I took my £30 / $40 Harley Benton to a LUTHIER... (Harley Benton Setup - Video 1)

แชร์
ฝัง
  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 22 ก.ค. 2024
  • In this video, I take the Harley Benton Strat that I bought used for £30 / $40 to Phill Orme (Doghouse Guitar Repairs). Phill is going to have a look over it and share what he thinks the guitar needs...
    Video 1 - Inspection
    Video 2 - Adjusting The Bridge
    Video 3 - Adjusting The Neck
    Video 4 - How To Restring Properly
    Video 5 - How To Intonate Your Electric Guitar
    Video 6 - Adjusting The Pickup Heights and Finish
    I'm going to use this £30 / $40 guitar on a professional, paid recording session and play it on tour to prove that you don't need expensive instruments to make music.
    At the end of the video series, GIVE THIS GUITAR AWAY!!
    To Win This Guitar
    - Like This Video & Leave A Comment
    - Subscribe To The Channel
    - Follow Me On Instagram @scottpoleymusic
    △ Website:
    www.scottpoley.com/
    △ Instagram: @scottpoleymusic
    △ Doghouse Guitar Repairs
    bit.ly/3sStN16
    Timestamps
    0:00 - Introduction
    0:48 - Key Elements
    2:46 - Fret Issues
    4:04 - Notched Straight Edge
    8:37 - Action
    10:45 - Intonation
    13:55 - Dan Erlewine
    Disclosures: All opinions are my own. All sponsorships are acknowledged.
    #scottpoley #harleybenton #cheapguitars
  • เพลง

ความคิดเห็น • 433

  • @carpediem4413
    @carpediem4413 2 ปีที่แล้ว +182

    Thought this would be a Luthier’s opinion of Harley Benton. Unfortunately, it just ended up being a “how to setup a guitar…” explanation.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว +31

      Sorry the video wasn’t what you wanted CarpeDiem, there’s so many great creators on TH-cam I’m sure there’s many other videos that might be more what you’re looking for.
      I wanted to help people make the most out of these incredible budget guitars, I’m using mine on tour at the moment.

    • @karemare6426
      @karemare6426 2 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      well, if you watched closely for the measurements on this specific guitar, and you know what to look for in a good guitar, then it's also kind of an opinion about this instrument.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      I’m not sure that I totally understand your point Kare. I bought the guitar on Facebook marketplace with no prior inspection. I gave the cash before I even played the instrument.
      I want my videos to inspire to make music, and if they can only afford budget instruments, it really doesn’t matter, they’re great 👍 thanks for the comment.

    • @karemare6426
      @karemare6426 2 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      @@ScottPoleyMusic no, I think it's a great video, and your luthier is a great professional as well. What I meant was, for someone looking for a review about this guitar, this video is very useful, because you can see what deviations this guitar has compared to a higher standard model, and also what you can de about it to fix a couple things

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Aaaaaaah yes, I see. Thanks so much! I’m pushing it to its limits, currently using it on a 60+ date tour of the UK.

  • @willseymour8018
    @willseymour8018 ปีที่แล้ว +45

    I have 2 takeaways from this video:
    1. Harley Bentons are solid instruments for their price range.
    2. That man sounds like someone I'd have a beer with.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว +5

      1. They are
      2. I do regularly, he’s excellent beer company 🤘🤣

  • @hawsrulebegin7768
    @hawsrulebegin7768 ปีที่แล้ว +22

    Could listen to him talk all day. Knows his stuff and is passionate. Quality guy.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Me too - thanks for your comment 🙏

  • @CatGPT_
    @CatGPT_ ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Phil's a fkin champ. No nonsense, no pretentiousness, straight to the point. Learned a lot from this vid. Thanks Phil and Scott!

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      That’s amazing, totally agree, he’s top end.

  • @philjones8693
    @philjones8693 2 ปีที่แล้ว +44

    Very interesting - particularly the fact that the manufacturers deliberately send the guitars out with an action on the high side to mask any choking problems!

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I was fascinated the whole time I was filming this series Phil. What Phill doesn't know about guitars isn't worth knowing! 😂👍

    • @scrimpmster
      @scrimpmster ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes, it explains why the Soloist I got a few years ago seemed to have high action. However, after lowering the action i can confirm it's awesome and plays amazingly well with no buzz.

