Best Hollow Body Electric Guitars (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for a guitar that gives you warm, rich tones with plenty of sustain, a hollow body electric guitar could be just what you need. These guitars are perfect for jazz, blues, and rock, and have a unique sound that’s hard to replicate with a solid body instrument. But with so many options available, how do you know which hollow body guitar is the best for you?
Before you buy a hollow body electric guitar, there are a few factors to consider. First, you’ll want to think about your budget. Hollow body guitars can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so you’ll need to decide how much you’re willing to spend. You’ll also want to consider the style of music you’ll be playing, as well as your skill level. If you’re a beginner, you’ll want a guitar that’s easy to play and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance.
If you’re serious about finding the best hollow body electric guitar, ask yourself these questions: What kinds of music do I want to play? What’s my budget? Do I want a guitar with single-coil or humbucker pickups? What are the reviews like for the guitars I’m interested in? Do I want a vintage-style instrument or something more modern? Taking the time to answer these questions will help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect hollow body guitar for your needs.
10 Best Hollow Body Electric Guitars
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
The product is ideal for musicians seeking a semi-hollow electric guitar with a warm and rich tone, suitable for various music genres.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
Ideal for musicians seeking a versatile, affordable semi-hollow electric guitar with warm tone and comfortable playability.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
The product is ideal for musicians seeking a versatile semi-hollowbody electric guitar with a sleek and modern aesthetic.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
Ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality, versatile hollow body electric guitar at an affordable price.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
The product is ideal for musicians seeking a semi-hollow-body electric guitar with spalted maple design.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
The product is ideal for those in need of a high-quality, affordable hollow-body electric guitar with a transparent cherry red finish.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
The product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality and visually appealing hollowbody electric guitar.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
This product is ideal for musicians who want a high-quality, hollow-body electric guitar with a unique blueburst finish.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
The product is ideal for musicians who want an electric guitar with a semi-hollow-body design and transparent black finish.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
The product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality, affordable hollow body electric guitar.
|
|
1. Ibanez Artcore As73 Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar Tobacco Brown
Introducing the Artcore Set Mahogany Neck Electric Guitar, a sleek and stylish instrument that boasts impressive features for guitar enthusiasts of all levels. Crafted with a double-cutaway, all-maple body, this guitar delivers a balanced and resonant tone that is sure to impress.
Equipped with a mahogany neck, the Artcore Set provides a smooth and comfortable playing experience. It features 22 frets and a bound rosewood fretboard that ensures excellent playability and response. Whether you're shredding solos, playing chords, or experimenting with different techniques, this guitar is sure to meet your needs.
One of the standout features of the Artcore Set is its ART1 bridge. This bridge is designed to provide optimal intonation and sustain, allowing you to hit every note with precision and clarity. Whether you're playing clean or distorted, this guitar delivers a powerful and dynamic sound that is sure to captivate your audience.
In terms of design, the Artcore Set is a true work of art. Its sleek and modern appearance is highlighted by its double-cutaway body, which allows for easy access to the upper frets. The all-maple construction gives it a timeless and classic look that is sure to turn heads.
2. Ibanez Artcore 6 String Semi-Hollow-Body Electric Guitar, Right, Tobacco Flat (Am53tf)
The Infinity R pickups are a top-of-the-line choice for musicians seeking warm, balanced articulation and exceptional response across multiple music genres. These pickups are designed to deliver a rich, nuanced sound that is ideal for a variety of playing styles. With their advanced technology and superior craftsmanship, the Infinity R pickups are sure to impress even the most discerning musicians.
In addition to their exceptional sound quality, the Infinity R pickups also feature an Art-St Bridge that provides unparalleled tuning stability. This advanced bridge design ensures that your guitar stays in tune even during the most intense playing sessions, so you can focus on your performance with confidence.
One of the standout features of the Infinity R pickups is their easy access to higher notes. This makes them an ideal choice for musicians who want to explore new musical territory and push the boundaries of their playing. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, the Infinity R pickups are sure to inspire you and help you achieve your musical goals.
3. Ibanez Artcore Series As73g Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitar Flat Black
For over thirty years, Ibanez has been at the forefront of jazz guitar innovation, with the likes of George Benson, Pat Metheny, and John Scofield utilizing their hollow-body models. One of their standout collections is the Artcore series, which defies traditional notions of what a great hollow or semi-hollow guitar should be.
The AS73G is a prime example of this formula, combining expert craftsmanship, bold design, and a dedication to producing warm, rich tones. Its semi-hollow body is constructed of select-grade Maple, while the Mahogany neck and Rosewood fretboard further enhance its sonorous qualities.
