Harley Benton SC 550 vs Gibson Les Paul Review | $270 vs $1,200

[@ericknapp4352]

Moral of the story: Gibson's are just ridiculously over-priced, and unless you are obsessed with the name on your headstock, a Harley Benton will get the job done just fine and leave a nice large chunk of change in your pocket for buying a great amp.

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks for your opinion and comment. I don't agree that the Gibson Tribute line is overpriced. $1,000 for a lifetime guitar and (IMHO) much richer sound - clean especially. For me (not necessarily others) it's a perfect weight, balance, finish and everything. BUT, I do agree that the HB is exceedingly well-priced. Not much one can do with the neck carve and weight, but throw in the right Seymour Duncans (or whatever is your top choice) for $300 or less and you've got a great sounding guitar that plays pretty well. One of the best inexpensive LP copies I have played!

[@hadeseye2297]

New pups, lots of pedals, cables and strings. And a visit at luthier. And good supper with your girl.

[@jmo1366]

Les Paul Tribute model will mop the floor w a Harley Benton.. lol what a joke.

[@ericknapp4352]

@@jmo1366 I own both, and you couldn't be more wrong.

[@jmo1366]

@@ericknapp4352 I own a 2017 Tribute (pre- maple neck thank God), and Ive seen the Harley Bentons.. Keep dreaming buddy. Bentons are glorified Epis. Id rather have an Epi.. Its a good guitar for its price. Nothing more, nothing less. All the comments on these vids make me laugh. Like it says it in the vid.. "Is this a fair comparison? (chuckles) No its not, but...."

[@iannicholls7476]

The Gibson Tribute sounds very good but for the price the HB is fantastic. Thanks Mark, that was a useful comparison.

[@JBM_71]

You're right, the pickups on the HB sound nice and articulate and produce a nice clean tone. And the more I listen to your posts, I think I like the tones from the Blackstar a lot too.

[@MarkZabel]

Glad you like them! I have really enjoyed playing through the Blackstar HT5R.

[@TheFairway8]

Blackstar make excellent amps like a quality Marshall with a bit more versatility and much more competitive pricing

[@peekaboo4390]

I am a bass player and got very curious about the Harley Benton basses. I ordered a Enhanced MP-4EB in Lake Blue. I have an extensive collection of basses and the HB bass is loaded with great features only found on top knotch basses the only problem is the pickups and preamp that hold this bass back, but for the money it is a thing of beauty with amazing appointments.

[@anthonyoneill4291]

I picked up an HB five-string fretless for £100 - fantastic instrument!

[@MarkZabel]

*Leave your comments and questions below!* Gibson Les Paul Tribute: imp.i114863.net/DVyo05 Harley Benton SC-550 Silverburst: redir.love/thoprod/490479?partner_id=16400 Desert Flame: redir.love/thoprod/463838?partner_id=16400 Paradise Amber Flame: redir.love/thoprod/363193?partner_id=16400 Faded Tobacco Flame: redir.love/thoprod/351657?partner_id=16400 Cherry Flame: redir.love/thoprod/463840?partner_id=16400 Blackstar HT5R MKII: imp.i114863.net/74yZO The mic - Senheiser E609: imp.i114863.net/na9v7 Get TABs here: tinyurl.com/ybpzjuwm Mark Z’s Guitar School: mark-z-guitar-school.teachable.com/courses

[@diddymies]

Damn they just upraded 550 . stainless steel and new pickups and pao fretboard.

[@MarkZabel]

Stainless steel frets are good. I see the price went up a bit too.

[@aliengrey6052]

I’ve purchased one.

[@ryant3600]

@@MarkZabel didn't you say the 550 you're talking about new was 270? These 550II is 279 not much of an increase especially considering all the upgrades and built by Cort in Indonesia. Take my extra 9 bucks.

[@Lola_Santoro]

You've totally convinced me to try out a Harley Benton. There have been a few other youtube channels that have played them and checked them out. But, the comparison makes it real! This guitar is definitely not a waste of $300.

[@MarkZabel]

Awesome! Thanks for the feedback. I'm so glad to help.

[@NawImNate]

Unless you live in the US and Thomann sends you a dud then tells you it will cost you like $70-$150 to ship it back to them, then you have to pay for new shipping another $70. Happens pretty often, I see it in forums daily.

[@TheCommonSenseProfessor]

@@NawImNate I have owned 2 and this has never happened, but Reverb has a US HB store with free shipping. It ends up being about the same price as if you ordered from Germany, but easier return.

[@Sunray693]

@@NawImNate Im sooo lucky I work in Germany about 30 miles from village where Thomann has a store and storage facilities. That place is huge. You can try out any guitar that comes to mind. Im going overthere next month to check out HB sc550 ii. its 320 € with soft case.

[@Juno58]

@@NawImNate thank god i live in Germany... 👍😄

[@tbone2451]

I’m not hearing enough difference in sound to warrant the $$$ difference, and just my opinion, the Harley is really a good looking guitar.

[@MarkZabel]

Well, sound is only one part. For me, this Gibson LP Tribute is the perfect guitar - perfect weight and perfect neck. But yes, the HB actually is a great guitar too. And I think many people would actually prefer the neck. (I like fat necks more than skinny ones.) The HB actually has fairly bright sounding pickups, which is a treat. If it were only 1.5 lbs lighter! Plus, I think many people would say the HB looks better. And you know, suppose the Les Paul was $2,500 or so ... kind of typical for a Les Paul ... again, I'd bet you wouldn't hear much of a difference.

[@Whereyouatyo]

I hear it. The Gibson is so much warmer and deeper and that real classic Gibson sound. If you put both of them in your hands and played them. You'd hear and feel the difference without question. Tough to really hear difference on KZbin. But like I said before. That Harley still seems like a great guitar for the money. I might get one. Lol

[@MarkZabel]

@@Whereyouatyo Yep, that's the right picture. The Harley is fine, but it's not the Gibson. And that's the sound. The feel isn't quite there either. Again, the HB has good fretwork, comfortable neck, etc. But subtle things make a difference. It may not be enough for most people to care, and that's really the question.