    • @Cross8ow
      @Cross8ow ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yeah, because when your guitar happens to be a tryout model in music store the last thing you want is for customer to listen to fretbuzz, when he has no clue how guitar setup works in the first place.

    • @jonhelmer8591
      @jonhelmer8591 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I learnt that buying a guitar form Woolworths in 1972.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      Nice!! What was the guitar?

  • @djmojolosangeles8190
    @djmojolosangeles8190 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Great video, thank you both for your valuable insight! Harley Benton and others have come along way in making guitars affordable and great for the money!

  • @TJJG76
    @TJJG76 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Phil is a lovely fella and he really knows his stuff. He fixed one of my guitars recently. I've been playing for years and thought I knew a lot about how guitars were made, but I really didn't. He explained what he needed to do with my guitar and how he did it. He also gave me some great advice about how to keep it in working order and properly maintained. He is a true craftsman 👍

  • @Rickd-jh7iw
    @Rickd-jh7iw ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I had never heard of a Harley Benton, but I was in a pawn shop and ran across one. It played beautifully and looked quite nice. I was Surprised that they were only asking $125 for it. Then I went home and googled it and found out it was only a $200 guitar. It was the nicest playing guitar in the pawn shop.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yeah, they’re surprisingly good if you find a good one Rick! I love Pawn shop guitar hunting 👍

  • @chrisbradshaw1593
    @chrisbradshaw1593 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Got a lot of interesting and useful information in this video, you can tell Mr Orme certainly has a great passion and wealth of knowledge on the subject, gonna be very interesting to see the progression and how the final condition compares with how you originally got it. Can't wait mate 🤘🏻👍🏻

  • @mneugent7658
    @mneugent7658 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Great video, I can't wait to watch the rest of the series. I love HB's, great guitars for so little money. I own 7 of them. Yeah they need a little setup work and some fret cleanup work but its fun to get to know your guitars. Hell I also own a 5 grand Fender Custom Shop Strat and I had to mess around with that to get it to my liking as well.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Exactly, I wanted to prove that people can make music with a budget friendly instrument. It’s amazing how many of the same jobs need doing on guitars that are $/£2000 plus.

  • @FirewireG
    @FirewireG ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This guy explained every thing you need to look for at the store, and in words non luthier's can understand!!! Good information!! Thanks!

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      That’s great Grant, thanks for your comment.

  • @londonemski
    @londonemski 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Very enjoyable and informative. Phil is a great explainer. Thanks!

  • @calumrife
    @calumrife ปีที่แล้ว +13

    This luthier is of the highest caliber. He should have his own youtube channel. Thanks for the video!

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I completely agree Calum

    • @zzcanasta
      @zzcanasta ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I agree. I've been bringing my guitars (and other people's) to Phill for setups and repairs for the past few years. He is the best I have come across, and is a lovely, lovely guy into the bargain. His business is called Doghouse Guitar Repairs (see link in the video description) and he's based in NW England (near Burscough/Ormskirk in Lancashire). Every serious guitar player within a radius of 50 miles knows Phill and uses his services. He's just the best around (and I've tried plenty of others) and should be a national treasure.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      That’s awesome!!

  • @josephclarke6770
    @josephclarke6770 2 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    I love how enthusiastic this guy is about his craft. Really interesting stuff!

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Totally agree Joseph and thanks 🙏

    • @robinmabbott7334
      @robinmabbott7334 ปีที่แล้ว

      these days he probably cares more on the violin sin side right thru to the double bass

  • @BobLoblaw1985
    @BobLoblaw1985 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Just stumbled across this video, what a gem. Love that Phil takes the time to properly explain, I've played close to 20 years and still picking up new information. Fantastic when people with this level of knowledge take the time to go through the nuances of an instrument rather than just give you some baseline nonsensical measurements of what relief should be. Still haven't got a scooby what a 16 thousandth is haha

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yeah, the whole thousandths of an inch thing is old school pre metric measurements. 16 thousandths is 0.406mm 👍

    • @raymondo162
      @raymondo162 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      sixteeen thou is 0.016 inches. imma guessing you not a mercan ??

  • @scottbrown8142
    @scottbrown8142 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I do not play guitar or any instrument for that matter, but I find this so interesting … I enjoy listening to people talk about their expertise, so much involved …

  • @standingbadger
    @standingbadger 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Fantastic. This felt like a mini-master class in itself.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Phill is just incredible, every time I see him I learn so much!!

