After you pointed out the way the upper front of the guitar blended into the lower front part of the guitar body in a nice fluid curve,.... Once you see it, you can't unsee it! I don't even want a Gibson Les Paul anymore. It will have to be some version of Harley Benton's SC line...
I bought the 550 Plus emg, thanks to Henning. I ordered it and it arrived at the doorstep in less than 72 hours from Germany to Alaska.. That was faster than anyone else has ever delivered a guitar here in the states.. I've had it nearly 2 weeks now and Its really growing on me. I actually really like the fat 55's. Very versatile pups. The guitar looks, feels and sounds amazing. Love it. Thanks Henning.. I thank you cause because of you I have a few guitars in my collection I got just because of your reviews/demos. My wife thanks you very sarcastically though.... :) However, I'm not seeing the 550 plug EMG listed on the Thomann site anymore.. ??
Interesting video - thank you! I have just found your channel now through other US chap about CGS Mark - you know what! Maybe 5 weeks ago I watched Mark's CGS video about the SC-Custom and his video convinced me it was 'another' guitar for me... I totally agreed with him about price quality and also the possible mod needed. i.e. The 2 volume potentiometers changed into a Master Volume (in place of Neck vol) and a Balance. So, not really knowing about Mark, I emailed him asking if he did the mod, as it really needs it to make it perfect. Well I found out about him only today! I did notice he did not put any videos out from a long time and did not have time lately to search his channel. I actually cried and I did not know him, because I though I found a similar guy as I am... 👍🎸🎶🤘🏻
Your reviews are some of the best on YT. I appreciate that you don't blow smoke up our ass about the quality of the guitars. Thank you brother be safe peace 😎✌🤪💨💨💨🌅🌈🐻🐢
Have been waiting for this comparison after I already watched the individual videos. It is a valuable addition! Thx a lot for providing it. Though it makes my decision not an easier one. Though I like the form factor and sound of the SC-550+ EMG pickups, I really do like the finish of the SC-Custom+ in Trans Brown Flame. And I have not yet come to a conclusion about the overall sound of the EMG Retro Active Hot 70 pickups. As the SC-550+ isn't available anymore for the time being, I think I give the Custom+ a try. And if I really do not like it, there is always Thomann's return policy.
On the clean strums, I'm definitely getting a bigger, deeper sound on the SC Custom (the one with 3 knobs) with more prominent low end and more size in general, and a tad more precision especially high end on the SC550 but thinner overall.
As always, a fantastic review of 2 guitars with 'no holds barred'. This is exactly what we want to hear, the good AND the bad. Thank you for doing these reviews buddy!
great demo! I think these guitars really open up EMGs as an option for me too. I probably wouldn't have gone for EMGs at the price they go for as a mod/upgrade for another guitar, but in these guitars which are so affordable for what they offer and how they sound... I can see myself owning some EMGs via harley benton now. Awesome looking and sounding guitars
I really appreciate the comparison video Henning. Even though both shapes are somewhat different I like them both equally. We all know that HB started off like many brands do, making clones of strat, LP, Tele shapes etc. but in particular I love how the sc550 differs from the traditional LP shape. I actually would love HB to lean into that idea more, don't just give me a LP that you've changed just enough to not get sued out the wazoo. Give me a modern interpretation, with more flowing lines, sexier. Don't just copy, improve! Last note, it's strange to me the the custom + is more expensive when it has a PPS (plastic) nut, I know it's a minor detail but would both models having the graphtech nut really have broken the bank?
They sold out way faster than they anticipated. Thomann has put in another larger order however larger order means more time for to build, qc'd, shipped and put in stock.. They said probably back in stock and available late fall/early winter.
I have the SC Custon II with satin finish and an SC-450. So both have the Roswell pickups, and the Custom has Grover tuners. Both have full size Alpha pots. I preferr the Custom, but not by much. They're both great and probably worth twice what Thomann sells them for.
I own several Harley Benton. They all play great. My go to guitars for gigs. 550 is my fav from those two guitars. Btw. I own 6 Gibson guitars too. But I feel the HB play better.
PPS -push-pull-switch? Thanks for a detailed look at these two guitars Henning, I was quite impressed when I heard them on UA-cam, because even though I'm listening(not feeling), all the other guitars I hear on the tube are heard through the same medium, so when one guitar sounds good ( maybe on the same channel even) it IS being judged on the same basis.I always appreciate your clear relevant investigations into equipment and this is why your channel enjoys the success it has.Keep up the good work! (Sound of whip cracking)!!!🏭
I already had a Harley Benton EX-84 and that's a good guitar. But you're right, these new SC's are another level - they really seem to be the flagship model for the brand. Very happy with my 550+ (yes, I used your link). It was an easy choice for me, because the look of the custom just doesn't really tickle my Twinkie, but the 550+ is sexy af. It doesn't quite touch my FGN, but it easily rivals anything other companies put out at twice the price. It's just a fully mature, gig-worthy instrument.
