WeTCGAKKIWe propose a new way to enjoy used musical instruments. Rather than simply servicing and selling, we leverage the inherent qualities of the materials while adding entirely new concepts, offering them as innovative "refine products."

High-quality, well-made Japanese electric guitars manufactured by Fujigen, Matsumoku, and others in the 1970s and 80s.BassThe guitar is thoroughly refreshed (including repairs and repainting), and the pickups, electronics, and other carefully selected hardware are replaced. It is then set up to be usable in professional settings.

 

My feelings of respect for the craftsmen and people involved at that timeTCGAKKIIncorporating the appeal of tuning by our proud repair department "TC-TUNE," we have launched a new project called "ReFINE."

Leveraging the inherent qualities of the materials and adding new value.
“Re-FINE” Project


　TCGAKKIFor over 30 years, as a specialty store for used musical instruments, we have handled a large number of instruments, ranging from valuable vintage items to reasonably priced used items, totaling over 10,000 items per year.

Of particular note are the domestically produced products, which, thanks to the high manufacturing quality that shines through the skilled craftsmanship of experienced artisans, have now established themselves in the world-renowned MIJ (Made in Japan) category, earning high praise and popularity.

And to spread the appeal of Japanese vintage to younger generations who are still unaware of that world, and to veteran collectors who know vintage in real time,TCGAKKIWe hope you'll enjoy it, thanks to our unique know-how and playful approach.

 

Skilled professional technique
TC Original Instrument Series,
The TACHIKOMA GT and ATD-GT are among the products for which the long-established TS factory has generously incorporated its expert woodworking and painting techniques.

Unique and eye-catching colors unlike any other
A visually enhanced model featuring striking and distinctive colors.

High-quality materials
Amid concerns about declining wood quality due to recent timber regulations, the luxurious wood materials used in domestically produced instruments of that era are particularly appealing.

Respect for Japanese vintage
We respect the high level of woodworking techniques employed by domestic factories such as Fujigen and Matsumoku, which have gained high recognition and popularity among overseas enthusiasts, and aim to pass them on to the present day.

Professional setup
The setup isTCGAKKIDesigned by TANAKA, a master of settings and renowned in the company, this system achieves high player-oriented playability suitable for professional use.

BassOur commitment to model selection
BassThe domestic models selected for this purpose are primarily those that show significant signs of use, have low originality, and do not meet the demands of so-called collectors.TCGAKKI(We do not want to lose valuable vintage items.)

Usable Vintage
We aimed to create an attractive product that would satisfy even those who previously avoided secondhand items, by dispelling the common perception that "used items are dirty" and "they're not easy to use."

TC-TUNE presents its "Refine Product" lineup.

Greco (TC-TUNE)
1980 EG800PR ReFINE

PU cartridge replacement systemRecruit!!
Greco (TC-TUNE) 1980 EG800PR ReFINE

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We envisioned a guitar that allows you to enjoy a variety of sounds by changing pickup cartridges, with several variations available (3 humbuckers, 3 single-coils, P90x3, etc.). Socket wiring to facilitate cartridge changes can also be ordered.
Pulling up the rear volume knob activates the center pickup (out of phase), creating a gimmick that produces a phase-out sound with the rear pickup. The top has been refinished in a subdued color to match the wooden pickup mounts.

Refinement points
- A PU cartridge carved from black persimmon wood is recessed and mounted.
• Top refinish (urethane)
- Center pickup ON/OFF switch (Pull up the rear volume knob to reverse the phase of the center pickup)
(PU is ON)
Volume knob Down position: Pickup selection [Front/Front & Rear/Rear]
VOL knob Up position: PU switching [Front/Front & Center & Rear (Phase)
Out)/Center & Rear (Phase Out)]
- Upgraded electrical system, CTS potentiometers, oil capacitor, Switchcraft
JackRecruit


Specifications
BODY：Solid Maple 2pcs Top /Mahogany Back
NECK: Mahogany 1pc
FINGERBOARD: Striped Ebony22F
Pickups: Original U-2000 x3
BRIDGE: Original
TUNERS: Waffle Back type
SCALE: 628mm
WEIGHT: 4.92kg
CASE: "hundred" Softcase

The actual machine before modification

It is carved from a thick plank of black persimmon wood.

The PU cartridge section is precisely the body
It's been placed at the top.

This is an image showing the different pickup variations.

