The Rhythm Band Inc. (RBI) 15-Chord Chromaharp, often produced by Tokai Gakki in Japan during the 1960s and 1970s, is a highly regarded vintage autoharp often collected for its quality construction and distinct sound. These instruments were designed for music education and became popular for their durability and "sunburst" finish. Comes with the original case and in pristine condition.
Key Details of Tokai Gakki/Rhythm Band Chromaharps:
Manufacturer: Tokai Gakki Co., Ltd., a reputable Japanese manufacturer located in Hamamatsu, known for producing high-quality stringed instruments during the "lawsuit era".
Design: These 15-chord, 36-string models often feature a maple top and back, torsion-tight tuning pins, and a maple pre-stressed frame to prevent warping.
Market Position: Developed by Rhythm Band Inc. (RBI) to serve as a durable, affordable alternative to American-made Oscar Schmidt models, they gained popularity in school music classrooms.
Collectibility: They are considered collectible by musicians and enthusiasts for their warm tone and solid, "Made in Japan" craftsmanship.