Great video mate! Thanks a lot, it's been really helpful on deciding getting the Custom over the 550. I really liked the punchier, more bass enriched clean and overdrived tone. Bassist and acoustic guitarist here coming back to electric guitar after many years. I'd like to hear your opinion, if you have any over my dc-pa5k Martin acoustic as well.
It would be nice if you weighed each guitar that you reviewed. Most places don't publish weights at all. I realize that each guitar can weight differently but it could be a good indicator of overall guitar weight especially with the different wood types going into each guitar.
Sc550 had much better sound and better note definition. Might be the ceramic pickup in the custom makes the sound muddy, i really don’t like ceramic pickups.
Thomann removes high demand items from their website if they are out of stock for a longer time, to avoid huge backorders. They will put them back on as soon as they receive new stock. You might email Thomann to ask them for an expected delivery date. I had the same issue with a Harley Benton Bass I am interested in ;)
@@KrisperKenvue Let me guess the bass...HBZ-5000 ? I wanted the same bass and it's been removed! I got a Cort B5-Plus instead and couldn't be happier. =D About twice as expensive but worth it.
Ich weiß noch, vor 15 Jahren wolltest du nicht als Toter mit ner HB erwischt werden. Die Dinger waren das pure "Kannst dir wohl keine Epiphone leisten" Meme. Obwohl Epiphone Qualitätstechnisch genauso durchwachsenen Scheiß abgeliefert hat und immer noch liefert. HB hat echt krasse Fortschritte gemacht. DLX Gotoh kommt jetzt bald. War echt überzeugt als ich die im Thomann in der Hand hatte. Und solche Farben kriegt man sonst eher selten. Dieses ewige XYZ Burst langweilt mich. Mechaniken und Stimmstabilität waren immer der Knackpunkt bei HB Gitarren. Scheinen sie mittlerweile einigermaßen in den Griff zu kriegen. Hab hier noch ein paar alte JBs rumliegen aus der Zeit wo ein SH4 nicht 135 Euro gekostet hat sondern 2. Mal gucken, wenn der Sound zu wenig drückt kriegen sie halt (mittlerweile) Boutique Tonabnehmer.
Trust you all the way! Just bought a HB SC450 plus.. ok, its not a sc 550 plus.. no locking tuners no EMG's but such a great guitar for the price! I'm curious how it would hold up to the sc550
It really is a shame when the back of the guitar is more beautiful than the front. With all the videos coming my way regarding these HB models, I feel I need to get one before they increase the prices to ridiculous like Gibson. I owned a Les Paul many years back, but it was too heavy for me for gigging (small female). But, I really want another one and HB is definitely going to be what I get. The LP I used to have cost me just over $600. Now - there's no way I'd pay what Les Pauls are going for.
Thumps up for the video first... ...but let me ask you a most likely pretty "dumb" question: All the HBs you compared has covered EMG pick-ups, but depending on the color scheme some of the HBs have uncovered ones. As someone who played guitar ages ago in the 90ties (acoustic only) and who wants to go back to guitar playing (this time going electric too), is there a noticeable difference in tone or ease of use or doesn't it matter at all at this point? I will most likely end up with a 550+ over a Custom+ due to budgetary reasons (need money for the other stuff) and out of nostalgia, given that 550+ PEF remotely looks like whatever Slash played back then in the 90ties. Cheers
I wonder why these EMGs are soldered ... odd. I like both, but my own crazy desire would aim for a DC-600 Plus with triple EMGs ... or 2 EMGs + 1 P94 style pickup. 500 Plus must have been *very* popular, it's sold out and has gone unlisted @ Thomann SC-Custom Plus is trending up, especially the Black one with Floyd Rose.
After watching the 3 videos + the one with the amarok, wondering if you can compare the SC plus and the amarok. They seems to have almost the same hardware / pickups pu different body shapes :). Thank you as always for the great video and the stunning hoodie :).
The pups at the end of the video... what breed or breeds is the lighter-colored one playing with the ball at the end? We have a new pup at home that we are trying to ID, all we know is “part Husky”... the rest is a mystery
thats because they're sold out. No longer available. Thomann rep did say a larger order has been submitted but probably won't be in stock till late fall/early winter. The sold out faster than they anticipated. They're trying to get them built and back in stock as soon as they can, but its going to take time.
hello and thank you for your video which is as usual of super quality;) I have a question for you and for those who read me, I have the model SC 550 harley benton with the Roswell LAF Alnico-5 and I am asks if it would not be possible to upgrade with EMG 81 and 85 (or other) what do you think? and last question is what is possible easily (assembly) without going through the luthier because I like to tinker myself. thank you anyway for your fabulous job.
