Suzuki Music Electric Taisho Harp - Katsura TAS-11 Traditional string instrument

Suzuki Electric Taisho Harp TAS-11 — A Stage-Ready Japanese Taishogoto

The Suzuki Electric Taisho Harp TAS-11, marketed as the "Katsura", is an electric-acoustic taishogoto that pairs the warm wooden voice of a traditional Japanese string instrument with a built-in pickup. Players press numbered pressure keys to lower felt pads onto five tuned steel strings, producing melody, harmony and a sustained bass drone without bowing or picking technique. Ideal for beginners, hobbyists and world-music players, this model is the right choice for anyone who wants an authentic Japanese taishogoto tone that travels from a living room to a small stage.

What Sets the Katsura Apart

Suzuki's "pierced string bridge" technology positions each bridge individually to compensate for natural variations in the wooden body, delivering more accurate tuning than a standard fixed bridge. The top panel and body are joined with matching wooden connectors, which keeps the panel from shifting under the player's fingers. Light-gauge steel strings, drawn from Suzuki's Mizuho taishogoto line, make the keys feel responsive under a light touch.

Specs That Shape the Sound and Playability

The TAS-11's spec sheet balances acoustic warmth with stage flexibility. A spruce top over an alder body produces the woody resonance that defines the taishogoto family, while the built-in pickup and 6.3 mm jack output send the same tone to an amp, mixer or effects pedals.

• Keys: 27 pressure keys — piano-style layout covering melody and chord positions
• Strings: 5 steel strings (3 plain, 2 wound) — light gauge for responsive touch and accurate pitch
• Spruce top over an alder body — the classic tonewood pairing that gives the taishogoto its warm, woody resonance
• Output: Built-in pickup, 6.3 mm jack — plug into any standard amp or effects chain
• Weight: 1.5 kg body, 1.3 kg semi-hard case — light to carry, protected in transit

Who Should Pick Up the TAS-11

The TAS-11 suits players curious about Japanese traditional instruments who don't want to commit to a full-sized koto or shamisen. Music educators in Asian school programs will recognize the keyboard-style layout, which lets students produce harmony within minutes. Travelling performers gain a distinctive voice that sits between an Arabic oud and an Indian sitar in character, as several Thomann customers have noted. Pick, tuning flute, spare strings, cloth and connection cord ship in the box.