[@hadeseye2297]

@@Whereyouatyo OK. Buy HB and put Gibson pups in it. Case closed.

[@jmo1366]

@@hadeseye2297 its not that simple.. lol

[@autocrow]

Gibson sounds a little warmer to me. I always wonder however if the cheaper guitar could sound similar if the settings were tweaked. So many ways to adjust electric guitar sound with amp, pedals, controls on guitar. HB is an attractive guitar! First thing I look at on LP's is the headstock and the HB headstock is attractive. Glad to hear the playability is good. The most important thing!

[@MarkZabel]

Sure the settings can be tweaked. IMHO the Gibson has an "open" sound the HB and inexpensive humbuckers don't have. I've not been able to tweak that with EQ. If you play with lots of distortion it doesn't matter. Use any old cheap pickup or an expensive one if you want to hear individual notes and you shred. But yes, playability and comfort - so you'll bond with the guitar - are the most important things. Pickups can easily be changed and you can have world class sound in a solid body electric for $300 more - and your favored sound too. If you don't like the guitar in the first place it's kind of pointless to put in awesome pickups.

[@martinlewis2036]

A good Boss effects console can make it sound any way you like.

[@notacommie5415]

BOSS GE7. Problem solver

[@senseiruss]

Excellent comparison video, Mark! I've seen other vids that compare two guitars, but unlike yours, most of them DON'T play the same riffs and chords for each guitar! Your playing is great and you chose really appropriate bits of riffs/chords to make an accurate comparison, AND you make the bits of playing short and sweet, but long enough to get a good sense of each guitar. I LOVE that you didn't use pedals, which only would make it less easy to judge the attributes of each guitar. Outstanding!

[@MarkZabel]

Glad you liked it!

[@themplar]

That gibson looks amazing. Personally i am a Harley benton fan. I started with them and i like them. I have a SC 500 and an SC 550 now and more to come someday. For the money and what you get they are unbeatable. Sure one day when i can play really well i might get a solar or chapman explorer style. But to be fair HB is upping their game i might stick to the upper version of HB like the Amarok , SC550 plus, agufish LP or an explorer they make. I just hope they up the game with nicer finishes.

[@MarkZabel]

I like HB guitars as well ... at least so far. I've had two Fusion II guitars as well. Both were very good.

[@oldguy5381]

You it in a gig on stage in a full mix I don’t think it would matter one way or the other. Cheep guitars have came a long way. You do a blind sound test a and b only a few will guess correct.

[@MarkZabel]

Where it would matter most is in the comfort and playability. As far as the mix goes, it depends upon what music the band plays. If you're playing songs with a bunch of effects and distortion then anything will do. Played clean the difference is more apparent. Still, most people who don't play don't care at all. The HB is fine. I would be okay with using it on a gig if it were 8 lbs instead of 9.3.

[@Luckyrider1958]

THIS RIGHT HERE!! in a Sound balanced STUDIO?? You probably could tell.. in the REAL WORLD?? No one can tell. Reality!

[@robtog]

The Benton will do just fine

[@briw4647]

Thanks for the video. I've often wondered this question. Good thing though, the benton has great bones and can be very easily upgraded

[@MarkZabel]

Yes, good bones. I like that description.

[@diezelvh4133]

Fretboard is super flat on them. Your wrist will hurt after any amount of time playing while standing up.

[@martinlewis2036]

Personally, with the gain in the bridge pickup on both....the HB sounds more articulate the the LP.

[@MarkZabel]

Interesting.

[@StrangeDevice]

Once again, Mark is spot on. I have the HB SC 550 and the HB CST 24T and wouldn’t trade them for the world.

[@MarkZabel]

That's great!

[@garyp5522]

With a bit of embarrassment do I dare say the HB sounds better?

[@MarkZabel]

No need for embarrassment. Of course! Thanks for saying it. I heartily disagree, but that's of no importance. This video is to help you to decide. So when you next get a craving for a Les Paul, maybe it saves you a bit of the green stuff or at least prepares you for the LP not being in a different league (for you) sonically.

[@garyp5522]

@@MarkZabel I also meant to say in some modes. Either way a great sounding guitar. Thank You

[@bengibson3955]

Beautiful playing! I’ve got a HB SC-450 plus vintage which I’m quite fond of and use a lot, despite having more expensive and similar (Epiphone and PRS single-cut) guitars to compare to. The HB gets the most use without doubt. Great comparison.

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks Ben! I like Epiphones (mostly) and PRS too. But the HB single cuts are really good for the money and fun to play! Thanks for watching.

[@syntheticsleep]

The Gibson clearly has better pickups. Much more mellow, creamy sound. That being said, the HB still sounded great, and the new models have superior pickups. Is comparing a ~$1000 guitar to a ~$250 guitar "fair?" Not really. But this sure won't dissuade someone on a budget or looking for a first time buy from checking out HB.

[@daniel_chayra]

Love seeing your reviews man!!!!

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks brother!

[@kirtlamb4413]

Right of the bat the Gibson products a much smoother tone. Worth the money to me. Maybe a comparison between an Epiphone. Replacing the pickups would put you on Epi territory. Do, which of those two would be better? A sick Epi or an upgrade HB? Which has a better neck feel? Also, the HB with Gibson pickups might be worth it. Resulting in half the price.

[@MarkZabel]

Yeah, my personal feeling is that the sound is darn near 100% of the pickups. (I mean guitar-wise ... doesn't count your amp or your fingers, which are probably most of the battle.) So the neck and the feel/comfort drive everything for me. Having said that, I do like the more organic sound of the Gibson here. With lots of gain it doesn't matter as much. I think many of the cheaper brands optimize their pickups for heavily overdriven sound - something I'm not much into. But yes, put your favorite pickups into a well-built and great feeling guitar ... it's going to scream the way you want it to.

[@2001joe]

Slightly prefer the Gibson but would probably get the Harley Benton due to the cost! Actually, like them both.

