Grand Prix

Handle Name: KAIZO Guitar Channel
Title: Pera Ako

From the front, it looks semi-acoustic, but the moment you change your viewing angle, it reveals a structure that's the complete opposite of "semi-acoustic," leaving me stunned in more ways than one.

I was amazed by how he focused on the idea of using semi-acoustic top wood meant for interior design to make an electric guitar—something that's hard to even imagine putting into practice—and then actually went ahead and did it.

The idea of attaching a neck to lumber bought at a home center reminded me of Les Paul's experimental guitar, which he built by connecting an Epiphone body to a 4x4 square timber.

Rather than the production time itself, it took considerable time to develop ideas such as "which parts to attach and how" and "what colors to use," resulting in a final piece quite different from the initial concept. Yet, upon seeing the completed work, it struck me as a piece that, while unconventional in its construction, possessed a remarkably cohesive design that evoked a sense of wonder.

Congratulations! 🥳🥳

Guitar Magazine December 2024 Issue

Alembic/Sleek Elite Award

Handle Name: Over-the-top DIY
Product Name: Spring Reverb Guitar

Modifications come in many forms and serve various purposes, but I found it truly remarkable how they pursue the utmost potential while paying proper respect to the wisdom and ingenuity of those who came before, and how they embody a spirit of inquiry into new things.

ThisMusical instrumentI was also impressed by how you don't just focus on the immediate task at hand, but seem to have your sights set on what lies beyond, offering glimpses of that exciting sense of "I wonder what will happen next." Given your vast wealth of ideas and experience, I'm very much looking forward to your next work.

Thank you very much for participating.

Arai Trade Award

Handle Name: Train Otaku NAO
Title: FUTURE Resembling the SG90

PersonallySGI do like it, but the slightly retro image matched it incredibly well. The body color and the newly builtPGThe combination was outstanding and truly eye-catching.

Moridaira Musical Instrument Award

Name: Mr. Hisashi Ishikawa
Title: Adult Moritaka Model

TCAt the Music Store3Based on a guitar purchased years agoTCWe were honored to be chosen by Mr. Gakki-san, who selected our Bill Lawrence Guitars for modification based on our connection.

It's been beautifully modified with a fresh coat of paint, a set neck, tremolo system, and more. Now that it's become a gorgeous guitar, please play "Even When I'm an Old Lady" with style!

Studio Penta Award

Handle Name: Johnny E. K.
Title: Machine Gun Guitar

I chose it based on its visual impact!

This is what customization is all about!

I'd love to see Wilko Johnson blast out a live set in heaven.

TMC/SIT Award

Handle Name: Lin's Worx
Title: Beer Crate Acoustic Guitar

Visual impact! A triumph of design, no doubt. But tracing the background—what era is this wooden beer crate from? And where exactly is Sakurai Liquor Store? The mystery only deepens.

The wood carries a vintage charm, and I take my hat off to the skill that transforms this material into a guitar.

Birdland Award

Handle Name: Yokkun【Guitar】
Title: Slowly, Slowly, Slowly... Solo Guitar? ~Solo Guitar Isn't Lonely, You Know~

The key point in the selection process was first and foremost the visual impact.

The newly added harp section and the percussion section are trulyModificationI was so overwhelmed by the feeling that I had pretty much made up my mind before even reading the explanation.(Haha)

64It's interesting how the harp section features additional string pegs, and how the pegs themselves are repurposed items.

I also like how the glider capo is casually set on the headstock.(Haha)

As the person themselves has said, they definitely give off a vibe that they're no ordinary person, andModificationWe selected it for its overflowing sense of emotion.

AKIMA&NEOS Award

Handle Name: Kumas
Title: Park in Stag Beetle

At first glance, I thought it looked cool.

Upon closer inspection, it's actually quite rough, but the idea is good. It feels closer to the Pearl Front that Zemaitis himself made in recent years, rather than mass-produced items. The real thing also has a rough build quality.

