I bought a Harley Benton B stock tenor guitar it only had a small scratch on it that I was able to polish out . Absolutely astounding guitar for the price.
Could NOT believe the sounds coming out of my earphones.. Far better than I expected, so it really is that good or you are a guitar wizard of rank and magnitude heretofore unknown in human history. Great song selection, as always, Mark.
Lol. Give all the credit to the guitar. I recorded it with a $50 mic, no post, all first takes. I wanted the guitar to shine. As always, the support is much appreciated. Mark
Your lead in song was Emerson Lake and Palmer. Haven't heard it in years and I didn't recognize the title you put up so.... I guessed. Dang, what a great tune from the past. Thanks !
Hey Rick. RUclips is the great humbler. There are 8 year old kids all around the world that play better than I'll ever play. That's actually a good thing though. It makes me stay in my lane and focus on what I do well: teach and play the 12-string. I'm not sure how many of my videos you've seen but I do a lot of stuff on the 12-string. I uploaded this yesterday if you're interested. 25 Classic 12-String Songs from the 60s ruclips.net/video/M0ncR5fCSEA/видео.html&ab_channel=8MinuteAxe. Either way, thanks for watching this one. I appreciate your time and your kind words. Have a great day and take care. Mark
I had this guitar and it was the best acoustic I've ever owned, and it too was flawless. Around $180 bucks shipped when I got it about 6 years ago. I love your selection of songs to demo it....well done.
This truly is the age of budget guitars, compared to the cheap guitars of the 90s when I was a kid that were actually cheap, that's not the case anymore. Wow solid mahogany. Gonna be a lot of happy boys and girls this year come Xmas time I bet.
I do not NEED another guitar, but you are causing me to WANT another guitar. You can never have too many guitars, right? I am a woodworker and a guitar player (probably a better woodworker), and I know how beautiful mahogany can be. The sound is fantastic, and I loved your song choices.
Thanks for this Mark. I started looking at HB guitars recently because I want to be have a nylon string sound without investing a lot of money into an instrument. I'm amazed at their prices. And from videos where they are featured they sound much more than half decent.
Sounds pretty good. I didn’t think I was in the market, but might be a buyer. I recognized most of those riffs but couldn’t remember some names. Would be cool to see a list.
Aren't HB guitars made in Indonesia? If so, not surprised at the quality of that guitar as there are some fantastic luthiers here (I live in Indonesia) making solid wood guitars that would be considered very affordable in the West. Even so, the value on that guitar is outstanding. The tone is reminiscent of my Martin DJr in solid sapele wood (which has tonal characteristics similar to mahogany).
Great information, Mark! (and as always really good guitar chops) My 25 year old Taylor is mahogany and love the way it rings with crisp clear sound. This HB looks and sounds great - another guitar makes my GAS (Guitar Acquisition Syndrome) list, sigh.
Hey Lowell, do you like a wider fingerboard. For years I only liked Taylor necks on acoustics but since I started playing fingerstyle seriously I'm searching for the best fit. Thanks so much for checking it out. Take care and enjoy your Sunday. Mark
@@8MinuteAxe Thanks, Mark. Yeah, I've gotten to where I only buy 1-3/4", and hopefully 2-3/8" string spacing at the bridge. I have big fingers...and I'm lazy. The other Martin 15 (with the slotted headstock), for example....
Well articulated Aaron. Currently the guitar is making the rounds of my guitar player buddies who all share your sentiments. I simply reported the info with the facts I had at hand. Solid wood: well, unless they can match sap and every wood grain in both directions, it's solid wood. It may not be the best cut, but I know solid wood. Playability is average. It has a slightly cheapest feel. How about this; yamaha 611 sold for $575 up until last year. 1/4 flame maple cap, two Seymours (p90 and classic hum) grover locking tuners (the high end ones), wilkenson bridge, tusq nut, stainless frets, maple neck with rosewood fingerboard. Retail on pickups, bridge, nut, tuners about $400. How about Orangewood. Solid wood with Torrefied spruce $450. Distributed out of California. My doubleneck HB $400. It's unbelievable. 20 years ago any solid wood guitar was gonna cost you $1500. My long-winded way of saying, I know brother. I agree. But I promise everything I stated in the video is accurate. Thanks for checking it out and thanks for weighing in please take care and be well mark
Hey Mark! Just stopping by to check out your latest uploads after a while! Harley Benton has taken the music RUclips scene by storm, they really do make affordable workhorse guitars! And not just guitars, but other instruments too. I, too, have been thinking long and hard about getting myself a Harley Benton Jazz Bass for Christmas, mainly 2 reasons: 1) it would be a great opportunity to learn something new and expand my horizons, becoming a better musician in the process 2) Those 1965-1969 Beatles basslines aren't going to learn themselves (lol) Hope all is well with you! We'll keep in touch! Take care bro! And keep up the quality videos, cuz they get better every time I tune in!!
