Best Semiacoustic Guitars for Jazz 2026
Alright, so you're looking for a semi-acoustic for jazz? Forget the shredder guitars; we're talking about something with nuance, warmth, and a touch of vintage vibe. It's not just about the hollow body - it's about how that resonance interacts with the pickups and how it sits in a trio, quartet, or big band. Finding the right one means nailing that woody low-end thump without getting muddy, and having enough clarity to articulate those complex chord voicings.
Last updated: June 17, 2026 • Next update: June 24, 2026
⚡ The best semiacoustic guitars in 2026 are DAngelico Excel Mini DC Trans Cherry 25 (top pick), DAngelico Premier EXL1 Honey Blonde for tighter budgets, and DAngelico Premier EXL1 Brown Burst for pros — selected from 15 options across 3 brands, priced $603–$4,068, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
DAngelico Excel Mini DC Trans Cherry 25
by
DAngelico
Clean Tones
Country
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
The D’Angelico Excel Mini DC is a seriously cool little semi-hollow. It's surprisingly versatile thanks to those Seymour Duncan pickups and coil-splitting, and the ebony fingerboard makes it a joy to play. This is perfect for players wanting a smaller-bodied, premium-feeling instrument – great for gigging or studio work.
PROS
- • Seymour Duncan pickups deliver a powerful, versatile, and articulate tone.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a slick, fast playing experience and excellent note definition.
- • Maple/walnut/maple neck construction offers stability and a comfortable 'C' profile.
- • 5-ply binding and gold hardware elevate the aesthetic, showcasing quality craftsmanship.
CONS
- • The shorter 628mm scale may feel cramped for players accustomed to longer scales.
- • Trans Cherry finish, while beautiful, can be prone to fingerprints and smudging.
- • Semi-hollow body makes it more susceptible to feedback at high volumes.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 621859
$1,759
#2
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
DAngelico Premier EXL1 Honey Blonde
by
DAngelico
Clean Tones
Vintage Style
Country
Key Feature:
The EXL1 Honey Blonde is a gorgeous, well-built semi-acoustic that nails that vintage vibe. It's a fantastic choice for blues, jazz, and lighter rock players seeking a warm, articulate tone with a touch of elegance. The build quality is solid for the price point, making it an appealing option for intermediate to advanced players.
PROS
- • Honey Blonde finish is stunning; beautifully figured flamed maple back adds visual flair.
- • Mini humbucker delivers a surprisingly thick, warm tone with reduced noise.
- • Ovangkol fingerboard provides a snappy feel and excellent note definition.
- • Grover Rotomatic tuners offer smooth, precise tuning stability – a nice touch.
CONS
- • Hollow body construction makes it prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • The 'C' neck profile might not suit players preferring a thinner or flatter feel.
- • Limited pickup options restrict tonal versatility compared to solid-body guitars.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 607535
$1,209
#3
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
DAngelico Premier EXL1 Brown Burst
by
DAngelico
Blues
Rockabilly
Country
Key Feature:
The EXL1 Brown Burst is a seriously cool semihollow – great for players wanting that airy resonance and vintage vibe without the full hollow body commitment. It's surprisingly versatile, handling blues, jazz, and even lighter rock really well. A great option for gigging musicians or those wanting a classy, comfortable instrument.
PROS
- • Flamed maple back/sides add warmth and visual appeal.
- • Mini-humbuckers offer clarity with surprising output.
- • Ovangkol fingerboard provides a smooth, responsive playing feel.
- • Grover Rotomatic tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability.
CONS
- • Hollow body construction makes it prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • Shorter scale length limits low-end extension compared to full-size guitars.
- • Brown Burst finish might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 607536
$1,099
#4
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Gretsch G2655T STRML CB JR DC CDG
by
Gretsch
Country
Rockabilly
Blues
Key Feature:
This G2655T is a fantastic entry point into the Gretsch world, offering that iconic hollow-body vibe without the premium price tag. The Broad'Tron pickups give it a real edge – it’s surprisingly versatile, handling rock, blues, and even jazz with aplomb. It’s a solid choice for players wanting that Gretsch mojo on a budget.
PROS
- • Broad'Tron pickups deliver a unique, powerful, and articulate tone.
