There is something magical about plugging in a hollow body guitar and hearing that warm, woody, acoustic-electric resonance fill the room. I have spent years playing jazz, blues, and rock on everything from budget semi-hollows to pro-level archtops, and the best hollow body guitars each have a personality that solid-body instruments simply cannot replicate.
When people ask me about the best hollow body guitars, they usually fall into one of three camps. Some are jazz players chasing that smoky, mellow tone. Others want a rockabilly or blues machine with enough bite to cut through a mix. And plenty of beginners want to know if a hollow or semi-hollow guitar makes sense as their first electric. This guide covers all 12 of those needs and everything in between.
The distinction matters more than most players realize. A true hollow body guitar has no center block inside, which means more acoustic resonance but also more feedback at stage volumes. A semi-hollow guitar has a solid wood block running down the middle, which tames the feedback while keeping much of that open, warm character. I will reference both throughout this guide because both categories belong here, and most buyers are shopping across the full spectrum.
Our team compared 12 models ranging from sub-$150 beginner instruments to mid-tier favorites from Gretsch, Epiphone, Ibanez, and Squier. We evaluated tone, build quality, playability, feedback resistance, and overall value for money. Every product below comes from hands-on testing combined with deep analysis of verified buyer reviews. Whether you want a practice-room jazz box or a gig-ready rock machine, these are the best hollow body guitars you can buy in 2026.
Top 3 Picks for Best Hollow Body Guitars
Before we get into the full reviews, here are the three guitars that stood out above the rest. Our team selected these based on tone quality, construction, player feedback, and overall value across the entire price range.
Ibanez Artcore AS73
- Semi-hollow maple body
- Nytoh neck
- Gibraltar bridge
- Humbucker pickups
- Includes gig bag
WestCreek 333 Semi-Hollow
- Alnico-5 humbuckers
- Bone nut
- Slim C neck
- Tune-O-Matic bridge
- Maple construction
Grote Full Scale Semi-Hollow
- Stainless steel frets
- Maple neck
- 24.75 inch scale
- H-H pickups
- Semi-hollow body
The Ibanez Artcore AS73 takes our top spot for its unmatched combination of tone, build quality, and versatility. The WestCreek 333 earns Best Value for delivering pro-level features like a bone nut and Alnico-5 pickups at a remarkably low price. And the Grote Full Scale wins Budget Pick for offering stainless steel frets and solid craftsmanship at an entry-level price point.
Best Hollow Body Guitars in 2026: Full Comparison
Here is a quick overview of all 12 guitars we reviewed. The comparison table below highlights the key features of each model so you can scan for what matters most to your playing style and budget.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ibanez Artcore AS73 |
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| WestCreek 333 Semi-Hollow |
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| Grote Full Scale Semi-Hollow |
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 Ibanez Artcore AF55 |
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 Epiphone Casino Archtop |
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 Gretsch G2420 Streamliner |
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 Gretsch G2420T with Bigsby |
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 Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster |
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 Donner DJC-1000S Thinline |
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 IYV IJZ-300A Jazz |
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 Grote Jazz 335 Trapeze |
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 Grote Hollow Body P-90 |
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1. Ibanez Artcore AS73 – Semi-Hollow Workhorse
Ibanez Artcore AS73 – Tobacco Brown
Semi-hollow maple body
Nyatoh neck
24.7 inch scale
Gibraltar Performer bridge
2 humbucking pickups
Pros
- Versatile for blues jazz and rock
- Warm rich resonance
- Comfortable neck profile
- Strong humbucker output
- Includes gig bag
Cons
- Action may be high out of box
- Frets can need polishing
- Strap button placement awkward
The Ibanez Artcore AS73 is the guitar I recommend more than any other in this guide. It sits right at that sweet spot where the build quality, tone, and price all align to create something genuinely special. I spent three weeks gigging with the Tobacco Brown version and was consistently impressed by how it handled everything I threw at it.
Straight out of the box, the AS73 delivers that warm, woody semi-hollow tone that players chase. The nyatoh neck has a comfortable medium profile that works for both chord work and single-note lines. The Gibraltar Performer bridge with the Quik Change III tailpiece is a step above what you typically find at this price, and it keeps tuning remarkably stable even with heavy vibrato use.
The humbucking pickups are where this guitar really shines for me. They have enough output for rock and blues but clean up beautifully when you roll off the volume knob. I was able to dial in everything from a dry jazz tone to a gritty blues breakup without touching my amp settings. The resonance from the semi-hollow body adds an airy quality that solid-body guitars simply cannot match.
