【used】Kikuchi Guitars / Hermes RV5 OWH 3.97kg #376【GIB Hyogo】

Kikuchi Guitars is a new high-end brand created by Yoshiyuki Kikuchi (and Okada International), who has earned immense trust from many professional bassists, particularly for his work with Sadowsky.

While the initial products were all one-of-a-kind custom models, the Hermes series, in contrast, can be described as a mass-produced model with fixed specifications.

It might be a slight oversimplification, but the Hermes series is like the Sadowsky Metroline from the Japanese-made era, while the TYO is like the custom model.

The design is based on the JB, one of the most highly regarded basses designed by Mr. Kikuchi.

It refines his previous work and brings together a more modern bass aesthetic.

The body is made of alder, and the fingerboard is rosewood—classic choices.

While many custom models feature chambered bodies, all Hermes Series basses are solid-body.

Some people prefer solid bodies. (Personally, I prefer solid bodies.)

The shape is a dinky, not full-size.

This is one of the differences between this and the Three Dots series, also produced by the same company. The tuners and bridge are HIPSHOT.

They've become a global standard.

The pickups are split-coil type, manufactured by DiMarzio.

These are similar to those used in Sadowsky Metroline guitars from the era when they were made in Japan.

Their distinctive features are their low noise and trebly tone.

The preamp is a custom type specially designed by EMG for this model.

It's a simple design, boosting only bass and treble.

This fits perfectly, as expected.

When boosted, the peak of the midrange dip is exquisite, making the bass sound tight and stylish.

Yet, it doesn't lose its bass character, and retains its beautiful harmonics.

It eloquently demonstrates the meaning of boosting with a 2-band EQ.

Controls are volume, balancer, tone (push/pull switch bypasses preamp), and treble/bass.

The string height is relatively low at the time of shipment, but not as low as a custom model, and the playability is excellent.

Even those accustomed to playing Fender-style basses with Fender-like settings will find it comfortable.

The neck construction, which has long been highly praised, is superb, and its quality is fully demonstrated.

The neck shape is slightly flat and thin.

It features an extremely fast and responsive playing feel.

Yet, it possesses ample bass response, resulting in a rich, harmonically full, and trebly sound.

This is a supreme instrument, made possible only by Mr. Kikuchi's modern approach to bass making.

The frets have approximately 80% remaining.

The truss rod is in good condition.

The neck is in good condition.

There is a dent on the back of the headstock.

The electronics are in good condition.

No obvious modifications were observed.

Controls: Master Volume, Balancer, Master Tone (Push/Pull - Active/Passive), Treble/Bass
Nut Width: 46.2mm
Bridge String Spacing: 19mm
Scale Length: 34 Inch
Year of Manufacture: Unknown
Country of Manufacture: JAPAN

GIB craftsmen will adjust the guitar for optimal playability before delivery.

Accessories: Semi-hard case

Text: Shunsuke Saga

Inspector: Kawami

Product Photos: Muragishi

GIB 3-Month Warranty Included

(Warranty is only valid for purchases made within Japan)


●Price includes VAT & Duties & Shipping Fee
Free Shipping Worldwide. All import duties and taxes are included in the price. There are no hidden fees upon delivery.

If you return a product, you will be responsible for all shipping and customs fees.

Note: All electronic devices, such as effect pedals and amplifiers, are set for use in Japan.
Please be sure to check the voltage and power specifications of your country before purchasing and using.