This is my second Harley Benton guitar, the other being the CST-24.
No issues with this one as well.
For reference, I’m primarily a bass player and play guitar on the side. I’ve played and owned more expensive guitars and basses like Squier, Fender, Ibanez, Washburn and Yamaha.
No surprises in the sound department. It obviously sounds like a t-style guitar.
Technically, the guitar is well built. Neck and frets are properly finished. Neck alignment and setup is very decent. No issues with the electronics either.
Besides tuning it didn't need any additional setup before playing it out of the box. Decent action, no intonation problems or buzzes.
Visually, it’s a very appealing instrument.
The caramelized neck came out nicer than I expected and feels very smooth.
I would describe the Lake Placid blue finish as kinda ‘soft’ with a vintage-ish hue (not as bright and sparkly as on some LPB guitars). In my case the images on the Thomann website give a very good representation of the color. Together with the mint pickguard and caramelized neck it really adds to the vintage aesthetic. Very nice!
In my case, the only thing that gives away that you are dealing with a low-priced instrument, is the 3-way switch. The switch on mine feels a bit flimsy, but it functions without issues.
I've had no problems with tuning stability, even after some extensive bending, which means the tuners and the nut do a pretty good job.
All and all a solid and well-built guitar that delivers way more than the price tag might suggest. It feels and plays like a serious instrument.
So far, I really enjoy playing this guitar, which is the most important criteria for any guitar, I guess.