This is an image showing the different pickup variations.

Fender Japan (TC-TUNE)
1986-1987 ST57-55 ReFINE

This is a high-performance machine that can be used for a variety of purposes!!
Fender Japan (TC-TUNE) 1986-1987 ST57-55 ReFINE

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Inspired by high-end studio guitars, this guitar features a psychedelic, high-visual finish on the body and is equipped with new technology Lace Alumitone pickups. The fretboard radius has been made gentler and the guitar has been refretted with medium-high frets. It has a Wilkinson VG300 bridge and a rear direct switch, adhering strictly to the rules of high-end guitars. The goal was to create a true high-end guitar based on a Japanese-made instrument.
Despite its flashy appearance, it boasts a wide, well-balanced sound and has been refined for ease of use.

Refinement points
A PU cartridge carved from black persimmon wood is recessed and mounted.
Special psychedelic finish
A neck grip with a pleasant, matte finish.
Rear humbucking modification
The pickups are wide-range, low-noise Lace Alumitone pickups.
It features both a single-coil pickup and a deathbucker pickup that delivers a loud sound.
Electrical system upgrade, TAP switch (rear)
Replaced with Gotoh tuners.

Specifications
BODY: Alder
NECK: Maple 1pc 21F
PU: Lace Alumitone Single-Coil x2, Lace Alumitone Deathbucker x1
BRIDGE: Wilkinson VG300 Chrome
TUNERS: Gotoh SD91 Nickel
SCALE: 648mm
WEIGHT: 3.20kg
CASE: "hundred" Softcase

The actual machine before modification

Through an elaborate painting process (confidential!), a mysteriously colored finish is achieved.

TC-TUNE's attention to detail extends even to soldering!

Fender Japan (TC-TUNE)
1989 PB75-70 ReFINE

This is a stylish Precision Bass in the style of Mary Kay!!
Fender Japan (TC-TUNE) 1989 PB75-70 ReFINE

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This PB model has been refined with a blonde finish and gold hardware in the style of Mary Kay from the 1950s. It's a unique instrument with an old-school feel that you won't find anywhere else! The pickups are Lindy Fralin, known for their vintage sound with a modern twist and easy-to-use tone.RecruitAnd, combined with the electrical system upgrades, it's a "usable" old-school style.BassIt's finished.

Refinement points
Refinished with lacquer blonde.
Replaced with gold hardware
Lindy Fralin's pickup
Electrical system upgrade

Specifications
BODY: Swe
NECK: Maple 1pc 20F
Pickup: Lindy Fralin P-Bass
BRIDGE: Vintage-type Gold
TUNERS: Gotoh Bold
SCALE: 864mm
WEIGHT: 3.98kg
CASE
"hundred" Softcase

The actual machine before modification

Precise and beautifully finished routing work

The custom pickguard is also perfectly made.
fit!

The cavity at the back is a remnant of the original unit.

Fender Japan (TC-TUNE)
1987 ST57-140 “EXTRAD” ReFINE

Got a problem with that, manly one-humbucker setup!!
Fender Japan (TC-TUNE) 1987 ST57-140 “EXTRAD” ReFINE

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This guitar is inspired by classic 80s hard rock. It has a manly single humbucker! (lol) BassFor the instrument, I chose the Extra Stratocaster from Fender Japan, which was the top-of-the-line Japanese-made guitar at the time. The flame maple neck is amazing! I'm embarrassed to reveal my age, but when I started playing electric guitar in the late 70s as a teenager, I was fortunate enough to have a Greco made by Fujigen Gakki, and I have a lot of fond memories of it, so I absolutely wanted to make a guitar with Fujigen.


For the tremolo unit, I chose an early Floyd Rose FRT-3, which had a huge influence on the hard rock scene at the time. I deliberately didn't use a locking nut, opting instead for Sperzel locking tuners. A key feature is the single VooDoo humbucker pickup, which is slanted and directly mounted in the bridge position. I changed the fretboard radius to 305R to my liking and replaced the frets with jumbo frets. It's been extended to 24 frets, and I added a playful touch by scalloping only the higher positions.
I love the rich midrange, sustained tone, and responsive sound that are characteristic of an alder body.

