Best Semi Hollow Electric Guitars (2024 Update)
If you're looking for the perfect semi-hollow electric guitar, you're in luck. These guitars offer the best of both worlds, with the warm, resonant sound of a hollow body combined with the solid construction and easy playability of an electric guitar. However, with so many options out there, it can be difficult to know which one to choose.
First and foremost, readers should consider their budget and level of experience. It's important to find a guitar that fits both your skill level and your budget. Additionally, readers should consider the style of music they'll be playing, as different guitars have different tonal qualities that might lend themselves better to certain genres. Other factors to consider include the type of wood used in the construction, the type of pickups, and the overall build quality.
Are you a seasoned guitarist looking to upgrade your sound? Or a beginner looking for a reliable and affordable option? Do you prefer bright, twangy tones or deep, mellow sounds? Whatever your preferences, there's a semi-hollow electric guitar out there for you. Keep reading to learn more about the best options on the market, and find the guitar that's perfect for your unique playing style and budget. With the right guitar, you'll be on your way to creating beautiful music in no time.
10 Best Semi Hollow Electric Guitars
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Ideal for professional guitarists seeking a high-quality hollow body electric guitar with a distinctive sound and stylish design.
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Ideal for musicians who want a rich, resonant sound and the ability to play both rhythm and lead on a 12-string guitar.
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Ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality semi-hollow body guitar with a warm tone and versatile sound.
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Ideal for musicians in need of a versatile and high-quality semi-hollow electric guitar with a stop-bar tailpiece.
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5
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It is ideal for musicians who desire a high-quality semi-hollow electric guitar in a sleek, black gloss finish.
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6
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The product is ideal for electric guitar players looking for a semi-hollow body with a unique stairstep tailpiece and matte finish.
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7
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The product is ideal for musicians who want a semi-hollow body electric guitar with a black glossy finish.
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8
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This product bundle is ideal for beginners looking to learn and play semi-hollow electric guitar with necessary accessories.
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This product is ideal for musicians who want a high-quality, semi-hollow electric guitar with a bold orange finish.
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10
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Ideal for professional guitarists looking for a versatile, semi-hollow electric guitar with high-end features and a classic aesthetic.
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1. George Benson's Signature Hollow Body Guitar
The Ibanez GB10SE is a signature model electric guitar that offers high-quality craftsmanship and affordability for the working musician. This guitar is inspired by the popularity of George Benson’s GB10 signature model and has been designed to meet the exacting demands of professional artists.
The GB10SE is part of the highly regarded Artstar Series and retains many of the same features and appointments of its more expensive predecessor. The guitar's comfortably sized, narrower, hollow body is made with a spruce top and maple back and sides. The neck is a strong and smooth GB 3-piece maple set-in, which provides exceptional stability and sustain.
One of the standout features of the GB10SE is its ebony bridge, which provides a warm and resonant tone. The guitar also comes equipped with the same eye-catching GB10 tailpiece found on its more expensive sibling. This tailpiece not only looks great but also contributes to the guitar's overall sustain and tone.
The GB10SE is fitted with half-bone/half-brass nut and Sure Grip III control knobs, which provide excellent playability and control. The guitar's GB Special mini-humbuckers deliver a clear and balanced tone that is perfect for a wide range of musical styles.
This guitar comes complete with a hardshell case, which provides excellent protection during transport and storage. The case is designed to fit the guitar perfectly and features a plush interior to keep the guitar safe and secure.
2. Ibanez Artcore As7312 12-String Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar Transparent Red
Introducing the AS Artcore-12, a beautifully crafted electric guitar that is sure to impress any musician looking for a high-quality instrument. The guitar boasts a set-in neck, which provides excellent stability and sustain, allowing for smooth playability and a rich, full-bodied sound.
Crafted with a maple top, back, and sides, the AS Artcore-12 offers a striking appearance that is both sleek and stylish. The medium frets and bound rosewood fretboard provide a comfortable playing experience, giving the musician complete control over their sound. The pearl dot inlay adds a touch of elegance to the guitar, making it a true work of art.
Equipped with an ART-12 bridge, the AS Artcore-12 delivers a balanced and responsive tone that is perfect for a wide range of musical genres. The ACH1 neck pickup and ACH2 bridge pickup provide exceptional sound quality, offering the musician a range of tonal options to explore.
The guitar features individual volume and tone controls with a 3-way pickup selector, allowing the musician to fine-tune their sound and explore different tonal options. This level of flexibility makes it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced guitar players.
