Packed with useful information about musical instruments!

TCGAKKI Magazine

It's embarrassing to have your ignorance exposed.
I don't want to feel embarrassed.


Have you ever felt embarrassed because of a little gap in your knowledge when talking about instruments or music?

These days on social media, it's commonplace to see people constantly trying to outdo each other with their knowledge in a sea of information. It's not uncommon to be immediately called out for a minor mistake or criticized for what you don't know. What's more, this information is often unreliable and unsourced.

I completely understand how you feel.

Information is readily searchable, but I'm even unsure if what I've looked up is correct, and in the end, I become afraid to even speak up...
It's frustrating, isn't it? Just wanting to talk about your favorite instrument, yet feeling awkward and self-conscious just because you lack confidence in your knowledge.

To you who love instruments,TCGAKKICompiled by our group staff with real-world experience and solid knowledge【TCGAKKI[Magazine] is now available! Packed with real, useful information for all instrument fans, whether pro or amateur!

This "TCGAKKIMagazine covers a wide range of topics, including beginner-friendly HOWTO articles, the history of legendary instruments, noteworthy guitars, and the state of wood sourcing. Produced based on our staff's hands-on experience with the instruments themselves and reliable information, it offers outstanding credibility.
In particular, our feature articles on guitars that have made history or are one-of-a-kind instruments offer deep insights only possible from a shop that has owned those very instruments.

From the very day you read it, your music life is sure to become richer!
Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn while having fun!
You're sure to find the perfect article for you!

Show off in conversations with your bandmates and music buddies!
Check it out now!


- Latest Articles -

"Hard cases are heavy and a pain."
Why not stop holding it in?
▶︎A gig case designed by an acoustic guitar specialist at a music store

The History of the ARTIST SERIES: Walking with Hoshino Gakki and Fujigen

Uncovering the History and Full Scope of Rare Colors

What kind of brand was Epiphone originally, and what kind of sound did it idealize?
▶︎Epiphone: The Master Craftsmen and Legendary Instruments That Built the Golden Age

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

Is it just about distortion? Absolutely not!
▶︎Breaking Stereotypes B.C. Rich

A Journey Through Tuner History with Famous Brands

▶︎Focusing on electric guitar tuners, we'll explore their history.

Tokyo's Shin-Okubo: A New Landmark
▶︎~D-45 Forest~

A legend still told today
▶︎YAMAHA L Four Heavenly Kings

electric guitar


Why did Aria Pro II create PE?
▶︎Tracing the Untold History of Japanese Vintage

We'll explore the history of electric guitar pickups and the pickup brands.
▶︎The History of Pickup and the Trajectory of Great Figures

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

Unearthed a nearly unused 1961 Fender Stratocaster!
▶︎Real Closet Classic

Among Japan Vintage, we spotlight the notably popular Fender Japan
▶︎FENDER JAPAN Dream Top-of-the-Line Model
▶︎Fender Japan JV Model
▶︎Fender Japan EXTRAD Model
▶︎Fender Japan Custom Edition

In the history of vintage guitars, we explain models produced by era, along with disassembly guides, illustrating the characteristics and differences of each period through photographs.
▶︎Chapter 1: FENDER STRATOCASTER
▶︎Chapter 2 Gibson LES PAUL

Inheriting Leo's genes!? The stubborn craftsman's uncompromising dedication.
▶︎About T.S. Factory

This is a new endeavor to bring players' dreams and free concepts to life.
▶︎ReFINE Project

The legendary ES-175, an ultra-long-selling masterpiece. Let's explore the charm of the "175"—its dry yet rich, lustrous tone!!
▶︎The ES-175, beloved by master musicians


What is GRECO's History & GO Series?
▶︎GRECO: History and Detailed Feature

Most guitarists have at least some dissatisfaction or issues with their instrument's sound. Since buying a new one isn't easy, why not tweak the small parts to customize your guitar to your liking?
▶︎Pickup Replacement Primer
▶︎Maintenance: Beginner Level
▶︎Deep Bass Ranking! Down Tuning Guide!
▶︎Synchronized Tremolo Bridge!! Floating Adjustment Tutorial!! Edition

Being the same as everyone else is boring!TCGAKKIOriginal Control Knob Customization
▶︎A knob that illuminates according to the position of the selector switch

TCGAKKIWe carefully purchase "Japan Vintage" as a beloved brand Japan takes pride in.
▶︎We buy domestic guitars—"Japan Vintage" models!!

