Packed with useful information about musical instruments!
TCGAKKI Magazine
It's embarrassing to be caught not knowing something.
You don't want to feel embarrassed.
Have you ever felt embarrassed during a conversation about instruments or music because of a small knowledge gap?
On social media these days, it's commonplace to see people trying to outdo each other by flaunting their knowledge amidst a sea of information. It's not unusual to get called out for a minor mistake or be criticized for what you don't know. What's more, this information is often unreliable, lacking proper sources.
I totally get that feeling.
Information is instantly searchable, but you can't even be sure if what you find is correct. In the end, you become afraid to speak up at all...
It's frustrating, isn't it? You just want to talk about your beloved instrument, but feeling insecure about your knowledge makes you feel like an outsider.
For you, the TCGAKKI Group staff, who love instruments, have compiled the TCGAKKI Magazine using real experience and solid knowledge!Packed with real, useful information for all instrument fans, pro or amateur!
This "TCGAKKI Magazine" covers a wide range of topics: beginner-friendly HOWTO articles, the history of legendary instruments, noteworthy guitars, wood trends, and more. Created based on our staff's hands-on experience with the instruments themselves and reliable information, it's exceptionally trustworthy.
Especially our guitar feature articles, which delve into instruments that have made history or are truly one-of-a-kind, offer deep insights only possible from a shop that has owned those very instruments.
Your music life is guaranteed to become richer from the very day you read it!
Don't miss this chance to learn and enjoy!
You're sure to find articles perfect for you!
Impress your bandmates and music friends in conversation!
Check it out now!
- Latest Articles -
Is it just about distorted guitar? Absolutely not!
▶︎Breaking Preconceptions B.C.Rich
A Journey Through Tuner History with Famous Brands
Focusing on electric guitar tuners, we explore their history.
: Tokyo's New Landmark in Shin-Okubo ~D-45 Forest~
: The Legend Still Told Today "YAMAHA L Four Heavenly Kings"
The Charm of Antique Parlor Guitars
~Sounds from the 19th Century~
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The Miracle of Deadstock!
Ace Tone FM-2 Awakens from a 50-Year Slumber
~Always by the musician's side~
The History of the "Good Partner" J-50
"The Workhorse"
〜The History of the Gibson J-45〜
Electric Guitar
Unraveling the History of Electric Guitar Pickups and Pickup Brands
Since Gretsch already held the trademark for "Broadkaster" for drums, Fender was forced to change the name within a short period...
▶︎1951 Fender Nocaster "PROTO"
Uncovered a nearly unused 1961 Fender Stratocaster!
▶︎Real Closet Classic
Our No.1 Popular Project"Modified Guitar Contest"
▶︎5th Modified Guitar Contest 2024
▶︎4th Modified Guitar Contest 2022
▶︎3rd Custom Guitar Contest 2020
▶︎2nd Custom Guitar Contest 2018
▶︎1st Custom Guitar Contest 2014
Highlighting Fender Japan, which stands out as particularly popular among Japan Vintage guitars
▶︎FENDER JAPAN Dream Top-Tier Models
▶︎Fender Japan JV Models
▶︎Fender Japan EXTRAD Models
▶︎Fender Japan Custom Edition
In the history of vintage guitars, models produced by era are explained, along with disassembly guides illustrating era-specific features and differences through photographs.
▶︎Chapter 1: FENDER STRATOCASTER
▶︎Chapter 2: Gibson LES PAUL
Inheriting Leo's genes!? The stubborn craftsman's obsession.
▶︎About T.S factory
Introducing our original instrument series, "packed with playfulness"
▶︎ TCGAKKI and Ghost in the Shell S.A.C. – A miraculous collaboration!
▶︎Original Instrument Series Part 2: Cocoa Cigarette Electric Guitar
▶︎Original Instrument Series Part 3: ATD-GT (Fighter Jet)
▶︎ButStill,the Galette Guitar
▶︎SAN’O’FACE
A new endeavor to embody the player's dreams and free concepts.