I am afraid you have to go to luthier if not for anything else for that hole for battery. Also, when you put active pu in a guitar, wood is not that important any more, so for HB it is great choice imo.
Just curious. I know you two have a close working relationship and Hennings videos are great but one thing he says in his videos doesn't seem like it would apply AT All! 🤔 He says " if you don't like it, you can return it" . Not true if it's an international order is it? I mean , you will not actually accept a return for that reason and refund ( $70 + $70 ) =$140 in both way shipping cost on a $400 guitar because it had flaws that a customer thought it shouldn't for that price range instrument? Right?
Henning, I know you have ties to the brand but I want your honest opinion (if you have experience with both), for a mod platform from someone used to the mayones fit & finish, would I buy one of these or a sire larry carlton model.... or that Stanford you showed a few weeks ago? :eyes: Willing to save up money, don't need instant gratification.
I don’t know the Sire. The Stanford is a Semi Hollow, so it will sound much kore open and very different. Neither will give you a Mayones feel. Those guitars have a touch and feel all of their own and you can’t mod either of the ones you listed to get close to a Mayones. I think the SC550 plus is a great guitar for the money and doesn’t need anything modded on it.
considering that henning doesn't just buy the gear with his own money to try out but usually only features gear that he has a relationship with - and all the shit he talked about the Gibson company (and rightfully so) - I'm gonna go ahead and say its very unlikely you'll ever see anything Epiphone (or Kramer) at Hennings Channel. Other maybe than in a giant shootout filmed directly at Thomann or something, but for that first the Plague had to be defeated.
that's because they're sold out and so it was removed from the site. Although, a guy from Thomann said a larger order has been submitted to get more built and in stock.. but may not be available till late fall/early winter.
@@sese6344 yep sold out fast. A guy at Thomann said another big order has been submitted but for an order that size they don't believe they'll be back in stock until later on in the year. But great guitar.. I can't seem to put mine down
yeah, they guy at Thomann said they sold out way faster than they anticipated.. So a larger order has been submitted but because of that, may not be back in stock till late fall/early winter at the latest
@@drmedwuast yeah but still the same pickups.. just one comes w/ a chrome or nickel cover ( I forget, I have that one ( like the one he shows here) and the other is zebra, but still the same.. but yeah both are completely sold out and taken off the thomann website, which from past experience means they don't know yet when they'll get more available. :( but I was thinking about getting the Paradise flame also.. Guess not.. But originally when you said PAF I thought you were meaning a EMG Paf pups. Which I think these EMG's are very Paf like. I don't know much about EMG, I'm a Seymour guy for the past 10 years and prior to that a Dimarzio guy since the 80s.. I just started getting into EMG's which is the sole reason why I bought this.. I mean Henning sold me on it, but because they come w/ EMG's already installed and for the price.. no brainer...
it is NOT out of date because it doesn't talk about the Custom III, it talks about the Custom + If someone wanted to buy a Custom III and watch this video, then it is their problem because they can't read. Times move and videos were made at a time when the gear was new...
he keeps saying not and lp .. yet that SC-Custom Plus screams out slash lol only reason i want to buy one haha cuz gibson and epi low key hella over rated much more better guitars than those for a better price but yeah that color reminds me of a slash model guitar
Harley Bentons Qualität hat sich bekanntlich sehr gesteigert, meine CST 24 ist fehlerlos und super bespielbar. Trotzdem habe ich mich in Sachen Les Paul anders entschieden, an die Korpusform von HB und anderen Herstellern kann ich mich einfach nicht gewöhnen, der Headstock geht ja noch, aber die Korpusform geht ja mal garnicht, weder das spitze Horn noch der Bogen links, wo die Korpuskante auf den Hals trifft. Ist bei anderen Herstellern ja ähnlich, so gefällt mir auch Epiphones Headstock nicht. Hab mich deshalb an eine Chibson gewagt, 230 € inkl. Einfuhrabgaben u. Versand bezahlt. Die Holzqualität und dessen Verarbeitung sind ok, nicht schlechter als bei Epiphone. Die Hardware lässt z.T. zu wünschen übrig, die Tuner habe ich gegen Gotohs getauscht. Die Pickups klingen überraschenderweise für mich als Wohnzimmergitarrist gut, hatte eigentlich mit deren Austausch gerechnet. Auch das Scratchboard war so naja, hab es gegen ein Göldo getauscht. Jetzt habe ich eine für mich gut klingende (ähnlich Epiphone) Les Paul Custom mit den richtigen Formen - sogar mit dem "richtigen" Schriftzug... 😉 was aber nicht meine Hauptintention war und ist, sondern - siehe oben! Insgesamt habe ich ca. 300 € bezahlt. Würde ich nochmal so machen.