The Gibson 1958 Flying V—a miraculous guitar with only 98 in existence worldwide, owned by a fortunate few representing just 1.26 in 100 million of the global population.
▶︎Only 98 in the world! 1958 Gibson FLYING V

Introducing the ultimate masterpiece, renowned for its master craftsman spirit and exceptional skill, combined with its original designs born from a wealth of ideas.
▶︎Vol.1 Abe Rivera '80s SEPTER ECLIPSE
▶︎Vol.3 MOSSMAN SUPER CUSTOM by Baxendale
▶︎Vol.4 ZEMAITIS 1996 METAL FRONT

The secret to improvement starts with a healthy instrument! Our professional repair technicians will diagnose and check every problem area!
Luxury galore! We create our original "Instrument Health Check Report." If it's a simple fix, we can repair it right on the spot!
▶︎Instrument Health Checkup

What kind of adjustments have been made to the instrument you are purchasing?
I'll give you a straight answer!!
▶︎Electric Guitar Edition

We explain how to restring and adjust your guitar—a surprisingly common question we get in-store. We break down this specialized and slightly tricky technique in a way that's easy for beginners to understand.
▶︎I'd like to write about various aspects of stringing techniques.

From Zaimokuza Beach in Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, comes the new guitar brand "NOBUWORKS." Drawing inspiration from the vast ocean and leveraging expertise honed through windsurf board manufacturing, it achieves an exceptionally high level of craftsmanship and radiates a truly unique character.
▶︎The supreme guitar brand born of the sea NOBUWORKS

First, we provide fascinating insights into guitar strings from various perspectives, covering everything from gauge and tension to stringing techniques and maintenance. Aim to become a string enthusiast!
▶︎Volume 1: The Story of Guitar Strings

Comparisons will surely lead to new discoveries in areas previously unseen! I'm posting daily while learning myself, completely self-indulgent and self-centered!
▶︎First Release: Fender Precision Bass (1961 & 1992 Models)
▶︎Second Installment: Gibson Les Paul Gold Top 1956 & 2000

Starting something new brings great expectations and a little bit of anxiety. For those feeling this way, 'Choosing Your First Instrument' is here to help!
▶︎Choosing Your First Instrument
▶︎electric guitar
▶︎ElectricBass
▶︎Acoustic Guitar
▶︎Guitar amplifier
▶︎Effector
▶︎Drum
▶︎How to Choose a Music Store

A beginner-friendly rock music course featuring fun stories about YouTube and artists!
▶︎The Great Eccentrics Who Pioneered the Dawn of Rock

Monster replicas recreated with astonishing attention to detail. Thoroughly verified down to the finest point!!
▶︎Beyond mere replication—the spirit-recreating blast sound is here now!

B, W&R did it again!!
Custom Engraved Aluminum Pickguard featuring meticulous hand-crafted engraving on corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy!
TCGAKKICurrently available!!
▶︎The super cool Access Guard B, W&R is here!

