Harley Benton ST 62 vs Fender USA Stratocaster | $150 vs $1,000

[@marblemolly2454]

Harley Benton is, quite simply, doing incredible things. I could not tell the difference in that sound test and would prefer the $850 in my pocket to buy another 4 Harley Bentons.

[@felixgrf2885]

I did that 😜👍🏼

[@marblemolly2454]

@@felixgrf2885 Nice work! What did you get? I am waiting for next pay day so I can get the 335 copy with the push pull pick ups.

[@felixgrf2885]

@@marblemolly2454 uhh sounds good. I bought them time after time. A Tele Copy, A Jazzmaster Copy a Les Paul Copy and a this Strat Copy. It’s stunning how good they look and Sound

[@marblemolly2454]

@@felixgrf2885 Ah yes, you have the holy trinity covered. This 62 Strat is on my list then something unusual, like a baritone acoustic.

[@j.koppany]

In my opinion the HB sounds BETTER than the Fender

[@alessandrorossini8704]

I'm sixty, I've been a working live and studio musician for many years, I did always love and play Fender Strats and I still do. Well, now my comment is that, for the money, HB is a stunning winner. I bet that on a blindfold test most of us would have very tender moments trying to guess it right... Is a real Strat better? Yes, of course, but... what about the money's difference? And I'm sure that adding just 80/90 bucks, you can put on a Seymour Duncan SSL5 in bridge position and get rid of that stinging tone, if you don't like it. Best regards. 👋🏼

[@MarkZabel]

That has become my opinion too. The Fender is nicer all-around, but the HB is actually close, and it feels great to play. And yes, drop in your favorite Strat pickups and you're good to go! Thanks for watching and for your comment!

[@countblue]

@@MarkZabel I found a white one with gold hardware (thats the deluxe version of the 62) with Fender Vintage Noisless for 140 EUR used but like in mint condition. The guy even gave me the orignal rosewell pickups too. What a steal. I did a nice setup with proper neck adjustment and put 0.10s on it. Great axe.

[@MarkZabel]

@@countblue that's fantastic!

[@danielkleber2282]

For me IS the Fender Stratocaster USA better ?

[@scottashe984]

The Fender is only better for resale. As you said, most would have difficulty picking one while blindfolded.

[@Case_]

The sound difference is basically just the difference between pickups, where the HB pickups sound hotter and with a bit more bottom end. So it then really just comes down to what you prefer and can afford, and whether the HB is playable enough to be considered. And let's not forget that in a live situation, nobody outside of the guitarist playing would be able to reliably tell the difference in sound.

[@arikiatan508]

"And let's not forget that in a live situation, nobody outside of the guitarist playing would be able to reliably tell the difference in sound" SO F***ING TRUE. It's all about playing with what you have and love.

[@Andrea-qg5yk]

@@arikiatan508 i agree, the only one who can tell the difference is you, and the only valuable difference different instruments have is their feel and build quality. And i can say, the build quality of these harley bentons is phenomenal. I would be as happy to play a gig with one of these as to play it with my 1200€ schecter hellraiser.

[@mikedr1549]

I would have KILLED to have the HB when I was just starting out.

[@MarkZabel]

Exactly so. The knock off stuff we had we pretty bad back then. And comparatively expensive too!

[@TheQakman]

Same here. My first electric was a Teisco tulip shaped.

[@ralex3697]

@@TheQakman Yep, the strings were half an inch away from the fretboard

[@stephenhookings1985]

Then playing jailhouse rock for the rest of your days if you got convicted... is that an electric guitar? Sure ... chair is too :-)

[@MarkZabel]

@@stephenhookings1985 LOL!

[@fasteddievh2072]

Best Harley Benton comparison that I’ve seen so far. To my ears, I swear the HB has more sustain. (And that’s coming from someone that owns a Fender American Standard anniversary!). Excellent job!

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks!! Much appreciated and I'm glad you enjoyed the video!

[@kct9967]

We have a HB ST-58(?), and when I saw the super small tremlo block, I thought it would kill any sustain but it's got sustain for days

[@timodelange]

@@kct9967 that's such a myth. And if it does, will it sustain for 4 seconds? Probably! That's all you need imho

[@ludvigbydal7812]

From quite a few websites reviews I found that some HBs' are noticeable heavier, maybe this increases sustain due to a denser body wood. Also the 6 screws vintage bridge has some more contact with the body if set the traditional way so there's some noticeable increase in resonance and sustain.

[@BenjaminKanarek]

I agree with you completely!

[@Nati]

I have an American Stratocaster and I admit the Harley Benton sounds great. In the 90' cheap gear used to be very bad, but nowadays you can get very good gear for very cheap.

[@MarkZabel]

Yes, and if you think the 90s were bad for inexpensive gear, the 80s were worse ... and if you think the 80s were bad, the 70s were worse. Seriously, the inexpensive guitars and amps are amazing for the $$$ today. (Not all of them of course.)

[@jonathanhandsmusic]

That’s really true! Nowadays the inexpensive guitars are generally good. I bought an Epiphone les Paul special last year. It was $400, and pretty much specked out like the Gibson, and the most surprising thing is that the quality of the build is almost as good as the “real” thing. Well, it’s good enough for me at least.

[@ces69]

@@MarkZabel Totally agree, had a Wilson in 1972 that I think was a bad copy of a Burns, it was terrible! By 1974 after working the whole summer break I was able to buy a used 1967 Gibson SG standard with the long Maestro, a beautiful guitar that I really wish I’d kept as worth a fortune now and what a difference! Today I have in my collection an Epiphone 1961 Les Paul Custom (SG shape) that is fitted with DiMarzio PAF’s, plays and sounds every bit as good! It’s just the “Snobs” that would never admit it!

[@MarkZabel]

@@ces69 @Jonathan Hands Yes, some Epis are absolutely fantastic.

[@kct9967]

I bought a '73 strat brand new in 1974, I think I paid a little more than $600.00 with a case, extra strings, and picks, now the most expensive Harley Benton costs about that.

[@colinjackson3662]

Great comparison, the way it should be done - clear, concise, truthful! Been living in Germany since 2008 and have had many HBs pass through my hands and they have really improved through the years (though they were, never awful) - early ones needed a good weekends work to set up, but the recents a Sunday morning at best (sometimes nothing needed at all). Best part, for the money I have great playing/sounding HBs that I can cart around to jams/friends houses/uncontrolled music nights without worrying about my precious stuff! And still getting a damned good sound/feel for the thing that's in my head....

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks Colin! That's a great point about having a decent (perhaps more than decent) guitar to cart to gigs/practice without worry! Thanks for your comment!

[@barrywebber100]

Great comparison. Your fairness and objectivity and great playing skills are very good. You also have a wonderful calm presenting style which is really appealing. The Harley Benton guitars are a terrific combination of quality and value for money. Thanks for posting.

[@MarkZabel]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the kind words!

[@klausscherbarth7862]

i have heard a lot of persons that have a original fender strat and they bought for testing a HB. they are so impressed from the HB. for the price difference you can buy a lot more things like a bicycle

[@TheBlackHelicopterRevue]

Love the Harley over the Fender. The Harley sounded richer and more colourful in tone.

[@joeadame6527]

Oh wow! HB neck+middle dirty is THE sound for me! That is the only clip from either guitar that made me go back for a second listen. Great video and comparison! Thank you!

