2020 Epiphone SG Classic P90s in Worn Green vs Harley Benton SC-450 P90 Gold Top | Guitar shootout!

[@RichWordsMusic]

And here’s the chapter timestamps for all of you on phones and tablets: 00:00 Hello! 00:26 Intro and guitar specs Clean Channel 04:17 Clean chords on all three pickup selections 05:09 Pop and rock sounds 08:10 Atmospheric lead sounds 08:28 Southern rock rhythm sounds Clean Channel with Greer Lightspeed Overdrive 09:22 Kings Of Leon-esque indie chords 09:53 Indie rock riff 10:38 Indie rock chords and rhythm work Crunch Channel 12:37 Classic rock rhythm sounds 15:59 Southern Rock lead melody Lead Channel 16:29 Hard rock sounds 17:44 Pop punk sounds Clean Channel with Revv G3 distortion pedal 18:11 Metal rhythm sounds and chugging 18:47 Hardcore punk riff 19:16 Mastodon-inspired riff 19:38 Progressive metal rhythm 20:09 Hardcore riff 20:32 Sludge/stoner rock riff 21:32 Hard rock lead riff 21:58 Conclusion and my thoughts

[@svenwalther135]

In my ears, the epi sounds much better... great job.

[@RichWordsMusic]

It's got a bit more aggression, for sure, and some days I prefer it, and some days the HB... they're both awesome! Glad you enjoyed the video, and thanks for watching :)

[@rsabston]

Great job comparing, I enjoyed both of your reviews on the individual guitars as well. To my ears it wasn’t even close the SG Classic just had a more full and warmer tone. I had been looking around for a nice affordable guitar with P90s, and this one helped me decide on the SG classic, will be purchasing one very soon.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Thanks Shean, I'm glad I helped you make your decision and you enjoyed the videos! I really love the Epi and I hope you will feel the same way about yours too... it nails so many tones and styles of music really well and it's extremely light and comfortable to play. Cheers :)

[@Anjohl]

Hey Shean, I just bought the exact model Rich played here, and they are wonderful guitars! My issue with the Harley Benton is the odd choices used in woods. It has a Basswood body, and a "Blackwood" (aka synthetic) fretboard. That plus the generic PU's make it a no go for me. The Epiphone however is a wonderful guitar, with full model appropriate specs except for the Laurel fretboard instead of Rosewood, but to be honest, I find the Laurel Epiphone is using is just fine.

[@Rogijimbex]

I really like the system you have for comparison. Just enough to get the idea across with no extended lines to show off. Well done. I went into this with the green SG already in my possession. I'm so impressed with the sound of it I was kind of hearing your demo with it ...and my sound already in my head. Not good for fair comparison. I will say this is the first Harley Benton review I've watched and it's indeed an impressive instrument given the modifications. Still need to see one straight out of the box. Thanks for the video.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Glad you enjoyed it! To be honest my guitar skills don't get much flashier than this anyway, but I do like making straightforward comparisons... kind of feels like that's how most of us normal people play 99% of the time anyway. I also prefer the SG to the Harley Benton as an overall instrument, but it's like you say, the HB guitars do work very well as modding guitars. I might pick up my own at some point, and then I'll be able to compare them with and without mods. For now though, the SG is the guitar I turn to most! The P90s really sing for the kind of stuff I play, and it's so light and playable. A very inspiring guitar. Enjoy yours!

[@Anjohl]

That Green Epiphone SG Special is fantastic. I snagged a gently used one off FB Marketplace for $230 USD, and I felt like I was stealing it going out the door! Wonderful pickups, great neck, and fantastic electronics!

[@RichWordsMusic]

Wow, great deal, nice work! That is actually a steal. I am still loving this guitar - it's so much fun, and the P90s really snarl! Enjoy yours :)

[@s.schmidt5923]

Thanks for the video, especially for testing the instrument with all kinds of music (incuding the high gain section)!

[@RichWordsMusic]

No problem, I'm glad you found it useful!

[@stringdoc]

To me, the HB won the clean tone test by a long shot, but as Rich said, that may have been due to the significant improvements made to the HB. In its defense, the SG had no improvements and the HB had several. Having said that, there were a few times when I liked the SG sound better. I generally prefer neck cleans that sound thin, rather than fat. That's why I like Hiwatt amps better than Fenders. But the big issue for me is weight. I love lightweight guitars! I play longer and better on lightweight guitars. Much as I love the looks of the HB, I'd get the SG, get it set up and maybe lower the neck pickup just a little to thin out the tone. Overall, though, they both sounded great! Great demo! Thanks, Rich.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Thanks Jim, glad you found this useful! That's why I personally enjoy watching videos like this too - I find them very practical before buying something online, which is always a bit of a lottery. I think you're right about the tones here too - that's exactly how I feel about them. I'm certain that the setup has helped the HB massively. And I know I should take the SG to my tech as well! If you dig light guitars by the way, check out the one I looked at the other day - the Hans Rocket Lightweight. It weighs less than 5 lbs. (2.2 kgs)! Different price range, of course, but it's a wonderful guitar and I wish I could afford it. The P90 on it rips too. This one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/haiZlmlontV9arc

[@henrikpetersen2666]

I think it would be worth mentioning that the neck PU on the HB is positioned pretty close to the end of the fretboard. This is not at all possible on the SG because of its design and also it would weaken the neck joint I think. We all know that the position of the pickup is quite important tone wise, so this will definety contribute to the HB guitars fuller sound in the neck position, knowing that the scale length and number of frets on both guitars are the same. Thanks for the video. I will definitely be buying the SG. I need those P90s!