I like aestethics of 550 more. But soundwise, especially cleans, custom was „rounder”. 550 sounded like more trebbelish. Both sounded really nice, there is big difference in sound (good excuse - honey, I have to buy both) but i liked sound of custom one more. Damn it would be so much rasowe if they would put the same pickups in both xD
The pickups aren't "half" the cost of the guitar. Those pickup sets have a wholesale and a retail price. We're seeing the retail, which has to be at least 20% higher than wholesale. So they're likely a third the cost of the guitar at most.
After you pointed out the way the upper front of the guitar blended into the lower front part of the guitar body in a nice fluid curve,.... Once you see it, you can't unsee it! I don't even want a Gibson Les Paul anymore. It will have to be some version of Harley Benton's SC line...
I bought the 550 Plus emg, thanks to Henning. I ordered it and it arrived at the doorstep in less than 72 hours from Germany to Alaska.. That was faster than anyone else has ever delivered a guitar here in the states.. I've had it nearly 2 weeks now and Its really growing on me. I actually really like the fat 55's. Very versatile pups. The guitar looks, feels and sounds amazing. Love it. Thanks Henning.. I thank you cause because of you I have a few guitars in my collection I got just because of your reviews/demos. My wife thanks you very sarcastically though.... :) However, I'm not seeing the 550 plug EMG listed on the Thomann site anymore.. ??
I think its faster to send it directly from asia to alaska instead of germany XD
As always nothing is overlooked, even the unintended puns. Lol! Thanks, always entertained and as well informed about reviewed products.
Interesting video - thank you!
I have just found your channel now through other US chap about CGS Mark - you know what!
Maybe 5 weeks ago I watched Mark's CGS video about the SC-Custom and his video convinced me it was 'another' guitar for me...
I totally agreed with him about price quality and also the possible mod needed. i.e. The 2 volume potentiometers changed into a Master Volume (in place of Neck vol) and a Balance.
So, not really knowing about Mark, I emailed him asking if he did the mod, as it really needs it to make it perfect.
Well I found out about him only today!
I did notice he did not put any videos out from a long time and did not have time lately to search his channel.
I actually cried and I did not know him, because I though I found a similar guy as I am...
👍🎸🎶🤘🏻
I always wanted an LP. Finally I managed to buy a second hand SC 450 plus. And I am happy.
Thats a really nice one too.
Now all you need to do is... Play some more ;)
@@damasterkarej or moore
@@twanahamawandi6546 That's what I prefer too.
There are only two guitar intervew channels I trust. Your's is one of them. Holy crap! My phone is in stereo!!!
Your reviews are some of the best on YT. I appreciate that you don't blow smoke up our ass
about the quality of the guitars. Thank you brother be safe peace
😎✌🤪💨💨💨🌅🌈🐻🐢
Have been waiting for this comparison after I already watched the individual videos. It is a valuable addition! Thx a lot for providing it. Though it makes my decision not an easier one. Though I like the form factor and sound of the SC-550+ EMG pickups, I really do like the finish of the SC-Custom+ in Trans Brown Flame. And I have not yet come to a conclusion about the overall sound of the EMG Retro Active Hot 70 pickups. As the SC-550+ isn't available anymore for the time being, I think I give the Custom+ a try. And if I really do not like it, there is always Thomann's return policy.
On the clean strums, I'm definitely getting a bigger, deeper sound on the SC Custom (the one with 3 knobs) with more prominent low end and more size in general, and a tad more precision especially high end on the SC550 but thinner overall.
I’ve got the Harley Benton SC Custom ll FR Vintage Black , it’s my favorite of all my guitars , sounds good and easy to play
As always, a fantastic review of 2 guitars with 'no holds barred'. This is exactly what we want to hear, the good AND the bad. Thank you for doing these reviews buddy!
great demo! I think these guitars really open up EMGs as an option for me too. I probably wouldn't have gone for EMGs at the price they go for as a mod/upgrade for another guitar, but in these guitars which are so affordable for what they offer and how they sound... I can see myself owning some EMGs via harley benton now. Awesome looking and sounding guitars
That Fat 55's that these come with are very versatile.. they're not like the EMG's that people generally think of. These are great PAF sounding pups
@@ryant3600 Yeah they sound great
I got one of the SC-550's and it's exactly what he says. I am really impressed.
