PF denoting Performer Classical and Performer Folk respectfully. Priced at 39,600 YEN in 1984, they are much less expensive than other Daion models in period. For example, in the same publication a Legacy-999 is listed at 60,000 YEN and a Savage is listed at 70,000 YEN.

The text for the Performer-D PC-999 below translates as: "Solid body classical guitar. High sensitivity built-in high power ‘Performer’ transducer. You can create from delicate play to hard play. It has a body shape that fits well and has high playability. Despite its simple design, the total balance is at a high level.”

The text for the Performer-D PF-999 below translates as: “Solid body folk guitar with built-in high sensitivity, high output ‘Performer’ transducers. High position playability is high due to the adoption of a single cutaway body shape. An all-around type electric-acoustic guitar that can cover everything from delicate play to hard play. It can be said that the total balance is high.”

Though the serial numbers on examples we’ve seen date production to 1983, these models do not appear in any Daion catalogs or advertising that we know of until 1984 (see picture below). The classical has nylon strings with a flat fretboard, tuning pegs and bridge in the style of a classical guitar, yet it is a hardbody electric with a transducer style pickup under the saddle. There is a volume and tone control knob on the top shoulder similar in style to late model Caribous and Gazelles. Truss rod adjustment is through the faux sound hole.

The closest guitar to this model that we have found is the Washburn Mirage and Spirit series. This may not be too surprising as early Washburns Wing Series (Falcons, Eagles and Hawks) were made by Yamaki, and Yamaki manufactured early Daions. It is generally believed that late model Daions (1984) were made by Cushin. Being these solid-body acoustics were made in 1983, it is hard to say for sure who made these instruments for Daion.

Based on the factory labels on the guitar cases in the photo galleries below, these models may also have been called DPF-999 for the solid-body folk guitar and DPC-999 for the electric classical guitar. Perhaps the “D” in DPF-99 and DPC-999 just stands for Daion. With “999” in the model name, you can’t help but think of the L-999 model in the Legacy Series of acoustic guitars. The bridge of the folk guitar, with its flat pyramids on either side of the saddle and bridge pins, is very reminiscent of the Legacy Series.