Best Gibson Semiacoustic Guitars 2026
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.
Last updated: May 6, 2026 • Next update: May 13, 2026
#1
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Gibson 1959 ES-335 Reissue VN UHA
by
Gibson
Vintage Style
Jazz
Rockabilly
Key Feature:
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.
- • Ultra Heavy Aged finish replicates the look and feel of a genuinely vintage instrument.
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.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most guitarists.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 523009
$9,129
#2
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Gibson ES Supreme Bourbon Burst
by
Gibson
Rockabilly
Country
Jazz
Key Feature:
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.
- • Contoured neck heel allows comfortable access to upper registers.
CONS
- • Bourbon Burst finish may not appeal to those preferring more understated aesthetics.
- • Hollowbody construction makes it prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 588912
$4,399
#3
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Gibson 1959 ES-335 Reissue EB ULA
by
Gibson
Blues
Rockabilly
Country
Key Feature:
This is a seriously well-made ES-335, clearly a labor of love from Gibson's Murphy Lab. The vintage-correct specs and aged finish give it an undeniable vibe, and the pickups really nail that classic, warm tone. It's a premium-priced instrument ideal for players seeking authentic vintage ES-335 character and top-tier craftsmanship.
PROS
- • Murphy Lab construction guarantees exceptional build quality and detail.
- • The unpotted AlNiCo III pickups deliver warm, responsive vintage tones.
- • Ebony finish and ULA aging offer stunning aesthetics and a unique character.
- • Mahogany neck with '59 Medium C profile provides comfortable, classic feel.
CONS
- • The ES-335 body construction results in a noticeably heavier instrument.
- • The ULA finish, while beautiful, might not appeal to all players.
- • The short scale length can feel cramped for guitarists with larger hands.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 523010
$6,599
#4
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Gibson 1961 ES-335 Reissue 60s CH HA
by
Gibson
Clean Tones
Rockabilly
Blues
Key Feature:
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.
- • Maple/Poplar/Maple body provides excellent resonance and sustain.
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.
- • The limited pickup selection restricts versatility for modern genres.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 504270
$8,029
#5
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Gibson ES-335 Dot Spearmint
by
Gibson
Jazz
Blues
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
This ES-335 Dot in Spearmint is a seriously versatile instrument. It’s got that classic Gibson warmth and sustain, with a touch more clarity thanks to the T-Type pickups. Perfect for players who want a vintage vibe with modern playability – a real sweet spot for blues, rock, and jazz.
PROS
- • Maple/Mahogany construction delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Rounded 'C' neck profile offers comfortable playability for a wide range of players.
- • Calibrated T-Type humbuckers provide articulate cleans and thick, warm overdrive.
- • Vintage-style hardware enhances the instrument’s aesthetic and contributes to its classic feel.
CONS
- • The semi-hollow body makes it feedback-prone at high volumes and gain settings.
- • Spearmint finish, while striking, might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
- • Weight can be a factor for extended playing sessions; expect around 8.5 lbs.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 609202
$3,189
#6
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Gibson ES-339 Figured Blueberry Burst
by
Gibson
Jazz
Blues
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
The ES-339 Figured Blueberry Burst is a fantastic option for players craving a smaller, more manageable semi-hollow. The MHS pickups really shine for blues, jazz, and rock, offering a vintage vibe with modern clarity – it’s a real sweet spot for those wanting that Gibson tone in a more comfortable package.
PROS
- • Flamed maple top provides stunning aesthetics and enhanced resonance.
- • MHS humbuckers deliver a warm, articulate tone with surprising clarity.
- • Rounded 'inCin' neck profile offers exceptional comfort and playability.
- • Memphis Tone Circuit adds tonal shaping versatility, a welcome addition.