[@MarkZabel]

Thank you! And ... very interesting opinion. I'm still on a kick playing the HB these days!

[@kenthompson8448]

Fantastic comparison video!! I've been playing Strats for 45 years, and honestly prefer the Harley Benton sound in every clip! Amazing value for money. Not owned or played one yet, but who knows...

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks! I like the Strat tone better, but actually prefer playing the HB. And pickups aren't that expensive, so I may do that. Having said that, the HB does sound good IMHO.

[@BenjaminKanarek]

I tend to agree, it seems to cut through with greater definition and sustain.

[@HerbonGuitar]

This is such an awesome demo! Thanks for making it! I love my Fenders, but that HB is very impressive. Great playing, and tone. Thanks!!

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks so much!

[@TheElrondo]

Great review, thank you. I live about 40 minutes from Thomann and it's a huge store for all and every musicians needs. I can remember the times, when the founder Hans Thomann was walking through his store and greeting every customer by hand. Since they built the monstrous warehouse and shipping center it's even more impressive and worth a visit. It's a kind of sad the Harley Benton guitar line does only "copies" of guitars these days. Some years ago they did very own HB models and even higher class guitars than today. What i love about Thomann is their "No Question" politics, if you don't like an instrument or gear, just send it back without discussing why. And let's all be thankful we live in a time of affordable and playable instruments. My first guitars in the 70s didn't play 1/2 as good and i thought it has to be that painful. And no, i couldn't afford a Fender they were around 1200 Deutsch Marks wich equaled to 2600$ in the 70s. I think that's 2-3 times the wage my father's monthly income.

[@MarkZabel]

Hey Elrondo! I would love to visit Thomann some day. Glad to hear of their storied history. I actually have 2 of their "Fusion" models. They are excellent for about $400 US. Honestly, with upgraded pickups they would be as good as anything. Really well built and beautiful. I think I paid $750 or so for my 335 back in 1981. (I can't remember, because I financed it from my Dad and paid him $50/month for quite a while - also a good lesson!) Today's guitars are fantastic for the money. I also think some of the higher-end ones are worth the money, but I'm not willing to spend it, because my interests vary so much.

[@TheElrondo]

@@MarkZabel Well Mark, my house is your house. If you ever come over feel free to stay at my place 🙂 It's a good starting point to lot's of visiting points in Germany.

[@MarkZabel]

@@TheElrondo That is very generous my friend! The best part about KZbin for me is making friends from all over. I'm so glad you're part of the group here!

[@bruceweigman2798]

@@TheElrondo - My father was born in Mosel, Germany and I would love to visit his home of origin. Can I come too...lol.

[@tonydynamite33]

I´m living in Nürnberg about 40 minutes away also. I sang at one of Thomann´s xmas parties a few years ago together with an American guy named Greg McCoy who ran the studio room for many years. Han´s is a nice guy. He gave Greg a lifetime contract. Love the store. Amazing how it has grown over the years.

[@robtog]

Really great comparison vid, well done

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks! 👍 Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the feedback!

[@mikepj1025]

One of the best comparisons I’ve seen. Thank you sir. To me, the options we have today at the beginner level and the quality that’s out there is outstanding. When I was a kid, guitars like these Harley Benton was non existent. We are very lucky that no matter what your budget is, you can find a very good guitar quite easily.

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks! Totally agree on options today.much better! Especially in terms of playability.

[@mikepj1025]

@@MarkZabel totally agree. I bought a Squier Classic Vibe 60s Jazzmaster a few years ago and I couldn’t believe how high end it felt and played. Just gave it to my nephew a few weeks ago but I may start looking for another one.

[@JohnSparksScotland]

I thought the Benton sounded better in every clip. Very close, but more sparkle and more grit in the lead

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks for your comment!

[@justmehere6094]

I thought the Benton sounded badly thin and brittle. Chords were muddled.Dirty the HB sounded horrible, adding a bad harshness at every position.

[@MintStiles]

The Benton lacked the overtone in the midrange that gives a more modern pickup its "thickness". The HB is scooped even for a scooped design. Nice chimes and quack, but it does break down at higher gain. But if this is just a pickup issue, there are plenty of options out there. Truth be told, if you were just doing some clean stuff, you wouldn't be able to realistically tell between the two on the blind test. The standard is a much better balanced guitar. But if the playability speaks to you... Well... It IS only a buck fifty.

[@timodelange]

@John Sparks I totally agree with you. The strat does sound more stratty imho but I think the HB would be a bit more versatile for different genres. But pickups are an easy swap, if the thing plays good then 150 bucks all day.. I have the HB les Paul Junior and it's in my top 3 of the guitars that I own (12). Very nice axe that is

[@TheMrClaus]

The Fender will sound better than HB anytime, UNLESS, you replace the crappy pickups on the HB. This HB is not as good as their more expensive options, like the SC-Custom plus that comes with EMG pickups, locking tuners, stainless steel jumbo frets, etc…

[@hughcameron]

I bought a Harley Benton just to see if they could really as good as people say on KZbin reviews. Then I bought another! They are really good, very playable guitars and amazing for the price.

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks for sharing! That's more or less what happened to me too.

[@ejb5034]

I'm waiting for my fourth HB. Most HBs are like a sore dick - Can't beat it.

[@EranRicos]

Bought an mini solid top HB acoustic. Excellent travel guitar and easy to break out for practice. Love the neck. I will have to try their strat copy. Great review.

[@DarrellW_UK]

I’m a big fan of Harley Benton guitars, they’re great value for money! I have 4 now and apart from setting them up to my preferences had nothing much to change. The Roswell pickups are pretty good, the only thing that occasionally needs replacing is string trees and just once the tuners (there was 1/4 turn slop in them!).

[@MarkZabel]

Rock on! I've had the same experience so far. All good. Even B-stock orders.

[@buckellard]

I bought the ST-90sa and I'm changing the string trees (one is just not even close) and the output jack was cutting out constantly. But after that, with a little set up, changing the nut is all that it really needed. It's so well built. Definitely built better than a Squier. The neck joint is so precise.

[@mauricerrr]

Amazing how close those guitars are in quality and sound. Leo Fender designed his guitars to be mass produced quite efficiently, so it's no surprise that roughly 70 years later, with modern means of production, they can be produced in this quality for this price. Of course, there are still differences and I would much prefer to have a USA strat over a harley benton

[@MarkZabel]

Great observation! Yes, the sound is one thing. Quality ... not so sure they are really that close. Certainly the electronics, tuners, nut, hardware and finish are superior on the Fender. Most of that is simple and inexpensive to upgrade. But I wonder about the durability a bit. You know the neck wood didn't get the same treatment and that might tell over time. But yes, absolutely. The design lends itself to good, inexpensive production.

[@mauricerrr]

@@MarkZabel Yes definitely true. In terms of quality I meant that given that the US strat is like 10 times more expensive, the quality of the Harley Benton is relatively good. What you mentioned in terms of parts used is definitely true, but these parts still work fine and will do so for years. I've owned a HB strat for 5 years now and so far I experienced no issues in either the parts or the wood itself. But still, the USA strat is definitely better, as is should be :)

[@MarkZabel]

@@mauricerrr Yes, I think that's 100% right!

