Best Semi Hollow Electric Guitars (2023 Update)
If you’re looking for a versatile and classic sound, semi-hollow electric guitars are a great option for any musician. These guitars have a unique design that combines the best features of solid-body and hollow-body guitars. They have a semi-hollow body that produces the warm and resonant tones of a hollow-body guitar, while also offering the stability and sustain of a solid-body guitar.
Before buying a semi-hollow electric guitar, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, think about the type of music you play and the sound you want to achieve. Different guitars have different tonal characteristics, so choose one that complements your style. Secondly, consider the size and weight of the guitar. Semi-hollow electric guitars are typically larger and heavier than solid-body guitars, so make sure you can handle the size and weight comfortably. Finally, think about your budget. As with any instrument, there is a wide range of prices available and you should choose one that fits within your budget.
If you’re still not sure whether a semi-hollow electric guitar is right for you, ask yourself these questions: Are you looking for a versatile guitar that can handle a variety of playing styles? Do you want a classic, warm tone that is perfect for blues, jazz, or rock? Do you want a guitar that is both stylish and functional? If you answered yes to these questions, then a semi-hollow electric guitar may be the perfect instrument for you. With so many options available, you are sure to find the best semi-hollow electric guitar that fits your needs and budget.
10 Best Semi Hollow Electric Guitars
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Ideal for guitar enthusiasts looking for a high-quality semi-hollow body electric guitar with a vintage look and feel.
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Ideal for professional or intermediate guitarists seeking a versatile semi-hollowbody electric guitar with signature sound.
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Ideal for intermediate to advanced guitar players seeking warm, versatile tonality with sleek design and high-quality hardware.
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Ideal for jazz guitarists seeking a high-quality, hollow body instrument with superior playability and smooth tone.
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5
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The product is ideal for musicians looking for a versatile semi-hollow guitar with rich and warm tones.
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6
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The product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality electric guitar with a unique, hollow body design.
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7
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The product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality semi-hollow body guitar with versatile sound options.
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8
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Ideal for professional and intermediate level guitar players looking for a versatile and high-quality electric guitar with rich tone.
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The Yamaha SA2200 Semi-Hollow Body guitar is ideal for musicians who desire a high-quality and versatile instrument.
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10
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Ideal for professional musicians looking for a high-quality hollowbody electric guitar with a vintage sound and signature style.
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1. Guild Starfire V Electric Guitar With Tremolo And Case.
This guitar boasts an attractive and sturdy arched laminated mahogany top and back, coupled with laminated mahogany sides. The 3-piece neck, made with a combination of mahogany, maple, and mahogany, is designed to provide both durability and stability. The fingerboard is made of Indian rosewood, which contributes to the instrument's overall warm and rich tone.
The Guild Tune-O-Matic bridge with rosewood base and Guild Vibrato tailpiece ensure that the instrument stays in tune and that the player can express themselves with ease. The LB-1 "Little Bucker" neck and bridge pickups deliver a clear and articulate sound that can be easily customized to suit the player's preferences.
With this guitar comes a TKL Deluxe Hardshell Case that provides excellent protection during transport and storage. Additionally, the guitar is designed for right-handed players.
2. Ibanez Jsm10 John Scofield Signature Semi-Hollowbody
The Double Cutaway Semi-Hollow Body Guitar is a stunning instrument that is perfect for musicians who demand exceptional performance and style. The guitar's body shape is designed for maximum comfort, making it ideal for extended playing sessions. The semi-hollow or chambered body construction ensures that the guitar produces a rich, resonant tone that is perfect for a wide range of genres.
Crafted from high-quality solid wood, this guitar features a beautiful flamed maple top that adds to its overall aesthetic appeal. The body wood is also maple flamed, which further enhances the guitar's tonal qualities. The guitar's finish is a glossy polyurethane that not only looks great but also protects the guitar's body from wear and tear.
The Double Cutaway Semi-Hollow Body Guitar is designed for right-handed players and features a mahogany neck that is set-in for maximum stability and sustain. The scale length is 24.75 inches, and the guitar's truss rod is standard. The neck is finished with a glossy polyurethane that not only looks great but also protects the wood from dirt and grime.
The guitar's fretboard is crafted from ebony, which is known for its smooth texture and durability. The fretboard has a radius of 12 inches, and the guitar's fret size is medium. There are 22 frets in total, and the inlays are made from mother-of-pearl. The nut width is 1.69 inches (43mm), which is perfect for players who prefer a wider neck.