- • Maple top adds brightness and clarity to the semi-hollow resonance.
- • Soft 'C' neck profile offers comfortable playability for varied hand sizes.
- • Bigsby B50 tremolo provides classic Gretsch vibrato and expression.
CONS
- • Cadillac Green finish might be polarizing for some players’ tastes.
- • Semi-hollow construction makes it prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • Nato neck, while stable, isn't as premium as mahogany.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 620009
$648
#5
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Gretsch G2622 STRML CB DC MD SPH
by
Gretsch
Rockabilly
Jazz
Blues
Key Feature:
This G2622 is a fantastic entry point into the Gretsch world. The Broad'Tron pickups really shine for rockabilly, blues, and indie styles—they've got a real bite. It's a well-built, stylish guitar perfect for players wanting that classic Gretsch vibe without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Broad'Tron pickups deliver a thick, articulate, and surprisingly versatile tone.
- • The soft 'C' neck profile offers excellent playability and comfortable feel for extended playing.
- • The 3-ply tortoise pickguard with gold logo adds a touch of vintage Gretsch elegance.
- • The coil-split functionality greatly expands tonal options, from fat humbucker to bright single-coil.
CONS
- • Maple body can contribute to a slightly less resonant semi-hollow feel compared to chambered alternatives.
- • The shorter 24.75” scale length might feel cramped for players accustomed to longer scales.
- • Nickel hardware, while aesthetically pleasing, can be prone to tarnishing over time.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 620004
$604
#6
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Gretsch Pro Broadkaster LX BLK
by
Gretsch
Vintage Style
Clean Tones
Country
Key Feature:
This Broadkaster LX is a serious instrument, delivering that classic Gretsch vibe with modern refinements. The ebony 'board and powerful humbuckers make it surprisingly versatile, capable of handling blues, rock, and even some heavier styles. It's a fantastic choice for players seeking a premium semi-hollow experience and a touch of vintage elegance.
PROS
- • Ebony fingerboard provides exceptional clarity and sustain for articulate playing.
- • Pro Twin Six humbuckers deliver a thick, powerful tone suitable for rock and blues.
- • Gotoh locking tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability, even with aggressive tremolo use.
- • Maple body construction contributes to a focused, resonant tone with excellent projection.
CONS
- • The 'U' neck profile might not suit players preferring a thinner, more modern feel.
- • Semi-hollow construction makes it more prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • Premium-priced, placing it out of reach for many aspiring guitarists.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 609315
$3,442
#7
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Gibson ES-335 Dot Watermelon
by
Gibson
Rockabilly
Vintage Style
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Watermelon ES-335 is a real head-turner with a fantastic, classic tone. The maple cap provides a lovely snap, while the mahogany body keeps things warm and woody. It's perfect for players wanting that vintage Gibson vibe – blues, rock, jazz – without the extreme cost of some higher-end models.
PROS
- • Maple/Mahogany construction delivers balanced warmth and clarity.
- • Rounded 'C' neck profile offers comfortable, familiar playability.
- • Calibrated T-Type humbuckers provide a focused, vintage-inspired tone.
- • Watermelon finish is a unique, eye-catching aesthetic statement.
CONS
- • The weight can be considerable, especially for extended playing sessions.
- • Rosewood fretboards may require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.
- • Limited pickup versatility compared to coil-splitting options.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 609211
$3,299
#8
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Gibson ES-335 Figured Honey Amber
by
Gibson
Country
Blues
Jazz
Key Feature:
This ES-335 is a gorgeous instrument with a fantastic feel and a really sweet, balanced tone – not overly bright, but with plenty of warmth and growl. The figured maple top looks incredible, and the vintage-inspired hardware adds to the classic vibe. It's a premium-priced guitar ideal for players seeking a versatile semi-hollow with that iconic Gibson sound, especially those into blues, rock, and jazz.
PROS
- • AAA flamed maple top delivers stunning visuals and resonance.
- • Quartersawn neck enhances stability and provides a comfortable feel.
- • Calibrated T-Style humbuckers offer a versatile, punchy vintage tone.
- • CTS pots and Orange Drop caps ensure reliable, classic electronics.
CONS
- • The weight can be a factor for extended playing sessions.
