Harley Benton Custom Line ResoKing BK

Harley Benton Custom Line ResoKing BK review

The Harley Benton Custom Line ResoKing BK is a resonator guitar built in a compact electric-guitar format. Its slim body and two pickup types make it an unusual option for slide players who want to plug in, record, or practice at home without the bulk and volume of a full-size resonator. At a listed price of $235, it is an affordable way to explore the instrument's metallic, cutting voice, though buyer reports show that setup and quality control can vary.

The construction pairs a linden body with a poplar top, a set-in maple neck, and a laurel fingerboard. The neck has a C profile, a 43 mm nut, and a 648 mm scale length. There are 21 frets, dot inlays, body binding, and a double-action truss rod. The black, high-gloss finish gives the guitar a bold look, while its approximately 3.7 kg weight is substantial for its compact size. No case or gig bag is included.

Feel, setup, and construction

Many owners describe a comfortable neck, good balance with a strap, and an instrument that is easy to handle compared with a traditional resonator. The shallow body is a practical advantage for seated playing and smaller rooms. Some players report receiving an instrument that was close to playable straight from the box. Others found problems with fret ends, tuning hardware, paint, the nut, or the resonator assembly. Those contrasting experiences make a careful inspection on arrival worthwhile.

Setup needs depend on the guitar and playing style. The factory strings are listed as.011 to.052, but some slide players prefer a heavier set to increase tension and help the strings sit more firmly against the resonator bridge. Several owners report a fuller response and improved slide feel after changing strings. That is not a guaranteed fix for every buzz or setup issue. Check the action, neck relief, and intonation before making changes, and consider having a technician set it up if you are not comfortable adjusting it yourself.

The nut draws particular criticism in some reports. A poorly cut or low nut can affect string height and make slide playing harder, while other owners found their instruments ready to play. Tuning stability also gets mixed feedback. The die-cast tuners work, but some players describe stiff movement or uneven response while tuning. The string retainer can contribute to that sensation. Take time to bring each string up to pitch gradually and check tuning again after playing.

Two pickups, two different voices

The ResoKing's pickup system combines a mini humbucker with a piezo pickup, controlled by two volume knobs and one tone knob. The magnetic pickup generally supplies a rounder, thicker electric-guitar sound. The piezo adds a brighter, sharper attack that can suggest the resonator's metallic character. Blending the two is the central attraction: the balance can move from a smooth electric tone toward a more pointed, percussive sound.

Results are not consistent across all reports. Some players find the piezo too quiet beside the humbucker; others find it very strong or overly bright. The magnetic pickup can also sound dark on its own. The controls offer useful range, but several owners say their response is difficult to judge, with a large change near the top of the dial. There is no active preamp, so the piezo does not require a battery. If you plan to record directly or play at higher volume, test the output with your own amplifier or interface. A preamp may help balance the piezo, but it is an optional modification, not a factory feature.

Acoustic character and best uses

Unplugged, the ResoKing delivers a resonator-flavored sound at a lower volume than a full-size acoustic resonator. Its shallow body limits the sense of bass and projection, a tradeoff that suits apartment practice and controlled recording sessions. Owners describe the acoustic voice in different ways, from banjo-like and metallic to relatively quiet or thin. It can work for slide practice, open tunings, and distinctive studio parts, but it will not provide the room-filling acoustic output of a larger resonator.

Plugged in, the guitar can cover more ground. Players report usable blues and roots tones, with the humbucker handling a warmer electric voice and the piezo adding edge. At higher gain or volume, feedback and piezo harshness may need attention. The instrument's character also depends on string choice, setup, pickup balance, and amplifier settings, so expect some experimentation rather than one fixed sound.

Verdict

The Harley Benton Custom Line ResoKing BK offers an appealing entry into resonator and slide playing, especially for musicians who want a compact instrument with both magnetic and piezo pickup options. Its looks, manageable size, and blendable tones are compelling at the price. The main cautions are variable factory setup, inconsistent reports about hardware and finish, and a sound that is quieter unplugged than a full-size resonator. Budget time to inspect and adjust it, and allow for heavier strings if your slide style calls for them. For a player seeking an affordable, characterful instrument for home use, recording, or occasional stage work, it is a promising choice with some setup uncertainty.