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: May 27, 2026 • Next update: June 3, 2026
#1
⭐
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
#2
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Epiphone ES-335 Figured Blueberry Burst
by
Epiphone
Blues
Jazz
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
This Epiphone ES-335 Blueberry Burst is a seriously impressive package. It nails the classic 335 vibe with a gorgeous top and those Alnico pickups give you a really sweet, vintage-inspired tone. It's perfect for blues, rock, and jazz players wanting a semi-hollow experience without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Flamed maple veneer offers a surprisingly upscale aesthetic.
- • Alnico Classic Pro pickups deliver a warm, articulate vintage tone.
- • Rounded C neck profile is comfortable for a wide range of players.
- • LockTone hardware enhances tuning stability and sustain.
CONS
- • The weight can be noticeable during extended playing sessions.
- • While versatile, the semi-hollow construction isn't ideal for high-gain metal.
- • Indian Laurel fretboard, while nice, lacks the seasoned feel of rosewood.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 501051
$659
#3
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Epiphone ES-335 Figured Tea Burst
by
Epiphone
Blues
Rockabilly
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Epiphone ES-335 is a fantastic entry point into the semi-hollow world. It’s got a great vibe, a comfortable neck, and those Alnico Pro pickups give you a real vintage tone. Ideal for blues, rock, and jazz players looking for that classic 335 feel without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Flamed maple veneer top delivers a visually appealing, resonant tone
- • Mahogany neck offers comfortable playability and warm sustain
- • Alnico Classic Pro pickups provide a versatile, classic humbucker voice
- • LockTone hardware enhances tuning stability and overall build quality
CONS
- • The figured veneer can sometimes feel a bit thin and less premium
- • While versatile, it leans towards warmer tones, limiting extreme high-gain styles
- • Weight can be noticeable after extended playing sessions due to the semi-hollow construction
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 501055
$658
#4
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Epiphone ES-335 Cherry
by
Epiphone
Country
Vintage Style
Rockabilly
Key Feature:
This Epiphone ES-335 Cherry is a fantastic entry point into the semi-hollow world. It nails that classic 335 vibe with a surprisingly punchy tone thanks to the Alnico Pro pickups and a comfortable neck. It's a great choice for gigging musicians or players wanting a versatile instrument without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Maple top provides focused, articulate highs and sustain
- • Mahogany neck offers comfortable, rounded 'C' profile playability
- • Alnico Classic Pro pickups deliver a warm, vintage-inspired tone
- • LockTone hardware enhances tuning stability and resonance
CONS
- • Cherry finish can be prone to nitrocellulose checking with age
- • Maple construction can feel somewhat dense and less resonant than ash
- • Limited pickup options restrict versatility compared to higher-end models
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 501057
$549
#5
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Epiphone Shinichi Ubukata ES-355 Olive
by
Epiphone
Blues
Country
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
This Epiphone Shinichi Ubukata ES-355 Olive is a seriously well-equipped semi-hollow. It’s got that classic ES-335 vibe, but with a few premium touches – the ebony board is a huge win. It’s perfect for players seeking a versatile, vintage-voiced instrument for blues, jazz, or lighter rock without the high-end price tag.
PROS
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and sustain.
- • Gibson '57 Classic humbuckers deliver authentic vintage tone.
- • Mahogany neck provides comfortable, rounded 'C' profile feel.
- • Bigsby B70 adds vibrato capability with reliable tuning.
CONS
- • Olive Drab finish might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
- • Semi-hollow body can be prone to feedback at high volumes.
- • Weight, typical of maple bodies, could be tiring for some players.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 576896
$1,429
#6
⭐
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
#7
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Epiphone Shinichi Ubukata ES-355 Ebony
by
Epiphone
Rockabilly
Vintage Style
Blues
Key Feature:
This Epiphone Shinichi Ubukata ES-355 Ebony is a serious contender for players wanting that classic ES-335 vibe without the Gibson price tag. The ebony board and '57 Classic pickups really deliver a warm, articulate tone that's fantastic for jazz, blues, and rock. It's a premium-priced instrument that offers a lot of value for the money.
PROS
- • Ebony fretboard offers exceptional feel and note clarity.
