Harley Benton HB-35 VB Vintage Series
Technical profile of the Harley Benton
- Vintage series
- Build: Semi-Hollow with mahogany sustain block (Entandrophragma cylindricum) and F-holes
- Body: Maple
- Arched top
- Set-in neck: Canadian maple
- Fretboard: Amaranth
- Neck profile: C
- Fretboard radius: 305 mm (12″)
- Dot fretboard inlays
- Cream binding on the body and neck
- 22 Frets
- Scale: 628 mm
- Nut width: 42 mm
- Double action truss rod
- Pickups: 2 Vintage-style humbuckers
- 3-Way pickup selector
- 2 Volume knobs and 2 tone knobs
- Chrome hardware
- Tune-O-Matic bridge
- Closed die-cast machine heads
- Stringing: Harley Benton .010 – .046
- Colour: Vintage burst high gloss
Images
Additional Information
Customer Review Summary
The Harley Benton HB-35 VB Vintage Series is a remarkable semi-hollow guitar that impresses with its stunning aesthetics and exceptional sound quality at an astonishingly low price.
Aesthetics: Right out of the box, the guitar showcases a beautiful vintage sunburst finish, with no blemishes or imperfections. The craftsmanship is commendable, giving it a premium feel that belies its price tag.
Sound: The dual humbuckers provide a warm, rich tone that excels in various genres, particularly jazz and blues. The neck pickup offers a smooth, jazzy sound while the bridge pickup delivers bright and punchy tones, making it versatile enough for rock and clean indie styles as well. The semi-hollow design enhances the resonance, producing a depth of sound that stands out, even when played with distortion.
Playability: Initially, some players noted that the action was a bit high, requiring a setup for optimal playability. However, once adjusted, the guitar plays comfortably, with a neck that feels great for extended playing sessions. The frets may need some polishing, but overall, they are well-finished and offer good intonation. Many players recommend using lemon oil for the fretboard to enhance smoothness.
Overall Impression: The Harley Benton HB-35 VB is an incredible value for money. It competes well against much pricier models and is suitable for both beginners and more experienced players looking for a reliable yet affordable semi-hollow option. With its beautiful finish, great sound, and comfortable playability, it is a worthy addition to any guitarist’s collection. Highly recommended for those wanting a solid instrument without breaking the bank.
The Harley Benton HB-35 VB Vintage Series is a remarkable semi-hollow body guitar that defies expectations given its price point. Its vintage burst finish is not only visually striking but also exhibits a level of craftsmanship that rivals more expensive models. The build quality is commendable, with excellent fretwork and a solid feel, making it comfortable to play.
In terms of sound, it delivers a warm and rich tone that is versatile enough for blues, jazz, and rock styles. The two vintage-style humbuckers provide a good balance, producing a clear and dynamic output, even at lower volumes. Many users have noted that it stays in tune well, even during heavy bending, and there are no dead spots on the fretboard, which enhances playability.
Some minor issues have been reported, such as the input jack being a bit stiff and some players finding the selector switch less than ideal. However, these are easily manageable and do not detract from the overall enjoyment of the instrument. Additionally, while the strings may require an upgrade for those seeking a different feel, they are adequate for beginners and casual players.
Overall, the HB-35 VB offers exceptional value for money. It’s a solid choice for both new and experienced guitarists looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality or sound. Highly recommended for anyone wanting to explore the semi-hollow body genre!
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