AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Semiacoustic Guitars for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Classic ($926). Gretsch G2622 Streamliner Center Block Double-Cut with V-Stoptail gives you the most for the money at $643. Evh SA-126 Standard leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 169 models across 22 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 7, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Classic
G5420T EMTC CLS HLW ANV GRN · Gretsch
127 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale625 mm (24.61")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This is a hollowbody electric guitar with a maple body, an arched maple top, and two FT-5E Filter'Tron humbuckers. It has a Classic C maple neck, 22 medium jumbo frets, and a 24.6" scale length. It suits you if you want a classic Gretsch hollowbody with a familiar layout of volume, tone and pickup switch controls.
Pros
- Maple laminated body with an arched maple laminated top gives it a classic hollowbody build
- Two FT-5E Filter'Tron humbuckers, one at the bridge and one at the neck
- Master volume with Treble Bleed circuit, master tone, two volume controls and a 3-way switch
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$926 now$926€829 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gretsch Synchromatic Falcon Hollow-Body Single Cutaway
Synchromatic Falcon BB Black · Gretsch
75 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMaple body
You get a hollow body electric with a maple body, two Filter'Tron humbuckers, and a Bigsby tremolo arm. It suits you if you like to add vibrato and pitch bends to your playing. The black finish with gold hardware and a gold pickguard gives it a striking look.
Pros
- Maple laminated body and top give it a hollow-body build
- Two Hi-Fidelity Filter'Tron humbucker pickups give you two pickup options
- Bigsby tremolo lets you bend pitch with the arm
73AudioFu
Index↓ 5.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,562 · Aug 17$1,478 now$1,478€1,324 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gretsch G2622 Streamliner Center Block Double-Cut with V-Stoptail
G2622T STRML CB DC VLAMB · Gretsch
90 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMaple body
This Gretsch is a fantastic option for players seeking that classic hollow-body vibe without the premium price tag. The Broad'Tron pickups give it a real edge for rockabilly, blues, and garage rock, and the short scale makes it easy to play. It’s a versatile and fun guitar, perfect for gigging musicians or anyone wanting a distinctive look and sound.
Pros
- Broad'Tron pickups deliver a thick, articulate vintage-inspired tone.
- The 24.75” scale provides comfortable playability and a warmer voice.
- Nato neck offers a smooth feel and consistent stability over time.
Cons
- Maple body can feel a bit resonant and potentially feedback-prone at higher volumes.
- Anchored Adjusto-Matic bridge can sometimes require tweaking for optimal intonation.
76AudioFu
Index↓ 0.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$646 · Aug 17$643 now$643€576 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender Tom DeLonge Starcaster
Tom Delonge Starcaster SFG RF · Fender
108 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- BodyMaple body
This is a semi-hollow guitar with a maple laminated body, a centre block, and one Seymour Duncan Custom SH5 humbucker. You get a modern C-shaped neck with 22 medium jumbo frets, so it suits players who want a slim neck with plenty of fret space. It is a good pick if you like Tom Delonge's signature model and a simple setup with one pickup and one volume control.
Pros
- Maple laminated body with a semi-hollow design and centre block
- Seymour Duncan Custom SH5 humbucker pickup
- Roasted maple bolt-on neck with a modern C profile
Cons
- Only one pickup and a single master volume control with treble bleed
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,115 now$1,115€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
PRS SE Custom 24 Semi-Hollow Piezo
SE Custom 24 Semi-Hollow VS · PRS
67 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius254 mm (10")
- BodyMahogany body
This is a semi-hollow electric with a flamed maple top over a mahogany body. It has two humbuckers and a piezo pickup, so you get a choice of electric and acoustic-style tones. The wide, thin neck with 24 frets is easy to reach across, and it comes with a gig bag to carry it.
Pros
- Flamed maple top over a mahogany body with an F-hole
- Two 85/15 S humbuckers plus an L.R. Baggs/PRS piezo pickup
- Wide thin neck with 24 frets and a rosewood fingerboard with bird inlays
Cons
- Piezo has its own volume control, so you need to balance it separately from the magnetic pickups
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,328 now$1,328€1,189 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gretsch Synchromatic Nashville Hollow-Body Single Cutaway
Synchromatic Nashville CG · Gretsch
67 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale625 mm (24.61")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMaple body
You get a hollowbody electric with laminated maple body and top, a maple set neck, and two Hi-Fidelity Filter'Tron humbuckers. The Bigsby tremolo and the included deluxe case add to the package. It suits you if you want a classic-looking Gretsch with a tremolo arm and a case in the box.
