Packed with useful information about musical instruments!

TC Music Magazine

It’s embarrassing when people realize you don’t know something…

Have you ever felt embarrassed because of a slight lack of knowledge when discussing musical instruments or music?

These days, on social media and elsewhere, “know-it-all battles”—where people show off their knowledge amid a sea of information—are a daily occurrence. It’s not uncommon to be immediately called out for a minor mistake or criticized for not knowing something. What’s more, the internet is overflowing with so-called “unsourced” and unreliable information.

I totally get how you feel.

You can look up information instantly, but you’re unsure if what you’ve found is even correct—and in the end, you become too afraid to even speak up…
It’s frustrating, isn’t it, to feel like you’re in the wrong just because you lack confidence in your knowledge, when all you really want to do is talk about the instrument you love?

For you, the staff at TC Musical Instruments Group—who love instruments just as much as you do—have put together the [TC Musical Instruments Magazine], based on real-world experience and reliable knowledge! It’s packed with authentic, useful information for all music fans, whether you’re a pro or an amateur!

This “TC Musical Instruments Magazine” covers a wide range of topics, from how-to articles recommended for beginners to the history of legendary instruments, featured guitars, and the world of wood. It’s produced based on our staff’s firsthand experience with the instruments themselves and reliable information—so you can trust it completely.
In particular, our feature articles on historic guitars and one-of-a-kind instruments offer in-depth insights that only our store—which has actually owned these instruments—can provide.

Your musical life is sure to be enriched from the very day you start reading!
Don’t miss this opportunity to have fun while learning!
You’re sure to find an article that’s just right for you!

Here are the latest posts. Use the tabs above to switch between categories.

List of Latest Articles

~Instrument Storage Tips from an Acoustic Guitar Specialist~

 

Stories of the Great Figures Who Shaped the Brand
▶︎ 1. Ted McCarty
▶︎ 2. George Fullerton

Why didn’t Gibson basses become the standard for electric basses? Why do they still captivate us to this day? We explore the lineage of the EB series and its appeal.
▶︎ The History of Gibson Basses: The EB Series
A specialty store provides a thorough, photo-illustrated guide to packing acoustic guitars!

▶︎The Complete Guide to Acoustic Guitar Packing Techniques Used by Pros

An easy-to-understand explanation from TC Gakki’s repair perspective on the effects on the neck, storage methods, and precautions for long-term storage.
▶︎Should You “Really” Loosen the Strings on an Acoustic Guitar?

Used Saxophone Restoration Diary: A step-by-step guide with photos on disassembling a Selmer Paris SERIE 2.
▶︎The Journey of a Used Saxophone to the Store Shelf

"You won’t find another brand in the whole world that can make pedals like these!"
▶︎The Wonderful World of DR.NO Effects

“There are so many types, I don’t know which one suits my guitar…”
▶︎An Acoustic Guitar Specialty Store’s Serious Approach to Choosing Pickups!

Introducing this completely one-of-a-kind masterpiece, of which only seven were ever made worldwide
▶︎Ren Ferguson Montana Rivers Masterpieces #3

Introducing a custom model by Ren Ferguson Guitars and Advance Guitars
▶︎“The pinnacle of artistry reached by the world’s foremost luthier, ‘Ren Ferguson’”

Maintaining Your Wind Instrument Is Part of Improving Your Skills
▶︎-How to Enjoy Your Instrument for Years to Come: The Trumpet Edition-

Entries are now closed. Thank you very much for your many submissions.
▶︎The 6th Custom Guitar Contest

Sano, our effects specialist, explains the instrument’s profound appeal and the evolution of its niche specifications

 

“Hard cases are heavy and a pain”
Why not put an end to that suffering?
▶︎A Gig Case Designed by an Acoustic Guitar Specialist

List of Electric Guitar Articles

Stories of the Great Figures Who Built the Brand
▶︎ 1. Ted McCarty
▶︎ 2. George Fullerton

 

The History of the ARTIST SERIES, Developed in Partnership with Hoshino Gakki and Fuji Strings