[@RichWordsMusic]

Yep, that's definitely a factor! I think the SG body does dictate where the pickup has to go, yes. And the neck pickup on this specific SC-450 is way high, as I discuss a bit more in the dedicated review I did of it. Pickup position certainly makes a difference though... I also remember seeing a video someone did with two basically identical PRS guitars, where one was a 22 and one a 24, and it was clear there. Overall though, that's the correct conclusion - these P90s sound great! Hope you love the guitar when you get it. I'm still loving it. It's quirky and unusual, but light and resonant and so much fun!

[@07Cessna]

Very good test. I'm very happy to listen to you. I think the Epiphone SG is really great. I'm still missing an SG with P90. Thanks for this test.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Thanks a lot - glad you enjoyed it! Yes, I still play this SG a lot - it's such a fun guitar, sounds great, and it's super light as well... and beautiful too, of course :) I can only recommend it if you're thinking about a guitar like this!

[@jamesmarcin4787]

I am a Les Paul guy but the SG. Sounded better and more articulate to my ears.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Interesting, as an LP guy I thought you'd gravitate towards the HB. That said, the Epi definitely is more articulate on the neck pickup, and the higher output on the bridge pickup does make it a bit more raucous and more LP-like! Thanks for watching :)

[@DMSProduktions]

BOTH sound good, but the Epi killed the HB! Epi P90s were brighter and clearer than the Roswells that were in the HB! Good comp Richard! \m/

[@RichWordsMusic]

Thank you sir! Overall I have to agree... the place the HB won for me was the clean sounds on the neck pickup. Otherwise it's the Epi for me!

[@DMSProduktions]

@@RichWordsMusic Cool!

[@alanst.4417]

Both sound very good and quite close IMO, 2 flavours of affordable P90 goodness. I second what you say, the HB shines on clean with its full, warm and creamy sound, and the Epi is showing its superiority given the better defined and hotter PUPs with higher gain.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Yep, in places they are surprisingly close! Both great fun throughout, though, and I agree with you totally - I'd recommend the SG to players who wanted to go a little more high gain, and the SC-450 to people who wanted to stay a little more classic and vintage sounding. Can't go wrong with owning both though ;)

[@alanst.4417]

@@RichWordsMusic sure thing for the price, if you have enough room for 2 P90 guitars and your wife isn't going to crucify you then 😉

[@jensnilsson1507]

I am more of a high gain player, so I thought I’d like the SG way better but it was hard to choose. Really liked how NWOBHM the HB sounded. Cool vid!

[@RichWordsMusic]

Yep, I agree Jens, the HB has a really good high-end bite on the hard rock/NWOBHM stuff! It's actually quite difficult to pick between the two in the end. Cheers, and glad you like the vid :)

[@monkeymindmatters]

Great video, thanks. The Epiphone wins for me. Sound has more character to it. Both are very nice, of course.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Glad you found it useful! Yep, overall and with hindsight I would pick the Epi too - I think it wins on the tonal character front (apart from on the neck pickup for cleans!) and as an overall versatile instrument.

[@JedrekVRoscoe]

I know it’s all about preferences, but I really think the SG wins out. More full of a sound, less screamy twang.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Exactly, tone is 100% a personal thing - so whatever sounds better to you IS better. I happen to agree by the way, except on neck pickup clean sounds, where the HB shades it for me. Thanks for watching :)

[@stringdoc]

One of the best-looking goldtops I've ever seen. Almost looks like a Gibson coppertop I should have bought years ago, but didn't. I like the HB best for looks and sound. The SG for weight.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Yes, it is an absolutely beautiful guitar! So is the SG, in my eyes... and yes, it feels like it weighs half of what the HB does! What a shame you never got the coppertop. I think they're pretty rare and hard to track down these days, aren't they? At least you can still pick up one of these HBs if you wish.

[@ChristianKarlsruhe]

Thanks, I enjoyed the Video 👍 I like more the epiphone

[@RichWordsMusic]

Cheers Chris, glad you enjoyed it! On reflection, I'm for the Epiphone too :)

[@Tiffany-Rose]

That epiphone was born for that crunchy metal in my opinion but I thought they both sounded really awesome. To me the Epi was slightly louder across the board but again they both sound great. I think this video solidifies my need for that Green Epi 🤩🙌

[@Terry3Gs]

I thought it was prettymuch even. Thanks for the detailed shootout between them.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Happy you found it useful Terry! Yep, these guitars both have their plus points and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend either. Thanks for watching :)

[@Steven_SK]

I have to go with the HB on this. Both sound good but I like the tad brighter the 450 has and that is subjective as hell. It could easily go either way for folks I think. I would pause a moment to grab the stock and save the mod hassle but... I have never been an SG person so.... So yea HB for the win on this one. Nice demo Rich! You made it very easy to see the clear difference. Cheers!

