At 14:44 when he starts playing I immediately forgot I was watching a "guitar comparison" video and instead feel like I'm watching an "Amazing guitarist you have to hear to believe!" video.
You said it very clear, the one that inspires you in the best one for you, apart from brands and prices. We have to stop thinking about every freaking detail and start feeling more. Great channel! good playing 🤘
Great comparison .Tonally I guess the Gibson just wins but for a fraction of the price Those Harley's always seem to deliver. Small cosmetic details aside they Just always seem to give you a great sounding and playable instrument (7 so far) .I just wished they had been around fifty odd years ago.Also Lemuel Fantastic Hands.
Ηm.. indeed so. But the Chinese 50 years ago were just reading Mao Zedong's little red book and cared nothing about making guitars, so we poor teenager aspiring guitarists had to make do with sh!tty Japanese replicas such as Columbus and Satellite etc. Then the Japanese realised that they could also make excellent expensive guitars too and the rest is history.
If you love a guitar model and it's brand, having heard it your entire life on record after record, there's an attachment already built to that guitar. Yes, it's in your head but also in your feelings and music is feeling. Getting inspired by an instrument is really so important so if Gibson inspires you and the instrument itself is great then the Gibson would be the go-to guitar. Nice video and playing.
Mate you've earned a subscriber, reviews like this are answering the real questions ;) you sound like Michael Caine sorry if you get sick of hearing that :)
Absolutely love your playing 👍 made both guitars sound great❤ I’ve gigged super expensive guitars and dirt cheap starter guitars and as my luthier friend says “doesn’t matter what it says on the headstock” Nicely done 👌
UPDATE: I keep returning to this video because the playing is so great and the guitars sound so damn good. This time, I listened with the headphones, and I gotta say, I was blown away by how good the HB sounded. Tremendous bang for the buck!. I will be seriously looking into picking one up..
Excellent review and amazing blues playing. Your honest views are really appreciated. I'm definitely buying one of these. I play blues. Are you london based? Would love to watch you play live.
I like the mod to your Les Paul, happy for you to aquire one. The playing was great,love to hear them strings bending. I don't consider myself much of a player but I got a HB 35 plus, I freaking love it. I also have a PRS SE, I would rather have the Harley Benton any day,plays great and looks great. Thanks for the video comparison, keep up the great stuff ! 🎸🔥👍
Allen, thanks for your feedback ,you mentioned the HB 35, oh yes that what turned me on to Harley Benton I love that guitar too, I will do a proper demo review of that guitar soon. Thanks again.
The HB sounds amazing for the price, I also own a sc550 mk1 and love it, great out of the box, but after a few mods it’s a killer lp. Love you playing style Very Cool
Lemuel, your video showed up randomly on my feed. I’ve never had a Harley Benton, but I very much relate to when you spoke of starting your playing back in the day and the guitars that were available. I too have gotten older and have been able to get some guitars I’ve always wanted… the first being a Gibson les Paul. Like yours, mine isn’t perfect. You can’t unsee the dimple on the neck binding on the 5th fret, but I have really bonded with mine and love it. You seem like a really genuine guy who has a respectable passion for guitar like I do. Thanks for the nice video. I look forward to keeping up with you in the future.
I enjoyed listening to you play. I could tell as soon as I heard the sweet tone of the Gibson and saw your face when it hit you that you prefer the Gibson. Doesn't matter what the name is on the headstock if it inspires you. Again great playing and thank you for sharing.
I gotta say, there is a massive difference in feel between the necks of bound and unbound boards. I actually prefer unbound necks if I just go by feel. And the frets on those two guitars are very different. The Harley Benton’s frets are quite a bit larger than the Gibson’s, and the material feels quite different. Stainless steel takes getting used to, and some people never quite bond with them. Both sounded good though 😎
Great video and brilliant playing man 👍 I'm thinking about taking up learning the guitar and as I haven't got the money for a Gibson I'm sold on the Harley Benton after hearing you play. I'm under no illusions I'll be playing like you do anytime soon but I know at least I'll have a guitar that is capable of walking the walk so if it sounds terrible that's on me. Thanks. This video has helped me quite a lot because I have been looking at other budget guitars and this seems to be right for what I'm looking for. All the best for the future ✌️
@@lem432 Thanks. I ordered the SC-550 II BCF today. Can't wait for it to arrive and open it. I've seen your unboxing video before Christmas (Your face was priceless btw) and I can't wait to get that feeling 👍
Hi Lemuel . I am also a guitar player and have been for the last 60 years . Just wanted to say how much I enjoy your videos . I like the way you present your gear , and your playing is very good . I am a former Gibson guy , before I switched to Fenders . I sold my Gibsons , and after a few years I replaced them with Epiphones ( I am retired and money is tight ).because I missed them . I am in the states , but have never played a Harley Benton . How do suppose they compare to Epiphones ?
Hi Kenny, thanks for your feedback and comments. Regarding how the epiphone compares the Harley Benton, There are very close in terms of Qc, however Harley Benton is much cheaper for the same price and quality, so you can get both. 😀
Thanks Lemuel. Useful vid. FWIW I have (amongst others) a HB TE-52 tele clone - £132, and a Fender Elite Strat (£1800 in 2016). The cheap tele gets played more. It's not as well made, but it's good enough and I like it. All about what works for you. Put 10-52s on the HB, oil the fretboard and polish the frets and you'll close the gap, but the Gibson pickups were simply sounding better, richer, more dynamic. Maybe need to adjust the pickup heights on the HB to optimise them? Helps a lot.
