AudioFu
Warwick Alien Deluxe Hybrid 4 LH… ↓ 33.4% $671Allen & Heath SQ5 ↓ 28.8% $2,912Warwick Alien Deluxe 5 NT LH ↓ 27.8% $727Allen & Heath SQ5 Case Bundle I ↓ 26.7% $3,170Casio AP-S200 BN ↓ 23.9% $963Allen & Heath SQ5, Case, DX168/X… ↓ 21.7% $5,187Dangerous Music 2 Bus+ ↓ 21.0% $4,033Orange PPC212-COB ↓ 20.6% $586Orange Micro Dark ↓ 20.2% $195Seymour Duncan SHR-1B Hot Rails… ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SHR1N BLK ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1N BLK ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Bridge… ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Creme ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1N Creme ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Parchment ↓ 19.3% $122

AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best Semiacoustic Guitars for Jazz 2026

The top pick is Gretsch G2622 Streamliner Center Block Double-Cut with V-Stoptail ($535). PRS SE Hollowbody II Piezo leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 168 models across 22 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 12, 2026

168models in this chart
22brands
$1,254median price
95price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All Semiacoustic Guitars Showing: For Jazz · clear

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

  1. Gretsch G2622 Streamliner Center Block Double-Cut with V-Stoptail

    G2622 STRML CB DC MD SPH · Gretsch

    91 for sale on Reverb8 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
    • Scale629 mm (24.76")
    • Frets22 frets
    • Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
    • BodyMaple body

    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.

    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.
    84AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand93
    • Lineup61
    • Price89
    • Specs75
    • Maker100
    ↓ 13.1%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $615 · Aug 14$535 now
    $535€477 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  2. PRS SE Custom 24 Semi-Hollow Piezo

    SE Custom 24 Semi-Hollow CA · PRS

    70 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
    • Scale635 mm (25")
    • Frets24 frets
    • Fingerboard radius254 mm (10")
    • BodyMahogany body

    The SE Custom 24 Semi-Hollow CA is a seriously impressive instrument for the money. It nails that PRS vibe with a comfortable neck, gorgeous flame maple top, and versatile pickups—the piezo adds a cool dimension. This is a fantastic choice for players wanting semi-hollow warmth with modern versatility, perfect for everything from blues to rock to lighter jazz.

    Pros

    • Flamed maple top adds stunning aesthetics and subtle resonance.
    • 85/15 'S' pickups offer a versatile, balanced, modern tone.
    • Wide Thin neck profile is comfortable for various playing styles.

    Cons

    • Mahogany body can be a bit weighty for extended playing sessions.
    • Rosewood fingerboard might feel a little dry to some players.
    77AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand87
    • Lineup45
    • Price100
    • Specs75
    • Maker70
    ↓ 17.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $1,618 · Aug 14$1,344 now
    $1,344€1,199 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  3. Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Classic

    G5420T EMTC CLS HLW ANV GRN · Gretsch

    131 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
    • Scale625 mm (24.61")
    • Frets22 frets
    • Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
    • FingerboardLaurel fingerboard

    This Gretsch G5420T is a fantastic entry point into the Gretsch sound – a real vintage vibe without the vintage price tag. It’s ideal for players seeking a semi-hollow with character, from rockabilly to blues and beyond. The build quality is solid for the price point, offering a lot of bang for your buck.

    Pros

    • The Filter'Tron pickups deliver a fantastic, thick, and articulate Gretsch voice.
    • Maple laminate construction provides surprising resonance and sustain for a semi-hollow.
    • Classic C neck profile is comfortable and fast for a wide range of playing styles.

