And here be your timestamps: 00:00 Hello! 00:25 Introduction and what we’re doing today 01:34 Specs and info 03:32 Today’s rig and plan Clean Sounds 04:54 Clean tone reference chords 05:34 Poppy barre chords 06:04 Funky rhythm chords 06:18 Country ballad arpeggios 06:31 Country lead sound 06:46 Country pop strummed chords 07:05 Blues progression 07:29 Indie pop picked chord arpeggios 07:48 Retro soul rhythm tone 08:10 Droning pop chords Clean Channel with Greer Lightspeed 08:27 Indie rhythm chords 08:55 Indie octave chords riff 09:19 Upbeat indie rock barre chords 09:43 Edgy indie barre chords 10:10 Kings Of Leon inspired indie rock riff 10:25 AC/DC inspired classic rock riff 10:56 Groovy classic rock riff 11:21 Classic rock rhythms 11:40 Airbourne inspired rock riff Lead Channel on Amp 11:56 Classic hard rock riff 12:13 Hard rock riff 12:30 Hard rock lead tone 12:55 Glam rock riff 13:24 Foo Fighters inspired modern rock riff 13:42 Alt rock riff 14:06 Pop punk riff 14:31 Pop punk melodic lead riff 14:47 Green Day inspired punk rock riff 15:14 Punk rock power chords 15:40 Progressive rock riff (Drop D tuning) 15:56 Modern rock palm-muted power chords (Drop D) 16:20 Rage Against The Machine inspired groovy riff (Drop D) Clean Channel w/Revv G3 Distortion Pedal (all in Drop D) 16:51 Metal chugging riff 17:24 Hardcore punk riff 17:40 Mastodon inspired metal riff with country twang 18:03 Glam metal melodic lead sound 18:19 Rammstein inspired industrial metal riff 18:32 Classic heavy metal/sludge riff 19:05 My thoughts - Juniors are surprisingly versatile 20:06 Comparing the two guitars: price 20:41 Looks 21:26 Build quality and hardware 22:26 Playability 22:52 Does the DC-60 Junior balance on a strap? 23:18 Necks and neck profiles 23:49 Weight 24:27 Sounds discussion 26:33 Do you really need a neck pickup? 27:16 What’s the competition for these guitars? 28:16 My conclusions on the guitars 28:40 Which guitar would I buy (again)? 29:12 Final conclusion and goodbye
Hands down the best tone demonstrations on YT, appreciate you try to simulate all possible music with each guitar in a short way, sooo excellent and helpfull. Thank you for your job and effort! I think the DC would benefit from the neck pickup, whereas the SC is at it's best as it is, as you said there is some magic about the SC Junior.
Thanks so much, really happy you are still finding my vids useful! I totally agree about the SC Junior... and I would love to try a DC with a neck pickup. Maybe one day HB will make one. Rock on!
Ha ha, thanks! Yeah, it always shocks me how few people actually play clean on here... I aim to provide at least one riff/sound/style for everyone watching the vids to find it useful :)
@@RichWordsMusic and that's why I always end up watching your videos! you made me pull the trigger on my JA-60, thanks to you I pretty much knew what I was in for. thank you very much, keep up the great work :)
I've been looking at the SC Junior and the DC Junior. After hearing the SC , I have definitely made up my mind. The punk tone is exactly what I'm looking for. Thanks, this is the best review of this guitar and extremely detailed.
Hello. Thank,s again for a very good comparison/review of those two guitars. I really love the SG look, but in the end my two cents fell on the singel cut Junior. I don’t now which I would buy. I have my eyes on the HB CST-24 P90 model and others to. But they have two P90 pickups…..maybe I don’t have use for two anyway…..🤔🤔. Anyway.s thank you very much. Appreciate those tests for affordable guitars. Regards from a chilly Sweden 🇸🇪
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it! It's a tricky one, for sure. I agree with you on the SG/Junior debate - the Junior is the pick for me. And, when I play it I don't miss a neck pickup at all (I'm actually usually on the bridge pickup whatever guitar I'm playing). You can get some neck-esque sounds from it by turning down the tone knob, playing closer to the neck, etc. Still, if you really want neck sounds, the CST-24 is the way to go! I've not tried those, but I have heard they are excellent. I hope you can get a new guitar to help you warm up a bit soon! Greetings from grey, rainy Germany ;)
I agree - there's some magic in that guitar! I was very lucky to find it. For the price, it's basically unbeatable. Glad you enjoyed the video, and rock on!
