T
Great bass, incredible price
I've only ever played my trusty old 4 string basses, so this was a first 'toe in the water' into the land of both extended range and 'budget' basses for me. Initially I rather dismissed the lower cost end of the market after listening to the views of other musicians with more experience than me of 'entry level' priced instruments, until I stumbled upon BassTheWorld's review of the B-650 on the usual video site everyone knows, got intrigued and then checked out the reviews on here.
Although I used to gig in the past, nowadays I mainly work on recording my own tunes at home, usually overlaying multiple bass parts in a looper or DAW. A six string bass seemed a good idea to access the extended range and make separation in the mix of parts a bit easier.
Ordered Thursday and it was was delivered to my door in Scotland the following Wednesday. The outer box was pretty badly damaged in transit but Thomann had double boxed with plenty of air pillow packaging protection, so the inner box and bass were totally unscathed. I'd also communicated a few times before and during ordering via email and online chat and found Thomann to be efficient and courteous. Full marks to Thomann so far then, as far as I'm concerned.
The bass arrived without any flaws in the finish, a lovely straight neck, intonated and with a medium action. Nut slot depth just right (surprising to me for a factory instrument) and it was even very nearly in tune too. Frets are level with no sharp edges and the bass is fairly lightweight. The neck is very thin in profile, which happens to be my preference and the width very manageable due to the 16mm string spacing.
My current 4 stringers are standard 19mm, or 17.5mm at the bridge in the case of my old Rickenbackers, so I wasn't sure how I'd get on with the narrow spacing, but the 16mm or so of the B-650 actually feels very comfortable. I prefer a low action and was able to lower things a bit without fret buzz. That also required a bit of intonation adjustment with the, unfamiliar to me, monorail bridges, but once I (eventually) saw the angled grub screw partially hidden beneath the string on the black bridge pieces, that was straightforward.
A big selling point for me was the active passive pull pot, a tone knob which worked in passive mode and the bass's ability to still work even without a battery in. I was quite surprised to find that in passive mode not only does the treble roll off work but the other tone knob works as a bass roll off. Quite surprising features considering even some expensive basses don't do some of these things.
Volume knob has a smooth gradual decrease, but the tone knobs are subtle in effect over most of their travel with a big change over the last few degrees of rotation. I expect that's due to the chosen taper type of the pots, but there's plenty info online about that if you want to change the pots if you don't happen like that.
The supplied factory strings are perfectly usable, later I'll likely change them for D'Addarios of the same gauge,
The sound, as others I think have said, is 'modern' but the actives are quite transparent and noiseless. I usually lean towards using the passive mode (if there is one) on active basses, but here the active mode, to my ears, doesn't have the 'too clean' harshness I find with some actives, so it's quite usable if used. The bridge pickup is quite 'middly' in tone and you can get quite an aggressive growl from it with it's trebly edge. The neck pickup is smoother sounding and also 'fat'. The blend pot gives the expected 'scoop' at the centre detent but it occurs at quite a narrow window of rotation.
The pickups arrived at the bottom of their travel on mine, but set at the correct distance for the action the bass came with. If you want to try a super low action, depending on how you approach that, it may require a little work there. Though taking into account the cost of the bass, I don't regard that as a criticism here, that would be totally unreasonable, rather more of something to potentially be aware of if that is common (all basses at any price will have some variation).
String tone and volume balance I found to be quite even across strings.
The hardware isn't going to be the most expensive at this overall price point obviously, but it all works and the fundamental body, neck and frets are just lovely. Certainly considering the cost of the bass to begin with, there's also scope for modders to spend a bit more on it, upgrading bits if desired or simple individual fettling to preference of what's already there and end up with a very nice bass at still a modest price.
For ¤158 I'm very impressed indeed and couldn't be happier.
The BassTheWorld's video review I referred to earlier, having now experienced the bass, I agree with 100%. It's just plain fun and one of those pick it up and can't put it down instruments. I'm delighted with it and simply very glad I bought it. What more can I say.
Although I used to gig in the past, nowadays I mainly work on recording my own tunes at home, usually overlaying multiple bass parts in a looper or DAW. A six string bass seemed a good idea to access the extended range and make separation in the mix of parts a bit easier.