  • @ianedmonds9191
    @ianedmonds9191 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    I'm also hotrodding a basic Harley Benton. Setup on mine was pretty good from the factory. I removed the top string tree because it was rough as hell.
    I swapped out the pickups for a rainbow set of lace sensors. I have just put on a Vega Trem. Next thing is to swap the nut out for a Wilkinson rolling nut.
    This was a Very informative video.
    Now subscribed thanks.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thanks so much for the sub. Wow you’re really going for it with the mod’s!! I’ve currently had mine set up, the only mod is a new Neutrik jack socket 😂

    • @MainPrism
      @MainPrism 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I put some graphtech string trees on a beginner level Ibanez I got for my daughter's Birthday last year and they're fantastic. Although everything Graphtech makes is awesome. Just an aside thought. Good luck with your modding, I'm addicted to it myself 🤣

    • @inspectorcal
      @inspectorcal ปีที่แล้ว

      dont forget when and if you install a roller nut on a guitar, the break point is going to be farther away from the first fret as opposed to on the edge of an ordinary nut so you have to compensate by removing part of the wood on the first fret. and once installed you can not go back to an ordinary nut, because the fret space is narrower.

  • @testfish24
    @testfish24 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This guy Phil Orme certainly knows what he's talking about... the best honest & informative video explaining the theories of correct guitar setup I have ever seen here on YT - btw HB guitars are great value I have owned many of them.

  • @satanpuncher06
    @satanpuncher06 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    This was really cool. I liked the honest professional take on this budget guitar and what to expect

  • @danielbrett247
    @danielbrett247 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great video summing up a lot of factors - thanks!

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you for your comment Daniel 🙏

  • @detox2778
    @detox2778 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    That was awesome! Way more informative then most set up tutorials 🤣🤣 great work

  • @shortandopinionated
    @shortandopinionated ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I enjoyed watching this, I found it very informative and everything was explained clearly.

  • @EdFedermeyerMusic
    @EdFedermeyerMusic 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good vid. I learned a bunch of things I never knew to look out for!

  • @MAX96MENDES
    @MAX96MENDES 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Great video and has some cool guitar tips. Thank you

  • @BlueBarrier782
    @BlueBarrier782 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    You can see this guy really knows his stuff. The speed he works at shows the experience.

  • @petaks01
    @petaks01 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Never expected a series this long on a HB strat :)
    I'll need to watch the rest too

  • @vintagebikes4215
    @vintagebikes4215 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Very helpful concise advice, thanks

  • @jfmax2000
    @jfmax2000 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Excellent Vid on The Guitar Setups and The Whys Guys.. Dead On and Thanx for The Upload ☺😎👊💯💯

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you for watching John 👍😎

  • @DMetal-yv6gl
    @DMetal-yv6gl 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Interesting video good insight into what's involved setting up a guitar

  • @p-47m16
    @p-47m16 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    The guitar tech’s voice is just awesome. So is his work as well, he knows his stuff is what I’m saying.

  • @MrIanmmackay
    @MrIanmmackay 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Very informative and very well explained - I do my own set-ups so I know a bit, but it's so nice to hear someone give so much clarity and logic to the process... I am really looking forward to the next instalments. 👌👊

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks Ian, Phill is incredible. I learned so much filming / editing these videos!

  • @vikingbeard
    @vikingbeard 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Great guy with lots of useful tips. When Dan is gone, he can take over. Thank you.

  • @charliemale3674
    @charliemale3674 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Absolutely amazing the way he explains it.....hats off sir.....thank you

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you for the comment Charlie 🙏

  • @valley_robot
    @valley_robot ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I already knew all this and I have set my own guitars up since the 80s but this was a great video that gave all the information you will need to do this yourself , that said luthiers are an almost gone skill , we need more and this lesson will hopefully create more

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      I agree, all guitarists should know at least a little bit about their guitars. TH-cam can be a great resource but it’s a mixed blessing / curse with certain video luthiers who don’t know their stuff.

  • @RiotBike
    @RiotBike ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Love how passionate he is about his work

  • @CaptHiltz
    @CaptHiltz ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You can also buy the notched tool for checking the neck. I got one from my wife a few Christmases ago. Heavy than hell. It reminds me of something a Knight would use to split a head open.

