So I've been back and forth and back and forth with the "experts" at Thomann about the problems with this particular RB 414 CS. First a disclaimer. I have not at any time asked for or hinted that I want either a replacement or a refund.
Thomann asked for and I provided both video and still photographs of the screwed up 3-way switch and the bridge pickup at it's max height still 33/64 from the bottom of the E string.
FWIW I was able to sus out the neck pickup height problem on my own (bits of plastic wedging and keeping it from moving) and get it to the recommended 5/32.
After viewing the video I sent them they agreed to send me a new 3-way switch. Great said I.
That only leaves one item left. The bridge pickup. After going round and round the expert answer is put a 1/4 in. block of paper under the pickup. No kidding. Just so you think I'm not making this up I'm doing a copy & paste of our last exchange:
"> I'm just following up on my concerns regarding the bridge pickup problem I have with this Harley Benton RB 414 CS. As noted previously and photos sent in, the closest I can get the bridge pickup to the bottom of the thickest (E) string is 33/64 of an inch. Most places, including your own recommendations is that it should be about 5/32 of an inch. The bridge is already within 1/64 from it's lowest possible setting, On the deck is the expression and the output from the pickup at 33/64 is negligible.
> I've not heard from your experts as of yet. Hence the follow up.".
Now the Thomann "Expert" response:
"Thomann
Apr 27, 2020, 9:33 AM (1 day ago)
to me
Hello,
Thank you for your email
Our experts sent us some information on this pickup height adjustment.
There are 2 ways to try and adjust the pickup heights of this bass guitar.
The first one would be to match the output level of both pickups by adjusting their heights.
Sometimes the problem is that the screws are overturning and so you can´t get the bridge pickup high enough.
The experts' recommendation is to set the level of both pickups based on their output level and that means to move the neck pickup downwards a bit.
However. the pickup height is also limited by the cover and its construction. For instance, some users remove the cover and the rubber spacers of this pickup:
We can see that you removed the cover already though.
Another solution would be to cut out and place a paper/carton gasket underneath the metallic pickup frame.
Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at any time.
Kind regards .".
So there was no statement of anything like, Gee I'm sorry that never should have been shipped in that condition. So I'm left to think that ALL the RB 414 CS guitars are similarly fouled up in the bridge pickup.
It is for that reason that I cannot recommend the Harley Benton RB 414CS to anyone.
Why should anyone pay attention to me? Fair enough. My answer, I own 5 other Harley Benton bass guitars, along with Fenders (USAx2 & MIM) Ibanez Epiphones , Schecters and a Music Man. I've never had any other issue that a basic set up didn't cure on the Harley Bentons. This model is a GOOCH though. Don't spend your money on it Unless you have too much of it and want a reasonably expensive wall decoration.
Haven't found any need to alter it though.
