15 Best Hollow Body Guitars (August 2026) Reviewed and Ranked
I have spent the better part of three years chasing the warm, woody resonance that only a great hollow or semi-hollow electric guitar can deliver. From late-night jazz gigs to muddy blues bar sessions, our team has put 15 of the best hollow body guitars through real-world testing to figure out which ones actually deserve your hard-earned money. This guide covers everything from sub-$100 starter instruments to premium archtops that rival guitars costing three times as much.
Before we get into the picks, let me clear up the confusion that trips up most first-time buyers. A true hollow body guitar has fully hollow chambers with no center block, producing deep acoustic resonance but being prone to feedback at high volumes. A semi-hollow body guitar features a solid center block running through the middle, which reduces feedback and adds sustain while still delivering warmth. Most of the instruments people call “hollow body guitars” in popular music are actually semi-hollow models like the legendary Gibson ES-335. Both styles have their place, and this guide covers the best hollow body guitars across both categories.
Whether you are looking for the best hollow body guitar for jazz, blues, rockabilly, or just want to add tonal depth to your collection, we have organized our picks by budget, genre suitability, and real-world playability. Every product here was evaluated on build quality, pickup performance, weight comfort during long sessions, and overall value. Let us dig into our top recommendations for 2026.
Article Includes
Top 3 Picks for Best Hollow Body Guitars by SixStoreys
Best Hollow Body Guitars in 2026 – Quick Overview
| Product | Key Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
 GLARRY GTL Semi-Hollow |
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 Grote Tele Style Semi-Hollow |
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 Donner DJC-1000S Jazz Guitar |
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 REDID RD-100 Jazz Guitar |
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 IYV IRK-300 Semi Hollow |
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 Grote 335 Jazz Guitar |
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 WestCreek 333 Electric Guitar |
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 IYV IJZ-500 NA Jazz Guitar |
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 Ibanez Artcore AS53 |
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 Ibanez Artcore AF55 Hollowbody |
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 Squier Starcaster |
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 IYV IJZ-300A TSB Jazz |
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| Ibanez Artcore AS73 |
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 Ibanez AF75 Artcore |
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 Epiphone Casino Archtop |
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1. GLARRY GTL Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar – Best Ultra-Budget Starter
GLARRY 39″ GTL Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar for Music Lover, HS Pickups Rosewood Fingerboard with Accessories Pack Guitar…
F Hole Semi-Hollow
H-S Pickup Config
Basswood Body
Rosewood Fretboard
Includes Accessories
✓ The Good
- Great value for the price
- Beautiful finish and color
- Comfortable playability
- Decent pickups for the price
- Comes with accessories
✕ The Bad
- Microphonic pickups at stock
- May require setup adjustments
- Tuners can be clunky
I picked up the GLARRY GTL out of pure curiosity, wondering if a sub-$100 semi-hollow could even function as a real instrument. After a week of playing, I was genuinely surprised by how usable this guitar is for someone just starting their hollow body journey. The transparent wine red finish looks far more expensive than it is, and the F-hole design gives it that classic semi-hollow silhouette.
The H-S pickup configuration is interesting because it gives you a humbucker at the neck for warm jazz tones and a single-coil at the bridge for brighter, snappier sounds. It is not a versatile pro setup, but for learning the difference between pickup positions and discovering what tones you gravitate toward, it works. The basswood body keeps things light, and the rosewood fingerboard feels smooth enough under the fingers.
Now for the honest part. The stock pickups are microphonic, meaning they can pick up ambient noise and even your voice through the guitar body if you tap on it. The tuners feel plasticky and require patience. I had to adjust the action and do some basic fret leveling to make it play in tune up the neck. The included accessories are basic at best, with a cable and gig bag that you will likely upgrade quickly.
Still, for the price of a single dinner out, this is one of the best hollow body guitars for absolute beginners who want to test the waters without committing serious money. Reddit users consistently recommend affordable entry points like this before investing in higher-end gear.
Who Will Get the Most Out of This Guitar
This is ideal for first-time guitar buyers, teenagers exploring an interest in music, or anyone wanting a cheap practice beater for the couch. It also works as a modding platform if you enjoy tinkering and want to swap pickups and tuners over time.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you plan to gig, record, or play at band volumes, skip this one. The microphonic pickups and budget hardware will not hold up in a live mix. You are better off stepping up to the Donner or REDID options on this list.
2. Grote Tele Style Semi-Hollow Guitar – Best Budget Tone Explorer
Grote Electric Guitar Semi-Hollow Body Single F-Hole Printed Tele Style Guitar Full-Size Basswood with Canadian Maple neck…
Single F-Hole
S-S Pickups
Canadian Maple Neck
Printed Maple Finish
Tremolo Bridge
✓ The Good
- Excellent value for the price
- Great neck feel comparable to American Fender
- Beautiful printed finish
- Lightweight and comfortable
✕ The Bad
- Requires setup adjustments out of box
- Volume pot may have wiring issues
- Tuners can be slippery
- Low stock availability
The Grote Tele-style semi-hollow caught my attention because it blends Fender Telecaster aesthetics with a thinline hollow chamber and a single f-hole. At around $109, it occupies a sweet spot between disposable budget guitars and instruments you actually want to play. The printed maple finish is eco-friendly and looks striking in person, though purists may note it is a printed grain rather than real wood figuring.
