Introduction to the PB-62LA
The debate surrounding ‘relic’ guitars has been ongoing as the trend began. While some players appreciate the vintage vibe of a pre-worn instrument, others view it as a misleading gimmick for those who desire a seasoned appearance without the effort of aging their gear.
Nonetheless, the guitar industry continues to thrive, with manufacturers producing instruments as long as there’s demand.Fender’s Road Worn series was a trailblazer in this realm during the late 2000s, but can we find relic’d models at such an accessible price point as the one we’re reviewing today?
Harley Benton, a brand under the umbrella of German music retailer Thomann, has emerged as a remarkable success story in the world of budget instruments. Their offerings,notably in the bass category,range from classic designs to innovative models,appealing to both novice and professional musicians alike.
Recently,Harley Benton introduced a pair of affordably priced Aged Series basses,inspired by the PB-62 and JB-62 models,featuring what they describe as ‘hand-aged’ finishes. Today, we’ll focus on the PB-62LA, presented in a Light aged Olympic white finish.
Specifications Overview
- Price: $238 | £214 | €249
- type: Four-string electric bass
- Body Material: American alder
- Neck: ‘Lightly caramelised’ Canadian maple, D shape
- Fingerboard Material/Radius: laurel, 305mm
- Scale Length: 34″/864mm
- Nut Width: 43mm, graphite
- Frets: 20, medium jumbo nickel silver
- Hardware: Aged chrome – CB01-CR machine heads, B401 bridge with brass saddles, string retainer
- String Spacing at Bridge: 20mm
- Electronics: 1x Isola VT-PB Alnico 5 split-coil, Volume, Tone
- Weight: 7.5lb/3.4kg
- Options: Heavy Aged finishes available at the same price.
- Left-Handed Options: None
- Finishes: light Aged Olympic White (as reviewed), Light Aged Black
- Case: None
- Contact: Harley Benton
Quality of Construction
Build Quality Rating: ★★★★
At first glance, the PB-62LA impresses with its solid construction, especially considering its budget-pleasant price. The body is crafted from alder, adhering to traditional Fender designs, while the ‘lightly caramelised’ maple neck is topped with a laurel fingerboard, a common alternative to rosewood in more affordable models.
The hardware appears robust,featuring a substantial Sandberg-style string retainer and brass bridge saddles,all of which have been tastefully aged to match the overall aesthetic.
speaking of aesthetics, the Light Aged finish presents a convincing vintage look from a distance. Though, upon closer inspection, the thin satin poly finish reveals distinct edges around the wear patches.
However, considering the price point of just over £200, one cannot expect the same level of detail as vintage-correct nitrocellulose finishes. The nature of this finish allows it to continue aging, possibly developing a more authentic look as it acquires genuine wear over time.
The neck, on the other hand, has a well-executed aged appearance that feels authentic. though, minor imperfections at the fret ends detract slightly from the overall quality, and the laurel fingerboard could benefit from some conditioning.
Playability Assessment
Playability Rating: ★★★★☆
With classic fender-like ergonomics, this bass is a pleasure to play whether seated or standing.
the neck is relatively thick, featuring the traditional wider nut width typical of P-basses, with a D-shaped profile that offers medium depth and a comfortable grip. While Precision enthusiasts will likely appreciate this design, Jazz Bass players may find it less accommodating.
However,the initial setup leaves much to be desired; the strings were set too high at the bridge,requiring adjustment for optimal playability.
Once adjusted, the PB-62LA offers a satisfying playing experience. The aged neck feels comfortable, and both the body and neck resonate pleasantly, which is ofen not the case in this price range. Additionally,the bass is lightweight,making it easy to handle whether you’re playing seated or standing.
Sound Quality
Sound Quality Assessment
Sound Rating: ★★★☆☆
Out of the box, the PB-62LA’s Isola VT-PB alnico 5 pickup is positioned too low, which affects its performance.
After adjusting the pickup closer to the strings, it begins to produce a more defined sound. However, even at its highest setting, the output remains noticeably weaker compared to my other P-bass models, including an ’83 Ibanez Roadstar and a newer Washburn Scavenger that I also have for comparison.
In extensive testing with various Line 6 HX Stomp patches, ranging from clean tones to overdriven sounds, it became evident that the Harley Benton lags behind in output strength.
The bass delivers a respectable Precision tone,characterized by a solid low-mid presence and a slightly aggressive high end.
Despite its shortcomings, the PB-62LA produces a commendable Precision bass tone with a satisfying low-mid focus and a hint of bite in the treble, likely enhanced by the fresh strings.
While it remains enjoyable to play when plugged in, I can’t shake the feeling that a more powerful pickup would significantly enhance its performance.
Final Thoughts
Harley Benton aims to provide a selection of its popular Fender-style guitars and basses with an ‘authentic,hand-aged’ finish through the Aged Series,promising that each instrument will be unique.
While skeptics of relic finishes may remain unconvinced, many players will appreciate what Harley Benton has created.
In terms of its objectives, the PB-62LA is a commendable effort. Although the pickup could use improvement, the overall build quality and playability of the instrument are notable. Once properly set up, it offers a delightful playing experience, and the Light aged finish, while not the most refined, is visually appealing and likely to develop character over time.
For those who are skeptical about relic finishes, this bass still offers a lot of enjoyment.
Guitar World Verdict: The PB-62LA may not be the pinnacle of realism in relic finishes, but it certainly looks stylish. It’s a well-constructed bass with quality hardware at an unbeatable price. Upgrade the pickup, and you’ll have a formidable instrument on your hands.
Swipe to scroll horizontally
|
Test |
Results |
Score |
|---|---|---|
|
build Quality |
Despite some cost-saving relic techniques, this instrument is visually appealing and exceptionally well-constructed, featuring substantial and nicely-aged hardware. |
★★★★ |
|
Playability |
It embodies classic Precision Bass characteristics, well-balanced and enjoyable to play. However, some adjustments may be necessary after unboxing. |
★★★★☆ |
|
Sound |
While it captures the classic P-bass sound, the pickup requires significant amplification to be heard, as it is noticeably weak even after adjustments. |
★★★☆☆ |
|
Overall |
Given its low price, this bass is an excellent choice for those seeking a vintage-style P-bass, especially if you consider upgrading the pickup. |
★★★★☆ |
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Unleashing the Groove: A Deep Dive into the Harley Benton PB-62LA Bass!
Overview of the Harley Benton PB-62LA Bass
The Harley Benton PB-62LA Bass is a remarkable instrument that combines affordability with quality craftsmanship. Designed for both beginners and seasoned players, this bass guitar offers a vintage vibe with modern playability. With its striking aesthetics and solid construction, the PB-62LA has quickly become a favorite among bassists looking for a reliable and stylish instrument.
Key Features
- Body Material: American alder
- Neck: Lightly caramelized Canadian Maple
- Fingerboard: Laurel with a 305mm radius
- Scale Length: 34 inches (864mm)
- Pickup: Isola VT-PB Alnico 5 split-coil
- Weight: Approximately 7.5 lbs (3.4 kg)
- Finishes: Available in Light Aged Olympic White and Light Aged Black
Sound Quality
The sound of the Harley Benton PB-62LA is characterized by its warm, punchy tone that is ideal for a variety of musical styles. The Isola VT-PB Alnico 5 pickup delivers a classic P-bass sound, providing a thick low-mid focus with a subtle bite in the high end. This makes it suitable for genres ranging from rock to funk.
Sound Testing
During sound tests, the PB-62LA was compared with other popular P-bass models. While it may not reach the output levels of higher-end instruments, it still offers a satisfying tonal quality. Players noted that with proper amplification, the bass can hold its own in a band setting.
Playability and Comfort
The PB-62LA is designed with player comfort in mind. Its D-shaped neck profile and traditional P-bass nut width make it easy to navigate the fretboard. The lightweight design ensures that players can perform for extended periods without discomfort.
Setup and Adjustments
Out of the box, some players may find the setup requires minor adjustments. The strings may need to be lowered at the bridge for optimal playability. Once adjusted, the bass provides a smooth playing experience, making it a joy to use for practice or live performances.
Build Quality
Harley Benton has a reputation for producing well-constructed instruments, and the PB-62LA is no exception. The body is crafted from solid American Alder, known for its resonance and tonal qualities. The hardware, including aged chrome machine heads and a brass saddle bridge, adds to the overall durability of the instrument.
Visual Appeal
The Light Aged finish gives the PB-62LA a vintage look that many players appreciate. While the finish may not be as complex as higher-end models, it effectively captures the essence of a well-loved instrument. Over time, the finish will continue to develop character, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
Benefits of the Harley Benton PB-62LA
- Affordability: Priced competitively, making it accessible for all musicians.
- Versatility: Suitable for various music genres, from rock to jazz.
- Comfortable Playability: Lightweight and ergonomically designed for ease of use.
- Stylish Design: Vintage aesthetics that appeal to many players.
practical Tips for Players
- Consider upgrading the pickup for enhanced sound quality.
- Regularly check and adjust the setup to maintain optimal playability.
- Use quality strings to maximize tonal output and sustain.
- Keep the bass clean and well-maintained to preserve its appearance and functionality.
Case Studies: Player experiences
Many players have shared thier positive experiences with the Harley Benton PB-62LA. For instance, a local band reported that the bass performed exceptionally well during live gigs, providing a solid foundation for their sound. Another user highlighted its effectiveness in studio recordings, noting that it captured the desired tone with clarity.
Specifications Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Body Material | American Alder |
| Neck Material | Lightly caramelized Canadian maple |
| Fingerboard | Laurel, 305mm Radius |
| Pickup Type | Isola VT-PB Alnico 5 Split-Coil |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs (3.4 kg) |
| Scale Length | 34 inches (864mm) |
Frist-Hand Experience
As a player who has spent considerable time with the harley Benton PB-62LA, I can attest to its reliability and performance. The bass feels great in hand, and the tonal quality is notable for its price range. Whether jamming with friends or performing on stage, the PB-62LA consistently delivers a solid performance.
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