[@RichWordsMusic]

It's funny but as I listened back again when I was cutting the clips together I was really starting to dig the HB's slightly brighter high end on the gainier stuff too. Shows how the ears can change from sitting to sitting too, and tone's such a personal thing anyway. Oh, and I've always been an SG person, but this is my first with P90s! Glad you liked the video and there will be more comparisons to come, I really find it interesting to pull out the subtle differences between the guitars :)

[@leeasbury7273]

Dig it 👍. No loser here. Although, the SG (SuperGreen) came out swinging with both fists 👊, I'd say, from what I can here on my phone speakers. It's grittier or something. Maybe more clarity in some upper mid situations...? An Equalizer pedal would put both guitars in the upper deck, incidentally...and, don't forget your EQ adjustments on the amp kids! Pickup replacement is not nearly as necessary as most think. I'd say my BBE Sonic Stomp pedal kept me from changing half of my pickups. I still like to rewire, try tone caps & split pups and all that stuff though 🙂. And sometimes new pickups are just begging for a new home, so...yeah (thinking about the time I put a set of salvaged PRS HFS & VB HB's from my Custom 24 Emerald 10 top, into a $500 PRS semi hollow import, 🥁aaand...I learned there is no Santa Clause that day. The Wolf brand "generic" pups that the PRS clone (curiously in the exact green finish shown here on your SG) came stock with were actually my favorite between the two. I investigated further (never could leave well enough alone) and found similar quality n pickup components, and even measured almost identical resistance on both pups, respectively - approx.14k on the ceramic bridge, and 7.5k neck readings. Plus, the Wolf's stock brand pups had cool gold covers on them. Hmm💭 This must be what an ACTUAL Netflix account owner's financial responsibility for it feels like; while he sees his friends sign in, year after year, (without so much as an obligatory, insincere offer to chip in... or even BUY chips! & dip...PLUS, the ugly dumb one that owes you money -and beer-, just bought a new car that he drove over to impress u with. And the ignorant jagoff didn't even bring any beer! Not even a few old, warm, full cans of Iron City, that were rolling around on the floor of his OLD ride...that I lent him the down-payment for 3 yrs prior. I think what I'z been breakdancing around here, bout the pickups and..n potato chips.. n erythng...is that, I basically bought a quarter... with a buck 💸💰: But!...I always remember that now, and usually ignore it anyway. Now THAT.. is 'progress' 👏! (...or, an...abscess? Like, the one you ignore til ur shy, embarrassing stubbornness backfires, and you land USELF in the ER, surrounded by the cast of...umm 🤷‍♀️👩🏼‍⚕️? SCRUBS : TOP 10 SEXIEST SEXY SMOKIN HOT SEXY SCRUBS GIRLS, BEHIND THE SCENES: BOOBS N SECRETS..ABOUT BOOBS N STUFF. Took Ambien. Imma nappa dap ditty doo, then try again..

[@RichWordsMusic]

Thanks for the epic comment Lee, there's a bunch of cool info in there! I never knew SG stood for Super Green ;) I can also tell you've been there and done that with pickup switching, tone testing and the like, so it's interesting to hear your take on these two guitars. I agree 100% with what you've said there though, the SG is grittier and more suited to higher gain playing and more modern sounds. Both great guitars though! And yes, I'm on the lookout for a decent EQ pedal to test with all my guitars - I'm thinking the Boss EQ-200 would cover all bases! Ultimately, like you I'm on a journey to learn all this stuff about guitars, and I think I'm just a few stops on that journey behind where you are :)

[@ljdellar]

Speaking as a fan of the Harley Benton range, the Epiphone is, for me, a clear winner. The sounds had more authority and girth, and I have to disagree with your opinion of the neck pickup. I feel the Epiphone sounded creamier and warmer.. I own a HB Les Paul which is armed with their humbuckers and I love that guitar, but for a P90 powered guitar I am going to have to buy the Epiphone.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Interesting points. I'm still preferring the HB's neck pickup, but it's all about personal taste I guess. To my ear, the HB is somehow thicker and creamier. For everything else, I'm with you, and I think the Epiphone wins. It's definitely a more rock n roll guitar. I'd also be really interested to try one of the newer Epiphone Les Paul Specials, as they are supposed to be pretty great!

[@ljdellar]

@@RichWordsMusic Absolutely. It's what you like, rather than which is "best". I, too, would love to try one of the Epi LP specials. I have a Gibson LP Doublecut with P90s which I like, but it somehow does not inspire me like at least two other (much, much cheaper) guitars that I own. I made most of my guitars myself, and I have a "Strat" style guitar with P90s that I play much more often because it just feels and sounds more inspiring to me. In no way could you say it is an objectively "better" guitar; it has plenty of flaws in workmanship and finish, and much cheaper hardware, but I want to play it all the time.

[@darwinsaye]

Can hear right away that the HB could maybe use the neck pickup lowered. The middle and neck positions are almost the same sound. Excellent demo.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it! I thought that about the neck pickup too at first, but my friend who owns the guitar (and is a tech) likes it like this. He uses the guitar to play a specific Pink Floyd solo (Another Brick In The Wall), so this could be why he wants that exact setup. Once I convince him to sell the guitar to me I'll take it down a little, but I'm kind of used to it as well now!

[@650thunderbird]

Great shoot out, Rich! I didn't need to change the tuners or nut, the tuners are as good as any of my other guitars, but did do a fret level to get a very low action. Also worked on the nut (I have the tools). Variable QC can be an issue with any guitar brand, IME.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Cheers, glad you liked it! Yeah, variable QC can hit even the most expensive of brands, as has been well documented over the years ;) And I've actually heard very mixed feedback from friends on the 2020 Epiphones... all I can say is that this one is a good one (and yet a setup will make it even better!). Great that you're able to do that kind of work yourself - something I need to learn - as you've now got yourself an amazing rocking machine for very little money! Enjoy!

