RB-612CS Classic Series : Harley Benton RB612CS

The guitar is excellent value for money - let me rephrase that, outstanding value for money.

I do not play professionally so performance use will be limited to small gatherings and fun events. Sorting and other injuries have taken their toll on, my left hand in particular, which causes tiredness to set it after half hour or more of playing one of my acoustic 12 string guitars. I needed a guitar with a lower action that is possible with most acoustic 12 string guitars and this is the cheapest (that is low cost) that seemed worth looking at and playing.

I have had the instrument for 6 days and letting it settle in plus making small adjustments to accommodate my playing. These are going just fine and should be about right after the guitars acclimatisation - probably another week or 10 days.

There are no obvious flaws, in fact the guitar looks much like you would expect for 4 or 5 times the price. The pickups are good enough for what I want and, having put it through two different amps, more than satisfied with the sound. A bit of experimentation will find the exact sound I want, though getting there is an enjoyable process.

Others have made their comments on their experience of the guitar so I will keep this brief and say that I have acquired a 12 string semi-acoustic 12 string guitar for a little over £200 that could justify itself against those many times more that price.

It is not a Rickenbacker and is one tenth the price of an equivalent and it would be unrealistic to think that it compares directly. However, what you get is a very acceptable compromise against the Rickenbacker.