Harley Benton HB-35Plus Black

Update - had a bit of a buzz on some strings. Thinking it might be one of two high frets. To my amazement there were 11 of them. In fact a couple of them were so high I could have done with borrowing an angle grinder. Took a couple of hours to get them decent. I think the guy who did the fretwork in the factory needs retraining, or even training full stop. The thing that disappoints most of all, is that I put a note on the order asking Thomann to make sure the fit and finish was very good. They obviously ignored my request.


I have 3 HB guitars finished in black. There seems to be a common theme developing with the black guitars. I bought a CST24 in black, which was covered in scratches on the back of the neck. A David Gilmour tribute strat, that looked like it had been attacked by the sand paper monster from hell. And now the HB 35 plus, with quite a few scratches In different places. Maybe I've been unlucky 3 times with the black ones. I have quite a few other HB guitars tho, that have all been perfect, btw. The only other gripe I have, is this.... If you are going to put gold hardware on a guitar, then why not use the same colour gold throughout. The tail price and bridge look a very deep yellow shade, almost brass like, and the pu covers and tuners are about 10 shades lighter. It just spoils the look.

So in conclusion, if you don't mind hours of mindless polishing with automotive swirl remover, you're in luck, because, this guitar looks (above aside) great and sounds just as good. So if HB could just get the gold to match and provide a better finish, this guitar would be great in every aspect.

First HB guitar after so many good reviews. Sadly it was plagued with cosmetic issues that should have been picked up by QA/QC. Even though I asked Thomann to ensure it was checked over it obviously wasn't. Scratches on gold hardware, crack where the neck meets the body. Poor top F Hole execution and awful decal on the headstock that was full of bubbles. Returned and still awaiting my refund after 3 weeks - buyers take note. I so wanted it to be good but alas no. I will think twice before buying a guitar from them again due to return hassles and time frame for refunds, especially if you have no faith in the quality assurance. Maybe I was unlucky but even Darrell Braun got 2 poor ones!