Harley Benton SC-550 II PAF
Harley Benton electric guitar features
- Deluxe Series
- Chambered Meranti body
- Modern weight-reduced milling
- Curved AAA maple top
- Set-in Meranti neck
- Pau Ferro fingerboard
- Pearloid trapezoid fingerboard inlays
- Neck profile: ’60s – thickness 1st fret: 20 mm – 12th fret: 22 mm
- Scale: 628 mm (24.72″)
- Fretboard radius: 305 mm (12.00″)
- Nut width: 42 mm (1.65″)
- Graphite nut
- 22 Blacksmith stainless steel frets
- Pickups: 2 Tesla Opus-1 AlNiCo-5 humbuckers
- 2 Volume and 2 tone controls
- 3-Way pickup selector switch
- DLX Tune-O-Matic bridge
- DLX Kluson-style machine heads
- DLX chrome hardware
- Factory strings: D’Addarío EXL-110 .010 – .046
- Colour: Paradise Amber Flame
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Additional Information
Customer Review Summary
The Harley Benton SC-550 II PAF is a stunning instrument that truly impresses with its combination of classic aesthetics and modern playability. From the moment I unpacked it, the exquisite finish and craftsmanship were evident, making it look far more expensive than its price tag suggests. The neck feels comfortable, allowing for easy access to higher frets, which is a significant advantage over traditional Les Paul designs.
The guitar arrived well set up, requiring minimal adjustments, and the stainless steel frets were polished beautifully, contributing to a smooth playing experience. The Tesla pickups, while a point of discussion, provide a balanced sound that works well across various genres, particularly for rock and blues. Although some players may prefer different pickups, many find the stock options more than satisfactory for their needs.
In terms of build quality, the SC-550 II excels with its solid construction, beautiful maple cap, and excellent attention to detail. The tuners perform adequately, though some players have opted for upgrades to enhance tuning stability further. Overall, the guitar is lightweight and well-balanced, making it comfortable for extended play sessions.
While there have been minor quality control issues reported, such as slight finish flaws and inconsistent setup between individual guitars, most users find that these do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the instrument. The Harley Benton SC-550 II PAF represents incredible value for money, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned players seeking a high-quality Les Paul alternative without breaking the bank. In conclusion, it’s a guitar that not only looks and feels great but also delivers impressive sound and playability.
The Harley Benton SC-550 II PAF is an impressive guitar that combines classic aesthetics with modern playability. Its build quality is commendable, offering a beautiful finish and a smooth, forgiving neck that makes it enjoyable for players of all levels.
One of the standout features is the sound; the humbucker pickups deliver a punchy, transparent tone that excels in various styles, particularly rock and metal. Many users have noted the excellent performance of the pickups, with no need for immediate replacements, even for more demanding genres.
While the guitar has some minor flaws, such as a loose volume knob upon arrival and the input jack requiring tightening, these are easily remedied. The stainless steel frets are well-crafted, ensuring a comfortable playing experience without sharp edges. The action can be adjusted for even greater comfort, which is an advantage for players seeking a personalised setup.
Visually, the guitar is stunning and has received praise for its attractive appearance. Whether you’re a beginner or a more seasoned player, this model is seen as a fantastic option that doesn’t break the bank. Many have expressed satisfaction with their purchase, feeling that it offers exceptional quality for the price.
In summary, the Harley Benton SC-550 II PAF is a highly recommended instrument, providing great value and an enjoyable playing experience, making it a worthy addition to any guitarist’s collection.
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