Best Ibanez Semiacoustic Guitars 2026
So, you're looking at an Ibanez semi-acoustic? Smart move. They've carved out a really unique niche - that blend of rock-solid build, comfortable playability, and surprisingly versatile tone that works just as well tracking clean jazz tones as it does laying down a gritty blues riff. Forget the marketing hype; we're breaking down what makes Ibanez semi-acoustics tick and which models are actually worth your hard-earned cash.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best semiacoustic guitars in 2026 are Ibanez JSM10-VYS John Scofield (top pick), Ibanez PM3C-NAL Pat Metheny for tighter budgets, and Ibanez PM3C-BKL Pat Metheny for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $383–$3,628, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
6/10
Ibanez JSM10-VYS John Scofield
by
Ibanez
Jazz
Rockabilly
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
This Ibanez JSM10-VYS is a fantastic semi-hollow for players who dig Scofield's clean and slightly gritty tones. The flamed maple body gives it a really nice warmth, and the ebony fretboard makes it a joy to play. It's a premium-priced instrument ideal for jazz, blues, and fusion players wanting a focused, quality feel.
PROS
- • Flamed maple body delivers a warm, resonant, and articulate tone.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and speed under the fingers.
- • Super 58 pickups provide a versatile range from clean to overdriven.
- • Set-in neck construction enhances sustain and provides comfortable playability.
CONS
- • The 6.66 cm body depth might be a bit chunky for some players.
- • The shorter 628 mm scale length might feel cramped for players used to longer scales.
- • Limited pickup configuration restricts tonal versatility compared to some alternatives.
⭐
4.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 352386
$1,388
#2
⭐
3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Ibanez PM3C-NAL Pat Metheny
by
Ibanez
Jazz
Blues
Country
Key Feature:
This PM3C-NAL is a beautifully crafted semihollow, clearly designed for players who love Pat Metheny's signature sound. The shorter scale and single-coil pickup combination create a unique, warm voice that really shines in jazz, fusion, and clean, articulate styles. It's a premium-priced instrument ideal for serious players seeking a focused and refined tone.
PROS
- • Spruce top delivers exceptional clarity and resonance for nuanced playing
- • Nyatoh/Maple neck provides a comfortable, stable feel and excellent sustain
- • PM special single-coil offers a warm, articulate tone perfect for jazz and fusion
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, fast playing surface with excellent note definition
CONS
- • Hollow body construction makes it somewhat prone to feedback at higher volumes
- • Scale length is shorter than standard, potentially affecting intonation for some players
- • Limited pickup options restrict versatility outside of its core sonic territory
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3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 597476
$1,711
#3
⭐
3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Ibanez PM3C-BKL Pat Metheny
by
Ibanez
Rockabilly
Jazz
Country
Key Feature:
This Pat Metheny signature is a beautifully crafted semihollow, designed for nuanced jazz and clean, articulate tones. The acrylic inlays and bone nut are a nice touch, and the neck profile is wonderfully comfortable for long playing sessions. It’s a premium-priced instrument, perfect for the discerning player seeking a refined, focused sound.
PROS
- • Spruce top delivers exceptional clarity and responsiveness across the tonal spectrum.
- • Nyatoh/Maple neck provides excellent stability and a comfortable, familiar profile.
- • The PM special single-coil pickup offers a uniquely smooth, articulate voice.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a fast, smooth playing experience and excellent note definition.
CONS
- • The hollowbody construction makes it somewhat heavier than a solid-body guitar.
- • The push/pull tone control can feel a little fiddly and less intuitive.
- • Limited pickup options restrict versatility for players seeking aggressive tones.
⭐
3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 597478
$1,639
#4
⭐
3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Ibanez JSM10EM-TTB John Scofield
by
Ibanez
Jazz
Country
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
This JSM10EM-TTB is a fantastic option for players wanting Scofield's signature feel and tone without the premium price tag. The semi-hollow construction provides a lively response, while the Super 58 pickups handle a wide range of styles, making it ideal for jazz, blues, and fusion. It's a really well-built and versatile instrument for the discerning player.