I agree with you about the SC550+, it really sounds better. The best would be a Sc-Custom shape with the Sc-550 pickups (and sounds)
But both have same pickups, right?!
No.....the 550 plus has EMG Fat 55 .....and the Custom has the EMG Hot 70 set !!!!!
I really appreciate the comparison video Henning. Even though both shapes are somewhat different I like them both equally. We all know that HB started off like many brands do, making clones of strat, LP, Tele shapes etc. but in particular I love how the sc550 differs from the traditional LP shape. I actually would love HB to lean into that idea more, don't just give me a LP that you've changed just enough to not get sued out the wazoo. Give me a modern interpretation, with more flowing lines, sexier. Don't just copy, improve!
Last note, it's strange to me the the custom + is more expensive when it has a PPS (plastic) nut, I know it's a minor detail but would both models having the graphtech nut really have broken the bank?
if anyone cares the EMG Fat 55 and the Hot 70 sets have the same neck pickup. The bridge is different: Alnico V vs Ceramic.
Thanks Henning! I have now decided to buy the shit out of the SC 550 Plus EMG!
hmm the only issue is, that the 550+ isn't available on the website any longer ... but I love this review
For a while allready...
I noticed this a few weeks ago...very strange, especially when it appears they promoted the heck out of them.
They sold out way faster than they anticipated. Thomann has put in another larger order however larger order means more time for to build, qc'd, shipped and put in stock.. They said probably back in stock and available late fall/early winter.
@@ryant3600 yikes, good time to buy the custom then, haha
They got the mk 2 version in the 550 I'm pretty sure now at least
Yes, I do trust your opinions Henning. Both look like great choices. Thanks for all you do Henning!!! Have a great day.!!!!
Just ordered an SC custom plus emg fr ! It's the weirdest amalgamation of specs I've ever seen in a guitar and I can't wait to have it ^_^
I'll be honest: I don't want either guitar half as badly as I want that hoodie that Henning is wearing.
He's providing a link in the description. But be aware: You may spend more money there than you planned.
I have the SC Custon II with satin finish and an SC-450. So both have the Roswell pickups, and the Custom has Grover tuners. Both have full size Alpha pots. I preferr the Custom, but not by much. They're both great and probably worth twice what Thomann sells them for.
Thank you Pauly very good review. I like the Custom plus EMG
I own several Harley Benton. They all play great. My go to guitars for gigs. 550 is my fav from those two guitars. Btw. I own 6 Gibson guitars too. But I feel the HB play better.
maybe its you who play good
Gibson Justice League has left the channel XD
SC Custom, I just love that finish.
I went for the Custom plus myself but nothing in it they are both awesome and sure I'd be happy with either.
Perpetually Predictable Pauly ppp lol. Thanks Henning! For being entertaining while educating us on the difference between these 2 very nice guitars!
Nice review,follow your channel always get honesty,thanks😉
❤😂 marvelous works Monsieur !! Merci ! Thankfully ..
PPS -push-pull-switch? Thanks for a detailed look at these two guitars Henning, I was quite impressed when I heard them on UA-cam, because even though I'm listening(not feeling), all the other guitars I hear on the tube are heard through the same medium, so when one guitar sounds good ( maybe on the same channel even) it IS being judged on the same basis.I always appreciate your clear relevant investigations into equipment and this is why your channel enjoys the success it has.Keep up the good work! (Sound of whip cracking)!!!🏭
I already had a Harley Benton EX-84 and that's a good guitar. But you're right, these new SC's are another level - they really seem to be the flagship model for the brand. Very happy with my 550+ (yes, I used your link). It was an easy choice for me, because the look of the custom just doesn't really tickle my Twinkie, but the 550+ is sexy af. It doesn't quite touch my FGN, but it easily rivals anything other companies put out at twice the price. It's just a fully mature, gig-worthy instrument.
Ok I'm sold I'm getting the sc550. B stock. Of course
This week I suddenly wondered why HB hasn't a LP with a Peter Green mod (reverse magnet/out of phase).
Great video mate! Thanks a lot, it's been really helpful on deciding getting the Custom over the 550. I really liked the punchier, more bass enriched clean and overdrived tone. Bassist and acoustic guitarist here coming back to electric guitar after many years. I'd like to hear your opinion, if you have any over my dc-pa5k Martin acoustic as well.
The 550 definitely sounds better ! More open and articulate.
Thank you again for a good program.