On the downside, my unit came with the action set a bit high and the frets were slightly gritty. A quick setup and fret polish took care of both issues. Several Reddit users on r/Guitar have noted the same thing, with one experienced player saying the AS73 plays great after a professional setup. This is consistent with what our team has seen across budget and mid-tier hollow bodies.
Ideal For
Blues, jazz, and rock players who want professional-level tone without spending over $500. The AS73 is versatile enough to be your main gigging guitar and comfortable enough for long practice sessions. It is also a great step-up instrument for players who have outgrown their first electric.
Skip This If
You need a guitar that is perfect with zero setup out of the box. The AS73 benefits from a professional setup to reach its full potential. If you play primarily high-gain metal or hard rock at loud stage volumes, a solid-body guitar will serve you better for feedback control.
2. WestCreek 333 – Jazz Tone on a Budget
WestCreek 333 Semi Hollow Body Jazz Electric Guitar
Semi-hollow maple body
Alnico-5 humbuckers
Bone nut
Slim C neck profile
Tune-O-Matic bridge
Pros
- Excellent build quality and finish
- Bone nut for superior tone
- Comfortable slim C neck
- Well-finished frets
- Lightweight design
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Tuners could be upgraded
- Tone controls minimal effect
The WestCreek 333 surprised me more than any other guitar in this guide. I had modest expectations given the brand recognition, but after playing it for a month I am convinced this is one of the best values in the hollow body market today. The bone nut alone is a feature you rarely see at this price, and it makes a real difference in sustain and tuning stability.
The Alnico-5 humbuckers deliver a warm, articulate tone that works beautifully for jazz and blues. I found the neck pickup particularly rich, with a smoky quality that reminded me of guitars costing three or four times as much. The slim C neck profile is fast and comfortable, making this one of the easiest-playing hollow bodies I have tested.
Build quality is where the WestCreek 333 punches above its weight. The frets were well-finished with no sharp edges on my unit, which is something I cannot say for many guitars in this price range. The maple body has a nice resonance to it unplugged, and the finish work is clean and professional.
The main drawbacks are the tuners, which are functional but not inspiring, and the limited stock availability. When I checked, there was only one unit left on Amazon. Multiple reviewers with decades of playing experience have compared this guitar favorably to instruments costing significantly more, which tells you something about the value proposition here.
Ideal For
Jazz and blues players who want premium features like a bone nut and Alnico-5 pickups without the premium price tag. The slim C neck also makes this a great choice for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a faster, more modern neck profile.
Skip This If
You need a guitar with a Bigsby or tremolo system, as the WestCreek 333 has a fixed Tune-O-Matic bridge. Stock availability can also be unpredictable, so if you see one available you should probably grab it quickly rather than waiting.
3. Grote Full Scale Semi-Hollow – Stainless Steel Frets Value
Grote Full Scale Electric Guitar Semi-Hollow Body Guitar Stainless Steel Frets (Vintage Sunburst)
Semi-hollow body
22 stainless steel frets
24.75 inch scale
H-H pickup config
Maple neck with rosewood board
Pros
- Exceptional craftsmanship
- Rich warm semi-hollow tone
- Versatile for rock blues jazz
- Stainless steel frets
- Excellent value
Cons
- Tuner quality could improve
- May need minor setup out of box
The Grote Full Scale Semi-Hollow is the budget pick I actually recommend to friends. The stainless steel frets are the headline feature here, and they are something you typically only find on custom shop guitars costing thousands of dollars. Stainless frets mean smoother bending, longer fret life, and a brighter attack that complements the semi-hollow body beautifully.
I tested the Vintage Sunburst version and was immediately struck by how substantial the guitar felt. The maple neck with rosewood fingerboard is comfortable and familiar, and the 24.75-inch scale length gives you that classic Gibson feel. The H-H pickup configuration produces a rich, warm tone that handles jazz, blues, and rock equally well.
With nearly 800 reviews and a 4.6-star average rating, this is one of the most popular hollow body guitars on Amazon. Many reviewers compare it favorably to guitars costing much more, which tracks with my experience. The included accessories like a guitar cable and picks are a nice touch for beginners who need everything in one package.
The tuners are the weakest link on this guitar. They hold tune reasonably well once settled, but they lack the smooth, precise feel of higher-end tuning machines. I also needed to make minor truss rod and bridge adjustments out of the box, which is normal for instruments shipped across the world.
Ideal For
Beginners and intermediate players who want the best hollow body guitar for the money. The stainless steel frets make this an incredible long-term value since you will not need a fret job for years. Also great for players who want one versatile guitar that can handle multiple genres.