I bought this guitar one year ago and it's really a good guitar, probably better than some at 500/600$. Even my luthier was impressed by the quality, the easy to play and the value for money of this guitar. A lot of guitarists have an a priori on this brand, but after hearing it they all say to me: "Wow great sound !". I play on it more than on my Takamine EN10C :)
Hey Dennis. That's awesome. I really appreciate you letting me know. I have close to 40 guitars and my three go tos right now are: affinity strat ($229), epiphone SG ($450 it's the one that sells new for around 900) and the enya go carbon fiber ($240). I have an 88 les paul, a 98 tele, a prs custom and none of them play as well. Have a great weekend and take care mark
@@8MinuteAxe Hey, I have also had this guitar for a awhile now (purchased after watching your video, thanks). Love it. I have been playing as it came out of the box; would like to lower the action slightly and put on new strings. Do you have strings you would recommend?
hot damn i have a 1995 takamine EN10C, i bought it years ago off a musician who wanted 500 euros for it, i was like done, didnt even haggle with him, i knew it was a good guitar, i knew another musican years ago that played live with one and the sound of it was gorgeous, anyway i asked the guy that was selling his 3 times are you sure you want to sell it? and he said yes, 2 hours later hes on the phone to me asking for it back because his gf blew up at him for selling it, i was like dude, i asked you 3 times, i didnt even haggle with you i gave you the 500 that you wanted in cash, im sorry but ive been after one of these for a long time and im not letting it go now
@@Doug23would you able to tell me if the logo on the headstock is a sticker or an inlay? I don't like it so my question is if it would be easy to remove, sand off?
Great video. It would be fantastic if you could get your hands on a Martin 000 15M and do a side by side comparison. I own 2 HB acoustics, a CLP-15M parlor and a CLG 48 CE. They both play way above their less-than-$250 price. Both of mine arrived here in Texas within 5 days of purchase, so I assume that Thomann warehouses their US stock here in the states. That relieves shipping delay worries.
So I asked Thomann about the timber used and they said it's solid okoume. Now I'm definitely no wood expert, but the characteristics of okoume are nothing like mahogany. Also it's quite a soft wood (for a hard wood). Very curious how it will hold up in the future. But for the price it's a bargain and it sounds good too!
I talked to Bene and he says it's solid mahogany as stated on the website. A very brief Google search yielded three sites that claim that its near impossible to distinguish between the two woods...so I googled the woods as they apply to guitar. According to one site Okoume is better (fuller, rounder, and fatter). The other says it's softer and ages better. I've been playing professionally for 30 years and I honestly couldn't tell the difference between woods that are very dissimilar, let alone these. The way a guitars wood responds is definitely not my wheelhouse. Sitka is obviously sharper and brighter than mahogany buy that's all I can tell. Funny story. I was on a blog that was talking about the Taylor 150E and how they changed the wood for the back and sides from sapele to walnut and people were going crazy talking about the nuances and how different things were. Bob Taylor got on there and said that he can't tell a d*** difference And that the reason for the change was purely esthetic. I don't know if these people are cork sniffers or delusional but none of my playing makes me an expert. Mark
@@8MinuteAxe I had the solid top version of this and it did sound a bit 'warmer' than my Eastman e1d with Sitka top. It was a very well constructed guitar and the sound was great. Playability too. I think that's what it's all about in the end. I sold it to a friend for a small amount because he was immediately connected to it. Contemplating if I should go for this all solid version now 😅
Hey Xavy. Thanks for the tip. I had never heard of that one. Definitely gonna give it a try! Thanks so much for checking out the video. I really appreciate your time and comment. Have a great weekend and take care. Mark
Hey Floyd. For sure. I purchased the guitar as a kick around but over the course of two weeks it's now my #1 fingerstyle guitar. It came perfectly set up but now that's it's my #1 I swapped out the bone for Tusq and added just a bit of relief. It's perfect now. Thanks so much for checking it out. I appreciate it. Mark
Wow that sounds fantastic! Excellent playing too Mark! Still looking for a 12 string at the moment. Curious if you've come across Luna Guitars. Looking at a 12 on American Musical Supply and thinking of buying it for $219
okoume or shmokoume, it really sounds like a hog guitar. has that scoop and warm pleasant sweetness on the top. I was eyeing sigma s000m-15 but this got my attention
Fudge. In fairness, I let one of my students borrow it right after this video and I haven't gotten it back. Not to change the subject but if you're looking for bang for your buck, check out Sire. I don't do ANY paid reviews nor do I accept endorsements. I bought a Sire LP and I'm blown away by it. They have a couple of auditorium acoustics that I bet are amazing and they just introduced a new line of nylon string and jazz guitars. I really appreciate you checking out the video and I apologize for not following up like I said I would. I am grateful for your time and I hope you have a great week. -Mark
Hey Mark. I'm on the hunt for a 12 string acoustic that doesn't have electrics in it. I bought a HyVibe aftermarket kit a while back but I'm having trouble locating a quality unit to donate the kit into. Cheaper may be better in this case as I've never heard a HV (made by LAG) in a 12er. Even LAG don't make one. The one requirement is the instrument has to be cross braced to fit the actuators. May have to go for a used Guild or something, but would rather new. Do Taka make a plain acoustic 12?