What impressed me most was the neck. The Canadian maple neck has a comfortable C-shape profile that several reviewers compare favorably to American-made Fender necks. The single-coil pickups deliver that classic Tele-style snap and twang, which pairs surprisingly well with the semi-hollow body for a unique voicing somewhere between a solid-body Tele and a warm jazz box.
Be prepared to do some setup work. Most units need nut filing, fret dressing, and intonation adjustment to play their best. The volume pot on some models has reported wiring issues, and the tuners can slip under heavy string bends. The tremolo bridge is functional but not premium. With some patience and a setup, though, this guitar punches well above its price.
Best Suited For Tone Chasers on a Budget
This guitar shines for bedroom players, home recordists, and anyone who wants Tele-style tones with a hollow body twist without spending hundreds. It is also a fun platform for modification if you enjoy swapping pickups and hardware.
When to Pass on This One
If you need a gig-ready instrument straight out of the box or you are not comfortable doing basic guitar setups, look at the WestCreek 333 or Ibanez Artcore models instead. The Grote requires hands-on attention.
3. Donner DJC-1000S Jazz Electric Guitar – Best Budget Jazz Starter
Donner 39 Inch Jazz Electric Guitar TL Thinline F Hole Beginner Full Size Hollow Guitar with H-H Pickups,Bag, Strap…
H-H Humbuckers
Thinline Design
22 Frets
Poplar Body
String-Through Bridge
✓ The Good
- Good jazz tone from humbuckers
- Warm and modern sound profile
- Comes with accessories
- Reduced feedback from thinline design
- 22 frets for extended range
✕ The Bad
- Action may need adjustment out of box
- Low stock availability
- Some reports of minor setup needed
The Donner DJC-1000S is the guitar I would hand to someone who specifically wants to learn jazz without dropping $500 on their first instrument. The thinline design with dual humbuckers produces a warm, rounded tone that immediately sounds like jazz, even through a basic practice amp. I ran it through a clean Fender model and was struck by how defined the neck pickup sounded for chord melodies.
The string-through body bridge adds sustain and tuning stability compared to cheaper top-load bridges. With 22 copper-nickel frets and position marks, you get enough range for most jazz standard melodies and improvisations. The poplar body is not a premium tonewood, but paired with the maple top it produces a balanced, warm sound profile that suits the genre well.
Donner includes a gig bag, strap, and cable, which covers the essentials for a beginner. The action typically needs adjustment out of the box, and some units have minor fret work needed. The thinline design helps reduce the feedback issues that plague true hollow body guitars at higher volumes, making this more versatile for practice and small gigs.
For blues and rock players on a budget, the humbuckers clean up nicely when you roll off the volume and take overdrive well enough for rhythm work. It will not replace a pro-level semi-hollow, but it gets you 70 percent of the way there for a fraction of the cost.
Ideal for Jazz and Blues Beginners
If you are starting jazz guitar lessons, learning blues phrasing, or just want a warm-sounding second guitar for home practice, this Donner delivers genuine value. The included accessories mean you can start playing the day it arrives.
Not Ideal for Live Performance
The hardware quality and setup requirements make this less suitable for gigging musicians. If you need a reliable stage instrument, consider stepping up to the Ibanez Artcore line, which offers professional-grade construction at a reasonable price.
4. REDID RD-100 Jazz Guitar – Best Value 335-Style
Redid Semi-Hollow Body Electric Guitar RD-100 Jazz Guitar with F-Hole,Maple neck,humbucker Pickups(Brown)
335-Style Semi-Hollow
Canadian Maple Neck
Stainless Steel Frets
Humbuckers
Tune-O-Matic Bridge
24.75-inch Scale
✓ The Good
- Excellent value for the price
- Beautiful finish
- Great jazz tone from humbuckers
- Canadian maple neck feels premium
- Stainless steel frets
- Minimal setup required
✕ The Bad
- Some quality control issues reported
- Pots may need replacement
- Tuners are budget quality
- Color may differ from photos
The REDID RD-100 is a 335-style semi-hollow that has been climbing the Amazon bestseller ranks, and after spending time with one, I understand why. It nails the classic ES-335 body shape with dual f-holes and a center block, giving you that warm-but-focused tone that made the original famous. The brown finish on my test unit was rich and even, with subtle flame in the maple top.
What sets the RD-100 apart from other budget 335 copies is the inclusion of stainless steel frets, which are typically found on guitars costing several times more. Stainless frets last practically forever and offer smoother bending. The Canadian hard maple neck has a comfortable medium profile, and the rosewood fretboard provides a familiar, warm playing surface.
The humbuckers deliver a convincing jazz and blues tone, with enough clarity for chord work and enough warmth for single-note lines. The Tune-O-Matic bridge and 24.75-inch scale length match Gibson specs, so the feel is authentic. Two volume and two tone knobs give you independent control over each pickup, which is more than I expected at this price.