[@OlajuwonCH]

Great stuff as usual Rich, thank you for your effort. Quick question about the weight of bith guitars: HB is said to be very heavy.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Thanks a lot! Glad you are enjoying my vids :) Yes, this HB is much heavier than the Epi... maybe a kilogram heavier! This is not because it's a super heavy guitar - it's also because the Epi is extremely light :) Cheers and rock on!

[@uwesicks]

Great review rich, seems that the HB is a killer instrument in that price range :-) But....you should cover the left down corner from your total view (the table stand) with something weird stuff, cats or something like this :-)

[@RichWordsMusic]

Thanks Uwe, you know it is a great guitar... even without considering the price! You're right, I need a better looking room. This is on my wishlist. But actually what I really need is a good producer, someone behind the camera making sure all that stuff is great for me! You know what I mean :)

[@eloysuopunki7926]

I love that SG Epi with p90s.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Me too, glad you liked it!

[@sailorjerry7282]

Awesome review man! Great way to show how each guitar sounds and responds to each chord prog or riff by alternating between the two. Like someone else who commented I thought the SG sounded more articulate. Been playing for 40+ yrs and love P90s. I recently bought one of those SGs in the red finish as I was extremely impressed after trying one in a shop. We can't easily get HBs in Australia but I'll try and find out more 'cos I'm a sucker for gold tops and that one looks and sounds ace. Thank you for posting this 👍 I've subscribed too 😉 Cheers 🎸

[@RichWordsMusic]

Thanks, glad you liked it! Glad to get that feedback from someone who's clearly way more of a P90 expert than I am! Yep, I find the alternating riff thing is the easiest way to tell between two guitars... makes for a lot of editing though ;) Wish more KZbinrs would do it, as I find it very useful. It's interesting you should say the SG sounded more articulate. I definitely agree on the cleans and on the neck/middle pickup settings too, although the HB has a slightly more biting high end on high gain to my ears. But hey, we all hear a bit differently, don't we. You know, I heard from another comment about how hard it is to get HBs to Australia, and the not insignificant shipping costs too! Maybe you could club together with some guitarist friends and get a crate sent over! Thanks for the sub too :)

[@Tiago_007]

I’m going with the HB on this one, more than likely biased opinion since I have it! The looks alone, for the money you can’t beat it. The Gold color is almost orange, it makes it pop so much more. Beautiful guitar. Great job Rich. What is that riff at the 16 minute mark? Sounds like one of the darker Def Leppard riffs, very cool.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Yeah, I'll give you that! I really want my friend to sell me this one. I know I could just buy one too, but I feel at home on this one, which is always a great feeling with a guitar! And I love the finish too, it's so rich, and a lot more intense than a standard Gibson gold top. The riff there is just something I came up with... it's certainly not consciously from anywhere else, although I might have heard it somewhere and then played something like it without knowing! It is a cool riff though (no matter who came up with it), glad you like it :)

[@221b-l3t]

I think I'll get both. It's not much more expensive than just the Epiphone. Toneriders into the Benton and that'll be a lot of guitar for the money.

[@mrbesserwisser7447]

Tha body shape also has a big influence on tone imho

[@RichWordsMusic]

Sure does - the SC-450's bigger, thicker and heavier body gives it more sustain for sure. It's possibly darker too, although not by much.

[@ImLeuff]

I'm loving your channel, very well made videos and in depth. Just a follow up question to your original Epiphone video, do you still get the finger staining from the laurel fretboard ?

[@RichWordsMusic]

Thanks a lot, glad to hear you're enjoying it! Yes, I do still get the finger staining, but it appears to be getting less the more I play the guitar... so maybe in a couple more months it'll be gone completely! (The color of the board hasn't changed either, so I don't think it can have been dye rubbing off...)

[@FistPie]

Nice video. I thought the Epiphone sounded better on the clean and crunch. They sounded identical to me with more gain.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed! Yep, I'm leaning more towards the Epi now. I actually thought it sounded better than the HB on high gain too - the HB was a little tinnier. Doesn't come across as much on KZbin as it did in the room!

[@jimmyjoe1871]

SG..... The Harley Benton sounded thinner. The notes were livelier on the SG to my ear.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Yep, the more I come back to this vid to answer the comments, the more I find myself agreeing with this! Especially on crunch and the higher gain stuff. The one place the HB still wins for me is the neck pickup on the cleans.

[@DropDee44]

I love that green SG! Thinking about getting one as well but I've heard that SGs suffer from tuning stability. How is your experience on that matter? Love that P90 sound man thanks for making these videos!

[@RichWordsMusic]

Yeah, it's a real beauty and P90s are the best! And I have to say, mine holds tune really well, although I have had a setup by a pro tech who also put a bone nut on it... I'm sure that helps! Hope you get to try one soon and cheers for watching 😎

[@HorizonMelt]

I've had the SG, same color, for two years now. Tuning stability and function of the tuners so far has been perfectly fine even having traveled with it on airplanes.. I have no desire to change them. The stock pickups are amazing as you can see and the guitar is so light and comfortable. I've added a few more guitars to my collection since then and every time I go back to this SG I am again thrilled that I bought it. In further praise of it I love how it takes pedals. I use relatively heavy gain with a OneControl Purple Plexifier and it's just so d+mn good.