I bought this guitar and I'm happy with it . Only thing that bothers me is the action . I think it's pretty high action do you think I should lower it or leave it be ?
If you're gonna lower the action, first see if you have any relief in the neck. You may be able to get where you want to be with a couple of quarter turns to the right (clockwise). If the neck is already straight maybe reach out to Thomann as ask if they have any shims under the saddle (sometimes manufacturers will put a couple of shims in there. If so, take one out and see. The last option is sanding the saddle. If you're gonna do that I would buy a couple of bone saddles on Amazon and see if you can get it right. Just remember that if you're gonna sand the saddle, slowly and evenly is key. Let me know how you make.out markaranalli@gmail.com. good luck! Mark
Hello great video I would like to buy a first Harley benton guitar the one in the video is entirely solid wood and have you tried the HB CLD 15 MCE solid wood which must be great and looks like the SIGMA DM15E Thank you for the video
Hey Vlad. I'm actually playing it right now. Says something about it considering I have a lot of guitars to choose from. Thanks so much for checking out the video. Have a great weekend. Mark
@@8MinuteAxe Thanks! I like visiting your channel. It is always fun to watch you playing, to watch how a Master can make even a toothbrush sing. There are variations of this guitar with cut out. I wonder if they sound similar.
Hello, I watched your demonstration with interest. but I have a question about the guitar behind you on the wall with a clear stripe on the top. can you tell me what the brand (taylor i guess) and model is ?
i love my $3000 Taylor, but the sound difference is not 10 times better than HB. (not this model, just sayin that their guitars are on par with the major brands for a fraction of the price)
Hey Javier. I do. I play bass in several videos, on all of my cover songs, and currently 4 of my students are bass students. Are you primarily a bass player? If you're looking for a recommendation for a good bass, you can never go wrong with Squier. For just a little bit more you can a Sterling by Music Man. If you need help with something, email me at markaranalli@gmail.com. Have a great day. Mark
Hey Doug. I haven't played the 00015 I'm years but I've played plenty of Martin's and there's no doubt the martin feels better (the fingerboard is the most noticible) but I would say that this is more than just a. It's not bad for $200 actually a quality guitar. Thanks so much for checking out the video. I appreciate your time and comment. take care and be well. mark.
LOL. I don't do any paid endorsements. Everything on my channel is done freely for free and given away. As a matter of fact, Thomann (makers of HB) reached out to me a couple of years ago and asked if I'd like to try a few guitars. I said, sure, send me x, y, and z and I'll try them out and either send them back or give them away. As fate would have it, the next 3 or 4 weeks were some of the worst stats I've had on my channel. They ghosted me. I literally emailed them 15 times and they wouldn't even give me the courtesy of a we are no longer interested. It sucks because the guy I was dealing with has a reputation for being a really nice guy. Anyway, this is a nice guitar for the money. I really appreciate your time. Mark
I don't think this is a solid wood guitar, only the top is made of solid Gabon mahogany. I never heard of Gabon mahogany and found out it is not a "true" mahogany but looks like African mahogany. From the Thomann site "The Harley Benton Custom Line CLA-15M is constructed entirely of Gabon mahogany and also features a solid wood top." Nothing about the guitar having solid back and sides. I hope that if you find out what I believe is true that you revise or correct your video as you are advising people they can buy an all-solid wood guitar at that price. Again, show me the link that says this guitar has solid back and sides.
#1 It doesnt say Gabon mahogany anywhere in the description. It says 100% solid mahogany top, back and sides. #2 I've been playing for almost 40 years, I know what laminate looks like. #3 next time, before you go out of your way to discredit or accuse somebody, check your facts, You could have even checked the 15 other videos about the guitar, including reviews from channels much larger than mine all talking about what an amazing deal it is for a SOLID WOOD guitar.