▶︎ReFINE Project
The legendary ES-175, a super long-selling masterpiece. Let's explore the charm of the "Ichinanago"—its dry yet rich, lustrous tone!!
▶︎The ES-175, a full-hollow body beloved by masters
What is GRECO's History & GO Series?
▶︎GRECO's History and Detailed Feature
Most players have at least some dissatisfaction or issues with their instrument's sound. Since replacing it isn't easy, let's tweak the small parts to customize your guitar to your liking!
▶︎Pickup Replacement Beginner's Guide
▶︎Basic Maintenance Guide
▶︎Deep Bass Ranking! Down Tuning Lesson!
▶︎Synchronized Tremolo Bridge!! Floating Adjustment Lesson!! Edition
Being the same as everyone else is boring!TCGAKKIOriginal Control Knob Customization
▶︎A knob that lights up according to the selector switch position
TCGAKKI proudly buys Japan Vintage as a beloved brand Japan cherishes
▶︎Domestic guitars "Japan Vintage" - We buy them!!
A miraculous guitar, with only 98 made worldwide. The lucky few who own one represent just 1 in 100 million people globally. Gibson 1958 FLYING V
▶︎Only 98 made worldwide! 1958 Gibson FLYING V
Introducing the ultimate masterpiece, renowned for its artisan spirit, exceptional craftsmanship, and original design born from rich 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 pro repairmen diagnose and check every potential issue!
Luxury-grade service! We create our store's original "Instrument Health Check Report". Simple fixes can be done on the spot!
▶︎Instrument Health Check
What adjustments have been made to the instrument you're purchasing?
We'll give you a straight answer!!
▶︎Electric Guitar Edition
We explain string replacement and adjustment methods, which surprisingly get asked about often in-store. We break down special, slightly complicated replacement techniques in a way beginners can understand.
▶︎I'd like to write about various things concerning how to string a guitar
From Zaimokuza Beach in Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, comes the new guitar brand "NOBUWORKS". Inspired by the vast ocean and utilizing windsurf board manufacturing techniques, it achieves an exceptionally high level of craftsmanship and radiates a unique personality.
▶︎ The supreme guitar brand nurtured by the sea: NOBUWORKS
First, we provide fascinating explanations about guitar strings from various perspectives, covering everything from gauge and tension to stringing techniques and maintenance. Aim to become a Strings Maniac!
▶︎Volume 1: The Story of Guitar Strings
Comparisons will reveal new aspects you never noticed before! I'm learning daily and posting whatever I feel like!
▶︎First Installment: Fender Precision Bass (1961 & 1992)
▶︎Second Installment: Gibson Les Paul Gold Top (1956 & 2000)
Starting something new brings great expectations and a little anxiety. For those feeling this way, 'Choosing Your First Instrument' is here to help!
▶︎Choosing Your First Instrument
▶︎Electric Guitar
▶︎ElectricBass
▶︎Acoustic Guitar
▶︎Guitar Amp
▶︎Effector
▶︎Drums
▶︎How to Choose a Music Store
A beginner-friendly rock lecture featuring YouTube and fun artist anecdotes!
▶︎The Great Eccentrics Who Shaped Rock's Dawn
Staff member Karibe's completely subjective and biased picks spotlighting one "intriguing" piece
▶︎First Installment: "heerby" – Known only to those in the know? Japan Vintage
▶︎Second Installment: "Fresher" – A surprising guitar with built-in effects
▶︎Third Installment: "Ibanez" – Made in Japan! Overseas Artist Models!
▶︎Fourth Installment KAWAI "Moonsault" Captivated by the Romance of Space
▶︎Fifth Installment Sting Ray "100th Anniversary" NAMM Anniversary Model!!
▶︎Extra Edition "TC GAKKI × SPIN GEAR × YOYOJAM" Create Your Original Yo-Yo!!
▶︎Sixth Installment Atlantica
A monster replica recreated with astonishing attention to detail. Thoroughly verified down to the finest point!!
▶︎Transcending the replica's limits, its spirit is recreated with a bombastic sound right here!
B, W&R has done it again!!
Custom Engraved Aluminum Pickguard featuring meticulous hand-crafted engraving on corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy!
Available exclusively at TCGAKKI!!
▶︎ The ultra-cool pickguard from B, W&R is here!
A man named "Forbis" who lived in Columbia, Missouri, USA at the time...
▶︎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 from basic knowledge to fun facts 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 among Japan's original guitars
▶︎The Passion Behind the Moon Sault
Since Gretsch already held the trademark "Broadkaster" for drums, Fender was forced to change the name within a short period...
▶︎1951 Fender Nocaster "PROTO"
Acoustic Guitar
History of Gibson Dove
It all started when Ren Ferguson's son happened to find an article we had previously produced and sent us a message.
▶︎Gibson's former master luthier "Ren Ferguson"
Peter Fonda's guitar, famous from Easy Rider and Outlaw Blues, has arrived!
▶︎Peter Fonda's 1944 Martin D-18
The only one in the world, 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' Ovation has pursued!
▶︎The Journey of Ovation Adamas
Handcrafted guitars showcasing Warner Bros.' vision and master craftsmanship throughout
▶︎ MOSSMAN SUPER CUSTOM by Baxendale
Ultra-Rare! Unraveling the History and Features from the First Year of Hummingbird Production
▶︎Early '60s HUMMINGBIRD Gallery
Introducing Japan's World-Renowned "YAMAHA" Acoustic Guitars
▶︎YAMAHA LEGEND HISTORY
A Deep Dive into the History of Japanese-Made Acoustic Guitars!
▶︎Part 1: YAMAHA "Original Guitars Created by Pioneers"
We dissect the much-discussed rosewood alongside Martin Guitars, which built the history of acoustic guitars!
▶︎Part 1: Untold Secrets
▶︎Part 2: The Trending Premium Rosewood "New Jacaranda"
▶︎Part 3 :Rare Rosewoods Working Behind the Scenes of New Jacaranda
▶︎Part 4: Post-Rosewood
The greatest contributor to the development of Japan's acoustic guitar culture!
▶︎ Terry Nakamoto, the solitary guitar designer
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 artisan spirit, exceptional craftsmanship, and original designs born from rich creativity .
▶︎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 Guitar's Pinnacle: The Ultimate "Tree of Life"
The supreme masterpiece, Pre-War Martin and its history. Marvel at its historical value and sound from another dimension!
▶︎The supreme masterpiece, Pre-War Martin, gathered together in a miraculous collection!!
A masterpiece boasting intense impact, originality, and luxury! Welcome to the gorgeous world of the Gibson 100th Anniversary Model SJ-200!
▶︎Welcome to the gorgeous world of the SJ-200!
▶︎SJ-200 Custom Line and others
This column features eight Martin guitars boasting the legendary Shaded Top finish—not modern reissues, but original instruments representing their era.
▶︎Martin Shaded Top
Want to play that song's iconic phrase?!
We want to support you!!
▶︎Acoustic Guitar: Passed-Down Iconic Phrases
The sheer volume of pages and images seems to have plunged the 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
A pickup for acoustic guitars that amplifies the raw sound as-is... simple in concept, yet surprisingly tricky to pull off. I'm tackling this project partly for my own learning! Stay tuned for more!
▶︎Prologue
▶︎Chapter 1
▶︎Chapter 2
Starting something new brings great expectations and a little anxiety. For those feeling this way, 'Choosing Your First Instrument' is here to help!
▶︎Choosing Your First Instrument
▶︎Acoustic Guitar
▶︎How to Choose a Music Store
We've squeezed out 50 little stories about acoustic guitars from Martin and Gibson!