[@Kris-ex6yk]

Couldn’t find the epiphone sg to try out in person. Is the neck on it nice and slim compared to Les Paul style neck? Thanks! Awesome demo!

[@RichWordsMusic]

I think they're quite rare, these ones - I never see them in stores either. And yes, its neck is nice and slim compared to a thicker LP one... I think you'd like it! Cheers and rock on :)

[@ThierrySecqueville]

I would have thought that the Les Paul would have more midrange and bass than the SG but it's the opposite. The SG has more midrange and bass. This gives it more bite during the attack. The sound is more complete, I think. Does SG exist in another color? I prefer the SG. ------------------------------------------ J'aurais pensé que la Les Paul aurait plus de medium et de grave que la SG mais c'est le contraire. La SG a plus de medium et de grave. Cela lui donne plus de mordant lors de l'attaque. Le son est plus complet, je trouve. La SG existe-t elle dans une autre couleur ? Je préfère la SG.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Yes Thierry, the SG is available in Worn Cherry too (which I also think looks fantastic!): www.epiphone.com/Guitar/EPI9YL50/SG-Classic-Worn-P-90s/Worn-Cherry It's funny, but I agree - you would imagine the bigger, thicker body on the Harley Benton would give it a thicker tone with more low-end. But it doesn't! I think the pickups might make a big difference too though.

[@eRacing_driver_Jaco]

In my opinion, the Epiphone has still the edge about mid-low tone. If the mooded HB can saved a lot, then it makes sense. Otherwise I would pick up the Epiphone. To play lots of riffs the Epiphone is a better choice. The standard HB makes sense to be picked up if you want to do lots of leads.

[@RichWordsMusic]

That's a good way to look at it, I agree - the HB is definitely more of a melodic, single note guitar for me. And as I personally don't play a lot of solos at all, that also makes me lean towards the Epiphone. I'm happy to own the Epiphone, as it's an extremely fun (and light) guitar to play!

[@eRacing_driver_Jaco]

@@RichWordsMusic I own that Epiphone as well. It's exactly like the single p90 sg made by HB. If you play a classic Acdc riff, on the Epiphone It sounds exactly as on the record. The HB doesn't. Yet It sounds good, only thinner. I think it is still great value for money and maybe with a proper setup and new tuners machine, It is still a reasonable option. Have a nice day Rich! cheers

[@nubaduby2]

The sg is darker, the body is slimmer and without a cover on top, like the les Paul models, it makes the sound different. with more mid. I like the two sounds, but they are different, it's good to have both guitars .jjjj Please do a reggae test with your two les paul with the sg to see what happens. I would like to hear that experiment thanks.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Ooh, that would be a challenge for me as I don't really play reggae, but I will try and borrow the gold top again and try! That could be very cool. You're right that the SG has a different tonality to it, and I'm sure the smaller body really makes a difference. So the correct answer is... you need both! :)

[@nubaduby2]

You try this kzbin.info/www/bejne/fKGQc6BuoNGKhrs Only Dm and Am for a good skank just play the 1,2,3,4 or 1,2,3 strings on the barre chord. Mighty Diamonds Leaders of the black countryes. Is very easy. in the middle of the track there are some large enough parts where the guitar does not sound and can be played on top. THANKS

[@RichWordsMusic]

@@nubaduby2 This is a great tip, and a good one to try! It's not at all complicated but the guitar sounds great. And I bet it takes some time to master the timing and technique!

[@nubaduby2]

This is great little lesson for start. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bpeaZId_eNB5gac If you are interested in reggae I can send you authentic links that I think are serious from great guitarists. thanks

[@PHeMoX]

I think it's perhaps an unfair comparison when intonation wasn't done on the Epiphone SG. I mean, I just finished setup on my Ibanez QX52 headless especially intonation and it matters the world. I now just want to keep playing, because there are no out of tune notes anymore for higher notes. This matters the world. I also own a Harley Benton TE-70RW Deluxe, that's actually still waiting for a more proper full setup. And it is basically just unused. It sounds great, but fret buzz in some spots and intonation issues made me want to play my other guitars. Yes, I am aware there's a ~900 bucks difference in price between my Ibanez and the Harley Benton, however if you shield the inside of the HB to prevent noise and do a full setup, they are ultimately hard to beat for their very low price. In this particular comparison though, I'd probably go with the Epiphone SG Classic P90 instead.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Great comment, and yes, you're totally right - the SG would be taken up a notch with a pro setup, for sure. And it's already really decent without one of those! I have plenty of HB guitars too, and I agree - with a setup, they can compete with much more expensive instruments. It's the law of diminishing returns: an HB might cost 10% of the USA-made guitar it's based on, but the USA guitar won't be 10 times as good!

[@DesertScorpionKSA]

They both sound good but the Epiphone sounds more like what a Gibson P90 guitar sounds like. It has more beef and growl than the Harley Benton.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Yeah, that sums it up pretty well for me. The Epi Pro pickups are actually really good, and they're versatile too! They really love a bit of crunch. Would love to test the HB with some more substantial pickups one day too. Thanks for watching :)

[@DesertScorpionKSA]

@@RichWordsMusic It looks like the Harley Benton SC-450 P90 Gold Top has ceramic pickups: www.thomannmusic.com/harley_benton_sc_450_p90_gt_classic_series.htm. The Harley Benton SC-Special has Alnico V P90s: www.thomannmusic.com/harley_benton_sc_special_tv_yellow.htm.