Ordered Thursday and it was was delivered to my door in Scotland the following Wednesday. The outer box was pretty badly damaged in transit but Thomann had double boxed with plenty of air pillow packaging protection, so the inner box and bass were totally unscathed. I'd also communicated a few times before and during ordering via email and online chat and found Thomann to be efficient and courteous. Full marks to Thomann so far then, as far as I'm concerned.
The bass arrived without any flaws in the finish, a lovely straight neck, intonated and with a medium action. Nut slot depth just right (surprising to me for a factory instrument) and it was even very nearly in tune too. Frets are level with no sharp edges and the bass is fairly lightweight. The neck is very thin in profile, which happens to be my preference and the width very manageable due to the 16mm string spacing.
My current 4 stringers are standard 19mm, or 17.5mm at the bridge in the case of my old Rickenbackers, so I wasn't sure how I'd get on with the narrow spacing, but the 16mm or so of the B-650 actually feels very comfortable. I prefer a low action and was able to lower things a bit without fret buzz. That also required a bit of intonation adjustment with the, unfamiliar to me, monorail bridges, but once I (eventually) saw the angled grub screw partially hidden beneath the string on the black bridge pieces, that was straightforward.
A big selling point for me was the active passive pull pot, a tone knob which worked in passive mode and the bass's ability to still work even without a battery in. I was quite surprised to find that in passive mode not only does the treble roll off work but the other tone knob works as a bass roll off. Quite surprising features considering even some expensive basses don't do some of these things.
Volume knob has a smooth gradual decrease, but the tone knobs are subtle in effect over most of their travel with a big change over the last few degrees of rotation. I expect that's due to the chosen taper type of the pots, but there's plenty info online about that if you want to change the pots if you don't happen like that.
The supplied factory strings are perfectly usable, later I'll likely change them for D'Addarios of the same gauge,
The sound, as others I think have said, is 'modern' but the actives are quite transparent and noiseless. I usually lean towards using the passive mode (if there is one) on active basses, but here the active mode, to my ears, doesn't have the 'too clean' harshness I find with some actives, so it's quite usable if used. The bridge pickup is quite 'middly' in tone and you can get quite an aggressive growl from it with it's trebly edge. The neck pickup is smoother sounding and also 'fat'. The blend pot gives the expected 'scoop' at the centre detent but it occurs at quite a narrow window of rotation.
The pickups arrived at the bottom of their travel on mine, but set at the correct distance for the action the bass came with. If you want to try a super low action, depending on how you approach that, it may require a little work there. Though taking into account the cost of the bass, I don't regard that as a criticism here, that would be totally unreasonable, rather more of something to potentially be aware of if that is common (all basses at any price will have some variation).
String tone and volume balance I found to be quite even across strings.
The hardware isn't going to be the most expensive at this overall price point obviously, but it all works and the fundamental body, neck and frets are just lovely. Certainly considering the cost of the bass to begin with, there's also scope for modders to spend a bit more on it, upgrading bits if desired or simple individual fettling to preference of what's already there and end up with a very nice bass at still a modest price.
For ¤158 I'm very impressed indeed and couldn't be happier.
The BassTheWorld's video review I referred to earlier, having now experienced the bass, I agree with 100%. It's just plain fun and one of those pick it up and can't put it down instruments. I'm delighted with it and simply very glad I bought it. What more can I say.
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J
Harley Benton B-650 Black
this is an instrument i am sort of familiar with .
i bought a five string version of this guitar six months ago ..and thought that it was a great instrument ..and am very happy with that .. i didn't really think that there would be any difference between then.. and i was right .. yes you have a low B .. but now i have the high c .. makes a difference when your writing songs and the ability to scale high down to low when your improvising .. has a greater range ..obviously you may say : )
but the cost is a huge appealing factor hear .. cheap budget poor quality instrument here is not the case .
this like all the harley benton range are superbly constructed ..well balanced ...reliable look good .. feel good ... and definitely sound good .. because you'd have to be a bit silly to buy one ..ie five string .. then a six string ..
i guess because i had the confidence knowing it would deliver .
the active pre amp makes it very responsive to all style of playing ..
weather finger style or plectrum .. in fact it makes it easier .
like i said it feels great to hold ..and for a six string neck i was very surprised to see and feel how easy it was still was to play .