@@8MinuteAxe You are right. I looked at another site. I apologize. I searched for Harley Benton CLA-15M .. but not the solid wood version. I agree with you as that is an amazing deal for an all-solid wood guitar. And you are also right that it says mahogany and not Gabon mahogany as in the version with laminated back and sides. Thank you for providing me the link as obviously I found a similar ... but totally wrong .. link for the guitar.
@@8MinuteAxe As I said I was completely wrong. You do not need to apologize as I again assure you it was my honest mistake ... a lazy mistake ... but I never meant in any way to deride your post. Strangely enough I have been looking for just that type of guitar and until your video review I did not know it existed at that price point. So thank you.
John Sykes would never play like that. He has a real electric guitar. Yesä a 1978 Gibson Telephonecaster Custom. The Harley Benton guitar sounded very good though. Hurrah!
Lol. I'm not sure how John Sykes entered the conversation but I love him for breathing new life into Phil and helping him through one last tour before h took him. Sykes got shafted by Coverdale. Gibson did a run of his 78 Custom. Telephonecaster? I never heard it called that. Thanks for checking out the video. I appreciate your time and comment. I hope you and your family have a great new year! Mark
@@8MinuteAxe Many thanks, Mark. I wish you and yours the same. Hihi, i just think its fun to write Telephonecaster after Gibson. people think of the Fender Telecaster. So its a double error and peole get very upset. Its fun sometimes. John Sykes indeed did good work in the very end with Thin Lizzy, and he wrote and co-wrote 9 of 11 on WS 1987. Defacto making Whitesnake HUUUUGE in the US (and Europe) and David C a very rich man. Kind regards from Stockholm, Sweden. Subbed!
I bought a Harley Benton B stock tenor guitar it only had a small scratch on it that I was able to polish out . Absolutely astounding guitar for the price.
Could NOT believe the sounds coming out of my earphones.. Far better than I expected, so it really is that good or you are a guitar wizard of rank and magnitude heretofore unknown in human history. Great song selection, as always, Mark.
Lol. Give all the credit to the guitar. I recorded it with a $50 mic, no post, all first takes. I wanted the guitar to shine. As always, the support is much appreciated. Mark
Your lead in song was Emerson Lake and Palmer. Haven't heard it in years and I didn't recognize the title you put up so.... I guessed. Dang, what a great tune from the past. Thanks !
You're one of the better players on the internet. Glad I found your channel.
Hey Rick. RUclips is the great humbler. There are 8 year old kids all around the world that play better than I'll ever play. That's actually a good thing though. It makes me stay in my lane and focus on what I do well: teach and play the 12-string. I'm not sure how many of my videos you've seen but I do a lot of stuff on the 12-string. I uploaded this yesterday if you're interested. 25 Classic 12-String Songs from the 60s ruclips.net/video/M0ncR5fCSEA/видео.html&ab_channel=8MinuteAxe. Either way, thanks for watching this one. I appreciate your time and your kind words. Have a great day and take care. Mark
I had this guitar and it was the best acoustic I've ever owned, and it too was flawless. Around $180 bucks shipped when I got it about 6 years ago. I love your selection of songs to demo it....well done.
This truly is the age of budget guitars, compared to the cheap guitars of the 90s when I was a kid that were actually cheap, that's not the case anymore. Wow solid mahogany. Gonna be a lot of happy boys and girls this year come Xmas time I bet.
I do not NEED another guitar, but you are causing me to WANT another guitar. You can never have too many guitars, right? I am a woodworker and a guitar player (probably a better woodworker), and I know how beautiful mahogany can be. The sound is fantastic, and I loved your song choices.
You weren’t kidding Mark!
It really does sound fantastic, especially with finger style!
Great playing!
Had mine a couple of weeks and I love it. Never been a great aucostic player, but this guitar has helped my playing greatly.
Hello. Did it come with open machinery?
Thanks for this Mark. I started looking at HB guitars recently because I want to be have a nylon string sound without investing a lot of money into an instrument. I'm amazed at their prices. And from videos where they are featured they sound much more than half decent.
That is an incredibly great sounding guitar for ~$250 ! Really enjoyed your playing, Mark!
Keeping us guitar geeks up to date. Thanks
Sounds pretty good. I didn’t think I was in the market, but might be a buyer. I recognized most of those riffs but couldn’t remember some names. Would be cool to see a list.