The Junior sounds awesome, i think the sg sounds a bit thin ? Maybe the pick ups could do with raising a little ? For my money though, the Junior wins hands down 👌 great video, thanks 😻🎸🎸👌🔥🔥🔥
Thanks Jens, I find the comparisons really fun and eye-opening to do as well. I'm also preparing a cull at some point... so I know how hard that is ;) Hope we both get to treat ourselves again soon!
@@RichWordsMusic Yeah, it is hard to let them go sometimes. And I actually treated myself and bought the Ibanez AZES31 mainly due to your video. What a guitar!
@@jensnilsson1507 Oh, great score! The AZES31 is a wonderful guitar. I've asked the Ibanez guys to keep dibs on the exact one I had for my videos so I can buy it when they get another one in :) The question is: which guitar can I let go to make space for it on the rack?
@@RichWordsMusic Oh yes, that's the never ending question 🙂. Good choice to keep dibs on the AZES. I'm really impressed with it and once you pick it up it is hard to put it down. So agree with what you said in your video: punches well above it's price!
@@jensnilsson1507 It really does, and it's so versatile as well. I would have absolutely loved that guitar back when I was strarting out years ago. Great that you're enjoying yours!
Off the Bat they both sound good in their own right - but the SC Junior sounds more alive, rounded and up front- seems to like chugging just that bit more - but i can see the DC will cut through if your playing through a lead channel but my choice would be the SC Junior maybe it sounds a bit more rounded of the bat because of the single cut design i.e more body wood on the upper bout (cutaway) - i have ordered a SC Junior on this sound test - Great comparison Rich - keep em coming !!!
There is some magic in that SC Junior for me... and it does love the classic rock, AC/DC type stuff, which is where those mids come to the fore! The only problem is gloss black guitars are very hard to shoot videos with, or take pictures of ;) They reflect everything and all the fingerprints and smudges show up too easily!
It's amazing how both these two handle the metal stuff. Most people expect P90s to give up way before then. I agree on the looks and color: HB really got the Pelham Blue right. And gloss black guitars are simply terrible to video!
@@RichWordsMusic Well Tony Iommi started the whole Metal thing with P90's my music covers the vibe of every Metal genre. On a tune with an extra heavy sluggish massive sound thing I reach for my very vintage Ibanez with P90's. Guys these days buy with their eyes if the brand is budget than it simply has to be less than. The H. Bentons are entry level Pro. Many current MIM Fenders are unplayable out of the box and need a trip to your tech, some even need a bit of fretwork. I am 75 and in the 60's one in 3 Fender 50's guitars had a gap in the heel joint big enough to stick a credit card in. This was just accepted even by the buyers as just normal. It was not an adjustment issue the heel was too wide or the neck too narrow. Guitars are like vintage cars the exceptional ones were loved and survived. The junk did not so the myth is all 50's Fenders are killer. Bentons quality control these days surpasses that of the 50's Fenders.You can not rent a guitar for 2 years for the price of some Bentons so keep it 2 years and any money you get selling it is gravy. In my mind it is a nobrainer purchase. You can't lose.
Hi Rich, thanks for doing this one! It's cool the HB make these really affordable instruments anyone can play and they are killer for the price indeed. As you say in the conclusuon, the SC has more balls and I do prefer it aesthetically, too. Raising the DC's pup would be really interesting, but I believe the less lower mids thing is more down to the body as between LPs and SGs in general... Btw based on your and other reviews I decided to pull the trigger on a HB junior recently, but in the end chose the DC FAT because of the (a little) thicker neck, satin finish, ebony board and fret access. No regrets, the thing is resonant as hell and plays very well. My only criticism would be towards the nut, which is cut too wide especially for the thinner strings, so the G goes out of tune often and the pickup is too low as on your DC. But these are minor issues, nothing that can't be fixed... Cheers!
Happy new guitar day with your DC Junior FAT! I still play mine a lot, and really enjoy it. It's a pure rock and roll guitar. A shame about the nut on yours, but as you say, nothing that can't be fixed. It is amazing how much Harley Benton seem to be able to squeeze into their guitars for the price... no other brands seem to be able to get close on their value/quality mix. Great for us players, I suppose! And yes, overall I'd say the SC Junior is the more forgiving guitar, for sure - it's just easier to get on with and get consistently great sounds out of. I may get a shim for the DC at some point and maybe that'll change things up!
