Hosozao Shamisen Super Set “Masaki”

Masaki is a fantastic choice as a beginner shamisen with a sound that will make you fall in love with shamisen music even more. I can’t say what it is about this instrument, but its sound stood out when I first tried it out. And just look at the chocolatey wood grain!

Masaki comes with a lot of extras: an attached position marker (fujaku strip), an attached anti-slip mat (dougomu), an applied bachigawa (skin protector) on top of the other basic accessories. It’s the most complete set that I offer. So you’ll be ready to play once you pick a bridge (koma), a pick (bachi) and a finger sleeve (yubisuri).

The style of this shamisen is (hosozao), typically used for Nagauta playing style. Because less wood is used in building, this kind of shamisen is more affordable than chunkier types and is very popular among people first trying out playing the shamisen.

The instrument is made from karin wood – an established choice for beginner instruments. The instrument comes with a vibrant orange doukake with stylized chrysanthemums and a classic purple neo. Also included in the package is a set of attached strings and a tenjin cap. On top of that I attached a bachigawa, a fujaku strip, and a dougomu. The dou is freshly skinned with natural skins that make the instrument sound really nice. It’s

This neck is 25 mm wide and 27 mm high/thick at the top and widens slightly towards the dou. It has an elegantly slanted hatomune – the part where the neck enters the sound box – which is typical for hosozao shamisen associated with Nagauta style. You can play up to position 19 with this kind of neck. The fingerboard is freshly flattened and the joints have a good and tight fit.

The tsukigata (the curved end of the tenjin) is in perfect condition. The neck is crafted in mitsuori style: It can be separated into three parts. This makes travelling with the shamisen very easy – even if you have to get by with light and small luggage. The joints have a very tight fit. This really is a sturdy little instrument!

The itomaki (tuning pegs) are made from ebony wood and are carved in a traditional way that makes them easy to grip despite their slender built.

If you have any further questions, reach out and send me a message and I’ll be happy to help.

All you need to add to your set to start playing are a koma, a bachi and a yubisuri. Depending on the style you intend to play and your personal preferences, you want to pick a certain kind of koma and bachi. Yubisuri come in different sizes, and I didn’t want to deprive you of the difficult yet fun choice between all the wonderful colors.

If you need help with picking the right additions to this set, don’t hesitate to send a message and we will find the perfect match for you together.