Kikuchi Guitars is a new high-end brand created by Yoshiyuki Kikuchi (and Okada International), who has earned the utmost trust from many professional bassists, particularly for his work with Sadowsky basses.
While the initial products were all one-of-a-kind custom models, the Hermes series is what could be described as a mass-produced model with fixed specifications.
This may be a bit of a misnomer, but the Sadowsky Metroline from the Japanese-made era was like the Hermes series, and the TYO was like a custom model.
This design is based on the JB, one of Kikuchi's most acclaimed basses.
It refines his previous work and is more like a modern bass.
This model is one of the limited editions in a limited color.
The body is made of alder and the fingerboard is made of rosewood, a classic choice.
While many custom models feature chambered bodies, all Hermes series models are solid bodies.
Some people prefer solid bodies. (Personally, I prefer solid bodies.)
The shape is Dinky, not full-size.
This is one of the differences with the Three Dots, which is also made by the same company.
The tuners and bridge are HIPSHOT.
They have become a global standard.
The pickups are split-coil types manufactured by DiMarzio.
This is similar to the ones used when the Sadowsky Metroline was made in Japan.
Distinguishing features include low noise and treble.
The preamp is a custom type designed by EMG specifically for this model.
It has a simple specification that only boosts bass and treble.
And it fits perfectly, as you'd expect.
When boosting, the peak of the recess in the mid-range is exquisite, tightening the bass in a stylish way.
And yet, it retains its bass-like character and beautiful overtones.
It speaks volumes about the significance of boosting with a two-band EQ.
Controls include volume, balance, tone (push/pull switch to bypass the preamp), and treble/bass.
The factory-set string height is low, but not as low as a custom model, and the playing feel is extremely good.
It will also be comfortable for those who normally play Fender basses with Fender-like settings.
The precision around the neck, which has long been highly praised, is excellent and its quality is fully demonstrated.
The neck shape is slightly flat and thin.
It is characterized by an extremely fast, speedy playing feel.
And yet it still has sufficient bass, producing a treble sound rich in overtones.
This is a supreme guitar, made possible only by Mr. Kikuchi building basses in the modern era.
Model:4st or 5st
Body: Ash 2-Piece (Solid) or Alder 2-Piece (Solid)
Neck:Maple, Thin Matte Nitro
Fingerboard: Maple or Rosewood
Fingerboard Radius: 12″ (305R)
Nut Material: Tusq
Nut Width: 4st: 37mm, 5st: 46mm
Fret: 22F
Scale:864mm (34″)
Bridge: 4st: Hipshot 20mm Spacing, 5st: Hipshot 19mm Spacing
Tuner: Hipshot License Ultra-Light
Pickups: 4st: DiMarzio 4HC in 60’s Locations, 5st: DiMarzio 5HC in 60’s Locations
Preamp: Kikuchi Guitars Original Preamp
Controls: Master Volume, Pickup Balancer, Passive Roll Off Tone (with pull switch for preamp bypass), treble/bass boost
Body Finish: Polyester
Strings: 4th string: D'Addario .045 – .105, 5th string: D'Addario .045 – .130T
Case: Original semi-hardcase
This instrument will be adjusted by a GIB craftsman for optimal playability before delivery.
Accessories: Semi-hardcase, small hex wrench, wrench, warranty card, instruction manual
Text: Tatsuma Terao
Inspector: Kano
Product Photos: Wakatsuki
Manufacturer's warranty included
◯ About the GIB and TONIQ Warranty
● Lifetime free maintenance
Instruments purchased from our store are eligible for lifetime free ""string vibration setup"" (normally ¥4,400). (Reservation required)
・Please present your signed warranty card.
・This offer is only available to the original purchaser at a GIB or TONIQ physical store or online shop.
・Please note that shipping and other related costs are the responsibility of the purchaser.
●Repurchase Price Guarantee
If you sell your purchased item within six months of purchase, we guarantee the repurchase price. This guarantee is 50% for new items and 70% for used items.
●Defect Guarantee
All products sold by Basic Co., Ltd. are guaranteed against defects. With the exception of some consignment items, we will repair any malfunctions that occur under normal use within the warranty period from the date of purchase free of charge (returns and refunds will only be accepted if repairs are not possible).
The warranty period is three months for used items and one year for new items.
Please note that even within the warranty period, there will be a fee for repairs in the following cases:
・Failure or damage caused by transportation, movement, dropping, etc.
・Replacement of consumables.
・Failure or damage caused by fire, earthquake, salt damage, gas damage, or abnormal voltage.
・Failure or damage caused by handling that violates the instructions in the instruction manual.
- If a part breaks or is damaged after being repaired or modified by someone other than us.
- If the warranty card does not contain your name, model name, serial number, or other information, or if the wording has been altered.
- If the warranty card is not presented or lost.
(Warranty is only available for purchases made in Japan.)
● Trade-in for up to 15% off
Get a 10% discount on your purchase when you use our trade-in service. (Consignment items are not eligible. Only applicable if the trade-in value is 20% or more of the sales price.)
In addition, if you trade in an instrument eligible for our monthly buy-back campaign, you will receive a 15% discount.
We ship in a sturdy cardboard box.
We also ship internationally.
We offer free shipping.
Please note that customs duties, taxes, and other fees are the responsibility of the customer.
If you return an item, you will be responsible for all shipping and customs fees.
Note: All electronic devices, such as effect pedals and amplifiers, are set for use within Japan.
Please be sure to check the voltage and power specifications for your country before purchasing or using this product.
Contact Information
LINE: vwj2699r
Email: info@bassick.jp
TEL: 045 594 7308
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