Best Epiphone Semiacoustic Guitars 2026
Alright, so you're digging the hollowbody vibe, the resonance, the potential for that woody warmth - but you need something gig-ready and won't break the bank? Epiphone's semi-acoustic guitars are your sweet spot. They've been around forever, riding the coattails of Gibson's legacy, but they've carved out their own space, offering a lot of bang for your buck. Let's break down the best Epiphone semi-acoustics and see which one suits your needs.
Last updated: July 8, 2026 • Next update: July 15, 2026
⚡ The best semiacoustic guitars in 2026 are Epiphone Jim James ES-335 70s WF (top pick), Epiphone Noel Gallagher Riviera for tighter budgets, and Epiphone Riviera Royal Tan for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $532–$3,012, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Epiphone Jim James ES-335 70s WF
by
Epiphone
Vintage Style
Country
Blues
Key Feature:
This Epiphone Jim James ES-335 70s WF is a fantastic offering for players seeking a vintage-inspired semi-hollow experience. Jim James’ signature neck profile makes it a joy to play, and those Alnico Classic Pro pickups deliver a surprisingly versatile range of tones, from mellow cleans to gritty overdrive. It’s a great choice for blues, rock, and Americana players who want a premium-feeling instrument without the high-end price tag.
PROS
- • Maple top provides excellent clarity and sustain.
- • Jim James Custom Slim Taper neck is exceptionally comfortable and fast.
- • Alnico Classic Pro pickups deliver a warm, vintage-inspired tone.
- • Kluson waffleback tuners offer reliable tuning stability.
CONS
- • The semi-hollow body can be prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • Walnut finish, while beautiful, might be a fingerprint magnet.
- • While versatile, it leans towards warmer tones, limiting extreme high-gain applications.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 561464
$879
#2
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Epiphone Noel Gallagher Riviera
by
Epiphone
Country
Clean Tones
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
This Epiphone Noel Gallagher Riviera is a seriously cool semi-hollow, nailing that Britpop vibe with a touch of vintage elegance. It's a great option for players seeking a distinctive sound and feel without a premium-priced tag – perfect for rhythm guitarists and those looking for a comfortable, versatile instrument.
PROS
- • 5-ply maple body delivers a warm, resonant tone with surprising sustain.
- • Alnico Classic Pro pickups offer a versatile range, from chimey cleans to driven overdrive.
- • Slim Taper C neck profile provides comfortable playability for extended gigs and practice.
- • Hardshell case included offers excellent protection and makes transport a breeze.
CONS
- • Semi-hollow construction can be prone to feedback at high volumes.
- • 24.75” scale length might feel cramped for players used to longer scales.
- • Indian Laurel fretboard, while good, isn't quite as premium as Ebony or Rosewood.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 545640
$901
#3
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Epiphone Riviera Royal Tan
by
Epiphone
Jazz
Clean Tones
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
The Riviera Royal Tan is a seriously cool semi-hollow that nails that vintage vibe. It's a fantastic option for players craving a warm, woody tone and comfortable neck – ideal for blues, jazz, and classic rock without the premium-priced tag. It's a great all-around instrument that’s easy to pick up and play.
PROS
- • Laminated maple body delivers a warm, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Rounded C neck profile offers comfortable playability for a wide range of players.
- • Epiphone Pro Mini humbuckers provide a focused, articulate sound with plenty of punch.
- • Indian Laurel fretboard provides a smooth, responsive feel and pleasing aesthetics.
CONS
- • Royal Tan finish, while attractive, can be prone to fingerprints and smudging.
- • Lighter gauge strings may be desirable for optimal playability given the semi-hollow construction.
- • While versatile, the pickups lean towards classic rock and blues; modern high-gain tones may be limited.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 502006
$659
#4
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Epiphone Sheraton Natural
by
Epiphone
Country
Vintage Style
Jazz
Key Feature:
The Sheraton Natural is a solid choice for players wanting a vintage-inspired semi-hollow feel. It nails that classic ES-335 vibe, offering a warm, woody tone perfect for blues, jazz, and rock. A great instrument for gigging musicians on a budget who appreciate a comfortable neck and decent pickups.
PROS
- • Laminated maple body delivers a warm, resonant acoustic tone.
- • Slim taper neck provides excellent playability and comfortable feel.
- • Epiphone ProBucker Mini Humbuckers offer focused, articulate output.
- • LockTone hardware enhances tuning stability and sustain.