I think adding a shell will make it heavier.SGLightweight models with a slim bodyBassThe fact that it was used is also a big plus.

I too made stained glass out of admiration for Zemaitis, so I understand exactly how you feel.

I think it's a very good modification. Akimatsu Tuneo

Effebo Prize

Name: Mr. Naoki Tanimura
Title: Masterpiece No. 2: Ultimate Cosmic Black

There are always applicants every year.EffectorBuilt-in guitar!

This year, I was thoroughly entertained by the even more outrageous content.

I arbitrarily named it 'Chaotic Guitar'(^^)

The key points are

Continued→

①The effects unit is actually3It even has a built-in stand!

ZVEX Fuzz Factory

tKoG Mini Glitch

Analog.man Mod EHX Small Stone

I want to hear the actual sound!

② The number of visible switches is the highest ever!
Probably only the creator knows how to operate it (lol)

I really want to hear the actual sound! But then I worry—can I even operate it? The sheer number of switches makes me anxious the moment I pick it up.

Furthermore, according to the explanation, it also incorporates a sustainer and allows you to control a whammy pedal or chaos pad right at your fingertips.MIDI STRIPThe fact that it comes with built-in features raises questions about what genres of music it supports and what needs it addresses—and its chaotic content is another key point.

Just looking at it sparks your imagination—a chaotic guitar packed with switches!

Once it's displayed in stores, you'll definitely want to give it a try—play it, operate it. That's the kind of instrument it is.

EffeboTI smile as I imagine you playing while wearing a shirt.

Congratulations on your award.

Kyōritsu/D'Addario Award

Handle Name: Yuichi
Title: Slightly Bad

G&LOil finishes—they seem like they should exist, but they don't, right?

The custom pickguard made a huge difference in how it looks and feels!

Kikutani Music/MUSIC NOMAD Award

Handle Name: Salty Guitars
Title: Kerbeno Orochi

First off, I was completely blown away by the visual impact. It's an incredibly impressive piece, brimming with creative ideas.

I'd really love to see you playing the actual instrument.(Haha)

Freedom Custom Guitar Research Award

Handle Name: otoya
Title: Faure's Folding Guitar

I'm completely blown away by this folding neck mechanism. I'm hooked!

I applaud the fact that the idea of flipping the neck at this position and in this manner to achieve compactness was realized through this method as the path to the goal.

 

BARKS Award

Name: Mr. Masafumi Miyazaki
Title: Guitar Painting

Whether serious or joking, earnest or playful—my knowledge falls short of discerning it. Thus, driven by a mysterious sense of mission that this demands investigation,BARKSWe have forcibly awarded the prize.

All I know is that it's a pretty intense piece. Tell me about it.

SOLID BOND Award

Name: Mr. Kunio Yamada
Title: Benderless Pole

I can really feel the handmade charm in the work—it's great!

I imagine it was quite a challenge to drill through the thick body of a Les Paul, not a Telecaster.

That must have made the sense of accomplishment all the more intense!

It's been a while, but I'm really craving to hear Albert Lee's bending technique again!

Guitar Magazine Award

Handle Name: Page-Barrett ESQ
Title: Page-Barrett Mirror ESQ

It was inspired by Jimmy Page and Syd Barrett's mirror guitars, but the idea of fusing two legendary guitars together seems like something that could have easily been overlooked. It's not just a simple mirror attachment; the fact that it's embedded into the body is quite elaborate, and furthermore...BWith a vendor also installed, I felt this was a guitar I definitely wanted to get my hands on. Just like Syd Barrett's beloved instrument,1PUThe fact that it's a specification also gives a good impression, as it conveys respect for those who came before.

Outstanding entries that narrowly missed winning an award

5th Custom Guitar Contest Overview
Presented by TCGAKKI

2024TCGAKKI Presents

Custom Guitar Contest

Your work featured in Guitar Magazine!