[@thelolguy007]

I just got my very first Harley Benton- 25th Anniversary Strat in Firemist (gold/copper). It’s a game changer for me. Unreal for the money. I just gigged her tonight and I’m honestly taken aback. It’s the cheapest guitar I own (by a country mile) but it doesn’t feel it, look it or sound like it. And for the price (€298) it punches WAYYYYYY above its weight. The specs are ridiculous. I want another already ha. I really hoping they release them in more finishes/colours.

[@tony_dms350]

Through the years of playing with low-budget guitars to expensive models I found that it is not the sound of the guitar that is the difference between them more so the playability!!!

[@MarkZabel]

Yes, absolutely. And honestly, to me the HB plays much better. (Largely because I don't like Fender necks) Will it stay that way? Maybe, maybe not.

[@stephenhookings1985]

@@MarkZabel I really like the SX necks. I am interested in a CAR Strat with maple fingerboard. SX make one but not available in UK. Will check out the HB. I have one of their basses and it is one of my favourites - I have a few basses too.

[@MarkZabel]

@@stephenhookings1985 SX and Rondo Music in general is a class act. The issue right now is their inventory. Hope they bounce back after COVID-19.

[@ces69]

I would have agreed with you back in the day but today with computer controlled CNC machines the difference between budget and premium guitars is far smaller and can mostly be corrected by a decent “set-up”! I genuinely have Epiphone’s, Harley Benton’s and Artist Guitars that play every bit as well as their genuine counterparts! I will admit most of them have been upgraded to some extent but even if those costs are taken into account they are still many times cheaper than the originals!

[@stephenhookings1985]

@@ces69 a decent custom shop / hand carved might know more about grain and optimal way to use it. Likely (i hope) reject certain specimens where as factory with CNC without some AI will feed all pieces in. I think this makes much more difference on hollow body. For solid body - how rigid the bridge anchor and bolts on neck is likely the dominate factor. I mean if we take brisket - there is definitely a way to carve the cooked product - if you don't want it to be tough. So all processes need some care when dealing with anisotropic materials. Having said that - I have no problem taking the risk. I watch Tim Sway build guitars out of reclaimed wood - sure he selects the pieces but they all seem to sound just great.

[@mrlionel1965]

I have a Fender vintage series 62 reissue from 1984 and the ST62. I paid almost $1100 at the time for the Fender. I will say, the pups on my Fender are more clean, BUT...my ST62 is built almost as nice. If I had to do it now, I would go HB all the way. I would never ever spend that kind of money on a guitar ever again.

[@MarkZabel]

Same. I gave the ST62 in this video to a friend. He LOVES it, as did I. I preferred how it played as well.

[@bsbrooks455]

I used to be a guitar snob but the imports have gotten sooooo much better in the past 10 years or so my attitude has radically changed. Part of my guitar family includes 3 USA Strats (64, 84, 98) and 2 USA Teles (96, 03). After hearing all the hype about the Harley Bentons my severe GAS disorder forced me to purchase a Harley Benton TE-90QM. I was blown away by what $205.00 (plus $68.00 2 day shipping from Germany) could buy. It looks and sounds great. However, the neck did require a fret level, crown, and polish before it played properly to my standards. Fortunately, this was something I was quite capable of doing myself so it was not a deal breaker for me, and I actually anticipated that this would be necessary. Now I have no issues what so ever with this guitar and I really enjoy playing it. The P-90's sound pretty nice. Another example of good quality imports is the PRS SE guitars. I have an SE and a core and sometimes I find I enjoy playing the SE more than the Core. Core is a P-22 and SE is a Custom 22 Hollowbody. 90%-95% of the quality for 33% of the price. Can't beat that! Also, let's not forget Mexican Fenders.

[@MarkZabel]

I hear you. I have a couple PRS SEs and think they're great.

[@liveconcerts7550]

Well said. I can't agree more.

[@you2vertigo]

On clean tones, I take the HB. With that price difference....I take the HB. Amazing how they can produce that quality and tone for that money. Sad these good affordable guitars didn't exist in the 80s and 90s 😢 The Fender US Strat most affordable models cost a bit more than 2000 dollars (Sweden, 2024). Thanks for the video 😊

[@MarkZabel]

Makes sense. Thanks!

[@pdp977]

Very fair and balanced review on decent but affordable equipment, and lots of clean samples. Nicely done, subscribed! BTW I listened without watching the video and I couldn't tell which was which. I'd have been over the moon with either if I'd had them when I started out, as others have noted.

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks for the sub! Yes, I shudder to think of what I played when I was 16. No wonder my fingers bled! Just the playability of cheap guitars these days has seen vast improvement!

[@GeorgeKam]

Sir your video was excellent! One question i have,please respond when you have the time .Is the harley benton's body same size and dimensions with the fender usa one?

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks. They're not 100% exactly the same, but they are very, very close.

[@GeorgeKam]

@@MarkZabel Thank you for the response sir!i mean is it smaller? the benton one

[@MarkZabel]

@@GeorgeKam Not noticeable. It would help to know why you need to know. For example, the HB would fit into a Fender case.

[@GeorgeKam]

@@MarkZabel Sir i bought a Harley benton Ms -60 Vw and i returned it soon i unpacked her.The body of that guitar was for small people..literally the half size of a standard st guitar.I have a fear about that for the st 62.It was really tricky for the MS-60 watching videos on youtube i could not tell sometimes i thought it was my imagination.None of the people in youtube mentioned that the ms -60 body is small.For this i ask you sir and sorry if i waste your time.thanks.

[@MarkZabel]

@@GeorgeKam The St62CC is not a mini guitar. Normal size.

[@LandsOfDespair]

Thank you for comparison! To be honest, difference in sound is so small that it will not exist in mix at all. Slightly better harware ($100-200) and you have the same stuff as "premium" strat. HBs really make other guitar brands look waaaaay overpriced (which they are really).

[@MarkZabel]

You're welcome. You'll have the same "stuff", but it will not be the same guitar. Very different neck carve (not necessarily worse, but very different), different level of tolerances/quality on the build and finish. Whether one wants to pay for that quality is another story. The HB is a $150 guitar that's pretty good!

[@facepalmdaily4404]

@@MarkZabel If the neck carve is bothersome, it's bolt on. it'll swap out in a matter of minutes and necks are completely affordable. That's what I love about cheap guitars. Plenty of wiggle room for upgrades. Of course, for me, finish has never been a concern. I'll play an absolutely fugly guitar without thinking twice, so long as it sounds pleasant. I play to entertain the ears, not the eyes. But that's just my theory on it.... to each their own, of course. I'm not saying your wrong by any means. Not at all. Just sharing my perspective on cheapies. Respect.

[@daziwg456]

@@facepalmdaily4404 totally agree here any tonal differences can be easily sorted out and HB don't make that guitar in just that colour so if you don't like it there are plenty of other choices , with £350 max outlay you can turn that HB into a fantastic guitar that would be worth playing on any stage and you've still got a pocket full of cash

[@musictraining5071]

The devil is in the detail in music. Of course you have massive diminishing returns. I would take the strat any day if i can afford it. Harley Benton? Not so much, but i would recommend it to any beginner, intermediate and even high level player as a practice tool. I probably will get one too to use and abuse.

