CST-24 Black Cherry Flame DLX : Great value for money

This was my first Harley Benton product. I was quite curious given how much they are talked and praised over the internet.

The guitar came well packaged and protected. First, the bad: the strings felt oxidized and stiff. Going over the guitar, the is a tiny imperfection where a bit of red paint went over the binding, on the cutway. That's it for the bad.

The good: the guitar looks great. On this color it's almost like Brad Delson's Custom 24. I put some black speed knobs on it, personal preference.

The weight and feel is great. Handling the guitar is feels like a quality, sturdy instrument that it is. Intonated easily and does not loose tuning even on drop C#.

The tone is good, the pickups are not your djenty type but they do classic/alternative/heavy rock very well. Not in a hurry to replace the pickups (I always do). Electronics do their job well and coil splitting is a nice addiction and makes for a versatile guitar. Pots and switch have a positive action and feel.

Overall this guitar is a bargain for what it costs. It rivals guitars costing double, and makes me want to get a whole lot more Harley Bentons. Much recommened.