Notably, the AS73G features a double cutaway body shape, allowing for greater access to the upper frets. The body is also available in a chambered design, which reduces weight and enhances resonance. The guitar's satin finish offers a smooth and sleek aesthetic, while a bolt-on joint ensures stability and durability.
The neck has a "speed" shape, designed for effortless playing and greater comfort. The 25.5-inch scale length and standard truss rod allow for easy adjustment and customization. The Rosewood fretboard is bound and boasts a compound radius, providing a versatile playing surface suitable for a wide range of styles.
The AS73G's medium stainless-steel fret size adds to its playability and durability, as well as its ability to produce clear and defined notes. Overall, this guitar is a testament to Ibanez's commitment to pushing the boundaries of what a hollow or semi-hollow guitar can achieve, both in terms of sound and design.
4. Ibanez Artcore Series Af75g Hollowbody Electric Guitar Flat Black
The AF75G by Ibanez is a full-hollow body guitar that features a maple top, sides, and back, along with a mahogany set neck and a bound rosewood fretboard. The guitar's classic elite pickups and gold hardware complete its sleek and sophisticated look.
With a long-standing association with giants of jazz guitar such as George Benson, Pat Metheny, and John Scofield, Ibanez has been a pioneer in the world of hollow-body guitar building for over three decades. The Artcore collection, in particular, has been smashing preconceptions of what a great hollow or semi-hollow guitar should be.
The Artcore formula is built on equal parts luthiery know-how, daring design, and a passion for warm, full-bodied tone. These qualities are evident in the AF75G, which produces a sound that is unparalleled in its warmth and richness.
The select-grade Maple hollow body, set-in Mahogany neck, and Rosewood fretboard all contribute to the AF75G's warm sound. The guitar is perfect for jazz and blues players who want a guitar that delivers a warm and full-bodied tone.
5. Michael Kelly Mkhyss Hybrid Special Semi-Hollow-Body Electric Guitar, Spalted Maple
Introducing a sleek and stylish guitar that's perfect for both beginners and seasoned players alike! This guitar features a set neck design, which ensures excellent sustain and tone. The chambered mahogany body provides a warm and resonant tone, while the spalt maple top adds a touch of elegance to the overall aesthetic.
With 22 frets and a rosewood fretboard, this guitar offers a comfortable playing experience and allows for easy access to higher notes. The rosewood fretboard also adds a bit of brightness to the tone, making it ideal for a wide range of playing styles.
Whether you're jamming with friends or performing on stage, this guitar is sure to impress. Its high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail make it a reliable and durable instrument that will last for years to come.
So whether you're a beginner looking for your first guitar or a seasoned player in need of an upgrade, this guitar is definitely worth considering. With its set neck design, chambered mahogany body, spalt maple top, 22 frets, and rosewood fretboard, it's a versatile and stylish instrument that's sure to inspire creativity and elevate your playing to the next level.
6. Ibanez As73 Artcore Series Hollow-Body Electric Guitar (Transparent Cherry Red)
For more than 30 years, Ibanez has been a pioneer in the world of hollow-body guitar building, with a long-standing association with jazz guitar legends like George Benson, Pat Metheny, and John Scofield. Part of that legacy is owed to the Artcore collection, which has succeeded in breaking down any and all preconceptions about what a great hollow or semi-hollow guitar should be.
Enter the AS73, part of the Artcore family. This guitar is built on a foundation of equal parts luthiery know-how, daring design, and a passion for warm, full-bodied tone. The select-grade maple semi-hollow body, set-in mahogany neck, and rosewood fretboard all contribute to the AS73's warm sound.
The AS73 features a double-cutaway, all-maple body with 22 frets on a bound rosewood fretboard. The ART1 bridge and classic Elite pickups provide excellent playability and tone while the pearl dot inlay and chrome hardware add a touch of elegance. Please note that the case is sold separately.
Whether you're a jazz aficionado or just appreciate the warm, full-bodied tone that a semi-hollow guitar can offer, the AS73 from Ibanez is a must-have for any collection. With its daring design and high-quality components, this guitar is sure to satisfy even the most discerning musician.
7. Ibanez Artcore Af75 Hollowbody Electric Guitar Transparent Red Sunburst
The electric guitar being reviewed boasts a full-hollow body design that enables an impressive resonance and sustain. The guitar's top, sides and back are constructed using high-quality maple, which contributes to the instrument's durability and rich tonality. The mahogany set neck is precisely crafted and provides excellent stability during play, ensuring that the guitar's tuning remains intact. The bound rosewood fretboard delivers a smooth playing experience, while its aesthetic appeal adds to the guitar's overall charm.