  • @Barbarapape
    @Barbarapape 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Very interesting and full of excellent tips for anyone that has no experience of how to check a guitar setup.
    It's critical that you follow a set procedure or you will never obtain a setup without any issues.
    Can't wait for part 2.🙂

  • @jhall988
    @jhall988 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have 3 Harley Benton's... Just got the st-20 HH active... Plays like a dream... Plays better than my schecter apocalypse and just as good as my Stefan Carpenter LTD... Will keep buying... Love this brand... Couldn't ask for more .. ❤👍👏👌

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      That’s really great. Those HH strats look a lot of fun.

  • @claudevieaul1465
    @claudevieaul1465 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    HBs are simply amazing value for money.
    I have 2 guitars and an electric cello, and yes they do need a proper setup, but so does every other string instrument you buy - no matter how expensive. It amazes me that people still are expecting different, and expect the guitar absolutely spot-on perfect and in tune out of the box... That's never happened to me, and I've had quite a few instruments over the years 😎👍
    Harley Bentons are definitely worth investing some time and energy, of let your luthier take care of it 😉🙏

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      Absolutely Claude, I like the idea of the electric cello! Thank you for your comment 🙏

  • @jvborehed
    @jvborehed 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    So much great information in one video!!

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      There’s a whole series on the channel Johan, more episodes to come.

    • @jvborehed
      @jvborehed 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@ScottPoleyMusic Yup, watched them all! :) Great to hear that more is coming, can't wait!

  • @BrokenRogue
    @BrokenRogue ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The first guitar I bought by myself was a Washburn T-Bird from about 1978. I paid £130 for it and sold it for £100 because it wouldn't stay in tune. A few years later I learned about changing the nut, straightening the neck, adding locking tuners etc.
    How I would love to get that guitar back now. They sell for around £500.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Oh man, we’ve all got those ‘one that got away’ moments. They were such cool guitars

  • @xforeverknightx
    @xforeverknightx 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I have a few harley bentons and they're great for modding and learning setup techniques

  • @jerryboy3301
    @jerryboy3301 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good stuff. Thank you!

  • @everythingguitar6247
    @everythingguitar6247 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Cool. This is really helpful.

  • @slash100588
    @slash100588 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    AWESOME VIDEO THIS GUY IS FULL OF AWESOME GUITAR INFO

  • @johnwave2827
    @johnwave2827 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Well explained, nice video!

  • @dennyd4848
    @dennyd4848 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This guy is amazing! Man does he know a lot of common stuff about guitars!! 👍

  • @garyt.8745
    @garyt.8745 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    In 1986 I bought my first, new, electric guitar. Prior to this I had a second-hand Hofner (which was a dog!). I bought a Japanese-made Red Squier (by Fender) Strat. It was great, compared to my Hofner, but compared to the two Harley Benton guitars I currently own, my Epiphone, my Ibanez, and even my Squier Bullet Mustang.... that Japanese Strat was total crap. It amazes me why they command such high prices today, because any HB, Vintage, Epiphone, or current model Squier, would wipe the floor with that '86 Strat in all areas (quality, tone, playability, everything!).
    Of course I won't compare it to my James Tyler, Gibson Les Paul, or Chapman ML-1, for obvious reasons, but back in 1986 I got the chance to compare my '86 Squier with a friend's Les Paul Custom ('72 model), and a Fender American Strat, so I know it was shite from the outset.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      That’s great insight, thanks so much. I also have a Hofner - a 1958/9 Senator model.

  • @dennislane100
    @dennislane100 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Judging by the logo on the headstock,this is quite an”old” pre-logo change guitar. My HB Tele has the same logo,also bought secondhand,but adding brass saddles,and a few minor pickup adjustments later,it’s a perfectly playable instrument,for a total outlay of around fifty quid!
    By contrast,my HB 450 plus LP(a fairly recent acquisition),arrived from Germany in three days,with a pretty much perfect setup,almost in tune,and no sharp fret ends.The finish is also astoundingly good,so I think HB are constantly upping their game,quality-wise,unlike some of the so-called”high-end”manufacturers(no names mentioned)who seem to have got somewhat complacent with their quality,on the assumption that their name will sell the instrument.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I wasn’t aware of the logo shift. Interesting Dennis!