[@startrekmike]

@@facepalmdaily4404 Even a relatively inexpensive replacement neck isn't exactly cheap and if you buy a guitar that has a "bothersome" neck carve, you got the wrong guitar to begin with. Getting a HB up to the level of something much more expensive is going to cost enough money to seriously call into question why someone didn't just get that more expensive guitar to begin with and be done with it.

[@bernardm3066]

Both sound great. Really wanted to justify a Fender USA but it was really hard especially with all the price increases lately. Bentons sound great. Guitars and basses too. Great for trying a new instrument or experimenting/moding.

[@clemensspark9689]

HB... a pleasent surprice. In a blind test I might choose the HB....and I have had a couple of good Fender AM strats. I am thinking of buying the HB strat DIY kit and have it heavy relicted in white and mint pickguard:).

[@xpursangjock8724]

I'm a classical payer. I have little use for electric but damn, what the heck, I'll play them. For the price, I just may buy a couple of HB's just for heck of it---a 62 and a SC550!

[@roberta.6399]

My HB just arrived. It's the ST-62 MN VW Looks great! Thanks again for the review! Gonna tune it up now..

[@MarkZabel]

Enjoy it!

[@roberthoffman4587]

I bought a top of the line fusio. Tele,cost with case n shipping around $700,then ordered a cheaper strat,and cheaper shipping,DSL,said would arrive in 10 days, cool,not so.Months went by,argued endlessly with thomann,after 3and a half months I finally got my money back.At close to almost 4 months,got a call my guitar was ready for me to pick up,miles away during lockdown,and I had to promise THOMANN I would refuse,I did,same thing happened to an amp I ordered the same time,about another month later.So if you buy from THOMANN,buy the most expensive Fed ex,and cross your fingers,and expect it to be much later than promised,and a refund is not available for 3-4 months.

[@McRocking]

Amazing that it is so well set up for a budget guitar. Is this a review guitar (did HB send it to you with the understanding that you would publish a review on it), or did you just purchase it from stock like the rest of us? Thanks.

[@MarkZabel]

It was a purchase. Harley Benton setups are hit and miss. This one was a hit!

[@McRocking]

@@MarkZabel Thanks.

[@frankzappa951]

Great playing, great tone, great little bargain Strat and most importantly , great effing hair brother. Peace and Happy Holidays.

[@MarkZabel]

LOL!! ha ha. Thanks brother! Happy Holidays to you too!

[@99David99]

Except for the bridge pickup IMHO the Benton kicks Fender butt! The Benton bridge pickup is harsh. I do how the glossy neck finish over a rosewood style plays. This was a perfect comparison video Mark👍👍👍

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks man!

[@coznosis]

That HB sounded better to me lol. I would get that over the fender. Let fender and gibson compete and bring their prices down.

[@benaussie51]

Hi, nice vid’! Any tip for machine heads of Harley Benton ? Sold with Kluson and 8,5mm holes, trying to find others machine heads without drilling but looks complicated ? Thx

[@MarkZabel]

Remind me to get back to you in a bit. I'm going to order replacements in a week or so. Need time to research and make sure it'll work.

[@JosePineda-jn8jk]

I didn’t really believe the HB hype but I rolled the dice on a Fusion-T because the features and my past experience at a custom shop. It did blow me away because it is sold for what it is. Needed some work like a setup and the neck needed some back tilt but shims and a some time made it a damn good show guitar.

[@MarkZabel]

I had a Fusion-T. Loved it. Rock-solid and didn't need anything special done to it other than adjusting the neck relief. Great fretwork on that thing. Sold it to a friend who really wanted it. Easily better than some of my $1,000 guitars. I never really felt bonded to it, but it was a great guitar. I've played a few others that were good, but not *that* good.

[@JosePineda-jn8jk]

@@MarkZabel yeah it shoots way above its price tag. I can easily compare it to my custom shop (which I really shouldn’t be able to say). The finish on mine came flawless but the action was atrocious. Nothing a setup couldn’t fix though.

[@JamesPetroff]

The quality you get today is so amazing. I remember my first guitar was a Squire. It was very cheaply made. The electronics crapped out. It cracked at the nut. I had to tune it all the time. The plastic on it was so cheap. These Harley Benton guitars are miles better

[@iamzacke]

Harley Benton are sure great, already own 4 of them and each one impresses me!

[@mamulcahy]

I thought the HB pickups sounded a little thinner and not as rich harmonically

[@MarkZabel]

I think that's right ... that's what I hear too in any event.

[@TheFrontyer]

I agree. Fender sounds better. I have a Harley Benton Tele and the pups are very thin sounding compred to a fender. Also the HB have some quality control issues. Mine has an insane fret buzz on the low E and A strings. And a few dead frets. That can be sorted out with a good setup though, and pickups can be replaced.

[@hansonmick]

@@TheFrontyer agree, change of pups and bingo

[@wisdomoverfear2685]

Damn ! I own more than a handful of guitars now from Jackson,Fender,ESP,LTD and a couple handmade ones..........now I'm ordering a Harley Benton strat just because I honestly think it sounds better than the fender ! The fact that it's a fair bit under $200 is too good a deal to pass up !

[@MarkZabel]

Yes, I was shocked actually even more by the feel of the guitar. Maybe I got lucky, but this plays and feels great too! (4 for 4 with HB so far.)

[@vintagestrings6]

Hey was wondering if you knew the string spacing at the bridge on the Harley Benton. Was wondering if it was the 2 and 7/32 wide spacing or the narrow spacing at 2 and 1/8. Thanks for your efforts on this video.

[@MarkZabel]

It's approximately 2 and 1/8 in.

[@vintagestrings6]

@@MarkZabelThanks for checking. I need the wider spacing cause I'm more of a picker.

[@dutnakke]

Well - I can't belive it - but I actually like the sound of the HB better.

[@frmcf]

I like your review style, this was really useful. Interestingly, a lot of the stuff you point out on the HB, you would also find on a MIM Strat: the tuners, 6-point trem, vintage saddles.

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks! Yes, the MIM Strat has those features too. Thanks for watching!

[@Juno58]

My Fender Player Srat MIM has 2 point tremolo and the Fender tuners as here in this video the american Strat has. I looove my Player Strat! Great guitar, comes with a perfect setup out of the box. Once i had a Squier classic vibe 60, but the Fender Player has better materials, particularly the metal parts are obviously better.

[@cyofish]

You can definitely hear the difference. Fender sounds brighter. However, I think it's just a matter of upgrading the pickups on the HB. If I was a working pro musician, I would go with the Fender. As a hobbyist on a budget, HB with a couple of upgrades would more than suffice.

[@rst4641]

Mark, have you tried other HB guitars? I don't own a HB strat, but I've got an LP-style HB SC 450 plus (with coil split), but no gibson LP to compare with. But playability and sounds are quite okay for me. I got it very cheap second hand.

