Packed with useful information about musical instruments!
TCGAKKI 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 instruments or music?
These days, on social media and elsewhere, it’s common to see people showing off their knowledge in the midst of a sea of information—a constant battle to one-up each other. It’s not uncommon to get 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 that feeling.
You can look up information instantly, but you’re unsure if what you found is even correct, and in the end, you become too afraid to even speak up…
It’s frustrating to feel left out just because you lack confidence in your knowledge, even though all you want to do is talk about the instrument you love.
For you, the TCGAKKI group staff—who love instruments just as much as you do—have put together the 【TCGAKKI Magazine】, based on our real-world experience and solid knowledge! It’s packed with authentic, useful information for all instrument fans, whether you’re a pro or an amateur!
This “TCGAKKI Magazine” covers a wide range of topics, from HOWTO articles recommended for beginners to the history of legendary instruments, featured guitars, and the latest on wood types. 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 read it!
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn and enjoy at the same time!
You’re sure to find an article that’s just right for you!
Impress your bandmates and fellow music lovers with your new knowledge!
Check it out now!
- Latest Articles -
We’re doing it again! Entries are now open for TCGAKKI’s popular “Custom Guitar Contest”! ~ Until August 31
▶︎ The 6th Custom Guitar Contest
Stories of the Great Figures Who Built the Brand
▶︎ 1. Ted McCarty
Sano, the editor of Effector, explains its 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
The History of the ARTIST SERIES, Developed in Partnership with Hoshino Gakki and Fuji Strings
Exploring the History and Full Scope of Rare Colors
What Kind of Brand Was Epiphone Originally, and What Was Its Ideal Sound?
▶︎The Craftsmen and Legendary Instruments That Built Epiphone’s Golden Age
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
Electric Guitars
A Journey Through the History of Tuners with Famous Brands
▶︎We’ll explore the history of electric guitar tuners.
Why Did Aria Pro II Create the PE?
▶︎Tracing the little-known history of Japanese vintage gear
We’ll unravel the history of electric guitar pickups and the brands behind them.
▶︎The History of Pickups and the Trajectories of Pioneers
Since Gretsch already held the trademark for “Broadcaster” for drums, 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
Our No. 1 Popular Event: “Custom Guitar Contest”
▶︎5th Custom Guitar Contest 2024
▶︎4th Custom Guitar Contest 2022
▶︎ 3rd Custom Guitar Contest 2020
▶︎2nd Custom Guitar Contest 2018
▶︎1st Custom Guitar Contest 2014
Spotlight on Fender Japan, a standout favorite among Japanese vintage guitars
▶︎FENDER JAPAN: The Ultimate Dream Model
▶︎Fender Japan JV Models
▶︎Fender Japan EXTRAD Model
▶︎Fender Japan Custom Edition
Exploring the history of vintage guitars: Explanations of models produced by era, along with teardown analyses illustrating 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 stubborn, maverick craftsman.
▶︎About T.S. Factory
Introducing our original instrument series, "full of playful spirit"
▶︎ TCGAKKI and Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C.—A Miraculous Collaboration!
▶︎Original Instrument Series Vol. 2: Cocoa Cigarette Electric Guitar
▶︎Original Instrument Series, Part 3: ATD-GT (Fighter Jet)
▶︎But Still, the Galette Guitar
▶︎SAN’O’FACE
A new initiative that brings players’ dreams and free-spirited concepts to life.
▶︎ReFINE Project
The ES-175, a legendary instrument and long-time bestseller. Let’s explore the charm of the “Ichinana-go”—its rich, lustrous tone that retains a dry quality!!
▶︎ The Full-Acoustic ES-175, Loved by Masters
What is GRECO’s History & the GO Series?
▶︎GRECO History and In-Depth Feature
Most of us have at least some dissatisfaction or issues with our instruments when it comes to sound. Since replacing your guitar isn’t always an option, let’s tweak the small parts to customize it to your liking
▶︎Pickup Replacement: Beginner’s Guide
▶︎Beginner’s Guide to Maintenance
▶︎Heavy Bass Ranking! Down-Tuning Guide!