[@MarkZabel]

As far as sound goes, I'm right with you. In terms of playability and feel (satin nitro vs poly), the Gibson wins. Actually though, I think many would prefer the neck of the Harley Benton. (I don't, but I tend to like fat necks.) So I think you're spot on!

[@2001joe]

@@MarkZabel I thought the Gibson sounded a little warmer but don't ask me to define warmer - I think it's subjective.

[@NawImNate]

Imagine paying thousands for a guitar that doesnt come with a bone nut, but a $200 firefly comes with one.

[@bandsbikesandboozereviews]

Personally, I think it's all about playability. If the HB plays great, you have to question the price of the Gibson to see if the playability compares, and paying X amount of £ or $ is worth that playibility. The sound can be eq'd to sound more or less any way you want it and even then if you can't get that sound through the eq then the pickups on the HB can be swapped out if that isn't working for you. Ultimately, the tone of your guitar will come from the SPEAKER(s) in your amp (not the valves), or if you're using digital, your amp sim. That's where the tone really lies.

[@MarkZabel]

Totally agree with the sentiment here. The sound demo is what people want, but *personally*, the sound part of the guitar (for a solid body guitar) comes 99.9% from the pickups and their height. If one accepts that, one should not be willing to pay more than, say $300 or so, for any sound differences - the cost (any maybe installation) of the pickups of your choice. I *do* think there's more than playability, although that's also my personal #1 choice. There's also comfort (over 9 lbs just doesn't cut it for me any more), features you're into like smooth tuners or a particular neck joint, style and color for many people, and of course resale value. Then there's the whole amp side, which is really where the action is as you say.

[@bluematrix5001]

I prefer the sound of the HB, specifically with distortion

[@MarkZabel]

Interesting. Thanks for the feedback.

[@aliengrey6052]

Exactly

[@benallmark9671]

Lol

[@flouisbailey]

My IYV LP is a keeper, I returned a $2,000 new American LP because poor weight balance, sucking twang on high e should not be any thing but perfection. Neck dry a need to polish the frets maybe. IYV Abalone inlay on headstock $180.00 free shipping crap strings.

[@MarkZabel]

Wow! That's too bad Gibson messed up that badly, but glad you found a guitar you like.

[@flouisbailey]

@@MarkZabel Some conditioning with pure lemon oil, new strings, some fret polish will be needed, the crap strings ruffed up a few frets in shipping, but gives a chance to use to use my skills as jeweler and retired chiropractor. It’s a beauty and the pickups are about 2X as hot as my Fender American. If it’s a crap box back to AmZon

[@longbow5423]

Gibson all the way. Mini hums just have a very unique sound you don't get with full size HB's or even P90's imho. The Harley Benton is nice though for the amount of bucks spent. Also a lot depends on the player. You're an excellent player and you could probably make rubber bands strung up sound good. stay safe

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks so much! I feel the same about the guitars. The HB plays well and sounds good. Just a different level IMHO.

[@athathoth01]

The Harley Benton sounded better in my opinion.

[@danielklee2933]

The Harley Benton is pretty cool. I just curious where is it is made.

[@MarkZabel]

The website says it's Vietnam. Can't always trust the website, but that's what it says.

[@themplar]

Depends on which model you talking about. The new models are made in Indonesia. The SC 550 plus for example and the HB35 plus are atleast made there. And they are a good step up from the older ones. Atleast thats what i got from several reviews who also had an older version.

[@TechnoRiff]

I would say that the HB's stainless steel frets is a real plus as far as lifetime cost of ownership goes. @Mark - how are these two guitars's fret wear holding up? Thank you for the detailed comparison.

[@MarkZabel]

Good question. I can't tell you about the HB, as I don't have it any more. The Gibson's frets are still fine. I don't see I'll need to replace them anytime soon. But I have a good number of guitars.

[@AllanGildea]

Nice video Mark, thank you! Boy, these Harley’s come out very favourably in such comparisons. I’ve had a couple and they have been spot on - and great value, clearly.

[@MarkZabel]

Great value certainly.

[@klaatubaradanikito1950]

Awesome Les Paul HARLEY BENTON‼️😍😍😍😍😍

[@MarkZabel]

LOL!

[@trukr817]

The Gibson sounds better. However, that is the pickups and for the difference in price you can change the pickups on that HB and still have a large chunk of money left in your pocket. You want heavy? I bought a new Gibson Sonex 180 Deluxe in 1984, made in 1983. It had an awesome setup and played like butter (frets are worn now) and is a shoulder/back killer. Resin is rather heavy. I think Gibson is way over priced, remember the idea of putting quality instruments in the hands of working musicians thing? Now they think they are better than that. There are others making instruments as good or better than Gibson for less. That HB is the extreme other end, but there are better choices than Gibson now. Not that I would get rid of my old Sonex or my really old ES125, not happening. LOL

[@MarkZabel]

Hi! Thanks for your comment. I'm also lucky to have bought several Gibsons going back to 1982. Sounds like you were too, although no thanks with wanting heavier guitars! I hear you on the pickups. You can buy new Gibson mini-humbuckers (the old style, not the new style here) for $320 or Seymour Duncan mini hums for $280. Obviously you could buy cheaper pickups too, but the point I'm making is that sound comes from the pickups - 99% of it. Body wood, bridge, saddles, fretboard wood ... doesn't really matter much IMHO. I actually think Gibson knows what they're doing in pricing their guitars. They simply aren't targeted at players. They're targeted at primarily wealthy people and people who believe in mojo or whatever. Same with Fender. The Gibson Tribute line is, I believe, reasonably priced as is the Fender Player series. I read that Gibson makes far more money from Epiphone sales. Thanks again for your comment!

[@bigfoot-id8bv]

I love my hb 550 but he’s not lying, mine weighs sooooo much I can only play it standing for about 20 minutes, I weight released it and it’s still a ton.

[@hadeseye2297]

These HB looks not different than Vintage V100 series. Best part was that I stopped looking at screen. And guess what? I've heard electric guitar.