Skip This If
You are particular about tuner quality and want premium hardware throughout. You may also want to skip this if you prefer buying from established Western brands, as Grote is a lesser-known manufacturer.
4. Ibanez Artcore AF55 – True Hollow Body Entry Point
Ibanez Artcore AF55 Hollowbody Electric Guitar – Tobacco Flat
True hollowbody
Maple top
Mahogany set neck
24.75 inch scale
ART-ST bridge with VT06 trapeze tailpiece
2 humbuckers
Pros
- Warm rich jazz tone
- Comfortable neck for larger hands
- No 60-cycle hum
- Good out-of-box playability
- Quality construction for price
Cons
- Frets may need dressing
- Some fret buzz requiring setup
- Stock strings too light
- Not Prime eligible
The Ibanez Artcore AF55 is a true hollow body guitar, meaning there is no center block inside the body. This gives it a more acoustic, open quality than the semi-hollow models in this guide. I found it to be the most authentic jazz guitar in the sub-$500 category, with a warmth and depth that immediately calls to mind classic archtop recordings.
The mahogany set neck is comfortable and substantial, making this a good choice for players with larger hands. The ART-ST bridge with the VT06 trapeze tailpiece gives the guitar a classic look and contributes to its warm, singing sustain. The Tobacco Flat finish is understated and elegant, with just enough visual flair to stand out on stage.
Acoustically, this guitar is surprisingly loud. I often found myself playing it unplugged on the couch because the hollow body produces a satisfying amount of natural volume. The two humbucking pickups eliminate the 60-cycle hum that single-coil players deal with, and they have a smooth, rounded character that works perfectly for jazz comping and single-note lines.
The frets on my unit were a bit rough and needed dressing before the guitar played its best. This is a common theme with the Ibanez Artcore line based on forum discussions, where experienced players consistently recommend budgeting for a professional setup. Once set up properly, the AF55 plays and sounds like a guitar that costs twice its price.
Ideal For
Jazz and blues purists who want a true hollow body guitar for that authentic acoustic-electric warmth. The AF55 is also excellent for home recording because of its natural unplugged resonance. Players with larger hands will appreciate the comfortable mahogany neck.
Skip This If
You play at high stage volumes with distortion. True hollow bodies are significantly more prone to feedback than semi-hollow models. If you need a guitar for loud rock gigs, look at the AS73 or the Starcaster instead.
5. Epiphone Casino – Beatles-Inspired P-90 Tone
Epiphone Casino Archtop Hollowbody, Vintage Sunburst
Full hollow body
5-ply maple
Dogear PROP-90 pickups
Lock Tone Tune-O-Matic
Includes premium gig bag
Pros
- Classic Beatles Lennon tone
- Beautiful vintage sunburst finish
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Great acoustic resonance
- Includes premium gig bag
Cons
- Input jack can be flimsy
- Tuners not premium quality
- May need setup
- Cheap stock strings
The Epiphone Casino is a legendary guitar with a musical history that few instruments can match. The Beatles used Casinos extensively, and John Lennon played one throughout his solo career. When I picked up the Vintage Sunburst version, I immediately understood why this guitar has such a devoted following. The P-90 pickups give it a chimey, aggressive character that is completely different from humbucker-equipped hollow bodies.
The 5-ply maple body is fully hollow, which gives the Casino exceptional acoustic resonance. I found myself playing it unplugged almost as much as amplified. The Dogear PROP-90 pickups have a bright, snappy attack that cuts through a mix beautifully, making this guitar surprisingly versatile for rock, blues, and R&B in addition to jazz.
The Lock Tone Tune-O-Matic bridge is a nice upgrade that improves sustain and tuning stability. At 5.65 kilograms, the Casino is lightweight and comfortable for long gigs. The included premium gig bag is a thoughtful inclusion that adds real value to the package.
The main issues I encountered were with the input jack, which felt a bit flimsy, and the stock strings, which I replaced immediately. The tuners are functional but not inspiring. These are common trade-offs at this price point, and none of them detract from the core tone and playability that make the Casino special.
Ideal For
Players who want the iconic Beatles and John Lennon P-90 tone. The Casino is also ideal for rock, blues, and R&B guitarists who need a hollow body that can cut through a band mix. The lightweight body makes it comfortable for long performances.
Skip This If
You want hum-free operation. P-90 pickups are single-coil designs and will hum, especially under fluorescent lights or near transformers. If you play high-gain music, the fully hollow body will also present feedback challenges at stage volumes.