    • @dennislane100
      @dennislane100 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      On a closer look (bigger screen),you DO have the later logo,so should be an excellent instrument,after the set up.
      Haven't watched right through yet, but, particularly with strat style guitars,it may be advisable to line the internal cavities with copper,or conductive paint,to cut down on hum.
      Worked well on an upgraded Chinese cheapie that I used to have.
      Now in the hands of my granddaughter! Don't think my daughter in law was best pleased,but my son's okay with it,as he used to play electric bass in a band.

  • @Leo_ofRedKeep
    @Leo_ofRedKeep 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This guy knows what he's talking about. The explanation why guitars come out of the factory with higher action than they could is particularly pertinent. No manufacturer wants to have buzzing guitars in shops so they set them up with some extra margin.
    I leave my basses without strings for 24 hours each time I clean them. Nothing ever happened. Neck bows back and comes back into place when the strings return. It could be a different matter if a guitar were to be left without strings for months in fluctuating humidity conditions.

  • @berniarmstrong
    @berniarmstrong ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Interesting video and as someone who was born not half a mile from Prince Rupert's tower, Phil's accent made me feel homesick. 😉

  • @frankcarter6427
    @frankcarter6427 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I've got a HB J bass , £50 s/h - light, plays great, sounds great, looks the biz - neither better nor worse than my mex fender if I'm honest - my friend bought a HB mandolin that was unplayable junk and went back

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I’ve heard similar stories Frank. I guess we both found good ones 👍

  • @HektorBandimar
    @HektorBandimar 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    That guy really knows his stuff! He's very interesting, I'd love to talk guitars with him. 👍

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I do all the time, he’s incredible 👍

  • @roadtorockstar7848
    @roadtorockstar7848 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    5:56 This is soooo goooD! THANK YOU!

  • @davidconnelly
    @davidconnelly ปีที่แล้ว +1

    That guy was great. I learned loads. Thanks for that.

  • @mikewilliams1576
    @mikewilliams1576 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Ha I wondered what became of this guitar. Got a bit unlucky with the QC on this Harley Benton, though some of the other guitars I have had of theirs have been awesome. Great video.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      60 tour dates in, 36 more to go before I give it away 👍 genuinely gutted to know it’s going.

  • @PegeCovers
    @PegeCovers 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Gotta love smart people like this

  • @terencehealy5110
    @terencehealy5110 ปีที่แล้ว

    Amazing informative content I really like it 😀 big time thanks I also think if you put tens in a nine guage guitar the bridge was never cut for that

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks Terence!! Going from 9’s to 10’s shouldn’t be an issue on a strat style guitar with metal saddles.

  • @hungariantutor
    @hungariantutor 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Just got the same one for 20 quid. Only one saddle screw was missing and needed some setup. Sounds and feels great. Can't believe the value I got for almost nothing.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Wow you got an even better deal than me. Mine is currently 24 shows into a 60 date theatre tour, updates coming soon. They’re so good, hope you enjoy yours and have loads of fun with it.

    • @hungariantutor
      @hungariantutor 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ScottPoleyMusic Thanks man, I've been wanting to get a single coil guitar for those twangy clean tones. This one totally delivers the goods and even distorted there's not much hissing. The only fault I can find right now is one of the tuning pegs is not tight enough. If I were to gig with it I'd change the tuning pegs and the nut. But even in this state it feels like a £200 guitar. Ridiculous 🤣

  • @FloridaManRacer
    @FloridaManRacer ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I don't mean to discredit this man as he clearly has a lot of knowledge on the setup of a guitar, but I own 5 Harley Bentons and had a good rapport with Thomann during the time I was buying them. They take every guitar that is about to be shipped to someone and do a final setup on them before shipping internationally (What they do in store in Germany may be different) but all of my guitars came with no need for any major setup changes. minor tweaks for my preference in action, yes. but relief, intonation etc. were spot on. You bought this used. I bet the previous owner either tinkered with stuff he shouldn't have touched, or never got it readjusted over time...

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      That’s great that you’ve got good ones from the factory. Phill sees hundreds of Harley Benton’s and generally they’re ok but need a few setup tweaks for optimum playability. Every guitar should be set up from the factory and tweaked throughout the year with the changes in temperature / humidity.

    • @FloridaManRacer
      @FloridaManRacer ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ScottPoleyMusic I totally agree, and their A stock stuff seems to, for the most part, adhere to what you say they should be doing. Their B Stock though? Stay away... I had one B Stock from HB show up so far off the mark, the luthier couldn't fix it... it's now a wall hanger.