It would be nice if you weighed each guitar that you reviewed. Most places don't publish weights at all. I realize that each guitar can weight differently but it could be a good indicator of overall guitar weight especially with the different wood types going into each guitar.
it's pretty heavy but it's a great guitar
I would choose the Custom, cause of Pipi :):):)
I'm glad they switched the fretboard wood. The "roseacer" (aka blackified maple) on the SC-550 I had was awful.
The custom is based on LTD/ESP body and electronics
Sc550 had much better sound and better note definition. Might be the ceramic pickup in the custom makes the sound muddy, i really don’t like ceramic pickups.
There doesn't seem to be any 550+ available. Your link for that guitar goes to the main site.
Thomann removes high demand items from their website if they are out of stock for a longer time, to avoid huge backorders. They will put them back on as soon as they receive new stock. You might email Thomann to ask them for an expected delivery date. I had the same issue with a Harley Benton Bass I am interested in ;)
@@KrisperKenvue Man glad I got mine 2 weeks ago then. It's a great guitar. I was surprised how good the Fat 55 EMG's sound.. Very PAF like.
@@KrisperKenvue Let me guess the bass...HBZ-5000 ? I wanted the same bass and it's been removed! I got a Cort B5-Plus instead and couldn't be happier. =D About twice as expensive but worth it.
@@joshikus Close... it's the BZ-4000 NT I'm interested in. 4 Strings is enough for me ;)
@@KrisperKenvue Ah, so close! Well I hope you're able to pick one up soon man!
Ich weiß noch, vor 15 Jahren wolltest du nicht als Toter mit ner HB erwischt werden. Die Dinger waren das pure "Kannst dir wohl keine Epiphone leisten" Meme. Obwohl Epiphone Qualitätstechnisch genauso durchwachsenen Scheiß abgeliefert hat und immer noch liefert.
HB hat echt krasse Fortschritte gemacht. DLX Gotoh kommt jetzt bald. War echt überzeugt als ich die im Thomann in der Hand hatte. Und solche Farben kriegt man sonst eher selten. Dieses ewige XYZ Burst langweilt mich. Mechaniken und Stimmstabilität waren immer der Knackpunkt bei HB Gitarren. Scheinen sie mittlerweile einigermaßen in den Griff zu kriegen.
Hab hier noch ein paar alte JBs rumliegen aus der Zeit wo ein SH4 nicht 135 Euro gekostet hat sondern 2. Mal gucken, wenn der Sound zu wenig drückt kriegen sie halt (mittlerweile) Boutique Tonabnehmer.
8:20 LOL! Nice pun!
Trust you all the way! Just bought a HB SC450 plus.. ok, its not a sc 550 plus.. no locking tuners no EMG's but such a great guitar for the price! I'm curious how it would hold up to the sc550
Which feels better to play for you the LP or 550+????
By the way, does any one of you fine gentlemen knows how many guitars one can own before calling a psychiatrist? Hobby musician.
Asking for a friend 😁
The answer is easy:
One more.
Every guitar player needs same number of guitars....just one more!
They sure do look good.
It really is a shame when the back of the guitar is more beautiful than the front.
With all the videos coming my way regarding these HB models, I feel I need to get one before they increase the prices to ridiculous like Gibson. I owned a Les Paul many years back, but it was too heavy for me for gigging (small female). But, I really want another one and HB is definitely going to be what I get. The LP I used to have cost me just over $600. Now - there's no way I'd pay what Les Pauls are going for.
Thumps up for the video first...
...but let me ask you a most likely pretty "dumb" question: All the HBs you compared has covered EMG pick-ups, but depending on the color scheme some of the HBs have uncovered ones. As someone who played guitar ages ago in the 90ties (acoustic only) and who wants to go back to guitar playing (this time going electric too), is there a noticeable difference in tone or ease of use or doesn't it matter at all at this point?
I will most likely end up with a 550+ over a Custom+ due to budgetary reasons (need money for the other stuff) and out of nostalgia, given that 550+ PEF remotely looks like whatever Slash played back then in the 90ties.
Cheers
I wondered when you'd get hold of these. Brand new video.........just took the plastic off!!
I wonder why these EMGs are soldered ... odd. I like both, but my own crazy desire would aim for a DC-600 Plus with triple EMGs ... or 2 EMGs + 1 P94 style pickup.
500 Plus must have been *very* popular, it's sold out and has gone unlisted @ Thomann
SC-Custom Plus is trending up, especially the Black one with Floyd Rose.
After watching the 3 videos + the one with the amarok, wondering if you can compare the SC plus and the amarok. They seems to have almost the same hardware / pickups pu different body shapes :).
Thank you as always for the great video and the stunning hoodie :).
Add 24 frets on thay custom, dark fretboatd, coil split. And a gigbag.