Please note that the case is sold separately, but it is highly recommended to protect this beautiful instrument. Overall, the AS Artcore-12 is a high-quality electric guitar that is sure to exceed your expectations.
3. Ibanez As93fml Artcore Expressionist Semi-Hollow Body Violin Sunburst
The guitar being presented boasts an impressive set of features that would delight any guitar enthusiast. Its bridge type is the Gibraltar Performer which provides not only rich sustain but also excellent tuning stability. The maple neck provides a rich mid-low end, and great resonance being a 3-piece Nyatoh/Maple Neck. The fretboard is made of Macassar Ebony which produces tight lows and mid-range. The tailpiece is the Quik Change III tailpiece which enables faster and easier string changing. The pickups are Super 58 pickups which feature moderate output and vintage tone.
The guitar's bridge type is the Gibraltar Performer bridge which is known for its ability to provide rich sustain and tuning stability. This means that the notes produced by this guitar will be able to ring out longer and stay in tune even after extended play. The maple neck is a 3-piece Nyatoh/Maple Neck which is able to provide a rich mid-low end and great resonance. This means that the guitar will produce a warm and full sound that is pleasing to the ear. The fretboard is made of Macassar Ebony which is known for producing tight lows and mid-range. This means that the guitar will be able to produce a well-rounded sound that is both clear and crisp.
The tailpiece is the Quik Change III tailpiece which enables faster and easier string changing. This means that the guitar can be quickly and easily restringed, allowing for more time to be spent playing and less time spent on maintenance. The pickups are Super 58 pickups which feature moderate output and vintage tone. This means that the guitar will be able to produce a classic and timeless sound that is pleasing to the ear.
4. D'angelico Premier Dc Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar W/ Stop-Bar Tailpiece – Ocean Turquoise
The Premier Series from D’Angelico showcases their proprietary humbuckers, which are crafted to produce a rich, balanced output that pairs perfectly with each model in the series. The classic Cream Binding adds a touch of vintage charm to the design, making it a timeless addition to any musician's collection.
D’Angelico and D'Addario have collaborated to create Electrozinc strings, which come pre-strung on every Premier Series model. These strings deliver exceptional longevity and tone, ensuring that your instrument will sound great for years to come.
The Premier Series models are equipped with chrome hardware, which adds a sleek and modern touch to the overall aesthetic of the series. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musician, the Premier Series from D’Angelico is sure to impress with its impressive sound quality and stunning design.
Investing in a Premier Series model from D’Angelico means that you'll be able to enjoy the rich, balanced sound that their proprietary humbuckers provide, along with the vintage charm of the Cream Binding. The Electrozinc strings are designed to last, so you can focus on playing your music without worrying about the quality of your instrument. With chrome hardware and a modern design, the Premier Series is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a high-quality guitar that looks as good as it sounds.
5. Hagstrom Viking Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar – Black Gloss
Introducing a sleek and versatile guitar with a Tune-O-Matic bridge system and humbucker pickup configuration – perfect for any musician looking to elevate their sound. This 6-string guitar is designed for right-handed players and features a laminated-wood body, which offers both durability and a classic aesthetic.
The guitar's Tune-O-Matic bridge system provides superior tuning stability and allows for effortless string changes. Meanwhile, the humbucker pickup configuration delivers a rich, full-bodied sound that is perfect for a variety of genres, including rock, blues, and metal.
Crafted with the utmost attention to detail, this guitar also boasts a Resinator fretboard, which is made from a unique composite material that mimics the feel and tone of traditional wood fretboards. The Nickel strings provide a bright and clear tone, perfect for both lead and rhythm playing.
6. D'angelico Deluxe Dc Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar W/ Stairstep Tailpiece – Matte Midnight
The Deluxe Collection boasts an improved tone and richer sound, thanks to its new custom Seymour Duncan humbuckers. These humbuckers are specially designed to enhance the mid-range, resulting in a more crystalline and full sound that is sure to impress any audiophile.
With a six-way switch, this guitar offers maximum tonal options, allowing players to share their humbuckers, isolate either one, turn either into a single-coil pickup, or share both single-coils. This feature ensures that players have complete control over their sound and can customize it to their liking.
The guitar's thicker wire delivers more tone and resonance, thanks to Jescar's high-quality materials. This feature enhances the overall sound quality and ensures that every note is heard clearly.
Designed for players of all skill levels, the Deluxe Collection features a slim C-shape neck that provides supreme playability without any wrist-ache. This neck shape is comfortable to hold and makes it easy to play even the most complex chords and riffs.
