AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Gibson Semiacoustic Guitars 2026
The top pick is Gibson ES-335 Dot Ocean Blue ($2,936). Gibson 1959 ES-355 Reissue WR LA leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 13 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 12, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Nut width42.8 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMaple body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
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.
Cons
- The weight can be fatiguing for extended playing sessions.
- Rosewood fingerboards can be susceptible to dryness in certain climates.
62AudioFu
Index↓ 18.1%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$3,585 · Aug 14$2,936 now$2,936€2,620 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43.1 mm (1.7")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This ES-330 is a fantastic choice for players craving a vintage vibe and a focused, semi-hollow tone. The P-90s deliver that classic growl, and the shorter scale length makes it surprisingly comfortable. It's perfect for blues, rock, and jazz players who appreciate a raw, honest sound.
Pros
- Maple/poplar construction delivers a focused, articulate semi-hollow resonance.
- Rounded 'Incin' neck profile offers comfortable playability across the fretboard.
- Dogear P-90s provide a raw, gritty tone ideal for blues and rock.
Cons
- The hollow body makes it prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- Limited pickup options restrict versatility for modern genres.
52AudioFu
Index↓ 21.8%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$3,983 · Aug 14$3,115 now$3,115€2,780 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This is a seriously dialed-in ES-335, straight from Gibson's Murphy Lab. The aged aesthetic and Custombuckers nail that vintage vibe perfectly, making it ideal for blues, jazz, and classic rock players who appreciate top-tier craftsmanship and authentic tone. It's a statement piece and a joy to play, though be prepared for a substantial investment.
Pros
- Murphy Lab construction guarantees exceptional build quality and attention to detail.
- Custombucker Alnico III pickups deliver that classic, warm, and articulate ES-335 tone.
- The authentic Medium 'C' neck profile offers comfortable playability for a wide range of players.
Cons
- The Ultra Heavy Aged finish might not appeal to players preferring a pristine look.
- The weight, typical of a 335, can be fatiguing for extended playing sessions.
51AudioFu
Index↓ 15.7%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$9,300 · Aug 14$7,843 now$7,843€6,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
The ES-339 delivers a fantastic blend of vintage vibe and modern playability. It's a smaller-bodied semi-hollow that’s surprisingly resonant and articulate – ideal for blues, jazz, and rock players seeking a more manageable 335 alternative. The 57 Classic pickups nail that warm, slightly gritty tone that's instantly recognizable.
Pros
- Flamed maple top provides stunning aesthetics and enhanced resonance.
- 57 Classic pickups deliver authentic vintage PAF-era tone and clarity.
- Rounded 'Incin' neck profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
Cons
- Semi-hollow construction can introduce feedback at higher volumes.
- The 'Incin' neck profile, while comfortable, isn’t universally preferred.
48AudioFu
Index↓ 7.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$3,282 · Aug 14$3,054 now$3,054€2,725 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
- Weight3.7 kg
This ES-355 reissue is a serious contender for players chasing that classic Gibson tone and feel. The Murphy Lab build quality is evident, and the Watermelon Red finish is stunning. It’s a premium-priced instrument best suited for blues, jazz, and rock players who appreciate a warm, resonant voice and comfortable neck.
Pros
- Maple/poplar body delivers a focused, articulate tone with warmth.
- '59 Medium C neck profile provides exceptional comfort and playability.
- Unpotted Alnico III humbuckers offer a raw, vintage-voiced, dynamic response.
Cons
- The weight (3.70 kg) can be fatiguing for extended playing sessions.
- Watermelon Red finish, while beautiful, may not appeal to all players.
47AudioFu
Index↓ 3.7%since Aug 14$8,842 · Aug 14$8,514 now$8,514€7,598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMaple body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This ES Supreme is a seriously gorgeous instrument, dripping with vintage vibe and modern refinements. The flamed maple top looks incredible, and the Burstbucker pickups give you everything from creamy jazz tones to snarling rock leads. It's ideal for players seeking a high-end, semi-hollowbody with a unique look and feel, especially those leaning towards blues, jazz, and classic rock.
Pros
- AAA flamed maple top delivers stunning visuals and enhanced resonance.
- Burstbucker Pro pickups offer a versatile, articulate, and powerful tone.
- Ebony fingerboard provides exceptional clarity and a fast playing experience.
Cons
- The Seafoam Green finish, while unique, may not appeal to all tastes.
- Hollowbody construction contributes to a potentially heavier playing experience.
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$4,357 now$4,357€3,888 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
This is a seriously impressive reissue – Gibson nailed the '64 vibe. The combination of the body woods and those unpotted Custombuckers gives it a really sweet, articulate tone perfect for jazz, blues, and vintage rock. It's a dream guitar for players chasing that classic ES-335 experience, but be prepared for the weight!
Pros
- Exceptional maple/poplar construction delivers complex, resonant tone.
- Custombucker Alnico III pickups offer unpotted warmth and clarity.
- Vintage '64 neck profile provides comfortable, authentic feel.
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
- The lightweight aluminum tailpiece might be a point of contention for some.
45AudioFu
Index↓ 8.8%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$6,162 · Aug 14$5,619 now$5,619€5,014 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMaple body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This ES Supreme is a gorgeous, well-built instrument—the flamed maple top is a real showstopper. The Burstbucker pickups give you a versatile palette, from clean jazz tones to crunchy rock leads. It's a fantastic choice for the discerning player seeking a refined, semi-hollow experience.
Pros
- AAA flamed maple top delivers stunning visuals and resonance.
- Burstbucker Pro pickups offer vintage warmth with modern high-gain capabilities.
