So, the other day, I was messing around with the Harley Benton SC-Custom III FR, and I gotta say… wow. You know that feeling when you pick up a guitar, and it just clicks? Well, this was one of those moments.
And here’s the best part: it’s super affordable too. It’s a very solid ESP LTD alternative IMO.
Let’s break down why the Harley Benton SC-Custom III FR is such a gem and why you might want to get one for yourself.
6 Awesome Things About Harley Benton SC-Custom III FR
1. Floyd Rose 1000 Tremolo: Go Crazy Without Going Out of Tune
Right off the bat, let’s talk about the Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo. For all you whammy bar enthusiasts, this thing is legit.
Whether you’re going for those wild dive bombs, massive bends, or just adding a touch of vibrato, this tremolo system stays solid. You know how most guitars lose their tuning after one heavy bar use? Well, not with this bad boy.
I’m not saying abuse the trem, but… okay, maybe I am. It’s seriously a blast to mess around with. Pro tip: try not to overdo it in your neighbor’s earshot, unless you really want to test their patience. 😉
Why I Recommend It:
If you’ve ever struggled with tuning stability after going ham on a tremolo, you’ll appreciate the Floyd Rose 1000. It locks in tight and lets you go wild without your tuning slipping. Trust me, that’s a huge win.
2. Tesla VR-Nitro Pickups: Tone That Packs a Punch
The Harley Benton SC-Custom III FR is loaded with two Tesla TM VR-Nitro Alnico-5 humbuckers, and man, do they deliver. These pickups are designed to hit hard with crisp, clear tones—perfect for hard rock and metal.
But don’t be fooled into thinking they’re just for heavy stuff. These pickups clean up really well if you dial back the volume, and with the coil-split function, you can go from thick humbucker tones to single-coil brightness in seconds.
I was pleasantly surprised by how versatile the sound was, whether I was playing clean licks or going all out with distortion.
Why I Recommend It:
The Tesla VR-Nitro pickups are perfect if you want a guitar that can go from a heavy, crunchy tone to something clean and crisp. Plus, the coil split is just icing on the cake—two sounds for the price of one!
You may also like: Are Harley Bentons Actually Good?
3. Looks & Build: It’s a Stunner
Let’s be honest—this guitar looks incredible. The Vintage Matte Black finish with the gold hardware? Yeah, that’s some serious eye candy. The ivory binding along the neck and body also adds a touch of class that makes this guitar stand out.
But it’s not just about the looks. The Meranti body and set-in neck give it a really solid, resonant feel. This guitar has some weight to it but not so much that it’s uncomfortable. It feels substantial in your hands, like it’s built to last.
Why I Recommend It:
If you’re someone who wants their guitar to turn heads, this one’s for you. It’s got the looks and the build quality to back it up. The black-and-gold combo with the binding? Just a killer aesthetic. Plus, let’s be real—who doesn’t want a guitar that looks this good?
4. The Fingerboard Feels Smooth as Butter
The roasted jatoba fingerboard is so comfortable to play on. It’s smooth, it’s fast, and the fretwork is super clean—no sharp edges. With 24 medium jumbo stainless steel frets, you’ve got plenty of room to explore the upper register. Whether you’re bending notes or shredding, this guitar makes everything feel easier.
And the pearl crown inlays? A nice touch that adds a bit of flash without being over the top.
Why I Recommend It:
Honestly, the fingerboard feels way more premium than I expected at this price. Whether you’re into soloing or just like a comfortable neck to move around on, you’ll love the feel of the roasted jatoba fingerboard.
5. Top-Notch Hardware That Won’t Let You Down
This guitar is decked out with Grover machine heads, which are known for their tuning stability. Combine that with the Floyd Rose tremolo system, and you’ve got yourself a guitar that stays in tune no matter how wild your playing gets.
The gold-plated hardware adds a premium touch too. Everything—from the tuning pegs to the knobs—feels sturdy and reliable. You won’t find any flimsy components here. FYI, not having to constantly retune mid-session? Total game-changer.
Why I Recommend It:
There’s nothing worse than a guitar that feels cheap when it comes to the hardware. The Harley Benton SC-Custom III FR uses Grover tuners and Floyd Rose trem to keep everything locked in, so you don’t have to worry about constant tuning adjustments.
6. It’s a Steal for the Price
Here’s the kicker—this guitar is seriously affordable for what you’re getting. The Floyd Rose, Tesla pickups, and Grover tuners alone make it worth way more than what you’re paying. For someone looking for a high-quality guitar without dropping a ton of cash, this is a fantastic option.
Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned player looking for a reliable gigging guitar, you won’t regret picking this one up.
Why I Recommend It:
For the price, it’s almost ridiculous how much you’re getting here. It’s perfect for players who want premium features without paying premium prices. Trust me, guitars like this don’t come around often.
YouTube Channels
If you’re curious to see sound demos, head over to my YouTube channels, Best Guitars Now and Strefa Gitar, for full sound samples. I’ve got reviews, sound tests, and tips on how to get the most out of a lot of guitars!
FAQ
1. Does the Floyd Rose make string changes difficult?
Yeah, Floyd Rose systems can be a bit tricky to get used to if you’ve never dealt with one before. But once you’ve got it set up, it’s not too bad. The tuning stability is well worth the extra effort.
2. Can this guitar handle different genres?
Definitely. The Tesla VR-Nitro pickups give it a lot of tonal flexibility. You can go from high-gain metal riffs to cleaner, more subtle tones without breaking a sweat.
3. Does it come with a case?
Nope, you’ll need to pick up a case separately. But considering the price, that’s a minor issue. I’d recommend getting a sturdy hard case to protect this beauty.
4. Is this guitar good for beginners?
Absolutely. Even though it’s loaded with premium features like the Floyd Rose and coil-split pickups, it’s still beginner-friendly. Plus, it’s affordable enough that you won’t feel bad if it’s your first guitar.
5. How heavy is the guitar?
It’s got a bit of weight to it, but it’s not overly heavy. It feels solid, which gives it that professional feel, but you won’t need a back brace after playing a long gig.
6. How’s the neck profile?
The neck has a Modern C profile, which is comfortable for most players. It’s not too thick, so if you like to move around the fretboard quickly, this will suit your style.
Final Thoughts
The Harley Benton SC-Custom III FR is a total win for anyone who’s looking for a feature-packed guitar without the massive price tag. From the Floyd Rose to the Tesla pickups to the killer looks, you really can’t go wrong.
Whether you’re jamming at home or playing live, this guitar is going to give you everything you need and more. And don’t forget—if you want to see more demos, check out my YouTube channels, Best Guitars Now and Strefa Gitar. You won’t be disappointed. 🎸