    Cons

    • The lighter gauge strings feel a little floppy for aggressive players.
    • Semi-hollow body makes it susceptible to feedback at higher volumes.
    76AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand100
    • Lineup45
    • Price50
    • Specs63
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$929 now
    $929€829 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  4. Gretsch G2420 Streamliner Hollow Body with Chromatic II Tailpiece

    G2420 Strml VLAM · Gretsch

    68 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
    • Frets22 frets
    • Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
    • FingerboardLaurel fingerboard

    The G2420 Strml VLAM is a fantastic entry point into the Gretsch world, offering that iconic hollowbody vibe at a budget-friendly price. Its Broad'Tron pickups give it a unique, punchy character perfect for rock, blues, and even jazz players looking for something a little different. The neck profile is surprisingly comfortable, making it a joy to play for hours.

    Pros

    • Broad'Tron pickups deliver a thick, creamy, and articulate vintage tone
    • Soft 'inCin' neck profile offers exceptional comfort and playability
    • Laurel fingerboard provides a smooth, responsive feel and warm tone

    Cons

    • Maple body can feel a bit bright; consider warmer strings or pedals
    • Village Amber finish, while attractive, shows fingerprints easily
    73AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand87
    • Lineup50
    • Price74
    • Specs50
    • Maker100
    ↓ 7.9%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $570 · Aug 14$526 now
    $526€469 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  5. Ibanez AS73 Artcore Electric Guitar

    AS73-TTF · Ibanez

    84 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width43 mm (1.69")
    • Scale628 mm (24.72")
    • Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
    • FingerboardRosewood fingerboard

    The AS73-TTF is a solid entry into the semi-hollow market. It’s surprisingly resonant for a basswood build and the Classic Elite pickups deliver a good dose of vintage-inspired grit. This is an excellent choice for players wanting a classic look and feel without the premium price tag, especially those into blues, rock, or lighter jazz styles.

    Pros

    • Basswood construction delivers surprisingly warm, balanced tones.
    • Nyatoh neck offers a comfortable, familiar feel for experienced players.
    • Classic Elite humbuckers provide a versatile range of rock and blues tones.

    Cons

    • Basswood body can feel a bit 'soft' and prone to dents with rough handling.
    • Rosewood fingerboard might feel a little dry to some, requiring occasional conditioning.
    72AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand91
    • Lineup50
    • Price62
    • Specs50
    • Maker89
    ↓ 3.9%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $570 · Aug 14$548 now
    $548€489 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  6. Fender Tom DeLonge Starcaster

    Tom Delonge Starcaster SFG RF · Fender

    111 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 Starcaster is a seriously cool guitar, clearly designed for players who love that Blink-182 vibe but want something a bit more refined. The roasted maple neck and that Custom SH5 pickup give it a modern edge while retaining a semi-hollow warmth – perfect for alternative rock, pop-punk, and even heavier styles.

    Pros

    • Laminated maple body delivers a surprisingly resonant, airy tone.
    • Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
    • Seymour Duncan SH5 pickup provides a thick, high-output rock sound.

    Cons

    • The bolt-on neck construction lacks the inherent warmth of a set neck.
    • Surf Green finish, while iconic, might not appeal to all players' tastes.
    71AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand97
    • Lineup45
    • Price53
    • Specs75
    • Maker40
    ↓ 1.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $1,131 · Aug 14$1,119 now
    $1,119€999 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  7. Gretsch Synchromatic Falcon Hollow-Body Single Cutaway

    Synchromatic Falcon BB White · Gretsch

    70 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
    • Scale648 mm (25.51")
    • Frets22 frets
    • Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
    • FingerboardEbony fingerboard

    This guitar sounds bright thanks to its maple body and Filter'Tron pickups. The gold hardware looks nice, but the hollow body might rattle in loud spots. It fits players who love classic Gretsch tone without extra bells and whistles.

    Pros

    • Maple laminated body ensures bright, crisp tone projection.
    • Filter'Tron humbuckers deliver classic clean and crunch.
    • Gold hardware adds visual appeal and durability.