[@MarkZabel]

I'd place Vintage brand a bit higher than HB in the quality department. Put a favorite pair of pickups in just about any solid body guitar and it'll sound great. This HB is pretty good though IMHO.

[@zeppo20]

The Gibson sounds a little better, but for less than 300 dollars it worth it.

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks for the input!

[@Thisnotmysandwich]

Way more clarity with the Gibson pickups. Better sonic quality.

[@MarkZabel]

I agree. I didn't like the pickups on the HB. Maybe it's okay with a bunch of distortion. Best to replace the pickups though.

[@DuncanMcArthur-l7l]

i have the sc450 plus honey burst put thru a hk nano vintage box head into a 1x12 cab with sheffield 8ohm speaker boss od3 chours and a phaser pedals happy days for me

[@cooltunesmadeeasy]

Gibson sounds warmer to me...not saying hb is crap. Though..fornthe money can't go wrong.

[@masterquan4891]

I've got the SC-25 Anniversary Model now, and it's impressively close to the sound of a Gibson-I'd struggle to tell the difference. It boasts a full P90-type sound with serious punch. In terms of value for money, it gives the LP a real run for its money on tone. However, craftsmanship-wise, it's not quite at the same level. But I'm really taken with the roasted maple neck; it's incredibly smooth, like silk. The pots are decent, but the switch is frankly terrible-I'm planning on replacing it with something better. One standout feature is the stainless steel frets-you'd usually only find those on a LP from the custom shop. Plus, it comes equipped with locking tuners, which may not be essential but are a nice touch. Overall, it's a fantastic platform for modifications. Mine weighs around 8 pounds, which suits me well as an older player-weight matters when you're playing for extended periods. However, it's worth noting that not all SC-25s will be the same weight; Harley Benton guitars are known for their variation in weight. So, if you're in need of an affordable guitar that you can take to gigs without worrying too much about it getting lost or stolen, this is a solid choice. It's reliable and durable, but perhaps not quite at a professional level. I regret selling mine 30 years ago when I was younger-I've since acquired a USA Pro Strat that I'll never part with; you can really feel the difference in its professional-grade construction. That said, if you're after a great platform for modifications, don't hesitate to pick up the SC-25.

[@kenpullin4937]

I love my Harley Benton. Sounds great.

[@MarkZabel]

Awesome

[@krisstieghorst7415]

Well Mark, when you put it up against the USA Fender I was partial to the Harley Benton, but here 2 completely different sounds. And again, you didnt butcher either guitar view, both fair reviews!! But Gibson wins this round.... and ironically after spending so much time with ya& listening ,the 1st thing I look for in a guitar is maple wood!! ( browsing on reverb, ect..) I watched this clip several times, all I needed to hear was the dirty feedbacks(?)... feeling like a trador ( I like fender..) but the Gibson definitely has the better sound here. Thanks for just plugging in without all the pedals Mark. Honestly you can get a Ibanez, Washburn, Jackson cheaper & brand new... but the Harley Benton is a wonderful guitar with all due respect. Great review Mark thank's love Kris IL 👍👏🎸💯

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks Kris! I agree that the Gibson wins here even if the HB does a credible job. I'm biased though, because the Les Paul I'm playing here is probably my 2nd favorite guitar ever. I just love it! Thanks for watching!

[@krisstieghorst7415]

@@MarkZabel thanks Mark, both guitars AWESOME, without a doubt!!I no sarcasm intended!! Thanks Mark!!

[@joecool5670]

Well, the Harley Benton Sounds great but impo the Gibson Sounds a bit warmer. Dunno if it Sounds 10 times warmer.

[@MortandHarley]

Gibson at one point was a top notch guitar company, and it's been a while . Gibson makes their guitars pretty much the same way HB make their guitars, CNC shaping, etc. Gibson might have access to better woods, but HB is offering an incredibly affordable and great playing, and sounding guitar. Gibson's idea of value is replacing a rosewood fretboard with a slice of cheap maple with black stain, and skipping the binding, then still selling it for 1200.00 dollars. Gibson needs to work on a value line like they used to have way back, (melody makers, Jr's, remember the firebrand???) They could easily set up a small plant in Mexico and deliver a budget Gibson. I own one HB so far, and I would put it's quality almost on par with the same style Gibson.

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks for your comment. I don't think you'll see a value line Gibson. Epiphone is their value line. They sell far more Epiphones and reserve Gibson for people who are willing to pay top dollar for the line. I'm quite happy with the thinner, chambered body and roasted maple fretboard without binding (I prefer the Studio to Standard Les Paul), but the Tributes of today use rosewood. But I also paid $599 for the LP used in this video, not $1,200 - so that's quite a difference. I'm not into "bling" and reject the "tonewood" arguments for solid-body guitars, so I'd never get a Gibson standard. Just doesn't make sense for me - too much for a maple cap and a white strip - and it's heavier too! No thanks. Having said all of that, the HB is a great platform. Great bones. Put decent pickups in it and you've got a very nice guitar. Heavy for my taste, even chambered, but nothing to really complain about. Rivals Epiphone IMHO. I have a Melody Maker that I love. Gibson *does* make Juniors in their Tribute line for under $1,000, but they're still around the $800 mark or so. I wouldn't expect that to change. They're made for people who want a Gibson brand guitar. Plenty of doctors, dentists, and stock brokers to whom $1,000 is nothing. They'll pay. And there's Epiphone for the rest of us. (Or HB)

[@mobbydysk]

Electric guitar choice is emotional, not logical. All electric guitars sounds similar because sound is generated by speaker, not instrument itself . Guitar players listen by eye, not by ear, including myself, you remove visual content and i have no clue which guitar sounds better. Look of the guitar is what really matters, and legendary brand name amplifiers that sensation. But in reality as i mentioned the sound depends on the quality of the speakers in cabinet.

[@you2vertigo]

HB are great instruments and not just for the price. The best guitar neck I own came with a HB Kit (jaguar) for 100 euros...

