Harley Benton DC-Junior Pelham Blue Review: Our thoughts

Customer Review Summary

The Harley Benton DC-Junior Pelham Blue is an impressive guitar that offers exceptional value for money. Right out of the box, it boasts a beautiful finish with no blemishes and a well-finished fretboard that feels smooth under the fingers. The lightweight body makes it comfortable to play, especially for longer sessions.

The sound is bright and articulate, thanks to the Roswell P90 pickup, which delivers a clear tone and a decent amount of sustain. While some users noted that the pickup could be positioned closer to the strings for a more aggressive sound, it still performs admirably for clean tones and light distortion. Adjusting the pickup height is a straightforward fix for those seeking a more punchy response.

Setup-wise, the guitar arrives in a playable condition; however, many players recommend minor adjustments for optimal performance. The action may be slightly higher than preferred due to the wraparound bridge design, which can limit how low the strings can be set. Some users have opted to replace the bridge with a lower-profile model to enhance playability further.

The hardware, including the tuners and pots, is reliable and functions well, although a few players have expressed a desire for upgrades, particularly to the tuners for a sturdier feel. The electronics are clean and responsive, making it easy to dial in the desired tone.

Despite minor issues such as a poorly cut nut or a few sharp fret ends, the overall craftsmanship is commendable for the price point. The guitar’s aesthetic appeal, especially in the striking Pelham Blue finish, makes it a joy to own. Whether for beginner players or seasoned musicians looking for a budget-friendly option, the Harley Benton DC-Junior Pelham Blue stands out as a solid choice that delivers both in performance and style.

In conclusion, this guitar is not just a budget instrument; it holds its own against more expensive models, proving to be a fantastic addition to any player’s collection.

The Harley Benton DC-Junior Pelham Blue presents itself as an appealing choice for beginners and those looking for an affordable instrument. The quality of the frets is commendable, and it offers a visually striking appearance that pays homage to classic designs.

However, it’s worth noting that the overall length of the guitar is shorter than that of typical electric guitars, likely due to a smaller body size. This may take some getting used to for players accustomed to standard dimensions.

While the guitar plays reasonably well out of the box, the action leaves something to be desired, and adjustments can be tricky because of the utilitarian nut. The single Roswell pickup has a somewhat limited range, only truly coming to life with added distortion, and its natural sound can feel a bit flat and uninspiring.

The Wilkinson tuners, while functional, do not maintain perfect tuning stability and may require frequent minor adjustments. Overall, the Harley Benton DC-Junior is a solid choice for beginners seeking an accessible and modifiable guitar, although those looking for a professional gigging instrument might want to explore further options.

In summary, this guitar is a great entry point into the world of electric guitars, striking a balance between affordability and playability, making it an excellent option for budding musicians.