When buying a soundproof room, the first wall everyone hits is: “I won’t know until I see the real thing.” Looking at catalog numbers (Dr-30 or Dr-40) doesn’t help you imagine how much sound will actually be blocked when you play your instrument.
In such cases, your most reliable ally is the nationwide comprehensive music store, Shimamura Music. In this guide, we explore the unique advantages of Shimamura Music that manufacturer showrooms don’t offer, along with their talked-about exclusive collaboration models.
Advantage 1: Fair “Test Rides” of Rival Brands#
If you go to a Yamaha store, they’ll tell you why Yamaha is good. If you go to a Kawai showroom, they’ll tell you why Kawai is good. But you can’t play them side-by-side right there.
At Shimamura Music’s major soundproof showrooms (such as Tachikawa, Kawasaki, Shinjuku), Yamaha “Avitecs” and Kawai “Nasal” are often displayed right next to each other.
Comparison Points to Check#
- Acoustics: The difference between Yamaha’s clear sound and Kawai’s warm sound.
- Door Feel: Since you use it every day, the weight of the handle and the feeling of the airtight seal are important.
- Actual Size: Even for the same “1.5 tatami” size, the internal height and width differ slightly.
Being able to bring your own instrument and compare these three points in the same room at the same time is a unique strength of a comprehensive music retailer.
Advantage 2: Exclusive “S-OTODASU” Collaboration Models#
Shimamura Music sells “Collaboration Models” developed jointly with existing soundproof room manufacturers. These are designed to address specific musician needs that standard models might miss.
S-OTODASU II LIGHT (vs Standard OTODASU)#
A Shimamura Music exclusive model of the “OTODASU” budget booth.
- Key Improvement: Standard OTODASU units are often square, which can comfortably fit a singer but causes the neck of a guitar to hit the wall. The S-OTODASU has expanded depth specifically to ensure enough motion space for instrumentalists.
- Price: Around 140,000 JPY~
- Performance: Around Dr-20 (Basic sound insulation for practice + absorption panel set included)
By addressing these niche but vital musician needs, these collaboration models offer value that standard off-the-shelf units might miss.
Kawai Nasal: Seasonal Campaigns and Exclusive Offers#
In addition to standard models, many Shimamura Music locations showcase Kawai “Nasal” units. Unlike manufacturer showrooms, Shimamura often runs its own unique seasonal campaigns.
- Seasonal Perks: Depending on the time of year, you can find “Option Gift Campaigns” where normally paid options (such as high-quality LED lighting or premium floor tiles) are included at no extra cost.
- Spring 2026 Special: Currently, for the Spring 2026 season (Feb 1 – Apr 30), exclusive benefit packages are being offered for customers completing their installation by the end of May.
For those residing in Japan or looking for current deal details, it is highly recommended to check the local store’s announcement page.
Advantage 3: Real Proof on Store YouTube Channels#
Shimamura Music stores across Japan upload review videos of soundproof rooms on YouTube. These are incredibly useful because pros and staff are playing instruments for real.
- Saxophone Verification: How the sound leakage changes between Dr-35 and Dr-40.
- Streaming Gear Verification: How the reverberation sounds when singing inside.
Searching for “Shimamura Music Soundproof Room” (島村楽器 防音室) will reveal numerous videos where you can check the actual soundproofing performance uncensored. These serve as “evidence” far more reliable than catalog values.
This is an effective way to research if visiting a store in person is too much trouble or if the nearest showroom is too far away.
Smart Buying: Campaigns and Used Info#
Shimamura Music regularly holds “0% Interest Campaigns.” Since soundproof rooms are expensive items costing over 1 million yen, avoiding interest fees on a 36-payment install plan can save you huge amounts of money.
Also, some stores handle “Used Soundproof Rooms” from display clearance or trade-ins. You can search nationwide inventory from their official website, so we highly recommend checking regularly if you are on a budget.
Summary: Call Your “Local Shimamura” First#
Stores with soundproof room displays are limited (mostly large stores in major cities). First, search for “Soundproof Room Display Stores” on their official website, and call to reserve: “I want to try playing (Instrument Name), is the soundproof room available?”
The “silence” you confirm with your own ears is the only standard for a regret-free purchase.
Related Articles#
[Comparison]: Yamaha vs. Kawai: Which Giant Wins?