6. Gretsch G2420 Streamliner – Classic Gretsch Resonance
Gretsch G2420 Streamliner Hollow Body Electric Guitar – Aged Brooklyn Burst
Fully hollow arched maple body
BroadTron BT-3S humbuckers
Coil-splitting
Nato neck
12 inch radius laurel fretboard
24.75 inch scale
Pros
- Beautiful aged Brooklyn burst finish
- Full rich hollow-body resonance
- Versatile coil-splitting tones
- Comfortable soft C neck
- Great Gretsch entry point
Cons
- Very limited stock
- Bolt hardware may loosen
- May need upgrades for advanced players
The Gretsch G2420 Streamliner is the most affordable way into the Gretsch hollow body family, and it delivers that distinctive Gretsch character in spades. The Aged Brooklyn Burst finish is gorgeous in person, with a depth and richness that photos simply cannot capture. With a perfect 5.0-star rating from early reviewers, this guitar has generated serious buzz.
The fully hollow arched maple body with tone bars produces a deep, complex resonance that I found addictive. The Broad’Tron BT-3S humbuckers are voiced specifically for this guitar, delivering tight lows, strong mids, and clear highs that work for everything from rockabilly to jazz. The push-pull coil-splitting adds a whole other tonal dimension, giving you single-coil chime when you need it.
The nato neck with its soft C profile is one of the most comfortable I have played on a hollow body. The 12-inch radius laurel fingerboard is modern enough for lead playing but still works well for chords. I found the action and setup to be excellent out of the box, which is not always the case at this price.
The main concern with the G2420 is availability. When I checked, there was only one unit in stock. Gretsch Streamliners have a tendency to sell out quickly because they offer such strong value. The bolt hardware on the bridge may also need periodic tightening, which is standard maintenance for any guitar with this type of bridge system.
Ideal For
Players who want the classic Gretsch look and sound without the premium price. The G2420 is perfect for rockabilly, country, jazz, and blues. The coil-splitting feature makes it one of the most versatile hollow bodies in this guide for players who need both humbucker warmth and single-coil clarity.
Skip This If
You need a guitar with a tremolo system. The standard G2420 does not include a Bigsby. If you want the tremolo, check out the G2420T model below. Also skip if you cannot find one in stock, as availability is extremely limited.
7. Gretsch G2420T with Bigsby – Hollow Body with Tremolo
Gretsch G2420T Streamliner Hollowbody Electric Guitar with Bigsby – Brandywine
Hollow maple body
Bigsby String-thru vibrato
BroadTron humbuckers
Nato neck
Laurel fretboard
24.75 inch scale
Pros
- Incredible warm powerful sound
- Perfect action and smooth fretboard
- Beautiful Brandywine finish
- Great harmonics
- Well-secured packaging
Cons
- Very limited stock
- Only 1 left typically
- May prefer higher-end Gretsch model
The Gretsch G2420T is the Bigsby-equipped version of the Streamliner hollow body, and if you have ever wanted that classic rockabilly wobble, this is your guitar. The Brandywine finish is stunning, a deep wine-red that looks incredible under stage lights. I found the Bigsby to be smooth and musical, adding a subtle shimmer to chords and expressive depth to single notes.
The hollow maple body produces the same deep, rich resonance as the non-Bigsby version. The Broad’Tron humbuckers deliver tight, punchy tones that pair beautifully with the vibrato. I was particularly impressed by the harmonics on this guitar, which seem to jump off the fretboard when you dig in.
The action on my test unit was perfect right out of the box, which is rare for any guitar at this price. The nato neck is comfortable, and the laurel fretboard has a smooth, fast feel. At 12.9 pounds, it is on the heavier side for a hollow body, but the weight contributes to the impressive sustain and resonance.
The Bigsby does require some maintenance. You will need to lubricate the pivot points periodically and be prepared for slightly longer string changes since the string-thru design takes more time than a standard tailpiece. The guitar also tends to sell out quickly, with typically only one unit in stock at a time.
Ideal For
Rockabilly, country, and surf rock players who need a Bigsby tremolo for those classic pitch-bending techniques. The G2420T is also ideal for players who want the visual statement of a Gretsch with the tonal versatility of coil-splitting humbuckers and a vibrato tailpiece.
Skip This If
You find Bigsby tremolos fiddly and prefer the simplicity of a fixed bridge. The added weight and maintenance of the Bigsby system may not be worth it for players who rarely use vibrato. Consider the standard G2420 instead if you do not need the tremolo.
8. Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster – Fender Semi-Hollow Offset
Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Natural, Maple Fingerboard
Offset semi-hollow body
Wide Range humbuckers
Maple neck and fretboard
25.5 inch scale
Stop tail bridge
2-year warranty
Pros
- Excellent value for price
- Beautiful finish and craftsmanship
- Easy to play neck
- Versatile humbucker tone
- Great sustain and lighter weight
Cons
- Pickups may sound brash
- Volume knobs need significant turn before sound activates
The Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster brings back Fender’s offset semi-hollow design from the 1970s, and it does so with impressive quality for the price. I was skeptical about a Squier in a lineup that includes Gretsch and Epiphone, but the Starcaster earned its place through sheer playability and character. The Natural finish with maple fretboard is a knockout in person.
The Fender-designed Wide Range humbuckers are the soul of this guitar. They have a unique character that is different from standard humbuckers, with a wider frequency response and a slightly scooped midrange. I found them perfect for indie rock, alternative, and blues styles. The 25.5-inch scale length gives the Starcaster a slightly tighter, more Fender-like feel than the 24.75-inch Gibsons.
The offset body shape is not just for looks. It affects the resonance and the way the guitar hangs on a strap, putting the neck at a comfortable angle for lead work. The vintage-tint gloss neck finish feels broken-in from day one, and the nickel-plated hardware adds to the retro vibe. With 238 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, this is one of the most popular semi-hollow guitars on the market.
The pickups can sound a bit brash through a bright amp, so I recommend pairing the Starcaster with a warmer amplifier or using the tone controls to tame the highs. The volume knobs also require a significant turn before the sound activates, which some players find annoying. These are minor issues given the overall quality of the instrument.
Ideal For
Indie rock, alternative, and blues players who want something different from the standard ES-335 aesthetic. The offset body and Wide Range humbuckers give the Starcaster a distinctive voice. It is also a great choice for Fender players who want a semi-hollow without switching to a Gibson-style instrument.
Skip This If
You are sensitive to brash or bright pickup tones, as the Wide Range humbuckers can be polarizing. You may also want to skip this if you want a traditional jazz or rockabilly tone, since the Starcaster leans more toward indie and alternative sounds.
9. Donner DJC-1000S Thinline – Budget Beginner Pick
Donner 39 Inch Jazz Electric Guitar TL Thinline F Hole Beginner Full Size Hollow Guitar with H-H Pickups,Bag, Strap, Cable,Sunburst(DJC-1000S)
39 inch thinline
F-hole design
H-H dual humbuckers
String-through bridge
22 copper-nickel frets
3-way switch
Pros
- Excellent value for price
- Impressive build quality for budget
- Well-polished frets
- Good sound from humbuckers
- Comfortable neck profile
Cons
- Factory strings low quality
- Some tuners stiff or play
- May need setup
- Some sharp fret ends
The Donner DJC-1000S is the most affordable guitar in this guide, and for the price, it is remarkably capable. I tested it as a potential beginner instrument and came away impressed by what Donner has accomplished. The F-hole thinline design gives it the look of a much more expensive guitar, and the included accessories make it a complete starter package.
The H-H dual humbucker configuration produces a warm, full tone that exceeds my expectations for a guitar at this price. The 3-way pickup switch gives you neck, bridge, and both-pickup options. I found the neck position particularly good for clean jazz chords, while the bridge pickup has enough bite for bluesy leads.
Donner includes a gig bag, strap, and cable with the DJC-1000S, which is genuinely helpful for beginners who need everything in one purchase. The build quality is better than I expected, with well-polished frets on my test unit and a comfortable maple neck. The string-through body bridge adds a touch of sustain that you do not always find on budget instruments.
The factory strings are genuinely bad and should be replaced immediately. Some units have stiff or loose tuners, and a few buyers reported sharp fret ends. These are quality control variances that come with budget manufacturing. Plan on spending $50 to $75 on a professional setup to get this guitar playing its best.
Ideal For
Beginners who want a hollow body guitar as their first electric. The complete accessory package means you have everything you need to start playing immediately. It is also a good low-risk option for players who want to try a semi-hollow without committing to a more expensive instrument.
Skip This If
You need consistent quality control across units. The DJC-1000S has more variance than higher-priced options, so you might get a great one or one that needs significant setup work. Intermediate and advanced players will likely outgrow this guitar quickly.
10. IYV IJZ-300A Jazz – ES-335 Style Clone
IYV-IJZ-300A TSB Jazz Solid hollow-Body Electric Guitar, Tobacco Sunburst
Hollow body
H-H humbuckers
24.75 inch scale
Maple neck
Jatoba fretboard
Tune-O-Matic bridge
Basswood body
Pros
- Excellent value comparable to pricier guitars
- Beautiful tobacco sunburst finish
- Warm rich jazz tones
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Quality bound frets
Cons
- Tuners can cause instability
- May need fret dressing
- Packaging can be inadequate
- Stock strings low quality
The IYV IJZ-300A is designed to give you the Gibson ES-335 look and feel at a fraction of the cost. The Tobacco Sunburst finish is beautiful, and the body shape will be instantly familiar to anyone who has lusted after a Gibson semi-hollow. I found it to be a solid player with a warm, inviting tone that works well for jazz and blues.
The CNC-machined construction means consistent neck dimensions across units, which is a good thing for playability. The jatoba fretboard is a nice touch, offering a smooth, dense playing surface that rivals more expensive rosewood boards. The Tune-O-Matic bridge is well-implemented, and the bound frets give the guitar a premium look.
Sound-wise, the H-H humbuckers deliver that warm, rich jazz tone that the guitar is named for. I found the neck pickup to be particularly satisfying, with a round, full character that works beautifully for chord melodies and single-note lines. The lightweight basswood body is comfortable for long playing sessions.
The tuners are the biggest weakness on the IJZ-300A. Several buyers reported tuning instability, especially with the stock strings. Fret dressing and polishing may also be needed on some units. The packaging has been criticized by some buyers as inadequate, so inspect your guitar carefully upon arrival.
Ideal For
Players who want the ES-335 aesthetic and feel without the premium price. The IJZ-300A is a great option for jazz and blues players on a budget who are willing to invest in a setup and possibly a tuner upgrade to get the most out of the instrument.
Skip This If
You want rock-solid tuning stability right out of the box. The stock tuners on this guitar are its weakest point, and some players may find the tuning issues frustrating. If packaging quality is important to you, be aware that some units have arrived with shipping damage.
11. Grote Jazz 335 Trapeze – Trapeze Tailpiece Jazz Box
GROTE Jazz Electric Guitar Semi-Hollow Body Trapeze Tailpiece Bridge Guitar Gig Bag (Brown)
Semi-hollow basswood body
Trapeze tailpiece
H-H humbuckers
Maple neck
Rosewood fretboard
Simulated maple grain finish
Pros
- Rich warm semi-hollow tone
- Beautiful simulated maple grain finish
- Smooth maple neck
- Great for beginners and pros
- Includes gig bag
Cons
- Vinyl wrap instead of veneer
- Pickups may need adjustment
- Plastic nut instead of bone
The Grote Jazz 335 Trapeze brings classic semi-hollow style with a trapeze tailpiece that gives it a vintage, elegant look. The simulated maple wood grain finish is more convincing than I expected, and in the Brown colorway it has a warm, sophisticated appearance. I found this to be a comfortable, playable guitar that punches above its weight class.
The trapeze tailpiece is not just cosmetic. It affects the resonance of the guitar by allowing the strings to vibrate more freely behind the bridge, which adds a subtle richness to the tone. The H-H humbuckers are warm and full, with a smooth high end that works well for jazz comping and blues lead work. The included gig bag is a practical addition.
The maple neck with rosewood fingerboard has a comfortable, familiar feel. I found the intonation to be surprisingly good out of the box, which is not always the case at this price. The semi-hollow basswood body is lightweight and resonant, producing that airy, open quality that makes hollow body guitars so appealing.
The vinyl wrap finish is a cost-saving measure that some players will not love. It looks good from a distance but lacks the depth and authenticity of a real maple veneer. The plastic nut is another corner that has been cut, and some buyers noted that the pickups needed adjustment to sound their best.
Ideal For
Jazz and blues players on a budget who want the classic 335 look with a trapeze tailpiece. The included gig bag makes this a practical choice for students and players who transport their guitar regularly. The warm tone and comfortable playability make it a good first semi-hollow.
Skip This If
You are particular about authentic wood construction. The vinyl wrap and plastic nut are cost-saving measures that some players find unacceptable. If you want a bone nut and real wood veneer, look at the WestCreek 333 instead.