- • The figured maple top may exhibit some visual inconsistencies.
- • Rosewood fingerboards are increasingly rare and may be a concern for some.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 609214
$3,519
#9
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Gretsch G2622 STRML CB DC CPR
by
Gretsch
Clean Tones
Country
Rockabilly
Key Feature:
This Gretsch is a seriously cool semi-hollow that nails that vintage vibe. The Broad'Trons give you a snarling, warm sound perfect for rockabilly, blues, and classic rock. It's a fantastic option for players wanting that Gretsch character without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Broad'Tron pickups deliver a thick, articulate vintage tone.
- • Soft 'C' neck profile offers comfortable playability for extended sessions.
- • Laurel fingerboard provides a smooth, responsive feel under the fingers.
- • Versatile coil-split functionality expands tonal possibilities significantly.
CONS
- • Maple body can feel a little 'spanky' without careful EQ adjustments.
- • Shorter 24.75” scale might feel cramped for players used to longer scales.
- • Nickel hardware, while aesthetically pleasing, isn't the most durable.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 620001
$604
#10
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Gretsch Pro Broadkaster JR LX BLKBRY
by
Gretsch
Jazz
Clean Tones
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
This Broadkaster Junior is a serious contender for players wanting that classic Gretsch vibe in a more manageable size. The ebony board and humbuckers bring a real punch and clarity, and it's surprisingly versatile for a semi-hollow. It's perfect for blues, rockabilly, and classic rock enthusiasts who appreciate a vintage feel and substantial build quality.
PROS
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and sustain, a real upgrade.
- • Pro Twin Six humbuckers deliver a powerful, articulate vintage tone.
- • Gotoh locking tuners provide rock-solid tuning stability, a crucial detail.
- • Bigsby B7GP tremolo adds expressive vibrato without tuning issues.
CONS
- • Maple body can feel a bit dense; expect a substantial playing weight.
- • The 'U' neck profile might not suit players preferring a thinner, modern feel.
- • Semi-hollow construction limits high-gain, ultra-distorted applications.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 609314
$3,442
#11
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Gibson ES-335 Dot Ocean Blue
by
Gibson
Vintage Style
Blues
Jazz
Key Feature:
This ES-335 Dot in Ocean Blue is a serious contender for players seeking a vintage-inspired semi-hollow. The maple body provides a focused clarity, while the mahogany neck delivers that classic Gibson warmth. It's a premium-priced instrument that's ideal for blues, rock, and jazz players wanting that iconic 335 vibe.
PROS
- • Ocean Blue finish is stunning, truly eye-catching and unique.
- • Mahogany neck provides excellent sustain and comfortable playability.
- • Calibrated T-Type humbuckers offer a balanced, vintage-inspired tone.
- • Rosewood fretboard adds warmth and complexity to the overall sound.
CONS
- • The weight can be fatiguing for extended playing sessions.
- • Rosewood fingerboards can be susceptible to dryness in certain climates.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to guitars with coil-splitting options.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 609192
$3,519
#12
⭐
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
#13
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Gretsch G2655T STRML CB JR DC GNMTL
by
Gretsch
Blues
Clean Tones
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Gretsch is a seriously cool semi-hollow that nails that vintage vibe. The Broad'Tron pickups give you a snarling, powerful sound perfect for rockabilly, blues, and classic rock. It's a fantastic entry point into the Gretsch world, offering a lot of character at a reasonable price.
PROS
- • Broad'Tron pickups deliver a thick, harmonically rich tone.
- • Maple top adds clarity and projection to the semi-hollow body.
- • Soft 'C' neck profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
- • Bigsby B50 tremolo provides classic Gretsch vibrato and expression.
CONS
- • Gunmetal finish may show fingerprints and smudges easily.
- • Maple body contributes to a moderately heavier feel than all-mahogany guitars.
- • Coil-splitting, while useful, might not convincingly replicate single-coil tones.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 620013
$648
#14
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Gibson ES-335 Figured Blood Moon
by
Gibson
Vintage Style
Jazz
Blues
Key Feature:
This Blood Moon ES-335 is a seriously gorgeous instrument. The figured maple top is just stunning, and those T-Style pickups give you a wide range of tones, from warm cleans to crunchy overdrive. It's ideal for players seeking a premium-priced, versatile semi-hollow with vintage vibe and modern refinements.