CONS
- • The 'Frequensator' tailpiece is purely cosmetic and offers no functional benefit.
- • Laminated construction, while good sounding, lacks the clarity of a solid body.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to guitars with more pickup options.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 567293
$855
#5
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Epiphone ES-335 Vintage Sunburst w/Case
by
Epiphone
Rockabilly
Jazz
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
This Epiphone ES-335 is a solid entry point into the semi-hollow world. It nails that classic 335 vibe—warm, woody, and responsive—without the premium price tag. It’s a fantastic option for blues, jazz, and rock players looking for authentic tone and comfortable feel.
PROS
- • Maple top delivers focused, articulate highs and a pleasing sustain.
- • Alnico Classic Pro humbuckers offer a warm, vintage-inspired tone.
- • Rounded C neck profile provides comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
- • Deluxe machine heads ensure stable tuning and easy adjustments.
CONS
- • The maple construction can feel a bit dense, making it somewhat heavier.
- • While versatile, it leans towards warmer tones; high-gain shredding isn't its forte.
- • Binding quality, while present, isn't quite as refined as higher-end models.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 538653
$681
#6
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Epiphone 1959 ES-355 Classic White VOS
by
Epiphone
Vintage Style
Blues
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
This Epiphone ES-355 VOS is a seriously impressive instrument, offering a lot of the Gibson vibe at a more accessible price point. The build quality is solid, the Custombuckers sound fantastic for blues, jazz, and classic rock tones, and the vintage aesthetics are spot-on. It’s a great choice for players wanting that semi-hollow warmth and style without needing to spend a fortune.
PROS
- • The Gibson Custombucker pickups deliver a surprisingly authentic, thick, and articulate tone.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides exceptional clarity, sustain, and a smooth playing experience.
- • The VOS finish replicates vintage wear beautifully, adding character and visual appeal.
- • Grover Rotomatics offer precise tuning stability, crucial for a semi-hollowbody instrument.
CONS
- • The substantial maple construction makes it noticeably heavier than many guitars.
- • While versatile, its tone leans towards warmer styles, limiting extreme high-gain applications.
- • The rounded C neck profile might not suit players preferring a flatter, modern feel.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 588023
$1,374
#7
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Epiphone 1962 ES-335 Reissue Sixties Ch
by
Epiphone
Clean Tones
Rockabilly
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Epiphone 335 Reissue is a fantastic entry point to the semi-hollow sound. It nails the vintage aesthetics and feel remarkably well, offering a sweet spot between affordability and quality. Ideal for players wanting that classic ES-335 vibe for blues, rock, and jazz without the premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • 5-ply maple/poplar construction delivers a warm, resonant tone.
- • Gibson Custombucker pickups offer a surprisingly authentic vintage vibe.
- • Slim taper neck profile provides excellent playability and comfort.
- • Deluxe machine heads ensure reliable tuning stability and ease of use.
CONS
- • The semi-hollow body makes it prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • Sixties Cherry finish can be a bit thick and less nuanced than some.
- • Weight is noticeable, especially during extended playing sessions.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 614931
$1,374
#8
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Epiphone Dave Grohl DG-335 Pelham Blue
by
Epiphone
Blues
Clean Tones
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Epiphone Dave Grohl DG-335 is a seriously cool semi-hollow that nails that vintage 335 vibe. The Burstbucker pickups are a real highlight – thick and punchy, perfect for rock, blues, and even some heavier styles. It's a great option for players wanting a classic look and feel without the premium-priced tag of a Gibson.
PROS
- • Burstbucker pickups deliver a thick, powerful, vintage-voiced tone.
- • Mahogany neck provides a warm, resonant feel and excellent sustain.
- • Pelham Blue finish is striking and offers a unique aesthetic appeal.
- • CTS pots and Mallory caps enhance the overall tone and responsiveness.
CONS
- • Semi-hollow body makes it prone to feedback at higher volumes, requires care.
- • Relatively heavy for extended playing sessions, a consideration for some players.
- • 24.75” scale might feel cramped for players accustomed to longer scales.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 580598
$1,099
#9
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Epiphone Marty Schwartz ES-335 SC
by
Epiphone
Vintage Style
Clean Tones
Country
Key Feature:
This Marty Schwartz ES-335 SC is a fantastic option for players seeking a semi-hollow tone and vintage vibe on a budget. The build quality is surprisingly good for the price point, and those humbuckers deliver a warm, punchy sound that's ideal for blues, rock, and even some jazz. It’s a serious contender for anyone wanting that classic 335 feel without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • AAA maple veneer top delivers a bright, focused, and resonant tone.
