Harley Benton EX-84 Modern VW
The specifics of the Harley Benton EX-84 Modern VW
- Mahogany body
- Set mahogany neck
- Ebony fingerboard
- White dot fingerboard inlays
- Neck profile: Slim Taper C
- Neck thickness at 1st fret: 22.5 mm, neck thickness at 12th fret: 25 mm
- Fingerboard radius: 305 mm (12″)
- Scale: 628 mm
- Nut width: 42 mm
- Nut: Graph Tech Tusq XL
- 22 Extra jumbo frets
- Pickups: active Roswell LZ56 (bridge) and Roswell LZ51 (neck) humbuckers
- 1 Master volume and 1 master tone control
- 3-way switch
- WSC Tune-O-Matic bridge
- HB by Jinho J-03 machine heads
- Black hardware
- Strings: DR Strings Dragon Skin coated DSE-10 Heavey .010 – .046 (Art. 593115)
- Colour: Gloss Vintage White
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Additional Information
Customer Review Summary
The Harley Benton EX-84 Modern VW is an impressive instrument that stands out in the world of affordable Explorer guitars. Right out of the box, it boasts a solid setup with good intonation and string height, making it ready to play without significant adjustments.
The guitar features excellent hardware, including Grover locking tuners and a sturdy Tune-o-matic bridge, ensuring reliable tuning stability. The fretwork is commendable, with polished frets that feel smooth under the fingers, although some users noted the neck could be a bit thicker than expected.
Visually, the guitar is striking, with a bright white finish that contrasts beautifully with the ebony fretboard. However, a few minor imperfections were noted in the finish, particularly around the electronics cavity, which, while not immediately visible, do detract slightly from the overall presentation.
Sound-wise, the active Roswell pickups deliver a punchy output that works well for rock and metal genres, although they may lack the clarity and precision desired for more intricate playing styles. Some players found them to be bass-heavy and muddy, prompting discussions about potential upgrades to EMG or Seymour Duncan pickups. Nevertheless, they are considered adequate for beginners or those not seeking a specific tonal characteristic.
In terms of playability, the guitar is generally comfortable, although it can exhibit neck dive when played standing, an issue common to Explorer shapes. The positioning of the pickup selector switch has also been criticized for being awkwardly located, making it less accessible during play.
Overall, the Harley Benton EX-84 Modern VW offers remarkable value for its price. It combines a striking aesthetic with reliable performance, making it a solid choice for both beginners and experienced players looking for an affordable option. With some minor upgrades, it has the potential to be a standout addition to any guitarist’s collection.
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