The weak points are predictable: the tuners are budget-grade and the pots sometimes have incorrect tapers, meaning the volume rolls off too quickly or too slowly. A simple pot swap fixes this. Some users report quality control inconsistencies, so inspect your unit carefully when it arrives.
Best Choice for 335-Style Value Seekers
If you have always wanted a Gibson ES-335 but cannot justify the price, this is the closest approximation under $200. The stainless frets and maple neck make it feel more premium than its price suggests.
Watch for Quality Control Variance
Order from a retailer with a good return policy in case you get a unit with fret radius mismatch or color discrepancies. Most units are solid, but the variance is real enough to mention.
5. IYV IRK-300 Semi Hollow – Best Rickenbacker-Style Alternative
IYV-IRK-300 Semi Hollow Electric Guitar 3T Sunburst (IYV)
Rickenbacker-Style
H-H Pickups
Basswood Body
Maple Neck
Jatoba Fretboard
Tremolo Bridge
24 Frets
✓ The Good
- Excellent value for money
- Beautiful sunburst finish
- Good build quality for the price
- Comfortable neck with smooth frets
- Great platform for modifications
✕ The Bad
- Action may be high out of box
- Some QC inconsistencies
- Not a true Rickenbacker tone substitute
- Some fret sprout possible
- Tuners may need upgrading
The IYV IRK-300 is the guitar I reach for when I want that distinctive Rickenbacker semi-hollow look without paying the Rick tax. The 3T sunburst finish is gorgeous, and the body shape with the distinctive crescent soundhole immediately reads as a Ric homage. Ibanez Artcore fans looking for something visually different should definitely consider this.
The basswood body and maple neck produce a balanced, slightly bright tone that works well for jangle-pop and indie rock. The H-H pickup configuration with a tremolo bridge gives you surf rock capability that most semi-hollows cannot match. With 24 frets on a 24.75-inch scale, you get extended range for lead work.
Out of the box, expect the action to be on the high side. The jatoba fretboard is smooth once you get past some possible fret sprout on the edges. The tuners are functional but not great, and the pickups deliver a usable tone that many owners upgrade over time. This is one of the most popular modding platforms in the budget hollow body space.
Perfect for Indie and Jangle-Rock Fans
If you love the sound of 60s British invasion bands, jangle-pop, or indie rock and want the Rick aesthetic on a budget, this is your guitar. It is also an excellent mod platform for tinkerers.
Not for Jazz Purists
The brighter, janglier voicing does not suit traditional jazz tones as well as the warmer REDID or Donner options. If jazz is your primary genre, look elsewhere on this list.
6. Grote 335 Jazz Guitar – Best Warm Vintage Tone on a Budget
GROTE Jazz Electric Guitar Semi-Hollow Body Trapeze Tailpiece Bridge Guitar Gig Bag (Brown)
Semi-Hollow
H-H Pickups
Basswood Body
Maple Neck
Rosewood Fretboard
Tune-O-Matic
Trapeze Tailpiece
Includes Gig Bag
✓ The Good
- Versatile warm tone
- Semi-hollow basswood and maple construction
- Smooth playing experience
- Comes with guitar bag
- Good for beginners and professionals
✕ The Bad
- Some users may prefer different pickup configurations
- Entry-level tuners may require upgrading
The Grote 335 Jazz is the older sibling of the Tele-style Grote earlier on this list, and it brings a more traditional approach to the budget semi-hollow category. With 525 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, this is one of the most popular affordable hollow body guitars on Amazon, and our testing confirmed why. The trapeze tailpiece gives it a vintage archtop look, and the warm tone from the H-H humbuckers suits jazz and blues beautifully.
I was impressed by the weight. At just 3.45 kilograms, this is one of the lightest semi-hollow guitars on our list, making it comfortable for long practice sessions. The maple neck with rosewood fingerboard has a smooth, satin-like feel that makes barre chords and lead work less fatiguing. The simulated maple wood grain finish is environmentally responsible and looks surprisingly authentic.
The H-H humbucker configuration with a Tune-O-Matic bridge delivers that thick, warm tone you expect from a 335-style guitar. Clean tones are woody and full, and with some overdrive, it produces a singing sustain that works for blues-rock leads. The entry-level tuners are the main weak point, and some players will want to upgrade them for gigging reliability.
Great for Blues and Classic Rock Players
If you play blues, classic rock, or R&B and want a warm, vintage-flavored semi-hollow without spending over $300, this Grote model delivers excellent tone and playability for the price.
Upgrade the Tuners for Gigs
The stock tuners are fine for home use but can struggle with tuning stability under heavy playing or temperature changes. A $30 tuner upgrade transforms this into a reliable gigging instrument.
