Best DAngelico Semiacoustic Guitars 2026
Okay, so you're looking at a D'Angelico semi-acoustic? Smart move. They've got a vibe, a history, and a tone that's often overlooked in the Fender/Gibson conversation. These aren't your average hollow-body; they've got a unique character that can really cut through a mix, but they aren't without their quirks. Let's break down what makes a D'Angelico semi-acoustic tick, and if it's the right axe for your gig.
Last updated: July 8, 2026 • Next update: July 15, 2026
⚡ The best semiacoustic guitars in 2026 are DAngelico Premier SS Brown Burst (top pick), DAngelico Excel SS Soho Amaretto Burst for tighter budgets, and DAngelico Deluxe 59 Satin Trans Wine for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $658–$2,198, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
DAngelico Premier SS Brown Burst
by
DAngelico
Rockabilly
Jazz
Country
Key Feature:
This D’Angelico Premier SS is a seriously cool semi-hollow – a real sweet spot for players wanting that vintage vibe with modern playability. The Supro pickups give it a distinctive voice, perfect for blues, jazz, or even rock. It's a well-built instrument offering a lot of character for the price.
PROS
- • Laminated spruce top delivers warm, airy resonance with surprising projection.
- • Supro Bolt Bucker pickups offer a unique, vintage-inspired growl and clarity.
- • Maple construction provides excellent sustain and a tight, focused low end.
- • Grover Rotomatic tuners ensure stable tuning and smooth, precise adjustments.
CONS
- • The center block, while beneficial, slightly dampens the full hollowbody resonance.
- • Pau Ferro fingerboard can feel a little less slick than rosewood for some players.
- • The Brown Burst finish, while attractive, might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 577884
$879
#2
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
DAngelico Excel SS Soho Amaretto Burst
by
DAngelico
Jazz
Blues
Rockabilly
Key Feature:
The D’Angelico Excel SS Soho is a really classy instrument – the build quality is impressive, and the tone is spot-on for jazz, blues, and lighter rock. It’s a great choice for players looking for a semi-hollow feel without the overwhelming complexity of more expensive models, and it's a premium-priced option that delivers a lot of value.
PROS
- • The Kent Armstrong Jazzy Joe pickup delivers a surprisingly articulate and warm vintage tone.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides exceptional clarity and a smooth playing experience.
- • The 3-piece maple/walnut/maple neck construction ensures stability and a comfortable feel.
- • Grover Rotomatic locking tuners offer reliable tuning stability and easy string changes.
CONS
- • The semi-hollow body, while resonant, will likely be a bit heavier than a solid-body.
- • The single pickup configuration limits versatility for players needing a wider range of tones.
- • The Amaretto Burst finish, while beautiful, might be a fingerprint magnet for some users.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 603428
$2,184
#3
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
DAngelico Deluxe 59 Satin Trans Wine
by
DAngelico
Blues
Country
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
This Deluxe 59 is a seriously cool instrument – the mahogany body and Great Dane P-90s give it a real vintage vibe with plenty of growl. It's ideal for blues, rock, and jazz players who want a semi-hollow with a distinctive look and feel; just be mindful of potential feedback at high gain.
PROS
- • Mahogany laminate body provides warm, resonant, and balanced tone.
- • Seymour Duncan Great Dane P-90s deliver thick, articulate, vintage-inspired grit.
- • Walnut core in the neck adds stability and a pleasant feel under the fingers.
- • 5-Ply binding and Stairstep Tailpiece offer a premium aesthetic and solid construction.
CONS
- • The satin finish, while attractive, can feel a bit plasticky to some players.
- • Hollow body design makes it somewhat feedback-prone at higher volumes, requiring careful amp placement.
- • The narrow C-neck profile might not suit players who prefer a thicker, chunkier feel.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 545081
$1,979
#4
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
DAngelico Premier Mini DC Black Flake
by
DAngelico
Jazz
Blues
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
This Premier Mini DC is a seriously cool little axe. The short scale makes it incredibly comfortable, especially for players used to guitars or bass, and those Supro pickups give you a surprisingly thick, vintage tone. It's perfect for gigging musicians needing a compact, versatile instrument or anyone looking for a unique, boutique feel without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Maple laminate top delivers surprisingly rich, resonant tone.
- • Narrow 'C' neck profile offers comfortable playability for smaller hands.
- • Supro Bolt Bucker A5 humbuckers provide a warm, vintage-inspired growl.
- • Grover Rotomatic tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability and smooth action.
CONS
- • Semi-hollow body construction can be prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • Pau Ferro fingerboard might feel slightly less slick than rosewood for some players.