[@MarkZabel]

I have 4 HB guitars; A Fusion-T, a Fusion II, a LP (SC 550) and this one. The Fusions are high-end for HB at $400. All of them are good. Not all came set up well. I got the SC 550 because it's weight-relieved. No coil splits, which is fine for me with a LP style. It plays well and sounds pretty good. I don't think it's in the same league as my Les Paul, but again, it's quite a bit less money. It's still quite heavy though, which is a problem as time goes on. I'm going to do a comparison video of that as well, so stay tuned! :)

[@Falconryder]

Informative comparison. Leaves me with a few questions though. Between the tone knob, the EQ on the amp and any EQ pedals one normally uses, couldn't the Harley be easily made to more resemble the Fender's tone? And vice versa for that matter. Alternately, spend a couple hundred on a pick-ups upgrade, and would there be any distinguishable tone difference at all worth mentioning? And in that case, you're still comparing a $350 to $400 guitar to a $1,000 Fender. I agree the color is less attractive on the Harley, but having recently visited their site, they have far more attractive finishes for this guitar. You ended up with one of the worst ones. I could hear the tonal differences well with clean sound; both were nice, the Fender sounded more full in all settings. Interesting you thought the Fender was a clear winner with distortion though; I couldn't hear that at all. Probably the sound with the video doesn't quite match what you actually heard in the room. Thanks for the comparison.

[@MarkZabel]

Hi. Thanks for your comments. 1. The finish. You misunderstand. The finish is more durable and better-applied. I prefer the Lake Placid Blue color myself. 2. Of course changing EQ, using a different amp, using pedals, etc. all will change the sound. I play with flat EQ and no pedals to show what one has to begin with. 3. Pickups. My personal opinion is that sound on a solid body guitar is 99% pickups (and pickup height). Because I don't mind putting in my own pickups, and I'm not particularly interested in re-sale value, I'd never choose the Fender myself, because ... 4. By far the most important things for me are playability, durability and comfort. The HB won in all 2 categories for me. (Lighter, more comfortable neck) But both are fine. Many people would prefer the skinnier Fender neck. Most people watch reviews for the sound comparisons. I think that's misguided (for solid body guitars), which is why I don't do reviews any more. As you say, drop in your favorite pickups and you're good to go sound-wise. Bottom line for me is that the HB is solid and plays well. Hope that answers your questions.

[@Falconryder]

@@MarkZabel Very much so, thanks. Helped me with my decision as well.

[@robertoeser]

The neck pickup with crunch on the Harley Benton sounds actually better I think. You just have to be happy with your guitar, no matter what brand it is.

[@MarkZabel]

I agree with the first observation. While the 2nd sentiment is great if you have a good guitar (brand doesn't matter, which I think is what you're getting at) ... there's no reason to be happy with a poor guitar nowadays, because there are so many great options for very little money. If you have a horrible guitar (both in this video are good IMHO), by all means find something else to love! So many choices today!

[@robertoeser]

Hey Mark, I have a 80s Schecter Stratocaster as electric guitar and for acoustic a Lakewood Dreadnought. Both high end guitars you can say. Last year I needed an acoustic guitar for a gig, because the Lakewood was broken. 😰 I'm here in Germany, so I was able to order a 200€ Harley Benton Dreadnought from Thomann just for this gig, and wanted to send it back afterwards. But I never did! 😅 I was shocked how good this instrument sounds, at a price... More than 10 times less than my Lakewood. So I totally agree with you, and now I ordered a Harley Benton Stratocaster.I want to use the Harleys as life guitars, so that my expensive guitars can stay home. But the problem is: most accidents occur at home! 😂😂😂 Many greetings, Rob 🙋

[@MarkZabel]

@@robertoeser Hi! Greetings from NY USA! That's a great story. I feel the same way. I ordered this Harley Benton as a 2nd Strat - but I play it all the time. It's great to play and I think it sounds great too. I just did another video (going live in 10 minutes from now!) where I use the HB Strat and it works great! Thanks for your comments!

[@boborjanpandacsoki5239]

are the kluson type of tuners good enough on the harley? I mean changing them to locking ones is reasonable, but I wouldn't like to spenc extra money on this category.

[@MarkZabel]

The Kluson style tuners on the HB are good (not great) quality. No issues with them and reasonably smooth.

[@itsshelby]

With how much brighter and crisper the fender sounds - I think the HB would shine a lot in a lower tuning. It definitely has a rock solid lower end tonality.

[@ricardomeira5561]

I think most of it is from the mapple fingerboard vs rosewood. At least in my experience but I can be wrong

[@321woowoo]

Completely agree, should have used a maple HB

[@UweWong]

whats the body thickness? I am want to build a partscaster with this HB st62. i would switch everything out besides, body, pickups and some hardware. cause its already cheaper than getting those parts separately. plus, i like those pickups. just dont know if the body is thick enough for a thicker, longer tremblock.

[@MarkZabel]

Body thickness is 1.5"

[@JJames666male]

I was not expecting the HB to be so chimy! I recently got back into playing and bought a Les Paul special tribute, a 1988 Charvel model 3 and a Harley Benton semi hollow. The HB feels so good that 8 times out if ten that's the one i pick up and play

[@MarkZabel]

I keep getting surprised by HB. I have had 4 (sold one to a friend) and all were quite good. Surprisingly good, especially their playability.

[@JJames666male]

@@MarkZabel well now thanks to your video i might get a second one 😂 Cheers

[@MarkZabel]

@@JJames666male cheers!

[@voiceofexperience]

"Chimy" is a perfect way to describe the (clean) tone... beautifully rich & chimy.

[@TeoBDuremdes]

I was trying to look for a s significant difference in sound in proportion to the difference in price but I think I failed miserably. Very nice review.

[@MarkZabel]

Glad I could help!

[@facepalmdaily4404]

I looooooovvvvveeee cheap guitars. Consider what a guitar is. It's a chunk of wood with some electronics stuck on it. That's it. Cheap guitars can be modified very easily. What makes them cheaper is a combination of cheap pickups and lack of refinement. Fret edges can be polished if they are sharp. Pickups can be upgraded MUCH cheaper than buying an expensive guitar with the pickups you want. Tone knobs, switches..... swap em. Action can be adjusted, higher quality strings strung up, etc... when you're done you'll have a highly refined guitar for cheaper than that Gibson hung near the ceiling out of reach at Guitar Center. LOL. Plus, with a cheap guitar you avoid what I call "premium paranoia". We've all had it with our expensive Fenders or Gibsons. A friend invites you over to jam, but you know he has young kids so you either don't bring that prized Gibson, or you are so damn paranoid it'll get bumped, scraped, knocked over that you just don't enjoy your time all that much. Buy a cheap Harley Benton or Squier and you'll slam that neck in a car door and not even think twice about it. I LOVE cheap guitars.

[@andrea4809]

What's the point of "tone wood" if the strings are only attached to the body with 2 small screws on the trem?

[@MarkZabel]

I personally don't believe the "tonewood" arguments. Hope you didn't get the impression I do from this video.

[@lordmiko1982]

I think it is not fair. In his hands all guitar sounds cool.

[@MarkZabel]

LOL! Thanks!

[@matthewjdouglas6471]

Hahaha you're spot on with that comment.

[@MarkZabel]

@@matthewjdouglas6471 Thanks!

[@kiezersosay49]

Thats an excellent point! You watch guitarmax? Dude usually specializes in cheap gear like that. He can make one of those sub-100$ glarrys sound like a million bucks...

[@aaronhuffmusic]

Wow, really great comparison, going through all the tones using a song I love is a great touch too :-D Great playing!!

[@MarkZabel]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@desideriopelomundo]

I bought one, changed the pickups for David’s Gilmor's one and voilà! HB is the best!

[@MarkZabel]

They're built well. And yes, just change the pickups and voila!!