  • @davidheaton5765
    @davidheaton5765 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This guy is phenomenal!

  • @cesarsilva2403
    @cesarsilva2403 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Just found this channel, thats a nice video, you got a new subscriber

  • @Cryptonius420
    @Cryptonius420 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Some great tips there!

  • @vectortonto1
    @vectortonto1 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Not what the title says but oh so much more. Thanks for the setup explanation. Does this guy have any other videos?
    Be checking out Dan Erlewines stuff

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      There’s a series of videos on the channel, I’m trying to convince him to set up his own channel.

  • @conorscullion4137
    @conorscullion4137 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    That was really interesting. Thanks!

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Appreciate that Conor 👍

    • @conorscullion4137
      @conorscullion4137 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ScottPoleyMusic Off to binge watch the rest now. You are such a cracking player too. Amazing. Subbed 👍

  • @Theweeze100
    @Theweeze100 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great Series!

  • @donaldmusic6274
    @donaldmusic6274 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This guy has a wealth of knowledge

  • @chrisdaviesguitar
    @chrisdaviesguitar ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I remember a String company called Picasso (Status Quo, Richie Blackmore and Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath used them), you could get E strings gauged 008. 007 and 006.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      Yeah Chris, Billy Gibbons from ZZ top uses really light gauge strings too, I don’t know how he does it.

  • @idealmethod
    @idealmethod 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    good video man!

  • @aaronlaguda
    @aaronlaguda ปีที่แล้ว +1

    thanks . no one ever explains radious so cheers !

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      Pleasure Aron, so glad you found this video useful 👍

  • @CagedPaps
    @CagedPaps 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I liked the video, I think it's a good insight for people like me that like to attempt these things and actually see his thought process. HB are certainly putting pressure on other brands made in the same factories, I think HB still has a stigma against it but the way the world is right now, you can buy a HB with stainless steel frets, locking tuners, EMG pickups (you might not like them but they're branded) for less than £350. You could spend more than double that on let's say a Chapman (I use them as an example as they don't have a luthiers they just spec them the same as HB) and for arguably less guitar.
    But the name on the headstock ultimately sells the guitar... Will that change?

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Very good points CagedPaps. The value of the Harley Benton gear is undeniable.

  • @barbaradale4464
    @barbaradale4464 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great video!

  • @marklowe7431
    @marklowe7431 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The best money I ever spent on my basses was with a pro luthier to fix them from new. The only bass out of about half a dozen that was perfect from new was a Sadowsky.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      Woah, I love Sadowsky basses. Yes Mark , couldn’t agree with you more if I tried.

  • @urbanrunoff
    @urbanrunoff 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    that Luthier is amazing, cool guy no attitude wish he lived in my hood.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I’m so glad he does live in my hood 😎👍

    • @kevh9497
      @kevh9497 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yeah, a luthier with no attitude is a rare thing indeed. Why are most luthiers so aloof?

  • @fullwaverecked
    @fullwaverecked ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Awesome video Scott! Great luck and best wishes on your touring! Hope someday I can buy you a pint in SLC Utah. I'm getting too old and broke to make it across the pond these days, but I've been playing guitar like crap for fifty years, and the ar$hole ney sayers don't slow me down a wit... Just the opposite; when someone tells me I'm playing like crap, Ill play even more crappy just to spite them.... Keep on doing that groovy thang that you're doin. Thanks and cheers!

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      We’re playing Salt Lake with Rumours Of Fleetwood Mac in a few weeks. Likewise and thank you 🙏

  • @dumptodreamhome2630
    @dumptodreamhome2630 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Wish I could find a Luther like this one!!

  • @EditPaff
    @EditPaff ปีที่แล้ว +3

    great portion of practical knowledge and explanation, thanks! Though my conclusion is not to do it by myself - I will go to the luthier. It's just a bit too complex and precise for a non professional like me. I only play these things ;-)

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      Absolutely Pawel, hopefully these videos will help you chat to a luthier about what you need from your setup. Good luck 👍

    • @stephenhookings1985
      @stephenhookings1985 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Watch Dave's World of Fun Stuff and play with your cheap guitar. Worst case u break it but you won't. Then you can buy a range of budget guitars and modify them to play better than a custom shop at a fraction of the price.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      That’s one great thing about budget guitars, if you want to learn to repair guitars, buy a cheap one. If you make a mistake, it’s not an expensive Fender / Gibson.
      Dan Erlewine and Frank Ford are my two luthier heroes (Phill’s too).