Refinement points
24F flared, scalloped (21-24F)
Changed the fretboard radius to 305 (12")
Jumbo fret replacement, painting
Installation and processing of FRT unit
Rear humbucking modification
VooDoo pickup equipped
Electrical system upgrade
Replaced with Sperzel locking pegs.
Replaced with FCGR Tone Shift Plate (2mm)

Specifications
BODY: Alder 2pcs
NECK: Maple 1pc 24F
Pickup: VooDoo HB59's x1
BRIDGE：Floyd Rose FRT-3 Gold(Early Ver.)
TUNERS
Sperzel Trim-Lok Satin: Gold
SCALE: 648mm
WEIGHT: 3.39kg
CASE: "hundred" Softcase

The actual machine before modification

The process of routing out a cavity for a humbucker pickup.

The humbuckers are directly mounted for a special touch!

The extension of the fretboard is carefully done by hand.
It will be scalloped.

This is an image showing the different pickup variations.

FERNANDES (TC-TUNE)
E1980s BO-50 ReFINE

This is a tangible representation of the feelings I had back then when I longed for high-end products.Bass

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A 5-piece through-neck Precision Bass – this is definitely a modern high-end model.BassProbably!
I've always thought that.
I've refined it to bring my long-held dream to life.
The resonant sound of the neck-through design pairs perfectly with the ebony fretless construction—exactly the result I was aiming for.


The pickup is the classic Baritolini 8S.RecruitThanks to the carefully integrated electrical components, it delivers a rich, responsive, and modern sound.
The fretboard, which extends as far as possible to the pickups, is intentionally devoid of fret lines. This refinement reflects our desire for you to freely play beautiful and elegant sounds without being constrained by fret lines on the long fretboard.

Refinement points
Fretless ebony fingerboard
Replace with a board and extend.
Matte finish on the back of the neck
Replaced with Bartolini 8S pickups.
Electrical system upgrade
Gotoh 201B-4 Bridge
Grover Tuner

Specifications
BODY: Swe
NECK: Maple+Mahogany 5pcs: Thru-neck
FINGERBOARD: Ebony
Pickup: Bartolini 8S
BRIDGE: Gotoh 201B-4 Black
TUNERS: Grover Black
SCALE: 870mm? 34inch 864mm
WEIGHT: 3.89kg
CASE: "hundred" Softcase

The actual machine before modification

I've just removed the fretboard.

A new ebony fretless fingerboard will be attached.

Press firmly into place using a vise.

Greco (TC-TUNE)
1989 EGC-600 ReFINE "Samurai"

A guitar like a Japanese sword, cutting through rock and roll!!
Greco (TC-TUNE) 1989 EGC-600 ReFINE 'Samurai'

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A black custom with a rock imageBassThis guitar has been refined with a heavy, sophisticated feel thanks to custom-made gold-colored engraved aluminum parts that add a touch of Japanese flair. The matte neck finish makes it very comfortable to play! This is one of two models that come in a pair: gold (Samurai) and silver (Ninja).

Refinement points
Strip the paint from the back of the neck and apply a matte finish.
BW&R Custom Aluminum Engraved Pickguard (Samurai)
BW&R Custom Aluminum Engraved PU Ring
BW&R Custom Aluminum Engraved Rod Cover (Samurai)
Pickup and electrical system upgrade, oil capacitorRecruit

Specifications
BODY: Solid Maple Top / Mahogany Back: NECK
Mahogany LAC Joint：FINGERBOARD：Rosewood 22F
Pickups: Original Screamin' x2
BRIDGE: Original
TUNERS: Original Rotomatic
SCALE: 628mm
WEIGHT: 4.55kg
CASE: "hundred" Softcase

The actual machine before modification

The back of the neck has a matte natural finish.

Orville by Gibson (TC-TUNE)
1992 Les Paul Standard Refined

This is a refinement of the idea, "I want an LP in this color!"
Orville by Gibson (TC-TUNE) 1992 Les Paul Standard ReFINE

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The Orville by Gibson LPS, now highly acclaimed worldwide, has been given a lighter refinement! The eye-catching glittery surf blue top evokes the sparkling ocean and sky of the tropics. The S. Duncan Seth Lover pickups and upgraded electronics combine to produce a high-quality, flavorful humbucker sound.

Refinement points
Top refinish (Surf Blue Sparkle)
Replaced with Seymour Duncan SH-55 Sess Rubber pickups.
Upgraded electrical components to CTS and Switchcraft products.