I have an Active custom with Grovers as standard a 450 plus and a 450, the 450 came with a damaged switch that i replaced and i also replaced the pups and tuners for wilcos, they all play and feel incredible, so much so i am looking to buy another. All 3 came to the grand sum of £495, i sold my les paul std to pay bills accumulated during lockdown and i do not miss it a jot.
Your playing sold me the HB after about 30 seconds. Really nice. I have two HB guitars already, one of which I assembled from one of their kits. I quite fancy this model.
Been eyeing a HB SC-550 II, that's how I got here. First thank you for the review, my decision is made, that's my next axe for sure! also, absolutely enjoyed your playing, blown away! I'm 48 & just started playing around last Xmas and you played exactly how I have set my goals to learn. Thank you for the inspiration! 👍🏻🙂👏🏻👏🏻
I am so happy for you. I appreciate your feedback, it's means a lot to me. My HB 550 2 is a keeper for me because it's getting better and better the more I play it. You won't be disappointed. Cheers 🍻
Thanks Lemuel appreciate your comparison.. super playing! just love the way you your soul comes through! thats what it should be about.. keep on on doing it brother!
Gorgeous licks. At one point I forgot I was watching a demonstration and just enjoying the jam. When you can get a guitar like that for that price, it makes you wonder how much the Gibson/Fender names are really worth. If you can find them, you should also try Firefly. They make copies of Strat, Tele, LP, SG and ES-335....but at a fraction of the price of Gibson/Fender. I have a Firefly 338 (ES-335 knockoff). She's a beautiful blueburst/on black with white binding and ivory inlays that plays easy and has nice tone/sustain. I bought it 2 years ago for about $250 US.
Cheers for comments and feedback, I did try to get my hands on a Fire fly, not easy, but when I come across one, I might be tempted 😀 Thanks again for your feedback 👍
I enjoyed your comparison review, I think the HB SC 550 punches way above its weight and gives the Gibson a very close run for the money! I personally bought the HB SC 450 plus Vintage series with coil split 5 years back and was well pleased.
Love my Harley Benton SC-450 P90 GT Classic Series, sounds incredible. Only took a few months to really play in nicely. Love your sound man and love your playing and content. I've subbed and wish you well with the channel.
Loved your video, Lemi. Another working class guy here with a passion for guitars, but no millionaire, so looking for value for money when picking up instruments. This is seriously one of the best reviews I've seen in quite a while. No BS; just down to earth great information and advice from an enthusiastic, great player with a passion for the art. Love the Gibson, by the way, and the HB for the money. It is interesting what you can find these days in the way of value for money guitars. I have an Epi Les Paul Plus Top Pro which I really love playing and a few Fenders. I'm looking for another twin bucker guitar at the moment for one of my boys, so found this video very useful. Just sub'ed and look forward to more of the same. All the best :)
Your playing is brilliant. Very varied licks and a cool vibrato. I own the faded les Paul and like it. My favourite was the Vintage lemon drop but i had to sell.too heavy for my dodgy worn out shoulders. Any live work or recorded stuff ?
I and my brother review guitars. We've done quite a few Harley Benton guitars. We have never done a Gibson (too expensive) since nobody gives us free guitars. We wouldn't accept them either. We like to keep ourselves honest. This was a great review and comparison. Liked, and subscribed!
I've never thought much about all the precise little details. If it feels good, it feels good. The ones that I've built or modified are my favorites. The whole game about brands is a different subject entirely to me. They have all their marketing schemes and stockholders. Crap that has nothing to do with guitars. I like the channel! Good work!
Great honest soul in your playing. I'm thinking of getting the HB 550, its a beauty, I love those big stainless steel frets, no more taking it in for crowning. Thank You for this demo.
Both sound great and pretty premium… Gibson pips the HB tho on tone imo. Edit:- that‘s some really nice improv and very melodic and interesting phrasing.
A massive congratulations 🎊 and welcome to my channel 👏 At the time I was using a peavey classic 30 Watts valve amp with reverb, and digitech screamin blues pedal. Cheers for your feedback 👍
Can tell Albert King is an influence. Great playing. Love my Harley Benton SC-450. She's not perfect but for sub $200 it's better than guitars I've spent 4-5X as much on. Had it now 5 years, still play it often. I'll never get rid of it. All stock.
Wonderful playing and excellent comparison review. As you were playing the Gibson after you played the HB, I thought the Gibson's got that "certain something," a richness, character and authenticity in the tone that was somehow not there with the HB. I think it's that Gibson pedigree and well over a century of making guitars that makes the difference. It shows that it's not about the appointments, but the heart and soul of the guitar. I do think the 10's have a fatter tone than the 9's as well. I have always liked the 490 pickups that are on that LP, even better than the Burstbuckers they put on the far more expensive Standard, And jolly good show picking up that Gibson for around 500 lbs. What a steal!
Great review , nice playing , i thought that when you played the Les Paul you definitely were playing with more feel which just as you said you felt more of a connection with the Les Paul mind you the HB sounded great . I bought a Klon pedal & i agree they sound great . Great clip , keep em coming , thanks .
