Probably the best new cheap semi-hollow guitar, Harley Benton HB-35

This guitar definitely looks the part. When it comes to a ES-335ish size, sound and feel, I don't think you can do much better than the Harley Benton HB-35.

Yes, this is a real-deal archtop.

Yes, the finish is actual high gloss.

Yes, it has neck-thru construction.

The F-holes are real and not fake, meaning it's an actual semi-hollow.

The price? That's the best part.

It's under $300 new for most places that sell them.

As far as the rest of the construction, the body is maple with a mahogany center block. The neck is Canadian maple and fingerboard radius is 12" (just like a real ES-335).

The only thing I don't know is the pickup specifications. Harley Benton labels them as "vintage-style". I don't know the magnet type as to whether it's ceramic or alnico. And if it is alnico, I don't know if it's alnico 2 or 5 (I would personally prefer alnico 2 just for my playing style).

For as cheap as you can get this for, heck, even when you factor in pickup replacement it's still a bargain.

Published 2024 Apr 25