A miraculous guitar—only 98 in existence worldwide, with just 1.26 people out of every 100 million in the world lucky enough to own one: the 1958 Gibson Flying V
▶︎ Only 98 in the World! The 1958 Gibson Flying V

 

The Unstoppable Innovation of the Man Who Left Fender
▶︎Leo Fender and the Birth of MUSIC MAN

Is a guitar just about distortion? Absolutely not!
▶︎Breaking the Mold: B.C. Rich

We’ll explore the history of electric guitar tuners
▶︎A journey through the history of tuners with famous brands

We’ll unravel the history of electric guitar pickups and explore pickup brands.
▶︎The History of Pickups and the Trajectories of Pioneers

Since Gretsch already held the trademark for “Broadkaster” as a drum model, Fender was forced to change the name within a short period of time...
▶︎1951 Fender Nocaster “PROTO”

We’ve unearthed a nearly unused 1961 Fender Stratocaster!
▶︎Real Closet Classics

Highlighting Fender Japan, which stands out as a particularly popular brand among Japanese vintage guitars
▶︎FENDER JAPAN: The Dream Top-of-the-Line Model
▶︎Fender Japan JV Models
▶︎Fender Japan EXTRAD Models
▶︎Fender Japan Custom Edition

In the history of vintage guitars, we explain the models produced by era and, through teardown analyses, detail the characteristics and differences of each era, accompanied by photos.
▶︎Chapter 1: FENDER STRATOCASTER
▶︎Chapter 2: Gibson LES PAUL

Carrying on Leo’s legacy!? The dedication of a quirky, stubborn craftsman.
▶︎About T.S. Factory

A new initiative that brings players’ dreams and free-spirited concepts to life.
▶︎ReFINE Project

The ES-175: A legendary, long-selling masterpiece. Let’s explore the charm of the “Ichinana-go,” with its rich, lustrous tone even within its dry sound!!
▶︎The ES-175 Full-Acoustic, Loved by Master Musicians

What is GRECO’s History & the GO Series?
▶︎GRECO History and In-Depth Feature

When it comes to your instrument and its sound, you likely have at least some dissatisfaction or issues. Since replacing your guitar isn’t something you can do easily, let’s tweak the small parts to customize it to your liking!
▶︎Pickup Replacement: Beginner’s Guide
▶︎Maintenance: Beginner’s Guide
▶︎Heavy Bass Ranking! Down-Tuning Guide!
▶︎Synchronized Tremolo Bridge!! Floating Adjustment Guide!!

It’s no fun being just like everyone else! TC Gakki Original: Customizing Control Knobs
▶︎Knobs That Light Up According to the Selector Switch Position

TC Guitars treasures “Japan Vintage” as a beloved brand that Japan can be proud of
▶︎We Buy Japanese-Made “Japan Vintage” Guitars!!

What kind of adjustments have been made to the instruments you’re purchasing?
We’ll give you a straight answer!!
▶︎Electric Guitar Edition

We’ll explain how to change strings and adjust your guitar—questions we get surprisingly often in-store. We break down the specialized and somewhat complicated replacement process in a way that’s easy for beginners to understand.
▶︎I’d like to share various tips on how to string a guitar

A new guitar brand, “NOBUWORKS,” has emerged from Zaimokuza Beach in Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture. Inspired by the vast ocean and built on the technical expertise gained from manufacturing windsurf boards, these guitars boast exceptional craftsmanship and a truly unique character.
▶︎NOBUWORKS: The Ultimate Guitar Brand Born of the Sea

First, I’ll provide fascinating explanations about guitar strings from various perspectives, covering everything in detail—from gauge and tension to stringing techniques and maintenance. Let’s aim to become string enthusiasts!
▶︎Volume 1: The Story of Guitar Strings

Through these comparisons, you’ll likely make new discoveries about aspects you’ve never noticed before! I’m posting these entries as I learn something new every day—in my own selfish, whimsical way!
▶︎Part 1: Fender Precision Bass (1961 & 1992)
▶︎Part 2: Gibson Les Paul Gold Top (1956 & 2000)

Starting something new brings great anticipation and a touch of anxiety. For those of you feeling that way, “Choosing Your First Instrument” is here to help!
▶︎Choosing Your First Instrument
▶︎Electric Guitar
▶︎Electric Bass
▶︎Acoustic Guitar
▶︎Guitar Amplifiers
▶︎Effects Pedals
▶︎Drums
▶︎How to Choose a Music Store

A beginner-friendly rock course featuring YouTube clips and fun anecdotes about artists!
▶︎The Great Eccentrics Who Shaped the Dawn of Rock

A monster replica recreated with astonishing attention to detail. A thorough examination, leaving no detail overlooked!!
▶︎Transcending the boundaries of a replica, the explosive sound that captures its very spirit is here now!

