A close examination of the specs on these three guitars will point out the similarities and differences. This is a tough one to put into words in that they are three very different guitars. Best bet for you is to audition a '57AVRI and see for yourself.

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"Another day in paradise!"

I still can't find an HR57 to try out. I may have to order one without playing it.

Has anyone come across any in-stock? I wonder if stores don't keep them on-hand.

Had the cash in hand today to buy an AVRI 57 in a local store, but backed out. It was a sweet guitar, but I'm still thinking I need to at least try an HR57.

Anymore comparisons between them?

Can't compare them by description. That you find in the products specs. They are totally different instruments and have to be played. See if your dealer will do this. Tell him your definitely interested in the '57 AVRI. Put a deposit on it for layaway and ask him to order a '57VHR for you to audition. Finish of your choice, of course. Assure him that you will definitely be purchasing one or the other. Hell.... you might wind up with both.

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"Another day in paradise!"

I just think the Hotrod is awesomeness itself. Great sound, comfortable neck. I can play the thing for hours without tiring. It covers a multitude of styles. I've used mine for Blues-rock, metal, jazz, pop and now punk bands.
Never had to mod it, it's never left me wanting. I own no other guitar I can say that about.

Yeah the neck is sticky when new, but that soon goes with playing. Especially when you can't put the thing down.
Yeah the body paint is exceptionally thin and it marks very easily. I don't care, I bought the thing to play, not look at.

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No no and no

In that Niki has posted the above, it serves to note that at one time he was in the same market as you w/respect to a '57AVRI when I urged him to audition a '57VHR. He's never looked back, as you can well see. What you can't see is that his is a CAR whilst mine is an SB-2. Unfortuntely, you don't have access to a guitar. Give my suggestion a try and see what they say.

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"Another day in paradise!"

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Terrific photo!!

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"Another day in paradise!"