Aren't HB guitars made in Indonesia? If so, not surprised at the quality of that guitar as there are some fantastic luthiers here (I live in Indonesia) making solid wood guitars that would be considered very affordable in the West. Even so, the value on that guitar is outstanding. The tone is reminiscent of my Martin DJr in solid sapele wood (which has tonal characteristics similar to mahogany).
made in China for Thomann
It was nice to hear someone actually play a few songs rather than just noodling around.
Another great video, filled with facts and terrific playing!
A solid crisp sound, and well played mate.
It sounds great, not only for the price but in general! Might need to get one myself!
Hey Sebas. It's fantastic. I hope they come out with a solid wood spruce top too. Then I can sell a couple more expensive guitars. :)
I asked them for an allsolid CLA 16S (spruce top), but they answered that there are no plans of making them, too bad😢
unbelievable deal. I just ordered one. They are still $244 US.
Hey Stan. Sorry I didnt put the link in the description yet as promised. It looks like you had no trouble finding it. Thanks. Mark
How is it? I'm seriously considering this one.
I own the CLD-15 MCE VS. Same specs pretty much. Love it.
Nice demo...love From The Beginning, gotta learn that sometime 👍🏻
Great information, Mark! (and as always really good guitar chops) My 25 year old Taylor is mahogany and love the way it rings with crisp clear sound. This HB looks and sounds great - another guitar makes my GAS (Guitar Acquisition Syndrome) list, sigh.
Love the dark colors and it sounds great.
My biggest question is this. Is your wife alright? 😂
Seriously, how does HB do it. Great build and excellent sound for $244. Amazing!
Nice guitar...shame about the 43mm nut. But, as you said, it has the 000-15M specs.
Hey Lowell, do you like a wider fingerboard. For years I only liked Taylor necks on acoustics but since I started playing fingerstyle seriously I'm searching for the best fit. Thanks so much for checking it out. Take care and enjoy your Sunday. Mark
@@8MinuteAxe The Harley Benton CLG 48 CE Wide has a 48 mm (1 7/8") nut. It is a solid spruce over layered walnut Taylor tribute.
@@8MinuteAxe Thanks, Mark. Yeah, I've gotten to where I only buy 1-3/4", and hopefully 2-3/8" string spacing at the bridge. I have big fingers...and I'm lazy. The other Martin 15 (with the slotted headstock), for example....
Great sound
Couldn't believe mine either..still don't. Amazing little rig. Nice review..thx.
Interesting guitar. Nice sound.
I own a HB CLA15M myself and it's really a bang for your bucks... As an extra feature I use a DeArmond toneboss soundhole pickup...
The ELP intro show you are a REAL Music lover!
I have been looking at the Harley Benton’s so far I am impressed I would like to see a video on their 12 string
It's been added to my Guitar Acquisition Syndrome treatment regimen. Thanks, Mark . . . I think . . . 🖖🖖🖖
another great video! Tks 🤠
Honey, where is Billy’s piggy bank? I gotta get a new guitar. Guess I’ll be searching the couch for coins again.
There has to be some catch. The sound, material and price are simply incongruent on every logical level I've developed since starting this hobby.
Well articulated Aaron. Currently the guitar is making the rounds of my guitar player buddies who all share your sentiments. I simply reported the info with the facts I had at hand. Solid wood: well, unless they can match sap and every wood grain in both directions, it's solid wood. It may not be the best cut, but I know solid wood. Playability is average. It has a slightly cheapest feel. How about this; yamaha 611 sold for $575 up until last year. 1/4 flame maple cap, two Seymours (p90 and classic hum) grover locking tuners (the high end ones), wilkenson bridge, tusq nut, stainless frets, maple neck with rosewood fingerboard. Retail on pickups, bridge, nut, tuners about $400. How about Orangewood. Solid wood with Torrefied spruce $450. Distributed out of California. My doubleneck HB $400. It's unbelievable. 20 years ago any solid wood guitar was gonna cost you $1500. My long-winded way of saying, I know brother. I agree. But I promise everything I stated in the video is accurate. Thanks for checking it out and thanks for weighing in please take care and be well mark
It's not mahogany; that's the catch. It's Okoume.
Hey Mark! Just stopping by to check out your latest uploads after a while!
Harley Benton has taken the music RUclips scene by storm, they really do make affordable workhorse guitars! And not just guitars, but other instruments too. I, too, have been thinking long and hard about getting myself a Harley Benton Jazz Bass for Christmas, mainly 2 reasons:
1) it would be a great opportunity to learn something new and expand my horizons, becoming a better musician in the process
2) Those 1965-1969 Beatles basslines aren't going to learn themselves (lol)
Hope all is well with you! We'll keep in touch! Take care bro! And keep up the quality videos, cuz they get better every time I tune in!!
