ST-70RW Deluxe Series : I couldn't fault it!

I've had good experiences with Harley Benton instruments in the past, so when it came to looking for a cheap Strat copy, they were my first port of call.

I was originally looking at the vintage models when I noticed the Rosewood version and although it was a little more expensive (not much more), I feel that it was worth every penny.

Good Points:

- fit and finish were excellent.No sharp fret ends, no fret buzz.

- truss rod operates smoothly and does what it's supposed to.

- pickups are great. I've honestly felt no need whatsoever to upgrade them. It sounds like a really nice Strat!

- the rosewood finish looks lovely!

- Hardware does what it's supposed to - tuners hold their tune and the tremolo functions as expected (just don't go divebombing on it!)

- Soundwise, the bridge gives you the classic Strat twang, the middle pickup sounds suitably quacky and the neck pickup is my favourite - nice and mellow. The two humbucking configurations (bridge and middle / middle and neck) have that slightly scooped sound that you expect.

- I didn't even have to tinker much with the setup out of the box!

- nice vintage tinted glossy neck (if you like that sort of thing as I do)

Bad Points:

- I honestly couldn't think of any - the stock strings were D'Addario if I recall.

It's a great-looking and sounding Strat - give it a go!