Pros
- Laminated maple body and top give a hollowbody build
- Two Hi-Fidelity Filter'Tron humbuckers with separate volume controls
- Bigsby tremolo lets you bend pitch for vibrato and effects
Cons
- Hollowbody shape and 24.6 inch scale may suit some styles more than heavy distortion
68AudioFu
Index↓ 2.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,316 · Aug 17$1,284 now$1,284€1,150 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets22 frets
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
If you want a semi-hollow electric with a wide, chunky neck and two humbuckers, this one is worth a look. It comes with a gig bag and has a flamed maple top, a mahogany neck and an ebony fingerboard with bird inlays. It suits you if you like a classic, good-looking guitar and do not need a lot of tone controls.
Pros
- Flamed maple laminated top gives the guitar a figured look
- Two PRS 58/15 LT S humbucker pickups give you two pickups to work with
- Wide fat neck profile with a mahogany neck suits players who like a chunky feel
Cons
- Only one volume and one tone control with a 3-way switch, so tone options are limited
- Adjustable PRS Stoptail bridge is not a tremolo system, so it will not do whammy effects
68AudioFu
Index↓ 3.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,450 · Aug 17$1,395 now$1,395€1,249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width44.5 mm (1.75")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius304.8 mm (12")
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
You get a semi-hollow guitar with a chambered mahogany body, two humbuckers, and a 3-way switch to choose your pickup combinations. The EVH Modified C neck, ebony fingerboard, and 22 jumbo frets give you a comfortable playing feel. It suits players who want a semi-hollow guitar with a case included.
Pros
- Chambered mahogany body with a lime centre block keeps the build lighter than a solid body
- Two EVH SA-126 humbuckers with a 3-way pickup switch give you several pickup combinations
- EVH Modified C mahogany neck with an ebony fingerboard and 22 jumbo frets
Cons
- Only one volume and two tone controls, so there is little room for extra tone tweaks
68AudioFu
Index↓ 5.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,640 · Aug 17$1,551 now$1,551€1,389 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gretsch G5422TG Electromatic Classic
G5422TG Electromatic WS · Gretsch
69 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Frets22 frets
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This Electromatic G5422TG is a fantastic entry point into the Gretsch world. It nails that vintage vibe with its hollowbody construction and Filter'Tron pickups – perfect for players seeking a distinctive, twangy tone. It's a real gem for rockabilly, blues, and classic rock enthusiasts looking for character and style without premium pricing.
Pros
- Laminated maple body with trestle block minimizes feedback, surprisingly resonant.
- Filter'Tron pickups deliver that classic Gretsch bite and warmth.
- Classic 'C' neck profile is comfortable and conducive to effortless playing.
Cons
- 57mm body depth can feel a bit bulky for some players.
- Open-gear tuners aren't quite as precise as sealed tuners, requiring occasional checks.
65AudioFu
Index↓ 1.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,171 · Aug 17$1,160 now$1,160€1,039 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gretsch G2420 Streamliner Hollow Body with Chromatic II Tailpiece
G2420T STRML HLW SC BRNDWN · Gretsch
72 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This Streamliner is a seriously fun guitar, offering a taste of that classic Gretsch vibe at a surprisingly affordable price. The Broad'Tron pickups are the real deal – thick, warm, and great for rockabilly, blues, and classic rock. It's a fantastic entry point into the Gretsch world, especially for players wanting that distinctive tone without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Broad'Tron pickups deliver a thick, creamy, vintage-inspired tone.
- Nato neck provides comfortable playability and stable feel.
- Adjusto-Matic bridge offers decent stability for a semi-hollowbody.
Cons
- Maple body can feel a bit bright; benefits from warmer amplification.
- Streamliner series uses cost-saving measures; finish isn't top-tier.
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$659 now$659€590 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 169 semiacoustic guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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Ibanez AM93ME Artcore ExpressionistAM93QA-JBB · Ibanez · 3 finishes60↓ 6.2%$780€699$780€699Check ↗
- 12
Ibanez AS93SP Artcore ExpressionistAS93FM-TMG · Ibanez · 5 finishes60Stable$865€775$865€775Check ↗
- 13
Epiphone Riviera FrequensatorRiviera SB · Epiphone · 2 finishes60Stable$870€779$870€779Check ↗
- 14
Ibanez AS73 Artcore Electric GuitarAS73 G BKF · Ibanez · 5 finishes71↓ 1.4%$572€512$572€512Check ↗
- 15
PRS SE Hollowbody Standard PiezoSE Hollowbody Std. Piezo DHSB · PRS59↓ 1.5%$1,227€1,099$1,227€1,099Check ↗
- 16
Ibanez AG95QA Artcore ExpressionistAG95K-NT · Ibanez · 2 finishes58Stable$852€763$852€763Check ↗
- 17
Ibanez JSM10 John Scofield SignatureJSM10EM-TTB John Scofield · Ibanez · 2 finishes58↓ 2.8%$868€777$868€777Check ↗
- 18
Epiphone BroadwayBroadway WR · Epiphone58Stable$1,060€949$1,060€949Check ↗
- 19
Ibanez ASH300 ArtstarASH300-TBC · Ibanez56↓ 14.9%$1,424€1,275$1,424€1,275Check ↗
- 20
Guild Newark St. Collection Starfire I Jet 90Starfire I Jet 90 Satin Black · Guild55↓ 1.0%$773€692$773€692Check ↗
- 21
Ibanez AMH90 Artcore ExpressionistAMH90-BK · Ibanez55Stable$803€719$803€719Check ↗
- 22
Ibanez AS113 Artstar StandardAS113-BS · Ibanez55↓ 5.4%$991€888$991€888Check ↗
- 23
Epiphone Sheraton NaturalEpiphone · 4 finishes55↓ 22.9%$669€599$669€599Check ↗
- 24
Hagstrom '67 Viking II´67 Viking II WCT · Hagstrom52Stable$1,115€999$1,115€999Check ↗
- 25
Ibanez AR520HME Artist StandardAR520HME-NT · Ibanez51↓ 3.6%$836€749$836€749Check ↗
- 26
Guild Starfire Deluxe DC GVTStarfire Deluxe DC TTD · Guild · 10 finishes51Stable$892€799$892€799Check ↗
- 27
Ibanez AM153QA Artstar StandardAM153QA-DBS · Ibanez · 2 finishes51Stable$1,339€1,199$1,339€1,199Check ↗
- 28
Epiphone ES-335 Ch LHEpiphone · 11 finishes50Stable$758€679$758€679Check ↗
- 29
PRS SE Custom 24 S/H VS 2025PRS50↓ 25.0%$1,004€899$1,004€899Check ↗
- 30
PRS SE Custom 24 S/H CA 2025PRS50↓ 25.0%$1,004€899$1,004€899Check ↗
- 31
Guild Starfire Custom DC GVTStarfire Custom DC GVT VW · Guild · 5 finishes49Stable$1,283€1,149$1,283€1,149Check ↗
- 32
Ibanez JSM20 John Scofield SignatureJSM20-BKL · Ibanez49Stable$1,294€1,159$1,294€1,159Check ↗
- 33
Epiphone Noel Gallagher Signature RivieraNoel Gallagher Riviera · Epiphone48Stable$914€819$914€819Check ↗
- 34
Gretsch G5655T-QM Electromatic Jr. SPSGretsch · 4 finishes48Stable$1,004€899$1,004€899Check ↗
- 35
PRS SE Ed Sheeran Pink OmbrePRS48↓ 17.9%$1,558€1,395$1,558€1,395Check ↗
- 36
PRS SE Ed Sheeran Cosmic SplashPRS48↓ 12.6%$1,561€1,398$1,561€1,398Check ↗
- 37
Ibanez AS7328 ArtcoreAS7328-TBC · Ibanez52↓ 2.6%$641€574$641€574Check ↗
- 38
Gretsch G5622 EMTC CB OLV METGretsch · 2 finishes47Stable$859€769$859€769Check ↗
- 39
Gretsch G2655T STRML CB JR DC CDGGretsch · 5 finishes51Stable$646€579$646€579Check ↗
- 40
Larry Carlton Q7 Hollow Transparent BlueLarry Carlton · 3 finishes45↓ 1.4%$769€689$769€689Check ↗
- 41
Ibanez AS7312 ArtcoreAS7312-TCD · Ibanez53Stable$603€540$603€540Check ↗
- 42
Larry Carlton H7 BKLarry Carlton · 5 finishes45↓ 5.2%$687€615$687€615Check ↗
- 43
Epiphone ES-339 VSBEpiphone · 3 finishes44Stable$702€629$702€629Check ↗
- 44
Hagstrom '67 Viking IIViking Black · Hagstrom44Stable$836€749$836€749Check ↗
- 45
Epiphone Casino VSBEpiphone · 3 finishes44Stable$926€829$926€829Check ↗
- 46
Ibanez AF115-AWBIbanez44↓ 4.2%$1,026€919$1,026€919Check ↗
- 47
Gretsch Synchromatic Nashville 50s OSGretsch44Stable$1,216€1,089$1,216€1,089Check ↗
- 48
Ibanez AG75G ArtcoreAG75G-BS · Ibanez51Stable$613€549$613€549Check ↗
- 49
Guild Starfire I DC California BurstGuild · 3 finishes43Stable$776€695$776€695Check ↗
- 50
Ibanez AM73G ArtcoreAM73G-BK · Ibanez55↓ 5.7%$557€499$557€499Check ↗
Semiacoustic Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 356 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,160 — half of all semiacoustic guitars here cost less.
