Best Semi Hollow Body Guitars (2024 Update)
If you're looking for a guitar that can deliver the warm tones of a hollow body with the cutting power of a solid body, a semi-hollow body guitar may be just what you need. These guitars have a center block running through the body, which helps to reduce feedback and enhance sustain, while the hollow wings create room for resonance and a unique tone. But with so many options available, what should you consider before making a purchase?
Firstly, think about your playing style and the kind of music you want to play. Are you a blues or jazz player looking for a mellow, smooth sound? Or do you prefer rock or indie, where a semi-hollow body can add depth and character to crunchy riffs? Consider the type of pickups – humbuckers or single coils – that will best suit your needs. Secondly, evaluate the build quality, including the wood used, finishes and craftsmanship. It's important to get a guitar that's durable, comfortable to play and looks good on stage.
Nowadays, the market is full of semi-hollow guitars with different shapes, sizes, and features. Do you need a guitar that’s easy to play for rhythm work and soloing? Does the aesthetic appeal to you in order to attract the audience on stage? So many questions to ask that can make you feel confused about what to choose. But don't worry; a semi-hollow body guitar is a versatile instrument that suits different genres and playing styles. Keep these factors in mind, and you’ll be ready to select the best option for you.
10 Best Semi Hollow Body Guitars
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Ideal for beginner or intermediate guitar players who enjoy playing jazz, blues, or rock and want a classic styled electric guitar.
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The product is ideal for musicians who want a semi-hollow electric guitar made with unique zebra wood for a distinctive look and sound.
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3
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Ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality semi-hollow body guitar with a unique and exotic look.
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4
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Ideal for musicians searching for a semi-hollow guitar with versatile sound and stylish design.
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5
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Ideal for intermediate to advanced level electric guitar players looking for a versatile, semi-hollow body sound.
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6
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The product is ideal for professional guitarists who want a high-quality 12-string semi-hollow-body electric guitar.
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7
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The product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality semi-hollow-body electric guitar with a natural finish.
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8
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Ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality, versatile electric guitar with a classic hollow body design and premium hardware.
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9
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The product is ideal for musicians who want a high-quality semi-hollow body guitar with a unique design.
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10
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This product is ideal for musicians who want a high-quality 12-string electric guitar with a semi-hollow body and hardshell case.
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1. Indio Jazz-Rock Guitar With Gig Bag
The Indio Boardwalk Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitar is a versatile instrument that offers a mellow tone, making it perfect for jazz, blues, and rock music. It features semi-hollow sound chambers that offer increased sustain and reduced susceptibility to feedback in high volume situations. This construction also provides big, warm acoustic overtones that resonate like an acoustic guitar, but much quieter, making it great for late night practicing.
The solid maple block center of the guitar further enhances the sustain and reduces feedback, while the semi-acoustic design provides the best of both worlds for players seeking a versatile instrument. The classic styling of the Indio Boardwalk Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitar is a nod to the need for guitar volume above the big brass bands of the 30s and 40s. Full hollow-bodied guitars have a tendency to generate feedback, so the semi-hollow guitar provides players with a solution to this issue.
In addition to its impressive design, the Indio Boardwalk Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitar also comes with an included gig bag that offers protection against dings and scratches as you travel. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned guitarist, the Indio Boardwalk Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitar is a reliable and versatile instrument that provides exceptional sound quality and classic styling. Get yours today and take your music to the next level!
2. Ibanez As93zw Artcore Expressionist Zebra Wood Semi-Hollow Body
The Ibanez AS Artcore Expressionist 6 String Electric Guitar is a versatile and high-performance semi-acoustic guitar designed to tackle a wide range of musical genres with ease. Whether you're playing jazz, blues, rock, or anything in between, this guitar is up to the task.
The guitar features a 3pc Nyatoh/Maple neck that provides a rich mid-low end and exceptional resonance. The neck is sturdy and well-built, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of heavy use. The Macassar Ebony fretboard produces tight lows and mid-range tones, along with strong attack in the highs and quick response with rich sustain.
The medium-sized frets on the guitar are designed to enhance the accuracy of your notes, making it easier to play complex chords and riffs with precision. This feature is particularly useful for musicians who demand a high level of performance and accuracy from their instruments.
The guitar's Zebrawood top, back, and sides provide both aesthetic appeal and excellent sound quality. The Zebrawood top displays an alluring wood grain that is sure to catch the eye of any musician or music lover. The wood itself is known for its excellent tonal qualities, providing a warm and resonant sound that is perfect for a wide range of musical styles.