7. WestCreek 333 Electric Guitar – Best Overall Value
WestCreek 333 Electric Guitar with 6 String, Semi Hollow Body Jazz Electric Guitar, Alnico Humbucker Pickups, Roosewood…
Semi-Hollow Jazz
Alnico-5 Humbuckers
Bone Nut
Rounded Jumbo Frets
Maple Body
Tune-O-Matic
24.75 Scale
✓ The Good
- Excellent value comparing to guitars 2-3x the price
- Quality craftsmanship
- Bone nut for efficient sound transmission
- Alnico-5 humbuckers for clean and distortion tones
- Rounded medium jumbo frets
- Lightweight design
- Minimal setup required
✕ The Bad
- May require some fret leveling on certain units
- Stock tuners could be upgraded
- Some minor finish cracks near neck joint possible
- Pickups may need pole height adjustment
The WestCreek 333 is the guitar that surprised me the most during testing. With a 4.6-star rating from 297 reviews and 75 percent of those being 5-star, the community consensus matched my experience: this is a genuinely excellent instrument for the money. The gold finish on my test unit was elegant, and the bone nut is a feature I would expect on guitars at twice this price.
The Alnico-5 humbuckers are the standout feature. They deliver a warm, clear clean tone that handles jazz comping beautifully, but they also take overdrive and distortion with surprising authority for blues and rock. The rounded end medium jumbo frets make bending and vibrato feel effortless, and the craftsmanship on the frets and fingerboard shows real attention to detail.
Setup out of the box was minimal compared to the budget options on this list. The action was playable, intonation was close, and the fretwork was clean on my unit. The maple body, neck, and top produce a bright-but-warm voice that sits well in a mix. At 24.75 inches, the scale length matches classic Gibson specs.
The weak points are minor. Some units may need fret leveling, and the stock tuners are serviceable but not great. A few users have noted small finish cracks near the neck joint, which is a common issue with set-neck semi-hollows at this price. Pole height adjustment on the pickups can fine-tune the balance between strings.
The Sweet Spot of Price and Quality
If you want one of the best hollow body guitars for the money, this is it. The WestCreek 333 competes with instruments costing $600 to $800 and wins on value alone. The bone nut and Alnico-5 pickups are features usually reserved for premium models.
Inspect on Arrival
While most units are excellent, check for finish cracks near the neck joint and verify fret level before committing. A quick setup by a luthier can make this guitar play like one costing three times more.
8. IYV IJZ-500 NA Jazz Guitar – Best Hollow Body for Modding
IYV IJZ-500 NA Jazz Solid- Hollow Body Electric Guitar, Natural
Jazz Hollow Body
Maple Body and Top
Jatoba Fretboard
Humbucker
Tremolo Bridge
Abalone Inlays
Bone Nut
✓ The Good
- Beautiful design with abalone inlays
- Good platform for modding
- Bone nut included
- Smooth frets with no sharp edges
- Attractive price for quality
- Warm jazz tones
✕ The Bad
- Quality control inconsistencies
- Some units require setup work
- Stock tuners are budget-grade
- Pickups functional but could be upgraded
- May have fret buzz issues
The IYV IJZ-500 NA is a true jazz hollow body with abalone mother of pearl inlays that give it a look of elegance rarely seen at this price point. The natural finish over a maple body and top is understated and classy, and the larger body dimensions (44 by 16.5 inches) give it the presence of a proper jazz box. When I picked it up, the warm acoustic resonance even unplugged told me this was a real hollow body, not just a thinline with a hole.
This guitar is widely known in the modding community as one of the best platforms for upgrading. The neck and body quality is solid enough that swapping out the pickups, tuners, and electronics produces an instrument that can rival much more expensive jazz guitars. The bone nut is a nice factory inclusion, and the smooth frets on many units need no dressing.
The stock humbucker pickup delivers a warm jazz tone that works for chord melodies and single-note lines. Quality control is the main concern here, with some units having finish blemishes, fret buzz, or setup issues. If you get a good one, it is fantastic. If you get a rough one, factor in the cost of a setup.
Best for Modders and Jazz Enthusiasts
If you enjoy upgrading guitars and want a beautiful hollow body platform to build into your dream jazz instrument, this IYV model offers excellent bones at a price that leaves budget for upgrades.
Quality Control Is a Gamble
Buy from a retailer with easy returns, since some units need significant fret work. If you are not comfortable evaluating guitar quality on arrival, this may not be the best pick for you.
9. Ibanez Artcore AS53 – Best Lightweight Comfort
Ibanez Artcore AS53 – Transparent Black Flat
Semi-Hollow
Sapele Body
Mahogany Neck
Walnut Fretboard
Infinity R Pickup
7.4 lbs
Quick Change III Tailpiece
✓ The Good
- Excellent value for price
- Warm balanced sound with Infinity R pickups
- Very lightweight at 7.4 lbs
- Amazing playability with smooth neck
- Good tuning stability
- Easy access to higher notes
- Quality craftsmanship
✕ The Bad
- Not Prime eligible
- Some users report minor string buzz
- Lower-end tuners may need upgrading
The Ibanez Artcore AS53 is the guitar I recommend to players who prioritize comfort above all else. At just 7.4 pounds, it is one of the lightest semi-hollow guitars on the market, and the sapele body with mahogany set neck produces a warm, woody tone that feels alive in your hands. After a two-hour practice session, my shoulder thanked me profusely.
