What are the modern Tokais like?

[singemonkey]

Austin, be aware that the made for sale in the UK models sold by Richtone music have a slight alteration to the headstock that might be offputting to some people.

Tokai makes 4 MIJ Les Paul Custom types, 2 low-end (100,000 Yen), 2 high-end (200,000 Yen).

In either category one has a mahogany top (50s style), while the other has a maple top. As you'll see though, only the maple topped models come in white.

There's also a 3 pickup SG Custom type that comes in white.

You can check out the full range with specs here (Tokai Japan):

http://www1.odn.ne.jp/tokaigakki/products/

or here (forum member's store in Germany)

http://www.tokaiguitar.de/

or here (2010 catalogue):

http://www.theguitarshop.jp/service/catalogue.html

Like I said, for "classic" Tokais like Reborns to be significantly better would have to mean that they're holy grail guitars - because the current MIJ line is absolutely fantastic.

 

[guitarslinger]

The Les Paul customs do not have a modified headstock shape. They are all open book, but then the headstock logo/design is quite different from the Gibson.

If you are just down the road in notts - very much worth a visit. Over 100 Tokai in stock.

 

[JohnA]

I am in Canada. I was looking at the LS150

That's why it's cheaper to buy from Japan, I can buy from Japan cheaper than I can buy from Canada. Being based in the UK Richtones prices are pretty competetive.

Also be aware if you are buying from UK to Canada I don't think you don't have to pay VAT which is an instant 17.5% discount

 

[singemonkey]

The Les Paul customs do not have a modified headstock shape. They are all open book, but then the headstock logo/design is quite different from the Gibson.

Apologies for that.

Tokai has done a great job with their custom headstocks, imo. And with Richtone you can try-before-you-buy