7. Hagstrom Tremar Viking Deluxe Semi-Hollow Body Electric Guitar – Black Gloss
This electric guitar boasts of easy playability and a thin neck that allows for effortless movement across frets. The contoured flamed maple body with a maple set neck adds to the overall comfort and aesthetic appeal of the instrument. The guitar also features custom pickups that deliver a unique and versatile sound.
The finishes of this guitar are truly stunning, available in a range of beautiful colors and patterns that will surely complement any musician's personal style. Its 24.75 inch scale length and 3-way toggle allow for a variety of tonal options and flexibility in playing styles.
8. Artcore Bundle: Semi-Hollow Guitar & Accessories
The Ibanez AS53 Artcore Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar Bundle offers musicians a complete package for honing their skills and exploring new sounds. The bundle includes an AS53 Artcore Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar in Flat Transparent Black, a Debut 10E Practice Amp, an XCG4 Tripod Guitar Stand in black, a 10-foot Right Angle Instrument Cable, a Concise Approach to Learning and Playing with CD, and a pack of Standard .88mm Green Guitar Picks (12-Pack).
The AS53 Artcore Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar is a versatile instrument that offers the best of both worlds. Musicians can enjoy the purity of an old-school style jazz-box, while also experimenting with the hybrid semi-hollow rocker sound. This guitar is perfect for a diverse range of genres, including blues, country, rock, and jazz.
One of the standout features of the Artcore is its combination of quality workmanship and affordability. The guitar is crafted with a double-cutaway body featuring a solid and resonant Sapele top, back, and sides. The 22-fret set mahogany neck with bound rosewood fretboard is satin-smooth and delivers sweet sustain, perfect for long jam sessions.
The AS53 Artcore is also equipped with Infinity R pickups, which offer warm, balanced articulation and excellent response for various music genres. Whether you're playing clean jazz chords or distorted rock riffs, these pickups are up to the task.
Additionally, the bundle includes a Debut 10E Practice Amp, which provides a great sound for practicing at home or in small venues. The XCG4 Tripod Guitar Stand is perfect for displaying or storing your guitar, while the 10-foot Right Angle Instrument Cable allows for easy connectivity. The Concise Approach to Learning and Playing with CD offers a comprehensive guide to mastering guitar playing, and the Standard .88mm Green Guitar Picks (12-Pack) provide the perfect touch and feel for any player.
9. Taylor Guitars Jb-T3 Semi Hollow Electric Guitar, Orange
Introducing a top-quality guitar with exquisite craftsmanship – the Sapele wood body and Maple top guitar with a Bigsby vibrato. This guitar is designed to deliver exceptional performance and sound quality, making it the perfect choice for both beginners and professional guitarists.
Crafted from high-quality Sapele wood, the body of this guitar delivers a rich and warm tone that is both balanced and full-bodied. The Maple top adds a touch of clarity and brightness to the overall sound, resulting in a harmonious blend that is sure to captivate any audience.
The Bigsby vibrato system on this guitar allows for smooth and effortless bending of notes, providing a unique and dynamic sound that is sure to impress. Whether you're playing blues, rock or jazz, this guitar's vibrato system will help you achieve the perfect sound.
With a 24.86-inch scale length, this guitar is easy to play and perfect for both lead and rhythm playing. The Shape T3/B Body Shape with Venetian Cutaway design allows for easy access to the upper frets, making it ideal for playing solos and lead lines.
10. Epiphone Sheraton Ii Pro Semi-Hollowbody Guitar (Ebony Gold Hardware)
The Sheraton-II PRO is a top-of-the-line guitar that boasts a stunning design and exceptional sound quality. It features a body made of laminated Maple back and sides, as well as a laminated Maple top, which gives it a classic, timeless look. The neck is made of a 5-piece Hard Maple/Walnut laminate and has a '60s Slim Taper profile, which makes it a joy to play.
The guitar's set neck is complemented by a Rosewood fingerboard that features pearloid and abalone/block and triangle inlays, adding to its aesthetic appeal. The Graphtech NuBone XL nut and medium jumbo frets ensure a smooth, comfortable playing experience.
The Sheraton-II PRO is equipped with ProBucker 2 and 3 pickups, which provide a rich, warm tone that is perfect for a wide range of genres. The Neck and Bridge Volume knobs also feature coil taps, which allow players to switch between single-coil and humbucking pickups, giving them even more versatility. The Lock Tone Tune-o-matic bridge and Stop Bar Tailpiece keep the guitar in tune and provide excellent sustain.
Best Semi Hollow Electric Guitars FAQs
How do different types of pickups affect the sound of semi-hollow electric guitars?