B, W & R has done it again!!
A Custom Engraved Aluminum Pickguard featuring meticulous hand-carved engravings on corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy!
Exclusively available at TC Gakki!!
▶︎An ultra-cool pickguard from B, W & R!

Back then, a man named “Forbis” living in Columbia, Missouri...
▶︎1956 Gibson Les Paul Custom

Miraculously, several limited-edition Yamaha SG models arrived at once! We’ll thoroughly investigate each model and report back...
▶︎Yamaha SG Limited Edition Models

We’ve compiled everything—even those little “Wow!” facts—all in one place!
▶︎Learn with Oda♪ Fender Trivia

A legendary instrument with a design and name you’ll never forget once you see it, even in the history of original Japanese-made guitars.
▶︎The Story Behind the Moon Sault

Since Gretsch already held the trademark for “Broadkaster” as a drum name, Fender was forced to change the name within a short period of time...
▶︎1951 Fender Nocaster “PROTO”

List of Acoustic Guitar Articles

~Instrument Storage Tips from an Acoustic Guitar Specialty Store~

A Specialty Store’s Thorough Guide to Packing Acoustic Guitars, Complete with Photos!
▶︎The Complete Guide to Acoustic Guitar Packing Techniques Used by Pros

Easy-to-understand explanations from a TC Gakki repair perspective on the impact on the neck, storage methods, and precautions for long-term storage.

▶︎Should You “Really” Loosen the Strings on an Acoustic Guitar?

“There are so many types, I don’t know which one suits my guitar…”
▶︎An acoustic guitar specialty shop’s serious guide to choosing a pickup!

What Kind of Brand Is Epiphone, and What Was Its Ideal Sound?
▶︎The Artisans and Legendary Guitars That Built Epiphone’s Golden Age

Exploring the History and Full Scope of Rare Colors

A Legend That Lives On Today
▶︎Yamaha’s “Four Heavenly Kings”

The Charm of Antique Parlor Guitars
▶︎~Sounds from the 19th Century~

It all started when Len Ferguson’s son happened to come across an article we had written previously and sent us a message.
▶︎Former Gibson Master Luthier “Len Ferguson” 

A guitar once owned by Peter Fonda—famous for *Easy Rider* and *Outlaw Blues*—has arrived!
▶︎1944 Martin D-18, formerly owned by Peter Fonda

The one and only Martin in the world, inspired by Old America: the “Great Train Robbery SPECIAL”
▶︎1967 Martin D-28 “TRAIN”

Ovation’s Flagship Model: Adamas | Now is the time to delve deeply into the “ideal acoustic guitar” that Ovation has pursued!
▶︎The History of the Ovation Adamas

A handmade guitar where Warner Bros.’ vision shines through in every detail of its craftsmanship
▶︎ MOSSMAN SUPER CUSTOM by Baxendale

Extremely Rare! Unraveling the History and Features of a Model from the Hummingbird’s First Year of Release
▶︎Early ’60s HUMMINGBIRD Gallery

Introducing Japan’s “YAMAHA” acoustic guitars, a source of pride for the world
▶︎YAMAHA LEGEND HISTORY

The world’s first reference book on the Gibson SJ-200 from the pre-war era through the 1960s, based on actual measurements
▶︎KING OF THE FLAT-TOPS

It is rare to find a luthier who seems to be having a dialogue with the guitar rather than simply building it.
▶︎The Pursuit of Metaphysical Techniques and Philosophy

A Thorough Analysis of the History of Japanese-Made Acoustic Guitars!
▶︎Part 1: YAMAHA “Original Guitars Created by Pioneers”