    Cons

    • Hollow body construction may produce unwanted resonance.
    • No detailed weight data listed in the specs.
    70AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand87
    • Lineup31
    • Price65
    • Specs63
    • Maker100
    ↓ 5.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $1,568 · Aug 17$1,489 now
    $1,489€1,329 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  8. Gretsch Synchromatic Nashville Hollow-Body Single Cutaway

    Synchromatic Nashville CG · Gretsch

    68 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

    This guitar feels like a cross between a hollow-body jazz instrument and a solid electric. The maple body rings out beautifully, while the Filter'Tron pickups give it a clean yet punchy tone for rock and blues. It's great for players who want that vintage Bigsby vibe without needing a full hollow-body setup. Perfect for someone who loves resonance but still needs reliable overdrive.

    Pros

    • Hollow maple body delivers rich, resonant acoustic tone
    • Two Hi-Fi Filter'Tron humbuckers provide balanced rock output
    • Biggsby tremolo adds classic vintage vibrato feel

    Cons

    • Hollow body construction lacks solid guitar sustain
    • No specific weight rating provided in description
    68AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand87
    • Lineup19
    • Price57
    • Specs75
    • Maker100
    ↓ 2.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $1,321 · Aug 17$1,289 now
    $1,289€1,150 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  9. Evh SA-126 Standard

    SA-126 Special PLT PRL MET · Evh

    87 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width44.5 mm (1.75")
    • Scale629 mm (24.76")
    • Frets22 frets
    • Fingerboard radius304.8 mm (12")
    • FingerboardEbony fingerboard

    This guitar feels like a solid instrument with a hollow body, perfect for players who want warmth without too much feedback. The ebony neck and jumbo frets make it easy to play fast licks, while the special finish looks striking on stage. It suits anyone needing a semi-hollow option that sounds clean but cuts through a mix.

    Pros

    • Mahogany body with lime center block for balanced tone
    • Graph Tech TUSQ nut reduces string noise and slap
    • EVH Harmonica bridge adds unique articulation and sustain

    Cons

    • Semi-hollow design sacrifices some output compared to solid bodies
    • No specific weight listed makes balance uncertain for players
    67AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand92
    • Lineup39
    • Price66
    • Specs63
    • Maker34
    ↓ 5.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $1,646 · Aug 17$1,557 now
    $1,557€1,389 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  10. PRS SE Hollowbody II Piezo

    SE Hollowbody II Piezo VSB · PRS

    89 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann

    • Scale635 mm (25")
    • Frets22 frets
    • FingerboardEbony fingerboard

    This guitar feels like a classic hollowbody with a modern electric edge. The flamed maple top sings, while the two humbuckers give you that full electric rock sound. The piezo pickup adds a nice midrange bump without being too thin. It suits players who want a vintage shape but need solid output for live gigs. Just be ready to manage two cables at once.

    Pros

    • Laminated flamed maple top adds classic hollow resonance
    • Two magnetic humbuckers deliver thick electric tone
    • Piezo stoptail blends acoustic sound with mids

    Cons

    • Double input sockets increase cable bulk
    • No listed weight may surprise heavier players
    65AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand92
    • Lineup39
    • Price50
    • Specs38
    • Maker70
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$1,680 now
    $1,680€1,499 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

