Best Harley Benton Bass Guitar Sets 2026
Alright, let's talk Harley Benton bass sets. You're probably thinking, 'another budget brand, right?' But HB's been quietly shaking things up, offering surprisingly playable and decent-sounding basses for the price. These sets are a great starting point, or a solid backup for the gigging musician who doesn't want to risk their prized instrument, but knowing what to look for is key.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best bass guitar sets in 2026 are Harley Benton JB-75MN SB Vintage Seri Bundle (top pick), Harley Benton JB-75MN SB Vintage Seri Bundle for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton Enhanced MP-5MN Natural Set for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $229–$493, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
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3.9/5
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Harley Benton JB-75MN SB Vintage Seri Bundle
Complete Setup
Starter Package
First Bass Guitar
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton JB-75MN is a fantastic entry point into the vintage P-bass vibe. The ash body and Roswell pickups deliver a surprisingly warm and punchy tone, perfect for rock, blues, and Motown. It’s a seriously capable instrument for the price, especially appealing to beginners or players wanting a classic sound without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • American ash body delivers a resonant, balanced tone.
- • Roswell pickups provide a surprisingly articulate and punchy vintage growl.
- • Canadian Hard Rock Maple neck offers comfortable playability and stability.
- • 305mm radius fretboard is forgiving and easy on the fretting hand.
CONS
- • Hardware, while functional, feels budget-oriented and might benefit from upgrades.
- • Bolt-on neck construction lacks the sustain of a set-neck design.
- • Ash bodies can be prone to finish checking with age and temperature fluctuations.
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Art. 351699
$406
#2
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3.8/5
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Harley Benton JB-75MN SB Vintage Seri Bundle
Budget-Conscious
Gift Purchase
Complete Setup
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton JB-75MN is a seriously impressive offering for the price. It nails that classic P-Bass vibe with a surprisingly good feel and solid construction – a great option for players wanting vintage tones and playability without the premium price tag. It’s perfect for rock, blues, and classic country where a warm, punchy low-end is key.
PROS
- • American ash body delivers a resonant, punchy low-end tone.
- • Roswell pickups provide surprisingly articulate and vintage-voiced tones.
- • Canadian Hard Rock Maple neck offers a comfortable 'D' profile feel.
- • Solid hardware like Sung Il bridge and HB machine heads enhance tuning stability.
CONS
- • Ash body may make it slightly heavier than some players prefer.
- • Rosewood fretboard can be prone to drying out if not properly cared for.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to basses with active electronics.
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Art. 351698
$351
#3
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3.8/5
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8/10
Harley Benton Enhanced MP-5MN Natural Set
Gift Purchase
Complete Setup
Starter Package
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton MP-5MN is a seriously impressive package for the price. The swamp ash body gives it a really nice resonance, and the Roswell pickups deliver a surprisingly modern and articulate tone. It’s a great option for players wanting a 5-string with a modern feel and active EQ, particularly suited to rock, funk, and modern pop basslines.
PROS
- • Swamp ash body delivers a resonant, balanced tone with excellent sustain.
- • Roswell pickups offer a surprisingly articulate and punchy sound profile.
- • 6-bolt neck construction enhances stability and improves neck feel.
- • Active/passive EQ provides tonal flexibility and a wide range of sounds.
CONS
- • Swamp ash body may result in a slightly heavier instrument for extended playing.
- • Stainless steel frets might require a quicker break-in period for some players.
- • While versatile, the pickup configuration leans towards modern rock/funk rather than vintage tones.
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3.8/5
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Art. 570680
$494
#4
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Harley Benton B-550FL BK Progressive Bundle
Starter Package
First Bass Guitar
Budget-Conscious
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton B-550FL Progressive bundle is a fantastic entry point into fretless bass playing. The long scale provides a solid low-end response, while the included amp offers surprisingly good tone for its size. It's perfect for beginner to intermediate players looking for a complete, budget-friendly package with a unique feel.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a warm, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Black walnut fingerboard offers a unique feel and slightly warmer tone than rosewood.
- • Progressive Series hardware (die-cast tuners) improves tuning stability and overall feel.
- • HB-40B amp's TEC circuit convincingly emulates tube amp warmth and character.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits high-end sustain compared to set-neck designs.
- • Black walnut fingerboard can be prone to drying and cracking if not properly humidified.
- • The push/pull active/passive function might introduce a slight tonal shift.
