New to Shamisen...

General
#1

Hi everyone, my name is Josh. I am new to the Shamisen, but not stringed instruments in general. I’ve been playing bass guitar for over 20 years and my studies in the Japanese language and culture has naturally migrated to music as well.

I recently picked up Kyle’s book and realized very quickly that I will never make my own Shamisen, but I could easily make some of the accessories. I do laser cutting and engraving as a side business, so I’m already working on how to make my own koma and bachi.

The only thing left is to buy an actual Shamisen. I sat on the fence for a long time and am kicking myself now for not ordering one of the last Eclipse models last year. The beginner Shamisen simply isn’t going to work for me and the Sakura is a bit too feminine for my tastes. I am also really hesitant to order anything from eBay. So, I guess I’m limited to the few other choices available in the shop, but I’m unclear on what are the really important things are to take into consideration when deciding on a Shamisen.

#2

Welcome aboard :smiley:
It’s really cool you’re making a koma and bachi.
Bachido does have some nice shamisen in the “more” section of the store. Important considerations include the type of shamisen you want (Tsugaru, Nagauta, or Jiuta are probably the big three, though others do exist). You can always switch out your doukake and neo (the armrest and knot the strings attach to) with a variety of colors and patterns, so at least you might not have to worry too much about that.
Things such as wood type and skin type can matter as well.
For example, kouki is considered the best type of wood, but karin wood is cheaper and more accessible. That said there is some very fine Karin wood, that possibly even outclasses the kouki in some cases.
Natural skin also has the best sound, but is delicate (as in susceptible to weather and humidity and such) too and what it’s made from is a big turn-off for many. Luckily synthetic skins have advanced a huge amount, and good ones offer near-identical sound and feel to the natural skin.
I hope you enjoy Bachido and shamisen!

#3

Thanks Ian, I’ve been looking at those ones as well. I just wish there was as much information about those as there is for the Sakura and Eclipse models. Anyway, I put together a cart of stuff and requested a quote last night. So, I’m just waiting to hear back from them now.

#4

You’re welcome! Masahiro Nitta picks really good products for the store, I think you’ll be happy :smiley:

#5

I’ve already exchanged several e-mails with Kyle in the past day or so. I’m amazed at how quickly he responds and provides detailed information and answers to all of my newbie questions. I’m getting closer to a final decision.

#6

Haha, it’s true, Kyle’s awesome. Best of luck with it all!

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