Harley Benton R-457 Active SBK
Harley Benton electric guitar attributes
- Progressive Series
- Body: Poplar
- Bolt-on neck: Maple
- Fingerboard: Blackwood
- Offset DOT inlays
- Neck profile: Speed-D
- Fingerboard radius: 350 mm
- Scale: 648 mm
- Nut width: 48 mm
- ABS nut
- 24 Medium jumbo frets
- Pickups: 2 active high gain HBZ humbuckers
- 1 x Volume and 1 x tone control
- 3-Way pickup selector switch
- Black hardware
- Factory strings: .009, .011, .016, .024, .032, .042, .054
- Deluxe die-cast machine heads
- Colour: Black Matte
- Suitable case: Article no. 177636 (not included)
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Additional Information
Customer Review Summary
The Harley Benton R-457 Active SBK presents itself as a surprisingly capable 7-string guitar, particularly appealing for those venturing into heavier genres like metal. The aesthetic is impressive, featuring a sleek matte black finish that feels high-end for its price point. The overall construction quality is commendable, with a straight neck and well-set frets that enhance playability. Many users have noted the guitar’s lightweight and balanced feel, making it comfortable for extended play.
However, the guitar does come with its share of challenges. The active pickups have been a common point of contention; they are quite hot, which can lead to muddiness in tone, especially when attempting cleaner sounds. While they excel in high-gain situations, achieving clear tones often requires careful adjustment of amp settings. Some players have opted to replace the pickups to enhance tonal clarity, as the stock options tend to lack articulation.
Setup appears to be necessary for optimal performance, with some users reporting issues related to string action and tuning stability. The tuning pegs, while functional, may not hold tuning as reliably as one might hope, prompting suggestions for upgrades. Additionally, the nut material has caused some tuning friction, which could deter those who frequently bend strings.
On the positive side, the guitar’s resonance and sustain are impressive, making it a joy for those who enjoy the heavier musical styles. Many have found it to be an excellent platform for modifications, allowing players to tailor the instrument to their specific needs. Overall, the Harley Benton R-457 Active SBK stands out as a fantastic entry point into the world of 7-string guitars, delivering significant value for its price despite some areas for improvement.
Harley Benton R-457 Active SBK is a surprisingly good guitar for its price, making it a great choice for both beginners and those returning to the instrument. The finish is commendable, with minor imperfections that are hardly noticeable at this price point. The neck is comfortable and plays well, although it may require some conditioning due to dryness.
However, there are some quirks to be aware of. The bridge alignment could be improved, as the strings do not sit perfectly over the fretboard, which might necessitate some adjustments. Some users have also noted that the electronics can be a bit peculiar, with reports of buzzing and interference, particularly when played with distortion. The pickups are quite hot, which contributes to a muddy sound when heavily distorted, but this can be mitigated with a pickup change.
While the guitar holds tuning well, the lower B string may struggle to stay in tune, which could be a concern for some. Additionally, the strings are on the softer side, prompting advice to consider thicker gauges for better performance. Overall, despite these minor issues, the Harley Benton R-457 Active SBK delivers excellent value. It’s a powerful instrument that excels in heavier genres and serves as an impressive entry into the world of seven-string guitars.
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