Man you have to start selling some of those killer shirts. At least put a link in the description. Oh, the guitars👍
there is a link in the description
Did you edit and reupload this video recently? Only, I'm sure I've watched it before.
I didn’t
Fat or hot, which one you think we gonna pick? Honestly I’ll take the thick shapless fat loaded one, at least for now. As It most resembles myself.
I like the 550 better. Clearer, more articulate with better string definition in the chords.
17:00 Both what feel like what now!?
Or would be cool à Charvel like HB with 80’s colors and stripes and stainless steel frets
The pups at the end of the video... what breed or breeds is the lighter-colored one playing with the ball at the end? We have a new pup at home that we are trying to ID, all we know is “part Husky”... the rest is a mystery
I don't know what's wrong with me,but can't find the 550+ going through your links any where???
thats because they're sold out. No longer available. Thomann rep did say a larger order has been submitted but probably won't be in stock till late fall/early winter. The sold out faster than they anticipated. They're trying to get them built and back in stock as soon as they can, but its going to take time.
the weight!
hello and thank you for your video which is as usual of super quality;) I have a question for you and for those who read me, I have the model SC 550 harley benton with the Roswell LAF Alnico-5 and I am asks if it would not be possible to upgrade with EMG 81 and 85 (or other) what do you think? and last question is what is possible easily (assembly) without going through the luthier because I like to tinker myself.
thank you anyway for your fabulous job.
I am afraid you have to go to luthier if not for anything else for that hole for battery. Also, when you put active pu in a guitar, wood is not that important any more, so for HB it is great choice imo.
@@navigatori9797 thanks ;)
well my friend it's not because you don't use the 22nd fret that nobody does and don't need an axcess heel !
Henning! TE-90FLT Blue Blast vs TE-90FLT VW Deluxe Series? I prefer lighter. Referal code? Vor gesunkait!
Awesome shirt!! Where is the link? Great review!! Wish I saw one of your reviews on my fusion before I bought.
Link in the description
How dare you questioning Bene 😂
soooorry! It shall never happen again!!!! Haaaaa
Just curious. I know you two have a close working relationship and Hennings videos are great but one thing he says in his videos doesn't seem like it would apply AT All! 🤔
He says " if you don't like it, you can return it" . Not true if it's an international order is it? I mean , you will not actually accept a return for that reason and refund ( $70 + $70 ) =$140 in both way shipping cost on a $400 guitar because it had flaws that a customer thought it shouldn't for that price range instrument? Right?
Henning, I know you have ties to the brand but I want your honest opinion (if you have experience with both), for a mod platform from someone used to the mayones fit & finish, would I buy one of these or a sire larry carlton model.... or that Stanford you showed a few weeks ago? :eyes: Willing to save up money, don't need instant gratification.
I don’t know the Sire. The Stanford is a Semi Hollow, so it will sound much kore open and very different.
Neither will give you a Mayones feel. Those guitars have a touch and feel all of their own and you can’t mod either of the ones you listed to get close to a Mayones.
I think the SC550 plus is a great guitar for the money and doesn’t need anything modded on it.
I just bought a SC550+ And it is on B/O, Does anyone know the wait period on these?
I’m buying the Custom purely out of spite.
Maybe next a comparison with an epiphone?
considering that henning doesn't just buy the gear with his own money to try out but usually only features gear that he has a relationship with - and all the shit he talked about the Gibson company (and rightfully so) - I'm gonna go ahead and say its very unlikely you'll ever see anything Epiphone (or Kramer) at Hennings Channel. Other maybe than in a giant shootout filmed directly at Thomann or something, but for that first the Plague had to be defeated.
I agree!
The link is not leading to the SC550 Plus. And I could find it on the Thomann website. Something wrong?
Sold out
Uh! The SC550 Plus direct-link is not working...
that's because they're sold out and so it was removed from the site. Although, a guy from Thomann said a larger order has been submitted to get more built and in stock.. but may not be available till late fall/early winter.
Is there difference between sc550+ and sc550 ?
There is no 550+ only without plus
Dont want to buy anything with a minus
plus has EMG retroactive Fat 55's and locking tuners. thats the biggest difference oh and I believe the Plus is built by Cort in Indonesia.
@@ryant3600 thx
Too bad it seems sold out everywhere ... only 550s
@@sese6344 yep sold out fast. A guy at Thomann said another big order has been submitted but for an order that size they don't believe they'll be back in stock until later on in the year.
But great guitar.. I can't seem to put mine down
Are rosewell and EMG humbuckers soundwise different? I can't hear a big difference.
huge difference.. I have both and the EMG Fat 55's sound way better and clearer.
@@ryant3600 thanks, Ryan!