Nice Playing Lemuel, good solid review - you appeared to dig playing the Gibson more than the HB! The HB sounds great certainly for the money, but you can tell the difference in tone even through the phone. The Gibson sounds richer, more full. I have a white 2013 Gibson LPJ which is kinda similar to yours, but it has a 50's maple neck and 498t in the bridge, it's no frills like yours and I love it, I have posher Gibsons, but I keep going back to the LPJ - You don't need bling for it to be cool, infact i'd say they are kinda cooler. Thanks for the vid! - Steve
Beutiful playing man, for sure the Gibson is much more expensive, but as i got 23 Harley Benton Guitars, my favourite is the Harley Benton,..Thanks man and Much love to you 🥰🎸
I noticed that you have your Gibson top wrapped and that does make a difference in the feel. The same can be said for a guitar that is broken in vs one that is brand-spanking new. Both of them look great, that top on the HB is gorgeous!
Really enjoyed and feel inspired by your video and pace. And you’re right, you seemed to play a bit more freely and organically on the Gibson with some really nice, tasty licks bro, although both guitars sounded very good to my ear. I do prefer 10's though I think they give you a better tone. I totally relate to everything you said in terms quality and bonding with an instrument and the spiritual elements of a guitar etc etc.... Looking forward to your next video. Thank you.... from San Antonio, TX.
I have a 1991 Gibson SG Special, of which I am the original owner. It was my first “real” electric guitar, which I bought because it had the sound and playability I was looking for, and was in my price range. This was before I knew much about guitars; other than the basics, like what a Strat was, what a Telecaster was, and what a Les Paul was. My SG has 490R/490T pickups, which sound amazing. I added pickup covers to them, in 2012, which gave them a more harmonically rich sound. I also have another Gibson with 490R/490T pickups - which is my 2012 Les Paul Jr. Special Humbucker. That guitar also sounds amazing. The 490R on that guitar almost has a P90/single coil tone. I highly recommend that model of Les Paul - as they are quite affordable no-frills rock machines, that play like a dream. I also have a 2009 Gibson Les Paul Traditional, which was my first Les Paul, and a 2014 Gibson Les Paul Traditional Pro II 50s. The Trad Pro II were a Guitar Center exclusive, here in the States. But Anderton’s, and Thomann got some of them. They are exceptional guitars, which come with a 50s or 60s neck - your choice.
Sir. You touched so many important aspects of guitar philosophy in such a gentle way. I'm professional musician for like 25 years. I had some HB and they are fantastic entry level guitars. It's a mistery how they are able to deliver such a great value for such a small cost. I'm from Poland and we could only pray for such a great instruments in 70' 80' 90's. All we had was horrible guitars of local or eastern Germany production. Western instruments were worth like few months salaries... Today if you want to start your adventure with music you can pay 1/4 of month salary and grab fantastic, playable instrument. It's a miracle. Having said that if you got step higher and had a chance to play Gibsons, Fenders etc. there is a place where another story begins. For a professional musician is a choice of trust. HB are great, playable instruments but I can't imagine to fall in love with them. There is something missing. That invisible element of heritage and knowledge. BUT in a few years or decades will will have a lot of great musicians infected to music by HB instruments. Great!
Both guitars sounded great because you can play your ass off. That's really the most important thing. You play like you were born and raised over here with us. I can hear your British accent. But we're both made of the same stuff so it ain't no surprise you got the feel. Peace from Texas, USA.
1st, being from the Deep South in the US... When the accent came out😂. Hehe sorry it got tho!! I have a HB lemon drop i bought in 2017 i think.... i still love it. Ive upgraded everything but the wood. And its still cheaper than a upper tier Epiphone. I put a$300 set of lollar imperial low wound pickups. Locking tuners. Bone nut.everything lol. But Brother you make that HB 550 sing!! You cant beat them.... but we still want that Big GIBSON on a headstock. Now you have both, the best of both worlds!! And a New Subscriber!!!
Lol, brother from the deep south, thanks for subscribing to my channel and the accent thing that's so funny 😁 man you were serious about your upgrades, you're a legend 😄 😀 cheers for the feedback.
I am watching this after I already bought and fell in love with my Harley Benton Les Paul just out of interest what your impression of it is. But I stayed for the playing.
I found your videio because I am tempted to get the HB SC550 or the SC-25th. My HB fusion-T tele is a great guitar and made me realise after 40 years of playing just how much "budget" guitars have improved. Incidentally I also have the left handed version of that Gibson model (Les Paul Faded 2018 - Worn Cherry). We got off to a bad start when I realised the pots were wired right handed (ie back to front). That felt cheap and the fret wire ends at the bottom of the fretboard feel a bit rough on my hands even now. Mine also has some poor finishing on the sides of the neck, like yours, but over time I have learned to love the guitar and regard the quirks as part of its mojo. I probably have too many electric guitars but I would like another LP style just for comparison and to fool around with. Oh and great playing and thoughts on the 2 guitars. I really enjoyed watching.
I like the Harley Benton. In fact, I've never owned a Gibson. I won't pay the money. I won't pay the money for a Fender. I've played Strat's in the past. Now I have a G&L ASAT Classic (Tele style). I want a Harley Benton SC-550 II BCF now. So I'm trying to sell my handmade Strat copy to get the Harley Benton. Nice playing friend. I've been playing for 58 years and never seen such a nice guitar for the price.
The gibbo sounds ok with pedals the HB sounds good on its own, the HB seems to have more character more options, the gibbo is dull bit muddy sounding, l got a HB fusion 3 a couple of months back it’s well good very impressed,
Hey my man, I just stumbled onto your channel. I love your style and sense of playing. Very smooth. I definitely enjoy how you explain what you’re talking about. Look forward to seeing some more clips.
