AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Harley Benton Bass Guitar Sets 2026
The top pick is Harley Benton MV-4PJ Natural Set ($322). Harley Benton HBP120BK LH Bundle 1 gives you the most for the money at $200. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 31 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileD-shape neck
- BodyAlder body
This Harley Benton MV-4PJ is a seriously impressive value. The caramelized neck and custom pickups give it a surprisingly refined feel and tone – it’s got a warmth and growl that's great for classic rock, blues, and even some funk. It's a fantastic option for gigging bassists or anyone wanting premium features without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Alder body delivers a balanced, articulate low-end response.
- Caramelized maple neck provides a smooth, fast playing experience.
- Custom-wound VJB and VPB pickups offer a versatile tonal palette.
Cons
- Bolt-on neck construction might lack the resonance of a set-neck design.
- Roseacer fretboard can be prone to dryness if not properly maintained.
67AudioFu
Index↓ 13.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$372 · Aug 17$322 now$322€289 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileD-shape neck
- Strings5-string
This Harley Benton 5-string is a seriously impressive package. The caramelized neck and custom pickups deliver a surprisingly refined tone, perfect for funk, Motown, or any genre needing a little extra bite. It's an ideal choice for gigging musicians or students wanting a quality instrument without the premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain
- Caramelized sycamore neck offers a smooth, fast feel and unique character
- Custom-wound VJB pickups provide a surprisingly articulate and punchy sound
Cons
- Bolt-on neck construction may lack the sustain of a neck-through design
- Burgundy Mist finish might be polarizing – a love-it-or-hate-it aesthetic
64AudioFu
Index↓ 15.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$395 · Aug 17$333 now$333€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileD-shape neck
- BodyBasswood body
This Harley Benton JB-62CC OW is a fantastic entry point into the P-style bass world. The Roswell pickups give it a surprisingly authentic vintage tone, and the comfortable body makes it a joy to play. It's a great option for beginners or players looking for a budget-friendly, classic-sounding bass and amp combo.
Pros
- Roswell pickups deliver a surprisingly warm, vintage-voiced tone.
- Comfortable basswood body provides a lightweight and resonant feel.
- Vintage caramelised maple neck offers a smooth, playable experience.
Cons
- Bolt-on neck construction limits high-end sustain and resonance.
- Laurel fretboard may require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.
59AudioFu
Index↓ 4.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$266 · Aug 17$255 now$255€229 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyPoplar body
This Harley Benton set is a fantastic entry point for players chasing that vintage Precision Bass vibe. The PB-50 bass delivers a solid, punchy tone, and the included amp is surprisingly capable for practice and smaller gigs. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a budget-friendly, classic bass setup.
Pros
- Basswood body delivers warm, resonant low-end tones.
- Roswell VTN4 pickups nail that classic Precision Bass growl.
- Bolt-on maple neck offers comfortable playability and snappy response.
Cons
- Basswood can be a bit lifeless compared to more premium tonewoods.
- Bolt-on neck construction limits high-end sustain and complexity.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$211 now$211€189 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This Harley Benton left-hand bundle is a fantastic entry point for beginner bassists or those needing a budget-friendly backup. The PB-style pickup delivers a classic, punchy tone, and the small amp is surprisingly versatile for practice and smaller gigs. It's a solid package for anyone wanting that Precision Bass vibe without a premium-priced investment.
Pros
- Poplar body delivers a surprisingly resonant and warm low-end response.
- Modern C neck profile is comfortable and fast for a wide range of playing styles.
- PB-style split coil pickup offers a thick, growly tone suitable for many genres.
Cons
- Amaranth fretboard, while visually appealing, can be prone to dryness without regular care.
- Bolt-on neck construction limits sustain compared to set-neck designs.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$200 now$200€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- BodyAlder body
The Harley Benton B-450 bundle is a fantastic entry point for beginner to intermediate bassists looking for a versatile and well-equipped setup. The long scale and active preamp give it a modern, punchy sound that works well for rock, pop, and even some funk styles. It’s a surprisingly solid package for the budget-conscious player.
Pros
- Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- Active preamp delivers a significant boost and tonal shaping flexibility.