A comprehensive analysis of the much-discussed rosewood, alongside Martin guitars—the brand that shaped the history of acoustic guitars!
▶︎Part 1: Countless Untold Secrets
▶︎Part 2: The Much-Talked-About Premium Rosewood “New Jacaranda”
▶︎Part 3: Rare Rosewoods Shining in the Shadow of New Jacaranda
▶︎Part 4: Post-Rosewood

The person most responsible for advancing Japan’s acoustic guitar culture!
▶︎The Unparalleled Guitar Designer: Terry Nakamoto

A column spotlighting the folk songs that defined an era and the guitars played by the artists who performed them!
▶︎Folk Song Jamboree

Introducing the ultimate masterpieces, known not only for their artisanal spirit and exceptional craftsmanship but also for their original designs born from a wealth of creativity.
▶︎Vol. 3 MOSSMAN SUPER CUSTOM by Baxendale

The “D-50 Deluxe,” adorned with Martin Guitars’ pinnacle, the ultimate “Tree of Life.” Please enjoy this true work of art alongside the other three pieces on display in the store.
▶︎Martin Guitars’ Pinnacle: The Ultimate “Tree of Life”

The ultimate masterpieces: Pre-War Martins and their history. Marvel at their historical value and sound that’s in a league of its own!
▶︎A miraculous gathering of the ultimate masterpieces: Pre-War Martins!!

A masterpiece that exudes intense impact, originality, and luxury!! Welcome to the opulent world of the Gibson 100th Anniversary Model SJ-200!
▶︎Welcome to the opulent world of the SJ-200!
▶︎SJ-200 Custom Line and More

This column features eight of Martin’s iconic “Shaded Top” guitars—not modern reissues, but the original models that defined their era.
▶︎Martin Shaded Top

I want to play that phrase from that song!!
We’re here to support you!!
▶︎Acoustic Guitars: Legendary Phrases Passed Down Through the Ages

It seems the sheer volume of pages and images sent our web team into a tailspin (wry smile), but their hard work paid off—this feature was a huge hit. I’m a huge Gibson fan! I’m already planning even more exciting projects for the future, so brace yourselves!
▶︎J-45 & J-50
▶︎Southern Jumbo & Country Western
▶︎J-200 & J-160E
▶︎Dove & Hummingbird
▶︎Small Body
▶︎Others

Pickups for acoustic guitars that amplify the instrument’s natural sound—a task that seems simple but is actually quite challenging. I’m giving it my all, partly as a learning experience for myself! Stay tuned for more!
▶︎Introduction
▶︎Chapter 1
▶︎Chapter 2

Starting something new brings great anticipation and a touch of anxiety. For those of you feeling that way, “Choosing Your First Instrument” is here to help!
▶︎Choosing Your First Instrument
▶︎Electric Guitar
▶︎Electric Bass
▶︎Acoustic Guitar
▶︎Guitar Amplifiers
▶︎Effects Pedals
▶︎Drums
▶︎How to Choose a Music Store

I’ve compiled a collection of short stories about [Martin] and [Gibson] acoustic guitars! There are 50 of them!!
▶︎Acoustic Guitars: 50 Short Stories That’ll Make You Say, “Huh?!!”

List of Articles on Effects Pedals and Amps

“You won’t find another brand in the whole world that can make pedals like these!”
▶︎The Wonderful World of DR.NO Effects

Sano, our effects specialist, explains their profound appeal and the evolution of their niche specifications

A Dream Collaboration Comes True! That Iconic Rockman Sound in a Compact Effects Pedal!
▶︎New Effects Pedal Project: “SUSTAINOR”

The Legendary Pedal Sano First Encountered: “TONE BENDER MkI”
▶︎TONEBENDER MK1

The contest returns after a two-year hiatus! The theme is “How to Enjoy Effects”
▶︎2nd Custom Effects Pedal Contest
▶︎1st Custom Effects Pedal Contest

Introducing the Legendary Wah-Wah Pedal: VOX Clyde McCoy Wah-Wah Pedal
▶︎The Legendary Wah-Wah Pedal: VOX Clyde McCoy Wah-Wah Pedal

Every guitarist has probably thought at least once, “I want to recreate the sounds of those guitarists I hear on CDs and tapes!”—but it’s surprisingly difficult to do. Our ROCKMANN-loving staff will provide brief explanations of each model.
▶︎Effects Pedals That Produce Unique Sounds

A Dream Collaboration Comes True! That Rockmann Sound in a Compact Effects Pedal!
▶︎TC Instruments’ New Effects Pedal Project

Starting something new brings great anticipation and a little bit of anxiety. For those of you feeling that way, “Choosing Your First Instrument” is here to help!
▶︎Choosing Your First Instrument
▶︎Electric Guitar
▶︎Electric Bass
▶︎Acoustic Guitar
▶︎Guitar Amplifiers
▶︎Effects Pedals
▶︎Drums
▶︎How to Choose a Music Store

A serious column that passionately, thoroughly, and deeply delves into the sounds of various amplifiers, including Marshall, Boogie, and Fender. A must-see!
▶︎Part 1! Marshall JCM800
▶︎Part 2! Marshall JCM900
▶︎Part 3! Fender Amp.
▶︎Part 4! Mesa/Boogie
▶︎Part 5! Speakers
▶︎Part 6! How to Find Your Ideal Sound!

A sister event to our store’s most popular series, the “Custom Guitar Contest”! This year’s theme is effects pedals.
▶︎The 1st Custom Effects Pedal Contest is Here!

Electric Bass Article List

Why didn’t Gibson basses become the standard for electric basses? Why do they still captivate us so much? We explore the lineage of the EB series and its appeal.
▶︎The History of Gibson Bass ~EB Series Edition~

The Unstoppable Innovation of the Man Who Left Fender
▶︎Leo Fender and the Birth of MUSIC MAN

Structure provides the foundation; philosophy brings it to life.
Atlansia: A utopia of sound where creation and challenge never cease.
▶︎The Continent of Creation ~The Philosophy of Atlansia~

“Video” – I Played It and Found Out: Energy, Presence, and Power!
▶︎Why Not Become a Fender “Vintage Bass” Owner?

Through these comparisons, you’ll surely discover new aspects you’ve never noticed before! I’m posting these articles as I learn more every day—even if they’re a bit self-indulgent and whimsical!
▶︎Part 1: Fender Precision Bass (1961 & 1992 Models)

I’m researching and reporting on Rickenbackers from various angles, partly for my own education. You’ll find plenty to read about, including surprising historical facts and structural secrets.
▶ Lab

“Ludwig”—an object of admiration for many drummers and a favorite of countless star players. Let’s take a closer look at this giant of the drum world.
▶︎Ludwig Series
▶︎Ludwig Special Edition
▶︎Ludwig Emergency Interview
▶︎Ludwig: Reviving the Vintage Sound

A Historical Overview by Ken Smith and His Encounter with His Son Jon
▶Ken Smith and the Evolution of the Electric Bass

Starting something new brings great anticipation and a touch of anxiety. For those of you feeling this way, “Choosing Your First Instrument” is here to help!
▶︎Choosing Your First Instrument
▶︎Electric Guitar
▶︎Electric Bass
▶︎Acoustic Guitar
▶︎Guitar Amplifiers
▶︎Effects Pedals
▶︎Drums
▶︎How to Choose a Music Store

Introducing Highly Acclaimed Japanese-Made Basses That Defined an Era!
▶︎Part 1
▶︎Part 2
▶︎Part 3

List of Wind Instrument Articles

A Diary of Restoring a Used Saxophone: A Photo-Illustrated Guide to Disassembling a Selmer Paris SERIE 2.
▶︎The Journey of a Used Saxophone to the Store Shelf

Introducing the treasured instruments slumbering deep within TC Instruments’ collection!?
In this first installment, we’ll give you a comprehensive look at the “Varitone” electric saxophone system manufactured by H.&A. Selmer Inc. (commonly known as “American Selmer”) in 1965!!
▶︎Part 1: SELMER VALITONE
▶︎Part 2: SELMER VALITONE In Search of Masters

Corno da caccia, cimbasso, basset horn, oboe musette, contrabass flute, and more.
We offer cash purchases for any rare wind instrument.
▶︎Please sell us your rarely used, unique wind instruments!