[@MrSheymie]

Maybe it is due to the mini Humbuckers, but I prefer the sound of the Harley Benton. I'm very surprised.

[@MarkZabel]

Interesting. It's a good guitar with decent pickups. Still a real bargain.

[@Dragon_rls]

I can't comment on this particular guitar, but I have a H.B. te52, that is just perfect.

[@ninafaye6229]

Maybe its the difference in playing but on clean tones Gibson has much more definition in sound...

[@MarkZabel]

I think that's 100% right about the sound of the clean tones. I don't think it's how I'm playing.

[@onion69420]

The gibson can sound way more clear and cleaner,but you can always upgrade the HB later on

[@strivingx67]

That HB sounds really nice. Great review. I am looking to get another guitar here in the next little while. Debating on how much to spend (between $300-$500). I did stop in a pawnshop the other day and played a Dean Thoroughbred (LP Style) they had. I loved it for the short time I messed with it. At $550 a bit high though. But so much smoother to play than my Jackson ($179 JS-22 Dinky 3 years old). Made me see what I am missing. This HB gives me another option to think about. Thanks Mark.

[@MarkZabel]

Hey Bruce. My experience is that if you play the guitar and like it - that's worth quite a lot. I do the best I can to give sound demos and sound advice, but there's no substitute to picking up the guitar and playing it. For example, while I really do like the HB in this video, it doesn't feel the same as the Gibson in this video. The finish, the extra pound weight, the sharp rather than curved horn, the neck profile. Don't let me discourage you away from the HB, but I'd be remiss if I didn't point that out. $200 or so isn't much if you spread it over 5 to 10 years or even a lifetime of playing. But yes, I was impressed with the HB for the money. Pretty darn solid and the fretwork is great.

[@H_Oscarsson]

Being a fourth of what the Gibson costs, Harley Benton kicks some serious ass.

[@bartbug1]

They're a great guitar for the beginner, or even a great guitarist. But yep they have their purpose. Nothing really wrong with them.

[@adrian_V99]

Another great video, Mark. Love the Gibsons with mini-humbuckers. Must be a generational thing. I tell people that when they buy a clone (not even a clone esp. re the 14" radius instead of 12") they're not saving $2,000.00, but parting with $300 which could have gone towards the genuine article. However, the Harley Benton is quite good when compare to the price of a new Epiphone Les Paul.

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks! I understand your POV.

[@daniel_chayra]

I think the LP sounds better, but mostly cuz you're probably more comfortable playing it. Also, I don't think it's $1000 better sounding the the HB FWIW

[@MarkZabel]

Hey Danny! I think so too. It has an "open" sound the HB doesn't have. I don't think it's just my comfort playing. Thanks for the comment!

[@sebastiancrowly3364]

The HB is a really nice Adam Jones copy for not much money....

[@ryanferris7841]

Both sound as good as each other to me!! However it’s not really about sound and playability it should be but it’s not!! , people want the history the Gibson name and legacy means a lot to some folk.

[@conifergreen2]

I had a beautiful Korean Samick copy and I am so sorry I sold it.

[@kaganozmeric9822]

Recently I have bought an HB SC-550 in Tobacco Burst colour. First of all this guitar is a looker. Finely crafted and has great details for its price point. I have been playing a Strat replica for ages so humbuckers' darker sound was not easy to accommodate. That is not to say that stock Tesla pickups are dull sounding; on the contrary they are surprisingly doing justice to the Les Paul heritage; and if you do not agree with this opinion you won't hesitate to upgrade them considering how reasonably priced SC-550 is. And thank you for the review it is quite interesting for me to listen the comparison with a genuine Gibson. I wish I could afford one

[@MarkZabel]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching.

[@mike5177]

I just ordered an SC-550 ii BCF today and I'm stoked. Never liked the feel of Les Paul guitars, but I'm on a guitar buying kick lately, and just want a variety. Got a Hard Luck Kings Southern Belle Telecaster a few weeks ago. A nice Tele for anyone looking cheap.

[@MarkZabel]

Nice! I'm the opposite. The LP single cut style is always my go-to. They just weigh too darn much!

[@mike5177]

@@MarkZabel Though I havent touched a LP in about 25 years....so we shall see!!

[@Arkslippy]

Hi Mike, how did the bcf work out ? I'm on the fence about buying one for myself, I was going to buy the xt-22 but when I seen the ii had chambered body, I was thinking if that instead.

[@mike5177]

@@Arkslippy It’s an absolute gem. It’s just perfect and plays amazingly.

[@MrPhins]

Those Roswell pickups are brighter than I expected. Not harsh but definitely a difference. Although, I guess if you did find it too bright you could replace the pickups with anything you wanted and still be way under the cost of the LP.

[@MarkZabel]

Yes, I was pleasantly surprised by the bright sound of the pickups. I might replace the pickups some day, but for now if they're too bright, the tone knob is right there!

[@bentalos]

I got the sc550 ii with stainless steel frets and Tesla Opus-1 Alnico-5 humbucker pickups have to say I love it. Just a side note. The SC550 II and your version are made in Indonesia, the cheaper Harley Benton's are made in Vietnam and much more hit and miss for quality. Based on others reviews and my own experience the Indonesia ones all seem to be excellent quality in comparison. Just something to consider if you are thinking of buying one.

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks Ben. Small correction, my SC550 was made in Vietnam, not Indonesia. Like pretty much all companies these days, they're going to shift production from facility to facility based upon demand and supply of parts and labor.

[@bentalos]

@@MarkZabel I spoke to Thomman for advice and mentioned reviews saying Vietnam were hit and miss and the ones from Indonesia were better and they told me that the SC550 ii and their more expensive guitars were now made in Indonesia. I love mine but I only have my Fender Acoustic cd 140 to compare it with. Just a beginner a friend who has been playing his whole life recommended HB to me. I didnt know anything about different styles and only bought it because it was the cheapest one they had that was made in Indonesia. You probably think that crazy but it made sense to me at the time.