This electric guitar features an ACH1 humbucker at the neck position, designed to deliver a warm and full sound, making it ideal for blues, jazz and rock music genres. The humbucker's tonal characteristics are further enhanced by the guitar's hollow body, resulting in a unique and captivating sound. The guitar's pickup is capable of handling high gain levels, ensuring that the sound remains clear and defined, even when playing at high volumes.
8. Ibanez Af75 Artcore Hollow Body Electric Jet Blue Burst
Introducing the Hollowbody Electric Guitar with Linden Top, featuring a stunning Jet Blue Burst finish that will surely catch the eye of any musician. This guitar boasts a smooth Nyatoh neck and a bound Laurel fingerboard that provides a comfortable and effortless playing experience.
Equipped with 2 humbucking pickups, this guitar produces a rich and dynamic sound that is perfect for any genre of music. The pickups are strategically placed to capture every nuance of your playing style, whether you prefer to strum or fingerpick.
The Linden top and back of this guitar give it a unique and bold look that sets it apart from other guitars. The hollowbody design also adds to the overall sound and resonance of the instrument, making it ideal for live performances or studio recordings.
With its impressive parameters and specifications, this guitar is perfect for both beginners and seasoned musicians. Its versatile sound, sleek design, and reliable construction make it a must-have addition to any collection. Whether you're playing at a gig or jamming with friends, this guitar is sure to impress.
Invest in the Hollowbody Electric Guitar with Linden Top and experience the perfect blend of style and substance.
9. Ibanez 6 String Semi-Hollow-Body Electric Guitar, Right, Transparent Black Flat (As53tkf)
The Infinity R pickups have been designed to offer a warm, balanced articulation with an excellent response for various music genres. These pickups are a great choice for musicians who demand versatility from their instrument. Whether you're playing rock, blues, jazz or any other genre, the Infinity R pickups will deliver the sound you need.
In addition to the pickups, the Art-St Bridge provides exceptional tuning stability. This means that you can play with confidence and peace of mind, knowing that your guitar will stay in tune even after extensive use. The bridge also allows for easy adjustment, making it easy to fine-tune your guitar to your playing style.
Finally, the Infinity R pickups and Art-St Bridge combine to provide easy access to higher notes. This is particularly important for guitarists who like to play solos or lead parts. With the Infinity R pickups and Art-St Bridge, you can reach those higher notes with ease, allowing you to create more dynamic and expressive music.
10. Ibanez Artcore Af55 Hollowbody Electric Guitar – Tobacco Flat
This product is a top-of-the-line guitar built with high-quality materials that produce a rich and versatile sound. The guitar's construction features an all-maple full hollowbody that provides a tight resonance without feedback, making it an excellent choice for achieving that muted jazz tone. However, it remains flexible enough to deliver exceptional performance in other genres, from alt rock to pounding punk.
The guitar's mahogany set neck is fitted with a bound rosewood fretboard that offers a comfortable and smooth playing experience. The neck and fretboard are designed to provide exceptional playability, allowing players to navigate the frets with ease and comfort.
This guitar is equipped with an ACH-ST humbucker at the neck and an ACH-ST at the bridge, which deliver a beefy and quiet signal with pronounced mids. This setup produces a well-balanced sound that is perfect for both lead and rhythm playing.
Best Hollow Body Electric Guitars FAQs
What are the best beginner hollow body electric guitars?
When it comes to choosing a beginner hollow body electric guitar, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, you'll want a guitar that is comfortable to play, with a good tone and build quality. Additionally, you'll want to find a guitar that is affordable, without compromising on quality.
One great option for beginners is the Epiphone Dot. This guitar is a more affordable version of the Gibson ES-335, which is a popular choice among professional musicians. The Epiphone Dot offers great tone, playability, and build quality, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
Another great option is the Ibanez Artcore AS53. This guitar is also affordable, but offers a unique sound and style thanks to its semi-hollow body design. The Ibanez Artcore AS53 is a versatile guitar that can be used for a variety of genres, from jazz to rock.
Finally, the Gretsch G2420 Streamliner is a great option for beginners who want a classic look and sound. This guitar offers a hollow body design, a Bigsby vibrato tailpiece, and a Gretsch "Broad'Tron" humbucking pickup, which gives it a unique and versatile sound.