Good look on the string butler, I've had a few high end guitars like les Paul standards etc but I always go back to the stripped back les Paul's, they just feel better and ring better
At 14:44 when he starts playing I immediately forgot I was watching a "guitar comparison" video and instead feel like I'm watching an "Amazing guitarist you have to hear to believe!" video.
Thank you, appreciate your feedback.
A Diferença é a mão do guitarrista que faz ,embora eu corra de marcas de pedigree, vc é um puta guitarrista ...
You made both guitars sound great, which I think is the point. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and playing.
Many thanks for your feedback 👍
Your phrasing is so tasteful, I could listen to you play all day!
Glad you enjoy it! 😉
So good to hear someone playing R&B soul!! Playing with feeling. Everybody else is playing rock or with some type of distort pedal......refeshing!!!
Cheers 🍻 I appreciate your feedback 👍
I second that. Love the style of playing. Tops.
Brilliant channel. No nonsense and unpretentious improvisation. I enjoyed it all.
Nice one Sean, 👍
Yep. Both sounded good in your expressive hands. Enjoyed listening!
Cheers 🍻 Sam
I sold all my expensive guitars and have started to collect Harley Benton.
You don't mess about, lol awesome
As did i.
I feel more comfortabele and feel more free on a good cheap guitar. Good influence for my style
@@Midnightmidway Why?
My guy, this is one of the most honest comparison videos of these guitars i've seen. Great playing, too. I've subbed.
Congratulations 🎊 👏 💐 welcome to my channel.
Cheers for your feedback 👍
You said it very clear, the one that inspires you in the best one for you, apart from brands and prices. We have to stop thinking about every freaking detail and start feeling more. Great channel! good playing 🤘
Absolutely!! Cheers buddy 👍
Great comparison .Tonally I guess the Gibson just wins but for a fraction of the price Those Harley's always seem to deliver. Small cosmetic details aside they Just always seem to give you a great sounding and playable instrument (7 so far) .I just wished they had been around fifty odd years ago.Also Lemuel Fantastic Hands.
Great point! I am in total agreement, thanks for an honest feedback 👍
Ηm.. indeed so. But the Chinese 50 years ago were just reading Mao Zedong's little red book and cared nothing about making guitars, so we poor teenager aspiring guitarists had to make do with sh!tty Japanese replicas such as Columbus and Satellite etc. Then the Japanese realised that they could also make excellent expensive guitars too and the rest is history.
Loved watching this clip.... Thank you
Glad you enjoyed it, thanks 👍
If you love a guitar model and it's brand, having heard it your entire life on record after record, there's an attachment already built to that guitar. Yes, it's in your head but also in your feelings and music is feeling. Getting inspired by an instrument is really so important so if Gibson inspires you and the instrument itself is great then the Gibson would be the go-to guitar. Nice video and playing.
Bravo, very sound advice 👌 I love it thanks for the feedback
Brilliant feedback 👏 👌 many thanks
@@lem432 My pleasure ☺
Mate you've earned a subscriber, reviews like this are answering the real questions ;) you sound like Michael Caine sorry if you get sick of hearing that :)
I really appreciate that, look out for my new upload, many thanks
Absolutely love your playing 👍 made both guitars sound great❤
I’ve gigged super expensive guitars and dirt cheap starter guitars and as my luthier friend says “doesn’t matter what it says on the headstock”
Nicely done 👌
Cool, thanks!
UPDATE: I keep returning to this video because the playing is so great and the guitars sound so damn good. This time, I listened with the headphones, and I gotta say, I was blown away by how good the HB sounded. Tremendous bang for the buck!. I will be seriously looking into picking one up..
Thank you friend.
Great comparison. But more importantly, marvelous improv. I can sit and listen to this stuff all day and night. Good show sir!!!
Nice one Scott 👍 love the feedback
A good reason you like it so much is the pickup's 490R 490T are good pickups cool guitar
your right Doug, awesome pickups
Excellent review and amazing blues playing. Your honest views are really appreciated. I'm definitely buying one of these. I play blues. Are you london based? Would love to watch you play live.
Yes indeed I am, the next gig I do you're welcome to come along 😀
Lemuel - You're a legend. Love that Gibbo, you don't need the bells and whistles just the feel and the sound eh mate. Nice mod on the headstock too.
Couldn't agree more! Jade, cheers 🍻
I like the mod to your Les Paul, happy for you to aquire one. The playing was great,love to hear them strings bending. I don't consider myself much of a player but I got a HB 35 plus, I freaking love it. I also have a PRS SE, I would rather have the Harley Benton any day,plays great and looks great. Thanks for the video comparison, keep up the great stuff ! 🎸🔥👍
Allen, thanks for your feedback ,you mentioned the HB 35, oh yes that what turned me on to Harley Benton I love that guitar too, I will do a proper demo review of that guitar soon. Thanks again.
Lovely playing man, such great feel and groove. Also like the no BS opinion thanks heaps man!!!!
Much appreciated! Mike appreciate your honest feedback 👍 👌
I liked the Gibbo sound more. Seemed to be clearer. HB is a lovely looking and well constructed guitar . I was thinking about the 335 copy by them.
I also have the 335 copy it's a very good 👍
Your phrasing is awesome, man. Genuine. I have a 1st generation SC-550 and it was fantastic straight out of the box.