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3.8/5
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Art. 539276
$369
#5
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3.8/5
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Harley Benton Enhanced MJ-4EB Lake Bl Set
Budget-Conscious
Complete Setup
Starter Package
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton MJ-4EB is a seriously impressive bass for the money. It's a modern take on a classic JB style, with a comfortable neck and a surprisingly wide range of tones thanks to the Roswell pickups and active EQ. Ideal for players wanting a versatile, well-built bass without the premium price tag, especially those exploring funk, rock, and modern styles.
PROS
- • Canadian Hard Rock maple neck provides excellent stability and a smooth feel.
- • Roswell pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and punchy, versatile tone.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a fast, slick playing surface and rich upper harmonics.
- • WSC hardware is generally reliable and a significant step up from budget alternatives.
CONS
- • Alder body, while resonant, might be a bit lightweight for some players’ preference.
- • Finish, while attractive, may exhibit minor cosmetic imperfections common at this price point.
- • Active EQ adds versatility but introduces potential battery dependency and noise.
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3.8/5
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9/10
Art. 570678
$439
#6
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3.7/5
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Harley Benton JB-75MN NA Vint. Series Pack
First Bass Guitar
Beginners
Starter Package
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton JB-75MN is a seriously impressive value. It nails that classic P-bass tone, feels surprisingly well-built, and the vintage-inspired aesthetics are spot-on. It's perfect for beginners or seasoned players wanting an affordable workhorse for rock, blues, or Motown.
PROS
- • American ash body delivers resonant, balanced tone with good sustain
- • Canadian Hard Rock maple neck offers stability and comfortable, familiar profile
- • Roswell JBA pickups provide authentic P-bass growl with surprising clarity
- • Sung Il bridge with brass saddles enhances sustain and tuning stability
CONS
- • High-gloss finish may feel plasticky to some; a satin option would be preferable
- • Rosewood fretboard is a bit of a missed opportunity for a 'vintage' vibe
- • Neck profile, while comfortable, might be too thin for players with larger hands
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3.7/5
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9/10
Art. 544100
$307
#7
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3.7/5
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Harley Benton PJ-5 SBK Deluxe Series Bundle
First Bass Guitar
Complete Setup
Gift Purchase
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton PJ-5 bundle is a seriously impressive value. The PJ pickup combination gives you a huge range of sounds, and the little HB-20B amp is a great starting point. It's perfect for beginner to intermediate players looking for a versatile 5-string bass setup without spending a fortune.
PROS
- • Solid poplar body provides a surprisingly resonant and warm low-end response.
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers snappy attack and comfortable, modern 'C' profile.
- • PJ pickup configuration delivers versatile tones from growly funk to punchy rock.
- • The included HB-20B amp is surprisingly decent for practice and small gigs.
CONS
- • Roseacer fingerboard may feel a bit dry; consider oiling for improved playability.
- • Hardware, while functional, is basic and might benefit from a future upgrade.
- • 864mm scale length might feel slightly long for players with smaller hands.
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3.7/5
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9/10
Art. 546589
$270
#8
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Harley Benton PJ-4 SBK Deluxe Series Bundle
Complete Setup
Gift Purchase
Starter Package
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton PJ-4 bundle is a fantastic entry point for beginners or players seeking a versatile, affordable bass setup. The PJ pickup combination offers a surprising amount of tonal flexibility, and the HB-20B amp provides a decent starting point for practice and small gigs. It’s a solid package for anyone wanting a modern, playable bass without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Poplar body offers a balanced, resonant tone with surprising sustain.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides snappy response and comfortable, familiar feel.
- • PJ pickup configuration delivers versatility – from smooth P-bass warmth to J-bass bite.
- • HB-20B amp's TEC circuit emulates tube warmth, adding character to the sound.
CONS
- • Roseacer fingerboard might feel a bit 'chalky' compared to ebony or maple.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while comfortable, limits high-end sustain potential.
- • The included D'Addario EXL strings are decent, but an upgrade would enhance tone.
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3.7/5
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Art. 546581
$260
#9
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3.7/5
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Harley Benton MB-5 SB Deluxe Series Bundle
Complete Setup
Starter Package
Beginners
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton bundle is a fantastic entry point for beginners or players needing a budget-friendly 5-string bass. The included amp is surprisingly capable for practice and smaller gigs, and the coil-split pickup adds a nice touch of versatility. It’s a solid package for someone wanting a playable, decent-sounding bass without a huge investment.
