2002 Tokai Jazz Sound - Sunburst

You're looking at a very good condition 2002 Tokai Jazz Sound in a Sunburst finish. This is a fun bass to play and it sounds great. Everything works as it should.

There is a small crack on the back of the neck that has been repaired by an experience technician. The neck / headstock is very solid.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Serial Number: L20043
• Model: Jazz Sound
• Finish: Sunburst
• Manufactured Date: 2002
• Manufactured Location: Korea
• Weight: 9lbs 5.2oz
• Neck Width: 1.54" at Nut / 2.16" at 12th Fret
• Neck Depth: .85" at 1st Fret / .99" at 12th Fret
• Gig Bag Included

The 2002 Tokai Jazz Sound bass in Sunburst is a Japanese-made instrument that is part of a long tradition of high-quality "reissue" or "replica" guitars and basses. Here's a breakdown of what makes it noteworthy:

General Reputation and Quality
Japanese Craftsmanship: Tokai Gakki, the company that produces these instruments, is a well-regarded Japanese manufacturer. Their "Made in Japan" instruments from this era are highly sought after by players and collectors. They are known for their excellent build quality, attention to detail, and use of good materials, often rivaling or even surpassing the quality of their American counterparts from the same time period.

"Lawsuit Era" Legacy: Tokai gained a reputation in the late 1970s and early 1980s for producing high-quality replicas of classic American designs (like Fender and Gibson) that were so good they were sometimes referred to as "lawsuit guitars." While the 2002 model is well after this "lawsuit" period, it carries the legacy of that era's quality and craftsmanship.

Value for Money: Tokai basses from this period are often considered a fantastic value, offering a high-quality instrument that is a fraction of the cost of a vintage or American-made equivalent.

Key Features of a 2002 Tokai Jazz Sound Bass

Body: Alder is a common wood for the body, which is a classic choice for a Jazz Bass due to its balanced tone. The Sunburst finish is a traditional and highly popular aesthetic.

Neck: A maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard is a standard configuration. The neck profile is often described as having a comfortable, slim Jazz Bass feel.

Pickups: The bass would be equipped with a pair of single-coil pickups designed to replicate the vintage Jazz Bass sound. For example, a model might feature "JB-Vintage MK3" pickups.

Hardware: Expect vintage-style hardware, including a standard four-saddle bridge and "clover-button" style tuners.

"Oldies But Goldies" Slogan: Many of Tokai's vintage-style instruments, including their Jazz Sound basses, feature the "Oldies But Goldies" slogan on the headstock, which is a nod to the classic designs they are replicating.

Summary

A 2002 Tokai Jazz Sound bass in Sunburst is generally considered a high-quality, well-made instrument from a reputable Japanese manufacturer. It's a great option for a player seeking the classic feel and tone of a vintage-style Jazz Bass without the high price tag of an American-made vintage instrument. The combination of solid construction and quality components makes it a reliable and enjoyable bass to play.