eubassix Posted May 28, 2010 Share Posted May 28, 2010 (edited) Having taken ages to complete this matched pair of Tokai J's, thought I'd share the result (and ideas, if interest) here ... although not sure if it's the right place (?). Bought the two (identical) basses online. There's no fretless version available - so then had to source tools (fret removal) and investigate what's available to create something similar to the glossy finish on the Pedulla basses, whilst avoiding the use of superglue or epoxies (which sounded a bit risky, with limited skill/s and resources). So, basically, all I've done is to remove one neck (after spending some time playing the basses and deciding which was the better fretted/fretless option), then spent hours removing frets, filling slots (decided to use filler rather than veneers, as I knew I wanted to try the poly-coating; and a more subtle red-mahogany, then the usual white-maple) and then sanding & coating the f/board. Quite pleased with the results (see photos) - as the basses feel exactly the same and the fretless has worked-out pretty well; not quite as glassy (or Perfect !) as the Pedulla boards ... but it does 'sing' and resonate well (plent of 'mwaaahh'). I've decided to use some LaBella Deep-Talkin' flats on the FL initally, just to see how the finish copes - although it is described as 'the toughest finish for all interior woodwork/furniture (heat, impact, alcohol & solvent resistant)' and was/is used for Bar top coatings (hence the alcohol reference!). Edited June 15, 2011 by eubassix Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KiOgon Posted May 28, 2010 Share Posted May 28, 2010 Very nice looks a top job & what a lovely pair Cheers, John Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
silverfoxnik Posted May 28, 2010 Share Posted May 28, 2010 Gorgeous!! I had a 1984 Tokai that was lovely so can appreciate these from that point of view.. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
OutToPlayJazz Posted May 28, 2010 Share Posted May 28, 2010 I was looking at one of these in Electro today as it happens! Very nice basses & a fantastic job on the fretless neck - You're a braver man than me Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BassBod Posted May 29, 2010 Share Posted May 29, 2010 Looks good - but superglue isn't that scary - its surprising how little you need to make it sing, and the fingerboard soaks up the first applications very quickly. Don't get it on your hands though.... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cat Burrito Posted May 29, 2010 Share Posted May 29, 2010 They look great. Tokai is basically the Fender Japan factory anyway so you know they are going to be good Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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