PROS
- • Solid poplar body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides comfortable access and snappy response.
- • Coil-split humbucker adds versatility – cleans to gritty rock tones.
- • HB-20B amp delivers decent power and surprisingly warm tube emulation.
CONS
- • Poplar body, while resonant, lacks the premium sustain of mahogany or ash.
- • Bolt-on neck joint might not appeal to players preferring set-neck feel.
- • Budget-friendly components mean some hardware feels a bit plasticky.
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3.7/5
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1/10
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9/10
Art. 540387
$272
#10
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3.7/5
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9/10
Harley Benton MV-4MSB Burgundy Mist Set
Complete Setup
Budget-Conscious
Starter Package
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton is a seriously impressive value. It nails that classic P-Bass vibe with a surprising amount of detail and warmth from the custom pickups. It's a fantastic choice for players wanting a vintage-inspired tone and comfortable feel without the premium price tag – perfect for rock, blues, and Motown.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Caramelized maple neck offers a smooth, fast feel and improved high-end response.
- • Custom-wound VJB/VPB pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and warm vintage-inspired sound.
- • Sung Il bridge with brass saddles enhances sustain and adds a touch of vintage character.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the resonance of a set-neck design.
- • Soft 'D' neck profile may not suit players preferring a flatter or more modern feel.
- • Burgundy Mist finish, while striking, may show fingerprints and minor blemishes more readily.
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3.7/5
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9/10
Art. 597119
$367
#11
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3.7/5
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Harley Benton PB-50 FR Vintage Series Set
Gift Purchase
Complete Setup
Starter Package
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton set is a fantastic entry point for players chasing that classic Precision Bass vibe. The combo amp is a bonus, offering a decent starting point for amplification, though it's not a high-end studio solution. It's perfect for beginners, gigging musicians on a tight budget, or anyone wanting a reliable, vintage-voiced bass without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers a warm, resonant tone ideal for vintage-inspired sounds.
- • Roswell VTN4 pickups provide a surprisingly authentic, punchy Precision Bass character.
- • The 40W combo amp offers a decent range of tones and a useful integrated compressor.
- • Bolt-on maple neck ensures comfortable playability and consistent action across the fretboard.
CONS
- • Basswood can lack the sustain of more premium tonewoods like Ash or Mahogany.
- • The amp's TEC circuit is a gimmick; don't expect true tube amp warmth.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while playable, lacks the premium feel of a set neck.
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3.7/5
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1/10
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10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 561001
$290
#12
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3.7/5
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1/10
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10/10
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9/10
Harley Benton PB-50 LH SB Vintage Ser Set
Complete Setup
Starter Package
Budget-Conscious
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton PB-50 LH set is a fantastic entry point for left-handed bassists craving a classic P-Bass vibe. The amp is perfectly adequate for bedroom practice, and the overall package delivers a surprising amount of quality for the price. Ideal for beginners or players on a tight budget wanting that vintage Precision Bass feel.
PROS
- • Vintage-style P-Bass tone, surprisingly warm and articulate for the price.
- • Roswell VTN4 pickups offer a classic, punchy sound with good clarity.
- • The included 40W combo amp provides a decent starting point for practice.
- • Left-hand specific model caters to a niche often overlooked by budget brands.
CONS
- • Basswood body can lack sustain and resonance compared to more premium woods.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, doesn't offer the same feel as set necks.
- • The TEC circuit in the amp is a gimmick; it won't fool a tube amp.
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Art. 560998
$290
#13
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3.7/5
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1/10
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9/10
Harley Benton PB-50 LH FR Vintage Ser Set
First Bass Guitar
Gift Purchase
Budget-Conscious
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton PB-50 LH FR is a surprisingly capable left-hand bass and amp combo. It nails the classic P-bass vibe with a solid low-end and a decent, if not spectacular, practice amp. This is a fantastic entry point for beginners or a budget-friendly option for players wanting a vintage-inspired tone.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers a warm, resonant low-end foundation.
- • Roswell VTN4 pickups capture a classic Precision Bass tone.
- • Canadian maple neck offers a comfortable, stable playing experience.
- • 40W amp provides ample volume and surprisingly good clean tones.
CONS
- • Basswood can lack upper-midrange definition for some players.
- • The TEC circuit is a gimmick; don't expect true tube warmth.
- • Finish quality is adequate but not premium; expect minor blemishes.