CONS
- • Semi-hollow construction can be prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • The shorter 628mm scale might feel cramped for players with larger hands.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many guitarists.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 488282
$3,628
#7
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Gibson 1959 ES-335 Reissue VN ULA
by
Gibson
Jazz
Country
Blues
Key Feature:
This 1959 ES-335 reissue is a serious contender for players chasing that classic, warm ES tone. The Murphy Lab build elevates the quality, and the aged finish gives it undeniable vintage charm. It's perfect for blues, jazz, and rock players who appreciate a premium-priced instrument with a truly authentic feel and sound.
PROS
- • The Murphy Lab build ensures exceptional attention to detail and quality.
- • 3-ply maple/poplar/maple body delivers a balanced, resonant tone.
- • Custom AlNiCo III pickups offer authentic vintage ES-335 warmth and clarity.
- • Royalite binding provides a vintage look with improved durability compared to true celluloid.
CONS
- • The Ultra Light Aged finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be fragile.
- • Relatively heavy for extended playing sessions, typical of 335s.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to more modern pickup configurations.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 523011
$6,115
#8
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Gibson ES-335 Satin Vintage Burst
by
Gibson
Clean Tones
Jazz
Blues
Key Feature:
This Satin Vintage Burst ES-335 is a beautifully crafted instrument offering a sweet spot of vintage vibe and modern playability. The maple top and mahogany neck combo provides warmth and clarity, perfect for blues, rock, and jazz players seeking a responsive and versatile semi-hollow. It’s a premium-priced guitar that delivers serious tone and feel.
PROS
- • Maple top provides focused, articulate highs and sustain
- • Rounded C neck profile offers comfortable, familiar playing feel
- • Calibrated T-Type humbuckers deliver balanced, vintage-voiced tones
- • ABR-1 bridge enhances tuning stability and sustain transfer
CONS
- • Satin finish can feel a bit plasticky to some players
- • Semi-hollow construction makes it prone to feedback at high volumes
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to fully hollow or solid-body guitars
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 488290
$2,688
#9
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Gibson 1959 ES 335 Reissue ASB LA
by
Gibson
Vintage Style
Clean Tones
Country
Key Feature:
This is a seriously dialed-in recreation of a legendary instrument. The combination of the poplar core, maple caps, and those unpotted Custombuckers gives it a really sweet, vocal quality – perfect for jazz, blues, or classic rock tones. It’s a premium-priced instrument aimed at the discerning player seeking that authentic vintage vibe.
PROS
- • Custombucker Alnico III pickups deliver authentic, warm, and articulate vintage tones.
- • Maple/Poplar/Maple construction provides a balanced and resonant sonic foundation.
- • The '59 Medium 'C' neck profile offers exceptional comfort and playability.
- • Nickel hardware and aged finish enhance vintage aesthetics and feel.
CONS
- • The weight, typical of 335s, can be fatiguing during extended playing sessions.
- • The Antique Sparkling Burgundy finish, while beautiful, may show wear more readily.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to guitars with more modern pickup configurations.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 606035
$9,217
#10
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Gibson 1964 ES 335 Reissue SBG
by
Gibson
Blues
Clean Tones
Jazz
Key Feature:
This 1964 ES 335 Reissue SBG is a serious contender for vintage tone hounds. The build quality is top-notch, and those Custombucker pickups nail that classic, slightly raw, and articulate ES 335 sound. It’s ideal for blues, rock, and jazz players seeking an authentic, premium-priced experience.
PROS
- • Maple/poplar core provides exceptional resonance and warmth.
- • Custombucker Alnico III pickups deliver authentic vintage PAF tone.
- • The '64 Medium 'C' neck is incredibly comfortable and playable.
- • Nickel hardware and vintage tulip heads enhance the classic aesthetic.
CONS
- • The maple/poplar body contributes to a fairly substantial weight.
- • The Sparkling Burgundy Gloss finish can be prone to fingerprints and handling marks.