I bought this guitar one year ago and it's really a good guitar, probably better than some at 500/600$. Even my luthier was impressed by the quality, the easy to play and the value for money of this guitar. A lot of guitarists have an a priori on this brand, but after hearing it they all say to me: "Wow great sound !". I play on it more than on my Takamine EN10C :)
Hey Dennis. That's awesome. I really appreciate you letting me know. I have close to 40 guitars and my three go tos right now are: affinity strat ($229), epiphone SG ($450 it's the one that sells new for around 900) and the enya go carbon fiber ($240). I have an 88 les paul, a 98 tele, a prs custom and none of them play as well. Have a great weekend and take care mark
@@8MinuteAxe Hey, I have also had this guitar for a awhile now (purchased after watching your video, thanks). Love it. I have been playing as it came out of the box; would like to lower the action slightly and put on new strings. Do you have strings you would recommend?
hot damn i have a 1995 takamine EN10C, i bought it years ago off a musician who wanted 500 euros for it, i was like done, didnt even haggle with him, i knew it was a good guitar, i knew another musican years ago that played live with one and the sound of it was gorgeous, anyway i asked the guy that was selling his 3 times are you sure you want to sell it? and he said yes, 2 hours later hes on the phone to me asking for it back because his gf blew up at him for selling it, i was like dude, i asked you 3 times, i didnt even haggle with you i gave you the 500 that you wanted in cash, im sorry but ive been after one of these for a long time and im not letting it go now
@@Doug23would you able to tell me if the logo on the headstock is a sticker or an inlay? I don't like it so my question is if it would be easy to remove, sand off?
Great video. It would be fantastic if you could get your hands on a Martin 000 15M and do a side by side comparison. I own 2 HB acoustics, a CLP-15M parlor and a CLG 48 CE. They both play way above their less-than-$250 price. Both of mine arrived here in Texas within 5 days of purchase, so I assume that Thomann warehouses their US stock here in the states. That relieves shipping delay worries.
Beautiful guitar, beautiful playing (hearing “Beginnings” by Chgo was especially a great kick in the head!), beautiful playing, unbelievable price!
Great player Sir, great sounding guitar on my short list... Tnx Uncle Hans T.
I have the CLG-14SE was more money but damn it is a beast. Think I paid $400 and change. Better than some in the $1500 range.
Looks and sounds good but I prefer electric to acoustic guitars.
Loved your Beginnings by Chicago! :)
So I asked Thomann about the timber used and they said it's solid okoume. Now I'm definitely no wood expert, but the characteristics of okoume are nothing like mahogany. Also it's quite a soft wood (for a hard wood). Very curious how it will hold up in the future. But for the price it's a bargain and it sounds good too!
I talked to Bene and he says it's solid mahogany as stated on the website. A very brief Google search yielded three sites that claim that its near impossible to distinguish between the two woods...so I googled the woods as they apply to guitar. According to one site Okoume is better (fuller, rounder, and fatter). The other says it's softer and ages better. I've been playing professionally for 30 years and I honestly couldn't tell the difference between woods that are very dissimilar, let alone these. The way a guitars wood responds is definitely not my wheelhouse. Sitka is obviously sharper and brighter than mahogany buy that's all I can tell. Funny story. I was on a blog that was talking about the Taylor 150E and how they changed the wood for the back and sides from sapele to walnut and people were going crazy talking about the nuances and how different things were. Bob Taylor got on there and said that he can't tell a d*** difference And that the reason for the change was purely esthetic. I don't know if these people are cork sniffers or delusional but none of my playing makes me an expert. Mark
@@8MinuteAxe I had the solid top version of this and it did sound a bit 'warmer' than my Eastman e1d with Sitka top. It was a very well constructed guitar and the sound was great. Playability too. I think that's what it's all about in the end. I sold it to a friend for a small amount because he was immediately connected to it. Contemplating if I should go for this all solid version now 😅
Maybe you change hour mind if you play with "Delta Blues Mjce" 😉 good video
Hey Xavy. Thanks for the tip. I had never heard of that one. Definitely gonna give it a try! Thanks so much for checking out the video. I really appreciate your time and comment. Have a great weekend and take care. Mark
Great demo Mark, that sounded awesome man 😀🤘🎵🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Nice review. Is it equipped with a truss rod? The website doesn't specify.