▶︎Synchronized Tremolo Bridge!! Floating Adjustment Guide!!
Being the same as everyone else is boring! TCGAKKI Customizing Original Control Knobs
▶︎Knobs That Light Up According to the Selector Switch Position
TCGAKKI We proudly purchase "Japan Vintage" as a beloved brand that Japan can be proud of
▶︎We Buy Japanese-Made "Japan Vintage" Guitars!!
A miraculous guitar—the 1958 Gibson Flying V—of which only 98 were made worldwide. The lucky few who own one are just 1.26 out of every 100 million people.
▶︎Only 98 in the world! 1958 Gibson FLYING V
Introducing a supreme masterpiece known for its artisanal spirit, exceptional craftsmanship, and original design born from a wealth of creativity
▶︎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 for any issues!
Exuding luxury! We’ll create our store’s original “Instrument Health Certificate.” If the issue is easily fixable, we can repair it on the spot!
▶︎Instrument Health Check
What kind of adjustments has the instrument you’re purchasing undergone?
We’ll give you a straight answer!!
▶︎Electric Guitar Edition
We explain how to change strings and adjust your instrument—questions we get surprisingly often in-store. We break down the specialized and slightly 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, we provide fascinating explanations about guitar strings from various perspectives, covering everything in detail from gauge and tension to stringing and maintenance. Aim to become a string enthusiast!
▶︎Volume 1: The Story of Guitar Strings
Through comparison, you’ll likely discover new aspects you’ve never noticed before! I’m posting these entries daily as I continue to learn—and I’m doing it all on my own terms!
▶︎Part 1: Fender Precision Bass (1961 & 1992)
▶︎Part 2: Gibson Les Paul Gold Top (1956 & 2000)
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 GuitarBass
▶︎Acoustic Guitars
▶︎Guitar Amplifiers
▶︎Effector
▶︎Drums
▶︎How to Choose a Music Store
A beginner-friendly rock music course featuring YouTube clips and fun stories about artists!
▶︎The Great Eccentrics Who Shaped the Dawn of Rock
Staff member Karibe presents a spotlight on one “intriguing” item, chosen entirely based on his own personal preferences and biases
▶︎Part 1: "Heerby"—A Hidden Gem? Japanese Vintage
▶︎Part 2: “Fresher”—A Surprising Guitar with Built-in Effects
▶︎Part 3: "Ibanez" – Made in Japan! Models for International Artists!
▶︎Part 4 :KAWAI “Moonsault”—Captivated by the Romance of Space
▶︎Part 5 :Stingray – The NAMM Anniversary Model Celebrating Its “100th Anniversary”!!
▶︎Special Feature: "TC GAKKI × SPIN GEAR × YOYOJAM"—Create Your Own Original Yo-Yo!!
▶︎Part 6: Atlantis
A monster replica recreated with astonishing attention to detail. A thorough examination of every last detail!!
▶︎Transcending the boundaries of a replica, the explosive sound that captures its spirit is here now!
B, W&R have done it again!!
A Custom Engraved Aluminum Pickguard featuring meticulous hand-carved engraving on corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy!
Available exclusively at TCGAKKI!!
▶︎ An ultra-cool accessory from B, W&R!
Back in the day, a man named "Forbis" living in Columbia, Missouri...
▶︎1956 Gibson Les Paul Custom
Miraculously, several limited-edition Yamaha SG models have arrived at once! We’ll thoroughly investigate each model and report back...
▶︎YAMAHA SG Limited Edition Models
We’ve compiled everything—including some fun trivia that’ll make you go “Huh!”—all in one place!
▶︎Learn with Oda♪ Fender Trivia
A legendary instrument with a design and name you’ll never forget, even in the history of Japanese original guitars
▶︎The Story Behind the Moon Sault
Since Gretsch already held the trademark for “Broadkaster” for drums, Fender was forced to change the name within a short period of time...