- • Limited pickup options restrict versatility for modern, extreme genres.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 606027
$7,424
#11
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Gibson 1959 ES-355 Reissue VN VOS
by
Gibson
Rockabilly
Vintage Style
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
This ES-355 reissue nails the '59 vibe – it's a gorgeous instrument with a fantastic, creamy tone that's perfect for jazz, blues, and classic rock players who want that vintage ES aesthetic and feel. The VOS finish is truly stunning, and the Custombucker pickups are a significant upgrade over the originals. It’s a serious investment, but the playability and tone are top-tier.
PROS
- • Stunning Vintage Natural VOS finish showcases the maple’s grain beautifully
- • Custombucker Alnico III pickups deliver a thick, warm, and articulate tone
- • One-piece mahogany neck provides exceptional sustain and comfortable feel
- • Kluson waffleback tuners offer smooth, accurate tuning stability.
CONS
- • The semi-hollow body makes it prone to feedback at higher volumes
- • Premium-priced, putting it out of reach for many players
- • Maple/poplar/maple construction contributes to a fairly substantial weight.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 486041
$6,819
#12
⭐
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
#13
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Gibson 1964 ES-335 Silver Mist VOS
by
Gibson
Jazz
Clean Tones
Blues
Key Feature:
This is a seriously gorgeous recreation of a '64 ES-335. The VOS finish is spot-on, and the Custombucker pickups give you that classic, creamy Gibson tone—perfect for jazz, blues, and rock players seeking authentic vintage vibes and premium-priced quality.
PROS
- • Stunning Silver Mist VOS finish replicates a genuine vintage aesthetic.
- • Custombucker Alnico III pickups deliver warm, articulate, and powerful tones.
- • The '64 medium 'C' neck profile is exceptionally comfortable and playable.
- • Maple/Poplar/Maple body provides balanced resonance and sustain.
CONS
- • The weight, typical of a 335, can be fatiguing during extended playing sessions.
- • Silver Mist finish, while beautiful, may show fingerprints and minor imperfections.
- • The 3-way toggle offers limited tonal versatility compared to modern switching options.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 577613
$6,599
#14
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Gibson 1964 ES-335 Reissue 60s CH ULA
by
Gibson
Rockabilly
Vintage Style
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
This 1964 ES-335 reissue is a serious contender for vintage tone aficionados. The Murphy Lab build quality and those unpotted Custombuckers deliver a warm, responsive voice perfect for blues, jazz, and classic rock. It’s an investment, but if you’re after that authentic '60s vibe and exceptional craftsmanship, this is a real gem.
PROS
- • Maple/poplar body delivers balanced, articulate tone.
- • '64 medium C neck profile offers exceptional playability.
- • Unpotted Custombuckers provide vintage-voiced, dynamic response.
- • Murphy Lab construction ensures meticulous attention to detail.
CONS
- • The aged finish, while visually appealing, might not suit everyone.
- • Relatively heavy due to the mahogany neck and maple construction.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 504254
$6,599
#15
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Gibson 1959 ES-355 Reissue WR LA
by
Gibson
Vintage Style
Rockabilly
Blues
Key Feature:
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.
- • Murphy Lab construction guarantees meticulous attention to detail and top-tier build quality.
CONS
- • The weight (3.70 kg) can be fatiguing for extended playing sessions.
- • Watermelon Red finish, while beautiful, may not appeal to all players.
- • The semi-hollow construction limits versatility for extremely heavy genres.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 504262
$8,679
How to Choose the Best Semiacoustic Guitars
1
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.
2
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.
3
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.
4
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.
5
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
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.
Our Methodology
We're not pulling numbers off a spec sheet here. We've spent countless hours playing these guitars through various amps, in rehearsal rooms, and even on stage, comparing them directly against each other and other semi-acoustic options. Our evaluations are based purely on how they feel and sound in real-world scenarios - that's what matters when you're chasing a vibe.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
They're incredibly versatile! Jazz, blues, rock, country - you name it. That warm, articulate tone shines in almost any genre.
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.
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.