[@chuckydall9250]

Gibson puts out absolute garbage now for the price!!

[@MarkZabel]

Hi Chucky. I only have had good experiences with Gibson, so I would disagree. Every guitar I've played in their Tribute line has been good to great. No frills though, so that might not be what you're looking for. The higher-priced Gibsons are a lot of money - more than I want to spend, but they're not aimed at me. I think they're going for people with a lot of money who want a real Gibson. They're still decent guitars perhaps, but they're not pricing them for most players. Is that over-priced? I don't know. Depends how they're selling with their target audience.

[@chuckydall9250]

@@MarkZabel The quality of their guitars has gone way down hill. My wife bought me a 61 SG standard for my birthday when it came the nut was chipped and the neck pickup didn't work at all!! There is no way a guitar should get out of the factory like that. I'm just saying I just don't understand what you're getting other than the name Gibson when you pay $2500 for a new Les Paul Standard there are guitars that cost a fraction of that and sound just as good. But that's just my opinion I would rather buy used lol that being said I really enjoy your videos rock on 🤘!!

[@MarkZabel]

@@chuckydall9250 Yeah, no offense at all taken brother. I definitely hear you on the cost/price. And I think the $2500 guitars are $800 or $1000 guitars with a couple of doo-dads, a nice finish and the Gibson name on the logo. For me, the Tribute line is as far as I would go. I buy to play, not to put on a wall. And then I would probably buy locally, because I've heard bad stories like yours about delivered guitars. That totally sucks about the SG! Absolutely shouldn't come out of the factory like that. My last Gibson experience in buying was 2012, but I've played a number in stores that were good to excellent. Maybe their mailing and dealership processes are bad. Who knows? Don't blame you one bit for how you feel. I wouldn't buy Gibson after that either.

[@markcollins3098]

{ + Nice sounding guitar for the money. + }😎😁🌞👍👍👍👍👍

[@MarkZabel]

I agree. It plays quite well too, with a nice finish.

[@TheChef470]

Do you gig out ? Let me tell you the story of my 72 Jazz bass that a drunk fell into and snapped the neck......but the $150 I made for the gig was worth it.......right ! After that I brought the cheapest basses that would do the job......nobody noticed ! If you are a weekend warrior like most of us.....leave the good stuff at home. I promise no one will notice.

[@MarkZabel]

Yes, totally get where you're coming from. Depends on the venues you play of course. I used to use my 335 on gigs and had a mishap. Totally fixable, but it was the last time I ever used it at a bar. The only issue I have with the SC-550 for gigging is that despite the weight relief it's still heavy. So I use an Epiphone Studio if I want a Les Paul type rocking sound or a different inexpensive guitar if I want a pop sound. (I have a few ... HB Fusion-T, PRS SE Standard, HB Strat-style ST62.) All of these guitars were under $400, so easy to replace.

[@ZeppelinUK]

Hi Mark, that's a gorgeous Les Paul gold top you've got there, those mini humbuckers definitely give it a more vintage tone than the standard humbuckers and I think those minis suit the instrument better anyway!... 🎸🙂

[@MarkZabel]

Hi! I totally agree. Though the HB is fine, but the Gibson has a slightly open tone that I love. And yes, the minis fit the instrument perfectly IMHO. For me it's the perfect guitar - lightweight (for a LP!), LP shape, excellent satin nitro finish, thin to thick neck with volute, 12" radius. And I like the no-frills part of it too. Versatile guitar I can play all night.

[@ianjamieson3985]

@@MarkZabel Hi Mark, great comparison video - I'll keep an eye out for your content. It must be hard to do a totally unbiased review when one of the guitars is a personal long time favourite carrying a bunch of sentimentality! Nevertheless, you did a great job and I'm more convinced about buying a Harley Benton now - especially as I'm considering a 'B stock'. Yours looks perfect!

[@Douglas_I]

What are you going "to do dirty?" Haha! I know, I'm really immature! I just can't help it! Like Michael Scott saying "that's what she said" in the sexual harassment episode of the Office.

[@MarkZabel]

LOL again! Gotta respect someone who knows he's being immature but does it anyway! I know *exactly* what you're talking about with Michael Scott. Leave the comments any time brother! (We all know they're there. We're just afraid to say it out loud!) :)

[@AndrewKozley]

Great thing when you’re broke. I consider to buy some P-90 Harley Benton in couple of months

[@MarkZabel]

Good idea!

[@neilholliday8708]

I have the same hb as being played and I love it the Matt finish is all part of the wow factor when you unbox it for that first time, it was how much nah can't be. Just lowered the action slightly.

[@johntchb]

I have a harley b with p 90s a les p shape.upgrades with nut tuners and bridge all help.a bit of a set up too.great player.pick it up more than guitars that cost six times more.

[@MarkZabel]

Yep. Great players and good sound!

[@buck7477]

For me the sound is not important when I shop for a guitar on a budget because most likely I’m going to upgrade the pickups. The most important thing for me is the way it feels. I have a US Les Paul standard and it is the nicest feeling guitar I have ever owned. I have a Harley Benton SC jr.. And I was actually impressed with the fingerboard but it still just does not compare to my US Les Paul. But I will say I like the way the body feels like you’re holding a substantial SC. I was not totally disappointed in the fingerboard it just not even come close the Gibson fingerboard. But the Gibson cost me $3500 The HB cost me $380 shipped from overseas in 3 days.

[@viperBSG]

Nothing wrong with the HB whatsoever. BUT, If you wanted to You could always change out your electronics to anything you wanted too with all the money you saved not buying an over priced Gibson or at least a hard case. But remember HB Guitars are metric and specs are a bit off because they don't need to be sued. example The Tele copies they make Fender Pickguards don't fit. Pickup hole is a bit lower then Fender and shape of cutaway a bit different. If I remember correctly it is closer to neck then Fender.