3. Ibanez Am93me Artcore Expressionist Macassar Ebony Semi-Hollow Body
The guitar being reviewed is equipped with a Gibraltar Performer bridge which offers exceptional tuning stability and rich sustain. The bridge type is a crucial component in any guitar as it controls the transfer of vibrations from the strings to the body, and the Gibraltar Performer bridge ensures that the sound produced is of the highest quality.
The neck of the guitar is made of 3 pieces of Nyatoh and Maple which provides a rich mid-low end and superb resonance. The materials used in the construction of the neck play a significant role in the overall sound of the guitar. The combination of Nyatoh and Maple gives this guitar a unique and high-quality sound.
The Quik Change III tailpiece is another feature of this guitar that is worth mentioning. It allows for faster and easier string changing, making it a practical choice for guitar players who are looking for a hassle-free experience.
The Super 58 pickups featured on this guitar provide a vintage tone with moderate output. The pickups are essential components of any guitar as they convert the string vibrations into an electric signal that is then amplified. The Super 58 pickups on this guitar offer a rich and warm sound that is perfect for various genres of music.
The fretboard of this guitar is made of Macassar Ebony, which produces tight lows and mid-range. The fretboard is where the player interacts with the guitar, making it a crucial component in the overall playing experience. The Macassar Ebony used in this guitar ensures that the player gets a smooth and comfortable playing experience.
4. Ibanez As73fm Artcore Azure Blue Gradation Semi-Hollow Body
The guitar boasts of a Nyatoh neck that delivers a warm and rich mid-low end, perfect for any music genre. The Gibraltar Performer Bridge guarantees incredible sustain and tuning stability. The low-positioned saddles make playing comfortable. The guitar features a Walnut fretboard that produces a well-balanced tonal character from low to high end. The Classic Elite pickups provide rich, nuanced tone with a fat low-end, giving guitarists more expressive power. The Quik Change III tailpiece enables faster and easier string changing, making it easy to experiment with different sounds. This guitar is perfect for both novice and professional players who want to create a unique sound and explore their creativity. With its exceptional features, it is a must-have for any guitar enthusiast.
5. Ibanez Artcore 6 String Semi-Hollow-Body Electric Guitar, Right, Sunburst Red Flat, Full (Am53srf)
The Infinity R pickups are an excellent choice for musicians looking for warm, balanced articulation and responsive sound across various music genres. These pickups are designed to provide exceptional tonal clarity and versatility, making them an ideal choice for a wide range of musical styles.
In addition to their superior sound quality, the Infinity R pickups also feature an Art-St Bridge that ensures tuning stability and reliable performance. This bridge is designed to provide optimal string tension and improve sustain, making it easier for musicians to achieve the precise sound they desire.
Finally, the Infinity R pickups offer easy access to higher notes, allowing musicians to play with greater precision and accuracy. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musician, these pickups are sure to enhance your playing experience and take your music to the next level.
6. D'angelico 12 String Semi-Hollow-Body Electric Guitar, Right (Dapsscmpcscb)
Introducing a sleek and powerful electric guitar with a single cutaway design, perfect for any musician looking to take their skills to the next level. The guitar boasts a full center block, providing enhanced sustain and reducing feedback for a clean and crisp sound.
Equipped with Seymour Duncan Designed humbuckers, the guitar delivers a strong and versatile sound that can handle a wide range of genres, from smooth jazz to hard rock. The stop-bar tailpiece ensures reliable tuning stability, so you can focus on your performance without worrying about your guitar going out of tune.
Crafted with laminated spruce, the guitar has a robust and durable construction that can withstand frequent use and travel. The Tune-O-Matic bridge and bronze hardware add to the guitar's overall aesthetic appeal while providing superior functionality.
Whether you're a seasoned professional or a beginner, this electric guitar is sure to impress with its impressive features and outstanding performance. Order yours today and experience the power and versatility of this exceptional musical instrument.
7. Iyv 6 String Semi-Hollow-Body Electric Guitar, Right, Natural (Ijz-500 Na)
Looking for a reliable and high-quality guitar? Look no further than this expertly crafted instrument, made with precision and care using a state-of-the-art CNC machine with computer programming. This ensures that each and every guitar is made with consistent quality and accuracy, so you can be confident in the sound and performance of your instrument.
