Who makes their guitars in Japan?

[marty_the_westie]

Other than Ibanez and some of the Fender's, who makes some or all of their guitars in Japan? I've found that as a general rule, (but not always), Japanese made guitars are perhaps a little bit better, or at least more consistent with their quality than Korea or China. I own 1 Japanese Ibanez now, and just got lucky finding a brand new Japanese made Charvel Traditional from AMS, which I should have tomorrow. I'm now on the lookout for other Japanese made stuff. Any help?

[ErikH]

There's Jackson, Epiphone (Elitist line), ESP has some, BC Rich used too, don't know if they still do.

[marty_the_westie]

Is there any way to know what models are mij, without actually looking at each guitar?

[ErikH]

Visually? There may be some indicators but I've never actually paid too much attention. When it all boils down to it, the bottom line is does it play good for you regardless of where it was made.

[Mr 9finger]

Japanese People

Sorry, just couldn't resist.


Usually the serial # will have a hint as to where it was made. The only ESPs that are made in Japan are the ESP and Edwards lines.

Orville is Gibsons Japan line I think? I know there is more, but can't think of any right now.


Oh yeah, some of the older charvels were made in Japan.

[JB_From_Hell]

Whenever I'm in Tokyo, I do

[pac112]

ESP ESP ESP ESP ESP ESP ESP ESP ESP ESP ESP ESP ESP ESP ESP ESP

oh did i mention ESP?

[danglybanger]

The only ESPs that are made in Japan are the ESP and Edwards lines.

Orville is Gibsons Japan line I think? I know there is more, but can't think of any right now.

Really? So where are navigators and grassroots made? I'm pretty sure their seymour duncan division is mij

I'm pretty sure MIJ Gibsons are just called Gibson now... but they're sold here as the Epiphone Elites.

slade