▶︎1951 Fender Nocaster “PROTO”
Acoustic Guitar
A Legend That Lives On
▶︎YAMAHA L “Four Heavenly Kings”
A New Landmark in Shin-Okubo, Tokyo
▶︎~The Forest of D-45~
The Charm of Antique Parlor Guitars
▶︎~Sounds from the 19th Century~
~Always by the musician’s side, through the ages~
▶︎The History of the "Good Partner" J-50
"The Workhorse"
▶︎~The History of the Gibson J-45~
History of Gibson Dove
It all started when the son of Ren Ferguson, who happened to come across an article we had written previously, sent us a message.
▶︎Former Gibson Master Luthier “Ren Ferguson”
A guitar once owned by Peter Fonda, famous for *Easy Rider* and *Outlaw Blues*, has arrived!
▶︎1944 Martin D-18 Owned by Peter Fonda
The world’s only one—a one-of-a-kind Martin inspired by Old America: “The Great Train Robbery SPECIAL”
▶︎1967 Martin D-28 "TRAIN"
Ovation’s pinnacle: Adamas. Now is the time to deeply explore the “ideal acoustic” that Ovation has pursued!
▶︎The History of Ovation Adamas
A handmade guitar where Warner Bros.’ vision shines through in every detail
▶︎ MOSSMAN SUPER CUSTOM by Baxendale
Extremely Rare! Unraveling the History and Characteristics of a Model from the First Year of the Hummingbird’s Release
▶︎Early '60s HUMMINGBIRD Gallery
Introducing Acoustic Guitars from Japan’s World-Renowned “YAMAHA”
▶︎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 conversing with the guitar rather than simply building it
▶︎Metaphysical Methods and the Pursuit of Philosophy
A thorough dissection of the history of Japanese-made acoustic guitars!
▶︎Volume 1: YAMAHA "Original Guitars Created by Pioneers"
A comprehensive look at the much-talked-about rosewood, alongside Martin guitars that have shaped the history of acoustic guitars!
▶︎Part 1: Countless Untold Secrets
▶︎Part 2: The Much-Talked-About Premium Rosewood "New Jacaranda"
▶︎Part 3: The Rare Rosewoods Shining in the Shadow of New Jacaranda
▶︎Part 4: Post-Rosewood
He is the greatest contributor to the development of Japan’s acoustic guitar culture!
▶︎ The Solitary 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 for their artisanal spirit, exceptional craftsmanship, and original designs born from a wealth of creativity
▶︎Vol. 3 MOSSMAN SUPER CUSTOM by Baxendale
The pinnacle of Martin guitars: the "D-50 Deluxe" adorned with the ultimate "Tree of Life" motif. Please enjoy this true work of art alongside the other three pieces on display in our store
▶︎Martin Guitars’ Pinnacle: The Ultimate “Tree of Life”
The ultimate masterpiece: Pre-War Martins and their history. Marvel at their historical value and sound that transcends the ordinary!
▶︎ A miraculous gathering of the finest pre-war Martin guitars!!
A masterpiece that boasts intense impact, originality, and a sense of 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 more
This column features eight of Martin’s iconic “Shaded Top” models—not modern reissues, but the original instruments that defined their era.
▶︎Martin Shaded Top
I want to play that phrase from that song!!
We’re here to support you!!
▶︎Acoustic Guitar: Legendary Phrases
It seems the sheer volume of pages and images sent our web team into a tailspin (wry smile), but their hard work paid off, and this feature has been very well-received. 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 natural sound of the instrument—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. "Choosing Your First Instrument" is here to help those of you feeling that way!
▶︎ Choosing Your First Instrument
▶︎Electric Guitar
▶︎Electric Bass
▶︎Acoustic Guitar
▶︎Guitar Amplifiers
▶︎Effector
▶︎Drums
▶︎How to Choose a Music Store
We’ve compiled 50 fun facts about Martin and Gibson acoustic guitars!
