Let’s cut to the chase. The Harley Benton CG-45 isn’t just another budget acoustic guitar. It’s a surprising contender in a market flooded with “decent” options.
You know the type—guitars that sound okay, play fine, and get the job done. But this one? It’s got something extra.
I’ve run this guitar through some tests on my YouTube channels, Best Guitars Now and Strefa Gitar, and here’s what I learned.
Build and Design
First off, the CG-45 is part of Harley Benton’s Standard Series. It’s got that folk-style body made from mahogany. This isn’t just for looks—mahogany gives the guitar a warm, rich tone. And then there’s the X-bracing inside.
Ever tried a guitar that sounded hollow or cheap? This ain’t one of those. The bracing ensures it doesn’t just look good, it sounds good too.
The neck is mahogany as well, with a modern C profile. If you’ve ever struggled with a thick neck, you’ll appreciate how easy this one is to handle.
The roseacer fingerboard mimics rosewood but is more sustainable. Dot inlays keep you on track without distracting you. The neck joins the body with a dovetail joint. It’s solid. Feels like it could survive anything you throw at it.
Aesthetically, this guitar is low-key but classy. The natural matte finish lets the wood’s grain show through. The cream-colored bindings? Nice touch.
And the abalone rosette sticker around the soundhole? Subtle but sweet.
You also get a black pickguard, which you can stick on if you’re into that kind of thing. But is this guitar’s look enough to sway you? That’s up to you.
Specifications and Performance
Let’s talk numbers. The CG-45 has a 650 mm scale length and a 43 mm nut width. Pretty standard, but that’s not a bad thing. It’s what makes the guitar comfortable to play for most people.
You’ve got 20 frets to play with, which should cover most songs you’re tackling. The roseacer bridge helps with the sound transfer—important for getting that warm tone we talked about.
The gold-colored die-cast machine heads? They’re smooth, reliable, and add a touch of class. But here’s the kicker—the factory strings are .011 – .053. They’re okay, but you might want to swap them out for something better. Why settle for less when you can tweak for more?
When I first strummed this guitar, I didn’t have high expectations. But wow, this tone is better than I imagined. The sound is warm and full, perfect for strumming or picking.
It handles everything from light fingerstyle to more aggressive strumming. If you’re into folk, blues, or light rock, this guitar’s got you covered.
You can read full detailed specs on Thomann.
Playability
How does it feel in your hands? The modern C neck profile is designed for comfort. Whether you’re a beginner or someone who’s been playing for years, you’ll find this neck easy to handle.
The action is just right—low enough for easy play but not so low that you get buzzing. I’m all in for this guitar setup. Couldn’t be happier!
The guitar is well-balanced. Sit down with it, stand up, it doesn’t matter—it’s comfortable either way. You could play this thing for hours without feeling it weigh you down. Isn’t that what you want in a guitar?
Trying to find a good electric guitar too? Have a look on the Harley Benton TE-52 – Budget Tele Copy!
Other Cool Guitars to Consider
So, is this the only guitar worth looking at? Nope. If the Harley Benton CG-45 has caught your eye, you might also want to check out these alternatives below. But honestly, it will be difficult to find a cheaper guitar than this Benton.
- Yamaha FG800 – A solid choice, this one’s known for its reliability. Spruce top with nato/okoume back and sides. Bright, balanced tone. It’s a bit more expensive, but you get what you pay for.
- Epiphone DR-100 – Another budget-friendly option with a mahogany body and spruce top. It’s got that big dreadnought sound, perfect if you want something louder.
- Fender CD-60S – A bit more expensive but comes with a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides. It’s built well and sounds great, especially for beginners.
- Ibanez AW54 – Solid mahogany top, open-pore finish. This one’s got a warmer, more earthy tone. If you’re into that raw, organic sound, give it a look.
- Harley Benton GS-Travel – 100% worth it too!
Do I Recommend It?
Yes, I do. The Harley Benton CG-45 is more than just another cheap acoustic guitar. This guitar is exactly what I wanted. Couldn’t be happier. It’s got a warm, rich sound, it’s comfortable to play, and it’s built well. If you’re on a budget but don’t want to compromise on quality, this guitar is a solid choice.
Are there better guitars out there? Sure. But for the price, the CG-45 offers incredible value. It’s the kind of guitar that doesn’t just sit in the corner collecting dust. It’s the one you pick up, play, and keep playing.
So if you’re looking for a guitar that’s affordable, sounds great, and is easy to play, the Harley Benton CG-45 is definitely worth your consideration.
FAQ
Q: Is the Harley Benton CG-45 good for beginners?
A: Absolutely. The CG-45 is easy to play, has a comfortable neck, and sounds great right out of the box.
Q: Can the CG-45 handle different music styles?
A: It sure can. Whether you’re into folk, blues, or light rock, this guitar delivers a warm, versatile tone that works across genres.
Q: Is the Harley Benton CG-45 durable?
A: With its solid mahogany body and X-bracing, this guitar is built to last. The dovetail neck joint also adds to its durability.
Q: Should I upgrade the strings on the CG-45?
A: Definitely consider it. The factory strings are fine, but upgrading to a better set could really bring out the guitar’s potential.
Q: How does the CG-45 compare to other guitars in the same price range?
A: It holds its own. While there are other good options out there, the CG-45 offers great value with its warm tone, comfortable playability, and solid build.
Q: Is the CG-45 suitable for live performances?
A: It can handle small gigs and practice sessions just fine. For larger venues, you might want to consider adding a pickup.
Q: Does the CG-45 come with a warranty?
A: Yes, like most Harley Benton guitars, it comes with a warranty. Be sure to check the specifics when you buy it.
The Harley Benton CG-45 isn’t just a budget guitar. This guitar exceeded my expectations. Couldn’t be happier. It’s the kind of guitar you can rely on, whether you’re just starting out or looking for a solid addition to your collection. If you’re on the fence, give it a try. You might just be surprised.