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3.7/5
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1/10
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10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 560986
$290
#14
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Harley Benton PB-50 SB Vintage Series Set
First Bass Guitar
Starter Package
Complete Setup
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton set is a seriously impressive package for the price. The PB-50 bass nails that classic P-Bass vibe, and the HB-40B amp is a surprisingly capable practice amp. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a vintage-inspired bass setup without spending a fortune.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers a warm, punchy low-end response.
- • Roswell VTN4 pickup provides authentic vintage Precision Bass tone.
- • HB-40B amp offers surprisingly good clean and driven tones.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides a comfortable, familiar feel for many players.
CONS
- • Basswood can be a bit 'woody' – lacks the sustain of mahogany.
- • The TEC circuit is a novelty; don’t expect true tube amp magic.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits high-end sustain and complexity.
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3.7/5
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1/10
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9/10
Art. 560983
$290
#15
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Harley Benton PB-20 BK Standard Series Pack
Gift Purchase
Beginners
Budget-Conscious
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton pack is a fantastic entry point for beginners or players on a tight budget seeking a classic Precision Bass tone. The included amp is surprisingly capable for practice and small gigs, and the overall package delivers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s perfect for rock, blues, and Motown styles.
PROS
- • Poplar body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- • Maple neck with a modern 'C' profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
- • The PB-Style pickup delivers a thick, punchy tone ideal for classic rock and Motown.
- • The HB-20B amp's TEC circuit adds a pleasing warmth and tube-like saturation at higher volumes.
CONS
- • Laurel fretboard, while decent, lacks the premium feel and durability of rosewood or ebony.
- • Single pickup limits versatility; more complex tones require additional modifications.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, doesn't offer the sustain of a set-neck design.
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3.7/5
AudioFu Score
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1/10
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10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 544101
$230
How to Choose the Best Bass Guitar Sets
1
Value
Let's be clear, you're getting a lot of bass for your money. The price point is the biggest draw, and they genuinely deliver a usable instrument at that level. It's not a boutique, but it's far from a total compromise.
2
Neck Profile & Playability
Harley Benton's necks are surprisingly good. You'll find a range of profiles, from slim C to thicker D shapes. The action is often a bit high out of the box, requiring a little setup, but the wood itself feels solid and the neck joint is generally well done.
3
Pickup Voicing
The pickups are where the budget shows a little more. They're generally punchy and usable, but lack the nuance and complexity of higher-end pickups. Expect a fairly flat EQ, leaning towards a mid-focused tone - good for cutting through, but lacking that deep, growling low-end you might want for serious funk.
4
Hardware Quality
The hardware is functional, but not luxurious. The tuners are adequate for basic stability, but might need replacing if you're a heavy-handed player who tunes frequently. The bridges are typically solid enough, but don't expect super-precise intonation adjustments.
5
Body Wood & Resonance
Different models use different woods (alder, mahogany, basswood). Alder tends to offer a more balanced tone, while mahogany gives a warmer, woodier character. Basswood is often the lightest, but can feel a bit 'dead' without a good amp to drive it.
Buying Guide
These sets are fantastic for the budget-conscious, but manage expectations. The electronics are the first upgrade I'd recommend if you're serious about tone. Don't expect perfect intonation straight out of the box; a proper setup is essential. And remember, a cheap bass still needs good strings - don't skimp there.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page ranks 15 bass guitar sets from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category.
Position is computed, not curated. Four signals, in order of weight: how completely the manufacturer documents the instrument (number of published specifications), where it sits in the price range, how specific the model designation is — which filters out generic accessories — and whether a product image exists. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
They're surprisingly good for the price. Don't expect boutique quality, but they're far more playable and sound better than many basses in the same price range. They're a great value, especially for beginners or gigging musicians needing a backup.
They're versatile enough for most genres. The mid-focused tone works well for rock, pop, and even some funk. For heavier styles, you'll likely want to upgrade the pickups to add more low-end thump and clarity.
Absolutely. The action is often a bit high, and intonation might be off. A professional setup will dramatically improve playability and make a huge difference in the overall feel and sound.
The main differences lie in the body wood, pickup voicing, and neck profile. Research the specific models - watch YouTube reviews and read forums - to find one that matches your tonal preferences and playing style.
Definitely. The electronics are easily accessible, and upgrading the pickups is the single biggest improvement you can make to the tone. It's a common and relatively straightforward mod.