- • The 'Mini' scale length limits low-end extension compared to full-size guitars.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 611080
$879
#5
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
DAngelico Excel SS Soho Dark Cherry Burs
by
DAngelico
Rockabilly
Clean Tones
Jazz
Key Feature:
The D’Angelico Excel SS Soho is a seriously cool semi-hollow that nails that vintage jazz vibe. The neck profile is a real winner – easy to play for hours. It’s perfect for players seeking a refined, articulate tone without the premium price tag of a full-on archtop.
PROS
- • Laminated spruce top delivers a surprisingly resonant, airy tone.
- • Walnut-reinforced maple neck provides excellent stability and comfortable feel.
- • Kent Armstrong Jazzy Joe pickup offers a warm, articulate jazz tone.
- • Macassar ebony pickguard adds a touch of class and visual appeal.
CONS
- • The hollowbody construction makes it prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • Limited pickup versatility; primarily suited for jazz and blues.
- • Laminated construction, while cost-effective, lacks the premium character of solid wood.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 565076
$2,199
#6
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
DAngelico Premier DC Solid Black
by
DAngelico
Clean Tones
Jazz
Rockabilly
Key Feature:
The Premier DC Solid Black is a solid choice for players wanting a semi-hollow vibe without the hollow body resonance. The maple construction gives it a punchy, focused tone that's great for rock, blues, and even some heavier styles. It's a well-built instrument offering a lot of value for the price, particularly appealing to gigging musicians.
PROS
- • Maple body provides a tight, focused tone with good sustain.
- • Walnut fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience and warm tonal character.
- • D’Angelico humbuckers deliver a versatile range, from bluesy grit to rock crunch.
- • Stairstep machine heads ensure stable tuning and a touch of vintage aesthetic.
CONS
- • Maple body can feel a bit dense, potentially making it less comfortable for extended playing.
- • 24.75” scale length might feel cramped for players accustomed to longer scales.
- • While versatile, the humbuckers aren't ideal for pristine, clean jazz tones.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 610070
$659
#7
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
DAngelico Premier SS Dark Iced Tea Burst
by
DAngelico
Clean Tones
Blues
Country
Key Feature:
The Premier SS is a seriously cool semi-hollow – that Dark Iced Tea Burst finish is gorgeous. It’s got a real vintage vibe thanks to the Supro pickups and the maple construction lends itself to a warm, punchy sound. This is a great option for gigging musicians who want a stage-ready instrument with a distinct personality.
PROS
- • Maple laminate construction provides a balanced, articulate tone with warmth.
- • Supro Bolt Bucker A2 pickups deliver a surprisingly aggressive, vintage-inspired sound.
- • Pau ferro fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience and a slightly warmer feel than rosewood.
- • Grover Rotomatic tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability, a premium touch at this price.
CONS
- • The maple body, while tonally pleasing, can make it a bit heavier than some players prefer.
- • The shorter 635mm scale length might feel cramped for players accustomed to longer scales.
- • While versatile, the pickup voicing leans towards rock and blues; lacks pristine clean tones.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 577876
$879
#8
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
DAngelico Premier SS Solid Black
by
DAngelico
Jazz
Country
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
The Premier SS is a solid choice for players wanting that semi-hollow vibe without the top-tier price tag. It's surprisingly versatile thanks to the humbucker, and the neck profile is a real winner for comfortable playing. This is a great instrument for gigging musicians and aspiring studio players looking for a reliable, good-sounding guitar.
PROS
- • Laminated maple construction delivers a warm, focused resonance.
- • Walnut fingerboard provides a smooth, comfortable playing experience.
- • D'Angelico humbucker offers a powerful, versatile tonal palette.
- • Stairstep machine heads ensure precise and stable tuning.
CONS
- • The shorter 635mm scale might feel cramped for players used to longer scales.
- • Limited pickup options restrict tonal versatility compared to more premium models.
- • Maple laminate construction, while good, isn't as acoustically resonant as all-solid wood.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 606869
$714
#9
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
DAngelico Excel Mini DC Viola
by
DAngelico
Country
Clean Tones
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
The D’Angelico Excel Mini DC Viola is a seriously cool little axe. It’s surprisingly versatile, offering a vintage-inspired tone with modern playability, making it ideal for gigging musicians or those seeking a comfortable, stage-friendly guitar. The build quality is excellent, and the included Seymour Duncan pickups deliver a punchy, articulate sound.
