'79-'81 Tokai instruments exceeded the quality and feel on the US made Fender Instruments in the '80s. They became known as "law suit" instruments. I own a 1980 Tokai Jazz Bass. It cost me $350 on eBay It feels and sounds better than a Fender Custom Shop instrument. There are many guitars and basses from this era that are exceptional. It'll take some searching but, you can find some nice (and collectible) instruments.