Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $117

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$100

$601+

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Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Harley Benton HBO-850 Classic Blue". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 25, 2026.

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Description

Discover a new dimension of classical guitar playing with the Harley Benton HBO-850. Crafted for the modern musician, this roundback guitar melds traditional nylon-string warmth with contemporary design elements. Its super shallow ABS bowl body is not only visually striking but also enhances the resonance and projection, making it perfect for both intimate and larger venues. The spruce top lends a bright, articulate voice, while the cutaway design provides effortless access to higher frets, expanding your creative possibilities.

The mahogany neck, featuring a modern C profile, is designed for comfort and playability, making long sessions feel like a breeze. Paired with a thermally treated Roseacer fretboard, the HBO-850 offers a smooth, responsive playing experience. With 23 frets and a 648 mm scale, this guitar is versatile enough for both intricate fingerstyle arrangements and robust strumming.

Equipped with a 3-band EQ pickup system, the Harley Benton HBO-850 allows you to tailor your sound with precision, whether you're on stage or in the studio. The open gear classic machine heads ensure tuning stability, while the blackwood bridge adds to the aesthetic appeal and tonal quality. Whether you're a seasoned performer or a budding enthusiast, this guitar is sure to inspire and elevate your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Roundback design with cutaway for enhanced playability
  • Spruce top with ABS super shallow bowl body
  • Mahogany neck with modern C profile
  • Roseacer fretboard with 23 frets
  • 648 mm scale length and 48 mm nut width
  • Blackwood bridge and open gear classic machine heads
  • Dual action truss rod for neck stability
  • Pickup system with 3-band EQ for sound versatility
  • HB medium tension nylon strings

Product specs

Available since September 2017
Top Spruce
Back and Sides Plastic
Cutaway Yes
Body Depth Super Shallow
Nut width in mm 48,00 mm
Frets 23
Pickup System Yes
Colour Blue
Incl. Case No
Incl. Gigbag No
Fretboard Roseacer
Pickups 1
Scale 648 mm

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the top of the Harley Benton HBO-850 Classic Blue?

The top of the Harley Benton HBO-850 Classic Blue is made from spruce, which is known for its bright and clear tonal qualities.

Does the Harley Benton HBO-850 Classic Blue come with a pickup system?

Yes, the Harley Benton HBO-850 Classic Blue is equipped with a pickup system, allowing it to be amplified for live performances or recordings.

Is the Harley Benton HBO-850 Classic Blue suitable for beginners?

With its shallow body depth and cutaway design, the Harley Benton HBO-850 Classic Blue is a good option for beginners, offering comfortable playability and easy access to higher frets.

What is the nut width of the Harley Benton HBO-850 Classic Blue?

The nut width of the Harley Benton HBO-850 Classic Blue is 48 mm, which provides a comfortable spacing for fingerstyle playing.

Does the Harley Benton HBO-850 Classic Blue include a case or gigbag?

No, the Harley Benton HBO-850 Classic Blue does not include a case or gigbag, so you may want to purchase one separately for protection during transport.

Alan Roy Hocking

Alan Roy Hocking

Round Back Harley Benton HBO 850 Classic Blue Nylon String Guitar Reviewed - Are You Serious!

Video thumbnail for Round Back Harley Benton HBO 850 Classic Blue Nylon String Guitar Reviewed - Are You Serious! by Alan Roy Hocking

Round Back Harley Benton HBO 850 Classic Blue Nylon String Guitar Reviewed - Are You Serious!

Alan Roy Hocking

Alan Roy Hocking

Video thumbnail for Guitar review: Harley Benton HBO 850 classic blue by Bob David Bell Music

Guitar review: Harley Benton HBO 850 classic blue

Bob David Bell Music

Bob David Bell Music

Video thumbnail for Sting - Fragile | Cover  by Jiji with Harley Benton HBO-850 Classic Blue Guitar by InnuMaccaband

Sting - Fragile | Cover by Jiji with Harley Benton HBO-850 Classic Blue Guitar

InnuMaccaband

InnuMaccaband

Video thumbnail for BACH - Prelude Suite 1 GMaj -Harley Benton HBO 850 Classic Blue by Ale Acoustic Guitar

BACH - Prelude Suite 1 GMaj -Harley Benton HBO 850 Classic Blue

Ale Acoustic Guitar

Ale Acoustic Guitar

Reviews

PROS

  • Attractive mahogany neck with smooth satin finish for comfortable playability

  • Hybrid design with nylon strings and narrower neck, ideal for arthritis sufferers

  • Truss rod adjustment for fine-tuning action enhances playability

  • Built-in preamp and EQ offer versatile amplified sound control

  • Unique bowl back design with decorative leaf effect enhances aesthetic appeal

  • Good volume and balanced sound unplugged, suitable for various music styles

  • Highly affordable price with features often found in more expensive models

  • Responsive and pleasant sound when amplified, especially with effects

CONS

  • Minor finish imperfections, including glue residue and unglued decorative pieces

  • Some sharp fret ends require light dressing for better comfort

  • Low E string response weaker in amplified sound

  • Occasional tuning instability addressed by replacing strings

  • Mildly elevated action compared to electric guitars may require adaptation

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Harley Benton HBO-850 Classic Blue.

Build quality

  • Some owners noticed the finish isn't flawless, with rough fret ends and crude wood trim compared to Ovation models.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The action was notably high upon delivery but was easily adjustable using the truss rod.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The battery checker glows red even with new batteries, causing confusion about battery status.

    Source
  • The Harley Benton HBO-850 has a plastic back, similar to the design of Ovation guitars, which can affect the playing comfort and sound projection.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Functions well as a camping or outdoor practice instrument due to its affordability and durability.

    Source
  • It's indicated that players interested in plugging in their guitar should ensure compatibility and sound quality with their preferred amplification setup.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The mid to shallow bowl design mirrors Ovation's issues with lap stability, but using a strap resolves the problem.

    Source
  • Some owners suggest trying Takamine guitars for a better sound when plugged in, despite the higher price point compared to the Harley Benton HBO-850.

    Source

User experience

  • The guitar's curved back may require players with a larger build to use a strap or adjust their seating position for comfort.

    Source

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lminiero

lminiero

Gear IQ 796

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    Gear IQ 796