All the hardware is robust ..
the tuning keys are very precise .
the neck is a very easy feeling to it .. this eases play .
It can also be used passive or active ..which is handy adding a wider variety of sounds .
the bolt on neck i particular like ..the rigidity enhances the sustain through the body .
the paintwork is of a high standard ..and looks up there with some of the more expensive guitars ..
I don't really have any negative comments on this instrument really .
i am happy with this guitar as i was happy with the previous ..
a very reasonable price ..
great for gigging ..recording .. a great all rounder .
i have no regrets ..and would easily and happily recommend this guitar to anyone .
another great priced instrument from H B .
three basses i have from H B and impressed with all of them at a great price as well ..
hope this gives you some insight to low end priced bass guitars .
i'm happy with mine ..
thank you harley benton : )
i bought a five string version of this guitar six months ago ..and thought that it was a great instrument ..and am very happy with that .. i didn't really think that there would be any difference between then.. and i was right .. yes you have a low B .. but now i have the high c .. makes a difference when your writing songs and the ability to scale high down to low when your improvising .. has a greater range ..obviously you may say : )
but the cost is a huge appealing factor hear .. cheap budget poor quality instrument here is not the case .
this like all the harley benton range are superbly constructed ..well balanced ...reliable look good .. feel good ... and definitely sound good .. because you'd have to be a bit silly to buy one ..ie five string .. then a six string ..
i guess because i had the confidence knowing it would deliver .
the active pre amp makes it very responsive to all style of playing ..
weather finger style or plectrum .. in fact it makes it easier .
like i said it feels great to hold ..and for a six string neck i was very surprised to see and feel how easy it was still was to play .
All the hardware is robust ..
the tuning keys are very precise .
the neck is a very easy feeling to it .. this eases play .
It can also be used passive or active ..which is handy adding a wider variety of sounds .
the bolt on neck i particular like ..the rigidity enhances the sustain through the body .
the paintwork is of a high standard ..and looks up there with some of the more expensive guitars ..
I don't really have any negative comments on this instrument really .
i am happy with this guitar as i was happy with the previous ..
a very reasonable price ..
great for gigging ..recording .. a great all rounder .
i have no regrets ..and would easily and happily recommend this guitar to anyone .
another great priced instrument from H B .
three basses i have from H B and impressed with all of them at a great price as well ..
hope this gives you some insight to low end priced bass guitars .
i'm happy with mine ..
thank you harley benton : )
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MH
Impressive Deal
this bass as good as some 280 - 350 Euro bass guitars , no joke
i couldn't believe it when i open the box that i just pay 179 euro for such fine instrument along with gig-bag and cable , lets go through everything : tuners is stable and roll nicely and not lousy or hard also stays in tune , the neck smooth stained maple back with a black walnut fret-board which i try for the first time it feels like some where between to warmth of rose wood and the smoothness Ebony , frets edged and finished nicely , body is strong solid gloss black no dents or bad finish paint , awesome shape and side curves that made according to your arms position specification for better play-ability , the wiring cavity is isolated and all wiring is highly pro job with the 500k knobs and active mode convertor to 250k for better sound integrity , pickups sounds really good rich , punchy mid, sharp treble and strong low end , bottom line is you pay that few money for such bass .. its a 5 stars deal, Bravo Harley Benton , the bass arrived with low action neck setup and tuned already this bass can handle low action setup with no frets buzz or any problem
i couldn't believe it when i open the box that i just pay 179 euro for such fine instrument along with gig-bag and cable , lets go through everything : tuners is stable and roll nicely and not lousy or hard also stays in tune , the neck smooth stained maple back with a black walnut fret-board which i try for the first time it feels like some where between to warmth of rose wood and the smoothness Ebony , frets edged and finished nicely , body is strong solid gloss black no dents or bad finish paint , awesome shape and side curves that made according to your arms position specification for better play-ability , the wiring cavity is isolated and all wiring is highly pro job with the 500k knobs and active mode convertor to 250k for better sound integrity , pickups sounds really good rich , punchy mid, sharp treble and strong low end , bottom line is you pay that few money for such bass .. its a 5 stars deal, Bravo Harley Benton , the bass arrived with low action neck setup and tuned already this bass can handle low action setup with no frets buzz or any problem
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Hb
Not upset anymore!
