Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $85

Budget/Beginner

$100

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Harley Benton HBMA-50E Mandoline VS". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 19, 2026.

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Description

Step into the world of folk and world music with the Harley Benton HBMA-50E Mandoline VS, a versatile instrument that melds traditional craftsmanship with modern flair. Perfect for both seasoned players and aspiring mandolin enthusiasts, this electric mandolin is designed to deliver a rich, resonant tone that’s sure to captivate audiences.

Crafted with a spruce top and a basswood body, this mandolin offers a balanced sound with just the right amount of warmth and clarity. The nato neck provides a smooth playing experience, while the blackwood fretboard, featuring 20 frets and dot inlays, ensures precise finger placement and ease of play. Whether you’re strumming chords or picking melodies, the HBMA-50E’s magnetic single coil pickup system delivers crisp, amplified sound that cuts through the mix in any setting.

With its 350 mm scale length and 30 mm nut width, this mandolin is comfortable to play, fitting naturally in your hands for extended jam sessions. The blackwood bridge and cream-colored binding add to its aesthetic appeal, while the chrome hardware ensures durability and a touch of classic elegance. Effortlessly control your sound with the built-in volume and tone controls, making it adaptable for various musical genres.

Key Features:

  • Spruce top and basswood body
  • Nato neck with blackwood fretboard
  • 20 frets with dot inlays
  • Scale: 350 mm; Nut width: 30 mm
  • Blackwood bridge and chrome hardware
  • Magnetic single coil pickup system
  • Volume and tone controls
  • Cream-colored binding

Product specs

Available since November 2000
Shape A-Style
Colour Sunburst
Body Basswood
Top Spruce
Neck Teak
Pickup System Yes
Incl. Case No
Incl. Gigbag No
Scale 350

FAQs

What type of wood is used in the construction of the Harley Benton HBMA-50E Mandoline VS?

The Harley Benton HBMA-50E Mandoline VS features a basswood body, a spruce top, and a teak neck, which contribute to its unique tonal characteristics.

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

Yes, the Harley Benton HBMA-50E Mandoline VS is equipped with a pickup system, allowing it to be amplified for live performances or recording.

Is a case or gigbag included with the Harley Benton HBMA-50E Mandoline VS?

No, the Harley Benton HBMA-50E Mandoline VS does not include a case or gigbag, so you may need to purchase one separately for protection and transport.

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

The scale length of the Harley Benton HBMA-50E Mandoline VS is 350mm, which is typical for mandolins and contributes to its playability and sound.

What is the body shape of the Harley Benton HBMA-50E Mandoline VS?

The Harley Benton HBMA-50E Mandoline VS has an A-style body shape, which is known for its balanced tonal qualities and traditional mandolin appearance.

Tomek Stężalski

Tomek Stężalski

Harley Benton HBMA 50E - Manodlin

Video thumbnail for Harley Benton HBMA 50E - Manodlin by Tomek Stężalski

Harley Benton HBMA 50E - Manodlin

Tomek Stężalski

Tomek Stężalski

Video thumbnail for HARLEY BENTON HBMA-50E MANDOLIN REVIEW (NO TALKING) by Andy da silva

HARLEY BENTON HBMA-50E MANDOLIN REVIEW (NO TALKING)

Andy da silva

Andy da silva

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional value, offering quality sound at an affordable price

  • Neck is comfortable and easy to maneuver

  • Great tone quality, especially for single-string picking

  • Stays in tune well after initial setup

  • Versatile single coil pickup for electric play

  • Robust build quality suitable for travel or rough environments

  • Clear, high-frequency sound that cuts through well

  • Excellent beginner instrument with potential for stage use

  • Decent aesthetics and finish, with a black back

  • Suitable for both beginners and experienced players seeking a budget option

CONS

  • Stock strings need immediate replacement for optimal play

  • Tuning pegs can be rough and occasionally "hang"

  • Intonation issues may require adjustment out of the box

  • Some users report string/fret buzz initially

  • Flimsy dot frets may lack long-term durability

  • Pickup can be noisy, lacking clarity of a humbucker

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • Owners praise the mandolin's durability, surviving falls and exposure to wet environments with no damage or tuning issues.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

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

    Source
  • Bridge position should be marked during string changes to maintain intonation, as the bridge is not fixed to the top.

    Source
  • It's essential to slacken strings before moving the bridge for intonation adjustments to prevent accidental string breakage.

    Source
  • The metal plate covering the bridge can be removed for string changes; this is not immediately obvious for guitar players unfamiliar with mandolins.

    Source
  • Avoid removing all strings at once; the floating bridge can shift, causing intonation issues if not marked beforehand.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Harley Benton mandolin is compared to Rogues, considered a baseline among mandolin enthusiasts, with similar quality but at a lower price point.

    Source
  • Harley Benton mandolins are often compared with brands like Eastman, Loar, and Kentucky, which are recommended for their solid tops and better gigging potential.

    Source

User experience

  • Users find the mandolin's loudness impressive, especially when compared to more expensive models.

    Source
  • Thomann's reputation as a parent brand instills confidence in the Harley Benton as a reliable entry-level option for personal use.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for outdoor activities like camping due to its sturdy build and reliable tuning in various weather conditions.

    Source
  • Suitable for beginners wanting to learn at home without the immediate need for a high-end instrument.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • For around 100 euros, the mandolin is considered great value for beginners, especially for those just exploring the instrument casually.

    Source

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