Overall, there are many great options for beginner hollow body electric guitars, and each guitar has its own unique sound and style. By considering your budget, playing style, and personal preferences, you can find the perfect guitar to help you start your musical journey.
What are the best brands for hollow body electric guitars?
There are several top brands that are known for producing high-quality hollow body electric guitars. One of the most well-known and respected brands is Gibson, which has been producing hollow body guitars for decades. Their ES series, including the ES-335 and ES-175, are particularly popular among musicians.
Another great brand for hollow body electric guitars is Gretsch. They are known for their unique designs, high-quality craftsmanship, and distinctive sound. Their most popular models include the Gretsch G5420 and G6120.
Epiphone is also a popular brand for hollow body electric guitars. They offer a range of affordable options that are ideal for beginners or those on a budget. Their Casino and Sheraton models are particularly popular among musicians.
Other notable brands for hollow body electric guitars include Ibanez, D'Angelico, and Eastman. Ultimately, the best brand for you will depend on your personal preferences and budget. It's important to do your research and try out different brands and models before making a purchase.
What are the best features to look for in a hollow body electric guitar?
When it comes to choosing a hollow body electric guitar, there are several important features to consider. Firstly, the quality of the tonewoods used in the construction of the guitar is crucial. Look for guitars made with high-quality woods such as maple, mahogany, or spruce, as these will provide a warm and resonant tone.
Another important consideration is the pickups. Hollow body guitars typically use either humbuckers or P90s, and it's important to choose pickups that suit your playing style and musical preferences. A guitar with versatile pickups that can handle a range of genres is ideal.
The size and shape of the body can also affect the tone and playability of the guitar, so it's worth trying out different models to find one that feels comfortable for you. A well-balanced guitar will allow you to play for longer periods without experiencing discomfort or fatigue.
Finally, consider the hardware and finish of the guitar. High-quality hardware such as tuners and bridges will ensure that your guitar stays in tune and plays smoothly, and a durable finish will protect the guitar from wear and tear over time. Overall, the best hollow body electric guitar will be one that feels and sounds great, and that suits your individual playing style and needs.
What are the best hollow body electric guitars for blues music?
When it comes to playing blues music on an electric guitar, the hollow body design is often the preferred choice for many guitarists. The reason being that the hollow body design provides a warmer, more resonant sound that is well-suited for the genre.
There are several great hollow body electric guitars available on the market that are ideal for playing blues music. One of the most popular options is the Gibson ES-335, which has been used by some of the most iconic blues guitarists of all time. Other notable options include the Epiphone Casino, Gretsch G5420T, and the Ibanez AS73.
Ultimately, the best hollow body electric guitar for playing blues music will depend on your personal preferences and playing style. It's important to try out different guitars and see which one feels and sounds the best to you. Additionally, be sure to consider factors such as build quality, tonal range, and overall playability when making your decision.
What are the best hollow body electric guitars for jazz music?
When it comes to jazz music, the hollow body electric guitar is a popular choice due to its warm, full-bodied sound and ability to produce a wide range of tones. There are several great options for hollow body electric guitars that are well-suited for jazz.
One highly-regarded option is the Gibson ES-175, which has been a go-to choice for jazz guitarists for decades. It has a classic look and sound, with a warm, rich tone and a comfortable, easy-to-play neck. Another excellent option is the Ibanez Artcore AF95RW, which offers a slightly more modern take on the hollow body electric guitar. It has a versatile sound that can handle a variety of genres, including jazz, and features a comfortable, slim profile neck.
For those on a budget, the Epiphone Casino is a great option that offers a similar sound and feel to the Gibson ES-175 at a more affordable price point. Additionally, the Gretsch G5420T Electromatic is another popular choice that offers a unique, twangy sound that is well-suited for jazz. Ultimately, the best hollow body electric guitar for jazz will depend on personal preference, playing style, and budget, but these guitars are all great options to consider.
What are the best hollow body electric guitars for rock and roll music?
When it comes to selecting the best hollow body electric guitars for rock and roll music, there are several factors to consider, such as the tone, playability, and construction of the guitar. The following are some of the best hollow body electric guitars that are ideal for rock and roll music:
1. Gibson ES-335: This guitar is a classic that has been used by many rock and roll legends, such as Chuck Berry and Eric Clapton. It has a semi-hollow body design that produces a warm and rich tone, making it ideal for blues and rock music.
2. Gretsch G5420T Electromatic: This guitar is highly regarded for its distinctive tone, which is characterized by a twangy and bright sound. It also has a sleek and stylish design that makes it perfect for rock and roll performances.