- • Gibson ’57 Classics deliver authentic vintage humbucker tones.
- • Mahogany neck provides comfortable, rounded 'C' profile playability.
- • Bigsby B70 adds vibrato and stylistic flair, well-integrated.
CONS
- • Ebony can be brittle; requires careful string changes and fretwork.
- • Semi-hollow construction can be prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • Maple body can feel a bit dense and weighty for some players.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 576895
$1,429
#8
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Epiphone USA Casino Royal Tan
by
Epiphone
Jazz
Rockabilly
Country
Key Feature:
This Epiphone Casino Royal Tan is a serious contender for players craving that classic hollowbody vibe. The USA build quality and Gibson P-90s deliver a punchy, raw tone perfect for blues, rock, and jazz. It's an excellent choice for those who appreciate vintage character and don't need a super versatile workhorse.
PROS
- • Maple/poplar laminate construction delivers focused, articulate resonance.
- • Gibson USA P-90s provide a raw, aggressive vintage tone.
- • Handwired electronics with Orange Drop caps enhance signal clarity and warmth.
- • Made in USA quality ensures superior craftsmanship and stability.
CONS
- • The hollowbody construction makes it prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • Royal Tan finish, while beautiful, might be a niche aesthetic preference.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to solid-body guitars.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 515198
$3,069
#9
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Epiphone ES-339 Vintage Sunburst
by
Epiphone
Country
Rockabilly
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
This Epiphone ES-339 is a fantastic entry point into the semi-hollow world. It nails that vintage vibe with its maple construction and Alnico pickups, offering a surprisingly robust tone for the price. It's a solid choice for blues, rock, and jazz players looking for a quality instrument without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Maple top delivers a focused, articulate tone with good sustain
- • Alnico Classic Pro pickups offer a surprisingly powerful and vintage-voiced output
- • Rounded C neck profile is comfortable for a wide range of playing styles
- • Grover Rotomatics provide reliable tuning stability and a premium feel
CONS
- • The maple construction can feel a bit dense and potentially neck-heavy
- • Semi-hollow body makes it more prone to feedback at higher volumes
- • While versatile, it leans towards classic rock and blues; modern metal isn't its forte
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 501069
$529
#10
⭐
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
#11
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Epiphone Sheraton Vintage Sunburst
by
Epiphone
Jazz
Clean Tones
Blues
Key Feature:
This Sheraton is a seriously capable semi-acoustic, nailing that classic hollow-body vibe at a reasonable price. It's a great choice for blues, jazz, and rock players looking for a versatile instrument with a comfortable neck and surprisingly good pickups. The build quality is solid for the price range, making it a real workhorse.
PROS
- • Laminated maple body delivers a warm, resonant tone with sustain
- • Slim taper neck profile provides comfortable, fast playing feel
- • Epiphone ProBucker Mini Humbuckers offer a surprisingly articulate, balanced sound
- • LockTone Tune-o-matic bridge enhances tuning stability and sustain
CONS
- • The vintage sunburst finish can be prone to fingerprints and smudging
- • Body weight might be a factor for players used to lighter guitars
- • Mini humbuckers, while versatile, lack the extreme output of full-size versions
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 567304
$855
#12
⭐
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
#13
⭐
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
#14
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Epiphone 1959 ES-355 Cherry Red VOS
by
Epiphone
Blues
Vintage Style
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
This Epiphone 355 is a serious contender for players craving that semi-hollow vibe. It nails the vintage aesthetic and delivers a surprisingly powerful and warm tone thanks to the Custombucker pickups. Ideal for blues, classic rock, and jazz players who want a premium-feeling instrument without the high-end Gibson price tag.
PROS
- • The Custombucker pickups deliver a surprisingly authentic, thick Gibson-esque tone.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides exceptional clarity and sustain, a premium feel.
- • VOS finish convincingly replicates vintage wear, adding character and appeal.
- • Grover Rotomatics offer smooth, precise tuning stability for reliable performance.
CONS
- • The hollow body makes it prone to feedback at higher volumes, requiring care.
- • Weight can be a factor for extended playing sessions; it's a substantial instrument.
- • While versatile, its inherent character leans towards classic rock and blues styles.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 587984
$1,429
#15
⭐
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
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.