Here we go again!
Popular Event: "Guitar Contest"

Under the concept of "Making guitar more fun with free ideas," the Custom Guitar Contest, supported by the unique creations of all entrants and the sponsorship of participating companies, reaches its fifth edition. We look forward to receiving more exciting entries this year.

The winning entries will be published in the issue released on November 13.Guitar MagazineAnnounced in the December issue!
BARKSand our storeHomepagewill also be published.

Modified Guitar Contest 2024

How to Apply

We have closed applications. Thank you for your many submissions.
Final results will be announced on November 13! Stay tuned!

Sponsor
Guitar Magazine
BARKS
AKIMA&NEOS
Arai Trading
Effebo
Kyōritsu Corporation
Studio Penta
SOLID BOND
Birdland
Freedom Custom Guitar Research
Moridaira Musical Instruments
Sleek Elite
TMC
Kikutani Music

The grand prize is a ¥30,000 shopping voucher.

Additionally, winners will be featured in Guitar Magazine!

Sponsor Award

🏆Arai Trade Award

Aria Pro II Care Set

🏆Alembic/Sleek Elite Award

Alembic T-shirt

🏆Moridaira Prize

Dunlop Guitar Setup Tool Kit & RAT T-Shirt

🏆Studio Penta Award

10-Hour Studio Free Pass

🏆TMC/SIT Award

SIT POWER WOUND Nickel Rock N' Roll Electric Guitar Strings

🏆Birdland Award

NAZCA STRAP ROYAL BROWN

🏆AKIMA&NEOS Award

Rama Amoeba Original Tenugui Towel

🏆Effebo Prize

Effebo T-shirt

🏆Kyōritsu/D'Addario Award

D'Addario INSTRUMENT CABLE and XS Electric & Acoustic String Sets

🏆Kikutani Music/MUSIC NOMAD Award

The Guitar ONE & F-ONE Oil Set

🏆Freedom Custom Guitar Research Award

Choose your pickup: Hybrid Humbucker, JB, or PB

🏆BARKS Award

Interview article published on BARKS

🏆SOLID BOND Award

Bandana, Silicone Band, Sticker Set

🏆Guitar Magazine Award

Guitar Magazine Special Edition: The Complete Pedal Board Guide

Regarding Selection/Screening


First Screening: Photo Selection
Secondary Screening: Physical Inspection

The first round of judging will be based on submitted photos. We look forward to receiving entries that showcase your unique personality—whether through innovative ideas or visually appealing designs.

Works that pass the first round of judging will proceed to the second round. Please submit your work by September 23, 2024.TCGAKKIYou may bring it in or send it to us, and we will hold it until the results are announced.
(If you win a prize, you will have one month thereafter)TCGAKKI(We will be exhibiting at)

Application Requirements


Anyone may submit works that align with the purpose of this event.
If it's something you've modified based on your own ideas, it doesn't necessarily have to be something you modified entirely by yourself.
Submitted entries will be featured on our official YouTube channel, so only publicly shareable content is eligible.
Works that may infringe on others' copyrights (such as unauthorized use of copyrighted illustrations or brand logos) may be excluded from consideration. We appreciate your understanding.

Please note
Pursuing sound quality is very important, but... I'll have to pass on that again this time.

Tips for Winning


Every guitarist wants to perfect their sound. Modifications are essential for achieving that, and you can probably name the most important factors to consider. However, the purpose of this contest is to modify your guitar and have fun together! To show it off to everyone! Therefore, customizations that don't result in visible changes to the guitar's appearance are unfortunately ineligible.

While it is an important element, and customizing without altering the appearance is also a chance to showcase skill, I believe it would be discourteous to evaluate sound modifications and rank them. Please understand.

Rather than competing over modification techniques, the concept is "Enjoy your guitar with free ideas!" Even if you just stick on a sticker, if your sense is outstanding, you could win the grand prize!

Thanks for visiting!!

Past Grand Prix Winners