- • Alnico Classic Pro pickups offer a surprisingly thick and articulate vintage-inspired sound.
- • The '60s Slim Taper neck profile is exceptionally comfortable for fast playing.
- • Grover Rotomatic tuners provide reliable tuning stability and a premium feel.
CONS
- • Laminated maple construction, while affordable, lacks the outright resonance of solid wood.
- • Coil-splitting, while present, might sound thin compared to dedicated single-coil pickups.
- • The weight can be a factor for extended playing sessions; expect around 8.5 lbs.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 568078
$934
#10
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Epiphone Casino Natural w/ Epi Pro P90
by
Epiphone
Rockabilly
Jazz
Country
Key Feature:
This Epiphone Casino with the Pro P90s is a fantastic value. It nails that hollow-body vibe – think early Beatles, blues, and garage rock – without the premium price tag. The neck is easy to play, and the P90s have a surprisingly powerful, raw tone that’s a real joy to dial in.
PROS
- • Maple laminate body offers a balanced, resonant tone.
- • Epi Pro P90s deliver thick, creamy vintage-inspired grit.
- • Mahogany neck provides comfortable playability and warm sustain.
- • Cream binding and sloped headstock add a touch of classic elegance.
CONS
- • Laminated construction lacks the complexity of solid-body instruments.
- • The shorter scale length limits low-end extension for basslines.
- • P90 pickups can be noisy at higher gain settings.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 568063
$703
#11
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Epiphone ES-339 Vintage Sunburst w/Bag
by
Epiphone
Rockabilly
Country
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Epiphone ES-339 is a fantastic entry point into the semi-hollow world. It’s got that classic 335 vibe – think blues, jazz, and rock – without the premium price tag. A great choice for gigging musicians or players looking for a versatile, inspiring instrument.
PROS
- • Maple construction provides a focused, articulate tone with good sustain.
- • Alnico Classic Pro humbuckers deliver a warm, bluesy growl with surprising clarity.
- • Rounded C neck profile offers comfortable playability for a wide range of players.
- • Grover Rotomatics provide reliable tuning stability, a welcome upgrade.
CONS
- • The semi-hollow body can be prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • While well-built, the hardware isn't quite as premium as higher-end models.
- • The shorter scale length limits low-end extension compared to full-size guitars.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 538667
$549
#12
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Epiphone USA Casino Vintage Sunburst
by
Epiphone
Blues
Jazz
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
This USA Casino is a serious contender for players wanting that classic hollowbody vibe. The P-90s deliver a snarling, bluesy tone, and the build quality is genuinely impressive for a semi-acoustic. It's a fantastic choice for blues, rock, and jazz players who appreciate vintage character and a comfortable neck.
PROS
- • Maple/poplar laminate construction delivers focused, resonant tone.
- • Gibson USA P-90s provide thick, gritty vintage character.
- • Handwired electronics with Orange Drop caps enhance signal clarity.
- • Rounded C neck profile offers comfortable, familiar playing feel.
CONS
- • Hollowbody construction makes it prone to feedback at high volumes.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to solid-body guitars.
- • Weight can be a factor for extended playing sessions.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 515194
$3,013
#13
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Epiphone 1962 ES-335 Reissue Vintage Bu
by
Epiphone
Jazz
Clean Tones
Rockabilly
Key Feature:
This Epiphone 335 is a seriously impressive reissue. It nails the vintage vibe with its Slim Taper neck and those Custombucker pickups, delivering a warm, articulate tone perfect for blues, jazz, and classic rock. It's an outstanding option for players wanting that iconic ES-335 feel and sound without the premium price tag of a Gibson.
PROS
- • Solid maple/poplar construction delivers surprising resonance and clarity.
- • Gibson Custombucker pickups offer authentic vintage humbucker tones.
- • The '60s Slim Taper neck is exceptionally comfortable for extended playing.
- • Quality hardware, including the Tune-O-Matic bridge, enhances tuning stability.
CONS
- • The semi-hollow body contributes to a noticeable weight, potentially tiring for some.
- • While a great value, the poplar core limits the sustain compared to all-mahogany models.
