AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Harley Benton Single Cut Guitars 2026
The top pick is Harley Benton SC-400 SBK Classic Series ($155). Harley Benton SC-550 II PAF leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 27 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This SC-400 is a seriously impressive offering for the budget-conscious player. It nails the classic single-cut aesthetic and delivers a usable, vintage-inspired tone. Perfect for beginners or players wanting a reliable, workhorse guitar for rock, blues, and classic rock styles without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Poplar body offers surprising resonance and warmth for the price.
- Maple neck with a comfortable 'C' profile plays surprisingly well.
- Kluson-style tuners provide stable tuning and a vintage aesthetic.
Cons
- Finish, while silk-matte, can feel a bit plasticky to the touch.
- Thermally treated roseacer fretboard might lack the premium feel of ebony.
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$155 now$155€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This guitar feels like a vintage classic with a poplar body and maple neck. The humbuckers give it a thick sound perfect for blues or rock. It is a great choice if you want a solid instrument that looks and plays like a traditional archtop.
Pros
- Solid poplar body offers a classic archtop shape for smooth playing
- Thermally treated maple provides a durable and stable fingerboard surface
- Classic covered humbuckers deliver full, warm tones for rock and blues
Cons
- No weight specification makes carrying and handling uncertain
- Missing a pickup output jack limits modern use with pedals or amps
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$155 now$155€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMeranti body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
The SC-550 II PAF is a seriously impressive guitar for the price. It nails that vintage PAF vibe with its warm, articulate humbuckers and comfortable neck profile—ideal for blues, rock, and classic tones. This is a fantastic option for players wanting a quality instrument without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Chambered Meranti body offers surprising resonance and comfortable weight.
- Tesla Opus-1 pickups deliver thick, warm tones with excellent clarity.
- Graphite nut minimizes fret buzz and improves tuning stability.
Cons
- Meranti, while resonant, lacks the sustain of mahogany.
- Hardware, while 'DLX,' still feels a step below premium components.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$356 now$356€319 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This SC-500 is a seriously impressive offering for the price. It nails that vintage aesthetic and delivers a warm, thick tone ideal for classic rock, blues, and even some heavier styles. It's a fantastic starting point for beginners or a fun, budget-friendly addition for experienced players seeking a vintage vibe.
Pros
- Basswood body delivers surprisingly warm and resonant low-mids.
- Maple neck with a comfortable C profile enhances playability.
- Vintage-style humbuckers offer a thick, crunchy overdrive tone.
Cons
- Basswood can feel a little 'soft' and prone to dings with heavier use.
- The blackwood fingerboard might feel a touch 'slick' for some players.
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$189 now$189€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets24 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This guitar has a solid mahogany body with a smooth arched top that sounds good. The set-in neck and 24 frets make it easy to play up the neck. Two active humbuckers give you plenty of gain, but you'll need a battery pack. It's a budget-friendly option for players who want loud tone without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Mahogany body with arched top for solid resonance
- Set-in neck provides a smooth playing feel
- Active pickups deliver loud, high-gain output
Cons
- Okoume neck lacks the stability of rosewood
- No weight spec listed makes handling unclear
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$222 now$222€199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- BodyMeranti body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This guitar sounds big thanks to its Alnico-5 pickups and Meranti wood. The Modern C neck feels familiar under your hand. It fits well for players who want a solid, punchy tone without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Meranti body and set neck offer solid resonance.
- Alnico-5 humbuckers deliver a powerful, warm tone.
- Modern C neck profile provides a comfortable play.
Cons
- Purple satin finish may show scratches easily.
- Graphite nut is an unusual choice for many.
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- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyOkoume body
This guitar feels solid with a maple neck and rosewood board, perfect for players who want smooth fretting. The Alnico 5 pickups give a warm, vintage sound that works well for rock and blues. While it lacks extra controls, its simple design keeps it reliable and easy to play.
Pros
- Graphite nut ensures smooth string action and intonation stability.
Cons
- Single volume/tone control limits tone shaping options compared to dual controls.
- Okoume body material is less durable than traditional mahogany or solid woods.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 27Aug 27$222 now$222€199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMahogany body
This SC-Junior is a fantastic entry point to that classic, raw vintage tone. The mahogany build gives it a lovely warmth, and the P90 has a snarling bite perfect for blues, rock, and garage music. It's a real winner for players wanting that vibe without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant tones ideal for blues and rock.
- Roswell P90D provides thick, gritty character with surprising clarity.
- Graphite nut enhances tuning stability and minimizes fret buzz.
Cons
- Mahogany body can make it feel a bit heavier than some guitars.
- Single P90 pickup limits versatility; not ideal for pristine clean tones.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$233 now$233€209 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyNyatoh body
This SC-Special is a fantastic entry into the P90 world. The TV Yellow finish is slick, the neck is comfortable, and those Roswell pickups deliver a surprisingly authentic vintage growl. It's perfect for players wanting a raw, bluesy, or garage rock tone without spending a fortune.
Pros
- Nyatoh body provides a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- Roswell P90S pickups deliver a thick, gritty, and articulate vintage tone.
- 60s C neck profile offers comfortable playability and familiar feel.
Cons
- Nyatoh can be a bit dense, potentially making the guitar feel a little heavier.
- The wrap-around bridge, while vintage-correct, limits advanced intonation adjustments.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$278 now$278€249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- BodyMeranti body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This SC-Custom III is a surprisingly capable P90 machine. The Tesla pickups are a real highlight, providing a raw, powerful tone perfect for blues, rock, and even some heavier styles. It’s a fantastic option for players seeking a vintage vibe without the premium price tag.
