We visited Carlos Asensio, creator of the Guitarraviva YouTube channel — the largest Spanish-speaking guitar education platform — to talk about a major milestone: the official launch of his Harley Benton Signature model.
This is not a limited custom shop piece. It’s a full-production signature guitar developed over more than two years, designed with a clear vision from day one.
A Superstrat Designed by a Real Working Guitarist
Carlos knew exactly what he wanted:
“I always knew it had to be a superstrat… and it had to have a VegaTrem.”
The goal wasn’t just to put his name on a headstock. It was to create the guitar he wished he had 30 years ago — versatile, comfortable, modern, and accessible.
Instead of upgrading a basic platform with a premium component, the concept was to design a balanced instrument from the ground up.
VegaTrem VT1 Ultra Trem – The Full Version
Carlos’ Harley Benton Signature features the VegaTrem VT1 Ultra Trem, the exact same version available as a standalone unit.
This is important: it’s not a simplified or cost-reduced edition.
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Same saddles, pivot system, and arm
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Refined stainless steel block
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Identical high-end specifications
“It’s not a cheaper version. It’s the same VegaTrem you’d install on much more expensive guitars.”
The body is also routed to optimize the full range of the tremolo system — something Carlos already does on his personal guitars.
Specs That Raise the Standard
This model breaks the typical “budget brand” expectations with premium features:
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Roasted maple neck
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Rosewood fingerboard
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Compound radius
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Locking tuners
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Graphite nut
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Stainless steel frets
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Glow-in-the-dark side dots for dark stages
Carlos explains that while traditional nickel frets were considered for tone reasons, stainless steel was ultimately chosen for durability and long-term stability.
Electronics include:
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Tesla humbucker with an ’80s-inspired voicing
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Coil-split system with a resistor to prevent sudden volume drops
The result is a highly versatile instrument capable of covering classic rock tones as well as modern high-gain territory.
Strong Visual Identity
Carlos intentionally avoided standard black or red finishes. Instead, the model comes in two distinctive colors:
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A blue/grey finish that shifts subtly under light
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A bold metallic green with modern character
Both finishes reinforce the guitar’s identity and set it apart visually.
More Than a Signature – A Generational Statement
Carlos also reflects on what launching a signature model represents:
“It’s not about being the best guitarist. It’s about impact — about helping people start playing.”
He sees it as a collective achievement after years of teaching, content creation, and supporting the guitar community.
When asked about criticism, his perspective is direct:
“Haters are my fuel.”
VegaTrem as a Structural Upgrade
One of the most interesting aspects of the conversation is Carlos’ insistence that VegaTrem isn’t just cosmetic — it’s structural.
“The resonance this bridge brings improves any guitar instantly.”
It’s about stability, response, sustain, and long-term reliability.
A Price-to-Performance Ratio Hard to Beat
This is a guitar that offers high-end specifications at an accessible price point.
Built to work. Built to last. No unnecessary extras.
As Carlos puts it:
“It’s a no-nonsense guitar that does exactly what it’s supposed to do.”