    • @TheBoabby50
      @TheBoabby50 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@ScottPoleyMusic Lets not forget Twoford. An excellent luthier IMO

  • @BurninSven1
    @BurninSven1 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The channel here you really should watch is StringTech Workstations, maybe even more than the Stewmac channel actually. For frets and necks he´s the best. You don´t have to make the notched straight edge yourself they are not that expensive and the tools you need to make one will cost you more. I measure and evaluate the straightness of the neck and then I use a stewmac fret kisser to level any high spots from the individual frets = I don´t have to re crown all frets. Then you smooth the fret ends set your action/how much relief you want and your neck job is pretty much done.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      Cool, sounds like you’ve got a great method there 👍

  • @jhall988
    @jhall988 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have had zero issues with my 3 HBs but really every guitar needs some kind of setup and tweaking to a players specs... They're (every guitar) never gonna come perfect without at least some string work... Bad wiring etc is definitely cause for complaints but I doubt that happens that often

  • @bohmao
    @bohmao 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I bought a Harley Benton Les Paul copy from Thomann and the set up was almost perfect straight from the box. Amazing. Maybe I was lucky 😊

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Lucky you bohmao!!! That’s brilliant 😎

    • @markmark8545
      @markmark8545 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      i don't think you were lucky...my HB strat had amazing quality control too...they have shifted the ball park. I think they, as a company, have pride in their products...which is more than I can say for fender and gibson (standard factory instruments), who trade on their name.

    • @morbidmanmusic
      @morbidmanmusic ปีที่แล้ว

      Mark, stop watching Fricker.

    • @markmark8545
      @markmark8545 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@morbidmanmusic what is Fricker??

  • @raymondo162
    @raymondo162 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    woooaaah......... how much did i just learn?? MUCH. Thx boss

  • @switchmuso
    @switchmuso ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Minute 14: " Brand new set of strings, do the intonation..." Gotcha. If the intonation goes out, you know it's the string, deg, from skin and plec, haha.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      Yep, all that lovely dried skin 🤮🤣

  • @ergohogg
    @ergohogg ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Any guitar however cheap can be made to play well. I've never had a guitar (even £3000 ones) over the last 35 years that didn't need anything doing to make it the best for me.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      That’s really interesting Ergo. Some of my most expensive guitars have needed the most work to get them playing in their optimal state, so I can certainly agree with you there.

  • @SuperDolemite1
    @SuperDolemite1 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Wow interesting stuff

  • @TriadAgone
    @TriadAgone ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Idk about string gauge.
    Hendrix played banjo strings. I think string choice is really a bit more musical than structural but I appreciate the perspective from a gigging musicians pov. In that regard having a tool that's made to be reliable makes sense.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      String gauge is such an interesting debate. I say, try them all and find what works for you.

    • @morbidmanmusic
      @morbidmanmusic ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Banjo strings are the same as guitar strings other than the loop ends. And they are about the same gauge as a regular light electric set. Most have 009 or 010 high strings.
      You may be thinking he used a lighter gauge.

  • @AustinArto
    @AustinArto ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I've had many second-user guitars and basses, and without exception they all needed setting up. It seems people buy a guitar and just play it, straight out of the box. No wonder they all got tired of trying to play it and sold it on...

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      Absolutely, couldn’t agree more 👍

  • @ericvalverderosado2046
    @ericvalverderosado2046 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I wonder how he would approach guitars in Drop B, some other baritone crazy thing like Drop F#, or the AGCFAD, F#F#BEG#C#

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      We did actually briefly set up a standard scale electric in Baritone b-b tuning with heavy strings and it played great. I prefer the feel of my Telecaster with a baritone neck for low tunings.
      As for drop F# - you’re a braver man than me Eric 🤘🤣

  • @markmark8545
    @markmark8545 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    i bought a new HB strat for 140$ about 6 months ago...best value for money guitar i ever bought...very smooth fret ends...well set up but yup, I had to adjust the heights of the bridge to match the neck radius too...good action...excellent tone..good output from pickups... It was still in tune when i took it out of the box...and stays in tune. ..mostly...dive bombing can make it go a bit flat. The only criticism is that the trem block is a bit flimsy/ unsubstantial. Easily a match for a Squier. I would never buy a fender...don't want to add 30% onto the price for a name on a headstock.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      Glad you’ve found a guitar you bond with. There is a tutorial about adjusting the tremolo on a HB Strat on my channel if that’s any use to your quest for improved tremolo tuning stability 👍

  • @minkorrh
    @minkorrh 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Yep. Dan Erlewine is the G.O.A.T. when it comes to guitar tech.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Absolutely, he’s THE man

    • @johnschultz7765
      @johnschultz7765 ปีที่แล้ว

      Word.
      I was also glad that Phill did a shout out to Frank Ford as well.