- Canadian maple neck offers stability and a comfortable, modern D profile.
Cons
- Black walnut fretboard might feel slightly softer than rosewood to some players.
- 8in speaker on the HB-20B amp limits low-end extension and headroom.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$266 now$266€239 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileD-shape neck
- BodyAsh body
This set sounds like a classic jazz bass but costs a fraction of the price. The fretless maple neck and ash body make it easy to play smooth, warm notes. It pairs with a small 20W amp that cuts well in quiet rooms but won't fill a big hall. Great for students or session players who want that vintage vibe without the luxury price tag.
Pros
- American ash body offers a classic vintage tone foundation
- Fretless neck provides a smooth, jazz-friendly playing surface
- Alnico 5 pickups deliver warm, articulate single-coil clarity
Cons
- 20W power limit restricts live gig volume capabilities
- Single 8-inch speaker lacks low-end punch for rock
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$278 now$278€249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This Harley Benton JB-20 CA set is a fantastic entry point for beginners or players on a tight budget looking for a classic P-Bass vibe. The single-coil pickups give it a surprisingly bright and snappy character, and the included amp is perfectly adequate for practice and casual playing. It's a great option for rock, funk, or any style where you want a clear, punchy low end.
Pros
- Candy Apple finish is striking and well-executed for the price point.
- JB-style single coils deliver a surprisingly articulate and punchy tone.
- Bolt-on neck provides a comfortable, modern feel with easy adjustability.
Cons
- Poplar body can feel a little soft and prone to dings with heavier use.
- Amaranth fretboard, while nice, may require a bit of initial fretwork for perfect playability.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$200 now$200€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This Harley Benton pack is a fantastic entry point for beginners or players on a tight budget seeking a classic Precision Bass tone. The included amp is surprisingly capable for practice and small gigs, and the overall package delivers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s perfect for rock, blues, and Motown styles.
Pros
- Poplar body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- Maple neck with a modern 'C' profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
- The PB-Style pickup delivers a thick, punchy tone ideal for classic rock and Motown.
Cons
- Laurel fretboard, while decent, lacks the premium feel and durability of rosewood or ebony.
- Single pickup limits versatility; more complex tones require additional modifications.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$200 now$200€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- BodyPoplar body
- Weight7.5 kg
This Harley Benton PJ-4 HTR set is a fantastic entry point for beginner to intermediate bassists looking for a complete, budget-friendly package. The PJ pickup configuration offers a surprising amount of tonal flexibility, while the small combo amp is perfect for home practice and quiet recording. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a versatile, playable bass without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Poplar body provides a balanced, resonant tone suitable for diverse genres.
- Modern 'C' neck profile offers comfort and speed for a wide range of players.
- PJ pickup configuration delivers versatility – punchy P-bass lows, bright J-bass highs.
Cons
- Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
- Roseacer fretboard may require a professional leveling for optimal playability.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$222 now$222€199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 31 bass guitar sets
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Harley Benton MB-5 SB Deluxe Series BundleHarley Benton50Stable$244€219$244€219Check ↗
- 12
Harley Benton B-550 Black Progressive Set 1Harley Benton · 2 finishes50Stable$322€289$322€289Check ↗
- 13
Harley Benton JB22-Set 1Harley Benton · 2 finishes48Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 14
Harley Benton PJ-5 HTR Deluxe Series Set 2Harley Benton · 2 finishes48Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 15
Harley Benton PJ-75 VW Vintage Series BundleHarley Benton48Stable$333€299$333€299Check ↗
- 16
Harley Benton WB-20BK Rock Series w/WarwickHarley Benton47Stable$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 17
Harley Benton Beatbass VS Bundle 1Harley Benton47Stable$300€269$300€269Check ↗
- 18
Harley Benton Beatbass VS Bundle 2Harley Benton47Stable$333€299$333€299Check ↗
- 19
Harley Benton PB-Shorty SBK Standard BundleHarley Benton45Stable$244€219$244€219Check ↗
- 20
Harley Benton MB22-Set 3Harley Benton45Stable$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 21
Harley Benton JB-40FL 3-Tone Sunburst SetHarley Benton45Stable$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 22
Harley Benton MM-84A SB Deluxe Series BundleHarley Benton45Stable$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 23
Harley Benton HBZ-2005 Deluxe Series SetHarley Benton45Stable$423€379$423€379Check ↗
- 24
Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK Standard Set 1Harley Benton43Stable$188€169$188€169Check ↗
- 25
Harley Benton PB-Shorty LH BK Std. Set 1Harley Benton43Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 26
Harley Benton MB-4LH SBK BundleHarley Benton43Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 27
Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK Standard Set 2Harley Benton43Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 28
Harley Benton PB-Shorty LH BK Std. Set 2Harley Benton43Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
- 29
Harley Benton HBZ-2004 Deluxe Series BundleHarley Benton43Stable$423€379$423€379Check ↗
- 30
Harley Benton Enhanced MJ-5MN Natural SetHarley Benton43Stable$434€389$434€389Check ↗
- 31
Harley Benton Enhanced MP-5MN Natural SetHarley Benton42Stable$434€389$434€389Check ↗
Bass Guitar Sets by the numbers
Measured across all 95 models we track, not a sample.
