Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $55

Budget/Beginner

$100

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Harley Benton HBMA-50 Mandoline VS". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 7, 2026.

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Description

Unleash your inner bluegrass virtuoso with the Harley Benton HBMA-50 Mandoline VS, a classic A-style mandolin crafted to captivate both beginners and seasoned musicians. With a spruce top and basswood body, this mandolin offers a rich and resonant tone that’s as sweet as a summer breeze. The teak neck provides a smooth grip, making it easy to explore complex fingerings and swift transitions.

The Blackwood fretboard, adorned with dot inlays, hosts 20 frets, inviting you to explore a wide range of notes and melodies. Its 350 mm scale and 30 mm nut width ensure comfort and precision, perfect for players with varying hand sizes. The Blackwood bridge complements the instrument's aesthetic while ensuring consistent intonation.

Finished with cream binding and chrome hardware, the Harley Benton HBMA-50 Mandoline VS is both visually striking and built to last. Whether you're strumming away at a campground jam session or recording your next folk masterpiece, this mandolin is engineered to deliver a consistently delightful musical experience. Its high-quality construction makes it a standout choice for those seeking a reliable and expressive folk instrument.

Key Features:

  • Bluegrass series
  • A-style body shape
  • Spruce top with basswood body
  • Teak neck
  • Blackwood fretboard with 20 frets and dot inlays
  • 350 mm scale; 30 mm nut width
  • Blackwood bridge
  • Cream binding, chrome hardware

Product specs

Available since July 2012
Shape A-Style
Colour Sunburst
Body Basswood
Top Spruce
Neck Teak
Pickup System No
Incl. Case No
Incl. Gigbag No
Scale 350

FAQs

What type of music is the Harley Benton HBMA-50 Mandoline VS best suited for?

The Harley Benton HBMA-50 Mandoline VS, with its A-style body and spruce top, is versatile and well-suited for a variety of music genres, including bluegrass, folk, and traditional music. Its construction supports a bright and resonant sound ideal for ensemble playing.

Does the Harley Benton HBMA-50 Mandoline VS come with a pickup system?

No, the Harley Benton HBMA-50 Mandoline VS does not include a pickup system. It is designed as an acoustic instrument, so any amplification would require an external pickup or microphone.

What materials are used in the construction of the Harley Benton HBMA-50 Mandoline VS?

The Harley Benton HBMA-50 Mandoline VS features a basswood body, a spruce top, and a teak neck. These materials contribute to its balanced tone and durability, making it a reliable choice for both beginners and experienced players.

Is the Harley Benton HBMA-50 Mandoline VS suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Harley Benton HBMA-50 Mandoline VS is suitable for beginners. Its affordable price point and quality construction make it a great entry-level mandolin for those new to playing the instrument.

What is the scale length of the Harley Benton HBMA-50 Mandoline VS?

The scale length of the Harley Benton HBMA-50 Mandoline VS is 350 mm. This standard scale length for mandolins provides a comfortable playing experience and contributes to its traditional sound.

Marvin's Guitar Channel

Marvin's Guitar Channel

Is this cheap Mandolin any good? | Harley Benton HBMA-50 VS | Unboxing & Review

Video thumbnail for Is this cheap Mandolin any good? | Harley Benton HBMA-50 VS | Unboxing & Review by Marvin's Guitar Channel

Is this cheap Mandolin any good? | Harley Benton HBMA-50 VS | Unboxing & Review

Marvin's Guitar Channel

Marvin's Guitar Channel

Video thumbnail for Harley Benton HBMA-50 Mandoline VS - Cheap Beginner Mandolin - Review by MelodicMinds

Harley Benton HBMA-50 Mandoline VS - Cheap Beginner Mandolin - Review

MelodicMinds

MelodicMinds

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Harley Benton HBMA-50 Mandoline VS.

Build quality

  • Owners praise its durability, noting it withstands falls and adverse weather conditions without damage.

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  • The mandolin is constructed with plywood, which some consider less desirable compared to solid or carved tops for long-term tonal quality.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Initial setup may require adjusting the bridge and truss rod; new strings are recommended for better playability.

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  • Some owners have had to disassemble and reassemble the mandolin to remove obstructions under the bridge.

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Comparisons

  • It's compared to Rogue mandolins, considered low-end on Mandolin Café but more affordable at around 100 euros.

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  • The Harley Benton HBMA-50 Mandoline VS is visually similar to the Denver DMAS-VS, suggesting a common design standard across brands.

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Use cases and applications

  • Known for being loud, making it suitable for outdoor settings like camping trips.

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  • Ideal for beginners who want to explore mandolin without committing to a higher investment; not recommended for those intending to gig.

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  • Suitable for those exploring mandolin casually, but serious learners may desire an upgrade within a few months.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Offers great value for beginners, especially when set up correctly, for a fraction of the cost of higher-end models.

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  • The Harley Benton mandolin is considered a good starter instrument, especially for private use, with a price point significantly lower than higher-quality brands like Eastman or Kentucky.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners with experience in other instruments, like guitar, find it a suitable entry point to learn mandolin basics before investing in a premium model.

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  • One user found the G string's B note difficult to fix, implying potential setup challenges with this specific note.

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  • An owner upgraded from a $10 bowlback mandolin to a $10,000 Gibson F5L, highlighting the potential journey from beginner to high-end instruments.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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