3. Epiphone Casino: This guitar is another classic that has been used by various rock and roll icons, such as John Lennon and Paul McCartney. It has a bright and jangly tone that is perfect for rock and roll music.
4. Ibanez Artcore AF75: This guitar is known for its excellent playability, thanks to its comfortable neck and smooth fretboard. It also has a warm and full-bodied tone that is perfect for rock and roll music.
Overall, the best hollow body electric guitars for rock and roll music are those that produce a warm and rich tone, have excellent playability, and are well-constructed.
What are the best hollow body electric guitars for under $1000?
There are several great hollow body electric guitars available for under $1000 that offer excellent value for money. One of the most popular options in this price range is the Epiphone ES-335 PRO, which offers a classic look and sound at an affordable price point. Another great choice is the Ibanez Artcore AS73, which features a lightweight construction and a versatile tone that works well in a variety of musical genres.
The Gretsch G5420T Electromatic is another excellent hollow body electric guitar that delivers a classic look and sound, with a semi-hollow body and a Bigsby tailpiece that adds extra sustain and vibrato. For those who prefer a more modern style, the PRS SE Hollowbody II is a great option, with a sleek, lightweight design and a versatile range of tones.
Ultimately, the best hollow body electric guitar for you will depend on your personal preferences and playing style. However, any of these guitars would be a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality instrument that won't break the bank.
What are the differences between a semi-hollow body and a full hollow body electric guitar?
When it comes to electric guitars, there are two main types of hollow body designs: semi-hollow and full hollow. The main difference between the two lies in the amount of hollow space inside the guitar body.
A semi-hollow body guitar features a solid block of wood running down the center of the body with hollow wings on either side. This design reduces feedback and increases sustain, making it a popular choice for rock, blues, and jazz players. Semi-hollow body guitars tend to be more versatile than their full hollow body counterparts and are often used for a wide range of musical genres.
On the other hand, a full hollow body guitar has no solid center block, resulting in a completely hollow body. This design provides a warmer, more resonant tone and is often preferred by jazz and blues players. However, the lack of a center block can lead to more feedback issues at high volumes.
Ultimately, the choice between a semi-hollow and full hollow body guitar comes down to personal preference and the type of music you plan to play. Both designs have their own unique tonal qualities and are capable of producing beautiful music in the right hands.
What are the top 10 best hollow body electric guitars?
There are many great hollow body electric guitars on the market, each with their own unique features and qualities. Here are ten of the best hollow body electric guitars:
1. Gibson ES-335 – known as the "original" semi-hollow guitar, loved for its classic tone and versatile sound.
2. Gretsch G5420T Electromatic – a more affordable option, but still delivers classic Gretsch tone and style.
3. Ibanez Artcore AS73 – another affordable option, loved for its smooth playability and versatile sound.
4. Epiphone Casino – famously used by John Lennon, this guitar delivers a warm, full-bodied tone.
5. Fender Coronado – a rare gem from the 60s, this guitar has a unique sound and style.
6. PRS Hollowbody II – a modern take on the classic hollow body, known for its versatility and high-quality construction.
7. Eastman AR371CE – a mid-range option that delivers a warm, rich tone and impressive playability.
8. Godin 5th Avenue – a Canadian-made guitar that offers a beautiful, vintage-inspired style and sound.
9. D'Angelico EX-DC – a high-end option with a luxurious feel and top-of-the-line sound quality.
10. Heritage H-535 – a classic guitar from a legendary American brand, known for its rich, full-bodied sound and exceptional craftsmanship.
What makes a hollow body electric guitar better than a solid body electric guitar?
A hollow body electric guitar is often preferred over a solid body electric guitar because of its unique tone and resonance. The hollow body allows for the sound to resonate more freely, creating a warmer and richer tone. This is particularly desirable for genres such as jazz, blues, and rockabilly, where a more mellow and vintage sound is desired. Additionally, the hollow body design allows for greater sustain and feedback control, which can be useful for certain playing styles and techniques.
Another advantage of a hollow body electric guitar is its overall aesthetic appeal. The classic design is often associated with legendary guitarists such as Chuck Berry and B.B. King, and the elegant curves and finishes make for a stunning visual display.
However, it is worth noting that a solid body electric guitar has its own advantages, particularly when it comes to heavier genres such as metal and hard rock. The solid body design allows for greater sustain, more aggressive tones, and better resistance to feedback.
Ultimately, the choice between a hollow body and solid body electric guitar comes down to personal preference and the style of music being played.