PROS
- • Laminated flamed maple top delivers a rich, warm tone with surprising projection
- • Seymour Duncan 59s offer classic humbucker bite and sustain
- • Slim C neck profile provides comfortable, fast playability for various styles
- • Grover Rotomatics ensure rock-solid tuning stability, a welcome touch at this level
CONS
- • The shorter scale length limits low-end extension compared to full-size guitars
- • Laminated construction, while practical, lacks the complexity of solid wood
- • Viola finish can be a bit polarizing – not universally appealing
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 515160
$1,648
#10
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
DAngelico Premier Mini DC Dark Ice Tea
by
DAngelico
Jazz
Blues
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
The Premier Mini DC Dark Ice Tea is a surprisingly versatile and well-built instrument. Its smaller size makes it exceptionally comfortable, while the Supro pickups provide a warm, punchy tone that's fantastic for blues, jazz, and rock. It’s a premium-priced option ideal for gigging musicians or those wanting a semi-hollow experience in a more manageable package.
PROS
- • Maple construction delivers bright, articulate tones with sustain
- • Narrow 'C' neck profile is comfortable for various hand sizes and playing styles
- • Supro Bolt Bucker A5 humbuckers offer a vintage-inspired, powerful sound
- • Solid Scalini pickguard adds a touch of classic D’Angelico aesthetic
CONS
- • Semi-hollow body construction can be prone to feedback at higher volumes
- • Dark Iced Tea Burst finish might not appeal to all players' tastes
- • 24.75 in scale length may feel cramped for players accustomed to longer scales
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 611078
$897
#11
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
DAngelico Excel DC Vintage Natural
by
DAngelico
Vintage Style
Jazz
Rockabilly
Key Feature:
This DAngelico Excel DC is a seriously well-equipped semi-hollow, offering a vintage vibe and powerful tones. It’s a great option for players seeking a comfortable neck, warm pickups, and a touch of class—perfect for blues, jazz, and classic rock styles.
PROS
- • Seymour Duncan 59s deliver a thick, warm, and articulate vintage tone.
- • Slim C neck profile offers comfortable playability for a wide range of players.
- • Laminated maple construction provides excellent resonance and sustain.
- • Grover Rotomatic tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability and smooth action.
CONS
- • Semi-hollow body can be prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • Vintage Natural finish might show minor imperfections under close inspection.
- • Scale length leans towards shorter, potentially limiting extended range playing.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 515002
$1,594
#12
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
DAngelico Premier DC Black Flake V2
by
DAngelico
Jazz
Country
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
The D'Angelico Premier DC Black Flake V2 is a seriously cool semi-hollow that nails that vintage vibe. It’s got a comfortable feel and those Supro pickups give it a really warm, punchy tone, perfect for blues, jazz, and classic rock players who want something with character. A great option for players looking for a stylish and versatile instrument without breaking the bank.
PROS
- • Maple laminate construction offers a balanced, resonant tone.
- • Supro Bolt Bucker A5 pickups deliver a warm, articulate vintage vibe.
- • Narrow 'C' neck profile promotes comfortable, fast playing for most.
- • 5-Ply binding and Tortoise Scalini pickguard elevate the aesthetic appeal.
CONS
- • The maple body, while resonant, can be a bit on the heavier side.
- • The shorter scale length limits low-end extension compared to longer scale guitars.
- • The 3-way pickup switch offers limited tonal flexibility for some players.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 580392
$879
#13
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
DAngelico Excel DC Trans Cherry
by
DAngelico
Jazz
Rockabilly
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
This D'Angelico Excel DC is a seriously well-equipped semi-hollow. The Seymour Duncan pickups and comfortable neck make it a joy to play, and the coil-splitting gives you a lot of tonal options. It's a fantastic choice for players wanting a vintage-inspired vibe with modern features, especially those into classic rock and blues.
PROS
- • Seymour Duncan '59s deliver thick, warm tones ideal for rock and blues.
- • Maple construction provides focused resonance and clear articulation.
- • Narrow 'C' neck profile offers comfortable playability for a wide range of players.
- • Push/pull coil splitting adds versatility, covering humbucker and single-coil sounds.
CONS
- • The laminated construction, while structurally sound, lacks the depth of solid wood.
- • The Trans Cherry finish, while beautiful, can be prone to fingerprints and smudging.
- • The shorter scale length might feel cramped for players accustomed to longer scales.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 552177
$1,814
#14
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
DAngelico Excel DC XT Vintage Nat Quilt
by
DAngelico
Country
Jazz
Rockabilly
Key Feature:
This D'Angelico DC XT is a seriously cool semi-hollow that nails that vintage vibe. The Seymour Duncan pickups give it a warm, articulate tone perfect for blues, jazz, and classic rock players who want a comfortable, well-built instrument with a touch of class.
