Packed with useful information about musical instruments!
TCGAKKIMagazine
It's embarrassing to be caught not knowing something.
You don't want to feel embarrassed.
Have you ever felt embarrassed during conversations 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 uncommon 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 you don't belong.
For you, the TCGAKKI Group staff, who love instruments, have prepared the [TCGAKKI Magazine], compiled with 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 one-of-a-kind, offer deep insights only possible from a shop that has owned those very instruments.
Your music life will undoubtedly become richer from the day you read it!
Don't miss this chance to learn while enjoying!
You're sure to find articles perfect for you!
Impress your bandmates and music friends in conversation!
Check it out now!
- Latest Articles -
The Unstoppable Innovation of the Man Who Left Fender
▶︎Leo Fender and the Birth of MUSIC MAN
Is it just a guitar for distortion? Absolutely not!
▶︎Breaking the Mold: B.C. Rich
A Journey Through the History of Tuners with Famous Brands
Focusing on electric guitar tuners, we'll explore their history.
Tokyo's Shin-Okubo New Landmark:
~D-45 Forest~
The Legend Still Told Today "YAMAHA L Four Heavenly Kings"
The Charm of Antique Parlor Guitars
~Sounds from the 19th Century~
A Deadstock Miracle!
Ace Tone FM-2 Awakens from a 50-Year Slumber
~Always by the musician's side~
The History of the J-50, "The Trusted Companion"
"The Workhorse"
~The History of the Gibson J-45~
Electric Guitar
Why did Aria Pro II give birth to PE?
Tracing the untold history of Japanese vintage
We'll unravel the history of electric guitar pickups and the pickup brands.
Uncovered a nearly unused 1961 Fender Stratocaster!
▶︎Real Closet Classic
Our No.1 Popular Event: "Modified Guitar Contest"
▶︎5th Modified Guitar Contest 2024
▶︎4th Modified Guitar Contest 2022
▶︎3rd Modified Guitar Contest 2020
▶︎2nd Modified Guitar Contest 2018
▶︎1st Modified Guitar Contest 2014
Spotlight on Fender Japan, a standout favorite among Japan Vintage guitars
▶︎FENDER JAPAN Dream Top-of-the-Line Models
▶︎Fender Japan JV Models
▶︎Fender Japan EXTRAD Models
▶︎Fender Japan Custom Edition
The History of Old Guitars explains models produced by era, with disassembly guides illustrating era-specific features and differences alongside photos.
▶︎Chapter 1: FENDER STRATOCASTER
▶︎Chapter 2: Gibson LES PAUL
Inheriting Leo's DNA!? The stubborn craftsman's dedication.
▶︎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
This is 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 rich, lustrous tone with a dry edge!!
▶︎The ES-175, a full-hollow body beloved by masters
What is GRECO's History & GO Series?
▶︎GRECO's History & Detailed Feature
When it comes to your instrument and its sound, you probably have at least some dissatisfaction or issues.Since buying a new one isn't easy, let's tweak the small parts and customize it into your ideal guitar!
▶︎▶︎Maintenance Beginner's Guide
▶︎ Bass Bass Ranking! Down Tuning Lecture!
▶︎ Synchronized Tremolo Bridge!! Floating Adjustment Lecture!! Edition
Being the same as everyone else is boring!TCGAKKIOriginal Control Knob Customization
▶︎Knobs that light up according to the selector switch position
TCGAKKI We carefully purchase "Japan Vintage" as a beloved brand Japan takes pride in.
▶︎ Domestic Guitars "Japan Vintage" We Buy!!
A miraculous guitar— only 98 exist worldwide, with just 1.26 in 100 million people fortunate enough to own one: the 1958 Gibson FLYING V.
▶︎Only 98 exist 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! We create our store's original "Instrument Health Check Report". Simple fixes can be done on the spot!
▶︎Instrument Health Check
What kind of adjustments are made to the instruments you purchase?
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 the special, slightly complicated replacement technique 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 techniques honed through windsurf board manufacturing, it achieves an exceptionally high level of craftsmanship and radiates a unique, one-of-a-kind character.
▶︎ NOBUWORKS: The supreme guitar brand nurtured by the sea
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 Mania!
