Harley Benton ST-62 VW Vintage Series Review: User guide & verdict

Customer Review Summary

The Harley Benton ST-62 VW Vintage Series is an impressive guitar that offers remarkable value for its price of around £79. Styled after the classic early 60s Stratocasters, its aesthetic appeal is enhanced by a light cream finish, which is surprisingly well-executed without any cosmetic faults upon unboxing.

Equipped with Wilkinson 60s style single coil Alnico pickups, the guitar delivers authentic Strat tones that are bright and versatile. The bridge pickup has a notable bite, while the neck pickup provides a rounded sound, though some players may find the brightness a bit overwhelming without appropriate amp settings. Overall, the sound quality exceeds expectations for an instrument at this price point, making it suitable for genres ranging from blues to rock.

The neck, crafted from Canadian Maple with a rosewood fingerboard, features 22 frets and a comfortable C profile, allowing for easy playability. While some may prefer a satin finish over the poly varnish, the neck remains smooth and does not become sticky during play. The fretwork is commendable, with no sharp edges or loose frets, though polishing the frets may enhance playability further.

However, there are notable areas for improvement. The tremolo system, while functional, is hindered by a subpar zinc trem block that can affect tuning stability during use. Adjustments to the action and intonation are often necessary to achieve optimal playability, which might pose a challenge for beginners without prior experience in setup. Additionally, while the guitar generally holds its tuning well, the tuners could be considered a weak point, with some users experiencing rattling or slippage.

In summary, the Harley Benton ST-62 VW is a fantastic option for both beginners and more experienced players looking for an affordable Strat-style guitar. With a few setup tweaks and potential upgrades to components like the tremolo and pickups, it has the potential to be a truly exceptional instrument. For anyone seeking a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on sound or playability, this guitar is highly recommended.

The Harley Benton ST-62 VW Vintage Series is an exceptional electric guitar that offers truly authentic single coil sounds, making it an impressive choice for both beginners and seasoned players alike.

First and foremost, the finish of the guitar is notably flawless. The vintage white colour is aesthetically pleasing, with a very well-constructed body that belies its budget price. The caramelised Canadian maple neck feels comfortable in hand, featuring a medium to large C profile, which some may find preferable to the thinner necks of other brands. The action is typically adjusted well out of the box, making it suitable for immediate play.

The playability is excellent, with smooth fretwork and a 12″ fretboard radius that enhances the playing experience. Although some players have noted that the frets may require minor adjustments, they generally offer good performance without sharp edges. The guitar is lightweight and resonant, allowing for great sustain and a lively tone.

In terms of sound, the pickups are surprisingly good, producing a rich tonal palette that captures the essence of classic Stratocaster sounds. The five-position switch offers a variety of tonal options, catering to different styles, from clean blues to more aggressive sounds. Many users have found these pickups to rival those of more expensive models, making them a standout feature of this guitar.

While the hardware is basic, it functions adequately. The bridge and saddles perform well, and the vintage-style tuners provide decent tuning stability, though some players might choose to upgrade them for enhanced reliability. The tremolo system is functional but may not hold up under heavy use, making it more suitable for subtle effects rather than aggressive whammy bar techniques.

Overall, the Harley Benton ST-62 VW Vintage Series represents remarkable value for money. It stands out as a solid option for those looking to explore the Stratocaster sound without breaking the bank. With a few personal adjustments and potential upgrades, it can compete with much higher-priced instruments, making it a worthy addition to any guitarist’s collection.