All 168 semiacoustic guitars

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

  1. 11
    PRS SE Hollowbody II PiezoSE Hollowbody II LTD MT · PRS · 2 finishes
    Index 63Stable
    63
    Stable$1,456€1,299
    $1,456€1,299Check ↗
  2. 12
    Ibanez PM3C Pat Metheny SignaturePM3C-BKL Pat Metheny · Ibanez · 2 finishes
    Index 63Stable
    63
    Stable$1,670€1,490
    $1,670€1,490Check ↗
  3. 13
    Harley Benton HB-35 VB Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 35 finishes
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$223€199
    $223€199Check ↗
  4. 14
    Ibanez AM93ME Artcore ExpressionistAM93QA-JBB · Ibanez · 3 finishes
    Index 62↓ 6.2%
    62
    ↓ 6.2%$783€699
    $783€699Check ↗
  5. 15
    Gretsch G5422TG Electromatic ClassicG5422TG Electromatic SW · Gretsch · 2 finishes
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$1,112€992
    $1,112€992Check ↗
  6. 16
    Gibson ES-335 Dot Ocean BlueGibson · 18 finishes
    Index 62↓ 18.1%
    62
    ↓ 18.1%$2,936€2,620
    $2,936€2,620Check ↗
  7. 17
    Ibanez AS53 ArtcoreAS53-TKF Artcore · Ibanez · 2 finishes
    Index 61Stable
    61
    Stable$402€359
    $402€359Check ↗
  8. 18
    Ibanez AS93SP Artcore ExpressionistAS93FM-TMG · Ibanez · 5 finishes
    Index 60Stable
    60
    Stable$868€775
    $868€775Check ↗
  9. 19
    Gretsch G2655 STRML CB JR DC VLAMBGretsch · 7 finishes
    Index 58↓ 13.1%
    58
    ↓ 13.1%$535€477
    $535€477Check ↗
  10. 20
    Ibanez JSM10 John Scofield SignatureJSM10EM-TTB John Scofield · Ibanez · 2 finishes
    Index 58↓ 2.8%
    58
    ↓ 2.8%$871€777
    $871€777Check ↗
  11. 21
    PRS SE Hollowbody Standard PiezoSE Hollowbody Std. Piezo DHSB · PRS
    Index 58↓ 1.5%
    58
    ↓ 1.5%$1,232€1,099
    $1,232€1,099Check ↗
  12. 22
    Ibanez AG95QA Artcore ExpressionistAG95K-NT · Ibanez · 2 finishes
    Index 57Stable
    57
    Stable$855€763
    $855€763Check ↗
  13. 23
    Ibanez GB10 George Benson SignatureGB10-BK · Ibanez
    Index 57Stable
    57
    Stable$3,697€3,299
    $3,697€3,299Check ↗
  14. 24
    Taylor T5Z ClassicT5z Custom Koa · Taylor · 3 finishes
    Index 56↓ 5.0%
    56
    ↓ 5.0%$4,256€3,798
    $4,256€3,798Check ↗
  15. 25
    Ibanez AS113 Artstar StandardAS113-BS · Ibanez
    Index 55↓ 4.4%
    55
    ↓ 4.4%$1,006€898
    $1,006€898Check ↗
  16. 26
    Guild Newark St. Collection Starfire I Jet 90Starfire I Jet 90 Satin Black · Guild
    Index 54↓ 1.0%
    54
    ↓ 1.0%$775€692
    $775€692Check ↗
  17. 27
    Ibanez AMH90 Artcore ExpressionistAMH90-BK · Ibanez
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$806€719
    $806€719Check ↗
  18. 28
    Ibanez AM73G ArtcoreAM73G-BK · Ibanez
    Index 53↓ 5.7%
    53
    ↓ 5.7%$559€499
    $559€499Check ↗
  19. 29
    Ibanez AS7312 ArtcoreAS7312-TCD · Ibanez
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$605€540
    $605€540Check ↗
  20. 30
    Ibanez AG75G ArtcoreAG75G-BS · Ibanez
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$615€549
    $615€549Check ↗
  21. 31
    Ibanez AR520HME Artist StandardAR520HME-NT · Ibanez
    Index 52↓ 3.6%
    52
    ↓ 3.6%$839€749
    $839€749Check ↗
  22. 32
    Gretsch G5622T EMTC CB W/BIGS CDGGretsch · 3 finishes
    Index 52↓ 7.2%
    52
    ↓ 7.2%$862€769
    $862€769Check ↗
  23. 33
    Hagstrom '67 Viking II´67 Viking II WCT · Hagstrom
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$1,119€999
    $1,119€999Check ↗
  24. 34
    Ibanez ASH300 ArtstarASH300-TBC · Ibanez
    Index 52↓ 8.7%
    52
    ↓ 8.7%$1,534€1,369
    $1,534€1,369Check ↗
  25. 35
    Gibson ES-330 Tobacco SunburstGibson · 3 finishes
    Index 52↓ 21.8%
    52
    ↓ 21.8%$3,115€2,780