▶︎Volume 1: The Story of Guitar Strings
Comparisons will surely reveal new discoveries in previously unseen areas! I'm learning daily while posting my own personal, self-indulgent takes!
▶︎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 Pioneered Rock's Dawn
Staff member Karibe's completely subjective and biased picks spotlighting one "intriguing" item
▶︎First Installment: "heerby" – Known Only to the In-the-Know? Japan Vintage
▶︎Second Installment: "Fresher" – A Surprising Guitar with Built-in Effects
▶︎Third Installment: "Ibanez" – Born in Japan! Overseas Artist Models!
▶︎Fourth Installment :KAWAI "Moonsault" – Captivated by the Romance of Space
▶︎ Fifth Installment: Sting Ray "100th Anniversary" NAMM Anniversary Model!!
▶︎Special 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 points!!
▶︎Transcending the replica's boundaries, its spirit is recreated with a bombastic sound right here!
B,W&R has done it again!!
Custom Engraved Aluminum Pickguard featuring meticulous hand-carved engraving on corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy!
Exclusively available at TCGAKKI!!
▶︎The ultra-cool pickguard from B,W&R is here!
At the time, a man named "Forbis" living in Columbia, Missouri, USA...
▶︎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 you need to know, including some surprising tidbits!
▶︎Learn with Oda♪ Fender Trivia
: A legendary instrument with a design and name you'll never forget, even once seen, in the history of domestic original guitars ▶︎The passion entrusted to Moon Sault
Since Gretsch already held the trademark for "Broadkaster" drums, Fender was forced to change the name in a short period of time..
▶︎1951 Fender Nocaster “PROTO”
Acoustic Guitar
History of Gibson Dove
▶︎ The History of the DOVE, with its Magnificent Square Shoulder
It all began when Len Ferguson's son happened upon 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 masterful craftsmanship throughout
▶︎ MOSSMAN SUPER CUSTOM by Baxendale
Ultra-rare! Unraveling the history and features from a first-year Hummingbird model
▶︎Early '60s HUMMINGBIRD Gallery
Introducing Japan's world-renowned "YAMAHA" acoustic guitars
▶︎YAMAHA LEGEND HISTORY
World's first reference book on pre-war to 1960s Gibson SJ-200 based on actual measurements
▶︎KING OF THE FLAT-TOPS
A luthier who seems to converse with the guitar rather than merely crafting it is truly rare.
▶︎The Pursuit of Metaphysical Techniques and Philosophy
A thorough dissection of the history of Japanese-made acoustic guitars!
▶︎Part 1: YAMAHA "Original Guitars Created by Pioneers"
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 the 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 truly artistic masterpiece alongside the other three pieces displayed in our store.
▶︎Martin Guitar's Pinnacle: The Ultimate "Tree of Life"
The supreme masterpiece, the Pre-War Martin and its history. Marvel at its historical value and sound from another dimension!
▶︎The supreme masterpiece, the Pre-War Martin, gathered together in a miraculous collection!
A masterpiece boasting intense impact, originality, and a sense of 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
Martin's renowned 【Shaded Top】—and not just a modern reissue, but eight original models representing their era—featured in this column.
▶︎Martin Shaded Top
I want to play that song's phrase!!
We want to support you!!
▶︎Acoustic Guitar: Phrases Passed Down Through the Ages
The sheer volume of pages and images seems to have plunged the web manager into the depths of despair (wry smile), but the 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 simply amplifies the raw sound... simple in concept, yet surprisingly tricky to achieve. I'm working hard on this, 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
I've squeezed out 50 little stories about acoustic guitars—Martin and Gibson!
▶︎Acoustic Guitars: 50 Little Stories That'll Make You Say "Huh?!!"
Effector・Amps
Dream collaboration realized! That Rockman 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 the Effector"
▶︎2nd Modified Effector Contest
▶︎1st Modified Effector Contest
Introducing the Legendary Wah Pedal: VOX Clyde McCoy Wah-Wah Pedal
▶︎Legendary Wah Pedal: VOX Clyde McCoy Wah-Wah Pedal
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. For those feeling this way, 'Choosing Your First Instrument' is here to help!
