金はなくとも音楽は楽しい

Building a Budget Analog Pedalboard: Why this Tone-Purist chose Donner & Nux over Digital Multi-FX

An amp-direct purist explores building an affordable analog pedalboard for support gigs. Discover why I chose individual pedals like Donner, Nux, and Sonicake over digital multi-effects, focusing on true bypass and organic tone for live performance.

2026.02.16

Guitar Accessories

Boss Ultra-Compact Amp: Katana Mini

Is the BOSS KATANA-MINI good for vintage guitars? Our review explores why this ultra-compact amp is a favorite for Japan Vintage enthusiasts. Learn about its analog brown sound, Is the BOSS KATANA-MINI good for vintage guitars? Our review explores why this ultra-compact amp is a favorite for Japan Vintage enthusiasts. Learn about its analog brown sound, 3-band EQ, and how to use the AUX/Headphone jacks for silent practice., and how to use the AUX/Headphone jacks for silent practice.

2026.01.31

amplifier

KUSTOM 12A Tube Amplifier

A review of the popular Kustom Tube 12A in the 10W class by a current owner. Explains the warm sound produced by its hybrid design featuring a 12AX7 tube and how to use the USA/UK tone selector switch.

2026.01.25

amplifier

My Charvel Listed on a Fake Clone Site Using Past Listing Data

I discovered a fraudulent website "selling" my Charvel guitar by cloning a legitimate past listing from years ago. They are using the original photos and serial number to deceive buyers. Learn how these clone sites operate and how to stay

2026.01.20

ColumnFor bigginer

The armless maverick. Dissecting the appeal of the Fender Japan ST72-HT (S-serial) hardtail.

A review of the rare "S-Serial" Fender Japan ST72-HT. Discover why this Dyna Gakki-made hardtail Stratocaster is highly prized for its tuning stability and punchy tone that rivals the Les Paul and Telecaster.

2026.01.20

Electric GuitarsJapan Vintage

Ibanez Artist: A Unique Aesthetic Beyond Reviews and Copies, and the Pride of Fujigen in the 1980s

A deep dive into the 1980s Ibanez Artist (AR series) made by Fujigen. Exploring its history, the transition from Greco, the powerful Super 58 pickups, and why this original Japanese design remains a "Les Paul Killer" in the vintage guitar market.

2026.01.19

Electric GuitarsJapan Vintage

The things that make me glad I’m involved in music

How a humble 7,000 yen guitar in junior high changed my life forever. A heartfelt look at my journey through music, the vintage MIJ guitars I've loved, and the lifelong friendships formed in Fukuoka's live houses.

2026.01.19

ColumnFor bigginer

Greco EG-700 Review: The Rich, Full-Bodied Sound of a 70s Fujigen Set-Neck

Exploring the 1970s Greco EG-700 "Gneco" logo era. Featuring high-quality Fujigen craftsmanship, a solid mahogany body with a set-neck joint, and the legendary U-2000 pickups. A must-read for Japanese Vintage guitar enthusiasts and collectors.

2026.01.19

Electric GuitarsJapan Vintage

S.Yairi　YD-304

Explore the iconic S.Yairi YD-304, a 1970s Japanese vintage acoustic guitar. Learn about its rich Jacaranda (Brazilian Rosewood) sound, its history with folk legend Yosui Inoue, and the differences between S.Yairi and K.Yairi. A true "hidden gem" of Japan Vintage.

2026.01.16

Acoustic GuitarsJapan Vintage

Old Japanese acoustic guitars… seriously awesome

Explore the real value of 1970s Japan Vintage acoustic guitars. Experienced player Isshy explains why these "cheap" laminate guitars like Yamaki and Morris can outperform modern high-end models after 50 years of aging. Discover the secret of Japanese craftsmanship.

2026.01.16

Acoustic GuitarsJapan Vintage

Your guitar transforms into something entirely different. Three reasons why you should have a pro tune it at least once.

2026.01.14

For bigginerJapan Vintage

What Happened to Fender Mexico in the 1990s

Fender Mexico Stratocasters saw a dramatic improvement in quality during the 1990s. What exactly happened at Fender Mexico?

2026.01.14

外国製ギター