When you buy a used wind instrument, do you ever find it hard to play because it’s been shaped by the previous owner’s playing style???
▶︎Are used wind instruments hard to play because they have a “personality”?

Caring for your wind instrument is part of improving your playing
-To ensure a long and worry-free relationship with your instrument-
▶︎Part 1 -Saxophone-
▶︎Part 2 -Clarinet-
▶︎Part 3 -Flute-
▶︎Part 4 -Trumpet-

This page is our loud and clear appeal: “Please sell your brass instruments—and sell them again!!” Why is selling to our store the best deal? It’ll be crystal clear once you read through this. If you’re thinking of selling your brass instruments, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We have the industry’s No. 1 track record for high-value appraisals.
▶︎Guide to Cash Purchases of Brass Instruments

List of Articles on Traditional Japanese Instruments, String Instruments, Drums, and More

Explanation of Traditional Japanese Musical Instruments. Played in the highly unique traditional performances “Gagaku” and “Kabuki.”
▶︎The Basics of Japanese Musical Instruments

We’ve compiled some handy tips that are beginner-friendly to help you fall even more in love with string instruments.
▶︎20 Fun Facts About String Instruments

"Ludwig"—a brand admired by many drummers and beloved by countless star players. Let’s take a closer look at this giant of the drum world.
▶︎Ludwig Edition
▶︎Ludwig Special Edition
▶︎Ludwig Emergency Interview
▶︎Ludwig: Reviving the Vintage Sound

Ukulele & Bluegrass Article List

Premium, rare items that only winners could purchase. We also introduce other rare Kamaka ukuleles!
▶︎Kamaka Ukulele Custom Shop Collection

Introducing the appeal of Martin ukuleles, along with specifications and model comparisons. With talents like the genius ukulele player Jake Shimabukuro, there are signs of a resurgence in popularity.
▶︎The Appeal of Martin Ukuleles and Model Comparisons

Titled “The TC Instruments Way to Enjoy Bluegrass,” we introduce mandolins and banjos related to bluegrass music!
▶︎The TC Instruments Way to Enjoy Bluegrass

List of General and Cross-Genre Articles

An epic romance depicting a musician’s inner turmoil!
▶︎Takashi’s Struggle to Raise Money
▶︎The Cute Girl

Behind-the-scenes stories of the captivating image ads featuring “vintage instruments” published in *Player* magazine. We’ve compiled a year’s worth of commentary on these ads—which (apparently) influenced various fields—along with behind-the-scenes stories from the photo shoots. Packed with hilarious moments, including nearly falling off a cliff, using a real fighter jet, and jamming a guitar through someone’s head on the beach.
▶︎Magazine Ads: Behind the Scenes

As part of our disaster relief efforts, we donated guitars.
We would be overjoyed if we could offer even the slightest support to everyone working toward recovery.
▶︎Let’s Resonate Together: The Circle of Support

As a used music store that polishes instruments more than most, we’re going to show you just how serious we are about our cleaning cloths!
▶︎They Look the Same, but They’re So Different! Maintenance Supplies You’ll Be Glad to Know About

It all started with the idea, “Let’s create our own theme song to raise funds for those suffering from the disaster!”—a CD production project involving our entire staff. Each staff member took charge of everything from writing lyrics and composing music to performing and recording, resulting in a wild and chaotic journey to complete the CD. You can even watch the making-of video now!
▶︎This page introduces the process by which the entire TC Gakki staff created our store’s theme song

We’ve started selling ultra-rare, MIL-spec (U.S. military standard) strap rings at a special cash-only price, available in-store only!!
▶︎TC Instruments Original Strap Rings

All the blunders we made back in the days when we ran numerous ads in *Player* magazine
▶︎We actually ran ads like this 💦

With a stock of about 3,000 used instruments made from a variety of woods, it feels just like a botanical collection where materials from different eras have gathered from all over the world.
▶︎Notes on a Tree-Planting Experience: What I Can Do to Be Eco-Friendly