▶︎Choosing Your First Instrument
▶︎Effector
▶︎How to Choose a Music Store
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 a healthier life (^o^)/
Episode 1: A/B Box, Loop Selector, Parabox Edition
Episode 2: Distortion Effects Edition
Episode 3: Distortion Effects Part 2 Amplifier Edition
Episode 4: Introducing Cool Masterpieces Edition
Episode 5: Analog Delay Special Feature
Episode 6: Recent Musings...
Episode 7: Loop Box Edition Revisited!
Episode 8: A Slightly Core Pedal Effector Special Edition
Episode 9: Electro-Harmonix BIG MUFF π Special Edition
Episode 10: Oga-chan's "Magic Little Box" Edition
Episode 11: "Ibanez TS-808" vs "BOSS OD-1" Edition
A serious column passionately, intensely, and deeply exploring the sounds of various amps like Marshall, Boogie, and Fender. Must-see!
▶︎Part 1! Marshall JCM800
▶︎Part 2! Marshall JCM900
▶︎Part 3! Fender Amp.
▶︎Part 4! Mesa/Boogie
▶︎Part 5! 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
Structure supports, philosophy resonates.
Atlansia, the ideal realm of sound that perpetually pursues creation and challenge.
"Video" Played and Discovered: 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 posting daily while learning myself, completely self-indulgent!
▶︎First Installment: Fender Precision Bass '61 & '92
I'm researching and reporting on RICKENBACKER from various angles, partly for my own studies. It's a compelling read with unexpected history and structural secrets.
▶Lab
Ludwig—a brand revered by countless drummers and beloved by star players. Let's delve into this titan of the drum world.
▶︎Ludwig Edition
▶︎Ludwig Special Edition
▶︎Ludwig Emergency Interview
▶︎Ludwig Revived Vintage Sound
Historical Explanation from Ken Smith and Meeting 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 renowned Japanese-made Bass that raced through the era!
▶︎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, manufactured by H.&A. Selmer Inc. (commonly known as American Selmer) and introduced in 1965!!
▶︎Part 1 SELMER VALITONE
▶︎Part 2 SELMER VALITONE Seeking a Master
Corno da caccia, bassoon. 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 get hard to play because it's picked up the previous owner's habits???
▶︎Used wind instruments are hard to play because they have habits?!
When we ask customers about their daily maintenance routines, fewer than half are doing it correctly. In fact, far more 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!" Please do!! This page loudly proclaims that appeal. Why is selling to our shop 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 are made to the instruments you purchase?
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 Pursuit 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 helpful tips for beginners to help you 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, centered around "vintage instruments." We present a year's worth of commentary on these ads (which apparently influenced various fields) and the behind-the-scenes stories surrounding their 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.
▶︎Magazine Ads: Behind the Scenes of the Shoot
As part of our disaster relief efforts, we donated guitars.
We sincerely hope this small contribution can support those working toward recovery.
▶︎ Let's Resonate Together: Circle of Support
As a used instrument specialist who 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! Care products you'll be glad you know about
A CD production story involving the entire staff, started with the goal of donating to those suffering from disasters: "Let's make our own theme song!" Each staff member handled everything from lyrics, composition, performance, recording, and more, resulting in a chaotic story leading up to the CD's completion. You can even watch the making-of video now!
▶︎TCGAKKIThis page introduces the process of the entire staff creating the store's theme song together
MIL-Spec Compliant Ultra-Tough Ultra-Rare [Strap Ring] Now Available in-Store Only at Special Cash Price!!
▶︎ TCGAKKIOriginal Strap Ring
Back in the days when Player magazine ran tons of ads, we ended up with all sorts of...
▶︎We ran ads like this💦
With around 3,000 used instruments gathering various types of wood, it feels like a botanical collection gathering materials of different ages from around the world.
▶︎Tree Planting Experience Notes: What Eco Actions Can I Do Myself?
Ukulele, Bluegrass, and Other Instruments
Premium rare items available only to winners. Discover other rare Kamaka ukuleles!
▶︎Kamaka Ukulele Custom Shop Collection
We're upgrading microphones and offering high-value buybacks for unwanted mics 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 revival.
▶︎Martin Ukulele Appeal and Model Comparison
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