One of the standout features of this guitar is the perfect neck, which has been crafted with almost no defectiveness. This means that you can enjoy a smooth, comfortable playing experience without any interruptions or impediments.
In addition to its exceptional build quality, this guitar boasts a range of impressive specifications that make it a top choice for musicians of all levels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, you'll appreciate the attention to detail and thoughtful design that has gone into this instrument.
Finally, it's worth noting that this guitar is proudly made in Vietnam, where skilled craftsmen and women take pride in their work and are dedicated to producing the highest quality instruments possible. So if you're looking for a reliable and high-quality guitar that you can count on for years to come, look no further than this exceptional instrument.
8. Ibanez Am93qm Artcore Expressionist Semi-Hollow Body Antique Yellow Sunburst
The guitar being described here is equipped with some impressive features that are bound to catch the attention of any musician looking for a reliable and high-performing instrument. One of the standout features is the Gibraltar Performer bridge, which is known for its ability to provide rich sustain and tuning stability. The low-positioned saddles also ensure that players can play comfortably for extended periods.
The neck of the guitar is made using a combination of Nyatoh and Maple, which provides a rich mid-low end and great resonance. This combination results in a tone that is full-bodied and well-rounded. The Macassar Ebony fretboard is another impressive feature of this guitar, producing tight lows and mid-range, along with strong attack in the highs. It also has a quick response and rich sustain, making it a joy to play.
Another feature that sets this guitar apart from the rest is the Quik Change III tailpiece. This tailpiece makes it easier and faster to change the strings, which is a boon for musicians who need to quickly switch guitars during performances or recording sessions.
The guitar is also equipped with Super 58 pickups, known for their vintage tone and moderate output. These pickups provide a classic sound that is perfect for blues, jazz, and rock music. The Super 58 pickups also deliver a warm and full-bodied tone that is sure to please any music lover.
9. Guild Starfire 12-String Electric Guitar In Shoreline Mist
The Arched Laminated Mahogany Body and Mahogany Neck with Maple Center Strip of this product make for a sturdy and reliable instrument. With a Scale Length of 24 3/4″ (629 mm), this guitar is the perfect size for comfortable playing. The Ebony Fingerboard Material adds a touch of elegance to the overall design.
Equipped with LB-1 Pickups, this guitar produces a clear and balanced sound that is perfect for a variety of music genres. The unique spirit of natural wood is showcased in the varying color richness and wood grain of each individual instrument. It is important to note that the product shipped may appear lighter or darker in color than the product shown here due to these natural variations.
Best Semi Hollow Body Guitars FAQs
What are some of the most popular brands for semi hollow body guitars?
Semi-hollow body guitars have been around for decades and have been popular with musicians who want a warm, rich, and versatile sound. Some of the most popular brands for semi-hollow body guitars are Gibson, Epiphone, Ibanez, Gretsch, and PRS.
Gibson is a legendary brand that has been producing semi-hollow body guitars since the 1950s. They are known for their iconic ES-335 model, which has been used by many famous musicians such as Eric Clapton, B.B. King, and Chuck Berry.
Epiphone, a subsidiary of Gibson, also produces high-quality semi-hollow body guitars at an affordable price. Their Casino model has been popularized by The Beatles and is still widely used today.
Ibanez is another popular brand that produces a wide range of semi-hollow body guitars, ranging from classic to modern designs. Their Artcore series, in particular, is known for its affordable price and high-quality construction.
Gretsch is a brand that has been producing semi-hollow body guitars since the 1950s. Their guitars are known for their unique sound and style, which has been used by famous musicians such as George Harrison, Chet Atkins, and Brian Setzer.
Finally, PRS is a relatively new brand that has gained popularity in recent years for its semi-hollow body guitars. Their SE Custom 22 Semi-Hollow model is a popular choice among musicians who want a versatile and high-quality guitar.
What are some recommended semi hollow body guitars for players with smaller hands?
For players with smaller hands, semi-hollow body guitars with a thinner neck profile and a shorter scale length can be more comfortable to play. Here are some recommended options:
1. Epiphone ES-339: This guitar has a scaled-down body size and a slim-taper neck profile that makes it easier for players with smaller hands to navigate the fretboard.
2. Ibanez AS73: The AS73 has a slim neck profile and a shorter 24.7-inch scale length, making it a great option for players with smaller hands. It also has a classic semi-hollow body design and a versatile tone.
