DC-DLX Gotoh Pelham Blue : It'l Take Some work!

Before I post my encounter, I did reach out to Harley Benton for comment. They were quick to respond but gave me the "Corporate Line" leaving me to log a complaint with little effort on their part.

Having purchased a "Discount" guitar I expect certain things. However there were more than a few issues with this purchase.

The guitar was filthy. Black marks on the body, neck, and was covered in what looked like saw dust. Glue on the fretboard and edges of the frets. Black specks on the tuning keys. The G, B and A strings have rust on them from the nut to the 4th fret. The Tusq nut and string windings had cut material packed in the grooves left from when they cut them.

Lastly, the set up was evil. Almost unplayable. I understand that most guitars will require some tweaking but it should be chordable at a minimum.

Once I restrung it, dressed the frets (very rough), adjusted the neck and bridge, it played well although the electronics are quite weak and the pots don't really kick in until 7. 1 -7, Ehh... (expected).

If you buy anything under $300, I suspect that you will be in for a few hours of bench time by your local luthier. HB is earning a reputation for being quite good but I fail to see how. One or two items I can forgive but this one came with a truckload all of which should have been avoided.

Be sure to search on your favorite video sharing site for the sight and sound review.