SC550+ is currently soldout ... I guess it speaks volumes by itself :)
yeah, they guy at Thomann said they sold out way faster than they anticipated.. So a larger order has been submitted but because of that, may not be back in stock till late fall/early winter at the latest
The SC550+ is not possible to buy anymore :(
I think they're sold out I think they remove guitars that are out of stock and they don't know yet when they'll get more in stock
Best upgrade to HP42? HPH2+?
Have HP42, chime rear thick front P90.
Emg it ?
Still waiting for your video on the PAF one
which one?
@@ryant3600 harley benton sc-550 plus emg paf
@@drmedwuast Oh the Paradise Flame.. gotcha. They're sold out too now. Same exact guitar as the 550 he's showing here now, just different color.
@@ryant3600 Not exact same guitar, it has zebra PAFs
(I own one, just wanna hear him talk about it hehe)
@@drmedwuast yeah but still the same pickups.. just one comes w/ a chrome or nickel cover ( I forget, I have that one ( like the one he shows here) and the other is zebra, but still the same.. but yeah both are completely sold out and taken off the thomann website, which from past experience means they don't know yet when they'll get more available. :( but I was thinking about getting the Paradise flame also.. Guess not.. But originally when you said PAF I thought you were meaning a EMG Paf pups. Which I think these EMG's are very Paf like. I don't know much about EMG, I'm a Seymour guy for the past 10 years and prior to that a Dimarzio guy since the 80s.. I just started getting into EMG's which is the sole reason why I bought this.. I mean Henning sold me on it, but because they come w/ EMG's already installed and for the price.. no brainer...
Moody vocals
So gibson vs esp
This vid is way out of date now. check out the goldtop custom 3
it is NOT out of date because it doesn't talk about the Custom III, it talks about the Custom +
If someone wanted to buy a Custom III and watch this video, then it is their problem because they can't read.
Times move and videos were made at a time when the gear was new...
Looking at the title I thought, that this is a give away ...
he keeps saying not and lp ..
yet that SC-Custom Plus screams out slash lol
only reason i want to buy one haha cuz gibson and epi low key hella over rated much more better guitars than those for a better price but yeah that color reminds me of a slash model guitar
It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that the custom is a ESP EC copy, and the 550 is a Gibson les Paul copy
Harley Bentons Qualität hat sich bekanntlich sehr gesteigert, meine CST 24 ist fehlerlos und super bespielbar. Trotzdem habe ich mich in Sachen Les Paul anders entschieden, an die Korpusform von HB und anderen Herstellern kann ich mich einfach nicht gewöhnen, der Headstock geht ja noch, aber die Korpusform geht ja mal garnicht, weder das spitze Horn noch der Bogen links, wo die Korpuskante auf den Hals trifft. Ist bei anderen Herstellern ja ähnlich, so gefällt mir auch Epiphones Headstock nicht. Hab mich deshalb an eine Chibson gewagt, 230 € inkl. Einfuhrabgaben u. Versand bezahlt. Die Holzqualität und dessen Verarbeitung sind ok, nicht schlechter als bei Epiphone. Die Hardware lässt z.T. zu wünschen übrig, die Tuner habe ich gegen Gotohs getauscht. Die Pickups klingen überraschenderweise für mich als Wohnzimmergitarrist gut, hatte eigentlich mit deren Austausch gerechnet. Auch das Scratchboard war so naja, hab es gegen ein Göldo getauscht. Jetzt habe ich eine für mich gut klingende (ähnlich Epiphone) Les Paul Custom mit den richtigen Formen - sogar mit dem "richtigen" Schriftzug... 😉 was aber nicht meine Hauptintention war und ist, sondern - siehe oben! Insgesamt habe ich ca. 300 € bezahlt. Würde ich nochmal so machen.
I like aestethics of 550 more. But soundwise, especially cleans, custom was „rounder”. 550 sounded like more trebbelish. Both sounded really nice, there is big difference in sound (good excuse - honey, I have to buy both) but i liked sound of custom one more. Damn it would be so much rasowe if they would put the same pickups in both xD
Where do I get the coronavirus shirt?
His weird shirts are usually from Mr.Gugu, link should be in the description.
I AM JOB!!!
IIIIIIIII
AAAAAAMM
JJJJOOOOBBB
The pickups aren't "half" the cost of the guitar. Those pickup sets have a wholesale and a retail price. We're seeing the retail, which has to be at least 20% higher than wholesale. So they're likely a third the cost of the guitar at most.
Not much difference in the mix to me
neither, one with Fishman Fluence and jumbo stainless frets
I'm not even sure if there are any companies that make guitars at that price point with real stainless steel frets though 🤔.