[@soundssimple1]

Good video, result for me ? I could not hear sufficient difference in the sould to justify 6 times the price. Maybe in construction, components etc maybe the Fender will outlast the HB after many years, but for pure value for money the HB wins hands down as a functional , very playable and great sounding tool. I'm over in Europe and have experience of HB, bought 3 so far from Thomann and used as guitars to upgrade and mod. perfectly playable tools.

[@MarkZabel]

Yes, I still play my HB Strat quite a bit. Great tool and no worries about someone spilling beer at a gig!

[@Oinnelstan]

Greetings from Tasmania. I've played, for years, a Godin Solidac (HSH PU config.), but I have recently been looking for a pure single coil guitar due to my taste in guitar tones apparently changing as I've "matured"! 🤣 I've watched a number of reviews on both the Harley Benton and Jet, S and T type guitars and I would like to compliment you on the quality and content of your review. With that being said, and realising I am listening to sound samples via headphones on a streaming platform using compression on its audio, I could not appreciate a difference in tone significant enough to warrant the difference in purchase price. How would the middle position pickup of my aforementioned Godin compare to that of the Fender or HB? I think we, as guitar players, are the real winners here in that price is no longer a deciding and somewhat discriminating factor in allowing us to access a good sounding, well put together, and eminently playable instrument, that can be used for both serious recording and live playing. Win-Win! Be well.

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks. You make some great points!

[@AllanGildea]

Cheers, Mark another excellent video. I preferred the sound of the Harley, considerably so. Looks fab and a fraction of the cost? I'd roll with a few of these quality super affordable guitars rather than one mid range prestige brand guitar.

[@MarkZabel]

Glad you enjoyed it! I generally think the HB is a good sounding guitar. The key is whether you enjoy playing it. The 13.7" radius neck might be an issue for some people. Personally, I think the Fender is good too, and worth the price. But certainly you can get close for far less. The Fender will hold re-sale value better if that's important. Thanks for watching and for your comments!!

[@waynetykocki3964]

I would find the price difference very hard to justify, the sounds are to good to be picky. The only draw to spend so much more money in my honest opinion is if your a headstock snob. PS I’d rather get the HB bashed or nicked when out playing than the fender, which is more likely to be nicked

[@danielcarter3928]

Harley Benton guitars are unreal. i tried a TE-52 yesterday at guitar center listed at $199 and it was one of the better guitars i’ve ever played lol. unbelievable.

[@geraldglaubitz9551]

Hi Mark, I think your review is quite objective with regards to the HB stressing its real qualities. I am playing a Jazzmaster for 169,- Euros being very satisfied. In the beginning of April Thomann will be able to sell the 62 sunburst maple neck strat again. I would be glad if you test it too. By the way your are doing a great job as guitar instructor. What about your German roots and ancestors? You have a typical German name. Greetings from Germany, Gerald

[@MarkZabel]

Hi Gerald! Thank you so much. I'll look for that Strat from Thomann. Yes, I have German, English, Irish, Canada, and a number of other ancestors from around the world. I'm pretty typical in that. Try to celebrate as many holidays as possible, because ... more parties, right?? I will say, my uncle used to get me to recite the whole "Mein Hut der hat drei Ecken", but I can remember it now. My Swedish is much better nowadays. But always great to hear from my guitar friends everywhere - Germany for sure! Greetings from NY, USA!

[@markmark8545]

i recently bought a HB mid range strat for about 180$...best value for money guitar i have ever bought. Amazing quality control for the price. I also bought a HB short scale precision bass for my 12 year old son...about 100 bucks...amazing value and quality for the money.

[@paulyates5092]

Superb and enjoyable comparison, i enjoyed the sound check and must say that there is going to be a difference in sound and feel but for me the price difference and tone would turn me towards the HB. I have 4 ST's, a Jimi Vaughn MIM, a fender and 2 from the 80's, a Franconia and a Squire HSS, all feel, weigh and sound different and there is certainly a quality difference but i tend to play the cheaper ones most just because i like them, but there is nothing wrong with any of them so to me price and where they are made is not so much a selling point and does not make that much difference, its how much you personally like them and how much you are prepared to pay and there is a lot of quality guitars out there now.

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks!! I feel similarly ... although I'll admit I'm not a Strat player at heart. I'm a 335 guy. Thanks for watching and for the insightful comment!

[@jimr5703]

So, for $150 and a set of used Strat pickups... Hmmm. Perhaps a set of Seymour Duncan or pickups of your choice. What a great place to start! I did note the Strat seemed a bit more mellow to my ear - slightly subdued, yet still a pleasant, rich tone. HB was the brighter of the two, which has its merits. I own a pair of HBs and love them. I adjusted the pickup height and found I can nearly replicate the Strat, but lose definition. Fun stuff.

[@MarkZabel]

Yes, they play well and the fretwork is quite level. 12" radius instead of 9.5". And $150 or so. All adds up to a winner for me. Sound is much less important than playability and comfort, because as you say it can be bought for $200 or so. (I don't buy the "tonewood" argument.) Put a good set up pickups in it, new tuners (for comfort), block the trem and I'm all set. Now I'm not arguing the Fender is bad - even for the money. Lovely matching with the wood an expert finishing job, all done very well. The pickups sound quite classically good to me. And it will keep it's resale value. If one really wants a genuine Fender, or if one doesn't want to change anything, OR if $1000 isn't a big deal to you as a buyer, then by all means get it. That's what I say. But for you and me, the HB fills the bill it seems!

[@jorgesxbass7606]

I wouldn't change the pickups, I would change the Prewired and capacitor for Emerson etc. Clap!!!!Clap Nice Job... Congratulations Folks

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks

[@ldfox11]

Hey Mark, have you ever tried out Monoprice indio guitars? people say their a good upgrade platform?

[@MarkZabel]

Hi! I have never tried one. I'm getting a "Donner" branded guitar shortly, so I'll see about that. The thing I like about Harley Benton is that they are (supposedly) a captive source. That is, they only make guitars for Thomann. Sometimes the odd brands ... never know where they come from, so it could be one supplier one week and another the next. Like the lottery. I'm not saying Monoprice is that way, but it wouldn't surprise me either.

[@bruceweigman2798]

I agree with you Mark. I felt the HB was somewhat "muffled", not as bright as the Strat, in all test modes. I happen to own an HB T-70 Black Paisley Telecaster and it is similar in it's differences from a Fender Tele. The bridge pickup/s seem to be the main cause of the differences. But, for $152 bucks, you can't go wrong. It puts my Fender Squire to shame in terms of playability and sound/tone.

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks Bruce! Yes, I remember you have a Paisley Tele from HB. Great guitar for the $$!!

[@chrisayres5050]

Hi Mark I found an easy solution to the high screws on the Bridge saddles , I put an Ashtray cover over them like the original 50s Strats used to have 👌🫡🎸 I really think that Fender made an error withdrawing the Ashtray covers from the Strats and Teles of the past as for resting your palm in thar bridge area the Ashtray bridge cover helps a lot

[@MarkZabel]

Nice!

[@chrisayres5050]

@MarkZabel Cheers 🍻 mate

[@jonathanhandsmusic]

I play a ‘95 American standard, and perhaps I’m biased, but I think the Fender sounds better than the HB. However, the HB doesn’t sound bad at all. If I was in the market for a Strat style guitar, I think I would get the Harley Benton. The tall bridge screws are minor. I have seen a lot of HB reviews and they seem to be very good value for the price. I couldn’t afford a grand for an American Fender these days. Nice playing btw, I liked that “don’t let me down” piece. It really showcased the necks and pickups of these instruments.

