GOLD Standard for Budget Basses? | Harley Benton 25th Anniversary Enhanced Bass [Review/Demo]

[@michaelkeefer4293]

Yeah, I think that bass would be perfect if they kept it passive. Just vol/vol/tone or vol/bal/tone with a series/single/parallel switch for the humbucker would have made this bass much more versatile instead of a cheap preamp. Still, it is amazing what HB can offer for the price.

[@JonnyDibble]

Yesssss. That would be brilliant!

[@juffurey]

well there's also a 25th anniversary jazz bass and it's passive...

[@mx5534]

Fit in a ToneMonster Preamp (SBK-3 or SBK-3D with hi mids/low mids) and believe me this will sound almost as close as the Sandberg "alternative" model!

[@JohnGalarza-zq2re]

They don’t know about Tone Monster, I put one on my Sire V7!! It’s like night and day

[@HarleyBentonOfficial]

Sweet tones Jonny!

[@JonnyDibble]

Thanks gang! Plays like butter

[@marcusparnell2403]

Totally agree about the preamp. Really wanted to love this. Your videos are getting better and better 🔥

[@JonnyDibble]

Thanks Marcus!

[@kharybaker868]

Modded mine pretty much the first week I got it; Nordstrand NP4A and Big SplitMan with the 3B-4A preamp. Definitely a great modding platform.

[@tonemonkey98371]

I did similar, but I re-routed the neck pickup for another MM, installed Bartolini quad coils and installed an Audere preamp.

[@kharybaker868]

@@tonemonkey98371 niiice....I've been kinda tempted to route another MM in my natural Enhanced. That one has Nordstrand Big Blademan and Power Blade with a Lusithand Double NFP preamp.

[@KimSE4]

@@tonemonkey98371 So... you've got a budget Wal then?! Nice one!!!!!

[@TheChrist117]

Firstly, thanks for the review - very helpful indeed. I ordered one of these from Thomann as I've been looking for an instrument with this pickup config. for a while. I must say, I was very impressed with the build quality (only one or two fret-sprouts). However, although the set-up was good, I simply couldn't get it to 'wow-play-mode'. Nevertheless, I've owned Fenders that didn't feel this good. The main downfall, the deal-breaker was that I couldn't find 'that sound'. I tried really hard to get there but my conclusion is that the pickups just don't do it for me. I remember when the previous 'Enhanced' versions were introduced, Gregor Fris (Basstheworld) commented that he'd like to see HB make a more expensive version with better pickups - he may have suggested Delano's - I think he has something here; a pity that HB didn't listen. I could've kept the bass and done the job myself but I simply don't want to faff around. I wasn't happy with the preamp but conversely, couldn't find a decent passive sound, either. The bass certainly does have some excellent features though and I think would be a killer with some decent pickups and preamp - the whole package just misses the mark, IMHO.

[@tr607]

I have the 25th jazz bass and it's fantastic. I wanted a passive bass as I already have a Yamaha TRBX 604 that is active/passive. Wanted something basic and that jazz is REALLY nice for the price.

[@JonnyDibble]

Awesome!

[@juffurey]

it's awesome but the neck and fretboard are nothing like a jazz bass, which is part of what makes a jazz bass a jazz bass??

[@KimSE4]

Honestly though, if that's the configuration you want MM/P then there's not really any other options without going for a Sandberg, as far as I know. If the passive tones are good then it's a helluva bass and the fact it's already routed out for a battery means it's an AMAZING mod platform, as you say. If it was available in 5-string I'd actually consider getting one - I've just gone off four strings these days TBH. Cheers for the video, nice one!

[@diluteduk]

You can get 5 string versions. It's just called the MP5 instead of 4.

[@KimSE4]

@@diluteduk I mean... it's nice but it doesn't have that roasted maple neck and that's a tasty lump of wood...

[@tonemonkey98371]

I do remember getting a much better sound in active mode by rolling off the voume a bit. The preamp is too hot when the volume is full up.

[@mandalorthedeaf1237]

Seems to be pretty much like the enhanced series. I have a five string version hanging on my wall but, yeah, it's there because the pick ups are not convincing and the preamp doesn't save it. 😅I haven't decided if I want to mod or sell it. 😂 They still seem to have the same problems obviously. Such a shame. Because it looks gorgeous.

[@eguitarplayer6689]

It looks like a great deal. Thanks for the demo.

[@i94yeh2p]

Sweet! It's nice to see more reviews on this bass. I luv the color and everything about it is just calling out to me. :)

[@GentilBassRedux]

I bought this bass as soon as it came on the market but was disappointed and chose to return it. The chrome plating of the tuners was faulty and there were oxidation spots. The pickup was misaligned. I also own two JB75MNs and I find their quality, despite the price of 169€, to be higher. I don't understand what justifies a difference of 330€.

[@masterquan4891]

Love to see you do a Mod to this Bass, it would likely be amazing. I love the passive tone, but I have roll back the active tone it's just way to hot and boomie.

[@JonnyDibble]

@@masterquan4891 had to be sent back unfortunately! Just had it on loan

[@meyersguitars2196]

By far the best looking HB I’ve seen yet!

[@JonnyDibble]

I love gollllllld

[@meyersguitars2196]

@@JonnyDibble me too. I love it so much the last two basses I built were gold.

[@delcogoonquad]

sounds like the preamp is clipping? i have the same issue on my enhanced 5 (the natural finish version) oh and the zero fret was nickel while the rest are stainless.

[@JonnyDibble]

Yeah. Bass control is far too hot!

[@mchehabcd4512]

will you do a review on the Harley Benton 25th Anniversary Jazz Bass?

[@paulnoden7982]

I've got a lefty version winging its way over to Blighty right now funnily enough. First thing I'll be doing is throwing the electronics and pickups out and replacing them with Aguilar kit. Even after that it'll still be cheaper than the Sandbergs it's trying to ape! lol

[@JonnyDibble]

Great shout! Let me know how it turns out 😁

[@cardynkenneth6572]

what a great sound , and that neck reminds me of the marcus miller p5

[@nataliesweet668]

It sucks that this doesn’t come in a deep blue or blueish grey cause im looking for a bass that matches my preferred colors so i can display it as well as play it without it clashing with my style.

[@charukpete8906]

Thanks for the Honest review and Indeed, that is what I expected and heard, a somewhat weak Preamp and not as refined a tone as say a Squire Contemporary Jazz Bass

[@lavaxtris]

Preamp sounds better if the tone knobs are both completely off. I really don't think the middle knob position is true "flat".

[@andreasvet4461]

Beautiful instrument. Great passive tones. The pre amp though 😬

[@JonnyDibble]

Agreed 🙂🥲

[@LukeMosse]

When you switch to active obviously you need to change the amp settings.

[@tonemonkey98371]

How much did this one weigh? I have one of the original enhanced PM's and it was right around 9.6 lbs. I modified that one and want to get one of these as well, I just don't want to shell out almost $500 for a boat anchor that I can't readily return.

[@lucastperez]

How heavy is this bass? I've heard the normal Enhanced MP bass is a little bit on the heavier side, although not a heavy bass, and since this 25th anniversary looks pretty much like the normal standard MP enhanced, my guess it is probably the same? Something like 9,5 ~ 9,7 lbs? It does look very beautiful, though!

[@VHToff0li]

The active preamp just overwhelms the sound. It only found it nice for slap since both treble/bass boosted kinda makes a mid scoop. But even so, this sounds pretty ready to gig. Amazing what HB can offer at such low cost. I wish I had this brand here in Brasil.

[@JonnyDibble]

Mad isn't it! Yeah for me the bass control is too much

[@horim80]

it seems there are too much volume gap between active and passive..

[@craiganderson6880]

Excellent demo!

[@JonnyDibble]

Thanks!

[@leighcoulson2148]

Some nice sounds ...actually liked it best passive but active without bass boost, both flat and treble boost are fine. Not my favourite colour but the neck is really nice.

[@JonnyDibble]

Passive is always the way forward for affordable basses I think. Cheers!

[@1thess523]

That headstock doesn't look as long as some of the others which is what kinda turned me off about their basses. A headstock is a make or break for me, this bass looks and sounds pretty sweet 👍

[@DPAIN86]

At some point will you do another HX Stomp Video so we can see how your eq your GK patch

[@JonnyDibble]

Yes! I'll definitely do that

[@SisterRose]

Reminds me of when I was trying out a Sterling SUB - maybe it has the same problem where the preamp is wired post volume knob?

[@JonnyDibble]

I find my sterling sub doesn't have the same issue, the preamp is just a bit weak imo

[@masterquan4891]

@@JonnyDibble Out of the do you like the 25th better than the sub4? Each have their issue, but the wife says one has to go...I figure the Sub has to go if that is the case. I know the Sub is a great mod platform but I assume so is the the Enhanced? What do you recommend?

[@JonnyDibble]

@ kinda prefer the sub overall tbh

[@SisterRose]

@@JonnyDibble i'm still weighing up whether to get a SUB or Z3. The Z3 has the nice rolled edges and all, but a real chunky neck. That might actually help me get my hand around the 5 string better(I struggle with flat wide guitars and tend to have an easier time with a thicker neck) so I might try that, but I do like the SUB necks. I just wish there was a genuine "Between" model since the 24 is just the same with different wood

[@mr_ozzio5095]

Yep its a mixed bag, but a very solid bass as you said for modding out the electronics..😎

[@JonnyDibble]

It's close to being amazing

[@2abasscafe]

That thing looks killer dude!

[@JonnyDibble]

They've nailed the aesthetics of the 25th line 😍

[@sebastiaanhoenderdos7458]

I'm in the process of choosing my next bass is going to be this one or a sire P5 such one would you choose In terms of playability and quality? Not in versitility

[@JonnyDibble]

Hmmmmm. That's very tough. Playability HB, quality Sire. Very unhelpful SORRY 😅

[@sebastiaanhoenderdos7458]

​@@JonnyDibblethanks for the info! It's actually quite helpful, depending on which i would prioritize. Though it fits surprises me the HB wins on playability, my best guess was going p5 with the fancy fret-ends and fingerboard edge.

[@JonnyDibble]

@@sebastiaanhoenderdos7458 I think the HB plays better out of the box in terms of set-up, but the Sire neck feels nicer to hold. Bigger neck but comfy due to the rolling

[@sebastiaanhoenderdos7458]

@@JonnyDibble that's really helpful, thanks! A set up van be fixed and I'm coming from a double bass, chunky neck shouldn't be a problem, I think I've made my mind up.

[@kevinturvey8213]

Sire ftw - a much higher quality instrument all round

[@degeest5571]

I thought it sounded good passive. Preamp sounded like it was pushing too hard and distorting the sound. Beautiful bass though.

[@JonnyDibble]

Yeah the preamp is the let down

[@SombraDeLaMosca]

I think you shoudn't go for full volume in active mode. I play my active basses (Fender P SE, Jazz de luxe) the highest at 75%, otherwise the gain is too strong. Same could be here. But nevertheless amazing bass, that beautiful neck want me to buy one =) Nice video, thanx!

[@JonnyDibble]

Good advice! Didn't th8nk to try that for some reason. Cheers😊

[@tonzokinawa]

Wonder if there’s a gain pot inside! That would be handy

[@kharybaker868]

@@tonzokinawa definitely would be handy, but unfortunately it doesn't have one.

[@bassimprovjams3772]

Man if this would have been released in a 5er I’d already have one! Their beautiful looking basses!! I’m not a P pup Guy but I really like this, I don’t mind a P tone with like a J pup in the neck position but for some reason I just don’t like the look of a P pup, ridiculous I know

[@JonnyDibble]

A 5er would've been very cool! They do the jazz too, I reckon they just did their too most popular models

[@presentrlb]

Looking to buy one of these but can't find one. Want to sell yours?

[@geraldp494]

Jonny please review "SABBRA CADABRA " Pedal on Bass 😊

[@4deuce31]

It looks like a Charvel or ESP. Pretty cool on a budget.

[@revlewisrees9880]

Does the preamp have a gain setting on it that can be adjusted?

[@JonnyDibble]

Not as far as I'm aware

[@60degreelobwedge82]

You can't trust any Harley Benton review when Thomann sent the reviewer the instrument. The guitars they send reviewers have been selected for best quality and likely have also had a setup. I've seen first hand the crap they send their average customers.

[@greyfoxzero]

The P pickup is way too hot for this preamp. Its actually a very good pickup but should be for passive setups.

[@markdbenson75]

I appreciate businesses making basses at a reasonable price point, but I really can’t understand for the life of me how on earth Thomann rubber stamped the release of a bass that sounds so poor when in active mode and with no tone control in passive mode. Why did Thomann not intervene in the final design stage and request the active circuit be changed or removed entirely?

[@louiscornale5667]

Great but how about wooly bully watch it now 😮

[@Stoffendous]

Jonny what have u done with your lanyard?

[@JonnyDibble]

Gone back with the bass!

[@Stoffendous]

@@JonnyDibble You miss the lanyard?

[@scottmcaleese1948]

I'm probably wrong but this may be the first bass I've seen with the switched position p bass pickups since Marks Hoppus' signature? Jolly great playing as always, Jonny! *tips hat*

[@Stewr306]

Spector

[@garethjones3979]

Yamaha BB

[@JonnyDibble]

Lots of brands are doing it nowadays, but Mark was the first I saw!

[@baltayoshi]

Absolutely agree with your review. Nothing you said is exaggerated. I bought it today and sending it back. The sound was terrible. The build quality was very good and the aestethics, but you cannot play with only looks. Very dissapointing.

[@Musikleidenschaft]

Yes, buy it as a modding platform and Invest even more money for a good sound .... OR get a G&L Tribute instead and have a great Bass + great sounds immediately. Up to you

[@williamallfrey577]

How heavy is it? How does it balance?

[@JonnyDibble]

About 9.2 lbs, balances totally fine 😊

[@masterquan4891]

@@JonnyDibble Mine came in at 9.0 lbs no balance issues.

[@emodespacher]

A 5-string version of this bass would be perfect

[@tonzokinawa]

If only it came in other colors…they should make this a standard bass with color options. P and MM pickup is ideal in my opinion!

[@JonnyDibble]

They do it on blue and natural as a standard version 😊

[@tonzokinawa]

@@JonnyDibble but not with that sexy roasted neck 😉

[@klaymeister]

When you don't put a MM pickup in the right spot, it doesn't sound right. I would probably just use the P pickup sadly.

[@JonnyDibble]

Bridge pickup positioning is so key

[@Arthur_dl]

Shit i just bought a shekter steath for a quite a higher price and seeing this, i'm starting to regret it. 😅

[@kevinturvey8213]

i got one - neck is looong and thin. few very minor QC blemishes on finish. definitely not ready to go out of the box set up wise. bit concerned about the non straight pull angle of E string to tuning peg. pickups very hot. one of the saddle fixing screws stripped on first adjustment. gig bag is terrible - very cheap and thin and smells awful. don't believe the hype - you'd be better off with a sire for the money

[@TheChrist117]

Sire's - on fire! I love my V5. If Sire came up with something with a MM/J pickup config. it would make my day. Are you listening Sire?

[@Stoffendous]

But hows the lanyard?

[@iamgribs]

It sounds decent passive but damn that preamp is bad.

[@robjones7725]

Yes, the active bass sounds were fuzzy! Also, no tone control in passive mode is a big deal breaker for me. Nice spec and looks though. Pass.

[@JonnyDibble]

Wish it was a passive tone monster

[@alanhearne6733]

Great review... However I should point out that 25 year anniversary is silver... Gold is for 50 years... Just saying 🤷‍♂️

[@JonnyDibble]

Why didn't we get silverburst 😭

[@spencerh1428]

Heard it played by others....technique goes a long way.

[@martinheath5947]

It would be useful and advantageous to play demos without the fancy pedal involved ie straight into an audio interface or into an amp in the room because the haters might be objecting to your eq/amp settings.

[@JonnyDibble]

I do tend to do that now! I avoided it here because I didn’t want to make a 30 minute video going through the whole bass twice essentially 🤪 For the haters: The amp EQ is flat

[@yanniskalt4062]

it sounds really bad on active its a shame its better to buy the normal version and get rid the preamp .

[@JonnyDibble]

Better if it was just passive I reckon

[@midlifekris-is]

Yeah i 5 string version if this and i'd be all over it.

[@geraldp494]

As far as Playability is go with the Squier Jaguar Bass

[@jessicamoore9422]

Finally fell for the hype and bought a hb 25th jazz and it was dreadful in every way.Nothing much if at all has changed.

[@peekaboo4390]

Bridge pup and pre are the weak points of this otherwise very well appointed bass.

[@coffeenowmyson]

SPONSORED by thomann

[@daveandrews5485]

Never liked gold guitars, sorry. Black masking tape fret markers on a roasted neck don’t work! The sounds are either muddy or harsh and metallic. Thank god it’s cheap. There’s something hanging out of your nose Jonny…

[@JonnyDibble]

You will be sorry (I jest)

[@o-g-ob4399]

Beautiful bass, but has no depth of tone and sounds horrible! Anyone saying it sounds good must not know what great basses sound like!

[@Jesuswinsbirdofmichigan]

#122_AppreciateCommentersOpinions_ImStayinAwayFromThisModel🇺🇸🇮🇱✝️

[@stevedunch581]

Preamp sounds yucky 🤢

[@johannesalcade1391]

You are sure you know how to play!!!! because of you i'll never buy one!!!!!Harley must choose real bass player to sell their basses to my mind you're not

[@JonnyDibble]

You are too kind x