I appreciate your feedback matt thanks
Beautiful playing. Really smooth with great phrasing.
Thanks for listening much appreciated
The HB sounds amazing for the price, I also own a sc550 mk1 and love it, great out of the box, but after a few mods it’s a killer lp. Love you playing style Very Cool
Karl thanks for confirming what I always new, you made your guitar your own, well done 👏 thanks for your feedback
Heavily considering pulling the trigger on the SC-550 II or the SC-Custom II, thanks for the demo and thoughts.
Go ahead, what u gotta lose, its was the best decision I made.
I’m just about buying exactly the same model HB. Really enjoy listening to you play. I could listen all night.
Tom, thanks for your feedback, i really appreciate that.
Lemuel, your video showed up randomly on my feed. I’ve never had a Harley Benton, but I very much relate to when you spoke of starting your playing back in the day and the guitars that were available. I too have gotten older and have been able to get some guitars I’ve always wanted… the first being a Gibson les Paul. Like yours, mine isn’t perfect. You can’t unsee the dimple on the neck binding on the 5th fret, but I have really bonded with mine and love it. You seem like a really genuine guy who has a respectable passion for guitar like I do. Thanks for the nice video. I look forward to keeping up with you in the future.
thank you very for your feedback, currently moving house so in a hopfully in a week or so i will upload more content.
Nice job with the demo, and nice playing too! Thanks for making this video!
Thank you too! For your feedback 👍
Holy shit man! Great playing! Smooth with it!
awesome, appreciate your feedback
Great video, Ive got a 2007 Gibson Les Paul classic Antique with exactly the same issue regarding the fret board, the binding isn't flush to the neck.
Oh wow, but I bet you still love it, thanks for your feedback
No bull!
You only say as it is and we all appreciates it. Thank you very much!
Very good review and you're playing is a plesure!
Yes indeed, cheers 🍻 buddy
I enjoyed listening to you play. I could tell as soon as I heard the sweet tone of the Gibson and saw your face when it hit you that you prefer the Gibson. Doesn't matter what the name is on the headstock if it inspires you. Again great playing and thank you for sharing.
Keith, Keith you sussed me out lol, you're on point 👉
Really liked your feedback 👍 thanks
I gotta say, there is a massive difference in feel between the necks of bound and unbound boards. I actually prefer unbound necks if I just go by feel.
And the frets on those two guitars are very different. The Harley Benton’s frets are quite a bit larger than the Gibson’s, and the material feels quite different.
Stainless steel takes getting used to, and some people never quite bond with them.
Both sounded good though 😎
Thanks Ari for your comment which makes a lot of sense 👍
The sc 550 II has jumbo frets, not medium jumbo like generally. I like the sc 550 just for it.
Great video and brilliant playing man 👍
I'm thinking about taking up learning the guitar and as I haven't got the money for a Gibson I'm sold on the Harley Benton after hearing you play. I'm under no illusions I'll be playing like you do anytime soon but I know at least I'll have a guitar that is capable of walking the walk so if it sounds terrible that's on me.
Thanks. This video has helped me quite a lot because I have been looking at other budget guitars and this seems to be right for what I'm looking for.
All the best for the future ✌️
Brilliant feedback 👏 all my best for you.
@@lem432 Thanks. I ordered the SC-550 II BCF today. Can't wait for it to arrive and open it. I've seen your unboxing video before Christmas (Your face was priceless btw) and I can't wait to get that feeling 👍
Really tasty playing Lemuel. Thanks for putting this one up.
Glad you like it! 👍 appreciate the feedback Andrew
Love your feedback, thank you kindly. Keep on enjoying your guitar 🎸
Hi Lemuel . I am also a guitar player and have been for the last 60 years . Just wanted to say how much I enjoy your videos . I like the way you present your gear , and your playing is very good . I am a former Gibson guy , before I switched to Fenders . I sold my Gibsons , and after a few years I replaced them with Epiphones ( I am retired and money is tight ).because I missed them . I am in the states , but have never played a Harley Benton . How do suppose they compare to Epiphones ?
Hi Kenny, thanks for your feedback and comments.
Regarding how the epiphone compares the Harley Benton,
There are very close in terms of Qc, however Harley Benton is much cheaper for the same price and quality, so you can get both. 😀
Thanks Lemuel. Useful vid.
FWIW I have (amongst others) a HB TE-52 tele clone - £132, and a Fender Elite Strat (£1800 in 2016). The cheap tele gets played more. It's not as well made, but it's good enough and I like it. All about what works for you. Put 10-52s on the HB, oil the fretboard and polish the frets and you'll close the gap, but the Gibson pickups were simply sounding better, richer, more dynamic. Maybe need to adjust the pickup heights on the HB to optimise them? Helps a lot.
Steve thank for your feedback and recommendations much appreciated 👍
great playing. love your chromatic runs with pentoinic resolutions
Cheers Kyle 🍻
I have an Active custom with Grovers as standard a 450 plus and a 450, the 450 came with a damaged switch that i replaced and i also replaced the pups and tuners for wilcos, they all play and feel incredible, so much so i am looking to buy another. All 3 came to the grand sum of £495, i sold my les paul std to pay bills accumulated during lockdown and i do not miss it a jot.
@manofthewest67 Oh wow what an incredible feedback 👏 thanks for the share.
Your playing sold me the HB after about 30 seconds. Really nice. I have two HB guitars already, one of which I assembled from one of their kits. I quite fancy this model.
