Harley Benton Fusion-T II HH: The Next Generation of T-Style Humbucker Guitars!

Harley Benton is back at it again. After making serious waves with the Fusion-IV ST-style models, the budget-friendly giant is bringing those same premium upgrades to its T-style lineup.

Enter the Harley Benton Fusion-T II HH.

By blending high-end specs like a Babicz bridge, Tesla pickups, and 24 stainless steel frets, Harley Benton is redefining what intermediate players can expect for under €500. It is more ergonomic, better sounding, and yes—it still packs that classic twang when you want it.

What’s New? Fusion-IV DNA in a T-Style Body

Harley Benton has introduced 18 new models to the Fusion-T II HH lineup. While the core of these guitars remains a resonant Nyatoh body, the brand has heavily focused on player comfort and modern playability.

Improved Ergonomics

The body contour on the back has been reshaped, and the neck heel has been tapered. This means upper-fret access is smoother than ever, making those high-register solos effortless.

Built for Modern Players

HB has clearly been watching the trends in modern metal and progressive T-styles. The bolt-on Canadian roasted maple neck (featuring a comfortable Modern C profile) now boasts 24 Medium Jumbo Blacksmith stainless steel frets (up from 22 on previous models).

Additionally, the neck features:

• A 12-inch to 16-inch compound radius for seamless rhythm playing and effortless string bending.

• Glow-in-the-dark side dots to keep you oriented on dark stages.

• A sprocket wheel at the base of the neck for quick and painless truss rod adjustments.

High-End Hardware: Tesla and Babicz

The biggest upgrades on the Fusion-T II HH are the hardware and electronics, moving away from the previous generation’s Roswell and Wilkinson components.

“To be frank, finding a genuine Babicz bridge and Tesla pickups on a guitar at this price point feels a bit like highway robbery—in the best way possible for our wallets.”

Tesla Opus-1 Pickups

The old Roswell humbuckers have been swapped out for a pair of Alnico 5 beauties: the Tesla Opus-1B at the bridge and the Tesla Opus-1N at the neck. While they might not be boutique aftermarket pickups, they offer incredible clarity, punch, and warmth that punch way above their weight class.

The “Alter Switch” Wiring

The electronics cavity features a highly versatile 5-way switch paired with an “Alter Switch” mini-toggle.

When the Alter Switch is OFF, the 5-way selector operates normally:

• Position 1: Neck Humbucker

• Position 2: Outer Coils of both pickups (Coil Split)

• Position 3: Both Humbuckers

• Position 4: Inner Coils of both pickups (Coil Split)

• Position 5: Bridge Humbucker

When the Alter Switch is ON, a “Ghost Coil” is engaged. This clever wiring suppresses the natural hum associated with single-coil split sounds, giving you crisp, quiet single-coil tones without the 60-cycle buzz.

The Fusion-T II HH Lineup at a Glance

The new models are priced incredibly competitively at either €449 or €499. The price variance is entirely aesthetic, depending on whether you opt for a gorgeous flamed or quilted maple veneer.

Note: Left-handed (LH) configurations are readily available across multiple finishes, including the Satin Gold, Flame Bengal Burst, and EMG Satin Black models.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between the Fusion-T II and the previous generation?

The Fusion-T II introduces key upgrades: Tesla Opus-1 pickups (replacing Roswell), a Babicz bridge (replacing Wilkinson), 24 stainless steel frets (up from 22), improved body contours, glow-in-the-dark side dots, a spoke-wheel truss rod adjustment, and the “Alter Switch” hum-canceling system.

How does the “Alter Switch” work?

The Alter Switch engages a “Ghost Coil” when you are using split-coil positions. This drastically reduces the hum and noise usually associated with single-coil settings, giving you clean, noise-free single-coil tones.

Are there left-handed models available?

Yes! Harley Benton continues its player-friendly tradition by offering left-handed versions in several popular finishes, including the Black Metallic, Satin Gold, Flame Bengal Burst, and the EMG Satin Black models.

Verdict & Score

Pros

• Exceptional Value: Stainless steel frets, roasted maple, and a Babicz bridge for under €500 is unmatched.

• Ergonomic Upgrades: The contoured heel and 24-fret access make it feel like a premium shred machine.

• Versatile Electronics: The Tesla pickups and Alter Switch provide a massive tonal palette from heavy humbucker crunch to noiseless single-coil chime.

Cons

• Aesthetic upcharge: Pay €50 extra just for a veneer, though still incredibly affordable.

• Purist styling: T-style purists might find the modern features and 24 frets a bit too departed from traditional vintage designs.

Final Score: 9.3/10

An absolute triumph in the intermediate market. Harley Benton didn’t just iterate; they completely elevated the T-style platform. If you want high-end boutique specs without the high-end credit card bill, the Fusion-T II HH is a no-brainer.

Pricing & Availability

All these new Fusion-T II HH models are priced at either €449 or €499, which is an absolute steal for what they offer.