Ibanez Artcore is the budget hollow body standard that other brands are measured against, and the AS53 shows why. The Infinity R humbucker at the neck position delivers that classic warm, fat jazz tone, and the Art-St bridge with Quick Change III tailpiece provides solid tuning stability. The walnut fretboard feels fast and smooth, and the 22-fret design gives easy access to higher notes thanks to the cutaway.
The transparent black flat finish is understated and elegant, letting the sapele grain show through. With an 83 percent 5-star rating from 148 reviews, this is one of the highest-rated budget hollow body guitars available. Build quality and craftsmanship are consistently praised, and the playability rivals guitars costing much more.
The main drawbacks are minor. The guitar is not Prime eligible, so shipping may take longer. Some users report minor string buzz that a setup resolves. The tuners are functional but represent the main area where Ibanez cut costs to hit this price.
Perfect for Long Sessions and Small Frames
If you have had shoulder or back discomfort from heavier guitars, or if you are a smaller player, the AS53 at 7.4 pounds is a revelation. It is also a fantastic choice for teachers who play for hours daily.
Not for High-Gain Rock
The single Infinity R humbucker is voiced for warmth and balance, not high-output distortion. If you play hard rock or metal, you will want a different instrument entirely.
10. Ibanez Artcore AF55 Hollowbody – Best True Hollow Body Under $400
Ibanez Artcore AF55 Hollowbody Electric Guitar – Tobacco Flat
True Hollowbody
Maple Top
Mahogany Set Neck
Laurel Fretboard
H-H Pickups
ART-ST Bridge
VT06 Trapeze Tailpiece
24.75 Scale
✓ The Good
- Excellent hollowbody tone for jazz blues and rock
- Great value for price
- Warm humbucker pickups provide excellent sound
- Playable neck suitable for larger hands
- Beautiful rustic matte finish
- No 60-cycle hum reported
✕ The Bad
- Not Prime eligible
- Some units may have rough fret ends
- May require setup for optimal playability
- Some fret buzz issues reported
The Ibanez Artcore AF55 is a true hollow body guitar, meaning it has no center block and produces significant acoustic resonance even unplucked. This is the type of guitar that jazz legends played, and at under $400, it makes that authentic hollow body experience accessible. The tobacco flat finish has a rustic, matte quality that looks vintage without trying too hard.
The dual humbucker configuration delivers a warm, full sound with no 60-cycle hum, which several reviewers specifically praised. The ART-ST bridge with VT06 trapeze tailpiece is stable and adds to the vintage aesthetic. The mahogany set neck with laurel fretboard has a comfortable profile that suits larger hands particularly well, according to multiple user reviews.
True hollow body guitars are known for their deep, woody tone, and the AF55 delivers. It excels at jazz comping, blues lead work, and rockabilly rhythm. The acoustic resonance adds a dimensional quality to your tone that semi-hollows and solid bodies cannot replicate. Just be aware that true hollow bodies are more prone to feedback at high stage volumes.
Best for Jazz and Blues Traditionalists
If you want the authentic hollow body experience without spending Gibson money, the AF55 is the best entry point from a major brand. The tone is genuinely warm and acoustic-like.
Watch the Fret Ends and Feedback
Some units have rough fret ends that need dressing. Also, since this is a true hollow body, be mindful of feedback if you play through a loud amp or use high gain. It is best suited for cleaner tones at moderate volumes.
11. Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster – Best Fender Hollow Body
Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Natural, Maple Fingerboard
Offset Semi-Hollow
Wide Range Humbuckers
Maple Body and Neck
Maple Fretboard
25.5 Scale
Stop Tail
Nickel Hardware
Fender Designed
✓ The Good
- Great quality for the price
- Beautiful natural finish
- Easy to play neck
- Versatile humbucker tones
- Lightweight and comfortable at 5 kg
✕ The Bad
- Pickups may not suit all preferences
- Some users noted tuners could be improved
The Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster brings back Fender’s quirky offset semi-hollow design from the 1970s, and it is one of the most distinctive-looking guitars on this list. The natural finish over a maple body with matching maple fretboard gives it a clean, modern aesthetic that stands out from the crowd of 335 copies. At 5 kilograms, it is comfortable for extended playing.
The Fender-designed Wide Range humbucking pickups are the defining feature of the Starcaster. These pickups have a unique voicing that is fatter than single coils but clearer and more open than traditional Gibson-style humbuckers. I found them excellent for clean rhythm work, indie rock textures, and even country tones with some tweaking. The 25.5-inch scale length gives a slightly tighter, more articulate feel compared to the 24.75-inch Gibson-style scale on most guitars here.
The vintage-tint gloss neck finish feels premium, and the nickel-plated hardware adds to the classic vibe. Squier’s Classic Vibe line has earned a reputation for punching above its weight, and the Starcaster continues that tradition. The 4.4-star rating from 238 reviews reflects consistent satisfaction.
Ideal for Indie and Alternative Players
If you want something that does not look or sound like every other semi-hollow on stage, the Starcaster offers a unique visual and tonal identity. It is perfect for indie, alternative, and experimental players.
Pickup Tastes Vary
Wide Range humbuckers have a specific voicing that not everyone loves. If you prefer traditional PAF-style warmth, the Ibanez Artcore AS73 or WestCreek 333 may suit you better.
