Harley Benton TE-53KR BL Tribute Series
Technical profile of the Harley Benton
- Body: Ash
- Bolt-on neck: vintage caramel maple with Roseacer skunkstripe
- Fingerboard: vintage caramel maple
- Black dot fretboard inlays
- Matte neck finish
- Neck profile: C
- Fretboard radius: 305 mm
- Bone nut
- Nut width: 42 mm
- Scale: 648 mm
- 21 Medium jumbo frets
- Double-Action trussrod
- Pickups: Tesla Opus-4 Alnico-5 Vintage humbucker (neck) and Tesla Opus-TE Alnico-5 single coil (bridge)
- 1 Volume and 1 tone control
- 3-Way switch
- Single-layer black pickguard
- Gold-plated BT101 bridge
- Kluson-style machine heads
- Deluxe chrome hardware
- Factory strings: D’Addarío EXL-110 .010 – .046
- Colour: Blonde, high-gloss
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Additional Information
Customer Review Summary
The Harley Benton TE-53KR BL Tribute Series is an incredible instrument that exceeds expectations, especially considering its price point. Upon unboxing, the initial impression is one of quality craftsmanship; the guitar is well-finished with a decent setup straight out of the box.
With a solid ash body, this Telecaster has a weighty feel that some might find cumbersome, but many appreciate the substantial build as it enhances resonance and sustain. The neck is a highlight, featuring a comfortable profile that allows for easy playability. The frets are well-finished, although a few may require a bit of polishing over time.
The Tesla pickups deliver a range of tones, from the classic Tele twang to thicker humbucker sounds, making it versatile for various musical styles. Many users noted that the bridge pickup, in particular, offers impressive output and clarity, while the neck pickup, though pleasant, could benefit from a bit more character. The guitar produces engaging sounds for both clean and distorted settings, making it suitable for everything from country to rock.
However, there are a couple of drawbacks. The tuning machines have received mixed reviews, with some users finding them a bit stiff and not the most reliable. Additionally, the colour has been a point of contention, as many expected a more traditional blonde finish but received a more orange or pumpkin hue instead, which doesn’t appeal to everyone.
Overall, the Harley Benton TE-53KR BL Tribute Series is a fantastic option for those looking for a budget-friendly Telecaster that doesn’t compromise on sound or playability. It offers a great balance of quality and affordability, making it a remarkable choice for both beginners and seasoned players alike.
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