The type of pickup installed in a semi-hollow electric guitar can have a significant impact on its overall sound. There are different types of pickups available in the market, including single-coil, humbucker, P-90, and more.
Single-coil pickups produce a bright, clear, and articulate sound, making them ideal for playing clean and twangy styles of music. On the other hand, humbucker pickups are known for their warm and thick tone, which is suitable for playing blues, rock, and heavy metal music.
P-90 pickups are a mix of both single-coil and humbucker pickups, producing a bright and punchy sound with a little bit of grit. Other types of pickups, such as mini-humbuckers or Filtertron pickups, also offer unique tonal characteristics.
In general, the type of pickup installed in a semi-hollow guitar will impact the guitar's overall sound and tonal characteristics. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the style of music you want to play.
How do semi-hollow electric guitars differ from solid body or hollow body electric guitars?
Semi-hollow electric guitars, as the name suggests, are a hybrid between solid body and hollow body electric guitars. They have a solid block of wood running through the center of the guitar's body, with hollow chambers on either side. This design gives the semi-hollow guitar a unique sound that combines the sustain and feedback resistance of a solid body guitar with the warm, resonant tones of a hollow body guitar.
Compared to solid body guitars, semi-hollow guitars have a more open and natural tone, with increased resonance and a slightly rounder attack. They are also more prone to feedback at higher volumes due to their hollow chambers. On the other hand, semi-hollow guitars are generally lighter and more comfortable to play for extended periods of time.
Compared to hollow body guitars, semi-hollow guitars have less resonance and sustain, but are still capable of producing warm, rich tones. They also have less feedback issues compared to fully hollow guitars, making them more suitable for high-volume playing situations.
Ultimately, the choice between a semi-hollow, solid body, or hollow body guitar comes down to personal preference and playing style.
How does the shape of a semi-hollow electric guitar affect its sound and playability?
The shape of a semi-hollow electric guitar can have a significant impact on both its sound and playability. Semi-hollow guitars typically have a thinner body than solid-body electric guitars, which can make them more comfortable to play for extended periods. Additionally, the semi-hollow body design can produce a warmer, more resonant sound than solid-body guitars, thanks to the way the sound waves bounce around inside the body.
The shape of the guitar can also affect its balance and weight distribution. A well-designed semi-hollow guitar will have a balanced weight distribution that makes it easy to play both standing up and sitting down. The cutaway design of the guitar can also affect its playability, making it easier to reach higher frets.
Overall, the shape of a semi-hollow electric guitar can have a significant impact on its sound and playability. It's important to choose a guitar with a shape that feels comfortable and natural to play, while also producing the desired sound and tone.
What are some of the most popular brands of semi-hollow electric guitars?
Semi-hollow electric guitars have become increasingly popular among guitar players due to their versatility and unique tonal characteristics. Some of the most popular brands of semi-hollow electric guitars include Gibson, Epiphone, Ibanez, Gretsch, and PRS.
Gibson is known for its iconic ES-335, which has been played by legendary guitarists such as B.B. King, Chuck Berry, and Eric Clapton. Epiphone, on the other hand, offers affordable versions of Gibson's semi-hollow models, such as the Dot and the Sheraton.
Ibanez offers a wide range of semi-hollow guitars, including the Artcore series, which is popular among jazz and blues players. Gretsch is known for its unique designs, such as the Electromatic and the Streamliner, which have gained popularity in rockabilly and alternative rock genres.
Finally, PRS offers high-end semi-hollow guitars, such as the Hollowbody II and the P22, which are favored by many professional players. Each brand has its own unique features and characteristics, catering to the different preferences of guitar players.
What are the best semi-hollow electric guitars available on the market today?
There are many great semi-hollow electric guitars available on the market today. Some of the most popular and highly regarded options include the Gibson ES-335, the Epiphone Sheraton II, the Ibanez AS93, the Gretsch G5420T, and the PRS SE Custom 22 Semi-Hollow.
The Gibson ES-335 is a classic model that has been used by countless guitarists over the years, known for its warm and rich tone. The Epiphone Sheraton II is a more affordable option that offers a similar sound and feel to the ES-335. The Ibanez AS93 is a versatile guitar with a modern feel and a range of tonal options. The Gretsch G5420T is a stylish and distinctive guitar with a unique sound that is well-suited to rockabilly and other styles. Finally, the PRS SE Custom 22 Semi-Hollow is a high-quality guitar with a comfortable neck and a wide range of sounds.
