To be honest I have no idea - I am fairly new to Tokai, I don't like Strats period, never did, I guess it has something to do with me being a rythm player, though I understand why lead players love the accessibility to the upper strings (a disadvantage with the LR design). I always wanted a Les Paul, but couldn't afford one, I was less than impressed with every Epi I had tried, bought my LR sight unseen off EBAY, and was stunned with the quality of the guitar when it arrived. I changed the strings & dropped the bridge a small amount & it is silky smooth to play. I read a lot about Korean vs Jap, I can't comment on that, but the hardware on my guitar appears to be of excellent quality.