At the time, a man named Forbis living in Columbia, Missouri, USA...
▶︎1956 Gibson Les Paul Custom

MiraculouslyYAMAHA SGA few limited edition models have arrived at once! We'll thoroughly investigate each model and report back...
▶︎YAMAHA SG Limited Edition Model

We've compiled everything—even the kind of knowledge that makes you go "Huh?"—all in one place!
▶︎Learning with Oda♪Fender Trivia

A legendary instrument with a design and name you'll never forget once you've seen it, even in the history of domestic original guitars.
▶︎The Feelings Entrusted to Moon Sault

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

Acoustic Guitar

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

~Always by the side of musicians, no matter the era~
▶︎The History of the J-50, "A Good Partner"


I happened to come across an article we had previously produced.Ren FergusonIt all started when his son sent me a message.
▶︎Gibson's former master luthierRen Ferguson” 

Peter Fonda's guitar—famous for Easy Rider and Outlaw Blues—has arrived!
▶︎Peter Fonda's 1944 Martin D-18

The one and only Martin, themed on Old America, the only one in the world, "Great Train Robbery SPECIAL"
▶︎1967 Martin D-28 "TRAIN"


Ovation's pinnacle = AdamasNow is the time to deeply explore the 'Ideal Acoustic' Ovation has pursued!
▶︎The Journey of Ovation Adamas

Handcrafted guitars showcasing Warner Bros.' passion and masterful craftsmanship throughout
▶︎ MOSSMAN SUPER CUSTOM by Baxendale

Ultra-rare! Unraveling the History and Features of Hummingbird Units from Its First Year of Release
▶︎Early '60s HUMMINGBIRD Gallery


Introducing Japan's world-renowned "YAMAHA" acoustic guitars
▶︎YAMAHA LEGEND HISTORY

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

A luthier who seems to converse with the guitar rather than merely crafting it is a rare find.
▶︎Metaphysical Methods and Philosophical Inquiry

A Deep Dive into the History of Japanese-Made Acoustic Guitars!
▶︎First Release: YAMAHA "Original Guitars Created by Pioneers"

He is the greatest contributor to the development of Japan's acoustic guitar culture!
▶︎The Lonely Guitar Designer Terry Nakamoto

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

Introducing the ultimate masterpiece, renowned for its master craftsman spirit and exceptional skill, combined with its original designs born from a wealth of ideas.
▶︎Vol.3 MOSSMAN SUPER CUSTOM by Baxendale

The pinnacle of Martin guitars, the ultimate "Tree of Life"-adorned "D-50 Deluxe." Enjoy this true work of art alongside the other three pieces displayed in our store.
▶︎Martin Guitars' pinnacle, the ultimate "Tree of Life"

The supreme masterpiece, the Pre-War Martin and its history. Marvel at its historical value and sound of another dimension!
▶︎A miraculous gathering of supreme masterpieces, Pre-War Martins!!

A masterpiece boasting intense impact, originality, and luxury!! Welcome to the magnificent world of the Gibson 100th Anniversary Model SJ-200!
▶︎Welcome to the magnificent world of the SJ-200!
▶︎SJ-200 Custom Line and others

This column features eight Martin guitars boasting the legendary Shaded Top—not modern reissues, but original instruments that defined their era.
▶︎Martin Shaded Top

I want to play that song's phrase!!
I want to cheer you on!!
▶︎Acoustic Guitar: Timeless Phrases Passed Down Through Generations

The sheer volume of pages and images seems to have plunged our web team into the depths of despair (wry smile), but their hard work paid off with this well-received feature article. As a huge Gibson fan myself, I'm already planning even more powerful projects for the future—so brace yourselves!
▶︎J-45 & J-50
▶︎Southern Jumbo & Country Western
▶︎J-200 & J-160E
▶︎Dove & Hummingbird
▶︎Small Body
▶︎Others

Amplifying the raw sound of an acoustic guitar... a seemingly simple yet surprisingly tricky pickup for acoustic guitars. I'm putting in the effort, partly for my own learning! Stay tuned for more!
▶︎Prologue
▶︎Chapter One
▶︎Chapter Two

Starting something new brings great expectations and a little bit of anxiety. For those feeling this way, 'Choosing Your First Instrument' is here to help!
▶︎Choosing Your First Instrument
▶︎electric guitar
▶︎ElectricBass
▶︎Acoustic Guitar
▶︎Guitar amplifier
▶︎Effector
▶︎Drum
▶︎How to Choose a Music Store

I've squeezed out 50 little stories about acoustic guitars—Martin and Gibson!
▶︎Acoustic Guitar: 50 Short Stories That'll Make You Say "Huh?!!"