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks Jonathan. Yes, I thought the HB was very good for the price with issues that are extremely minor and the pickups sounded quite decent. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@elreybuenvinobuenavida3837]

.... as an American Fender owner I never played or held a HB guitar, but: I like it's blue, I like the darker neck & I prefer playin' clean tones. Will I get me one? I might consider it: my wife will love it's price. Great comparison Mark, tnx.

[@MarkZabel]

Right on!

[@ludvigbydal7812]

Maybe a concern for some is about how well a cheap guitar like this, though with good quality overall in a first impression, will hold up thru the years against rust and wear of bridge and tuners, electronics and finish. I would go for the higher end HBs' with Wilkinson tremolos, stainless steel frets, or Gotoh hardware as can be found on the Harley Benton or Thomann website. It might be true the low cost could be justified due to a massive production contract with Asian guitar manufacturers in various countries, which by the way also make a huge number for other major brands, and also selling directly from the company without middlemen and retailers.

[@MarkZabel]

Hi Lou! I think the long-term quality of a guitar like the HB is a concern, as it is for high-priced instruments as well. Electronics are often very cheap but are at least inexpensive and easy to replace when they go bad. Issues with finish, the neck, and frets are more difficult. No doubt the finish is cheaper, as is the neck wood and fret material. To me, the question is, "does it matter"? The answer will differ. My experience is that though I've re-fretted many guitars, only 2 of them really needed it done because of wear. And guitars with finish damage - pretty rare for me. However, if the initial fretwork is bad OR if the neck warps easily that's an issue. I've heard stories both ways. Again, my experience with necks is that inexpensive guitars can have issues ... expensive guitars can have issues. Initial fretwork is more likely good on an expensive guitar, serious neck problems seem equally likely. (That's my experience.) Maybe I should do an anniversary video!

[@erictaal5616]

what if you switched pickups/pickguard and don't tell? How muchc of the sound ia electronics?

[@MarkZabel]

Great question. My personal opinion ... near zero. Same for wood and most other things. Electronics play a part though especially as you roll the tone knob off. Still think it's minimal. Just my 2 cents.

[@mikeb5372]

I thought the HB had a great 4th pickup position tone,Very vibrant. Aside from that no other tones stood out to me except the HB was a bit too thin/bright with the overdriven tone from the middle to the bridge pos. 1,2,3 but to me the HB pos. 4 was the best tone of all positions on both guitars

[@mattw36]

As someone who just plays at home and can’t afford numerous 1k guitars I think going with the HB and paying someone to roll the fretboard and fret ends, putting a bone nut in, and thoroughly setting it up is a great way to go. I’d prly swap out electronics and maybe pickups but even with all that I’m still saving at least $400

[@MarkZabel]

Makes sense to me. IMHO, $300 is the max difference in sound anyone should be willing to pay for on a solidbody electric.

[@artamussumatra6286]

I think most non enthusiasts would be hard pressed to tell the difference. Of course the Fender name adds mucho prestige, but for a tenth of the cost, the Harley definitely delivers.

[@MarkZabel]

Right on! I actually prefer playing the HB, but I never liked Fender necks. But if I wanted to sell either, it's pretty clear what I could sell more easily! Thanks for watching!

[@ralex3697]

@@MarkZabel Exactly, no resale but at that price you can hoard them

[@Aidenbro-s2k]

I know I’m extremely late to this but I was wondering if you ran into any fret buzz on the Harley Benton.

[@MarkZabel]

I did not. Thanks for watching.

[@Aidenbro-s2k]

Thanks for the reply, sir! And it’s a great show. I like your advice a lot.

[@denthepom]

Honestly, stick it in a mix and only a bonafide guitar expert ( authentic nerd ) is going to tell the difference! Thanks for the review.

[@MarkZabel]

Totally agree with your assessment. Thanks for watching!

[@hafstrat]

Last week picked a HB as a second guitar. While it’s certainly not like my USA Pro 2, (tone or playability) it’s ridiculously excellent for the price. Daft short frets though. Never seen such small frets.

[@mike1967sam]

Hey Mark, nice video. I have two USA Strats but I've never tried a Harley Benton. I did buy a Harley Benton Single Cut but the neck was so thin I sold it. BTW Pau Ferro is Portuguese for Iron Wood. I guess they named it that because it's a strong type of wood. Pau is pronounced just like POW as if you're punching something POW. Thats the exact pronunciation. Cheers. Mike from Portugal.

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks Mike! I have a different HB (SC-550) that's a Les Paul copy. The neck is similar in profile to a 60s Les Paul. Thanks for the pronunciation tip!

[@thelastgreyhawk2161]

Help at 8:33 I can't place this song it sounds like a few of them put together does it have a name? or is it you just playing? It sounds like a Hendrix version of "Don't let me down"

[@MarkZabel]

Yes, it's inspired by that song and its main riff.

[@thelastgreyhawk2161]

@@MarkZabel I appreciate the reply, I think it sounds great!

[@bobbya8622]

The $152 Harley Benton held its own based on its price. Definitely sounds decent.

[@MarkZabel]

I agree!

[@BOBANDVEG]

I have the hb st 20 ($80). Its definitely not $2k prs or the like.....but for $80......I was amazed.

[@uversa7]

Why didn't Harley Benton provide a guitar with a mirror paint scheme of the Fender, rather than the uninspiring blue scheme? Then we could rave about the rival appearance, as well as the rival sounds of the two. Had Harley Benton been on the scene like this back in the day, Hendrix may have lit more than a few of them up with lighter fluid.

[@MarkZabel]

Hey Mikey! I believe HB does make a guitar with 3-color sunburst. (I bought the one in the video myself.) I'd bet its finish wouldn't rival the Fender's though. The matching of the wood pieces is excellent on the Fender. My opinion here ... one should buy painted finishes with less expensive guitars, as the mismatch between body pieces will be usually be very evident in see-through finishes.

[@uversa7]

@@MarkZabel I bought a $100 Glarry Strat copy with a Strat style sunburst finish. I've played guitar professionally for 30 years, have played every classic Gibson and Fender guitar in the process. I'm very familiar with the finish and quality of the sunburst finish. I owned a Gibson Deluxe tobacco stain sunburst finish exactly like the one Jimmy Page played back in the day. I promise you that the Glarry Strat has a more beautiful, perfect, and smooth finish than any of those Gibson and Fender classics that I've examined and played. I unboxed the Glarry today and could not believe my eyes. After firmly tugging the slack out of the new strings, and several tuning adjustments (flash string break in), I punished the strings with intensive picking, slides, bends, chord progressions, and aggressive strumming for about an hour. The tuning remained next to perfect, which is the best that Jimi Hendrix could ever do. These new production companies are getting close to perfect with their process. They have the science down pat. They have definite technological advantages that the old school craft didn't. Not saying that they are superior, but they can easily produce instruments almost equal to the very best of the founding fathers. Name brand, history, hype, and reputation are the old schools' only advantages over the new comers. It's like comparing George Jones to Chris Stapleton. I've played and tested all of the legendary guitars, and enough of the new breed to know. I know how to string, tune, and completely deslack strung strings. I know how to perfectly level an almost perfectly level fret board with a long, flat sanding block, then leave enough bow in the neck to compensate for the wider vibration of the string at the 12th fret. I also bought the candy apple red Glarry Tele and worked it over. I have several amps from different eras to play these guitars over, including a Johnson Millennium Stereo 150, the very first digital tube modeling amp made. This is all very exciting, interesting and entertaining for sure. Haha, I'm playing and singing with several guys and a talented lady at restaurants in Natchitoches. We are The Comeback Kids.