▶︎Acoustic Guitar: 50 Little Stories That'll Make You Say "Huh?!!"
Effector・Amplifiers
Dream collaboration realized! That classic Mega Man sound in a compact Effector!
▶︎New Effector Project " SUSTAINOR "
The legendary pedal Sano first encountered: "TONE BENDER MkI"
▶︎TONEBENDER MK1
Contest held for the first time in two years! Theme: "How to Enjoy Effector"
▶︎2nd Modified Effector Contest
▶︎1st Modified Effector Contest
Introducing the Legendary VOX Clyde McCoy Wah-Wah Pedal
▶︎Legendary VOX Clyde McCoy Wah-Wah Pedal
Guitarists listening to CDs or tapes often think, "I want to create that sound myself!" but it's surprisingly difficult. ROCKMANN-loving staff provide simple explanations for each model.
▶︎ Effector that creates distinctive sounds
The dream collaboration is here! That iconic ROCKMAN sound in a compact Effector!
▶︎ TCGAKKI New Effector project
Starting something new brings great expectations and a little anxiety. Our 'Choosing Your First Instrument' guide is here for you!
▶︎Choosing Your First Instrument
▶︎Effector
Updates are sporadic, but here's a column about compact Effector gear.Lately, I've been thinking about cutting back on alcohol and high-calorie foods to live healthier (^o^)/
Episode 1: A/B Boxes, Loop Selectors, and Paraboxes
Episode 2: Distortion Pedals
Episode 3: Distortion Pedals Part 2 - Amplifiers
Episode 4: Introducing Cool, Unique Gear
Episode 5: Analog Delay Special
Episode 6: Recent Musings...
Episode 7: Loop Box Revisited!
Episode 8: A Slightly Core Pedal Special
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 passionately, intensely, and deeply exploring the sounds of various amps like Marshall, Boogie, and Fender. Must-see!
▶︎First Installment!Marshall JCM800
▶︎Second Installment! Marshall JCM900
▶︎Third Installment! Fender Amp.
▶︎Fourth Installment! Mesa/Boogie
▶︎Fifth Installment! Speakers
▶︎Sixth Installment! How to Find Your Ideal Sound!
A sister project to our wildly popular "Modified Guitar Contest"! This year's theme is Effector.
▶︎First Modified Effector Contest Now Open!
Bass・Drums
"Video" Playing Revealed: Energy, Presence, Attack Power!
▶︎Want to become the owner of a Fender "VintageBass"?
Comparisons will surely reveal new discoveries in previously unseen areas! I'm learning daily while posting my own personal takes!
▶︎Part 1: Fender Precision Bass '61 & '92
I'm researching and reporting on RICKENBACKER from various angles, partly for my own learning. You'll find surprising history and structural secrets worth reading about.
▶ Laboratory
Ludwig—a brand revered by countless drummers and favored by numerous star players. Let's delve into this giant of the drum world.
▶︎Ludwig Edition
▶︎Ludwig Special Edition
▶︎Ludwig Emergency Interview
▶︎Ludwig Revives Vintage Sound
Ken Smith's Historical Explanation and Meeting with His Son Jon
▶Ken Smith and the Development of the Electric Bass
Starting something new brings great expectations and a little anxiety. For those feeling this way, 'Choosing Your First Instrument' is here to help!
▶︎Choosing Your First Instrument
▶︎Electric Guitars
▶︎ Guitar Amplifiers
▶︎Drums
▶︎How to Choose a Music Store
Introducing the esteemed domestic Bass that raced through the ages!
▶︎Part One
▶︎Part Two
▶︎Part Three
Wind Instruments・Japanese Instruments・String Instruments
Introducing the treasured instruments sleeping deep within TCGAKKI!?
For the first installment, we'll show you every detail of the Varitone electric saxophone system made by H.&A. Selmer Inc. (commonly known as American Selmer) that debuted in 1965!!