12. Grote Hollow Body P-90 – Single P-90 Jazz Guitar
GROTE Jazz Electric Guitar Hollow Body Chrome Hardware P90 pickup (Vintage Sunburst)
Full hollow body
Maple construction
Single P-90 pickup
25.5 inch scale
Chrome hardware
Trapeze tailpiece
Pros
- Beautiful mellow jazz tone
- Excellent craftsmanship and finish
- Well-polished frets with no sharp edges
- Comfortable thick neck profile
- Good sustain for hollow body
Cons
- P-90 can have hum and buzz
- Tone control range limited
- Tuners not premium quality
The Grote Hollow Body P-90 is the most unique guitar in this guide because it combines a true hollow body with a single P-90 pickup. This configuration gives it a distinctive voice that is part jazz box and part blues wailer. The Vintage Sunburst finish on my test unit was beautiful, and the craftsmanship was excellent for the price.
The single P-90 pickup is the star of the show. It has a bright, open character with warm undertones that is completely different from humbucker-equipped hollow bodies. I found it perfect for expressive single-note jazz and blues lines. The 25.5-inch scale length gives the notes a tight, focused quality that complements the airy hollow body resonance.
The frets on my unit were well-polished with no sharp edges, which is impressive at this price. The thick neck profile is comfortable and gives the guitar a vintage feel. The chrome hardware looks clean and professional. Unplugged, this guitar is surprisingly loud and resonant, making it a pleasant couch-playing instrument.
The P-90 is a single-coil pickup, so it will hum. This is inherent to the design and not a defect. The tone control has a limited range compared to more sophisticated wiring setups. The tuners are functional but not premium. None of these issues detract from the core playing experience, which is genuinely enjoyable.
Ideal For
Jazz and blues players who want the distinctive, expressive tone of a P-90 in a hollow body package. The single-pickup design appeals to players who like to get all their tonal variation from their hands and amp rather than from pickup switching. It is also a great practice guitar because of its unplugged resonance.
Skip This If
You need hum-free operation, as the P-90 will buzz in certain environments. If you want pickup versatility with neck and bridge options, the single-pickup design will feel limiting. Players who primarily use high gain should also look elsewhere due to the feedback-prone fully hollow body.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Hollow Body Guitar?
Choosing among the best hollow body guitars comes down to understanding your playing style, your budget, and the technical features that matter most for your tone. After testing 12 guitars across a wide price range, I want to share what our team learned to help you make the right call.
Hollow Body vs Semi-Hollow: What Actually Matters
This is the single most confusing distinction for new buyers, and Reddit forums are full of questions about it. A true hollow body guitar has no center block, meaning the entire body is an acoustic chamber. This produces maximum resonance and warmth but makes the guitar highly susceptible to feedback at high volumes.
A semi-hollow guitar has a solid wood block running down the center of the body. This reduces feedback dramatically while retaining much of the open, warm character. If you play rock, blues, or any genre with moderate to high gain, a semi-hollow is almost always the better choice. True hollow bodies shine in jazz, acoustic-electric styles, and low-volume settings.
Pickup Types: Humbucker vs P-90 vs Filter’Tron
The pickup type shapes your tone more than almost any other component. Humbuckers are the most common choice for hollow body guitars because they are noise-free and deliver warm, full output. They work well for jazz, blues, and rock. Most guitars in this guide use humbuckers.
P-90 pickups are single-coil designs that sit between a traditional single-coil and a humbucker in terms of output and girth. They have a bright, snappy character with more grind and midrange presence. The Epiphone Casino and the Grote P-90 both use this design. P-90s are fantastic for rock, blues, and R&B but will hum in electrically noisy environments.
Gretsch Broad’Tron pickups have their own voicing, with tight lows, strong mids, and clear highs. They are designed to complement the Gretsch hollow body character and excel at rockabilly, country, and clean tones.
Feedback Management: Playing Loud Without the Squeal
Feedback is the number one complaint about hollow body guitars on guitar forums. The acoustic chamber amplifies sound from your amplifier, creating a loop that results in uncontrollable howling. Here is what our team recommends based on real-world testing.
First, choose a semi-hollow over a true hollow body if you play at stage volumes. The center block makes a massive difference. Second, position yourself away from your amplifier and use a shield or amp isolation if possible. Third, consider using a noise gate in your signal chain for high-gain situations. Fourth, roll off the volume knob slightly when you are not playing to reduce the feedback loop. These techniques will let you use a hollow body in most live situations.
Body Woods and Tonewoods Explained
The wood used in a hollow body guitar significantly affects its tone. Maple is the most common top, back, and side material because it provides brightness, projection, and clarity. Basswood is used on some budget models and produces a warmer, softer tone with less high-end definition. Mahogany necks add warmth and sustain, while maple necks add brightness and snap.
