Harley Benton JB-75MN SB Vintage Series

OK so, let's take it from the top. Selection and ordering. This site is one of the best online retailers I have ever encountered. Everything is accounted for. The site is unbelievably intuitive and easy to navigate and supplies answers to questions I had before I even knew I had them. Placing the order could not have been easier and communication was great.

The package arrived earlier than stated and the container was in perfect condition. This was due to the shipper (UPS) and not so much a function of Thomann. I was a little surprised at how the packing was done, not as much "padding" as I would have thought but everything was in perfect condition. The bass was in immaculate condition. Not one nick, dent, scratch, or other imperfection. Removing it from the box my first reaction was, "Wow, this is heavy." It's listed at 5.15 kgs (one of the lighter in the series and the reason I chose this particular model.) But I don't know what the average bass weighs in at.

Not having the slightest bit of experience with a bass there is not much more I can say. I tuned it up but felt that it did not sound just right so I trekked on down to the local guitar shop for a setup. The tech picked up the bass and the first words he said were, "Wow, this is heavy." He made a few minor adjustments to the string height but otherwise said the instrument was in good shape.

When I got home I could notice the difference.

So now I am learning how to adjust the pickups and create different effects. I tune it up before every practice session and it stays very well tuned day to day. I'm taking an online course (which I can highly recommend from bassbuzz.com) and feeling more confident each day. The neck is smooth and easy to navigate.

I chose this particular bass as an entry level instrument. I had never heard of the Harley Benton name before but after doing some research and reading many positive reviews decided this was the best bang for the buck and I am not disappointed.

Because I am just starting out I didn't want to go all out and buy a speaker amp in case things didn't work out so I bought the Vox amPlug2 and it really works great.

So, from a Noob's perspective I have absolutely no complaints and I am thoroughly satisfied with the purchase. At the entry level my personal opinion is that you don't need to spend a lot of money on the instrument until you're sure you want to stick with it and this bass is very reasonably priced. I am enjoying the learning and playing experience very much and would highly recommend this bass for folks in the same position as me.

Really hopes this helps.