  • @BrianPremo
    @BrianPremo ปีที่แล้ว +1

    When you said a 30 pound strat I thought “damn, and I thought my Les Paul was heavy!”

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      🤣 I swear I’ve played 70’s Les Paul’s that weigh close to that.

  • @BrianBrazilHarmonica
    @BrianBrazilHarmonica 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    If would have spent $359.00 on better Harley Benton Fusion-T HH HT Roasted FBB you would have a gotten great well made Tele style Guitar with a roaster maple neck and fretboard with steel frets and 2 nice alnico humbuckers. The controls have 3 way switch, volume control and tone control with a push / pull pot. The body has comfort body cut in the back of the body and behind the neck joint.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Totally agree, they look like incredible guitars and I would love to check one out.
      However, not everybody has $359.00 to spend, especially at the moment. I wanted to prove that you can make music with a budget instrument.

    • @nicopoppe4838
      @nicopoppe4838 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      the frets are gonna be still shitty… even if you glue the frets (wich the factory’s don’t do) you need to do a fret level. that’s the only way to get a nice low action. I set my HBs 1,25 and 1,6 mm on the 12 fret

  • @titans2720
    @titans2720 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    dang i guess i never realized heavier strings need a truss rod adjustment, and also that its the strings that lose intonation not the guitar itself. i always wondered why my tuner would say flat when i would tighten the saddle screw, i could never figure it out and always just had a professional do it for me.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      Now you know 👍

    • @morbidmanmusic
      @morbidmanmusic ปีที่แล้ว +1

      The guitar and the strings effect intonation. Things move and weather changes your guitar.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      Absolutely 👍

  • @freddiejvr
    @freddiejvr ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Gold

  • @ryanferris7841
    @ryanferris7841 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Every brand new guitar needs set up to some extent regardless of price

  • @fullwaverecked
    @fullwaverecked ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Sorry! Can't watch this... Till I go watch part one. 🤟😎🎃✌️Cheers!

  • @whitex4652
    @whitex4652 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I could tell some stories about original Fenders and Gibson's... you would weep and be happy that there are HBs...

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว

      Oh I bet, I’ve played some hideous old guitars. I hate this idea that all old Fenders and Gibson’s are inherently great. I’ve played expensive fenders that play less well than this HB 👍

  • @jeffhopkins5704
    @jeffhopkins5704 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    1:26 has someone slackened the neck off to make the HB look bad? No HB I`ve ever owned has had a gap at the front of the neck pocket.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      No Jeff, this video was filmed in real time and edited afterwards, we just took everything as we found it.

  • @brusselssprouts560
    @brusselssprouts560 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    An opinion from your luthier about its value for money would have been good. HB are good value if you get them setup right, but his personal opinion would have been really helpful. Hats off to luthiers. They are salts of the Earth

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      There’s a summary of Phill’s thoughts at the end of the final video in the series, plus I’m about to upload some more videos - using it on a pro recording session and 60 date theatre / arena tour.

    • @brusselssprouts560
      @brusselssprouts560 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@ScottPoleyMusic I se! I didn't realise that and will look out for it. You may want to investigate this too (unless you have already) th-cam.com/video/KaewEB1yQxc/w-d-xo.html
      My luthier has worked on a PRS Core, SE version and this and he says the HB is well worth the investment!

  • @slydawgg
    @slydawgg 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Ive got 2 Harley Benton’s and they are great for the money.Ive been a gigging musician(Bass) for 30 years and i want a few guitars around the house.I like to tinker with the set up when i get one and Harley Bentons are ideal for this.

    • @ScottPoleyMusic
      @ScottPoleyMusic  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      They’re really good 👍 I’m currently using mine on a tour of the UK. 11 shows in and it’s consistent and sounding great!

    • @slydawgg
      @slydawgg 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ScottPoleyMusic Exallent 👍