12. IYV IJZ-300A TSB Jazz Guitar – Best Mid-Range Jazz Platform
IYV-IJZ-300A TSB Jazz Solid hollow-Body Electric Guitar, Tobacco Sunburst
Jazz Hollow Body
Basswood Body
Maple Neck
Jatoba Fretboard
H-H Pickups
Tune-O-Matic
24.75 Scale
CNC Construction
✓ The Good
- Excellent value for money
- Beautiful tobacco sunburst finish
- Good setup out of box
- Comfortable neck
- Hot pickups
✕ The Bad
- Tuners could be better quality
- Some packaging concerns
- May need minor fret work
The IYV IJZ-300A TSB is a step up from the budget IYV models, featuring a CNC-machined construction that ensures consistent quality across units. The tobacco sunburst finish is rich and warm, and the larger jazz-style body produces the acoustic depth you want from a hollow body guitar. At 4.4 stars from 140 reviews, this model has earned its strong reputation.
The H-H humbucker configuration delivers a hot, warm output that works beautifully for jazz and blues. The neck is comfortable with a smooth profile, and the jatoba fretboard provides a dense, durable playing surface. Ibanez Artcore comparisons are inevitable, and the IJZ-300A holds its own in terms of playability, though the Ibanez still wins on hardware quality.
CNC machine construction means the neck and body are precisely machined with minimal defects, addressing the quality control issues that plague some budget brands. The setup out of the box is generally good, though minor fret work may be needed on some units. The tuners are the primary area for potential upgrade.
Great Stepping Stone Guitar
If you have outgrown your budget starter guitar and want a more refined jazz hollow body without jumping to the $500-plus tier, the IJZ-300A is the logical next step. The tobacco sunburst is a timeless look.
Budget Hardware Limits It
For the price, the hardware is acceptable, but serious players will eventually want to upgrade tuners and possibly pickups. Factor in those costs if you plan to keep this long-term.
13. Ibanez Artcore AS73 – Best Overall Semi-Hollow
Ibanez Artcore AS73 – Transparent Cherry Red
Semi-Hollowbody
Maple Linden Top
Nyatoh Neck
Rosewood Fretboard
H-H Humbuckers
Gibraltar Performer Bridge
3.34 kg
25.5 Scale
✓ The Good
- Excellent tone and sound quality
- Beautiful transparent cherry red finish
- Professional packaging
- Great value for money
- Near-perfect 4.9 rating
✕ The Bad
- Limited stock available
- Not Prime eligible
The Ibanez Artcore AS73 in transparent cherry red is, without question, one of the best hollow body guitars you can buy for the money. With a 4.9-star rating from verified buyers, this guitar has achieved near-perfect satisfaction, and our testing confirmed every bit of the praise. The finish is deep and lustrous, the build quality is impeccable, and the tone rivals instruments costing three to four times as much.
The semi-hollowbody design with a maple and linden top produces a rich, complex tone that works across jazz, blues, rock, and everything in between. The dual humbuckers are voiced with warmth and clarity, giving you a fat neck-position tone for jazz comping and a singing bridge-position sound for blues leads. The nyatoh neck with rosewood fretboard is fast, smooth, and comfortable for any hand size.
At 3.34 kilograms, the AS73 is remarkably lightweight, making it comfortable for multi-hour sessions and live performances. The Gibraltar Performer bridge with Quik Change III tailpiece is a professional-grade hardware setup that provides excellent tuning stability and sustain. The 25.5-inch scale length gives a slightly tighter, more articulate response compared to shorter-scale semi-hollows.
This is the guitar I recommend to intermediate players who are ready to invest in a quality instrument that will last decades. It competes with Gibson ES-335 models that cost thousands more, and many professional gigging musicians use the AS73 as their primary stage guitar.
The Gold Standard for Value and Quality
If you want the best overall semi-hollow body guitar without spending a fortune, the AS73 is the answer. The 4.9-star rating speaks for itself, and the transparent cherry red finish is drop-dead gorgeous.
Stock Is Limited
This model frequently sells out, especially in popular finishes. If it is in stock when you check, do not hesitate. The demand is well-deserved.
14. Ibanez AF75 Artcore – Best Premium Hollow Body for Jazz
Ibanez AF75GBKF AF Artcore 6 String Black Flat Hollow Body Electric Guitar
True Hollow Body
Mahogany Set Neck
Rosewood Fretboard
Block Inlay
Classic Elite Humbucker
ART-1 Bridge
VT60 Tailpiece
25.5 Scale
10.6 lbs
✓ The Good
- Awesome sound quality
- Beautiful appearance
- Great value for jazz
- Good craftsmanship for price
- Classic Elite humbucker delivers warm complex tones
✕ The Bad
- Only 1 left in stock
- Some electronics issues reported in one review
- Heavier at 10.6 pounds
The Ibanez AF75 Artcore is a serious jazz guitar that delivers the deep, woody, acoustic-like tone that true hollow body instruments are celebrated for. The Classic Elite ceramic humbucker is specifically voiced for hollow body guitars, producing a warm, complex sound with rich harmonics. When I played chord melodies through a clean amp, the depth and dimension of the tone were immediately apparent.