The Double Cutaway Semi-Hollow Body Guitar features a HH pickup configuration, with a Super 58 Custom pickup in the neck position and no middle pickup. The guitar's pickups deliver a warm and smooth tone that is perfect for a wide range of genres, from jazz and blues to rock and metal. The guitar's controls are simple to use and allow players to adjust the volume and tone to their liking.
3. Epiphone Sheraton Ii Pro Semi-Hollowbody Guitar (Ebony Gold Hardware)
The Sheraton-II PRO is a stunning guitar that boasts of a laminated Maple back and sides, as well as a laminated Maple top. It features a 5-pc Hard Maple/Walnut laminate neck with a '60s Slim Taper neck profile, which offers a comfortable grip for the player. The guitar has a set neck with a Rosewood fingerboard that is adorned with pearloid and abalone/block and triangle inlays, adding to its elegant look.
The Sheraton-II PRO also features a Graphtech NuBone XL nut and medium jumbo frets, which allow for easy and comfortable fretting. The guitar is equipped with the ProBucker 2 and 3 pickups that deliver a rich and warm sound, and the Neck and Bridge Volume knobs come with coil taps, providing a range of tonal options to the player.
The Lock Tone Tune-o-matic bridge and Stop Bar Tailpiece on the Sheraton-II PRO ensure excellent tuning stability and sustain, making it a reliable instrument for any musician. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, this guitar is designed to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
4. Ibanez Gb Series Gb10se George Benson Signature Hollow Body
The Ibanez GB10SE is a signature model inspired by the iconic George Benson's GB10 guitar. As part of the respected Artstar Series, this guitar features high-quality components and appointments, designed to meet the demands of professional musicians while remaining affordable for the working musician.
The GB10SE's hollow body is comfortably sized and narrower, with a spruce top and maple back and sides. The guitar's smooth, strong GB 3-piece maple set-in neck provides excellent playability, while the ebony bridge and GB10 tailpiece enhance the guitar's stunning appearance.
This model also features the same half-bone/half-brass nut and Sure Grip III control knobs as the original GB10, providing fantastic tonal versatility and easy adjustments.
The GB10SE is equipped with GB Special mini-humbuckers that deliver a full-bodied, warm sound with excellent clarity and definition. The guitar's pickups are capable of producing a wide range of sounds, from smooth jazz to hard rock, making it a versatile instrument for any genre.
This guitar comes with a hardshell case to protect it during transport and storage, ensuring that it remains in top condition for years to come.
5. Hagstrom Viking Semi-Hollow
The guitar boasts a top-of-the-line Tune-O-Matic bridge system, ensuring impeccable tuning stability and ease of use. Equipped with a powerful humbucker pickup configuration, this guitar is perfect for players who crave a rich, full-bodied tone. With six strings and a right-handed orientation, this guitar is ready to take on any musical challenge that comes its way.
Crafted from high-quality laminated wood, the guitar's body is both durable and lightweight, making it ideal for extended playing sessions. The guitar's strings are made from premium-grade nickel, guaranteeing a smooth and responsive playing experience. The fretboard is crafted from Resinator, a cutting-edge material that delivers exceptional tonal clarity and sustain.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner just starting out, this guitar is the perfect choice for any musician looking to take their playing to the next level. With its expertly crafted components and unbeatable sound quality, this guitar is sure to become a beloved addition to any player's collection.
6. Ibanez Artcore Series Af75g Hollowbody Electric Guitar Flat Black
The AF75G is a full-hollow body guitar that features a Maple top, sides, and back, with a Mahogany set neck and bound Rosewood fretboard. It boasts of Classic Elite pickups and Gold hardware, which together deliver a warm, full-bodied tone that any musician would love to play.
Ibanez, a company that has been at the forefront of jazz guitar building for over three decades, has a long-standing association with jazz legends such as George Benson, Pat Metheny, and John Scofield. The Artcore collection is a testament to Ibanez's pioneering spirit, as it challenges the preconceptions of what a great hollow or semi-hollow guitar should be.
The formula for the Artcore collection involves equal parts luthiery know-how, daring design, and a passion for warm, full-bodied tone. The AF75G embodies this formula perfectly, with its select-grade Maple hollow body, set-in Mahogany neck, and Rosewood fretboard that contribute to its warm-sounding characteristics.
7. Hagstrom Tremar Viking Deluxe Semi-Hollow Body
The guitar on offer boasts exceptional playability, making it a top choice for both seasoned musicians and beginners alike. Its thin neck allows for effortless finger movement, making it easy to play complex chords and intricate solos.
The guitar features custom pickups that deliver a unique and rich sound, adding depth and character to the music being played. The pickups are thoughtfully designed to capture the nuances of each note and chord played, making for an impressive and unforgettable sound.
