Harley Benton ST-57DG Black Tribute Review: The truth

Customer Review Summary

The Harley Benton ST-57DG Black Tribute is a strikingly beautiful guitar that has pleasantly surprised me with its quality, especially considering its price point. The elegant satin-finished neck is comfortable to hold, and the overall weight of the guitar feels substantial without being cumbersome.

The body and neck are well-constructed, with no gaps or misalignments, although a slight adjustment to the string height may be necessary for optimal playability. The Kluson-style machine heads are reliable, providing stable tuning, while the TUSQ XL nut is a nice touch, allowing for smooth string action.

Sound-wise, the Roswell SK52 pickups deliver a classic Strat-like tone that is rich and vibrant, making it suitable for a range of musical styles. The five-way toggle switch offers a versatile palette of sounds, from bright and cutting to warm and mellow. While the pickups may not stand out as the best on the market, they perform admirably for the price.

However, there are some minor flaws to consider. The pickguard lacks a proper chamfer, which can be aesthetically displeasing, and the initial setup may require adjustments, particularly with the action and intonation. Some users have noted issues with fret buzz due to uneven frets, which could be a concern for those seeking flawless playability out of the box.

Additionally, the protective film on the hardware can be a hassle to remove, as it often requires disassembly of parts like the knobs to access all areas. While this is a minor inconvenience, it does detract from the initial unboxing experience.

In conclusion, the Harley Benton ST-57DG Black Tribute is a fantastic instrument that offers excellent value for money. It caters well to both beginners and more experienced players looking for a reliable and attractive Stratocaster-style guitar. With some minor tweaks and personal adjustments, this guitar can truly shine and provide a satisfying playing experience.

The Harley Benton ST-57DG Black Tribute is a strikingly good guitar, especially considering its price point. The body is well-crafted, and the black finish paired with the white pickups gives it an appealing look. The neck features a comfortable vintage C profile, which enhances playability, making it enjoyable to play for extended periods.

Many users have praised the sound of the single-coil pickups, noting that they deliver a clear, bright tone typical of Stratocasters, suitable for various genres from rock to country. The overall construction quality appears to be high, with a solid tremolo system that holds tuning well even during use. The tuners are also reported to function reliably, adding to the guitar’s overall performance.

However, there are some areas for improvement. A few users experienced issues with the electronics, such as crackling pots and a failing 5-way switch, which may require replacements. Additionally, the frets may need levelling, with some noting uneven cuts and minor sharp edges that can affect playability initially. The alignment of fret markers has also been pointed out as a concern.

Despite these issues, many users feel that the guitar offers excellent value for money. It can serve as a reliable instrument for both beginners and experienced players looking for a budget-friendly option. With a few personal modifications, such as upgraded pickups or additional setup work, the ST-57DG can become a truly exceptional guitar that rivals much more expensive models.

In conclusion, the Harley Benton ST-57DG Black Tribute is recommended for those seeking a well-built, affordable guitar that sounds great and is fun to play, making it a worthy addition to any guitarist’s collection.