@@RichWordsMusic thanks, Rich! Yeah, I agree. Also I'm glad the HB make their guitars in Indonesia, not China. Nothing against Chinese luthiers, but I don't want to feed their regime too much... Btw planning to shim the DC, too to get more volume and balls out of it.
Great Video... WOW you really left no stone unturned when comparing the SC Junior. I watched several of your videos yesterday comparing the SC Junior. I have one on order and can not wait for it to show. I almost bought the DC60 a few months ago but went for the Gibson. I wanted the Les Paul Junior also but could not buy 2 expensive guitars. So far everything you have compared the SC Junior to it in my opinion seems the SC Junior come out on top sound wise. And for the money spent there are flaws in the Gibson finish. I can not wait to compare my two when the HB. shows up. I am pretty sure I will not be disappointed. Thanks for all the great videos.
Thanks a lot! Yeah, I always try and answer all the questions I might have about any piece of gear... which does sometimes lead to long videos! But I have a lot of fun doing it too. I'm actually really interested to hear what you think when your SC Junior shows up, and how you feel it compares to the more expensive guitar, so do give me some feedback when it arrives! There's some magic in my SC Junior, and I know a few others who have one and they all seem to feel the same. For the price, they're absolutely fantastic! I've played some great Gibsons too, and a few not so great ones, but of course they're many times more expensive... and I've seen a few with bad QC issues and finish flaws too. If the HB comes anywhere close, you're on to a winner! :)
@@RichWordsMusic The guitar showed up a couple days late. I have now been playing it for a week and like it. With that being said it will be my last Harley Benton or anything else purchased from Tohmann. I am trying to not sound petty. The guitar showed up with a broken string. I replaced the strings, but then got thinking I bought a new guitar and should not have to buy new strings before I can play it. I wrote Tohmann and explained. They said strings are not covered under warranty. I then told them it had a broken string out of the box. first they wanted a picture of the broken string. After I sent the picture they then wanted a receipt. I buy strings in bulk and did not have a receipt, and again explained to them. They acted like I was trying to scam them on a $5.00 set of strings. My last response to them was They need me I can buy guitars anyplace. I do not need them. I am very disappointed with the way I was treated and this will be my last purchase from them..
@@garyp5522 I'm sorry to hear that. A broken string might not seem like a lot to Thomann, but I totally imagine how that would've made you feel when opening up the box for the first time. And ultimately, if you were made to feel like the 'guilty' one here, that's not good. The way I see things, the customer should be number one and should be treated as such! A real shame, but I am happy that the guitar itself is something you are able to enjoy.
@@RichWordsMusic It must be a big deal to Tohmann because they did not even offer to send a single string. LOL I totally can not believe how they treated me. I still like your great videos.
Excellent review. I recently bought a 2015 Gibson LP Special and I don't care for it at all due to the odd neck shape and pickup. I think I'll order up one of these instead. I'm not shy about modding so if I don't like the tone I'll install a Wolfetone, Gibson or other aftermarket P90 pickup. P90s are pretty simple so I may like the HB just fine. I'm a Fender man so the Jr. will never be my main guitar. I'll compare to the Epiphone LP Jr. and make a call.
Thanks! Yep, the SC Junior is the more rounded guitar, and it's more forgiving in a way too - but the DC cuts through anything! It's wonderful for AC/DC-esque vibes.
Caught this one also. They were similar, but I noticed the SC sounded a little louder and a bit fatter. Then I learned later the SC's pickup is closer to the strings. And another commentor pointed out how the pickup on the SC is slightly further away from the bridge. These two facts add up to how I heard it. I love how your Pelham Blue DC looks (very silver-blue metallic). I wonder if it looks exactly like that in real life. I've got other Pelham Blue guitars that look like there's a tinch of Aqua in there as well. I've noticed cameras can change the actual color a bit. Mine does it too, and I have a higher-end Nikon.
Yes, I've been wondering whether I should go through the effort of getting a shim in there under the DC's pickup, to raise it. I may indeed go for it, as it's such a light, fun guitar otherwise. Colorwise, it's kind of close to reality here, especially during the playing part when the light's not catching it too much (I use a Canon M50 by the way). It's not a full-on rich Pelham Blue. It almost tends more towards a pale grey in some lighting conditions. But, that said, it's a lovely color! I kind of wish the SC was that shade, because that guitar is amazingly good... I just don't love the black as much as I could. Thanks for watching this one too!
