The Harley Benton HB-35 Plus, shown here in Gunmetal Blue, is a semi-hollow electric guitar that instantly calls to mind classic guitars of the past - albeit without the hefty price tag. It features a maple body with an arched top that is adorned with elegant f-holes, and the combination of a sparkle finish and gold-plated hardware completes its authentic vintage look. The guitar's construction incorporates a solid block of wood that runs through the centre of the body, which together with its set maple neck ensures plenty of sustain and helps to prevent unwanted feedback when playing at high volume. The latter in turn features a 22-fret laurel fingerboard with white pearloid block inlays that provide a visual contrast and easier orientation when playing, and both neck and body (front and back) are adorned with black binding, a feature usually reserved for much pricier instruments.
To ensure that the Harley Benton HB-35 Plus delivers a retro feast for the ears as well as the eyes, the guitar features a pair of vintage-style Roswell LAF AlNiCo-5 humbucking pickups, and its combination of a deluxe Tune-o-Matic bridge and stop-bar tailpiece together with the internal centre block mentioned above provide a full, sustaining sound. At the opposite end, the headstock is adorned by a set of sealed diecast machine heads that promise many years of reliable service. The neck features a comfortable C profile and is equipped with a double-action trussrod for optimum adjustability, and both the 628mm (24.7") scale length and 42mm (1.65") nut width are also typical for this style of guitar. The same is true of the HB-35 Plus's electronics, which comprise a three-way toggle switch and dedicated volume and tone controls for each pickup, so players can easily dial in any tone they desire.
The Harley Benton HB-35 Plus is an excellent choice for fans of the classic guitars of the 1960s. Its authentic retro looks make it perfect for the stage, and its vintage-style pickups will deliver the sound that has long made semihollow guitars popular both live and in the studio. This guitar is thus ideal for beginners as well as for players looking to expand their sonic palette and of course as a backup instrument for gigging musicians. Players who can do without a tremolo will have everything they need here - and the superior tuning stability provided by a fixed bridge will doubtless be a bonus in many situations.
Since 1998, the Harley Benton brand has been catering for the needs of numerous guitarists and bassists. In addition to an extensive range of stringed instruments, Thomann's house brand also offers a wide choice of amplifiers, speakers, effect pedals, and other accessories. In total, the range includes over 1,500 products. Built by established names in the industry, all Harley Benton products combine quality and reliability at attractive and affordable prices. The continuous expansion of the range ensures that Harley Benton always provides new, exciting, and innovative products that keep players perfectly in tune with the musical world, day after day.
From Blues and Jazz through to Indie and even Rock, the Harley Benton HB-35 Plus Gunmetal Blue will be a guaranteed eyecatcher on stage - especially with its matched headstock. It represents a great choice for live players with much more expensive guitars who are looking for a suitable backup instrument as well as for studio musicians looking to unleash their inner Chuck Berry with catchy double-stop riffs, power chords, and full-sounding melodies. To authentically replicate the sounds of the era, the HB-35 Plus should of course be combined with a suitable tube amplifier with sufficient headroom.