▶︎Part 1 SELMER VALITONE
▶︎Part 2 SELMER VALITONE Search for a Master
Corno da caccia, cimbasso. Basset horn, oboe d'amore, contrabass flute, and more.
We offer cash purchases for any specialty wind instrument.
▶︎Sell your specialty wind instruments that see little use!
When buying a used wind instrument, doesn't it feel awkward to play because it's been broken in by the previous owner???
▶︎Used wind instruments are awkward to play because they're broken in?!
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 their own methods that were actually wrong, so we urgently created this page.
▶︎Part 1 -SAX-
▶︎Part 2 -Clarinet-
▶︎Part 3 -Flute-
"Sell your brass instruments, sell them again!"—this page loudly proclaims. Why is selling to us the most profitable option? One glance makes it crystal clear. When selling your brass instruments, please consult us. Our high-value appraisals boast the industry's No. 1 track record.
▶︎ Cash Purchase Guide for Brass Instruments
What kind of adjustments have been made to the instrument you're purchasing?
We'll give you a straight answer!!
▶︎Wind Instruments Edition
When you feel like trying to play an instrument, who do you consult?
▶︎Part 1: Choosing an Instrument Amidst Anxiety
▶︎Part 2: The String Instrument Industry's Entanglements & Price Secrets
▶︎Part 3: In Search of the Ideal Tone...
Explanation of the Traditional Japanese Musical Instrument. Played in very unique traditional performances "GAGAKU" and "KABUKI".
▶︎The Basics of Japanese Musical Instruments
We've compiled easy-to-digest facts to help beginners fall even more in love with string instruments.
▶︎20 Fun Facts About String Instruments
General & Non-Genre
A grand romance depicting a musician's inner turmoil!
▶︎Takashi's Money-Making Struggles
▶︎The Cute Girl Story
Behind the scenes of the captivating image ads featured in "Player" magazine, focusing on vintage instruments. We present a year's worth of commentary on these ads (which apparently influenced various fields) and the untold stories surrounding their shoots. Packed with comedic moments like nearly falling off a cliff, using a real fighter jet, and impaling a guitar on one's head at the beach.
▶︎Behind the Scenes of Magazine Ad Shoots
As part of disaster relief efforts, we donated guitars.
We sincerely hope this small contribution supports those working toward recovery.
▶︎Let's Resonate Together: Circle of Support
As a used specialist 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! Useful maintenance goods you'll be glad to know about
A chaotic story of creating a CD where every staff member participated, starting with the idea, "Let's make our own theme song to donate to those suffering from disasters!" Each staff member handled everything from lyrics, composition, performance, recording, and more. You can even watch the making-of video now!
▶︎TCGAKKIThis page introduces the process of all staff members creating the shop's theme song together.
MIL-Spec (U.S. Military Standard) Compliant, Ultra-Rare [Strap Ring] Now Available in-Store Only at a Special Cash Price!!
▶︎ TCGAKKIOriginal Strap Ring
Back in the days when we ran tons of ads in Player magazine, we ended up with all sorts of things like this
▶︎We ran ads like this💦
With around 3,000 used instruments made from various woods gathered 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 Other Instruments
Premium rare items only winners could purchase. Introducing other rare Kamaka ukuleles!
▶︎Kamaka Ukulele Custom Shop Collection
We're upgrading microphones and offering high-value buybacks for unwanted ones to support your recording projects!
▶︎We Buy Microphones!
TCGAKKI's Way to Enjoy Bluegrass: Introducing Mandolins and Banjos Related to Bluegrass Music!
▶︎ TCGAKKI's Way to Enjoy Bluegrass
Introducing the appeal of Martin ukuleles, along with specs and model comparisons. Genius ukulele player Jake Shimabukuro and others are showing signs of a resurgence.
▶︎The Appeal of Martin Ukuleles and Model Comparisons