PROS
- • Scofield's signature neck profile offers excellent playability and comfortable access.
- • Basswood body provides a warm, resonant foundation for a balanced tone.
- • Super 58 pickups deliver a versatile range, from clean to overdriven grit.
- • Walnut fingerboard adds a touch of refinement and a smooth playing experience.
CONS
- • Basswood body can lack the sustain of more premium tonewoods like mahogany.
- • Plastic nut is a cost-saving measure; an upgrade would improve tuning stability.
- • The shorter scale length limits low-end extension compared to a full-size guitar.
⭐
3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 597479
$879
#5
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3.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Ibanez GB10-BK
by
Ibanez
Country
Rockabilly
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
This GB10-BK is a beautifully crafted instrument, clearly designed for the discerning jazz and smooth-style player. The combination of maple, spruce, and ebony creates a sophisticated tone with a refined feel, and the flatwound strings nail that classic Benson vibe. It’s a serious guitar for serious players who appreciate top-tier Japanese construction.
PROS
- • Maple/Spruce construction delivers warm, focused, resonant tones.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and smooth playability.
- • Gotoh machine heads provide reliable tuning stability and feel.
- • Japan-made build quality ensures excellent craftsmanship and longevity.
CONS
- • The semi-hollow body can be prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • 24.75in scale limits versatility for players preferring longer scales.
- • Premium-priced, putting it out of reach for many aspiring players.
⭐
3.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 610377
$3,629
#6
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3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Ibanez AMH100FM-DVS
by
Ibanez
Jazz
Rockabilly
Blues
Key Feature:
The AMH100FM-DVS is a surprisingly versatile semi-hollow offering a lot of bang for your buck. It’s got that warm, woody resonance you crave, combined with the punch of those Super 58 pickups, making it great for blues, rock, and even some jazz. This is a solid choice for players wanting a semi-hollow feel without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Flamed maple top offers striking aesthetics and enhanced resonance
- • Nyatoh/maple neck provides a comfortable, stable feel and good sustain
- • Super 58 pickups deliver a powerful, versatile, rock-ready tone
- • Gibraltar Artist bridge offers excellent stability and tuning precision
CONS
- • Hollowbody construction makes it somewhat heavier than a solid-body guitar
- • Tri-Sound switch offers limited tonal variation compared to more complex routing
- • Macassar ebony fingerboard can be prone to dryness requiring occasional maintenance
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3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 615220
$1,099
#7
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3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Ibanez AS93QMSP-DBS
by
Ibanez
Jazz
Clean Tones
Blues
Key Feature:
The AS93QMSP-DBS is a seriously impressive semi-hollow. It's got that warm, jazzy vibe but with enough punch from the Super 88s to handle blues, rock, and even some mellow rockabilly. It’s a great option for players wanting that classic semi-hollow feel without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Quilted maple top provides stunning aesthetics and focused resonance.
- • Super 88 pickups deliver a thick, powerful tone with surprising clarity.
- • Nyatoh/Maple neck offers a comfortable, stable feel and good sustain.
- • Gibraltar Performer bridge enhances stability and tuning precision.
CONS
- • Quilted maple construction can make it noticeably heavier than solid-body guitars.
- • The 'Tree of Life' inlays are a stylistic choice that won't appeal to everyone.
- • While versatile, it leans towards warmer tones; high-gain shredding isn't its forte.
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 607115
$989
#8
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3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Ibanez AR520HFM-LBB
by
Ibanez
Jazz
Rockabilly
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
The AR520HFM-LBB is a seriously cool semi-hollow Ibanez, offering a lot of vibe and versatility for the money. The neck profile is comfortable, the pickups are surprisingly punchy, and the Tri-Sound switches really expand your tonal palette. This is a fantastic choice for players who want a unique look and a warm, responsive tone for blues, rock, and even some jazz.