The guitar is available in a range of beautiful finishes that are sure to grab attention. The contoured flamed maple body, paired with a maple set neck, not only looks great but also ensures a comfortable playing experience.
With a 24.75 inch scale length and a 3-way toggle, this guitar provides a versatile range of sound that can be customized to suit any playing style. The guitar's parameters and specifications are designed to deliver exceptional performance and sound quality, making it an ideal choice for musicians of all skill levels.
8. Ibanez Ag95qa Ag Artcore Expressionist 6 String Electric Guitar (Right Hand, Dark Brown Sunburst)
The VT06 Tailpiece is a beautifully crafted piece that not only offers exceptional tuning stability but also boasts rich sustain. It has been designed with artistic precision to enhance the overall performance of the instrument.
The Gibraltar Performer Bridge is another feature that promises great tuning stability and rich sustain, elevating the playing experience to new heights. The low-positioned saddles also ensure comfortable playability, making it easy for musicians to perform for extended periods.
The 3pc Nyatoh/Maple Neck is a remarkable addition to this instrument, providing a rich mid-low end and excellent resonance. It has been structured to deliver an enhanced playing experience, giving musicians more control over their music.
The Macassar Ebony Fretboard is another feature that sets this instrument apart from others. It produces tight lows and mid-range along with strong attack in the highs, giving musicians the ability to produce a wide range of sounds and styles. Additionally, the quick response and rich sustain of the fretboard make it an ideal choice for musicians looking for a versatile instrument.
The Super 58 Pickups are an exceptional feature that offers moderate output and vintage tone, making this instrument ideal for musicians who prefer a classic sound. These pickups are designed to produce a rich, warm tone that is perfect for a wide range of genres and playing styles.
9. Yamaha Sa2200 Semi-Hollow Body
This electric guitar boasts a stunning design that combines a double cutaway laminated sycamore body with a soft maple center block. The result is a unique look that is both modern and classic at the same time. The guitar's 24.75" scale soft "D" mahogany neck is smooth and comfortable to play, while the ebony fingerboard provides a sleek and sophisticated touch.
This guitar is equipped with dual Yamaha Alnico V humbucking pickups, which deliver a full and rich sound that is perfect for a wide range of musical genres. The pickups are designed to capture every nuance of your playing, whether you are playing clean or distorted tones.
The guitar's hardware is top-notch, with a Gotoh GE103B bridge, GE101Z tailpiece, and SG30 tuning machines. These components are built to last and provide excellent tuning stability and intonation.
This guitar does not come with a case, but it is a great choice for players who want a high-quality instrument that looks and sounds great. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, this guitar is sure to impress. With its unique design, high-quality components, and versatile sound, it is a great choice for anyone who wants to take their playing to the next level.
10. Ibanez Lgb30 George Benson Signature Hollowbody Electric Guitar Vintage Yellow Sunburst
The Super 58 Custom Pickups featured in this guitar deliver a smooth and nuanced tone, perfect for blues enthusiasts. With an ebony fretboard that features Artstar fret edge treatment, players can expect a tight response and smooth left-hand fingering. The bone nut also adds to the overall richness of the tone, making it sound great from low to high notes. This guitar comes equipped with both a wood and adjustable metal bridge, allowing players to customize their sound to their liking. Additionally, the custom designed tailpiece adds a unique touch to the overall aesthetic of the guitar. The hardshell case included with the guitar ensures that it can be transported safely and securely. Overall, this guitar is a great choice for players who are looking for a high-quality instrument that delivers excellent tone, response, and versatility.
Best Semi Hollow Electric Guitars FAQs
Can you recommend some affordable semi-hollow electric guitars for beginners?
Certainly! Semi-hollow electric guitars are a great option for beginners who want to achieve a warm and versatile tone. Here are some affordable options that I would recommend:
1. Epiphone Dot: This guitar is a classic and affordable option for beginners. It features a laminated maple body and a mahogany neck, and it produces a warm and full sound.
2. Ibanez Artcore AS53: This guitar is another great option for beginners. It has a lightweight body, a maple neck, and a rosewood fingerboard. It produces a bright and clear tone.
3. Gretsch G2622 Streamliner: This guitar is a bit pricier than the others on this list, but it's still relatively affordable. It has a hollow body made of laminated maple, a nato neck, and a laurel fingerboard. It produces a warm and rich tone.
4. Squier Classic Vibe Telecaster Thinline: This guitar is a semi-hollow version of the classic Telecaster. It has a pine body, a maple neck, and a maple fingerboard. It produces a bright and twangy tone.
