I am blown away by the ST-Modern. If you are on the fence, climb on over and place your order. This is impressive. I was eagerly awaiting the launch of this guitar and placed the order the first day. It took nearly a week to ship, which is unlike my typical experiences with Thomann, but I suspect that was to allow for QC checks or due to a high order volume.
PROS: very attractive. Nice paint without blemishes. Good choice of colors. Incredibly impressive specs/features. Unheard of, and I'm speechless to find them at this price point. This thing looks. feels and sounds so good. Dare I say, "tasty." OK, I won't ;-)
CONS or less than ideal: I ordered and received two colors and both have small neck pocket cracks, BUT they are very subtle. I just hope they don't spread. One has a very stiff tuner, which may loosen up over time. No biggy. It's a bit heavier than expected, but I really don't mind that. Visible body seem showing through the paint on the face of guitar, below the bridge.
To hear more, feel free to watch my review and unboxing video: Search YouTube for "Harley Benton ST-Modern (NOT Plus) Unboxing, First Impressions, mini Review"
NOTE: I noted pickup pole pieces set below the pickup covers. This is normal for 2nd strings on vintage style staggered pole pickups.
More pros. I love the bridge. The push/pull feels and sounds great. When the bridge humbucker is split, it really pairs well with the middle and neck as a S. I do really love the humbucker as well.
WOW. Thank you, Thomann/HB!
