Tokai HLS-420 2010 Violin Finish MiJ Japan (High-end Specs)

A truly remarkable instrument that I will regret letting go.

The HLS series is an order-only line that is Tokai's attempt at getting closer to vintage specs. The following are the differences (I can't link the source website in the listing but feel free to message me for it):

-3.8 degree neck angle. The standard neck angle for Tokai is 4.5. From what I understand, this allows the bridge to sit lower and reduces string tension, allowing lower action and creating a more vintage sound.

-Deeper neck joint

-Vintage-correct pickup positions

-Delrin nut

-Holly head stock veneer

The HLS-420 comes from a series ordered by Hibiki, a guitar shop from Japan. It is the top of the line model. The "420" denotes the (retail) cost in yen, i.e., 420,000 yen. In 2010, that was roughly $4800. Although the street price was considerably less than that, it was a very expensive guitar at the time. It has the following specs:

-One piece Honduran mahogany body

-One piece Honduran mahogany neck

-Brazilian rosewood fretboard

-AAA hard maple top

-All nitro lacquer finish (no poly undercoat)

-PAF-style pickups with Alnico 4 magnets developed and hand-wound by Hibiki

Just under 9 pounds. The truss rod cover has been replaced with a traditional one but the original slim-shaped one will be included. Comes with OHSC, key, warranty, and receipt.