[@leyodydy]

Clean the American strat is better, but $900.00 better?

[@MarkZabel]

I agree with you, it's not ... but the $900 covers more than sound. Probably the biggest thing is resale value. And if you want the brand name, you'll have to pay a price for it I guess. Sort of a personal choice I think.

[@Line_ryu]

Hey ! :) I’m planning to buy this HB, as my first guitar ! I want to buy a set with a guitar amplifier ! But I’m not sure about HB amplifier 😅 is it good quality ? And thank you for the video, it was very helpful!

[@MarkZabel]

Hi. Glad to help. I don't know anything about the HB amps. Sorry.

[@Line_ryu]

@@MarkZabel That’s okay thanks ! 😄

[@MarkZabel]

*Live Stream returns next Sunday, Feb 7, 2021* Harley Benton HB ST62-CC: www.thomannmusic.com/harley_benton_st_62cc_rw_lake_placid_blue.htm Get TABs here: tinyurl.com/ybpzjuwm​ Please help support the channel by donating here: www.paypal.com/paypalme/MZabel335

[@bobbrendel758]

Very helpful video as always, but during the sound comparison I noticed the middle tone control is all the way up on the Fender and not all the way up on the HB. This might account for the minor sonic difference?

[@MarkZabel]

Interesting! I hadn't noticed. I'll check it out.

[@joshuatsen101]

Fender defo sounded brighter to me but crazy enough, I don't think it's "better" in a sense! Actually prefer the HB in some cases! Great review :)

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks for your comment!

[@omarcardona9912]

To be honest I love Fender but if you are looking for the "sound" in a budget I would totally buy both a HB strat and tele for the price of a single Fender

[@JayOneAlumni]

I can't believe i'm saying this but the harley sounds way better

[@rickpapineau2704]

I would also recommend upgrading the Tremolo to a heavy steel base plate with steel saddles and steel block. Total cost the complete upgrade would be $70 for the Tone Rider City Limits pickups and the cost of the Tusk (or bone) nut, add a capacitor kit , might reach $120 if you do the work yourself.

[@MarkZabel]

Good advice. The tremolo looks weak on the HB. I don't use them much, so it's somewhat irrelevant to me. But for those who use them often, a bone or graphite nut and better trem would help.

[@stevestocking333]

What would be the capacitor kit name?

[@mdp303]

I agree with your opinion. Basically the Fender is more scooped, less midrange so suits the distortion. Clean, the Harley Benton sounds fuller. A bit of EQ however and they’d be more or less comparable. The Fender is nearly 10x the price.

[@MarkZabel]

It's pretty darn good for the price. I deliberately left the EQ flat, so certainly it could be made to sound better with a little tweaking.

[@mdp303]

Yes the price..I was just thinking. I could get a a strat, tele and P90 gold top fromHB and probably an amp with the change. I think it’s a great time to learn guitar, the golden age of gear.

[@MarkZabel]

@@mdp303 Buy a good amp - it makes bad guitars sound good and good guitars sound great. Prices are good on those too today. Might I suggest ... 1. For home/recording/practice: imp.i114863.net/74yZO 2. For gigging: imp.i114863.net/mDKx1

[@jd3410]

I think the difference in sound/tone is mainly the nut material. I bet if you were to take the HB and put a bone or tusk nut in it, install locking tuners, and install a fender bridge, you would have a comparable guitar for half the price. I took the plastic nut out of my MIM Strat and installed a tuck nut and it made a world of difference in tone and sustain. I need to change out the bridge as I do not like the screws that stick up. I recently purchased a PRS 24-08 so the strat hasn't seen daylight in a while. ;)

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks for your comment! Interesting. I would definitely replace the nut (usually with a TUSQ nut as you suggest, because it's easy and fairly close to bone), but I'd posit the main difference in sound is the differences in pickups and the strings. The screws in the bridge being high as easily fixed without replacing the bridge. (Shorter screws or shimming the neck with be < $5 and takes minutes.) But if you want a different bridge, sure ... go for it.

[@markusschmid6315]

@@MarkZabel hi Mark. Great Video! Did you use the vibrato bridge? I consider the vibrato/tremolo in my ST-62 unusable. It's very stiff and gives me tuning issues. I wanted to replace it, and also other parts such as the nut, the tuners and string trees. But then again, I'd almost change the whole guitar. I'm not sure if I should better invest in a guitar that comes with quality hardware. I asked Thomann if they have parts that would fit, but they replied that they don't have parts that fit because their guitars have their own specs. The other thing I wanted to ask: did you notice any hum issues? Do you think shielding would be a good idea? Are Fender Strats shielded?

[@robertalan2427]

HB clear. fender dirty. But no contest with 800+ bones savings...I ain't no Stevie Ray playing 13s.

[@rickpapineau2704]

I listened to this twice using AKG 240 studio headphones, and yes you can definitely hear both guitars are different. The Harley Benton sounded slightly tinny and the Fender sounded slightly boomy, which was more apparent with the distortion sample. I would attribute the tinny sound of the Harley Benton to the cheap pickups, and boomy sound of the Fender to the Fender pickups. Overall they both sounded good. If one were to swap out the plastic nut on the Harley Benton for a Tusk nut and stall Tone Rider City Limits pickups into the Harley Benton, then I doubt their would be any discernible audible difference.

[@toadstkr]

I think the fender sounded like the intonation might have been better and the pickups just a bit smoother sounding but at the price point the Harley Benton sounded really good and I’m sure the intonation is an easy fix.

[@MarkZabel]

Interesting. Definitely the pickups on the Fender are harmonically richer. The intonation is quite good on both guitars. Pickups are easily changed and you can get amazingly good stuff for $200-$300. IMHO on a solid-body guitar that's what 99% of the sound is - for any of them. The main difference is definitely in the quality of the build and parts (electronics, nut, tuners, other hardware).

[@doombringer1505]

Read and seen alot about Harley Benton. Got the SC custom in satin black and gold. Roswell pickups are not junk. I also have a modified Strat and a Michael Kelly Patriot Decree. Looking to get a couple more Harley Bentons soon. That SC550 II Paradise flame is calling me! Also checking out the Explorer types. The one with active EMG pickups.

[@MarkZabel]

They make surprisingly good, inexpensive guitars

[@klangstrum]

Great playing - that Beatles song is one of my favourites, I would love to play that the way you can. The interesting thing is, I think if Harley Benton made a strat model for 500 quid, it would probably be as good as the fender at half price

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks! You know, HB does actually make some guitars around $400. I have one that's clearly supposed to be of the "super strat" variety. The Fusion II. Great features and playability. Here's a link for you to check it out. So far Harley Benton are 4 out of 4 for me. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKunn5iwhr-frrs

[@4wardfr3ak23]

Very impressed with your playing! Wish I could do something like this...

[@MarkZabel]

Thanks so much. It takes time and patience. You can do it!