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: June 17, 2026 • Next update: June 24, 2026
⚡ The best semiacoustic guitars in 2026 are Epiphone ES-335 Vintage Sunburst (top pick), Epiphone ES-335 Figured Tea Burst for tighter budgets, and Epiphone Noel Gallagher Riviera for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $529–$1,428, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Epiphone ES-335 Vintage Sunburst
by
Epiphone
Vintage Style
Rockabilly
Blues
Key Feature:
This Epiphone ES-335 is a seriously solid entry point into the semi-hollow world. The maple construction gives it a nice focused tone, and the Alnico Classic Pro pickups nail that vintage vibe. It's a fantastic choice for blues, jazz, and classic rock players looking for a ton of character without spending a fortune.
PROS
- • Maple top provides excellent clarity and sustain
- • Rounded C neck profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes
- • Alnico Classic Pro pickups deliver a warm, vintage-inspired tone
- • LockTone hardware enhances tuning stability and overall build quality
CONS
- • Maple construction can be somewhat dense, contributing to a heavier instrument
- • Vintage Sunburst finish may exhibit slight variations in appearance
- • While versatile, it leans toward warmer tones; high-gain genres might feel limited
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 501059
$582
#2
⭐
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
#3
⭐
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
#4
⭐
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
#5
⭐
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
#6
⭐
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
#7
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Epiphone Riviera Sparkling Burgundy
by
Epiphone
Vintage Style
Rockabilly
Blues
Key Feature:
This Riviera Sparkling Burgundy is a seriously cool package. It's a semi-hollow that's surprisingly versatile – great for jazz, blues, and classic rock – and the neck profile is super comfortable. If you’re looking for that vintage vibe and a refined aesthetic without a premium price tag, this is a fantastic choice.
PROS
- • Laminated maple body provides warm, resonant tone with surprising projection
- • Rounded C neck profile offers comfortable playability for a wide range of players
- • Epiphone Pro Mini humbuckers deliver focused, articulate tone, avoiding muddiness
- • Indian Laurel fretboard contributes to a smooth, snappy feel and bright upper harmonics
CONS
- • Sparkling Burgundy finish, while striking, might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences
- • Semi-hollow construction can be prone to feedback at higher volumes without careful amp settings
- • While versatile, it leans towards cleaner tones and might require pedals for heavier distortion
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 502010
$626
#8
⭐
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
#9
⭐
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
#10
⭐
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
#11
⭐
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
#12
⭐
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
#13
⭐
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
#14
⭐
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
#15
⭐
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
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.
