Harley Benton HBV 990AM Electric Violin

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Harley Benton HBV 990AM Electric Violin

Harley Benton

HBV 990AM Electric Violin

4.4 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 351786
Model: HBV 990AM Electric Violin
Price: $174.90

* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.

The Harley Benton HBV 990AM is a surprisingly capable entry point into the world of electric violins. It's a budget-friendly option ideal for students, beginners, or anyone wanting to experiment with amplified violin sounds without a huge investment. While it's not a professional-grade instrument, it delivers a decent amplified tone and a complete, ready-to-play package.

Product Description

  • Harley Benton HBV 990AM Electric Violin
  • Electric Violin
  • Size: 4/4
  • Active pickup system
  • Headphone output
  • Jack output
  • Body: Basswood
  • Plastic frame
  • Fingerboard and tuning pegs: Birch
  • Colour: Amber
  • Includes a case
  • shoulder rest
  • composite bow
  • rosin and 9V battery
PROS
  • • Basswood body offers surprisingly warm, resonant tones for the price.
  • • Active pickup system provides a usable, amplified signal with minimal noise.
  • • Complete package includes essential accessories, lowering the initial investment.
  • • Birch fingerboard provides a playable surface, avoiding the slickness of some plastics.
CONS
  • • Plastic frame feels noticeably less robust than traditional wooden construction.
  • • Composite bow lacks the responsiveness and nuanced feel of a decent Brazilwood bow.
  • • Limited tonal versatility; primarily suited for folk, classical, and softer genres.

Product Video

Key Features

Type Electric Violin
Strings Steel (likely synthetic core)
Pickups Active Piezo System
Connections 1/4 in Jack Output, 3.5mm Headphone Output
Body Material Basswood
Weight Approximately 7 lbs

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Frequently Asked Questions

It's significantly different; the piezo pickups emphasize the higher frequencies and offer a more direct, less 'airy' sound than a traditional acoustic violin's natural resonance.
While it's not as fragile as it feels, it's definitely less durable than a hardwood frame; handle with care and avoid significant impacts.
Yes, the standard 1/4 in jack makes swapping pickups relatively straightforward for someone with basic electronics knowledge, though modifications may be needed.

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