3. Gretsch G2622: The G2622 has a smaller body size than some other semi-hollows, and a "U"-shaped neck profile that can be comfortable for players with smaller hands. It also has a unique tone thanks to its Broad'Tron humbucker pickups.
4. Guild Starfire IV ST: This guitar has a thinline body design that can be comfortable for players with smaller hands, and a slim neck profile that makes it easy to play. It also has a warm and resonant tone that's perfect for jazz, blues, and rock.
Overall, there are many great semi-hollow body guitars out there that can be comfortable for players with smaller hands. It's always a good idea to try out different models in person to see what feels best for you.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of owning a semi hollow body guitar?
Semi-hollow body guitars are a popular choice for musicians who want a versatile instrument that can produce a range of sounds. There are several advantages and disadvantages to owning this type of guitar.
Advantages:
1. Versatile sound: Semi-hollow body guitars are known for their warm, rich sound that can be used in a variety of musical genres including jazz, blues, and rock.
2. Lightweight: These guitars are generally lighter than solid body guitars, making them easier to play for extended periods of time.
3. Feedback resistance: The semi-hollow design helps to reduce unwanted feedback, which is especially helpful when playing at high volumes.
Disadvantages:
1. Feedback issues: While semi-hollow body guitars are designed to reduce feedback, they can still be prone to it in certain situations, such as playing in a loud, live setting.
2. Fragility: Semi-hollow body guitars are not as durable as solid body guitars and are more prone to damage from impacts or rough handling.
3. Limited sustain: Because the guitar's body is not completely solid, it may have a shorter sustain than solid body guitars.
Overall, semi-hollow body guitars can be a great choice for musicians who want a versatile, lightweight instrument with a warm, rich sound. However, they may not be the best choice for musicians who need a more durable, sustain-heavy guitar for certain styles of music.
What are the best semi hollow body guitars for beginners?
When it comes to semi-hollow body guitars for beginners, there are several great options available in the market. These guitars are versatile and can be used for a variety of musical genres, from jazz to rock to blues. Here are some of the best semi-hollow body guitars for beginners:
1. Epiphone Dot: The Epiphone Dot is a classic semi-hollow body guitar that offers excellent value for money. It is affordable, well-built, and sounds great.
2. Ibanez AS53: The Ibanez AS53 is another great option for beginners. It features a comfortable neck, high-quality hardware, and versatile electronics.
3. Gretsch G2655T Streamliner: The Gretsch G2655T Streamliner is a stylish and affordable semi-hollow body guitar that offers a range of tonal options. It is easy to play and has a great feel.
4. Yamaha SA2200: The Yamaha SA2200 is a high-end semi-hollow body guitar that is ideal for beginners who want to invest in a quality instrument. It features a beautiful finish, high-quality electronics, and excellent playability.
Overall, the best semi-hollow body guitar for beginners depends on personal preference and budget. However, any of the above options would be a great choice for someone looking to start playing this type of guitar.
What are the best semi hollow body guitars for blues music?
When it comes to playing blues music, there are few guitar types that can match the sound and versatility of semi-hollow body guitars. If you're looking for the best semi-hollow body guitars for blues, you have a lot of great options to choose from.
One of the most popular and versatile options is the Gibson ES-335. This classic guitar has been used by countless blues legends over the years, and it's renowned for its warm, rich tone and its ability to handle a wide range of playing styles. Other great options include the Epiphone Sheraton II, the Gretsch G5420T, and the Ibanez AS93.
When choosing a semi-hollow body guitar for blues, it's important to consider factors like tone, playability, and build quality. Look for a guitar with a warm, resonant tone that can handle everything from clean, jazzy rhythms to gritty, overdriven leads. You'll also want a guitar that's comfortable to play, with a fast, responsive neck and smooth, easy-to-use controls. With the right semi-hollow body guitar, you'll be able to create the soulful, expressive sound that's at the heart of the blues tradition.
What are the best semi hollow body guitars for jazz music?
When it comes to jazz music, semi-hollow body guitars are a popular choice due to their warm and mellow tones. Some of the best semi-hollow body guitars for jazz music include the Gibson ES-335, Gretsch G5420T, Epiphone ES-175 Premium, Ibanez Artcore AS73, and the Godin 5th Avenue Jazz.