Pros
- AAA flamed maple top adds visual flair and resonance
- Tesla P90 pickups deliver thick, articulate tone with grit
- Roasted jatoba fingerboard offers stability and a smooth playing feel
Cons
- Meranti body, while resonant, lacks the sustain of mahogany
- High-gloss finish can be prone to fingerprints and smudging
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$334 now$334€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 27 single cut guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Harley Benton SC-Custom III Active WHHarley Benton · 2 finishes46Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 12
Harley Benton SC-Custom Plus EMG TBFHarley Benton · 2 finishes46Stable$502€449$502€449Check ↗
- 13
Harley Benton SC-Junior Faded Cherry w/BagHarley Benton43Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
- 14
Harley Benton SC-Special TV Yellow w/BagHarley Benton43Stable$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 15
Harley Benton SC-Custom III Quilt MidnightHarley Benton43Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 16
Harley Benton SC-Custom III Gold TopHarley Benton43Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 17
Harley Benton SC-Custom III Desert BurstHarley Benton43Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 18
Harley Benton SC-Custom Plus EMG TBF w/BagHarley Benton43Stable$513€459$513€459Check ↗
- 19
Harley Benton SC-Junior Vintage Sunbu w/BagHarley Benton41Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
- 20
Harley Benton SC-Special Faded White w/BagHarley Benton41Stable$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 21
Harley Benton SC-Custom III Moritz YellowHarley Benton41Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 22
Harley Benton SC-Custom III Lemon FlameHarley Benton41Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 23
Harley Benton SC-Custom Plus EMG VBK w/BagHarley Benton40↑ 7.5%$575€515$575€515Check ↗
- 24
Harley Benton SC-Custom Plus EMG BCF w/BagHarley Benton34↑ 12.2%$575€515$575€515Check ↗
- 25
Harley Benton SC-200BK DNAFX AmP20 SetHarley Benton27Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
- 26
Harley Benton SC-Special TV Yellow BundleHarley Benton26Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 27
Harley Benton Electric Guitar Kit Single CutHarley Benton25Stable$122€109$122€109Check ↗
Single Cut Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 481 models we track, not a sample.
Median $323 — half of all single cut guitars here cost less.
median of 363 models · 42 mm (1.65")–43.1 mm (1.7")
median of 424 models · 625 mm (24.61")–648 mm (25.51")
most common · 395 models
most common · 322 models
How to choose the best single cut guitars
Tonewood and Construction
Most are nato/mahogany, which gives a warm, round tone - think classic Les Paul territory, but without the vintage price tag. The construction is generally solid, but don't expect the tight grain you'd find on a higher-end instrument. It's more about getting a good foundation for tone.
Pickups and Electronics
This is where Harley Benton shines, and also where you'll find compromises. The stock pickups are surprisingly decent - often a vintage-voiced humbucker with a usable, thick midrange. However, they're almost always an upgrade candidate if you're chasing a specific voicing. The pots and caps are... serviceable. They'll work, but higher-quality components will clean up the signal and add a bit more headroom.
Neck Profile and Playability
The neck profiles vary, but most are comfortable - leaning towards a '60s style slim taper. Action can be a bit high out of the box, but a quick setup can make a world of difference. It's a crucial step to get these playing like a dream, and it's something you can easily do yourself or have a tech handle.
Hardware and Tuning Stability
The tuners are...tuners. They'll hold pitch, but don't expect lightning-fast retunes after a gig. The bridges are generally decent fixed bridges, which contributes to sustain and a more stable feel. Upgrading the tuners is a common mod if you're serious about gigging.
Value for Money
This is the big one. You're getting a guitar that feels and sounds like it should cost significantly more. The compromises are there - cheaper hardware, potentially less refined finishes - but the core instrument is solid and capable. It's a fantastic platform for modification and personalization.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking at Harley Benton single cuts? Smart move. For the price, they're legitimately punching way above their weight. I've seen more than a few bands ditching their pricier axes for a few HB's - especially when you need a backup that doesn't break the bank or sounds decent plugged into a club's questionable PA. Let's break down what makes these guitars tick, and which ones are actually worth your time and money.
Look, these guitars aren't flawless. The finish might have a few minor imperfections, and the hardware is definitely the first thing to consider upgrading if you're serious about gigging. However, for the price, you're getting a lot of guitar.
Don't be afraid to experiment with pickup swaps and a professional setup - it'll transform the playing experience. And be realistic about what you're getting: it's not a custom shop axe, but it's a killer value.
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 82 single cut guitars from the Thomann catalogue (of 481 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 guitars any good?
Honestly, yes. They offer incredible value, especially for players on a budget. Don't let the price fool you - they're well-designed and can sound fantastic with a few tweaks.
What kind of music are Harley Benton single cuts good for?
They're versatile! The warm tonality lends itself well to rock, blues, classic rock, and even some heavier genres. They're not a shred machine, but they're plenty capable for most playing styles.
Should I upgrade the pickups?
It depends on your taste. The stock pickups are decent, but a hotter or more vintage-voiced set can really dial in your desired tone. It's a common and relatively easy mod.
What's the deal with the finish quality?
The finishes are generally good, but don't expect flawless nitrocellulose lacquer. You might find minor imperfections - it's part of the deal at this price point.
Are the necks comfortable?
Most Harley Benton single cuts have comfortable neck profiles, often similar to a 60s SlimTaper. However, the action might need adjustment upon arrival for optimal playability.