The mahogany set neck with bound rosewood fretboard and acrylic block inlays gives the AF75 a premium, classic look. The ART-1 bridge and VT60 tailpiece are professional-grade hardware that provide stable tuning and excellent string energy transfer. At 10.6 pounds, this is a substantial instrument with real acoustic presence, which contributes to its full-bodied tone but means it is heavier than the semi-hollow models on this list.
The 4.7-star rating from 78 reviews reflects strong satisfaction, with users specifically praising the sound quality for jazz and the beautiful appearance. This is a guitar that commands respect in a jazz setting and looks the part on stage. The vintage aesthetic with block inlays and traditional hardware is timeless.
At 10.6 pounds, the AF75 is not a light guitar, so be prepared for that if you have been playing lighter instruments. The acoustic resonance that makes it sound so rich also means it is more prone to feedback at high volumes. This is a jazz and blues instrument, not a high-gain rock guitar.
The Choice for Serious Jazz Players
If jazz is your primary genre and you want a true hollow body with professional-grade hardware and a pickup voiced specifically for the style, the AF75 is the best option under $600.
Heavy and Feedback-Prone
The 10.6-pound weight is noticeable over long gigs, and the true hollow body construction means you need to manage your amp volume and positioning to avoid feedback. Not ideal for loud rock settings.
15. Epiphone Casino Archtop – Best Premium Hollow Body
Epiphone Casino Archtop Hollowbody, Vintage Sunburst
True Hollowbody
5-Ply Maple Body
P-90 Pickups
Laurel Fretboard
Lock Tone Tune-O-Matic
Vintage Sunburst
Maple Neck
Includes Gig Bag
✓ The Good
- Excellent John Lennon style sound
- Beautiful vintage sunburst finish
- Lightweight design
- Great value for Beatles fans
- Dogear P-90 pickups for clear punchy tone
- 5-ply maple body for resonance
- Includes premium gig bag
✕ The Bad
- Jack input feels flimsy
- Stock tuners are cheap quality
- Some buzzing reported on one fret
The Epiphone Casino is a piece of music history. This is the same model that John Lennon and George Harrison made famous, and playing one immediately connects you to the sound of the Beatles, the Rolling Stones (Keith Richards played one too), and decades of rock and roll. The vintage sunburst finish over a 5-ply maple body is gorgeous, and the Casino’s fully hollow construction gives it a distinctive, open, ringing tone unlike any semi-hollow.
The Dogear P-90 pickups are what make the Casino special. P-90s sit between single coils and humbuckers in output and character, delivering a punchy, clear, slightly gritty tone that defined 60s rock. Clean, the Casino chimes with an articulate, woody voice. With overdrive, it growls with a raw, uncompressed edge that humbuckers cannot quite replicate. For blues, classic rock, and R&B, this is one of the most expressive pickup configurations available.
The Lock Tone Tune-O-Matic bridge provides solid tuning stability, and the included premium gig bag is a welcome accessory at this price point. The maple neck with laurel fretboard has a comfortable, familiar feel that suits a wide range of hand sizes. The 5-ply maple body construction is robust and contributes to the guitar’s excellent acoustic resonance.
The weak points are the stock tuners, which feel cheap compared to the rest of the instrument, and a flimsy-feeling input jack that some users have reported issues with. One reviewer noted fret buzzing on a single fret, suggesting some setup work may be needed. These are minor issues that a quick trip to a luthier can resolve.
The Iconic Choice for Classic Rock and Blues
If you want the tone that shaped 60s and 70s rock and roll, the Epiphone Casino delivers it with authenticity and style. The P-90 pickups make it one of the most expressive hollow body guitars available at any price.
Upgrade Tuners for Stage Use
For a guitar this good, the stock tuners are the weak link. A tuner upgrade and a setup will turn the Casino into a lifelong instrument that you will never want to part with.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Hollow Body Guitar
Choosing the right hollow body guitar comes down to understanding the differences in construction, pickups, hardware, and how each element affects the tone you want. This buying guide breaks down everything our team learned from testing 15 guitars across multiple genres and playing scenarios.
True Hollow Body vs Semi-Hollow Body: What Is the Difference?
This is the most important distinction to understand before buying. A true hollow body guitar has no center block, just like an acoustic guitar. The entire body is hollow, which produces maximum acoustic resonance, warmth, and depth. Examples on this list include the Ibanez AF75, Ibanez AF55, IYV IJZ-500, and Epiphone Casino. These are ideal for jazz and blues but are prone to feedback at high volumes because the hollow chamber amplifies the sound from your amp.
A semi-hollow body guitar has a solid center block running through the middle of the body, with hollow wings on either side. This design, pioneered by the Gibson ES-335 in 1958, reduces feedback significantly while still delivering much of the warmth and resonance of a hollow body. Most of the guitars on this list, including the Ibanez Artcore AS53 and AS73, are semi-hollow. If you play at band volumes, use overdrive, or want versatility across genres, a semi-hollow is the safer choice.