- Ebony fingerboard provides exceptional clarity and note definition.
Cons
- Bourbon Burst finish may not appeal to those preferring more understated aesthetics.
- Hollowbody construction makes it prone to feedback at higher volumes.
44AudioFu
Index↓ 2.5%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$4,481 · Aug 14$4,369 now$4,369€3,899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
This is a serious recreation of a '61 ES-335, built by Gibson's Custom Shop with a beautifully aged finish. The tone is classic, warm, and articulate—perfect for blues, jazz, and vintage rock players seeking that authentic 60s vibe. It's a premium-priced instrument, but the craftsmanship and tone are genuinely exceptional.
Pros
- Murphy Lab build quality ensures meticulous attention to detail.
- The '61 Skinny inCin neck profile is incredibly comfortable and fast.
- Unpotted Custombuckers deliver a warm, responsive, and vintage-voiced tone.
Cons
- The heavy aged finish might not appeal to players preferring a pristine look.
- The weight, typical of a 335, can be a factor for extended playing.
44AudioFu
Index↓ 4.1%since Aug 14$8,179 · Aug 14$7,843 now$7,843€6,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
This ES-345 is a beautifully made instrument, nailing that classic 60s Gibson vibe. It’s a premium-priced guitar that's perfect for blues, jazz, and rock players who appreciate a warm, resonant tone and comfortable neck profile – it's a serious contender for a studio workhorse or stage instrument.
Pros
- 3-ply Maple/Poplar/Maple body offers excellent resonance and sustain.
- Rounded C neck profile is comfortable and familiar for most players.
- Vintage-style humbuckers deliver a warm, thick, and articulate tone.
Cons
- The semi-hollow body contributes to a noticeable weight, potentially tiring for long gigs.
- The tonal range, while great for certain genres, lacks extreme versatility.
43AudioFu
Index↓ 7.7%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$3,697 · Aug 14$3,411 now$3,411€3,044 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 13 semiacoustic guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
Semiacoustic Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 356 models we track, not a sample.
Median $3,809 — half of all semiacoustic guitars here cost less.
median of 296 models · 42 mm (1.65")–43 mm (1.69")
median of 330 models · 625 mm (24.61")–648 mm (25.51")
median of 254 models · 22–22
median of 138 models · 254 mm (10")–305 mm (12.01")
How to choose the best semiacoustic guitars
Heritage & Construction
Gibson's history is baked into these guitars. The multi-piece maple bodies, often with a figured top (like flame or quilt maple), contribute to that complex, resonant tone. The bracing patterns have evolved over the years, impacting sustain and feedback resistance - a crucial factor for gigging.
Tone Characteristics
That's that signature Gibson warmth, but with more projection than a fully hollow body. You're getting a blend of clarity and warmth, a fat midrange honk that cuts through a mix without being harsh. The pickups, often PAF-style or variations thereof, play a massive role - think creamy overdrive and articulate cleans.
Neck Profile & Playability
Gibson necks are... a conversation. They range from the slim '50s profile to the chunkier '60s and beyond. Finding one that fits your hand is paramount, as it dictates your comfort and speed. The action can sometimes be a bit higher out of the box, requiring a setup to really shine.
Sustain & Feedback
The semi-hollow construction gives you a surprising amount of sustain, more than you'd expect from a hollow body. However, feedback can be an issue at higher volumes, especially with high-gain amps. Gibson's bracing and pickup placement attempt to mitigate this, but it's something to be aware of.
Hardware & Electronics
Gibson's hardware is generally reliable, but it's often an area where cost-cutting occurs on lower-end models. Upgrading the tuners or bridge can significantly improve tuning stability and overall feel - a common upgrade for gigging musicians.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking into a Gibson semi-acoustic? Smart move. They're not just hollow bodies; that f-hole gives you a bit of that solid-body sustain while still retaining a warmth and airiness you just don't get from a Les Paul. We're talking about instruments with serious pedigree - from jazz cats to rock and roll legends, the semi-acoustic has been a workhorse. Let's break down what makes a Gibson semi-acoustic truly special and which models deserve your attention.
Don't be swayed by the flame maple top alone. The neck profile is everything. A beautiful top doesn't matter if you can't comfortably play the thing for hours on end.
Also, budget for a proper setup - a good tech can work wonders on a Gibson's action and intonation. And be honest with yourself about your volume needs - if you're playing quiet jazz gigs, feedback won't be an issue, but crank it up for a rock band and you might need to be more strategic with your amp placement.
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 49 semiacoustic guitars from the Thomann catalogue (of 356 in the category). 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 Gibson ES-335 and an ES-339?
The 339 is essentially a smaller version of the 335, with a shorter scale length and a more compact body. It's great if you find the 335 a bit unwieldy or want something a little lighter.
Are Gibson semi-acoustics prone to feedback?
Yes, they can be, especially at high volumes. The bracing and pickup placement help, but you'll need to be mindful of your amp's proximity to the guitar and consider using a noise gate if necessary.
What kind of music are Gibson semi-acoustics good for?
They're incredibly versatile! Jazz, blues, rock, country - you name it. That warm, articulate tone shines in almost any genre.
Should I upgrade the pickups on my Gibson semi-acoustic?
It depends. The stock pickups are often decent, but upgrading can tailor the tone to your specific needs. Seymour Duncan and Bare Knuckle Pickups are popular choices.
Are Gibson semi-acoustics worth the money?
That's a loaded question. They're not cheap, but the build quality, tone, and heritage are undeniable. If you're after a versatile, resonant guitar that will serve you well for years, then absolutely - they're worth the investment.