PROS
- • Seymour Duncan 59s deliver authentic vintage humbucker warmth and bite.
- • Narrow 'C' neck profile promotes comfortable playability across the fretboard.
- • Laminated maple construction provides a balanced, resonant tone with sustain.
- • Grover 150 tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability, even with aggressive playing.
CONS
- • The semi-hollow body makes it somewhat prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • Rosewood fretboard, while classic, might feel a touch dry for some players.
- • The vintage aesthetic, while appealing, limits its versatility for modern genres.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 552150
$1,869
#15
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
DAngelico Premier DC Burnt Red
by
DAngelico
Blues
Rockabilly
Country
Key Feature:
The Premier DC Burnt Red is a seriously cool semi-hollow. It’s got a sweet, comfortable feel and those DAngelico pickups give you a real punch for rock, blues, and even some jazzy tones. This is a great choice for players wanting a classy look and versatile sound without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Maple body provides focused, articulate tone with warmth
- • inCin neck profile offers exceptional comfort and playability
- • DAngelico humbuckers deliver a thick, versatile, rock-ready sound
- • 5-Ply binding adds a touch of elegance and quality craftsmanship
CONS
- • Semi-hollow construction might introduce feedback at high volumes
- • 24.75in scale length isn't ideal for all playing styles or genres
- • Burnt Red finish can be prone to fingerprints and smudging
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 610073
$703
How to Choose the Best Semiacoustic Guitars
1
Heritage & Design
D'Angelico's history is rooted in high-end archtops, and that legacy informs their semi-acoustic designs. You'll find those signature Art Deco appointments, the carved tops, and a certain elegance that's missing from many modern guitars. It's not just aesthetics; it influences the resonance.
2
Tone Characteristics
Expect a warm, woody low-end with a surprising amount of projection. The semi-hollow construction gives you more sustain and a livelier response than a solid body, but it's still controllable enough to avoid excessive feedback on stage. The pickup voicing tends toward a vintage vibe, which is great for jazz, blues, and classic rock, but might need tweaking for heavier genres.
3
Build Quality
D'Angelico's build quality has fluctuated over the years, but generally, you're getting a well-made instrument. The necks are typically comfortable, though neck profiles can vary - some lean toward a vintage C, others a more modern D. Hardware is generally solid, though some earlier models might benefit from an upgrade to better tuners.
4
Feedback Resistance
The f-holes and body chambering do introduce the potential for feedback at higher volumes, but D'Angelico's designs generally manage this well. Still, be mindful of your amp placement and gain staging, especially in live settings. A little strategic EQ can work wonders.
5
Versatility
While they shine in certain genres, D'Angelico semi-acoustics are surprisingly versatile. They can handle clean jazz tones, crunchy blues rhythms, and even some rock, though you might want to experiment with different pickups or effects to get the exact sound you're after. Don't expect ice-picky high frequencies - the voicing is smoother.
Buying Guide
D'Angelico's have gone through different production phases, so be aware of the build quality associated with the specific era. Older models (pre-2010) often have a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship, but newer ones are generally solid. Don't get hung up on the fancy appointments - focus on the neck feel and the overall tone. And seriously, try before you buy; that body resonance is something you need to feel.
Our Methodology
We're not basing this on marketing brochures. We've spent countless hours playing these guitars - in rehearsal rooms, on stage, and tracking in studios. Our evaluations are based on how they feel in your hands, how they respond to your playing, and how they translate to a recording, always compared to other guitars in the same price bracket. It's about real-world performance, not spec sheets.
Frequently Asked Questions
That depends. You're paying for the aesthetics and the heritage as much as the raw performance. They're not objectively 'better' than a comparable Gibson or Fender, but they offer a unique vibe and tone that might be perfect for you.
They excel in jazz, blues, and classic rock. Think clean, warm tones with plenty of sustain. They can handle rock, but you might need to tweak the pickups or add some overdrive to get a more aggressive sound.
Generally, yes. Neck profiles vary, so try before you buy. Some are vintage-feeling C shapes, while others are more modern D shapes. It's a personal preference.
Semi-hollow guitars are more prone to feedback than solid-body guitars. Be mindful of your amp placement and gain staging, especially at high volumes. EQ adjustments can help mitigate feedback issues.
D'Angelicos offer various pickup combinations (humbuckers, P90s, single-coils). Humbuckers offer more output and warmth, P90s have a gritty, mid-range honk, and single-coils are brighter and more articulate. Choose based on your desired tone.