- • The vintage burst finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be prone to fingerprints.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 614933
$1,374
#14
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Epiphone Emperor Swingster Forest Green
by
Epiphone
Country
Rockabilly
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
The Emperor Swingster Forest Green is a seriously cool-looking and great-sounding semi-hollow. It's got that vintage vibe and feel without the premium price tag – perfect for players who dig a warm, woody tone and a touch of tremolo shimmer for blues, jazz, or classic rock. It’s a real winner for the discerning guitarist wanting something a bit different.
PROS
- • Laminated maple construction delivers a warm, resonant tone with surprising clarity
- • Slim taper neck profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes
- • SwingBucker pickups provide a thick, vintage-inspired voice with excellent sustain
- • Bigsby tremolo adds expressive vibrato without sacrificing tuning stability
CONS
- • The hollow body can be prone to feedback at higher volumes without careful EQing
- • Forest Green Metallic finish, while striking, might not appeal to all players
- • While versatile, it's not a shred machine – better suited to blues, jazz, and rock
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 502013
$824
#15
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Epiphone ES-339 Cherry
by
Epiphone
Country
Jazz
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
The Epiphone ES-339 Cherry is a fantastic entry point into the semi-hollow world. It nails that classic ES-335 vibe without the premium price tag, offering a surprisingly versatile range from bluesy warmth to crunchy rock tones. This is a sweet deal for gigging musicians or players wanting a distinctive look and feel.
PROS
- • Maple top provides a bright, articulate tone with pleasing sustain.
- • Alnico Classic Pro pickups deliver a warm, punchy vintage-inspired sound.
- • Rounded C neck profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
- • Grover Rotomatics provide reliable tuning stability and a premium feel.
CONS
- • Maple construction can be somewhat bright; may need EQ to tame high frequencies.
- • Semi-hollow body makes it more prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • While well-built, hardware isn't quite as refined as higher-end models.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 501070
$532
How to Choose the Best Semiacoustic Guitars
1
Heritage & Gibson Connection
Epiphone's history is deeply intertwined with Gibson. While they're not Gibson clones, they benefit from that lineage, often incorporating design elements and construction techniques that evoke that classic vintage feel - even if the components are different.
2
Tone Characteristics
Expect a warmer, more resonant tone than a solid-body guitar. The semi-hollow construction adds a natural reverb and a 'bloom' to the sound, which can be fantastic for jazz, blues, and even rock. However, that resonance can also lead to feedback at higher volumes if you're not careful.
3
Build Quality & Hardware
Epiphone's build quality has improved significantly over the years. You'll find decent Grover tuners on many models, but the pickups are often the first upgrade players make. The hardware is generally reliable, but don't expect boutique-level components - it's a trade-off for the price.
4
Neck Profile & Playability
Neck profiles vary across models, so try before you buy if possible. Some have a slimmer, more modern feel, while others lean towards a thicker, vintage-style profile. A comfortable neck is crucial for extended gigs and practice sessions.
5
Feedback Resistance
Semi-hollow guitars are inherently more prone to feedback than solids. Epiphone often uses features like center blocks to mitigate this, but it's still something to consider, especially if you play loud or use high-gain amps. Understanding your amp's headroom is key.
Buying Guide
Look beyond the flashy finishes and focus on the core construction. The pickups are almost always the first thing to upgrade - consider a set of Seymours or similar. Don't be afraid of older models; often, the '50s and '60s Epiphone Elites offer incredible value. Pay attention to the neck; a comfortable neck profile is worth more than fancy hardware.
Our Methodology
We aren't just looking at spec sheets here. We've spent countless hours playing these guitars through a variety of amps - from clean Fender Twins to cranked Marshall stacks - and in band rehearsal settings. We've A/B'd them against their Gibson counterparts (when possible) and focused on how they feel and sound in real-world scenarios, not just on paper.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they aren't. But for the price, they offer a surprising amount of the Gibson vibe. Think of them as a gateway drug to that hollowbody sound - a fantastic starting point before dropping serious cash.
Potentially. Semi-hollows are more prone to feedback. Experiment with amp placement, pickup height adjustments, and consider a noise gate if you play loud.
They're versatile! Blues, jazz, rock, even some indie styles benefit from that warmth and resonance. But they're not ideal for super-aggressive metal where you need tight, focused tone.
Almost certainly. The stock pickups are usually adequate, but a simple upgrade can unlock a whole new level of tone and clarity. It's a relatively inexpensive mod that makes a big difference.
A semi-hollow has a solid center block running through the body, which helps reduce feedback and adds sustain. A fully hollow body has no center block, offering more resonance and a more 'open' sound, but is more prone to feedback.