Cheers for your feedback 👍
I purchased one of these when they came out in 2018, a beautiful Guitar for us mortals, can't fault it. All the best with your Gibson.
Many thanks, the gibson is my favourite, cheers 🍻
Been eyeing a HB SC-550 II, that's how I got here. First thank you for the review, my decision is made, that's my next axe for sure! also, absolutely enjoyed your playing, blown away! I'm 48 & just started playing around last Xmas and you played exactly how I have set my goals to learn. Thank you for the inspiration! 👍🏻🙂👏🏻👏🏻
I am so happy for you. I appreciate your feedback, it's means a lot to me.
My HB 550 2 is a keeper for me because it's getting better and better the more I play it.
You won't be disappointed.
Cheers 🍻
@@lem432much appreciated.. would you recall the setup that you had for this video? Amps and effect pedal if any? Thank you in advance..
@@lem432found it int the transcripts.. 🙂👍🏻
Wow, this video was refreshing. I don't listen to blues, but I would listen to you play any day!
Many thanks buddy 👍
Great playing mate. Great gift you have 👍🎸
Ian,thanks for your encouraging feedback much greatly appreciated 👍
I now have three Harley Bentons in my rack and they are all really excellent.
Especially the P90 goldtop.
Cheers for the feedback 👍
Best review and comparison video I’ve seen …great work Lemuel.
Wow, thanks! Gerry.
Thanks Lemuel appreciate your comparison.. super playing! just love the way you your soul comes through! thats what it should be about.. keep on on doing it brother!
Thanks a lot! Brother
Gorgeous licks. At one point I forgot I was watching a demonstration and just enjoying the jam. When you can get a guitar like that for that price, it makes you wonder how much the Gibson/Fender names are really worth. If you can find them, you should also try Firefly. They make copies of Strat, Tele, LP, SG and ES-335....but at a fraction of the price of Gibson/Fender. I have a Firefly 338 (ES-335 knockoff). She's a beautiful blueburst/on black with white binding and ivory inlays that plays easy and has nice tone/sustain. I bought it 2 years ago for about $250 US.
Cheers for comments and feedback, I did try to get my hands on a Fire fly, not easy, but when I come across one, I might be tempted 😀
Thanks again for your feedback 👍
@@lem432 There are (were) shops selling them new on ebay. Maybe more difficult in UK.
I enjoyed your comparison review, I think the HB SC 550 punches way above its weight and gives the Gibson a very close run for the money! I personally bought the HB SC 450 plus Vintage series with coil split 5 years back and was well pleased.
I totally agree! Thanks for your feedback 😀
Wow Great playing! Thanks for the Info! Greetings from Austria
wow, thanks for your feedback
Love my Harley Benton SC-450 P90 GT Classic Series, sounds incredible. Only took a few months to really play in nicely. Love your sound man and love your playing and content. I've subbed and wish you well with the channel.
Much appreciated Ogma, thanks for your comments
Loved your video, Lemi. Another working class guy here with a passion for guitars, but no millionaire, so looking for value for money when picking up instruments. This is seriously one of the best reviews I've seen in quite a while. No BS; just down to earth great information and advice from an enthusiastic, great player with a passion for the art. Love the Gibson, by the way, and the HB for the money. It is interesting what you can find these days in the way of value for money guitars. I have an Epi Les Paul Plus Top Pro which I really love playing and a few Fenders. I'm looking for another twin bucker guitar at the moment for one of my boys, so found this video very useful. Just sub'ed and look forward to more of the same. All the best :)
@@neilsmith9220 I just humbled by your comment and review
Thank you.
Your playing is brilliant. Very varied licks and a cool vibrato. I own the faded les Paul and like it. My favourite was the Vintage lemon drop but i had to sell.too heavy for my dodgy worn out shoulders. Any live work or recorded stuff ?
Thanks for your feedback much appreated, shame about your vintage lemon drop,
If i can sort out some live recorded stuff i did, i will post it out,
Great comparison video, and great playing too, the Gibson just wins on tone but only just, the HB looks and sounds like great value for the money
Thanks for watching! And for your feedback, much appreciated
Wonderful comparison. I love the chilled explanation and soothing guitar playing. Some excellent note choices Sir. 👌
Thank you kindly! Cheers 🍻
I and my brother review guitars. We've done quite a few Harley Benton guitars. We have never done a Gibson (too expensive) since nobody gives us free guitars. We wouldn't accept them either. We like to keep ourselves honest. This was a great review and comparison. Liked, and subscribed!
Leo and Dan, I am honoured that you subscribed to my channel and I always appreciate honest feedback, cheers
I've never thought much about all the precise little details. If it feels good, it feels good.
The ones that I've built or modified are my favorites. The whole game about brands is a different subject entirely to me. They have all their marketing schemes and stockholders. Crap that has nothing to do with guitars.
I like the channel!
Good work!
Bravo to you Bryan, Youre right on point,thanks for that feedback.
Great honest soul in your playing. I'm thinking of getting the HB 550, its a beauty, I love those big stainless steel frets, no more taking it in for crowning. Thank You for this demo.
Go for it!, cheers buddy 👍 for your feedback.
Both sound great and pretty premium… Gibson pips the HB tho on tone imo.
Edit:- that‘s some really nice improv and very melodic and interesting phrasing.