Rosewood and laurel are the most common fretboard materials. Rosewood has a warm, rounded character, while laurel is slightly brighter. Jatoba, used on the IYV IJZ-300A, is a dense, smooth wood that offers excellent durability and a balanced tone. The WestCreek 333 stands out for including a bone nut, which improves sustain and tuning stability compared to the plastic nuts found on most budget guitars.
Scale Length and Neck Profile Considerations
Scale length affects string tension and playability. Most hollow body guitars use a 24.75-inch scale length, which gives a slinkier, looser feel that many jazz and blues players prefer. The Squier Starcaster and the Grote P-90 use a 25.5-inch scale, which provides tighter string tension and a more Fender-like feel. There is no right or wrong choice here, only personal preference.
Neck profile matters for comfort. Slim C profiles like the one on the WestCreek 333 are fast and modern, making them good for lead playing. Thicker, more rounded profiles like the Ibanez AF55 mahogany neck offer a vintage feel that some players prefer for chord work. If possible, try before you buy, or look for return policies that let you test the guitar risk-free.
Genre-to-Guitar Matching Guide
Based on our testing, here is how each guitar maps to common playing styles. For jazz, the Ibanez AF55, WestCreek 333, and IYV IJZ-300A are top choices because of their warm, mellow neck pickup tones. For blues, the Ibanez AS73 and Epiphone Casino deliver the right mix of warmth and bite. For rock and indie, the Squier Starcaster and Gretsch G2420 offer the versatility and clarity needed to cut through a mix.
For rockabilly and country, nothing beats the Gretsch G2420T with its Bigsby tremolo and Broad’Tron pickups. For beginners on a tight budget, the Donner DJC-1000S and Grote Full Scale offer the best starting points. And for players who want one guitar that can do a bit of everything, the Ibanez AS73 remains our top recommendation.
FAQs
Are hollow body guitars worth it?
Yes, hollow body guitars are absolutely worth it if you play jazz, blues, rockabilly, country, or indie rock. They produce a warm, resonant tone with natural acoustic character that solid body guitars simply cannot replicate. The key is choosing the right type: semi-hollow models for louder playing situations and true hollow bodies for lower-volume jazz and acoustic-electric styles.
What is the holy grail of hollow body guitars?
The Gibson ES-335 is widely considered the holy grail of semi-hollow guitars. For true hollow bodies, the Gibson L-5 and Gretsch White Falcon hold that distinction. Among affordable options, the Ibanez Artcore AS73 and Epiphone Casino are frequently cited as guitars that capture much of that magic at a fraction of the cost.
Are hollow body guitars harder to play?
No, hollow body guitars are not inherently harder to play than solid body guitars. The neck profiles and fret sizes are similar across both types. However, hollow bodies are typically larger and sometimes heavier, which can affect comfort during long playing sessions. They also require more attention to feedback management at high volumes.
What are some famous hollow body players?
Famous hollow body players include Wes Montgomery (L-5), B.B. King (ES-355), John Lennon and George Harrison (Epiphone Casino), Chuck Berry (ES-350T), Brian Setzer (Gretsch 6120), Larry Carlton (ES-335), and Ted Nugent (Gibson Byrdland). These players span jazz, blues, rock and roll, rockabilly, and classic rock.
Can you play rock on a hollow body guitar?
Yes, you can absolutely play rock on a hollow body guitar. Semi-hollow models like the Ibanez AS73 and Squier Starcaster handle rock tones very well thanks to their center block design, which reduces feedback. Many famous rock songs were recorded on semi-hollow guitars. For high-gain rock at loud volumes, semi-hollow is strongly preferred over true hollow body.
Conclusion
Finding the best hollow body guitars in 2026 means matching the right instrument to your playing style, budget, and tonal goals. Our top pick, the Ibanez Artcore AS73, delivers professional-level semi-hollow tone and versatility at a price that leaves room for a good amplifier and a professional setup. The WestCreek 333 offers the best value with premium features like a bone nut and Alnico-5 pickups, while the Grote Full Scale takes the budget crown with its stainless steel frets.
For players who want the authentic Gretsch experience, the G2420 and G2420T Streamliners are remarkable entry points. Beatles fans will fall in love with the Epiphone Casino and its P-90 character. And beginners have excellent options in the Donner DJC-1000S and the Ibanez Artcore AF55. Whatever your genre or budget, there is a hollow body guitar on this list that will inspire you to play more.
Remember that almost every guitar in this guide benefits from a professional setup. Budgeting $50 to $75 for a setup is the single best investment you can make in any of these instruments. Once properly adjusted, even the most affordable guitars on this list can sound and play like instruments costing several times more. That is the real secret to getting the most out of the best hollow body guitars available today.