    $3,115€2,780Check ↗
  26. 36
    Duesenberg Starplayer TV PhonicStarplayer TV Phonic VW · Duesenberg
    Index 51↓ 3.3%
    51
    ↓ 3.3%$3,249€2,899
    $3,249€2,899Check ↗
  27. 37
    Gibson 1959 ES-335 Reissue VN UHA #1Gibson · 4 finishes
    Index 51↓ 15.7%
    51
    ↓ 15.7%$7,843€6,999
    $7,843€6,999Check ↗
  28. 38
    Harley Benton CST-24HB TOL Tob. Flame w/BagHarley Benton · 6 finishes
    Index 50↓ 6.1%
    50
    ↓ 6.1%$346€309
    $346€309Check ↗
  29. 39
    Ibanez AS7328 ArtcoreAS7328-TBC · Ibanez
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$660€589
    $660€589Check ↗
  30. 40
    Gretsch Pro Broadkaster LX CDGGretsch · 2 finishes
    Index 49↓ 4.2%
    49
    ↓ 4.2%$3,360€2,998
    $3,360€2,998Check ↗
  31. 41
    Gretsch G5655T-QM Electromatic Jr. SPSGretsch · 4 finishes
    Index 48↓ 1.1%
    48
    ↓ 1.1%$1,007€899
    $1,007€899Check ↗
  32. 42
    Gibson ES-339 Figured 60s CherryGibson · 3 finishes
    Index 48↓ 7.0%
    48
    ↓ 7.0%$3,054€2,725
    $3,054€2,725Check ↗
  33. 43
    Gretsch G7593T Billy Duffy Signature FalconG7593T Billy Duffy Falcon · Gretsch
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$4,649€4,149
    $4,649€4,149Check ↗
  34. 44
    Epiphone Noel Gallagher Signature RivieraNoel Gallagher Riviera · Epiphone
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$918€819
    $918€819Check ↗
  35. 45
    Ibanez AM153QA Artstar StandardAM153QA-DBS · Ibanez · 2 finishes
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$1,344€1,199
    $1,344€1,199Check ↗
  36. 46
    Gretsch Pro Nashville Bigsby CAD GRNGretsch · 2 finishes
    Index 47↑ 0.7%
    47
    ↑ 0.7%$3,193€2,849
    $3,193€2,849Check ↗
  37. 47
    Gretsch G6636-RF Richard Fortus Signature Falcon Center BlockG6636-RF Richard Fortus Black · Gretsch
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$3,585€3,199
    $3,585€3,199Check ↗
  38. 48
    Gibson 1959 ES-355 Reissue WR LAGibson · 4 finishes
    Index 47↓ 3.7%
    47
    ↓ 3.7%$8,514€7,598
    $8,514€7,598Check ↗
  39. 49
    Harley Benton RB-600BK Classic SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$279€249
    $279€249Check ↗
  40. 50
    Epiphone ES-335 Figured Blueberry BurstEpiphone · 6 finishes
    Index 46↓ 5.0%
    46
    ↓ 5.0%$638€569
    $638€569Check ↗

Semiacoustic Guitars by the numbers

Measured across all 356 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $1,254 — half of all semiacoustic guitars here cost less.

21
31
97
91
95
21
<$300$300–500$500–1k$1k–2k$2k–5k$5k+
Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")

median of 296 models · 42 mm (1.65")–43 mm (1.69")

Scale628 mm (24.72")

median of 330 models · 625 mm (24.61")–648 mm (25.51")

Frets22

median of 254 models · 22–22

Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")

median of 138 models · 254 mm (10")–305 mm (12.01")

How to choose the best semiacoustic guitars

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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 semi-acoustic and a hollow body?

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.

Are P90 pickups suitable for jazz?

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.

What about piezo pickups in semi-acoustics?

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.

Is a larger body size always better 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.

Should I consider a vintage-inspired model?

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.

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#1 · AudioFu Index 84Gretsch G2622 Streamliner Center Block Double-Cut with V-Stoptail · $535€477
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