Many thanks for the feedback 👍
A massive congratulations 🎊 and welcome to my channel 👏
At the time I was using a peavey classic 30 Watts valve amp with reverb, and digitech screamin blues pedal. Cheers for your feedback 👍
I have a 2015 faded SG and I'm thinking about getting a HB 550 as well. I just have a problem buying a guitar on line.
well if you buy direct from thomann, your covered, and problem you can return it.
thanks for the feedback
Can tell Albert King is an influence. Great playing. Love my Harley Benton SC-450. She's not perfect but for sub $200 it's better than guitars I've spent 4-5X as much on. Had it now 5 years, still play it often. I'll never get rid of it. All stock.
Your are right, Love the feedback, many thanks
I hear some Knopfler there too. Or maybe Mark was very inspired by the late great Albert King? 🤔
Tone is in the fingers.
You got it Man.
Peace!
Much appreciated 👍
Wonderful playing and excellent comparison review. As you were playing the Gibson after you played the HB, I thought the Gibson's got that "certain something," a richness, character and authenticity in the tone that was somehow not there with the HB. I think it's that Gibson pedigree and well over a century of making guitars that makes the difference. It shows that it's not about the appointments, but the heart and soul of the guitar. I do think the 10's have a fatter tone than the 9's as well. I have always liked the 490 pickups that are on that LP, even better than the Burstbuckers they put on the far more expensive Standard, And jolly good show picking up that Gibson for around 500 lbs. What a steal!
Cheers buddy 👍
Love the comments and feedback 😀 .
Thanks ✅️
Great review , nice playing , i thought that when you played the Les Paul you definitely were playing with more feel which just as you said you felt more of a connection with the Les Paul mind you the HB sounded great . I bought a Klon pedal & i agree they sound great . Great clip , keep em coming , thanks .
Thanks! Paul appreciate your feedback 👍
Subscribed cause you seem like a cool guy. Peace from Australia 🇦🇺
Welcome aboard t, much appreciated 👍 👏
Beautiful playing, both guitars sound great when you're playing them!
Thanks a lot!
Excellent job my friend !
thanks very much appreciate your feedback
Tasty playing, man. Very nice.
Thanks for listening, appreciate your feedback 👍
Greetings from Texas. Enjoyed your playing.
Thanks for listening Michael from Texas much appreciated
Nice Playing Lemuel, good solid review - you appeared to dig playing the Gibson more than the HB! The HB sounds great certainly for the money, but you can tell the difference in tone even through the phone. The Gibson sounds richer, more full. I have a white 2013 Gibson LPJ which is kinda similar to yours, but it has a 50's maple neck and 498t in the bridge, it's no frills like yours and I love it, I have posher Gibsons, but I keep going back to the LPJ - You don't need bling for it to be cool, infact i'd say they are kinda cooler. Thanks for the vid! - Steve
Iam 💯 in agreement, I love my Gibson, excellent feedback. Thanks
Man, your guitar playing is awesome!
Hey, thanks! Jason
Appreciate your feedback Jason, thanks
Great Vid bud! Great playing man!!!!
Thanks a lot! Much appreciated 👍
Beutiful playing man, for sure the Gibson is much more expensive, but as i got 23 Harley Benton Guitars, my favourite is the Harley Benton,..Thanks man and Much love to you 🥰🎸
23 harley bentons, wow 👌
I noticed that you have your Gibson top wrapped and that does make a difference in the feel. The same can be said for a guitar that is broken in vs one that is brand-spanking new. Both of them look great, that top on the HB is gorgeous!
Yes, I top wrapped the gibson because it makes the strings to me more easy to bend the strings, thanks for your feedback
Yes I agree, gives it the 'slinky' feel.
Great playing. He'll sound good playing anything
Don't know about that 🤔 but I appreciate your feedback, thanks
I bought my brother a Harley Benton Telecaster, it is a lovely sounding guitar. Excellent quality for the price.
Awesome 👌 your very generous
Really enjoyed and feel inspired by your video and pace. And you’re right, you seemed to play a bit more freely and organically on the Gibson with some really nice, tasty licks bro, although both guitars sounded very good to my ear. I do prefer 10's though I think they give you a better tone. I totally relate to everything you said in terms quality and bonding with an instrument and the spiritual elements of a guitar etc etc.... Looking forward to your next video. Thank you.... from San Antonio, TX.
Michael, brilliant feedback 👏 I am loving the feedbacks it's inspiring
Thanks so much for that! I miss the honest homemade, no frills, unprofessional (no offense I hope!) youtube videos. Loved it! 👍
You are so welcome! Thanks for your feedback 👍
I have a 1991 Gibson SG Special, of which I am the original owner. It was my first “real” electric guitar, which I bought because it had the sound and playability I was looking for, and was in my price range. This was before I knew much about guitars; other than the basics, like what a Strat was, what a Telecaster was, and what a Les Paul was.
My SG has 490R/490T pickups, which sound amazing. I added pickup covers to them, in 2012, which gave them a more harmonically rich sound. I also have another Gibson with 490R/490T pickups - which is my 2012 Les Paul Jr. Special Humbucker. That guitar also sounds amazing. The 490R on that guitar almost has a P90/single coil tone. I highly recommend that model of Les Paul - as they are quite affordable no-frills rock machines, that play like a dream.
I also have a 2009 Gibson Les Paul Traditional, which was my first Les Paul, and a 2014 Gibson Les Paul Traditional Pro II 50s. The Trad Pro II were a Guitar Center exclusive, here in the States. But Anderton’s, and Thomann got some of them. They are exceptional guitars, which come with a 50s or 60s neck - your choice.