[@happyliver462]

The Benton's are dope. I almost bought one of those tributes on musicians friend and I just don't want to play a non binded Les Paul that cost that much. I bought a Benton EX84 with the off brand active pups and it's such a great guitar for 300 and shipping. I realized looking at the backs of some of these Benton Les Paul models that had clear finishes that showed the wood grain that the body was three pieces of mahogany that where glued together to be big enough to put in the shaping machines to form the guitars shape. I personally love a company trying something different because my guitar sounds awesome and I could have bought 4 for what that Gibson cost. The neck is extremely nice and beautiful. Only thing that bothers me is I wish I could have got the model of my guitar that came with EMGs. I couldnt find a antique white one either so had to get black. That white was perfect

[@MarkZabel]

Glad you like your HBs. They're pretty darn good for the money.

[@simonmiller9854]

My 450 Harley benton with pickup upgrade is my favourite guitar

[@MarkZabel]

Cool!

[@patrickmeaney6743]

So, just add some Seymore Duncan pickups for $200 and the HB with go against any Gibson-p

[@MarkZabel]

Yes, sound-wise I believe that's right Patrick - assuming you like Seymour Duncan's pickup sound. IMHOI, that applies to any solid-body guitar. The sound is pickups, pickup height, and how one plays. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise - wood, saddles, "tonewood". Other things make a huge difference in your *enjoyment* of the guitar (weight, fretboard material, smoothness of tuners, neck joint, etc.) but don't contribute to the sound assuming the guitar is set up properly and not defective. The HB's fretwork was very good. I enjoy this HB guitar and even don't mind the pickups, though I prefer more vintage sounding pickups that sound good clean.

[@thepatriot4355]

Harley Benton's aren't even slightly close to the quality of Gibson and Epiphone stop lying to yourselves

[@94SexyStang]

yep, these people are seriously delusional, it's sad.

[@NelsonMontana1234]

They may sound similar, but the Benton is cheaply made. It's like crap furniture that looks pretty good but falls apart after 6 months. And they have no customer service in the U.S. If you want a cheaper GIbson get an Epiphone. Much MUCH better!

[@MrJermeyp]

Should’ve pointed out that volute on the back of the headstock they charge 3000 dollars for a LP similar to that these days

[@MarkZabel]

Yes, there's a volute on the Tribute LP I'm using. Great guitar all-around.

[@jimcalamandria482]

Gibson has smoother sound Brmton s not bad at all.!!! Bit heavy but if u search for particular sound still gibson

[@MarkZabel]

9 lbs is pretty light for a Les Paul ... but not for me. I ended up trading the Harley Benton, but it was a good guitar for the money.

[@Spiritrock1980]

my budget go to harley benton..its sounds great for beginner like me. great job mark

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks! Yes, they're quite good for budget guitars.

[@ScottMacLeodCompany]

Just more proof why I'm going to get a HB. I could easily put new pickups later and save 1000 dollars. As is out of the box the tonal differences I heard were nominal. Gibson is just way overpriced. They always were, but now they are getting beat.

[@ravendemo4980]

If Jeff Goldblum was a guitarist. Nice review/comparison btw. ;)

[@MarkZabel]

Hey, thanks! I'd need to be stretched a bit though! LOL!

[@ravendemo4980]

@@MarkZabel 😂

[@lissan.4393]

Oh, this is a big discovery in 30 minutes of review - for 1200 bucks a cool guitar, for 270 bucks - shit. But this shit is only 270 bucks - a must have

[@MarkZabel]

Not quite understanding your comment, but I'm glad you enjoyed the video!

[@BenjaminKanarek]

@@MarkZabel A diplomat of the highest order! 😇

[@n0166]

The quality of les paul copies now are so good compared to years ago when i got into playing.

[@Fastlane05]

I own two Hatley Bentons. If I was a multi-millionaire I could see spending the difference. They play amazing and so is the fit and finish. I will buy another one.

[@MarkZabel]

I feel the same. Good enough to take to the gig and have beer spilled on it!

[@DizzyKrissi]

@@MarkZabel : i take your words for granted 😀

[@stratocaster539]

Great comparison vid Mark! I have a HB-SC450 Plus and it sounds killer through my Orange amp.

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks!!

[@kimholland9316]

Great comparison. In the hands of a good player the difference is small

[@musicmotorskate7540]

I actually preferred the sound of the Harley Benton, if it feels as nice as the Gibson than that makes it a serious bargain.

[@MarkZabel]

No, not as nice, but still quite decent.

[@musicmotorskate7540]

@@MarkZabel For a quarter of the price quite decent will do.😀

[@MarkZabel]

@@musicmotorskate7540 Yes, if you like the sound better you should go for it. It sounds like the right choice for you!

[@Edward1312]

The HB looks like a travesty considering its supposed to be a LP, it also looks like the cheap crap it is regardless of the sound it produces,

[@pakujewpiwnicy6701]

Harley Benton SC 550 are the thresholds made of stainless steel?

[@MarkZabel]

The newer SC 550 models have stainless steel frets.

[@dr.kurtjohnson1791]

Many guys will buy the Harley Benton then upgrade the pickups. Great road guitar. Cheap enough you take use it as a good spare for the road.

[@MarkZabel]

Yep. Perfect use for it. Plays great and feels great.

[@dr.kurtjohnson1791]

@@MarkZabel - check out their telecaster models with the maple roasted neck. We have 2 for the road and they travel great. Stay in tune well. Sucks when gear gets stollen on the road. But when it’s a bit cheaper doesn’t sting as bad. Sucks you have to take your guitars into the hotel with you and can’t leave it in the bus.