From my first attempt to get my very first, i was upset, It arrived in two pieces, the electronic components was the only things holding it together. Not what I was expecting at all. I said I will not do this again I wanted my money back! Second attempt, successful, I'm impressed! I love this bass, even though it bit me, the frets are pretty sharp.
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H
My go to instrument
My god, this was love at first touch. 9 years ago, I bought it out of total need for an instrument. I was going to live abroad for 4 months away from my family and I needed comfort. I had been playing bass for many years but I had to leave my instruments back home. So, I bought this just to try 6 strings and to keep me playing. Long story short, it felt right all from the beginning. I have used it on gigs and on recordings and it both handles great and sounds good. If you want to broaden the note range of your playing, this is the best tool to try it and experience. You might not have to buy a more expensive one later on.
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J
Unbelievable Value!
I've playing since the 80s and have owned many basses. Also I've worked in a few music stores over the years. I have no idea how Harley Benton can offer this level of quality of these prices. I'm not complaining though. Bought this for a "couch bass" but will be using this at gigs. Love this thing! One star lost on quality because of sharp fret edges but I took care of those quickly and easily.
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RD
Met My Expectations And More
I studied the YouTube videos with the greatest fear it being damaged in shipping but that was only one guy -and mine came to Canada in mint, perfect condition. You have to expect to set the relief, action and intonation but it played actually pretty good, right out of the box. 12th fret intonation off big-time, but easily remedied. The EQ can be a bit boomy, but pan back to the bridge humbucker with the bass off and you can get a Jaco midrange. Using pedals you can get it all and more if desired. Neck flat and straight, adjust the low B where you want it and set all string action as well, the flat fingerboard doesn’t have the Fender bump radius so you can go low. I like this bass so much, I’m having one of Canada’s top luthier do a PLEK on the frets, if it indeed even needs it. Put Dunlop strap locks on it with a Levi wide leather strap and you have dream bass.
Lastly check out the YT video on the B-650 by BassTheWorld running 6:41- that review gave me the confidence to make the purchase. Very glad, I did.
Lastly check out the YT video on the B-650 by BassTheWorld running 6:41- that review gave me the confidence to make the purchase. Very glad, I did.
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b
Perfect quality for this money
It was one of those moments that I act sudden while buying it and it worths. Perfect guitar. It is recommended to change strings as soon as possible because stock ones doesn't have good sound. I am looking forward to play it in gigs.
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A
Just buy one
Like alot of others here I've played 4 string electrics and stand up for 50 years... Decided to try a six string only because of the price...what I recieved was amazing. What a revalation...The neck is a thing of beauty..2 truss rods to keep it stable... Easy to play and so fun to be totally lost again on the fretboard. It takes some time to rewire the old brain. Low E is now a B. The high C really allows for great sounding chords and Since sound is such a personal choice I can't comment other than when the strings get tired I'll try flats.... Even if you never plan to take it out of your living room, I'd recommend it to anyone whose interested in expanding your bass world. It's really is fun and interesting. The pricing is refreshingly fair or less politely... incredibly cheap. Good quality instrument for any one wanting to dip your toes in Six string Bass world. Thanks Thomman
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1
I'm Glad I Did!
I bought this bass on impulse, as I wanted to get back into 6 string bass playing, but didn't have a lot of money to spend. Ordinarily I would have investigated in depth spoken to people that owned one, and definitely demoed one! That wasn't the case here, I'd never heard of Harley Benton before, I didn't know anyone that owned one, and going to Germany to try one out wasn't really on the cards at the time, so I closed my eyes and pressed "checkout". A few days later my bass lay waiting for me when I got home. I was very pleasantly surprised, the first thing you notice is how good it looks, it's not too heavy, and how well put together it is. When I first connected up to my practice amp even the tone straight out of the box was usable, and it it didn't take much to dial in the sound I was looking for with no annoying electrical hum from the active electronics.
I have gigged this bass quite a bit, and it has never let me down, so if you're working to a tight budget, but don't want to sacrifice quality or features I would wholeheartedly recommend the Progressive Series range of basses.
I have gigged this bass quite a bit, and it has never let me down, so if you're working to a tight budget, but don't want to sacrifice quality or features I would wholeheartedly recommend the Progressive Series range of basses.
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