Hey Floyd. For sure. I purchased the guitar as a kick around but over the course of two weeks it's now my #1 fingerstyle guitar. It came perfectly set up but now that's it's my #1 I swapped out the bone for Tusq and added just a bit of relief. It's perfect now. Thanks so much for checking it out. I appreciate it. Mark
Wow that sounds fantastic! Excellent playing too Mark!
Still looking for a 12 string at the moment. Curious if you've come across Luna Guitars.
Looking at a 12 on American Musical Supply and thinking of buying it for $219
Good review...thanks for posting
Great video, glad to know that Thoman is doing right for the acoustic players! BTW, is your wife ok?
okoume or shmokoume, it really sounds like a hog guitar. has that scoop and warm pleasant sweetness on the top. I was eyeing sigma s000m-15 but this got my attention
My question is one year later, can we have a review now
Fudge. In fairness, I let one of my students borrow it right after this video and I haven't gotten it back. Not to change the subject but if you're looking for bang for your buck, check out Sire. I don't do ANY paid reviews nor do I accept endorsements. I bought a Sire LP and I'm blown away by it. They have a couple of auditorium acoustics that I bet are amazing and they just introduced a new line of nylon string and jazz guitars. I really appreciate you checking out the video and I apologize for not following up like I said I would. I am grateful for your time and I hope you have a great week. -Mark
Your guitar playing sounds great, man! :)
Hey Mark. I'm on the hunt for a 12 string acoustic that doesn't have electrics in it. I bought a HyVibe aftermarket kit a while back but I'm having trouble locating a quality unit to donate the kit into. Cheaper may be better in this case as I've never heard a HV (made by LAG) in a 12er. Even LAG don't make one.
The one requirement is the instrument has to be cross braced to fit the actuators. May have to go for a used Guild or something, but would rather new. Do Taka make a plain acoustic 12?
What strings do you recommend for this guitar? Harley Benton CLA-15M Solid Wood guitar.
I bought this guitar and I'm happy with it . Only thing that bothers me is the action . I think it's pretty high action do you think I should lower it or leave it be ?
If you're gonna lower the action, first see if you have any relief in the neck. You may be able to get where you want to be with a couple of quarter turns to the right (clockwise). If the neck is already straight maybe reach out to Thomann as ask if they have any shims under the saddle (sometimes manufacturers will put a couple of shims in there. If so, take one out and see. The last option is sanding the saddle. If you're gonna do that I would buy a couple of bone saddles on Amazon and see if you can get it right. Just remember that if you're gonna sand the saddle, slowly and evenly is key. Let me know how you make.out markaranalli@gmail.com. good luck! Mark
Really sounds good. nice spec's. Love that Harley Benton. Oh yea, is your wife ok? $2000 is a lot to swallow.
Wow..great guitar!! Sounds amazing!!
Hello great video I would like to buy a first Harley benton guitar the one in the video is entirely solid wood and have you tried the HB CLD 15 MCE solid wood which must be great and looks like the SIGMA DM15E Thank you for the video
You are right as usual. This guitar sounds great!
Hey Vlad. I'm actually playing it right now. Says something about it considering I have a lot of guitars to choose from. Thanks so much for checking out the video. Have a great weekend. Mark
@@8MinuteAxe Thanks! I like visiting your channel. It is always fun to watch you playing, to watch how a Master can make even a toothbrush sing. There are variations of this guitar with cut out. I wonder if they sound similar.
But can you play Child in Time on it?
I can play it on my $254 Squier. 😉
Hello, I watched your demonstration with interest. but I have a question about the guitar behind you on the wall with a clear stripe on the top. can you tell me what the brand (taylor i guess) and model is ?
I Have this guitar and it's awesome!
I have been looking at 12 strings also I wonder how the HB 12 string plays and sounds
Deadpan: "After performing CPR on my wife..." 😆🤣
Haha, I know what you mean about the CPR on the wife. 😂 I’m in the same boat!
How is it out of the box? High action? Did you have to make adjustments?
Would love to have this with a pick up, do you happen to know the closest match?
Hi, do you think that 45 mm nut can be fitted to have more space between the strings
Impressive!
i love my $3000 Taylor, but the sound difference is not 10 times better than HB. (not this model, just sayin that their guitars are on par with the major brands for a fraction of the price)
Too bad they just have the small mahogany types, and not the larger dreadnaughts or spruce tops.
For sure! A solid wood auditorium wirh a spruce top for $300 or so would be amazing. Thanks for checking it out. I really appreciate it. Mark
Do you by any chance know how to play the bass?