[@Xaltar_]

A lot of people tend to slam Gibson for it's pricing and it's true to an extent, they are overpriced for what they are but on the lower end, Tribute etc, at about $1000 they are not unreasonable considering resale value. That changes outside of the US however, in Europe for example you can get much better guitars for the same money. The HB is NOT a $270 Les Paul killer, it's an affordable alternative that gets you in the ball park tone wise. The same is true of pretty much any sub $500 LP copy. That said, you can pick up a Harley Benton SC 450 Plus (Cheapest HB with a mahogany body) for Under $200 and upgrade it to be every bit as good as a Gibson: Guitar ~ $220 (including a rather high shipping estimate) All Gibson replacement parts including: Bridge, tailpiece, tuners (grover), pickups (57 classics), pots (gibson branded), switch (Gibson branded) - well under $300 You would need some knowhow to install it all or have to pay a luthier/guitar tech to do it, lets just add another $300 (on the high side including a setup) Cost of a decent gig bag ~$100 As you can see, for the average person who doesn't know how to do the work themselves and wants 100% Gibson parts you are creeping very close to Tribute pricing with all those upgrades and you won't be getting the name, nitro finish or "prestige" that the Tribute brings not to mention low resale value. However, just upgrading pickups and using quality non Gibson branded parts where needed you could get that genuine Gibson tone for well under $500 if you are willing to do the work yourself (youtube tutorials abound). That is including Gibson 57 classic pickups. The more you can do yourself the more you save. I guess the TLDR is this: A Tribute is a complete instrument, complete with case/gig bag for about $1000 + setup fee where needed, no upgrades necessary to get the tone you buy a Les Paul for. No fuss, no time investment. A clone will need upgrades that will cost money and take time to install but will save you anywhere up to $500 while still achieving the same tone in a mix, well worth it for the budget conscious.

[@MarkZabel]

Makes sense to me.

[@rickrolled1918]

HB sounds great till you play the Gibson 😔

[@MarkZabel]

Well, it's not fair of course, BUT the HB *is* good value for the money IMHO. This particular Gibson is possibly my favorite among all the guitars I've had over 40 years. I like the Gibson Tribute line - still somewhat affordable - $1,200 as opposed to $2,500 or $3,500 which is out of my league. I'm still kind of impressed with the HB though!

[@DinsdalePiranha67]

Maybe it's the speakers on my computer, but I couldn't tell much difference between the two. Based on that, I'd be a little more inclined to get the HB. For one thing, you can take it places and play with it. It might get a few dings, but you won't care because it was a $200 instrument, not a $1200 one! Granted, if I needed to sell it I could probably get more money out of the Les Paul, but I never buy a guitar thinking I'm going to sell it later on. Heck, I still have my first acoustic, which I got as a Christmas present in 1983.

[@MarkZabel]

The HB is fine. Nothing wrong with it. Pickups aren't that expensive. If you're after sound, buy the *exact* pickups you want. That's 99% of it for the guitar ... I mean besides your fingers and amp.

[@F_K3NT_D]

I found one that’s been slightly modified. Seymour Duncan bridge pickup, not sure about the neck, it looks like it has Gibson Deluxe tuners, and a graphite nut is what I can see. It’s for my Daughter so I hope it checks out okay cause she’s excited about getting one that looks like my Adam Jones Standard Silverburst I have coming.

[@MarkZabel]

Sounds great!

[@allenwebster6329]

I own a harley benton s620 the blue one with the floyd rose,I also have a harley benton sc 400 sg style guitar and I have the 20 hh tele style harley benton ,I have a 2004 fender stratocaster and a 2006 kramer striker with a floyd rose ,my start was around $1100 my kramer around $850 my harley benton sc 400 I believe was around $160 shipping included my harley benton s620 $225 including shipping and my harley Benton 20 hh tele style I believe was $168 shipping included, the three harley benton I have play awesome the s620 with the floyd plays as well if not better than my kramer the 20 hh harley Benton plays good as well as my sc 400 harley benton the workmanship is great on all my harley Benton's granted they are budget guitars but there is really a bang for your buck so to speak when it comes to harley benton guitars they are made and play very well to me I'm going to order another harley benton guitar in the near future I'm sure I'm looking at the lower priced les paul style they have theres been good reviews in it ,harley benton customer service is outstanding in my book I've always had a positive experience with thomann on every harley Benton I've ordered I live in Springfield, Missouri and everytime I've ordered a harley benton guitar it's only taken them 4 days to ship it that's the same amount of days as musicians friend took to ship my Kramer and I'm 3hrs from kc where musicians friend is located so shipping from thomann excellent in my opinion, and thomann will stand behind anything they sell the guitars have a 3 yr warranty so that's a plus musicians friend I believe is only 90daya so go figure anyway in book harley benton guitar are outstanding and you get way more quality I think and as I said before thomanns customer service is excellent, so don't be afraid to purchase a harley benton guitar when you do it will surprise the heck out of you and you will say why have I been spending my pay check on $1000 guitars you will be hooked on harley benton trust me try one for yourself you just may be surprised as i said,great videos

[@MarkZabel]

I've had all good experiences with Harley Benton thus far as well.

[@JamesBrown-js3lm]

The Gibson sounds muddy compared to the Harley Benton. I like the HB sound a little more than the Gibson, and for the price you’d be paying for the name with the Gibson. I have a HB 355plus that was a blem. It has split coils too and it was well under 200 bucks. It plays excellent.

[@johnnywinger8131]

I,m going to pick up a Harley Benton SC 550 some colouring and specs in about 2 hours. I had never heard of the Brand until I saw the one I ,m picking up. I owned a 2017 Les Paul Studio, but was not s real fan for the $1100. I had to have yanked quickly to ease the sting. Great sounds coming out of the Benton a lot crisper then my Studio guitar, I found it was to muted s little kinda woodsy with the chunky Mahogany body and neck for me. I'm looking forward to plugging in out back in the Barn and giving her a ripp. At $275. in mint condition, if mint is actually a condition a guitar comes in; with original case and that's Canadian Looneys. Be enough left to swing by Molsons for a 2,4 to keep the neighbors hands busy from calling the cops for disturbing their peace. Thanks for the video covered my concerns of sound quality and spec's. CHEERS

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks Johnny. Enjoy your new guitar!!

[@dan_kay]

Gibson? Gibson? Something's ringing a bell... Isn't that the American guitar maker who got smoked by the house brand of a family owned German music store?

[@dannythemedic]

Buy a cavity cover, route a hole, weight relief!

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks.