1980s Sakurai models

[George Richards]

Does anybody have the info on the models of Sakurai guitars that were offered in the early 1980s? I recall that there were the 10 and 20, which paralleled the Kohnos of the same period. (I'm not sure if Sakurai offered a 30 or not--I also remember an "Excellent".)

Info on scale length, nut width and other features would be great. Thanks!

[MWA]

I have a price list from Dauphin Co. from April 1, 1982. It gives the following model information: Sakurai had the models 7, 10, 15, 20, these were re-named the 7, Standard, Excellent, and the Concert. They were made in the Kohno workshop under his supervision. "They are similar in all respects to the corresponding Kohno models". The model 20/Concert was the signature model. Prices at that time: 7, 780; 10, 1100; 15, 1560; and 20, 1800. The price list does not give any specifications on woods, etc. It is possible that Sakurai made other models that Dauphin didn't import or are not on the list as the Kohno models given are 20 (Concert), 30 (Professional), 50 (Special). I hope this answers some of your questions.

[George Richards]

That's perfect--thanks!! I wonder if there's a website somewhere devoted to Kohno's guitars and designs. I've got a Kohno 30 from 1981 that has aged very nicely. But in the luthier info I've read, there's not much discussion of Kohno's designs, innovations, who influenced him, etc.

I've been thinking about a Sakurai as a second guitar and those guitars from the 80s can be had for about $1200-1500 used. That is, until I can pony up for a new Sakurai-Kohno--maybe this time I'll try the cedar top . . .