Hey Javier. I do. I play bass in several videos, on all of my cover songs, and currently 4 of my students are bass students. Are you primarily a bass player? If you're looking for a recommendation for a good bass, you can never go wrong with Squier. For just a little bit more you can a Sterling by Music Man. If you need help with something, email me at markaranalli@gmail.com. Have a great day. Mark
@@8MinuteAxe I don’t have a bass but maybe in the future I would be interested buying one. For now when I make covers I use the bass in garage band.
How does it play compared to the Martin 000 15?
Hey Doug. I haven't played the 00015 I'm years but I've played plenty of Martin's and there's no doubt the martin feels better (the fingerboard is the most noticible) but I would say that this is more than just a. It's not bad for $200 actually a quality guitar. Thanks so much for checking out the video. I appreciate your time and comment. take care and be well. mark.
@@8MinuteAxe I just purchased this guitar. Wow, love it. Thanks for the review.
Worth a try at that price. #9
Dangit…. Wife is gonna kill me 😂
Awesome
Are you on the HB payroll?
LOL. I don't do any paid endorsements. Everything on my channel is done freely for free and given away. As a matter of fact, Thomann (makers of HB) reached out to me a couple of years ago and asked if I'd like to try a few guitars. I said, sure, send me x, y, and z and I'll try them out and either send them back or give them away. As fate would have it, the next 3 or 4 weeks were some of the worst stats I've had on my channel. They ghosted me. I literally emailed them 15 times and they wouldn't even give me the courtesy of a we are no longer interested. It sucks because the guy I was dealing with has a reputation for being a really nice guy. Anyway, this is a nice guitar for the money. I really appreciate your time. Mark
@@8MinuteAxe Thanks for the reply!
yeeha! a new 8 min axe vid.
I was ready to upload this last week and it was down to the wire so I opted for taking a week off
No more Mahogany bodies
You certainly play a mean guitar.
I don't think this is a solid wood guitar, only the top is made of solid Gabon mahogany. I never heard of Gabon mahogany and found out it is not a "true" mahogany but looks like African mahogany. From the Thomann site "The Harley Benton Custom Line CLA-15M is constructed entirely of Gabon mahogany and also features a solid wood top." Nothing about the guitar having solid back and sides. I hope that if you find out what I believe is true that you revise or correct your video as you are advising people they can buy an all-solid wood guitar at that price. Again, show me the link that says this guitar has solid back and sides.
You're looking at the wrong guitar dude
www.thomannmusic.com/harley_benton_cla_15m_solidwood.htm
#1 It doesnt say Gabon mahogany anywhere in the description. It says 100% solid mahogany top, back and sides. #2 I've been playing for almost 40 years, I know what laminate looks like. #3 next time, before you go out of your way to discredit or accuse somebody, check your facts, You could have even checked the 15 other videos about the guitar, including reviews from channels much larger than mine all talking about what an amazing deal it is for a SOLID WOOD guitar.
@@8MinuteAxe You are right. I looked at another site. I apologize. I searched for Harley Benton CLA-15M .. but not the solid wood version. I agree with you as that is an amazing deal for an all-solid wood guitar. And you are also right that it says mahogany and not Gabon mahogany as in the version with laminated back and sides. Thank you for providing me the link as obviously I found a similar ... but totally wrong .. link for the guitar.
Louis. I never reply with attitude. You caught me off guard early in the morning. It's no excuse for my tone but I do apologize. Mark
@@8MinuteAxe As I said I was completely wrong. You do not need to apologize as I again assure you it was my honest mistake ... a lazy mistake ... but I never meant in any way to deride your post. Strangely enough I have been looking for just that type of guitar and until your video review I did not know it existed at that price point. So thank you.
What kind of child slavery was involved for this guitar to be that price. 💀
John Sykes would never play like that. He has a real electric guitar. Yesä a 1978 Gibson Telephonecaster Custom. The Harley Benton guitar sounded very good though. Hurrah!
Lol. I'm not sure how John Sykes entered the conversation but I love him for breathing new life into Phil and helping him through one last tour before h took him. Sykes got shafted by Coverdale. Gibson did a run of his 78 Custom. Telephonecaster? I never heard it called that. Thanks for checking out the video. I appreciate your time and comment. I hope you and your family have a great new year! Mark
@@8MinuteAxe Many thanks, Mark. I wish you and yours the same. Hihi, i just think its fun to write Telephonecaster after Gibson. people think of the Fender Telecaster. So its a double error and peole get very upset. Its fun sometimes. John Sykes indeed did good work in the very end with Thin Lizzy, and he wrote and co-wrote 9 of 11 on WS 1987. Defacto making Whitesnake HUUUUGE in the US (and Europe) and David C a very rich man. Kind regards from Stockholm, Sweden. Subbed!