Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $345

Budget/Beginner

$400

$1001+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Harley Benton SC-550 Plus EMG FTF". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 25, 2026.

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Description

Meet the Harley Benton SC-550 Plus EMG FTF, a masterful blend of elegance and power designed for the discerning guitarist. This electric guitar from the Deluxe Series features a body crafted from Okoume, topped with a stunning AA flamed maple veneer, creating a visually striking instrument that resonates with rich, warm tones. The set-in neck, made from Nyatoh, is designed for ease of playability and comfort, featuring a 1960 C profile that fits snugly in your hand.

The EMG Retro Active FAT 55 Covered PAF Style Alnico-5 humbuckers are the heart of this guitar, delivering a dynamic range and clarity that’s perfect for everything from blues to hard rock. The roasted jatoba fingerboard with white pearloid trapezoid inlays adds a touch of class, while the medium jumbo stainless steel frets ensure smooth, effortless bends and sustain.

Equipped with WSC LP17 Tune-O-Matic bridge and WSC Schaller Style J07LKF locking machine heads, this guitar stays in tune even during the most intense performances. The controls are intuitive, featuring two volume and two tone knobs along with a 3-way switch, giving you complete command over your sound.

Key Features:

  • Deluxe Series
  • Okoume body with AA flamed maple top
  • Set-in Nyatoh neck with roasted jatoba fingerboard
  • 22 Medium jumbo stainless steel frets
  • EMG Retro Active FAT 55 Covered PAF Style Alnico-5 humbuckers
  • 2 Volume, 2 Tone controls, and 3-way switch
  • WSC LP17 Tune-O-Matic bridge
  • WSC Schaller Style J07LKF locking machine heads
  • Nickel hardware
  • Original strings: .010 - .046

Product specs

Available since March 2021
Colour Sunburst
Body Okoume
Top Maple
Neck Nyatoh
Fretboard Jatoba
Frets 22
Scale 628 mm
Pickups HH
Tremolo None
Incl. Case No
Incl. Gigbag No

FAQs

What kind of pickups does the Harley Benton SC-550 Plus EMG FTF have?

The Harley Benton SC-550 Plus EMG FTF is equipped with EMG humbucker pickups, known for their high output and clarity, making them suitable for heavy rock and metal genres.

Is the Harley Benton SC-550 Plus EMG FTF suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Harley Benton SC-550 Plus EMG FTF is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable neck profile and affordable price point, while still offering features that appeal to more advanced players.

What is the neck profile of the Harley Benton SC-550 Plus EMG FTF?

The neck of the Harley Benton SC-550 Plus EMG FTF is made from Nyatoh and features a comfortable profile that facilitates easy playability for both beginners and experienced guitarists.

Does the Harley Benton SC-550 Plus EMG FTF come with a case or gigbag?

No, the Harley Benton SC-550 Plus EMG FTF does not include a case or gigbag, so you may need to purchase one separately to protect your instrument.

What is the scale length of the Harley Benton SC-550 Plus EMG FTF?

The Harley Benton SC-550 Plus EMG FTF has a scale length of 628 mm, which is typical for single-cut electric guitars and contributes to its playability and tone.

András Hushegyi

András Hushegyi

Harley Benton SC-550 Plus EMG FTF - I don´t understand this guitar

Video thumbnail for Harley Benton SC-550 Plus EMG FTF - I don´t understand this guitar by András Hushegyi

Harley Benton SC-550 Plus EMG FTF - I don´t understand this guitar

András Hushegyi

András Hushegyi

Reviews

PROS

  • High-quality build and beautiful flame top finish

  • EMG pickups offer versatile sound from cleans to high-gain

  • Comparable to higher-end models at a fraction of the price

  • Excellent fretwork and low action for smooth playability

  • Locking tuners enhance tuning stability

  • Perfectly set up from the factory, requiring minimal adjustments

  • Offers classic tones similar to a Les Paul

  • Lightweight and easy to handle

  • Solid potentiometers and switches ensure reliable operation

CONS

  • Neck is thicker than some players might prefer

  • Volume and tone knobs feel cheap

  • Lighter body may not appeal to traditional Les Paul fans

  • Slight buzz present after setup, though not audible through amp

  • Frets may require additional polishing

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Harley Benton SC-550 Plus EMG FTF.

Features and functionality

  • The guitar features locking tuners that maintain tuning stability effectively, even with vigorous playing.

    Source
  • The active EMG pickups provide a powerful sound but require battery changes, which some users find inconvenient compared to passive systems that continue to function without power.

    Source
  • The model has a recurring issue with the pickup switch that can cause noise, particularly affecting the neck pickup position.

    Source
  • The EMG Fat 55 active pickups are installed in this model, which can sometimes present noise issues not related to grounding.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some B-stock models may have significant cosmetic flaws, like prominent scratches or bent strap buttons, impacting the overall appearance.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners suggest the SC-550 Plus EMG FTF rivals more expensive models like Epiphones, especially given its price point and features like EMG pickups and locking tuners.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The guitar is highlighted as offering exceptional value, providing features such as EMG pickups and locking tuners at a price point below $400, which is rare for its category.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Wrapping the switch with electrical tape can prevent it from making contact with the conductive finish inside the cavity, resolving noise issues for some users.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Harley Benton SC-550 Plus EMG ups the ante for budget single-cuts - gearnews.com

gearnews.com

Harley Benton’s SC-550 Plus EMG shatters expectations for budget guitars, delivering solid construction and impressive playability. With its vibrant unplugged sound and the surprisingly vintage tones from the EMG Retro Active pickups, this model stands tall among pricier competitors. However, a few minor issues, such as locking tuners that could be better and a slightly steep neck angle, remind us of its budget roots. Despite these quirks, the SC-550 Plus EMG offers exceptional value, making it a worthy choice for both beginners and seasoned players looking for a reliable single-cut guitar.

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Genre Usage

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