There is SC Junior with an weight of only 2,8kg. Those feel nice, but I prefer the Gretsch Streamliner Club instead, as an junior style guitar: Those have a neck pickup and are routed to fit any pickups.
Wow, I'd love one which was only 2.8 kg... that's just over 6 lbs.! I also now need to try the Gretsch Streamliner Club after googling it. Looks a great guitar!
I’m with Paul E. The DC-60 just looks better to me. And I already have a pair of SC’s so I’m set on them. I’ve never really been an SG (double cut) guy but maybe I should try another time, I do like p90’s
I think with SGs it's definitely more of a taste thing than an LP, which appeals to everyone. But my first proper guitar was an Epi SG, so I have a soft spot for them :) You should try one sometime!
@@RichWordsMusic I’ve played a few eppi an a handful of Big G DC’s I’m so heavy handed I push n pull the guitar out of tune with my left hand? I’ll try a few more and see how it goes.
Cool video…. they sound similar to me so maybe it comes down to looks? I’m thinking of trying the double cut Jr fat for a project guitar, as you can’t get anything better for the price. I own the similar black/tortoise single cut and love it as a leave in the car/workshop guitar, maybe the no worries is the best part of the Harley Benton line!
Thanks Jeff, glad you enjoyed it! Yep, looks come into it for sure. I find myself automatically playing a bit differently when I pick each one up... the SG shape is inextricably linked to AC/DC riffs for me! For a project guitar, the DC Junior FAT would be great - I have one, and I definitely want to 'improve' it at some point. I totally agree about HB being a great brand in terms of no worries... I take care of all my guitars, of course, but these are the ones I'm happier to throw around a bit more.
You mean the DC Junior, Stuart? I actually have a DC Junior FAT (which has a stacked P90) and they're pretty different experiences all round. I actually made a video comparing the SC Junior and the DC Junior FAT a while back, which might be helpful to you: th-cam.com/video/a57ykwxbNkc/w-d-xo.html The only one I haven't tried yet is the DC Junior model (with a genuine, unstacked P90 and a thinner neck). I suppose it's half way between the other two!
@@RichWordsMusic Yeah the fat one was the one I was thinking of, didn't occur to me for the non-fat version. I'm a lefty so my choices are limited anyway :p I picked up the Fazley hot rod v2 recently. A brand worth checking out as they seem similar to Harley Benton and are producing some interesting guitars!
@@stuie382 Yep, as a lefty you're limited for sure - although credit to HB, as they're better than some brands with left-handed models. I've heard a lot about Fazley recently, but never tried one... would you recommend the one you bought?
@@RichWordsMusic Yes and no*. Out the box the hot rod v2 was decent, and would have just needed a minor set up to be spot on. Given the final state I had in mind, the modding was a bit of a pain. The rear cavity is routed just big enough for the dime sized pots, so I needed to route it out to fit the CTS pot I was going to use. Same deal with the output Jack plate - it was set up for metric sizes and needed some love. Overall if you are the sort of person who wants to mod guitars, this is a great foundation. If you're more of a stock, out the box sort, then you're just a set up away from being happy. I've also heard good things about the outlaw series they do, but no lefty models so it left me sad
And here be your timestamps:
00:00 Hello!
00:25 Introduction and what we’re doing today
01:34 Specs and info
03:32 Today’s rig and plan
Clean Sounds
04:54 Clean tone reference chords
05:34 Poppy barre chords
06:04 Funky rhythm chords
06:18 Country ballad arpeggios
06:31 Country lead sound
06:46 Country pop strummed chords
07:05 Blues progression
07:29 Indie pop picked chord arpeggios
07:48 Retro soul rhythm tone
08:10 Droning pop chords
Clean Channel with Greer Lightspeed
08:27 Indie rhythm chords
08:55 Indie octave chords riff
09:19 Upbeat indie rock barre chords
09:43 Edgy indie barre chords
10:10 Kings Of Leon inspired indie rock riff
10:25 AC/DC inspired classic rock riff
10:56 Groovy classic rock riff
11:21 Classic rock rhythms
11:40 Airbourne inspired rock riff
Lead Channel on Amp
11:56 Classic hard rock riff
12:13 Hard rock riff
12:30 Hard rock lead tone
12:55 Glam rock riff
13:24 Foo Fighters inspired modern rock riff
13:42 Alt rock riff
14:06 Pop punk riff
14:31 Pop punk melodic lead riff
14:47 Green Day inspired punk rock riff
15:14 Punk rock power chords
15:40 Progressive rock riff (Drop D tuning)
15:56 Modern rock palm-muted power chords (Drop D)
16:20 Rage Against The Machine inspired groovy riff (Drop D)
Clean Channel w/Revv G3 Distortion Pedal (all in Drop D)
16:51 Metal chugging riff
17:24 Hardcore punk riff
17:40 Mastodon inspired metal riff with country twang
18:03 Glam metal melodic lead sound
18:19 Rammstein inspired industrial metal riff
18:32 Classic heavy metal/sludge riff
19:05 My thoughts - Juniors are surprisingly versatile
20:06 Comparing the two guitars: price
20:41 Looks
21:26 Build quality and hardware
22:26 Playability
22:52 Does the DC-60 Junior balance on a strap?
23:18 Necks and neck profiles
23:49 Weight
24:27 Sounds discussion
26:33 Do you really need a neck pickup?
27:16 What’s the competition for these guitars?
28:16 My conclusions on the guitars
28:40 Which guitar would I buy (again)?
29:12 Final conclusion and goodbye
Hands down the best tone demonstrations on YT, appreciate you try to simulate all possible music with each guitar in a short way, sooo excellent and helpfull. Thank you for your job and effort! I think the DC would benefit from the neck pickup, whereas the SC is at it's best as it is, as you said there is some magic about the SC Junior.
Thanks so much, really happy you are still finding my vids useful! I totally agree about the SC Junior... and I would love to try a DC with a neck pickup. Maybe one day HB will make one. Rock on!
there's absolutely no video showcasing clean tone of these. your thorough demos save the day!
Ha ha, thanks! Yeah, it always shocks me how few people actually play clean on here... I aim to provide at least one riff/sound/style for everyone watching the vids to find it useful :)
@@RichWordsMusic and that's why I always end up watching your videos! you made me pull the trigger on my JA-60, thanks to you I pretty much knew what I was in for. thank you very much, keep up the great work :)
I've been looking at the SC Junior and the DC Junior. After hearing the SC , I have definitely made up my mind. The punk tone is exactly what I'm looking for. Thanks, this is the best review of this guitar and extremely detailed.
Hello. Thank,s again for a very good comparison/review of those two guitars. I really love the SG look, but in the end my two cents fell on the singel cut Junior. I don’t now which I would buy. I have my eyes on the HB CST-24 P90 model and others to. But they have two P90 pickups…..maybe I don’t have use for two anyway…..🤔🤔. Anyway.s thank you very much. Appreciate those tests for affordable guitars. Regards from a chilly Sweden 🇸🇪
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it! It's a tricky one, for sure. I agree with you on the SG/Junior debate - the Junior is the pick for me. And, when I play it I don't miss a neck pickup at all (I'm actually usually on the bridge pickup whatever guitar I'm playing). You can get some neck-esque sounds from it by turning down the tone knob, playing closer to the neck, etc. Still, if you really want neck sounds, the CST-24 is the way to go! I've not tried those, but I have heard they are excellent. I hope you can get a new guitar to help you warm up a bit soon! Greetings from grey, rainy Germany ;)
Great video. Thanks.
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!
That sc you have really sounds amazing, always seems to win the head-to-head challenges.
Fantastic video thank you!
I agree - there's some magic in that guitar! I was very lucky to find it. For the price, it's basically unbeatable. Glad you enjoyed the video, and rock on!
The Junior sounds awesome, i think the sg sounds a bit thin ? Maybe the pick ups could do with raising a little ? For my money though, the Junior wins hands down 👌 great video, thanks 😻🎸🎸👌🔥🔥🔥
11:00, you get such a geat sound out of it! Love it.
Yeah, I love that! It's the kind of meaty clarity that only P90s will give you :) Such a rock and roll pickup! Cheers and rock on!
Love these comparison videos! Always tempted to get one of these but I need to cull some others first... keep up the good work!
Thanks Jens, I find the comparisons really fun and eye-opening to do as well. I'm also preparing a cull at some point... so I know how hard that is ;) Hope we both get to treat ourselves again soon!
@@RichWordsMusic Yeah, it is hard to let them go sometimes. And I actually treated myself and bought the Ibanez AZES31 mainly due to your video. What a guitar!
@@jensnilsson1507 Oh, great score! The AZES31 is a wonderful guitar. I've asked the Ibanez guys to keep dibs on the exact one I had for my videos so I can buy it when they get another one in :) The question is: which guitar can I let go to make space for it on the rack?
@@RichWordsMusic Oh yes, that's the never ending question 🙂. Good choice to keep dibs on the AZES. I'm really impressed with it and once you pick it up it is hard to put it down. So agree with what you said in your video: punches well above it's price!
@@jensnilsson1507 It really does, and it's so versatile as well. I would have absolutely loved that guitar back when I was strarting out years ago. Great that you're enjoying yours!
Off the Bat they both sound good in their own right - but the SC Junior sounds more alive, rounded and up front- seems to like chugging just that bit more - but i can see the DC will cut through if your playing through a lead channel but my choice would be the SC Junior maybe it sounds a bit more rounded of the bat because of the single cut design i.e more body wood on the upper bout (cutaway) - i have ordered a SC Junior on this sound test - Great comparison Rich - keep em coming !!!
The Junior wins slightly because it has a more pronounced mid range. Also the black Jnr looks lovely for want of a better description.
There is some magic in that SC Junior for me... and it does love the classic rock, AC/DC type stuff, which is where those mids come to the fore! The only problem is gloss black guitars are very hard to shoot videos with, or take pictures of ;) They reflect everything and all the fingerprints and smudges show up too easily!
I prefer the SG. To my eyes it has more a more pro vibe to it's look. I also am primarily a Metal guy.
It's amazing how both these two handle the metal stuff. Most people expect P90s to give up way before then. I agree on the looks and color: HB really got the Pelham Blue right. And gloss black guitars are simply terrible to video!
@@RichWordsMusic Well Tony Iommi started the whole Metal thing with P90's
my music covers the vibe of every Metal genre. On a tune with an extra heavy sluggish massive sound thing I reach for my very vintage Ibanez with P90's.
Guys these days buy with their eyes if the brand is budget than it simply has to be less than. The H. Bentons are entry level Pro. Many current MIM Fenders are unplayable out of the box and need a trip to your tech, some even need a bit of fretwork.
I am 75 and in the 60's one in 3 Fender 50's guitars had a gap in the heel joint big enough to stick a credit card in. This was just accepted even by the buyers as just normal. It was not an adjustment issue the heel was too wide or the neck too narrow. Guitars are like vintage cars the exceptional ones were loved and survived. The junk did not so the myth is all 50's Fenders are killer. Bentons quality control these days surpasses that of the 50's Fenders.You can not rent a guitar for 2 years for the price of some Bentons so keep it 2 years and any money you get selling it is gravy. In my mind it is a nobrainer purchase. You can't lose.
@@RichWordsMusic Yeah p90s are cool. Didn't your worn green epiphone p90 handle metal pretty darn good too, or do I remember it wrong?
@@jensnilsson1507 Yeah, the green Epi is also great for a bit of metal! I guess it's the noise that can put some people off, but it doesn't bother me.
Any decent guitar that’s been well setup and stays in tune nice is gonna sound good through a good amp.
That is true, and the setup is key!
Hi Rich, thanks for doing this one! It's cool the HB make these really affordable instruments anyone can play and they are killer for the price indeed. As you say in the conclusuon, the SC has more balls and I do prefer it aesthetically, too. Raising the DC's pup would be really interesting, but I believe the less lower mids thing is more down to the body as between LPs and SGs in general... Btw based on your and other reviews I decided to pull the trigger on a HB junior recently, but in the end chose the DC FAT because of the (a little) thicker neck, satin finish, ebony board and fret access. No regrets, the thing is resonant as hell and plays very well. My only criticism would be towards the nut, which is cut too wide especially for the thinner strings, so the G goes out of tune often and the pickup is too low as on your DC. But these are minor issues, nothing that can't be fixed... Cheers!
Happy new guitar day with your DC Junior FAT! I still play mine a lot, and really enjoy it. It's a pure rock and roll guitar. A shame about the nut on yours, but as you say, nothing that can't be fixed. It is amazing how much Harley Benton seem to be able to squeeze into their guitars for the price... no other brands seem to be able to get close on their value/quality mix. Great for us players, I suppose! And yes, overall I'd say the SC Junior is the more forgiving guitar, for sure - it's just easier to get on with and get consistently great sounds out of. I may get a shim for the DC at some point and maybe that'll change things up!
@@RichWordsMusic thanks, Rich! Yeah, I agree. Also I'm glad the HB make their guitars in Indonesia, not China. Nothing against Chinese luthiers, but I don't want to feed their regime too much... Btw planning to shim the DC, too to get more volume and balls out of it.
Great Video... WOW you really left no stone unturned when comparing the SC Junior. I watched several of your videos yesterday comparing the SC Junior. I have one on order and can not wait for it to show. I almost bought the DC60 a few months ago but went for the Gibson. I wanted the Les Paul Junior also but could not buy 2 expensive guitars. So far everything you have compared the SC Junior to it in my opinion seems the SC Junior come out on top sound wise. And for the money spent there are flaws in the Gibson finish. I can not wait to compare my two when the HB. shows up. I am pretty sure I will not be disappointed. Thanks for all the great videos.
Thanks a lot! Yeah, I always try and answer all the questions I might have about any piece of gear... which does sometimes lead to long videos! But I have a lot of fun doing it too. I'm actually really interested to hear what you think when your SC Junior shows up, and how you feel it compares to the more expensive guitar, so do give me some feedback when it arrives! There's some magic in my SC Junior, and I know a few others who have one and they all seem to feel the same. For the price, they're absolutely fantastic! I've played some great Gibsons too, and a few not so great ones, but of course they're many times more expensive... and I've seen a few with bad QC issues and finish flaws too. If the HB comes anywhere close, you're on to a winner! :)
@@RichWordsMusic I just opened a e mail that said the guitar will show up Monday. I will keep you posted.
@@RichWordsMusic The guitar showed up a couple days late. I have now been playing it for a week and like it. With that being said it will be my last Harley Benton or anything else purchased from Tohmann. I am trying to not sound petty. The guitar showed up with a broken string. I replaced the strings, but then got thinking I bought a new guitar and should not have to buy new strings before I can play it. I wrote Tohmann and explained. They said strings are not covered under warranty. I then told them it had a broken string out of the box. first they wanted a picture of the broken string. After I sent the picture they then wanted a receipt. I buy strings in bulk and did not have a receipt, and again explained to them. They acted like I was trying to scam them on a $5.00 set of strings. My last response to them was They need me I can buy guitars anyplace. I do not need them. I am very disappointed with the way I was treated and this will be my last purchase from them..
@@garyp5522 I'm sorry to hear that. A broken string might not seem like a lot to Thomann, but I totally imagine how that would've made you feel when opening up the box for the first time. And ultimately, if you were made to feel like the 'guilty' one here, that's not good. The way I see things, the customer should be number one and should be treated as such! A real shame, but I am happy that the guitar itself is something you are able to enjoy.
@@RichWordsMusic It must be a big deal to Tohmann because they did not even offer to send a single string. LOL I totally can not believe how they treated me. I still like your great videos.
Excellent review. I recently bought a 2015 Gibson LP Special and I don't care for it at all due to the odd neck shape and pickup. I think I'll order up one of these instead. I'm not shy about modding so if I don't like the tone I'll install a Wolfetone, Gibson or other aftermarket P90 pickup. P90s are pretty simple so I may like the HB just fine. I'm a Fender man so the Jr. will never be my main guitar. I'll compare to the Epiphone LP Jr. and make a call.
Great demo. The SC definitely has more low end but I reckon the DC would cut through more and has a more classic rock sound
Thanks! Yep, the SC Junior is the more rounded guitar, and it's more forgiving in a way too - but the DC cuts through anything! It's wonderful for AC/DC-esque vibes.
@@RichWordsMusic I see a DC60 in my future
@@jbh219 That sounds like a rocking future! Go for it, and I hope you love the guitar!
Caught this one also. They were similar, but I noticed the SC sounded a little louder and a bit fatter. Then I learned later the SC's pickup is closer to the strings. And another commentor pointed out how the pickup on the SC is slightly further away from the bridge. These two facts add up to how I heard it. I love how your Pelham Blue DC looks (very silver-blue metallic). I wonder if it looks exactly like that in real life. I've got other Pelham Blue guitars that look like there's a tinch of Aqua in there as well. I've noticed cameras can change the actual color a bit. Mine does it too, and I have a higher-end Nikon.
Yes, I've been wondering whether I should go through the effort of getting a shim in there under the DC's pickup, to raise it. I may indeed go for it, as it's such a light, fun guitar otherwise. Colorwise, it's kind of close to reality here, especially during the playing part when the light's not catching it too much (I use a Canon M50 by the way). It's not a full-on rich Pelham Blue. It almost tends more towards a pale grey in some lighting conditions. But, that said, it's a lovely color! I kind of wish the SC was that shade, because that guitar is amazingly good... I just don't love the black as much as I could. Thanks for watching this one too!