Effector・Amplifier


The dream collaboration is here! That classic Mega Man sound in a compact packageEffectorHey!
▶︎NewEffectorProject "SUSTAINOR」

The legendary pedal Sano first encountered: "TONE BENDER MkI"
▶︎TONEBENDER MK1

The contest returns after a two-year hiatus!EffectorThe theme is "How to Enjoy..."
▶︎Part 2: ModificationEffectorContest
▶︎First ModificationEffectorContest

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

If you're a guitarist, you've probably thought at least once: "I want to get that sound I hear from guitarists on CDs and tapes!" But it's surprisingly difficult. Our ROCKMANN-loving staff will give you a quick rundown of each model.
▶︎Produce a distinctive soundEffector

The dream collaboration is here! That classic Mega Man sound in a compact packageEffectorHey!
▶︎TCGAKKI NewEffectorPlanning

Starting something new brings great expectations and a little bit of anxiety. For those feeling this way, 'Choosing Your First Instrument' is here to help!
▶︎Choosing Your First Instrument
▶︎electric guitar
▶︎ElectricBass
▶︎Acoustic Guitar
▶︎Guitar amplifier
▶︎Effector
▶︎Drum
▶︎How to Choose a Music Store

Marshall, Boogie, Fender—this serious column delves passionately, intensely, and deeply into the obsessions with the sound of various amps. Must-read!
▶︎First Release! Marshall JCM800
▶︎Second Installment! Marshall JCM900
▶︎Third Installment! Fender Amp.
▶︎Fourth Installment! Mesa/Boogie
▶︎Fifth Installment! Speaker
▶︎Part 6! How to Find Your Ideal Sound!

A sister event to our most popular contest, the "Custom Guitar Contest"! This year's theme isEffectoris.
▶︎First ModificationEffectorContest Announcement!

Bass・Drum


The structure provides support; the philosophy resonates.
Atlantica, the ideal realm of sound where creation and challenge never cease.

▶︎The Philosophy of Atlansia: The Continent of Creation

"Video" Played and Discovered: Energy Level, Presence, Attack Power!
▶︎Fender VintageBassWould you like to become the owner of ""?

Comparisons will surely lead to new discoveries in areas previously unseen! I'm posting daily while learning myself, completely self-indulgent and self-centered!
▶︎First Release: Fender Precision Bass '61 & '92 Models

I'm researching and reporting on RICKENBACKER from various angles, partly for my own studies. You'll find plenty to read about, including surprising history and structural secrets.
▶Laboratory

Ludwig—a brand revered by countless drummers and favored by numerous star players. We take a closer look at this giant of the drum world.
▶︎Ludwig Edition
▶︎Ludwig Side Story
▶︎Ludwig Emergency Interview
▶︎Ludwig Revives Vintage Sound

Historical Explanation from Ken Smith and Meeting His Son Jon
▶Ken Smith and ElectricBassdevelopment

Starting something new brings great expectations and a little bit of anxiety. For those feeling this way, 'Choosing Your First Instrument' is here to help!
▶︎Choosing Your First Instrument
▶︎electric guitar
▶︎ElectricBass
▶︎Acoustic Guitar
▶︎Guitar amplifier
▶︎Effector
▶︎Drum
▶︎How to Choose a Music Store

A renowned domestic product that raced through the agesBassIntroducing!
▶︎Part One
▶︎Part Two
▶︎Part Three

Wind instruments, Japanese traditional instruments, string instruments


TCGAKKIIntroducing the treasured instruments sleeping deep within!?
The first installment will showcase the Varitone electric saxophone system by H.&A. Selmer Inc. (commonly known as American Selmer), which debuted in 1965!!
▶︎Part 1: SELMER VALITONE
▶︎Part 2: Finding the SELMER VALITONE Master

Corno da caccia, cimbasso. Basset horn, oboe d'amore, contrabass flute, and so on.
We offer cash purchases for any type of specialty wind instrument.
▶︎Sell your rarely used specialty wind instruments!