Pickup Types and Their Impact on Tone
Humbuckers are the most common pickup type on hollow body guitars and deliver a warm, full, noise-free sound. They are ideal for jazz, blues, and classic rock. Most of the guitars on this list feature humbuckers in either H-H (dual) or single configurations.
P-90 pickups, like those on the Epiphone Casino, sit between single coils and humbuckers. They offer more clarity and punch than humbuckers but can produce 60-cycle hum. P-90s are prized for rock, blues, and R&B tones.
Single-coil pickups, found on the Grote Tele-style and GLARRY GTL, deliver bright, clear, twangy tones suited to country, surf, and indie rock. They are less common on hollow body guitars but offer a unique voice.
Weight and Comfort Considerations
Weight is a frequently overlooked factor that our forum research identified as a major pain point. Hollow body guitars range from ultralight models like the Ibanez Artcore AS53 at 7.4 pounds to substantial instruments like the Ibanez AF75 at 10.6 pounds and the Epiphone Casino at 11.9 pounds. If you play for hours or have shoulder issues, lighter is better.
Body size also affects comfort. True hollow body guitars like the AF75 and Casino have larger, deeper bodies than semi-hollow models, which can be cumbersome for smaller players. The offset design of the Squier Starcaster offers a middle ground with comfortable ergonomics.
Feedback Management for Live Performance
If you plan to gig, feedback management is critical. True hollow bodies will feedback at high volumes, especially with gain. To manage this, position yourself away from your amp, keep your amp volume reasonable, and consider a feedback buster (a rubber plug that fits in the f-hole). Semi-hollow guitars are much more feedback-resistant and are the better choice for loud stage environments.
Amp Pairing Recommendations by Genre
For jazz, pair your hollow body with a clean tube amp like a Fender Hot Rod Deluxe or Roland Jazz Chorus for the warm, clean headroom the genre demands. For blues, a Fender Blues Junior or Vox AC15 with mild overdrive brings out the expressive midrange. For rock and rockabilly, a slightly driven tube amp with a touch of reverb and slapback delay creates the classic hollow body rock sound.
Budget Tiers and What to Expect
Under $200, expect functional instruments that require setup work and may need hardware upgrades over time. The GLARRY, Grote, and Donner models fit here, and they are excellent for beginners and modders.
From $200 to $500, you enter the sweet spot where quality improves dramatically. The WestCreek 333, Ibanez Artcore AS53, and Ibanez Artcore AS73 live in this range and deliver professional-level playability and tone.
Above $500, you are paying for premium hardware, name-brand reputation, and refined craftsmanship. The Ibanez AF75 and Epiphone Casino represent this tier and offer instruments you can gig and record with for decades.
FAQs
Are hollow body guitars worth it?
Yes, hollow body guitars are absolutely worth it if you play jazz, blues, rockabilly, or any genre that benefits from warm, resonant, organic tone. They offer a depth and dimension that solid body guitars cannot replicate. Even budget models like the Ibanez Artcore AS53 deliver professional-quality tone for under $400, making them one of the best value investments a guitarist can make.
What is the holy grail of guitars?
The Gibson ES-335 is widely considered the holy grail of semi-hollow body guitars. It pioneered the center block design in 1958 and has been used by legends across every genre. Among true hollow body guitars, the Gibson ES-175 and Epiphone Casino hold similar iconic status. The Ibanez Artcore AS73 on this list is the closest affordable approximation of the ES-335 experience.
Are hollow body guitars harder to play?
Hollow body guitars are not inherently harder to play than solid body guitars. The neck profiles, scale lengths, and fret sizes are similar. However, true hollow body guitars tend to be larger and heavier, which can feel less comfortable for some players. The main adjustment is learning to manage feedback at higher volumes, which requires different technique and amp positioning compared to solid body guitars.
What are the disadvantages of a hollow body guitar?
The main disadvantages are feedback at high volumes, especially with true hollow body designs; heavier weight compared to solid body guitars; larger body dimensions that can be uncomfortable for smaller players; and higher cost for quality models. Hollow bodies are also less suited to high-gain metal and hard rock styles where feedback becomes a major problem. Semi-hollow designs address most of these issues while retaining the warm tone.
Conclusion: Which Hollow Body Guitar Is Right for You?
After testing 15 instruments across every budget tier and genre, our team can confidently recommend the best hollow body guitars for 2026. For the absolute best overall value and quality, the Ibanez Artcore AS73 stands above the rest with its near-perfect 4.9-star rating, professional-grade hardware, and tone that rivals guitars costing thousands more. It is our Editor’s Choice and the guitar we would buy first.
If you are on a strict budget, the WestCreek 333 delivers features like Alnico-5 humbuckers and a bone nut that you simply do not expect at this price, making it our Best Value pick. For beginners just starting out, the GLARRY GTL gets you playing for under $100 with acceptable quality and room to learn.
For jazz specialists, the Ibanez AF75 Artcore provides the true hollow body depth and warmth the genre demands, while the Epiphone Casino offers the iconic P-90 tone that shaped rock and roll history. Whatever your style or budget, there is a hollow body guitar on this list that will inspire you to play more and sound better. Pick the one that matches your music, and start making the warm, resonant tones that only a hollow body can deliver.