Median $266 — half of all bass guitar sets here cost less.
median of 93 models · 38 mm (1.5")–45 mm (1.77")
median of 94 models · 762 mm (30")–864 mm (34.02")
most common · 40 models
median of 15 models · 5-string–5-string
How to choose the best bass guitar sets
Value
Let's be clear, you're getting a lot of bass for your money. The price point is the biggest draw, and they genuinely deliver a usable instrument at that level. It's not a boutique, but it's far from a total compromise.
Neck Profile & Playability
Harley Benton's necks are surprisingly good. You'll find a range of profiles, from slim C to thicker D shapes. The action is often a bit high out of the box, requiring a little setup, but the wood itself feels solid and the neck joint is generally well done.
Pickup Voicing
The pickups are where the budget shows a little more. They're generally punchy and usable, but lack the nuance and complexity of higher-end pickups. Expect a fairly flat EQ, leaning towards a mid-focused tone - good for cutting through, but lacking that deep, growling low-end you might want for serious funk.
Hardware Quality
The hardware is functional, but not luxurious. The tuners are adequate for basic stability, but might need replacing if you're a heavy-handed player who tunes frequently. The bridges are typically solid enough, but don't expect super-precise intonation adjustments.
Body Wood & Resonance
Different models use different woods (alder, mahogany, basswood). Alder tends to offer a more balanced tone, while mahogany gives a warmer, woodier character. Basswood is often the lightest, but can feel a bit 'dead' without a good amp to drive it.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk Harley Benton bass sets. You're probably thinking, 'another budget brand, right?' But HB's been quietly shaking things up, offering surprisingly playable and decent-sounding basses for the price. These sets are a great starting point, or a solid backup for the gigging musician who doesn't want to risk their prized instrument, but knowing what to look for is key.
These sets are fantastic for the budget-conscious, but manage expectations. The electronics are the first upgrade I'd recommend if you're serious about tone. Don't expect perfect intonation straight out of the box; a proper setup is essential.
And remember, a cheap bass still needs good strings - don't skimp there.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 84 bass guitar sets from the Thomann catalogue (of 95 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Are Harley Benton basses any good?
They're surprisingly good for the price. Don't expect boutique quality, but they're far more playable and sound better than many basses in the same price range. They're a great value, especially for beginners or gigging musicians needing a backup.
What kind of music are Harley Benton basses suited for?
They're versatile enough for most genres. The mid-focused tone works well for rock, pop, and even some funk. For heavier styles, you'll likely want to upgrade the pickups to add more low-end thump and clarity.
Do I need to get a setup for a Harley Benton bass?
Absolutely. The action is often a bit high, and intonation might be off. A professional setup will dramatically improve playability and make a huge difference in the overall feel and sound.
What's the difference between the different Harley Benton bass models?
The main differences lie in the body wood, pickup voicing, and neck profile. Research the specific models - watch YouTube reviews and read forums - to find one that matches your tonal preferences and playing style.
Can I upgrade the pickups on a Harley Benton bass?
Definitely. The electronics are easily accessible, and upgrading the pickups is the single biggest improvement you can make to the tone. It's a common and relatively straightforward mod.