median of 280 models · 42 mm (1.65")–43 mm (1.69")
median of 332 models · 625 mm (24.61")–648 mm (25.51")
most common · 146 models
median of 149 models · 254 mm (10")–305 mm (12.01")
How to choose the best semiacoustic guitars
Playability (Neck Profile & Action)
As an intermediate player, you're developing technique. A chunky neck profile will fight you, and high action will kill your progress. We prioritized guitars with comfortable, modern 'C' or 'D' shaped necks and a manageable action - something you can adjust easily. It's about fluidity, not a wrestling match.
Pickup Voicing & Responsiveness
Many cheaper semi-acoustics have pickups that sound muddy or brittle. We looked for pickups that offered a usable range of tones - a warm, woody low-end for jazz, a bit of 'that fat midrange honk' for blues, and enough clarity to cut through a band. Dynamics are key here - can you coax a clean tone at low volume and a usable breakup at higher volumes?
Body Resonance & Construction
A semi-acoustic's acoustic tone is part of its charm. Thicker tops (like a solid spruce top) generally resonate better than laminate, but construction quality overall matters - tight bracing can choke the sound. You're looking for a balance of acoustic projection and a responsive feel when you pluck the strings.
Hardware Quality (Tuners & Bridge)
Cheap tuners will make you sound sloppy on stage - constantly retuning is a killer. A poorly made bridge can affect sustain and intonation. It's a small detail, but good hardware makes a huge difference in reliability and overall feel.
Versatility & Tone Shaping
You're not locked into one genre. We favored guitars that offered some tonal flexibility - good pickups, decent pots, and a build that allows for future upgrades. Can it handle a clean jazz tone, a bluesy overdrive, or even a slightly distorted rock riff without sounding like garbage?
Buying guide
So you're leveling up your playing and thinking about a semi-acoustic? Smart move. They're fantastic for everything from laid-back jazz to punchy blues and even a surprisingly good platform for rock - assuming you dial in the right amp. But finding the right one as an intermediate player isn't just about looks; it's about finding a guitar that inspires you to practice and actually sounds decent when you plug in. Let's break down what you need.
Don't be fooled by the aesthetics - a pretty guitar that sounds and plays like a brick is useless. At this level, you're looking for a good balance of features and playability. Solid tops are worth the extra money if you can swing it.
Be wary of guitars with overly bright, ice-picky top ends; that's usually a sign of cheap pickups and poor EQ. And remember, a good amp is just as important as the guitar itself.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 356 semiacoustic guitars from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between a hollow body and a semi-acoustic?
A hollow body is fully hollow, offering maximum acoustic resonance but prone to feedback at higher volumes. A semi-acoustic has a solid center block, reducing feedback and providing more sustain while retaining a good amount of acoustic tone.
Are semi-acoustics good for rock music?
Absolutely, but it depends. You'll need an amp with good headroom and a decent EQ. They can deliver a warm, vintage rock tone, but don't expect the aggressive bite of a solid-body.
What's the best wood for a semi-acoustic guitar?
Spruce for the top is common and desirable for its resonance. Mahogany or maple are often used for the back and sides, each contributing different tonal characteristics - mahogany being warmer, maple brighter.
Can I upgrade the pickups on a semi-acoustic?
Definitely! It's a common upgrade. Just make sure the new pickups are compatible with the guitar's wiring and routing.
What's a reasonable budget for an intermediate semi-acoustic?
Expect to spend between $500 and $1200. Below that, you're likely to encounter significant compromises in build quality and components. Above that, you're entering the realm of higher-end instruments.