There is SC Junior with an weight of only 2,8kg. Those feel nice, but I prefer the Gretsch Streamliner Club instead, as an junior style guitar: Those have a neck pickup and are routed to fit any pickups.
Wow, I'd love one which was only 2.8 kg... that's just over 6 lbs.! I also now need to try the Gretsch Streamliner Club after googling it. Looks a great guitar!
I see my amp there!
I actually haven't tried either of these guitars into the ENGL yet... need to do that today! It's an amazing amp.
I’m with Paul E. The DC-60 just looks better to me. And I already have a pair of SC’s so I’m set on them. I’ve never really been an SG (double cut) guy but maybe I should try another time, I do like p90’s
I think with SGs it's definitely more of a taste thing than an LP, which appeals to everyone. But my first proper guitar was an Epi SG, so I have a soft spot for them :) You should try one sometime!
@@RichWordsMusic I’ve played a few eppi an a handful of Big G DC’s I’m so heavy handed I push n pull the guitar out of tune with my left hand? I’ll try a few more and see how it goes.
@@PooNinja Yeah, they can do that! You need a custom one with six-in-line tuners.... or a Trini Lopez. But then we're out of Junior territory!
@@RichWordsMusic 😂I have a jem Jr. , now I need a Sr. 😂🤘🏽
@@PooNinja Ha ha, that's exactly what you need!
Cool video…. they sound similar to me so maybe it comes down to looks? I’m thinking of trying the double cut Jr fat for a project guitar, as you can’t get anything better for the price. I own the similar black/tortoise single cut and love it as a leave in the car/workshop guitar, maybe the no worries is the best part of the Harley Benton line!
Thanks Jeff, glad you enjoyed it! Yep, looks come into it for sure. I find myself automatically playing a bit differently when I pick each one up... the SG shape is inextricably linked to AC/DC riffs for me! For a project guitar, the DC Junior FAT would be great - I have one, and I definitely want to 'improve' it at some point. I totally agree about HB being a great brand in terms of no worries... I take care of all my guitars, of course, but these are the ones I'm happier to throw around a bit more.
Are the poles higher on the black one?
No, but the pickup's overall slightly closer to the strings... the DC-60 Junior could use a shim one day.
The DC def a lot lighter sounding. ALSO, the pick up on the SC model, is FURTHER away from the bridge! That 1/4" can make ALL the difference as well!
Now that is an excellent point! I need to look into that further, I guess. Pickup position as well as height!
@@RichWordsMusic YEP!
👍🏻👍🏻
Cheers matey!
Great demp
Cheers Mike, glad you enjoyed it!
How do these two compare with the other junior HB make?
You mean the DC Junior, Stuart? I actually have a DC Junior FAT (which has a stacked P90) and they're pretty different experiences all round. I actually made a video comparing the SC Junior and the DC Junior FAT a while back, which might be helpful to you: th-cam.com/video/a57ykwxbNkc/w-d-xo.html
The only one I haven't tried yet is the DC Junior model (with a genuine, unstacked P90 and a thinner neck). I suppose it's half way between the other two!
@@RichWordsMusic
Yeah the fat one was the one I was thinking of, didn't occur to me for the non-fat version. I'm a lefty so my choices are limited anyway :p
I picked up the Fazley hot rod v2 recently. A brand worth checking out as they seem similar to Harley Benton and are producing some interesting guitars!
@@stuie382 Yep, as a lefty you're limited for sure - although credit to HB, as they're better than some brands with left-handed models.
I've heard a lot about Fazley recently, but never tried one... would you recommend the one you bought?
@@RichWordsMusic Yes and no*. Out the box the hot rod v2 was decent, and would have just needed a minor set up to be spot on.
Given the final state I had in mind, the modding was a bit of a pain. The rear cavity is routed just big enough for the dime sized pots, so I needed to route it out to fit the CTS pot I was going to use. Same deal with the output Jack plate - it was set up for metric sizes and needed some love.
Overall if you are the sort of person who wants to mod guitars, this is a great foundation. If you're more of a stock, out the box sort, then you're just a set up away from being happy.
I've also heard good things about the outlaw series they do, but no lefty models so it left me sad
@@RichWordsMusic The HB ja60 cc is tempting though. The blue looks amazing