Love your collection.
The 490 r and t are superb pickups.
Cheers 🍻 for the share 👍 buddy.
Sir. You touched so many important aspects of guitar philosophy in such a gentle way. I'm professional musician for like 25 years. I had some HB and they are fantastic entry level guitars. It's a mistery how they are able to deliver such a great value for such a small cost. I'm from Poland and we could only pray for such a great instruments in 70' 80' 90's. All we had was horrible guitars of local or eastern Germany production. Western instruments were worth like few months salaries... Today if you want to start your adventure with music you can pay 1/4 of month salary and grab fantastic, playable instrument. It's a miracle. Having said that if you got step higher and had a chance to play Gibsons, Fenders etc. there is a place where another story begins. For a professional musician is a choice of trust. HB are great, playable instruments but I can't imagine to fall in love with them. There is something missing. That invisible element of heritage and knowledge. BUT in a few years or decades will will have a lot of great musicians infected to music by HB instruments. Great!
Thanks for your brilliant feedback, I loved it.
Awesome. Thanks
Some sweet playin' Lemuel! Nice review too! Cheers!
Thank you kindly!
Both guitars sounded great because you can play your ass off. That's really the most important thing. You play like you were born and raised over here with us. I can hear your British accent. But we're both made of the same stuff so it ain't no surprise you got the feel. Peace from Texas, USA.
Amen to that, DNA has memories, that's deep.
Cheers 🍻 for your feedback, love it.
1st, being from the Deep South in the US...
When the accent came out😂. Hehe sorry it got tho!! I have a HB lemon drop i bought in 2017 i think.... i still love it. Ive upgraded everything but the wood. And its still cheaper than a upper tier Epiphone. I put a$300 set of lollar imperial low wound pickups. Locking tuners. Bone nut.everything lol.
But Brother you make that HB 550 sing!! You cant beat them.... but we still want that Big GIBSON on a headstock.
Now you have both, the best of both worlds!! And a New Subscriber!!!
Lol, brother from the deep south, thanks for subscribing to my channel and the accent thing that's so funny 😁 man you were serious about your upgrades, you're a legend 😄 😀 cheers for the feedback.
@@lem432 your very welcome Sir!!
Top stuff fella 🎸
Got a ja60, dc dirty mustard junior and a 25th anniversary te25... Jazz is good, junior is great, te25 tele is fantastic
Awesome stuff, thanks for the feedback
I am watching this after I already bought and fell in love with my Harley Benton Les Paul just out of interest what your impression of it is. But I stayed for the playing.
I'm totally impressed with my Harley Benton. The more I play it, the better it gets
Thanks for your feedback 👍
You have a really, really beautiful way of playing. I love it.
Andreas from Germany ; - )
Oh wow, Thank you
I found your videio because I am tempted to get the HB SC550 or the SC-25th. My HB fusion-T tele is a great guitar and made me realise after 40 years of playing just how much "budget" guitars have improved.
Incidentally I also have the left handed version of that Gibson model (Les Paul Faded 2018 - Worn Cherry). We got off to a bad start when I realised the pots were wired right handed (ie back to front). That felt cheap and the fret wire ends at the bottom of the fretboard feel a bit rough on my hands even now. Mine also has some poor finishing on the sides of the neck, like yours, but over time I have learned to love the guitar and regard the quirks as part of its mojo. I probably have too many electric guitars but I would like another LP style just for comparison and to fool around with.
Oh and great playing and thoughts on the 2 guitars. I really enjoyed watching.
Brilliant feedback thanks
I like the Harley Benton. In fact, I've never owned a Gibson. I won't pay the money. I won't pay the money for a Fender. I've played Strat's in the past. Now I have a G&L ASAT Classic (Tele style). I want a Harley Benton SC-550 II BCF now. So I'm trying to sell my handmade Strat copy to get the Harley Benton. Nice playing friend. I've been playing for 58 years and never seen such a nice guitar for the price.
You won't regret buying one. They are absolutely amazing guitars for the price.
Thanks for your feedback 👍
The gibbo sounds ok with pedals the HB sounds good on its own, the HB seems to have more character more options, the gibbo is dull bit muddy sounding, l got a HB fusion 3 a couple of months back it’s well good very impressed,
Paul, thanks for feedback I find them very useful and helpful 👍
Great video. ..aand you can always upgrade the pickups etc. for a fairly affordable prices.
Cheers buddy 👍
Very nice playing. I’ve just discovered your channel and subbed right away.It’s good to hear a different style of playing for guitar reviews.
Thanks for the sub! I appreciate it.
You seem to work a Buddy Guy blues tone loved it.
Cheers Ian 🍻
il dettaglio è molto simile! ho avuto modo di sperimentare con la mia Gibson standard e suona benissimo questa benton !👍
Thanks for your honest feedback 👍
Hey my man, I just stumbled onto your channel. I love your style and sense of playing. Very smooth. I definitely enjoy how you explain what you’re talking about. Look forward to seeing some more clips.
Thanks, will do! Cheers 🍻
@@lem432 😎🍺🍺
Good look on the string butler, I've had a few high end guitars like les Paul standards etc but I always go back to the stripped back les Paul's, they just feel better and ring better
absolutely. i agee cheers for the feedback
Subscribed. Lovely playing.
Thanks for the sub! Much appreciated 👍
nice picking style
Thank you kindly!