R-457 BK Progressiv Series : Awesome Budget 7 String

I decided to pick up this guitar for much the same reasons as many other people: I wanted to try out a 7 string electric guitar, but didn't want to spend a ton of money to get into one. This guitar absolutely scratches that itch, and is a fantastic example of the affordable quality that Harley Benton is capable of producing.

The guitar feels great; it's well balanced and feels like there was definitely attention to detail in the construction. The neck is slim and very playable, with a smooth satin finish that helps your hand glide easily up and down without getting stuck on a sticky gloss finish. So far mine has not had any fret sprout despite the changes in climate over it's long journey to the US to get to me.

As far as sound goes, it is acceptable. As other reviews have said, it's a bit muddy on the low end. It's not by any means unbearable, and doesn't make the guitar and less enjoyable to play, but it is noticable. I may end up upgrading one or both of the pickups eventually, but until then this guitar will do exactly what I bought it for: playing some heavy metal.

As with any black guitar with a gloss finish, this is a smudge-magnet. I find myself constantly cleaning it up with a microfiber to try to keep it shiny (OCD I know). I may end up sanding it back to a satin or matte finish if I ever decide to go all-in on a mod project for it.

To recap, if you want a 7 string that will do 7 string things for under $250, or if you're looking for one to buy a friend or relative, you really can't go wrong with this beast.