▶︎50 Anecdotes About Acoustic Guitars That Will Make You Say, “Huh?!!”
Effector・Amplifiers
A Deadstock Miracle!
▶︎Ace Tone FM-2: Awakening from a 50-Year Slumber
A Dream Collaboration Comes True! That Rockman Sound in a Compact Effector!
▶︎New Effector Project: “SUSTAIN OR ”
The legendary pedal Sano first encountered: "TONE BENDER MkI"
▶︎TONE BENDER MK1
The contest returns after two years! Theme: “How to Enjoy the Effector”
▶︎2nd Modified Effector Contest
▶︎1st Customized Effector Contest
Introducing the legendary wah-wah pedal: the VOX Clyde McCoy Wah-Wah Pedal
▶︎Introducing the legendary wah-wah pedal: the VOX Clyde McCoy Wah-Wah Pedal
Every guitarist has probably thought at least once, “I want to recreate the sounds I hear on CDs and tapes!” but it’s not easy to do. Our ROCKMANN-loving staff will provide a brief overview of each model
▶︎Creating Unique Sounds with Effector
A dream collaboration comes true! That iconic Rockmann sound in a compact Effector!
▶︎ TCGAKKI New Effector Project
Starting something new brings both high expectations and a little 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
▶︎Effector
▶︎Drums
▶︎How to Choose a Music Store
Updates are sporadic, but here’s a column about compact Effector. Lately, I’ve been trying to cut back on alcohol and high-calorie foods to live a healthier lifestyle (^o^)/
Part 1: A/B Boxes, Loop Selectors, and Parallel Boxes
Part 2: Distortion Gear
Episode 3: Distortion Gear Part 2: Amps
Episode 4: Introducing Cool Gems
Episode 5: Analog Delay Special
Episode 6: Recent Musings...
Episode 7: Loop Box Edition, Again!
Episode 8: A Special Feature on Some Slightly Niche Pedals
Episode 9: Electro-Harmonix BIG MUFF π Special
Episode 10: Oga-chan's "Magic Box"
Episode 11: "Ibanez TS-808" vs. "BOSS OD-1"
A serious column that delves passionately, intensely, and deeply into the sounds of various amps, 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 Effector.
▶︎The 1st Customized Effector Contest is Here!
Bass・Drums
Structure provides support; philosophy creates resonance.
Atlansia: A utopia of sound where creation and challenge never cease.
"Video" Playing It Revealed: Energy, Presence, and Power!
▶︎Want to become the owner of a Fender “Vintage Bass”?
Through these comparisons, you’ll likely discover new aspects you’ve never noticed before! I’m posting these while learning new things every day—just doing my own thing!
▶︎Part 1: 1961 & 1992 Fender Precision Bass
I’m researching and reporting on Rickenbackers from various angles, partly for my own education. It’s a fascinating read, full of unexpected history and structural secrets
▶ Lab
"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
Ken Smith Explains the History and His Encounter with His Son Jon
▶Ken Smith and the Evolution of the Electric GuitarBass
Starting something new brings great anticipation and a touch of anxiety. "Choosing Your First Instrument" is here to help!
▶︎ Choosing Your First Instrument
▶︎Electric Guitar
▶︎Electric GuitarBass
▶︎Acoustic Guitar
▶︎Guitar Amplifiers
▶︎Effector
▶︎Drums
▶︎How to Choose a Music Store
Introducing the highly acclaimed Japanese-made Bass that has stood the test of time!
▶︎Part One
▶︎Part 2
▶︎Part 3
Wind Instruments, Traditional Japanese Instruments, String Instruments
Introducing a treasured instrument sleeping deep within TCGAKKI!?
In this first installment, we’ll give you an in-depth look at the “Varitone” electric saxophone system manufactured by H.&A. Selmer Inc. (commonly known as “Amesel”) in 1965!!
▶︎Part 1: SELMER VALITONE
▶︎Part 2: Searching for Selmer Valitone Masters
Corno da caccia, cimbasso, basset horn, oboe musette, contrabass flute, and more.
