This is a vintage Suzuki Taishogoto (Alto range), made in Japan and complete with its original hard case. If you’re not familiar with the taishogoto, it’s a traditional Japanese keyed string instrument — sort of a cross between a lap steel, autoharp, and keyboard — and this example is the electric version, designed to be amplified.
This one is labeled “Alto” (アルト) and features numbered key buttons for intuitive playability. The instrument has a single pickup, onboard volume and tone controls, and outputs via standard 1/4" jack. Plugged in, it produces a haunting, droning, very expressive tone that works beautifully for ambient music, experimental recordings, film scoring, or traditional Japanese music.
Condition
Overall very good vintage condition
Cosmetic wear consistent with age: light scratches, small dings, and finish wear (see photos)
Electronics are intact and responsive
Keys function properly
Original hard case included (also in good vintage shape)
This is a fantastic piece for:
Experimental or ambient musicians
Studio players looking for unusual textures
Collectors of Japanese instruments
Anyone wanting something genuinely different from the usual guitar/synth world
You don’t see these come up often, especially complete with the original case.
Bin - #2 PA-0
This is a vintage Suzuki Taishogoto (Alto range), made in Japan and complete with its original hard case. If you’re not familiar with the taishogoto, it’s a traditional Japanese keyed string instrument — sort of a cross between a lap steel, autoharp, and keyboard — and this example is the electric version, designed to be amplified.
This one is labeled “Alto” (アルト) and features numbered key buttons for intuitive playability. The instrument has a single pickup, onboard volume and tone controls, and outputs via standard 1/4" jack. Plugged in, it produces a haunting, droning, very expressive tone that works beautifully for ambient music, experimental recordings, film scoring, or traditional Japanese music.
Condition
Overall very good vintage condition
Cosmetic wear consistent with age: light scratches, small dings, and finish wear (see photos)
Electronics are intact and responsive
Keys function properly
Original hard case included (also in good vintage shape)
This is a fantastic piece for:
Experimental or ambient musicians
Studio players looking for unusual textures
Collectors of Japanese instruments
Anyone wanting something genuinely different from the usual guitar/synth world
You don’t see these come up often, especially complete with the original case.
Bin - #2 PA-0
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