Tokai AST-108 S-Style MIJ Blue Burst Transparent Ash Rosewood Alnico 2 Made in Japan

Tokai Goldstar Sound AST108 BBS/R Blue Burst/Rosewood – 2016

Professor’s Notes

Tokai’s AST-108 nails the classic Strat feel while adding the tight build quality and lively response that define modern Japanese Tokai instruments. Chimey, articulate, and effortlessly dynamic, this one stands out with its transparent blue burst over ash—an uncommon finish that highlights the guitar’s resonance and gives it a voice that’s familiar yet distinctly Tokai. A superb MIJ Strat-style option for players wanting quality well above its price point.

Specifications

Weight: 8 lbs 8 oz

Case: Basic Gig Bag

Nut width: 1.65 in

12th fret width: 2.05 in

1st fret depth: 0.84 in

12th fret depth: 0.98 in

Neck profile: U

Body: Ash

Body Finish: Transparent Blue Burst with polyurethane gloss finish

Neck: Canadian Hard Rock Maple

Neck Profile: Medium U

Nut: Cow Bone

Nut width: 1.65 in

12th fret width: 2.05 in

1st fret depth: 0.84 in

12th fret depth: 0.98 in

Scale: 25.5 in

Fingerboard Radius: 9.5 in

Fingerboard: Indian Rosewood

Position Inlays: Pearloid Dot

Frets: 22, Sanko SBB-214(Medium Size) Made in Japan

Tuning Machines: Vintage-Style Gotoh SD91-05M Lx6

Bridge: TE-VB 3-saddle Telecaster

Pickguard: 3-Ply White

Pickups: Tokai TE-Vintage Mk3 P-90 (neck), Tokai TE-Vintage Mk3 Alnico 2 Single coil (bridge)

Pickup Switching: 3-Position Toggle: Position 1. Bridge Pickup, Position 2. Bridge and Neck Pickups, Position 3. Neck Pickup

Controls: Master Volume, Master Tone

Hardware Finish: Nickel/Chrome

Case/Gig Bag: Gig Bag

Country of manufacture: Japan

Condition

This guitar is conservatively rated as Excellent condition. Built in 2016, it is essentially in new old stock condition, with few discernable signs of use and protective plastic film still on the pickups and pickguard. There is little to no fretwear. The neck is straight with no signs of warping or waviness and the truss rod has plenty of room in both directions. All electronics function as intended.

A thorough multi-point inspection, cleaning and professional setup has been completed. This guitar is setup for medium action with new D’Addario 10-46 roundwound strings, optimal relief, accurate intonation up and down the neck, and dialed in pickup height for the bridge pickup.  A well-padded Tokai gig bag is included as well as the original tools and warranty card. Upgraded gig bag or hard case options are available for an additional fee upon request, please message for details and options.

Overview

The AST-108 blends classic Strat DNA with Tokai’s contemporary precision. Despite its “Contemporary Series” branding, the build philosophy leans traditional—using ash for the body and transparent finishes that showcase the wood rather than hide it. The Blue Burst finish shifts between deep blue and green hues while letting the ash grain breathe.

The medium-U maple/rosewood neck feels solid without excess bulk, offering comfortable depth and shoulder with a gradual taper up the neck. Gotoh SD91 tuners and Tokai’s ST-VK2 tremolo ensure stable tuning, smooth operation, and excellent sustain. Fit, finish, and fretwork are truly standout features here—precise, clean, and built to last.

 Electronics and Tone

The AST-108 offers a lively, articulate voice with strong note separation and that piano-like clarity Tokai is known for. Ash contributes to the fast, punchy attack and extended bass/treble response, while the Alnico II MK3 pickups smooth out the upper register for a sweet, vintage-leaning top end.

• Neck: warm, round, expressive
• Middle: punchy with bite and excellent definition
• Bridge: sweet treble, chime, and sparkle (never harsh)

It’s a rewarding guitar both acoustically and amplified—responsive, dynamic, and full of tonal nuance. Ideal for players who want vintage flavor without sacrificing clarity or detail.