We buy any special wind instrument for cash
▶︎Please sell us your rarely used specialty wind instruments!
When you buy a used wind instrument, isn’t it sometimes hard to play because it’s been shaped to the previous owner’s playing style?
▶ ︎Are used wind instruments hard to play because they have a “personality”?
When we ask customers about their daily maintenance routines, fewer than half are doing it correctly. In fact, far more people than expected were using incorrect methods based on their own habits, so we’ve urgently created this page.
▶︎Part 1 - Saxophone -
▶︎Part 2 - Clarinet -
▶︎Part 3 - Flute
This page is our loud and clear appeal: “Please sell your brass instruments to us—and keep selling them!” Why is selling to our store the best deal? It’s obvious 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
What kind of adjustments are made to the instruments you purchase?
We’ll give you a straight answer!!
▶︎Wind Instruments
When you decide you want to try playing an instrument, who do you turn to for advice?
▶︎Part 1: Choosing an Instrument Amidst All the Anxiety
▶︎Part 2: The String Instrument Industry’s Unwritten Rules & Price Secrets
▶︎Part 3: In Search of the Ideal Tone…
Explanation of Traditional Japanese Musical Instruments. Played in the unique traditional performances "Gagaku" and "Kabuki."
▶ ︎The Basics of Japanese Musical Instruments
We’ve compiled some handy tips to help beginners fall even more in love with string instruments.
▶︎20 Interesting Facts About String Instruments
General / All Genres
An epic romance depicting a musician’s inner struggles!
▶︎ Takashi’s Money Worries
▶︎The "Cute Girl" Edition
Behind-the-scenes stories of the captivating image ads featuring "vintage instruments" that appeared in *Player* magazine. We present a year’s worth of commentary on these ads—which (apparently) influenced various industries—along with behind-the-scenes stories from the shoots. Packed with comedic moments, including nearly falling off a cliff, using a real fighter jet, and jamming a guitar through someone’s head on the beach
▶︎ Behind the Scenes of Magazine Ad Shoots
We donated guitars as part of our disaster relief efforts.
We hope that even if only in a small way, we were able to lend a hand to everyone working toward reconstruction.
▶︎Let’s Resonate Together: The Circle of Support
As a used instrument shop that polishes instruments more than anyone else, we’re going to show you just how much we care about our cleaning cloths!
▶︎They Look the Same, but They’re So Different! Must-Know Maintenance Tips
It all started with the idea, “Let’s create our own theme song to raise funds for disaster victims!”—a CD production project involving the entire staff. Each staff member took on roles ranging from songwriting and composition to performance and recording, resulting in a wild and chaotic story leading up to the CD’s completion. 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 just launched an ultra-rare, MIL-spec (U.S. military standard) rugged [Strap Ring] at a special cash-only price, available in-store only!!
▶︎ TCGAKKI Original Strap Ring
All the mistakes we made back in the days when we ran numerous ads in Player magazine
▶︎ We ran ads like this 💦
With a stock of about 3,000 used instruments made from various types of wood, it feels just like a botanical museum where materials from different eras have gathered from all over the world.
▶︎Tree-Planting Experience Notes: What Eco-Friendly Actions Can I Take Myself?
Ukulele, Bluegrass, and More
Premium and rare items available only to winners. Introducing other rare Kamaka ukuleles!
▶︎Kamaka Ukulele Custom Shop Collection
To support your recording projects, we’re upgrading our microphones and offering high-value buybacks for your unwanted ones!
▶︎ We Buy Microphones!
Titled "TCGAKKI's Way to Enjoy Bluegrass," we introduce mandolins and banjos related to bluegrass music!
▶︎ TCGAKKI's Guide to Enjoying Bluegrass
Introducing the appeal of Martin ukuleles, along with specifications and model comparisons. With the rise of genius ukulele player Jake Shimabukuro, there are signs of a resurgence in popularity.
▶︎ The Appeal of Martin Ukuleles and Model Comparisons