Extreme-76 BK Classic Series : Definition of value for money

I had to wait a little while due to a lack of stock, but it was worth the wait in the end.

To get the most out of this guitar, I would recommend some (simple and reasonably inexpensive) modifications. The price point marks it out as an ideal beginner’s instrument, but I would hate to think a beginner would be put off by the neck-dive, mixed tuning stability and noisy pickups. Don’t get me wrong: for the price, this is a fabulous guitar out of the box. But there are three mods that I would argue are crucial in order to fully enjoy what it has to offer:

- move the strap button situated next to the neck to where the neck meets the body at the back; this will solve the neck-dive

- replace the tuners with some Klusons or something similar; the originals are OK but feel cheap and more easily lose tuning than more solid options

- replace the pickups. I went for a pair of Wilkinson ‘Hot Chrome’ ones, which only cost me £40 and have a sound comparable to the EMG 81/60 set (which I have on another guitar).

It is perfectly playable and enjoyable without the mods, but with them it can become an absolute beast. In my opinion, there is no better option for a rock and metal fan looking for a solid starter or mod base than this Harley Benton!