Specifications
BODY: Solid Maple Top / Mahogany Back
NECK: Mahogany
FINGERBOARD: Rosewood 22F
PU: Seymour Duncan SH-55n/b Seth Lover Model
BRIDGE: Original
TUNERS: Original
SCALE: 628mm
WEIGHT: 3.93kg
CASE: "hundred" Softcase

YAMAHA (TC-TUNE)
1970s SB-700 ReFINE

A unique band with a completely revamped look and sound.Bass!!
YAMAHA (TC-TUNE) 1970s SB-700 ReFINE

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Yamaha has refined its world-renowned SuperBass into a modern single-humbucker configuration. The bubinga wood pickguard, seamlessly integrated into the body, is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of experienced artisans.
Combining humbucking pickups with a simple passive circuit, it delivers a powerful, thick beat! While the look and sound are significantly different from the original, its excellent fundamental qualities are characteristic of Japanese vintage instruments.

Refinement points
Recessed pickguard made from bubinga wood
Body back cavity processing
Replaced with a matte black finish Seymour Duncan SMB-4A humbucker.
Electrical system upgrade, series/parallel selector switch, Schaller bridge.

Specifications
BODY: Alder
NECK: Maple 1pc Bolt-on 20F
PU: Seymour Duncan SMB-4A MM Alnico V
CIRCUIT Passive, 1V-1T-Series/Parallel SW
BRIDGE: Schaller 3-D4 CHROME
TUNERS: Original
SCALE: 864mm
WEIGHT: 4.05kg
CASE: "hundred" Softcase

The actual machine before modification

 

Precise routing is required to match the thickness of the plate being fitted. This is an extremely time-consuming and technically demanding task.

Bubinga wood is used for the embedded pickguard.

It's just like a large puzzle piece!

We crimp them completely using multiple vises.

Aria Pro II (TC-TUNE)
1980 LS-500 ReFINE “Ninja”

We've added a Japanese touch to our Japabin!
Aria Pro II (TC-TUNE) 1980 LS-500 ReFINE “Ninja”

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The well-worn sunburst body top has been given a sharp black makeover!! Custom-made engraved aluminum parts with a Japanese touchRecruitThis further highlights the appeal of Japanese vintage watches. This is one of two models that come in a pair: gold (samurai) and silver (ninja).

Refinement points
Top refinish (urethane black)
BW&R Custom Aluminum Engraved Pickguard (Ninja)
BW&R Custom Aluminum Engraved PU Ring
BW&R Custom Aluminum Engraved Rod Cover (Shinobi)
Pickup and electrical system upgrade, oil capacitorRecruit
Replacement of pegs, knobs, and other parts.

Specifications
BODY: Solid Maple Top / Mahogany Back
NECK: Maple
FINGERBOARD: Rosewood 22F
Pickups: Gotoh Humbucker x2
BRIDGE: Original
TUNERS: Gotoh
SCALE: 628mm
WEIGHT: 4.25kg
CASE: "hundred" Softcase

The actual machine before modification

The top will be refinished in a sharp black color.

summary

So, what did you think of these 10 ReFINE products?

This timeTCGAKKIThe staff said, "This kind of guitar..."Bass"Wouldn't it be great if we had this!" - TCTUNEIt was achieved.

Next time, as the second installment, we are currently working on refining vintage Gibson and Fender guitars.I'm currently plotting—or rather, formulating—some wicked schemes (while worrying about the president's reaction...).

TCGAKKISo, we also want to help make your various dreams come true. (Even small parts replacements...)From simple modifications to major overhauls, please feel free to contact us. Our staff, who are true music lovers, will assist you.We will provide you with attentive and personalized assistance. All of our staff love seeing our customers smile!

Well then, see you again.

TCGAKKIFor repair consultations, please click here.

This article was written by: Soichiro Tanaka (TC-TUNE Chief Repairman)

Biography:During my university years, I became interested in the mechanics and structure of musical instruments, and I put my studies aside to immerse myself in tinkering with them. At the same time, I was in charge of PA (sound engineering) in a band club, where I learned the importance of creating the overall sound of the band, not just individual instruments.
After graduating from university, I enrolled in the ESP Guitar Craft Academy. After graduation, I worked at The Used Musical Instruments Shop (currentlyTCGAKKI) as the repair personRecruitWith the cooperation and support of many people, and through repeated trial and error, we launched the current TC-TUNE from scratch.

Qualifications and experience:13 years of experience as a repair technician

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ReFine by TC-TUNE