Kiyoshiro Imawano

Kiyoshiro Imawano used a Gibson ES-340 as his main guitar while touring with Laffy Taffy, as confirmed by CROSS BRIDGE. This guitar was obtained through a trade between Kiyoshiro and an acquaintance for the Mercedes-Benz he was driving at the time. It was in excellent condition when acquired, and the neck remains in great shape. He paired this guitar with an 80-watt Orange amplifier during performances.

Kiyoshiro Imawano is confirmed to use the Guild M-75 Bluesbird, as evidenced by the guitar he is holding on the cover of RC Succession's 1981 album "Blue." The guitar's pickguard is adorned with stickers likely placed by Kiyoshiro, and a photo of his son is affixed to the back. A good luck charm hangs from the tuning peg, and a colorful Ernie Ball thumb pick is hooked onto the headstock. According to CROSS BRIDGE, Mr. Kiyoshiro preferred these colorful picks, as he would express displeasure if plain black or tortoiseshell picks were used.

Kiyoshiro Imawano frequently used the Fender El Rio during his time with RC Succession, and continued to use it with a magnetic pickup attached when he formed The Timers, as documented by Cross Bridge.

Kiyoshiro Imawano purchased the Santa Cruz D-790 brand new when he traveled overseas to record, and it was noted for sounding exceptionally good from the moment he acquired it, as confirmed by CROSS BRIDGE.

Kiyoshiro Imawano is known to use a 1963 Fender Esquire, originally acquired in Los Angeles by Hirofumi Kasuga. This iconic guitar was later inherited by Kiyoshiro and, for a time, was also played by Reiichi "CHABO" Nakaiido. This information is supported by Guitar magazine, which highlights the faithful reproduction of Kiyoshiro's 1963 Esquire by Fender Custom Shop.

Kiyoshiro Imawano used an Orange AD15 amplifier for recording purposes. According to the source from CROSS BRIDGE, while he typically used Orange 80-watt or 120-watt amps for live performances, he preferred the 15-watt amp in the studio. To accommodate his preferred power cable, he would remove the built-in head unit and set it upside down.