Ultimately, the best semi-hollow electric guitar for you will depend on your personal preferences and playing style. It is important to try out several different models and find the one that feels and sounds right for you.
What are the pros and cons of different types of semi-hollow electric guitar body materials?
When it comes to semi-hollow electric guitar body materials, there are several options available to choose from. Each material has its own set of pros and cons that impact the tone, weight, and overall feel of the guitar.
One popular material is maple, which is known for its bright and clear tone. Maple is also a durable and stable wood that can withstand heavy playing. However, it can be heavy and may not be suitable for players who prefer a lighter guitar.
Another popular option is mahogany, which is known for its warm and rich tone. Mahogany is also a lightweight wood that is comfortable to play for extended periods. However, it may not have the same level of sustain as other materials and can be prone to dings and scratches.
A third option is ash, which is known for its bright and snappy tone. Ash is also a lightweight wood that is suitable for players who prefer a fast and responsive guitar. However, it may not have the same level of warmth as other materials and can be prone to dents and scratches.
Ultimately, the choice of semi-hollow electric guitar body material depends on personal preference and playing style. It's important to consider factors such as tone, weight, durability, and playability when choosing the right material for your guitar.
What features should you look for in a high-quality semi-hollow electric guitar?
When it comes to semi-hollow electric guitars, there are a few features that you should look for to ensure that you are getting a high-quality instrument. Firstly, the quality of the wood used in the construction of the guitar is crucial. High-quality semi-hollow electric guitars are typically made with a solid wood center block and laminated top and back, which provide better sustain and tone.
Next, the pickups are also essential to consider. Look for pickups that are versatile and offer a wide range of sounds, such as humbuckers or P-90s. Additionally, the hardware on the guitar should be of high quality, including tuners, bridge, and tailpiece, to ensure proper tuning stability and sustain.
The neck of the guitar should also be comfortable and easy to play, with a smooth finish and good fretwork. Finally, consider the overall aesthetic of the guitar, including its finish, design, and brand reputation. With these features in mind, you can ensure that you are investing in a high-quality semi-hollow electric guitar that will last for years to come.
What is the price range for high-quality semi-hollow electric guitars?
The price range for high-quality semi-hollow electric guitars varies depending on the brand, model, and features. Typically, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $3000 for a well-made semi-hollow electric guitar. Entry-level models from reputable brands like Epiphone and Gretsch can be found for around $500, while top-of-the-line models from brands like Gibson and PRS can be priced upwards of $3000.
Factors that can affect the price of a semi-hollow electric guitar include the quality and type of wood used for the body and neck, the type of pickups and electronics, the hardware and tuning machines, and any additional features such as binding, inlays, or custom finishes. It's important to balance your budget with the overall quality and features you desire in a semi-hollow electric guitar. Ultimately, investing in a high-quality instrument can make a significant difference in your playing experience and the overall sound of your music.
What makes a semi-hollow electric guitar a good choice for certain genres of music?
Semi-hollow electric guitars are a popular choice for musicians who play certain genres of music due to their unique sound and versatility. One of the main reasons why semi-hollow electric guitars are a good choice for certain genres of music is their ability to produce a warm, rich tone that is ideal for genres such as jazz, blues, and rockabilly. The semi-hollow body design of the guitar allows for a resonant, open sound that is perfect for clean tones and subtle nuances.
Additionally, semi-hollow electric guitars are also great for playing with distortion and overdrive, making them a popular choice for rock and alternative music. The hollow design of the guitar provides a natural sustain that enhances the sound of distortion and adds depth to the overall tone.
Overall, semi-hollow electric guitars are a great choice for musicians who want a versatile instrument that can produce a wide range of tones. Whether you're playing clean jazz or high-gain rock, a semi-hollow electric guitar is a great choice for achieving the sound you're looking for.
What types of strings are best for semi-hollow electric guitars?
When it comes to choosing the right strings for your semi-hollow electric guitar, there are a few factors to consider. Generally, lighter gauge strings are preferred for semi-hollow guitars as they are easier to play and produce a brighter tone. However, the specific type of strings you choose can also have an impact on the sound and playability of your guitar.
For semi-hollow electric guitars, round wound strings are typically the best option. These strings have a brighter tone and more sustain than flat wound strings, which can make your semi-hollow guitar sound more alive. However, some players prefer the smoother feel of flat wound strings, which can also produce a warmer, more mellow tone.
Ultimately, the best type of strings for your semi-hollow electric guitar will depend on your personal preferences and playing style. Experimenting with different gauges and types of strings can help you find the perfect fit for your instrument.
