There is only one perfect sound.

Yui MochizukiHow do you specifically go about crafting a sound?

Hiroyuki HondaWhat I always consider is the basic tone of a particular era. If I want to create a sound from the 50s, I listen to a lot of authentic sounds from that decade and discern the tonal balance. A 90s sound using a 50s guitar just won't do.

MochizukiI see.

HondaWhat I find interesting is how much I connect with chefs. Cooking is all about balance, and in both sound and cooking, 'how you break the balance defines your individuality.' So, when disrupting the balance, you use elements like seasonings.

MochizukiWhat kind of sounds do you like, Mr. Honda?

HondaI like all music that features the sound of a good guitar.

MochizukiDo you have any favorite guitarists?

HondaNot particularly. If I had to choose, perhaps Southern rock, 60s and 70s rock. Any band with a cool guitar sound is great. I enjoy jazz as much as rock.

MochizukiDid you study the components themselves?

HondaMy research into sound involves only listening to music. From there, I internalize the sound of each individual component. I envision combinations of parts to achieve the desired sound, and if a specific tonal range from vintage parts is necessary, I'll source and use them.

MochizukiHow many units do you develop annually?

HondaWhen we were releasing new products, I developed about 20 to 30 units per year. However, that number was the result of discarding 50 to 60 units. Listening to great music makes me want to build an effect pedal (laughs).

MochizukiThat's pure instinct, isn't it? (laughs)

HondaI listen to good music repeatedly and then explain my ideas to the engineers. I see engineers as translators. The only person who managed to be both an engineer and a producer was Leo Fender. When I worked with him, I realized that separating engineering and production wouldn't work. Leo Fender could do it all himself.

MochizukiSo, you have an ideal sound within you, Mr. Honda.

HondaThere is only one perfect sound. The sound I envision in my body is singular. It's not about specs; the ideal sound resides within me, so there's no wavering.

MochizukiThen, next time, perhaps a chronicle of Honda Sound Works' masterpieces?