PROS
- • Maple/Okoume body offers a warm, resonant tone with surprising projection.
- • Super 58 pickups deliver a powerful, articulate sound suitable for rock and blues.
- • Jatoba fingerboard provides a smooth playing experience with a unique feel.
- • Tri-Sound switches add tonal flexibility for varied clean and overdriven sounds.
CONS
- • The lighter blue burst finish might not appeal to players seeking a more traditional look.
- • Neck-thru construction can make neck adjustments slightly more complex for DIY repairs.
- • While versatile, the hollow body limits its suitability for extremely heavy genres.
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 533433
$769
#9
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
9/10
Ibanez AS73-TBC Bundle
by
Ibanez
Jazz
Vintage Style
Blues
Key Feature:
The Ibanez AS73-TBC is a seriously cool, budget-friendly semi-hollow. It's got that vintage vibe with a modern Ibanez feel – comfortable neck, reliable hardware. Perfect for blues, jazz, and classic rock players looking for a great tone without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Maple body provides a bright, articulate tone with good sustain.
- • Classic Elite humbuckers deliver a warm, vintage-inspired output.
- • 24.75 in scale offers comfortable playability, especially for smaller hands.
- • ART-1 bridge facilitates easy string changes and stable intonation.
CONS
- • Tobacco Brown finish might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
- • Gig bag is functional, but a hard case would offer better protection.
- • Semi-hollow construction can be prone to feedback at higher volumes.
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 367306
$527
#10
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
9/10
Ibanez AM53 Tobacco Flat
by
Ibanez
Rockabilly
Country
Blues
Key Feature:
The AM53 is a solid entry point into the semi-hollow world. It's surprisingly versatile for a budget-friendly instrument, offering a warm, woody tone perfect for blues, jazz, and lighter rock. It's a great option for students or players wanting a vintage vibe without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers a surprisingly warm, resonant tone for its price.
- • Nyatoh neck provides comfortable playability with a familiar, slightly vintage feel.
- • Infinity R pickups offer a decent balance of clarity and output for various styles.
- • Gibraltar Performer bridge enhances sustain and provides stable tuning performance.
CONS
- • Basswood construction, while warm, lacks the sustain of more premium tonewoods.
- • Walnut fingerboard can feel a little 'slick' for players preferring a more textured feel.
- • Limited tonal versatility; not ideal for extremely heavy or modern genres.
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 578754
$384
#11
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
8/10
Ibanez AS93FM-TMG
by
Ibanez
Clean Tones
Blues
Rockabilly
Key Feature:
The AS93FM-TMG is a fantastic entry point into the semi-hollow world. It nails that vintage vibe with a modern playability twist, and the Transparent Moss Green finish is just gorgeous. This guitar’s a sweet deal for gigging musicians needing a reliable, good-looking instrument for blues, rock, and jazz.
PROS
- • Flamed maple top provides a striking aesthetic and enhanced resonance.
- • Super 80 pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and powerful tone.
- • Nyatoh/Maple neck offers a comfortable, stable feel and good sustain.
- • Gibraltar Performer bridge improves stability and provides a secure anchoring point.
CONS
- • Hollow body construction can make it prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • The 'U' neck profile might not suit players preferring a thinner, modern feel.
- • Limited pickup versatility; primarily suited for rock and blues tones.
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 607119
$853
#12
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Ibanez AS113-BS
by
Ibanez
Rockabilly
Clean Tones
Blues
Key Feature:
The AS113-BS is a seriously impressive semihollow, offering a lot of quality for the price. It's got that classic Artstar vibe with a warm, full tone that really shines for jazz, blues, and lighter rock styles. This is a great option for players looking for a vintage-inspired feel and look without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Flamed maple top provides stunning aesthetics and tonal complexity.
- • Super 58 pickups deliver a warm, articulate, and surprisingly powerful voice.