[@666Ekinox]

Seems like the epiphone has more gain (volume) So it's tricky to the ears, but the benton as this less controled factor that I really like.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Yep, the Epiphone's pickups are definitely a little hotter, so that makes a difference. I agree about the HB though, as you wind up the gain the lower output pickups do have this slightly more chaotic nature which I think sounds great! The Epi is more at home there, but sometimes less control leads to more vital tones...

[@666Ekinox]

@@RichWordsMusic Exactly what I was thinking! i wnet to irder the HB yesterday and it's sold out. Should have ordered it weeks ago.

[@RichWordsMusic]

@@666Ekinox Yeah, someone else told me the HB is listed as sold out on Thomann... I'm pretty sure they'll get more or they'll be releasing a new 2021 version, so either way you'll be able to get one at some point. I hope you manage to find one somehow! (You can still order the packs at Thomann, with the guitar + accessories, with a wait of 11-14 weeks - this is why I'm pretty sure there will be more one day!)

[@666Ekinox]

@@RichWordsMusic Yes i've written to them yesterday and they'll have it by the end of febuary! can't wait! I have the Sc custom black, and I like it alot. want to record an album with the sc on one side and the p90 on the other

[@-zph]

it’s very useful review for me. Thank you so much. Harley sounds great.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Thanks a lot, glad you found it useful! Yes, the HB is such a classy and elegant guitar, and so versatile :) I love it.

[@-zph]

@@RichWordsMusic I bought it ))

[@albertmarkethinkpr1325]

I like em both

[@RichWordsMusic]

Me too... I need to persuade my friend to sell me that Gold Top ;)

[@chrisgeo1642]

The epi p90s sound like p90s articulate with a hint of growl. The HBs got a bit muddy on the low end and on the highs had sone sizzle but not in a good way. So if we look at upgrading the p90s the price point is now higher then the epiphone. If someone’s budget is limited the HB wasn’t terrible but to bring it to the level of the epi it’s going to cost more than just buying the epi

[@garymcaleer6112]

Epi has depth. Benton is shallow.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Agreed on everything apart from the clean neck pickup sounds, where I think the HB is pretty fat. The depth of the Epi P90s is great all-round though.

[@catapl93]

Yeah, but for the price difference you can put two gibson p90's in it

[@221b-l3t]

​@@catapl93Or even better Toneriders and you have 150 leftover to buy another HB.

[@idkwhattocallthisaccount9660]

The SG sounded like it almost had some of that Telecaster twang, which is pretty cool

[@RichWordsMusic]

Yeah, it can kind of do that! I really dig this guitar. It's way more versatile than I thought it would be, and that bite and twanginess really works well in some settings for me. Others might say it sounds thin, but I enjoy it!

[@Bliggick]

Those Harley Bentons aren't all that much cheaper than Epiphones once you pay for the shipping and import charges, not to mention the cost of the mods and setup that was done to the guitar in this video.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Yep, free shipping here in Europe but elsewhere it does get a lot more costly, that's a good point. And with these mods, you're right, the two guitars are pretty much the same price. If they were the same price here from the shop new, had I tested both there and then I'm pretty sure I'd have gone with the Epi.

[@marcomostroso]

Yeah! p90s! Impressive what both can do on high gain also. Thanks

[@RichWordsMusic]

Thought you'd enjoy this one!

[@marcomostroso]

@@RichWordsMusic Very much indeed! Epiphone is stepping up its game, but HB is still impressive.

[@RichWordsMusic]

@@marcomostroso I'm getting excited about what Epiphone 2021 is going to look like. Normally they'd announce the new lineup each January for the NAMM Show :) And now thy have to keep on proving they're worth paying more money for than HB!

[@marcomostroso]

@@RichWordsMusic Exactly! And I think they are definitely accomplishing that!

[@davidledford3522]

Every guitar that i buy to keep i sand the neck down to raw wood and put tru oil on it the absolute best mod i shape them to fit my hand perfectly with a shinto file then sand lightly be carful though i went too thin on an ovation copy once and as soon as it fell it broke off the headstock

[@andiebetjemann7920]

To me the Clean Sounds of the HB SC are More pleasant. The Crunch Sounds of the Epiphone seem to be More punching. I used to have a SC 450 P90, but since the beginning of the this Channel i regret selling it. My Dilemma now, despite of Epiphones better Reputation of their 2020 Guitars, Harley Benton offers now the SC Special.... I am looking Forward to any Demos in that, but i remember preferring the chunkier Neck of the SC 450 P90 compared to Other Junior-Style Guitars.

[@RichWordsMusic]

I also have the SC Special dilemma! I would love to try that guitar. Maybe I will try and get hold of one, and if I do I will demo it here. It looks fantastic, and I think it might also have a nice neck profile, similar to the SC-450, although I'm not certain. The Thomann website says C, just like the SC-450... I agree about the sounds and I think the SC-450 has slightly more classic clean tones, a bit less harsh overall. The Epiphone certainly seems to have a bit more output, and that would also explain the extra punch on the crunch and high gain sounds.

[@andiebetjemann7920]

@@RichWordsMusic I have Seen Pictures of a modded DC Junior, where they have added a P90 in the Neck. Do you miss a Neck Pickup in your Ferris?

[@RichWordsMusic]

@@andiebetjemann7920 Yes, I kind of miss a neck pickup sometimes! When I tested the SC-450 and the Ferris together, this was an obvious thing and a big advantage of the two pickup models. When I play the Ferris guitar though, I only really play things that suit that guitar... you can try and replicate the neck pickup (turn down the tone knob, pplay the strings nearer the fingerboard) but it's no replication of the real thing. And I love a good neck pickup!

[@alanst.4417]

@@RichWordsMusic that's my dilemma, too, guys. Does a single pickup make difference in sustain, volume or tone in your experience?

[@RichWordsMusic]

@@alanst.4417 Well, fans of Esquires will always tell you it does! The closest I've come to a direct comparison is the DC Junior against the SC-450 goldtop, and because the DC pickup is stacked, it kind of didn't feel fair. I'll be borrowing the SC-450 again next week though and will shoot it out against the SC Junior, and maybe we'll have more of an answer! Also, I can thoroughly recommend this Rhett Shull video on single pickup guitars - he goes into the (pseudo?)science of it a little, and it's quite interesting: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fHqbnWx4eLSgY7c

[@akwamarsunzal]

Nice A/B comparison. Sadly, I couldn´t own either. The HB is good but I already have a Cort gold top and it smashes a Gibson LP. The SG I liked more but green? GREEN? No thanks! ;-)

[@RichWordsMusic]

Thanks! Ha ha, I'm a sucker for green guitars, but I know not everyone agrees with me there ;) It does come in a more acceptable Cherry red too! I've heard a lot of good stuff about Cort, so need to try some this year... which model do you have?

[@akwamarsunzal]

@@RichWordsMusic Oohhh well, a green fetish is not as bad as some fetishes right! Cherry red is a bit blasse but I like it ;-) I got the Cort 200GT... If you get the chance give it a go, or any Cort for that matter... They are amazing guitars and play really nicely.

[@RichWordsMusic]

@@akwamarsunzal That looks like a great guitar for the money... and there's a sparkly blue one too! Yes, I love blue guitars even more than green ones (sorry!). I'll try and see if I can get to play one sometime this year, so thanks for the tip!

[@alanst.4417]

@@RichWordsMusic I'm down for Cort guitars, too. Got 2 (G250 strat and Earth 100 acoustic) and both are really great value.

[@RichWordsMusic]

@@alanst.4417 Yeah, I've researched them a bit since these messages and they seem really well specced out for the money! Once the guitar shops open here again I'll see if I can get out and try one or two out I think. Always interested to try new things out...

[@azharhail2481]

I Love these guitar but men the price in malaysia i can't afford I only can afford to watch you playing these guitar nice video by the way🤘🏻

[@RichWordsMusic]

Glad you liked the video anyway Azhar, cheers! Such a shame that these instruments are not an option for you or other players in Malaysia. I hope one day this changes and you manage to get your hands on one!

[@azharhail2481]

Yea sir i really hope that they also have cheapest one Epiphone SL but I don't really like it hopefully one-day I can get my dream guitar. Merry Xmas🎄🥳

[@RichWordsMusic]

@@azharhail2481 Yeah, the SL is not on the same level as these guitars! I also hope one day you can get your dream guitar... a merry Christmas to you too!

[@StudioChimiel]

@EytschPi42 told me I can´t like Gibson, so it´s the Harley Benton for me :)

[@RichWordsMusic]

He tells everyone that! ;) But yeah, under those rules HB wins every time. By the way, I have just thought of an incredible idea regarding a signature Harley Benton in a wonderful, refreshing color scheme.

[@martinlahaie6012]

Be serious man....this guy is a sell off

[@aliengrey6052]

For the clean HB wets all over the epi. So much more dynamic. The epi seems dead and flat. Same for the overdriven tones. Thomann did it again.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Yeah, these HBs are something special. I agree about the cleans and the lighter crunches, but I think the Epi comes into it more at mid to higher gain settings. Still can't believe how much spec Thomann can squeeze into these guitars for the price though...

[@resqgear1918]

Don't forget to hit the subscribe button folks! Rich & I are having a race to the first 1000 subs, and I assure you, that you don't want me to win! Get this guy to a 1000 subs, he deserves it! #RaceTo1000 Also, hi Rich! Lovely video as always! Haven't had guitar-GAS for a long time, but that Epiphone is really doing it for me for some reason! :o However, the Harley Benton is really not something to laugh at out of stock, so with Uwe giving it some love, i can only imagine how it feels! As i said, good video and keep em' coming mate!

[@RichWordsMusic]

Yes, everybody watching this please help me beat Victor and ResQ Gear in the #RaceTo1000! It's a friendly race but I want to win it... looks like he's well ahead right now though. You know what, please sub to us both, and we'll cross the 1000 line together :) And thanks! Yeah, I hadn't had an SG in years before I saw this Classic Worn model getting unveiled at NAMM in January... the color sold it to me straight away. And when I found this one (actually I got it on the drive up to Henning's for 42GS, it was with me at the hotel!) I knew I had to pull the trigger. I'm going to get Uwe to set it up the way he's done his HB too, and then it'll be absolutely killer. I'm so close to actually just buying the SC-450 too... I'm trying every week to get Uwe to sell me this one, but he's holding firm at the moment ;) I understand why, because it's so good!

[@PooNinja]

Love the green color but the SG’s just never fit me right.

[@RichWordsMusic]

See my first proper guitar was an Epiphone SG, so it just feels normal for me! But this one would work just as wall art anyway, it's so pretty.

[@grantkoeller8911]

I don't know what's up, they sounded identical to my ears!!!! I'm a 58 year old professional jazz saxophonist for the last 48 years.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Well, they do sound very similar to me on some settings, but I think in person you'd hear the subtleties more than on KZbin. On the higher gain stuff, when the signal is more compressed, they sound very similar to me, but on the clean sounds, the neck pickup on the HB is quite a bit fatter and pushes the amp a lot more. The Epi sounds kind of thin in comparison. I guess the other thing is... I probably would struggle to tell the difference between two similar saxophones! I played trumpet at school, but that's as close as I got :) Thanks for watching!

[@grantkoeller8911]

It seems both guitars could get the job accomplished. Perfect for gigging. We're these 4 bolt necks, or glued necks?

[@RichWordsMusic]

@@grantkoeller8911 They're both glued necks. I'm amazed that Harley Benton can build guitars like that for around $150... the SC-450 even has a deeper heel joint than a traditional Les Paul, giving you better upper fret access. You can see it in the pictures on the Thomann site: www.thomann.de/harley_benton_sc_450_p90_gt_classic_series.htm?partner_id=54744 And yes, I'd say that with a setup these two are ideal for gigs where you need a classy look and a wide range of sounds. I'd pick the SG over the Harley Benton I think, because it weighs about half of what the Harley Benton does, and it balances nicely on a strap too. For pure elegance though, the HB's gold top wins.

[@grantkoeller8911]

@@RichWordsMusic Why would anyone spend $2900 on a Gibson Les Paul when this Harley Benton is $150???? It seems Gibson is way over charging!!!!!

[@RichWordsMusic]

@@grantkoeller8911 In some ways I understand it (although yes, Gibson is most definitely pricing their guitars in the 'luxury' segment!). You're getting the prestige of a classic brand, and I think many guitarists grew up idolizing Gibson guitars and the rockstars who played them. And they're made in the USA, and supposedly with finer components and quality control. In reality though, Gibson's recent quality control problems have been well documented. The other side of that is that Harley Benton and other budget brands are sometimes looked down on by players, and have a stigma. I've been guilty of that attitude in the past. Overall, I think a good Gibson will be better than the best Harley Bentons... but not 20 times as good, as the price could suggest! I think with Gibson and other higher end guitars, you're often paying for the brand, the psychological factor ("if I buy an expensive guitar the same as my favorite player I'll be more inspired and play better myself") and maybe a 5-10% better physical playing experience. And each player has to decide whether that's worth it to them. (Just from my side, the most expensive guitar I own is a Japanese Fender Strat, which cost me €900 used. I don't have the money for a USA Gibson or even an American Fender, but I think if I did, I'd certainly try some out and consider them as an addition to the affordable guitars I own.) Sorry for the massive reply, I enjoyed typing that though!

[@svyat8746]

Даже клятая русская нефть не помешает мне приобрести этот Epiphone из зелёного дерева,очень уж он мне в душу запал :) Thank you for your reviews!I really like it.

[@RichWordsMusic]

Thanks for watching, glad you enjoyed it! Yeah, this Epiphone is something special - as soon as I saw it earlier this year, I knew I had to have it ;)

[@svyat8746]

@@RichWordsMusic I'm also with the Epiphone SG Muse, but I had to buy two Gibson SG guitars,and now it's Muse, then Worn-the plans are Grand!:)

[@RichWordsMusic]

@@svyat8746 Wow, that's quite a family of SGs you're building then, awesome! I would love to try the Muse too, and one day I hope to get a Gibson SG Standard. They're brilliant guitars and they should be way more popular!

[@svyat8746]

@@RichWordsMusic There is a certain charm in the fact that they are not very popular :) I have a Gibson SG Standard 1995, successfully bought in the summer, now there are very few of them.I love this project very much.The influence of the HIM group and the interest in the SG form from childhood affected.Looking at musicians with guitars of this shape, I always wondered- " What an unusual shape..how do they even play it? " I was 10-11 years old. Can you tell me how to take care of guitars without varnish?I was advised in the store Dunlop cream of carnauba, but it seems to me that this is not quite the right tool for my SGJ 2014-it is without varnish.

[@RichWordsMusic]

@@svyat8746 I agree - everyone has Les Pauls, but only a select few the SG :) For me, it was Angus Young, but also Kelly Jones from the Stereophonics who I first saw with an SG, I guess around 97/98. And so my first 'serious' guitar was an Epiphone Bully SG, which I still have 20 year later. I will never sell it. So satin guitars you should only clean with a dry cloth - this is the advice I was given. If the guitar is really dirty, you could consider making a cloth damp, but only in extreme circumstances (and then dry it afterwards straight away). Otherwise, keep it dry! I think if you use polish or wax, it will make the guitar shinier over time.

[@marcmadler454]

first

[@RichWordsMusic]

Yes, congrats, you win this time!

[@marcmadler454]

@@RichWordsMusic I just got my second Spirit of Rock and it sounds great in my stereo Wet Dry Setup! I have spent alreaddy 4 hours today with stereo „ping-pong“ delay...🤣 Its so adictive!

[@RichWordsMusic]

@@marcmadler454 Oh man, I'd love to have a go on that! Do you have any sound clips or videos to share?

[@marcmadler454]

@@RichWordsMusic If you give me your E Mail Adress I can send you some tracks.