Edit: The EMG pickups are reversed...apparently a common problem. I received the guitar with the 81 in the neck position and the 60 in the bridge position. Not a HORRIBLE thing for me as I can easily swap them, but as this is at least 4th time I know of this happening, I have to dock massive points. Hell, Glenn Fricker from Spectresound on YouTube stealth bought this same guitar and had the SAME issue. Did a whole video about it...shame.
I love this style of guitar. I am one of those players that likes to have a style of guitar for the genre I am playing. Thomann has me covered. The Harley Benton line of instruments is amazing. I would tattoo it on myself if I were younger, lol.
For Hard Rock and Metal, NOTHING beats this style of guitar. Thomann has made something great here and manages to sell it for a VERY affordable price range.
Pros: The size is smaller than a traditional EX style body so the weight is perfect imo. It arrived set up great. It needed to be tuned (from Germany to U.S.A...no surprise here) but the intonation and action was perfection. There were 0 fret end issues and they were like glass. The EMG pickups, body style, fit and finish, and everything for under $400 is insane. Thomann REALLY takes care of their customers.
Cons: I am not 100% sold on the jack position. It is at an angle, which is good and bad imo. The gloss finish on the neck. I prefer a satin (nitpicky). The tuners are good, but I remember there being locking tuners on this line in the past, though, I may be mistaken. In any case the G string does have slight issues staying in tune.
All in all if you have the means and are looking for a new guitar Thomanns Harley Benton line IS the best choice imo. Your getting great quality, superb customer service, and a fantastic experience at a price that used to get you non of that. There is something for everyone here. You want Metal...EX line.