When you buy a used wind instrument, doesn't it feel awkward to play because it's been shaped by the previous owner's habits???
▶︎Used wind instruments are tricky to play because they have quirks?!

When we ask customers about their daily care routines, fewer than half are doing it correctly. In fact, far more people than expected were using incorrect methods based on their own assumptions, which is why we urgently created this page.
▶︎First Release -SAX-
▶︎Second Installment -Clarinet-
▶︎Third Installment -Flute-

"Sell your gold, sell it again!"—this page loudly proclaims. Why is selling to us the most profitable choice? One glance will make it crystal clear. When selling your gold items, please consult us. Our high-value appraisals boast the industry's No. 1 track record.
▶︎Cash Purchase Service for Brass Instruments

What kind of adjustments have been made to the instrument you are purchasing?
I'll give you a straight answer!!
▶︎Wind Instruments Edition

Explanation of the Traditional Japanese Musical Instrument. Played in the very unique traditional performances "Gagaku" and "Kabuki".
▶︎The Basics of Japanese Musical Instruments

We've compiled handy tips to help beginners fall even more in love with string instruments.
▶︎20 Fun Facts About String Instruments

General/Non-Genre


A grand romance depicting the inner struggles of a musician!
▶︎Takashi's Money-Making Struggles
▶︎The Cute Girl Edition

Behind the Scenes of Enchanting Image Ads Featuring Vintage Instruments, Originally Published in "Player" Magazine. A Year's Worth of Insights into Those Ads (Reportedly) Influential Across Industries, Plus Behind-the-Scenes Stories from the Shoots. Packed with comedic moments like nearly falling off a cliff, using a real fighter jet, and impaling a guitar through one's head on the beach.
▶︎Behind the Scenes of Magazine Advertising Shoots

As part of our disaster relief efforts, we donated guitars.
To all those working toward recovery, if we have been able to offer even a little assistance, we could not be more grateful.
▶︎Let's Resonate Together Circle of Support

As the used instrument shop that polishes instruments most often, we'll show you our obsession with cleaning cloths to the fullest!
▶︎They look the same, but they're so different! Must-know skincare essentials

A CD production story featuring the entire staff, all participating with the goal of raising donations for disaster victims. Starting with the idea, "Let's make our own theme song!" Each staff member handled everything from lyrics and composition to performance and recording, resulting in a chaotic story of the CD's creation. You can even watch the making-of video now!
▶︎TCGAKKIThis page introduces the process by which all staff members collaborated to create the store's theme song.

MIL-Spec (U.S. Military Standard) Compliant Heavy-Duty Ultra-Rare [Strap Ring] Now Available in-Store Only at Special Cash Price!!
▶︎TCGAKKIOriginal Strap Ring

The many mistakes made during the era when Player magazine carried numerous advertisements
▶︎They were running this ad.💦

With around 3,000 used instruments gathering here, it feels like a botanical herbarium where materials of different ages have converged from all over the world.
▶︎Tree-Planting Experience Notes: What Eco-Friendly Actions Can I Do Myself?


Ukulele, Bluegrass, and others


Premium rare items available only to winners. Introducing other rare Kamaka ukuleles!
▶︎Kamaka Ukulele Custom Shop Collection

We're upgrading our microphones and offering top dollar for your unwanted ones to support your recording projects!
▶︎We buy used microphones!

TCGAKKIEnjoying Bluegrass: Introducing Mandolins and Banjos Related to Bluegrass Music!
▶︎TCGAKKIEnjoying Bluegrass

Introducing the appeal of Martin ukuleles, along with specifications and model comparisons. Signs of a resurgence are emerging, led by genius ukulele player Jake Shimabukuro.
▶︎The Appeal of Martin Ukuleles and Model Comparison