Pricing and availability

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

Average Price: $125

Budget/Beginner

$200

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Harley Benton HBO-850SB". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 19, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Introducing the Harley Benton HBO-850SB, where classic acoustic charm meets modern electric versatility. This acoustic-electric guitar is designed for musicians who crave both rich, resonant tones and the ability to amplify their sound seamlessly. The innovative roundback with a cutaway design not only gives the guitar a distinctive look but also allows for easy access to higher frets, making it a favorite among performers and songwriters alike.

Crafted with a spruce top, the HBO-850SB delivers a bright and clear sound, while the ABS super shallow bowl body ensures durability and comfort during long jam sessions. The neck, made from sapele, complements the Roseacer fretboard—an environmentally friendly alternative known for its smooth playability and warmth. Whether you're strumming chords or picking out intricate solos, the 24 frets offer a full range of sonic possibilities.

Equipped with a built-in pickup and a 3-band EQ, this guitar allows for precise tonal adjustments, ensuring your sound is always stage-ready. The diecast machine heads provide stable tuning, and the cream-colored body and neck binding add a touch of elegance to this already stunning instrument.

Key Features:

  • Roundback with cutaway design
  • Spruce top for bright tones
  • ABS super shallow bowl body
  • Sapele neck with Roseacer fretboard
  • 24 frets for extended range
  • Built-in pickup with 3-band EQ
  • Diecast machine heads for stable tuning
  • Scale: 650 mm; Nut width: 43 mm
  • Strings: .011 - .052

Product specs

Available since December 2010
Top Spruce
Back and Sides Plastic
Cutaway Yes
Body Depth Super Shallow
Nut width in mm 43,00 mm
Frets 22
Pickup System Yes
Colour Sunburst
Incl. Case No
Incl. Gigbag No

FAQs

Is the Harley Benton HBO-850SB suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Harley Benton HBO-850SB is suitable for live performances due to its built-in pickup system, allowing you to connect to an amplifier or PA system for amplified sound.

What materials are used in the construction of the Harley Benton HBO-850SB?

The Harley Benton HBO-850SB features a spruce top and plastic back and sides, contributing to its lightweight and durable design.

Does the Harley Benton HBO-850SB come with a case or gig bag?

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

What is the body depth of the Harley Benton HBO-850SB?

The Harley Benton HBO-850SB has a super shallow body depth, making it comfortable to play and easy to handle, especially for smaller players or those who prefer a lighter guitar.

How many frets does the Harley Benton HBO-850SB have?

The Harley Benton HBO-850SB is equipped with 22 frets, providing a wide range for playing various musical styles and techniques.

Damian Gitaromania

Damian Gitaromania

Harley Benton HBO 850 SB

Video thumbnail for Harley Benton HBO 850 SB by Damian Gitaromania

Harley Benton HBO 850 SB

Damian Gitaromania

Damian Gitaromania

Reviews

PROS

  • Beautiful finish with only minor imperfections visible under close inspection

  • Provides a powerful sound for a shallow bowl body

  • Closely mimics the Ovation sound at an affordable price

  • Feedback-free performance at high volumes

  • Loud with interesting tones, different from traditional dreadnoughts

  • Easy playability once properly set up

  • Good preamp control despite a bright piezo pickup

CONS

  • Initial high string action requires adjustments for comfortable play

  • Nut width discrepancy, advertised vs. actual measurement

  • Corrosion and non-functional tuning keys needing replacement

  • Rough fretboard and scratchy frets requiring polishing

  • Decorative leaf damage on some models

  • Generic tuners can be challenging to tune accurately

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • The wood trim is noted to be crude compared to Ovation models, indicating less attention to aesthetic detail.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The action was initially high but is adjustable via the truss rod for improved playability.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The battery checker glows red, which may indicate a battery issue; users are advised to verify with different 9V batteries.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The guitar is described as a mid to shallow bowl version, mirroring Ovation's potential playability issues on the lap.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It serves well as a camping and outdoor practice instrument due to its durability and affordability.

    Source

User experience

  • Some finish imperfections and rough frets have been reported, typical for budget-friendly options.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
asad_mohammadi

perfect for it's price

generic tuners and plastic nut, a bit annoying to get in tune, but when you do they stay frets are rough throughout but in the last few frets they are nearly flat. doesn't matter since you don't play that high on acoustics.

Genre Usage

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

More Harley Benton Acoustic-Electric Guitars

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides