Takumi Restoration Service
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Our Japanese Approach in Restoration
Philosophy
Maintenance
Service Workflow
In Japan, our approach to restoring vintage HiFi equipment is focused on preserving the original sound characteristics and integrity of each piece. We prioritize non-invasive repairs, only replacing non-functioning parts and ensuring that each amplifier or component performs according to its original factory specifications. The goal is to maintain the authentic sonic signature that made these pieces so special in the first place, as this is what makes vintage equipment truly unique. Our team, including experienced ex-Sansui engineers, believes that excessive modifications, such as "recapping"(replacing capacitors and transistors) or altering circuits, can disrupt the original sound and lead to a loss of character.
In contrast, in the US, many HiFi workshops often adopt a more aggressive approach, replacing a wider range of parts, including capacitors, transistors, and other components, even when they are still functioning. While this may bring the equipment to a technically "new" state, it can also change the original sound profile, which some audiophiles prefer, but others may feel loses the vintage warmth and depth.
We respect that approach, and if customers are looking for more extensive "recapping," we’re happy to offer that service as well. But for us, the focus is always on keeping the sound as true to the original design as possible, so the character of these vintage pieces is preserved and appreciated by future generations.
The balance we aim for is to honor the unit’s technical and musical qualities, preserving the unique sound that makes vintage equipment so special, while also ensuring long-term reliability.
​At Vintage Japan HiFi, we understand how much your vintage gear means to you. That’s why we handle every piece with the utmost care, restoring it to its full potential while preserving the unique vintage sound you love.
1. Listening & Initial Check
We begin by thoroughly testing your audio gear on our high-end vintage HiFi system. Whether it’s a pre-main amplifier or another component, we check all inputs—Tuner, Aux, Phono, Tape, etc.—as well as tone controls, balance, and volume for each source. We document any issues we find, ensuring a detailed evaluation.
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2. Sending to Our Experts
Once we've made our notes, your gear is carefully packed and sent to our local team of Japanese tech masters—many of them ex-Sansui engineers. Upon arrival, they perform a full diagnostic check based on factory specifications. This phase usually takes 5–7 working days, and we make sure to keep you updated along the way.
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3. Detailed Diagnostic Report
After the diagnostics, we provide you with a comprehensive report, outlining all the issues found and offering step-by-step solutions. Alongside this, you’ll receive a clear breakdown of the maintenance costs.
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Out-of-spec parts are replaced to restore performance.
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Working vintage parts are kept intact to preserve the original sound.
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Switches and relays are cleaned, and if extensive repairs are required, we may recommend an overhaul.
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Note: Some vintage parts, like tone control switches and volume controls, are no longer in production. When this happens, we’ll clean, oil, and grease them. However, due to natural wear, scratchy noises (called ‘gari’ in Japanese) may return over time. Just like a vintage watch, these components may need occasional servicing.
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4. Your Approval
Once the diagnosis is complete, we’ll send you the repair estimate. If you choose to proceed, our workshop will begin the restoration. If you decide to delay repairs, only a diagnostic fee (around US$150) will apply, and your report will remain valid for 3 months. We can also arrange for the return of your equipment if needed.
5. Pricing
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Basic Diagnostic Check: US$150 - US$200
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Maintenance Service: US$350–US$400
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Overhaul Service: Starting from US$450, depending on the condition of the equipment.
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Full Restoration Service: US$1000 - US$1500 > depending requirements
6. Overhaul & Restoration Timeline
Overhauls and restorations typically take 3 to 4 weeks, depending on the workshop’s workload. In Japan, we prioritize keeping your equipment’s vintage essence intact, avoiding the widespread practice of replacing all components with modern ones. Changing out every capacitor and transistor can dramatically alter the sound—and not for the better.
Think of it like replacing the pickups in a vintage Gibson Les Paul or Fender Stratocaster. Sure, you could swap them out, but you’d lose the very sound that makes the guitar special in the first place. If you’re after a modern rebuild, a reissue might be a better fit. But if you want to preserve that irreplaceable vintage tone, we’re here to help.
Note: If you prefer a modern restoration approach, we can certainly accommodate that—though we recommend staying true to the vintage character of your gear.
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7. Final Testing
Once the work is done, our tech masters conduct a meticulous final check to ensure your equipment meets original factory specifications. For phono amps, we use the RIAA curve as a reference to guarantee the best sound quality.
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8. Warranty
For your peace of mind, most repairs come with a 2-month warranty. We stand by our work and want you to enjoy your gear worry-free.
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Simply fill out the form below, or reach out to us directly on social media—we’re always happy to chat and answer any questions you have.​
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We’re excited to help you find the perfect system—let’s talk!