Overall, these guitars are all great options for beginners who want to achieve a semi-hollow tone without breaking the bank.
How do semi-hollow electric guitars compare in terms of playability and versatility?
Semi-hollow electric guitars are popular among guitarists due to their unique combination of solid body and hollow body design. When it comes to playability, semi-hollow guitars are lighter and more comfortable to play for extended periods than solid body guitars. They also offer a more natural acoustic tone, which can be enhanced with the use of appropriate amplification.
In terms of versatility, semi-hollow guitars are capable of producing a wide range of sounds, from warm jazz tones to a biting rock sound. The hollow section of the body allows for some natural resonance, which can be manipulated with different pickups, tone controls, and effects pedals.
However, it's important to note that semi-hollow guitars may be prone to feedback issues at high volumes, particularly when playing with distortion. Additionally, they may not be the best choice for heavier styles of music.
Overall, the playability and versatility of semi-hollow electric guitars make them a great option for players looking for a unique blend of solid and hollow body design. However, it's important to consider the specific needs of your playing style and musical genre when choosing a guitar.
How do semi-hollow electric guitars differ in sound and tone from other types of guitars?
Semi-hollow electric guitars are known for their unique sound and tone. They differ from other types of guitars in a few distinct ways.
Firstly, semi-hollow electric guitars have a center block that runs down the middle of the body. This block helps to reduce feedback at high volumes, while still allowing for some of the resonance and sustain that is characteristic of hollow body guitars. This combination of features results in a warm, rich tone that is perfect for many different styles of music.
Secondly, the sound of a semi-hollow electric guitar is often described as being more "airy" than that of a solid-body guitar. This is due to the fact that the sound waves produced by the strings have more room to resonate within the hollow portions of the guitar's body.
Overall, semi-hollow electric guitars offer a unique blend of characteristics that make them a popular choice for many guitarists. They offer the warmth and resonance of a hollow body guitar, with the reduced feedback and versatility of a solid-body guitar.
What are the key features to look for in a high-quality semi-hollow electric guitar?
When it comes to choosing a semi-hollow electric guitar, there are several key features that you should look for to ensure that you're getting a high-quality instrument. Firstly, a good semi-hollow electric guitar should have a solid construction that provides a balance between acoustic resonance and electric sustain. The body should be made from high-quality materials such as mahogany or maple, and should have a comfortable weight and feel.
Secondly, the guitar should have a versatile range of tones that can be achieved through the use of pickups and controls. The pickups should be high-quality and well-placed, and the controls should be easy to use and responsive. This will allow you to achieve a wide range of sounds, from warm and mellow to bright and punchy.
Thirdly, the hardware should be of high quality, including the bridge, tuners, and knobs. The bridge should be sturdy and adjustable, allowing for precise intonation, and the tuners should be smooth and easy to use. The knobs should be responsive and easy to grip, allowing for precise adjustments to the tone and volume.
Finally, the guitar should feel comfortable to play, with a well-balanced body and a smooth neck that allows for easy access to all frets. The frets should be well-constructed and set up properly, allowing for accurate intonation and easy playing.
Overall, a high-quality semi-hollow electric guitar should offer a combination of excellent tone, solid construction, and comfortable playing, making it a great choice for a wide range of musical styles and settings.
What are the most popular pickups for semi-hollow electric guitars?
Semi-hollow electric guitars are a popular choice among guitar players for their unique tone and versatility. When it comes to pickups for these instruments, there are a few options that are particularly well-suited to the semi-hollow design.
One popular choice is the classic humbucker pickup, which is known for its warm, full-bodied sound. Humbuckers are particularly effective at reducing unwanted hum and noise, which can be a problem with semi-hollow guitars.
Another popular option is the P90 pickup, which is known for its bright, punchy sound. P90s have a slightly thinner sound than humbuckers, but they offer plenty of clarity and definition.
Finally, some players prefer single-coil pickups for their semi-hollow guitars. Single-coils are known for their bright, articulate sound, and they can be a good choice if you're looking for a more traditional or vintage-inspired tone.
Ultimately, the best pickups for your semi-hollow guitar will depend on your individual preferences and playing style. It's always a good idea to try out different pickups and see which ones work best for you.
What are the pros and cons of semi-hollow electric guitars compared to solid-body guitars?
Semi-hollow electric guitars and solid-body guitars each have their own unique set of pros and cons.
One advantage of semi-hollow guitars is that they offer a warmer, more organic tone than solid-body guitars. The hollowed-out design allows for more resonance, resulting in a fuller sound that is well-suited for genres such as jazz, blues, and rockabilly. Additionally, semi-hollow guitars tend to be lighter in weight than solid-body guitars, which can make them more comfortable to play for extended periods of time.
On the other hand, semi-hollow guitars are more prone to feedback than solid-body guitars, particularly at high volumes or when playing with distortion. They also have a slightly different feel than solid-body guitars, which may take some getting used to for players who are accustomed to the latter.
Solid-body guitars, on the other hand, are known for their versatility and ability to produce a wide range of tones. They are also highly resistant to feedback, making them a popular choice for players who perform at high volumes or with a lot of distortion. However, they can be heavier and less comfortable to play than semi-hollow guitars.
Ultimately, the choice between a semi-hollow or solid-body guitar will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the player.
What are the top-rated semi-hollow electric guitars on the market?
There are several top-rated semi-hollow electric guitars available on the market today. One of the most popular is the Gibson ES-335, which has been used by legendary guitarists like Eric Clapton and B.B. King. The ES-335 has a warm, rich tone and is known for its versatility and sustain.
Another highly rated semi-hollow electric guitar is the Epiphone Dot. This guitar is a more affordable alternative to the Gibson ES-335, but still offers great sound and playability. It's been used by musicians like John Lee Hooker and Noel Gallagher.
The Ibanez Artcore AS73 is also a top-rated semi-hollow electric guitar. It has a sleek design and produces a warm, full-bodied sound. It's a great choice for players who want a versatile guitar that can handle different genres of music.
Finally, the Gretsch G5420T Electromatic is another excellent semi-hollow electric guitar. It has a distinctive sound that's perfect for rockabilly, country, and blues. It also has a stylish design that sets it apart from other guitars on the market.
What is the difference between a semi-hollow electric guitar and a hollow-body electric guitar?
When it comes to electric guitars, semi-hollow and hollow-body models are two popular options that offer distinct features and tonal qualities. The main difference between these two types of guitars is the amount of hollow space in the body.
A hollow-body electric guitar has a fully hollow body, which means that the sound produced by the strings is amplified by the resonance of the internal cavity. This results in a warm, organic tone that is well-suited for jazz, blues, and other genres that emphasize clean, clear notes.
On the other hand, a semi-hollow electric guitar has a solid block of wood running through the center of the body, with hollow wings on either side. This design provides a more focused, bright sound that is ideal for rock, country, and other styles that require a higher degree of distortion and sustain.
In general, hollow-body guitars are more prone to feedback at high volumes, while semi-hollow models offer greater sustain and versatility. Ultimately, the choice between these two types of guitars comes down to personal preference and the specific sound you are looking to achieve.
What types of music are semi-hollow electric guitars best suited for?
Semi-hollow electric guitars are versatile instruments that can be used to play a variety of music genres. However, they are especially well-suited for certain styles of music due to their unique sound and construction.
One type of music that semi-hollow electric guitars excel at is blues. The warm, woody tone of the semi-hollow body is perfect for playing blues riffs, while the sustain provided by the solid center block allows for long, sustained notes. Jazz is another genre that semi-hollow electric guitars are well-suited for, thanks to their ability to produce a clean, articulate sound that can cut through a mix.
Semi-hollow electric guitars are also commonly used in rock and roll, particularly for rhythm guitar parts. The hollow body produces a natural resonance that can add depth and dimension to chords and power chords. Some players also use semi-hollow electric guitars for indie rock, folk, and Americana music, where the warm, organic sound of the instrument can complement acoustic instruments like banjos and mandolins.
Overall, the semi-hollow electric guitar is a versatile instrument that can be used to play a wide range of music genres, but it truly shines in blues, jazz, and rock and roll.
Which brands make the best semi-hollow electric guitars?
There are several brands that are known for producing high-quality semi-hollow electric guitars. Some of the best brands include Gibson, Epiphone, Gretsch, Ibanez, and PRS.
Gibson is one of the most iconic brands in the world of semi-hollow electric guitars, with models like the ES-335 and ES-339 being regarded as classics. Epiphone, Gibson's more affordable subsidiary, also offers a range of semi-hollow electric guitars that are well-regarded for their quality and value.
Gretsch is another brand that is known for producing semi-hollow electric guitars with a unique style and sound. Their hollow and semi-hollow models are often favored by players in the rockabilly and country genres.
Ibanez is a brand that is known for their high-performance guitars, and they offer several semi-hollow models that are popular among jazz and fusion players. PRS, on the other hand, is known for their high-end instruments that are favored by players in a variety of genres.
Ultimately, the best semi-hollow electric guitar for you will depend on your personal preferences and playing style, but these brands are a good place to start when looking for a high-quality instrument.