The Gibson ES-335 is a classic choice for jazz musicians, with its rich and full-bodied tone. The Gretsch G5420T is another great option, with its hollow body and Filter'Tron pickups that produce a warm and articulate sound. The Epiphone ES-175 Premium is a more affordable alternative to the Gibson ES-175, but still delivers a smooth and balanced tone. The Ibanez Artcore AS73 is a versatile guitar that can handle a range of genres, including jazz. Finally, the Godin 5th Avenue Jazz is a high-quality guitar that is handmade in Canada, with a focus on producing a warm and resonant sound.
Ultimately, the best semi-hollow body guitar for jazz music will depend on your personal preferences and playing style. It's important to try out different guitars and find the one that feels and sounds the best to you.
What are the best semi hollow body guitars for rock music?
When it comes to semi-hollow body guitars for rock music, there are a few models that stand out as favorites among musicians. One popular option is the Gibson ES-335, which has been used by countless rock legends over the years. Its versatile sound can handle anything from blues to hard rock, and its iconic shape has become a symbol of rock and roll.
Another great choice is the Epiphone Casino, which was famously used by The Beatles. Its bright and jangly tone is perfect for classic rock and pop, and its lightweight body makes it comfortable to play for long periods of time.
For those looking for a more affordable option, the Ibanez Artcore series offers a range of semi-hollow body guitars with a variety of features and finishes. These guitars are known for their high quality and playability, and are a great choice for rock players on a budget.
Ultimately, the best semi-hollow body guitar for rock music will depend on the individual player's preferences and playing style. It's always a good idea to try out a few different models to see which one feels and sounds best for you.
What are the differences between a semi hollow body guitar and a fully hollow body guitar?
Semi-hollow body guitars and fully hollow body guitars are two popular types of electric guitars. The main difference between them is the amount of hollow space inside the body of the instrument. A semi-hollow guitar has a center block of wood running through the middle of the body, which reduces feedback and increases sustain. The sides and top of the guitar are still hollow, allowing for a rich, resonant tone.
On the other hand, a fully hollow body guitar has no center block and is completely hollow, making it more prone to feedback. The lack of a center block also gives the guitar a more acoustic-like sound, with a pronounced resonance and sustain.
Another difference between the two types of guitars is their weight and size. Semi-hollow guitars are generally lighter and smaller than fully hollow body guitars, making them more comfortable to play for longer periods of time.
Ultimately, the choice between a semi-hollow body guitar and a fully hollow body guitar comes down to personal preference and the desired sound. If you want a guitar that can handle high-gain distortion without feedback, a semi-hollow body guitar may be the better choice. However, if you're looking for a warm, acoustic-like tone, a fully hollow body guitar may be the way to go.
What are the key features to look for in a high-quality semi hollow body guitar?
When it comes to selecting a high-quality semi-hollow body guitar, there are a few key features to consider. Firstly, the tonewoods used in the construction of the guitar are crucial. A great semi-hollow body guitar should feature high-quality tonewoods that deliver a warm, resonant, and balanced tone. Maple and mahogany are two popular options for the body, while the neck may be made of maple or mahogany.
Secondly, the hardware and electronics on the guitar should be top-notch. Look for a guitar with high-quality pickups, as they will have a significant impact on the guitar's sound. The bridge, tuners, and nut should all be durable and well-made.
Lastly, the build quality of the guitar is essential. A high-quality semi-hollow body guitar will have excellent craftsmanship and attention to detail. Check for any flaws or imperfections in the finish and make sure the guitar feels comfortable and well-balanced when playing.
Overall, a great semi-hollow body guitar should feature high-quality tonewoods, top-notch hardware and electronics, and excellent build quality. Take the time to research and try out different models to find the perfect guitar for your needs.
What is the price range for a high-quality semi hollow body guitar?
The price range for a high-quality semi-hollow body guitar can vary depending on the brand, features, and materials used. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $5000 for a semi-hollow body guitar.
In the lower price range, you can find some great options from brands such as Epiphone, Ibanez, and Gretsch. These guitars typically have laminate tops and backs, and may not have the same level of craftsmanship and attention to detail as more expensive models.
Moving up in price, you can find semi-hollow body guitars from renowned brands such as Gibson, PRS, and Collings. These guitars often feature high-quality tonewoods, impeccable craftsmanship, and top-of-the-line hardware and electronics. Prices in this range can easily exceed $3000 or more.
Ultimately, the price you pay for a high-quality semi-hollow body guitar will depend on your budget and personal preferences. It's important to do your research and try out different models before making a purchase to ensure you're getting the best value for your money.
