Harley Benton SC-Special TV Yellow
Specs and hardware of the Harley Benton
- a.k.a. “The Dirty Mustard DC”
- Vintage Series
- Body: Nyatoh
- Set-in neck: Nyatoh
- Fingerboard: Amaranth
- Dot fingerboard inlays
- Neck profile: 60s C
- Fingerboard radius: 305 mm
- Scale: 628 mm
- Nut width: 43 mm
- Graphite nut
- 22 medium jumbo frets
- Pickup: 2 Roswell P90S AlNiCo-5 single coils
- Two volume and two tone controls
- 3-way switch
- 3-ply black / white / black pickguard
- WSC Wrap-Around bridge
- Vintage-style machine heads with 15:1 gear ratio
- Factory strings: .010 – .046
- Colour: TV Yellow Gloss
Images
Additional Information
Customer Review Summary
Harley Benton SC-Special TV Yellow Review
Having recently acquired the Harley Benton SC-Special TV Yellow, I must say I am thoroughly impressed. This guitar offers an exceptional take on the classic LP special, and for the price, it really is an outstanding value.
The finish is glossy and striking, though some might debate its true colour, as it leans more towards a mustard yellow than the advertised TV yellow. The craftsmanship appears flawless, with well-executed fretwork and a straight neck that feels comfortable to play. The frets are nicely polished, and I found no sharp edges, allowing for easy playability.
Equipped with Roswell P90 pickups, the sound is rich and versatile, producing everything from subtle blues tones to sharper rock sounds. There’s a good balance between the neck and bridge pickups, although some users have noted that the bridge pickup may require adjustment for optimal performance. The guitar resonates beautifully, even when played unplugged, which speaks to its quality construction.
Many reviewers have highlighted the excellent setup right out of the box, with only minor adjustments needed. The action was initially high for some, but this is easily rectified. The tuners function adequately, though a few players have suggested that upgrading them could enhance tuning stability.
While there are a few minor cosmetic flaws, such as small imperfections in the finish, they do not detract from the overall experience. The guitar feels light and well-balanced, making it easy to handle during play. Its tonal qualities are impressive, and the guitar has a lively character that encourages extended playing sessions.
In summary, the Harley Benton SC-Special TV Yellow is a fantastic instrument that punches well above its weight in terms of quality and sound. It is highly recommended for both novice and experienced players looking for a budget-friendly option that does not compromise on performance.
The Harley Benton SC-Special TV Yellow is a remarkable guitar that defies its affordable price point.
The build quality is impressive, featuring a solid mahogany body that is beautifully finished, with no flaws in the lacquer. The neck is comfortable and well-crafted, making it a joy to play. The Rosewood-like fretboard is smooth, and the jumbo frets are perfectly rounded, enhancing playability.
The sound is where this guitar truly shines. Equipped with P90 pickups, it delivers a rich and aggressive tone, suitable for both crunchy rhythms and soaring solos. While some users noted a slight difference in output between the pickups, this can be easily adjusted, and many found the tonal versatility more than satisfactory.
The guitar feels solid and well-constructed, with tight hardware and reliable Wilkinson vintage tuners that hold tuning well. Some minor adjustments may be needed for optimal setup, but overall, it arrives in good condition, ready to play.
With a weight of around 3.5 kg, it balances nicely, making it comfortable for extended sessions. The aesthetics are appealing, reminiscent of classic models, and it certainly draws attention with its vintage vibe.
In summary, the Harley Benton SC-Special TV Yellow offers exceptional value, combining quality craftsmanship with great sound at a price point that is hard to beat. It’s a fantastic choice for both beginners and seasoned players looking for a reliable, stylish addition to their collection.
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