Hard Puncher TBP55s Bass Precision/Jazz (MIJ 1985) 

This vintage Tokai Hard Puncher TBP55s bass is a hybrid bass with both Precision and Jazz Bass pickups. I’m pretty sure these were only made for 1 year, 1985 so they are rare. I have included a picture of the bass page of the 1985 Tokai catalogue, and it shows the white version highlighted. This one is all black with black headstock, neck and pick guard, and gold hardware and rosewood fretboard. It is in very nice condition considering this bass is around 39 years old – there are few marks here and there and the gold hardware has faded in parts. 

Everything is functional and this bass provides an array of sounds. The Precision pickup on its own sounds like a Precision bass should – a deep, warm tone with a strong mid-range presence. It offers players a strong “In Your Face” tone – simple and direct. Dial in some of the Jazz pickup and you get a more versatile range of sounds that can be customized depending on the type of music you are playing – also great for Slap. The Jazz pickup on its own provides that tight Jaco tone when plucked close to the bridge.

Check online – these early ‘80’s basses and guitars from Tokai are exceptional quality. Check online for information and reviews.

The neck is nice and narrow at the nut, like a Jazz. Fitted with the original pickups and controls (Bridge 7.0Ω, Neck 10.4Ω, combined 4.3Ω).

Apparently, Tokai imported early Fender guitars and basses in the late seventies and used them as templates for their own. The addition of Japanese quality means that these early Tokais are therefore really close to the original Fenders. 1982-86 is the era of highly regarded instruments from Tokai. This one has a beautiful sound and look. Black  body in overall good condition with some wear and slight buckle-rash to the rear of the body – as would be expected for a vintage bass of this age.  The rosewood neck is in excellent condition, as are the frets. The neck is nice and slim, and this bass is a joy to play, it is a nice weight (4.1kg/9lbs) and nicely balanced.