Pricing and availability

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

Average Price: $98

Budget/Beginner

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

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

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Description

Discover a compact powerhouse with the Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK, a short-scale electric bass designed for musicians who crave comfort and punchy sound without compromising quality. Ideal for both budding bassists and seasoned players, this bass is a perfect blend of style and functionality. The poplar body ensures lightweight playability, while the maple neck offers a smooth playing experience, making those long jam sessions a breeze.

With its modern "C" neck profile and a 762 mm scale length, the PB-Shorty BK promises ease of playability, especially for those with smaller hands or those who prefer a more agile instrument. The laurel fingerboard adorned with dot inlays not only enhances the classic aesthetic but also provides a familiar tactile experience. Equipped with a single PB-style split coil pickup, this bass delivers a versatile tonal range that's ideal for various music genres, from rock to funk.

The Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK doesn't skimp on control, featuring a double-action truss rod, 19 frets, and precise machine heads to keep your tuning stable. The chrome hardware adds a touch of elegance while ensuring durability. Whether you're playing on stage or recording in the studio, this bass promises to become an essential part of your musical toolkit.

Key Features:

  • Standard Series design
  • Body: Poplar
  • Bolt-on neck: Maple
  • Fingerboard: Laurel with dot inlays
  • Modern "C" neck profile
  • 19 frets
  • Scale length: 762 mm
  • Nut width: 42 mm
  • Double-action truss rod
  • PB-style split coil pickup
  • 1 Volume and 1 tone control
  • Chrome hardware with classic PB-style machine heads
  • Strings: .040 - .095c

Product specs

Available since December 2004
Colour Black
Body Poplar
Neck Maple
Fretboard Laurel
Frets 19
Pickup System P
Elektronic Passive
Incl. Case No
Incl. Gigbag No

FAQs

Is the Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK is ideal for beginners due to its short scale length, which makes it easier to play, especially for those with smaller hands.

What is the scale length of the Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK?

The Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK has a scale length of 762mm, which is shorter than the standard 864mm for full-size bass guitars, offering a more comfortable playing experience.

What type of wood is used for the body of the Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK?

The body of the Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK is made from poplar, which contributes to its lightweight and balanced tone.

Does the Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK come with a case or gig bag?

No, the Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK does not include a case or gig bag, so you may need to purchase one separately for protection during transport.

What kind of pickup system does the Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK have?

The Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK features a passive P-style pickup system, known for delivering a classic, punchy bass tone suitable for various music genres.

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Elie Kh

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The CHEAPEST BASS on THOMANN (Harley Benton PB-Shorty) SLAP Solo

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Elie Kh

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Harley Benton - PB-Shorty - Short Scale Bass

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Harley Benton

Video thumbnail for Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK Standard bass by lancpudn

Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK Standard bass

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lancpudn

Video thumbnail for Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK Review | How good is a 89 euro bass? + Ignite Amp by Cesar Benzoni

Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK Review | How good is a 89 euro bass? + Ignite Amp

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Cesar Benzoni

Video thumbnail for Harley Benton PB-Shorty (short scale bass): Demo & Review + Bonus comparison with Squier Mini P by Jonathan Wong 458 Music

Harley Benton PB-Shorty (short scale bass): Demo & Review + Bonus comparison with Squier Mini P

Jonathan Wong 458 Music

Jonathan Wong 458 Music

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent value for money, feels high-quality despite low price

  • Perfect finish and aesthetic appeal; flawless paintwork and design

  • Lightweight and easy to handle, ideal for beginners or smaller players

  • Great playability right out of the box; minimal setup needed

  • Surprising sound quality, comparable to more expensive models

  • Stays in tune consistently, even after days without playing

  • Satin neck finish prevents sticky feel, enhancing playability

  • Short scale is easier to play for those used to smaller instruments

  • Customizable; easy to upgrade components for personalized enhancements

CONS

  • Original strings are of low quality and may require immediate replacement

  • Sharp fret ends may require filing for comfort

  • Soft plastic nut might reduce sustain; potential need for replacement

  • Pickup height adjustment uses foam that can compress over time

  • Some machine heads may have loose action, affecting tuning stability

Owner Insights

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

Setup and maintenance

  • It's suggested to have a professional setup for optimal playability, potentially costing around 40-50 euros.

    Source
  • A user found the stock action set high with no neck relief, requiring adjustments for better playability.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find the Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK surprisingly functional without modifications, even when moving between different climates.

    Source
  • One owner experienced the G string being too close to the fretboard edge due to an off-center bridge, requiring repositioning.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Considered a miracle at £80, offering decent quality for beginner to intermediate players without extensive upgrades.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some owners report issues with the neck pocket not being cut straight, causing a visible gap between the neck and body without affecting playability.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Upgrading to Seymour Duncan Quarter Pounder pickups is a popular recommendation for improved sound quality.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The stock active preamp has been criticized for minimal impact when adjusting bass or treble.

    Source

Comparisons

  • A Harley Benton P-bass is considered slightly below a Squier Classic Vibe but superior to cheap Ibanez or Yamaha models.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 7 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
D

A very good bass for beginners

This instrument almost sounds like a Fender P Bass, especially with new strings on it. It can be used on live performances aswell.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Nathan Navarro uses Harley Benton PB-Shorty

Nathan Navarro

Bassist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

In his YouTube video titled "$73 Bass Guitar VS $16,000 Bass Guitar," Nathan Navarro uses the Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK for comparison.

See how Vaganych uses Harley Benton PB-Shorty

Vaganych

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video titled "КУПИЛ КОРОТКИЙ БАС И РАД," Vaganych can be seen playing the Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK Bass. He used this bass to record the album "Ужас" for his solo project, "Этажность."

Genre Usage

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

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Harley Benton PB-Shorty, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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