PROS
- • AAA flamed maple top delivers stunning visuals and resonant sustain.
- • Calibrated T-Style humbuckers provide a balanced, articulate, and powerful tone.
- • Quartersawn mahogany neck offers exceptional stability and a comfortable, rounded 'C' profile.
- • Titanium saddles in the ABR-1 bridge enhance tuning stability and sustain.
CONS
- • The semi-hollow construction makes it more prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • Being a Gibson, the weight can be substantial, potentially fatiguing in long gigs.
- • The Blood Moon Burst finish, while beautiful, might not appeal to all players' tastes.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 609219
$4,069
#15
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Gretsch G2622T STRML CB DC VLAMB
by
Gretsch
Vintage Style
Jazz
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
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.
- • The push/pull coil split adds versatility for brighter, single-coil sounds.
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.
- • Village Amber finish, while beautiful, might be a fingerprint magnet.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 619994
$648
How to Choose the Best Semiacoustic Guitars
1
Tonewoods & Body Size
Mahogany and maple are classics for a reason. Mahogany gives you that warm, rounded low-end; maple brings more clarity and sparkle. Smaller bodies (14"-16" lower bout) tend to be more focused, while larger bodies (17"-18") offer more resonant thump, but can be more prone to feedback at higher volumes. It's a balancing act.
2
Pickup Voicing
Jazz demands a refined pickup sound. We're looking for something that doesn't have an ice-picky high end or overly aggressive output. P90s can be great if tamed, but humbuckers with a vintage voicing (think '59-style) are often a safer bet for that creamy, smooth tone. Brightness is good, harshness is not.
3
Neck Profile & Action
A comfortable neck is crucial for those intricate lines and chord melodies. Slim Taper 'C' profiles are popular, but ultimately it's about what feels best in your hand. Action needs to be low enough for effortless playing, but high enough to avoid fret buzz - a common issue with thinner bodies.
4
Hardware & Construction
Quality tuners are a must - you don't want to be retuning mid-solo. Look for a well-fitted bridge that allows for intonation adjustments. Dovetail neck joints generally offer better sustain than bolt-on, but they also increase the price.
5
Feedback Resistance
Hollow bodies are prone to feedback, especially at higher volumes. Good bracing, a center block (even a partial one), and careful pickup placement can all help tame unwanted resonance. Gigging with a semi-acoustic requires a little more finesse than a solid body.
Buying Guide
Don't be fooled by aesthetics alone. A beautiful guitar doesn't automatically sound great. Pay close attention to the neck profile and action - a poorly set-up guitar will ruin your playing experience. Budget guitars often cut corners on bracing and hardware, which impacts sustain and tuning stability. Spending a little more on a well-made instrument will pay off in the long run, especially if you're serious about jazz.
Our Methodology
We're not relying on spec sheets here. We've spent countless hours playing these guitars through various amps - from clean Fender Deluxe Reverbs to darker, more saturated tube amps - and compared them side-by-side in rehearsal rooms and recording sessions. It's about how they feel under your fingers, how they respond to dynamics, and whether they'll cut through a mix without sounding harsh.
Frequently Asked Questions
A hollow body is completely hollow, offering maximum resonance but also more feedback potential. A semi-acoustic has a solid center block, which reduces feedback but still gives you some of that hollow body character. It's a compromise - and often the better choice for gigging.
They can be, but they need to be tamed. P90s are naturally brighter and more aggressive than typical jazz pickups. You'll need to pair them with a darker amp setting and be mindful of your picking dynamics to avoid harshness.
Piezo pickups can offer a very acoustic-like tone, but they often lack warmth and can sound brittle. They're best used for blending with magnetic pickups, not as the primary sound source for jazz.
Not necessarily. A larger body gives you more bass response, but it also increases the risk of feedback. A smaller body can be more focused and easier to control, especially in smaller ensembles.
Absolutely. Vintage-inspired models often nail the tonal qualities and feel that jazz players crave. However, be aware that vintage reproductions often come with a higher price tag - and sometimes the 'vintage' quirks can be more trouble than they're worth.