- • Nyatoh/Maple neck offers a comfortable feel and good stability.
- • Gibraltar Artist bridge enhances sustain and tuning stability.
CONS
- • Hollow body construction makes it inherently feedback-prone at higher volumes.
- • Brown Sunburst finish might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
- • Scale length limits versatility for extreme down-tuning or extended range playing.
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 533444
$1,033
#13
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Ibanez AS93SP-BK
by
Ibanez
Blues
Rockabilly
Country
Key Feature:
The AS93SP-BK is a solid choice for gigging musicians wanting a semi-hollow with serious punch. The Super 80 pickups give it a vintage vibe, and the build quality is surprisingly good for its class. It’s an excellent all-rounder for players who need a reliable instrument for a wide range of styles.
PROS
- • Basswood construction delivers a surprisingly warm and balanced tone.
- • Super 80 pickups offer a thick, creamy overdrive potential.
- • Macassar ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • Gibraltar Performer bridge enhances sustain and tuning stability.
CONS
- • Basswood, while affordable, lacks the premium resonance of mahogany or maple.
- • The neck profile, while comfortable, may not suit players preferring a thinner feel.
- • Limited pickup versatility; primarily suited for rock, blues, and jazz tones.
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 607117
$879
#14
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
8/10
Ibanez AS93BC BK
by
Ibanez
Country
Clean Tones
Blues
Key Feature:
The AS93BC is a really solid semi-hollow option for players looking for a vintage vibe without the extreme cost. It's surprisingly versatile – you can get away with everything from bluesy licks to punchy rock tones. Ideal for gigging musicians or students wanting a quality instrument with a great feel.
PROS
- • Maple body delivers focused resonance and sustain.
- • Nyatoh/maple neck offers comfortable playability and stability.
- • Super 58 pickups provide warm, articulate vintage-inspired tones.
- • Macassar ebony fingerboard ensures smooth, fast playing and durability.
CONS
- • The shorter 24.72” scale can feel cramped for players used to longer scales.
- • The all-maple construction might lack some warmth for certain players’ tastes.
- • Hardware, while functional, feels a little budget-oriented for the price.
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 573902
$791
#15
⭐
3.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
8/10
Ibanez AG95K-NT
by
Ibanez
Rockabilly
Jazz
Country
Key Feature:
The AG95K-NT is a seriously well-built semi-hollow that's a joy to play. It's fantastic for jazz, blues, and classic rock players seeking a warm, articulate tone with a touch of vintage character – a great option if you want that hollowbody vibe without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Acacia construction delivers a warm, resonant tone with surprising projection.
- • Super 58 pickups offer a balanced, vintage-inspired output with plenty of grit.
- • Macassar ebony fingerboard provides a slick, comfortable playing experience.
- • Nyatoh/Maple neck offers stability and a pleasant feel under the hand.
CONS
- • Acacia body can be prone to feedback at higher volumes without careful amp settings.
- • The shorter scale length limits low-end extension compared to longer-scale instruments.
- • While versatile, it's not ideal for heavily distorted, modern metal tones.
⭐
3.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 577688
$839
How to Choose the Best Semiacoustic Guitars
1
Neck Profile & Playability
Ibanez is known for their comfortable, slim neck profiles - often their Wizard necks. This makes them a breeze to shred on, but might feel a little too thin for players who prefer a chunkier, vintage vibe. The action is generally low and consistent, which is great for fast playing, but might require a setup tweak for a higher action feel.
2
Pickup Voicing & Tone
Most Ibanez semi-acoustics lean towards a brighter, more articulate tone than some of their Gibson counterparts. Expect a clear, defined low-end thump that cuts through the mix, but don't necessarily expect that thick, swampy, vintage warmth. Pickup swaps are common if you're chasing a more classic, bluesy sound.
3
Body Resonance & Acoustic Projection
The hollow body design is key here. Ibanez generally uses mahogany or mahogany-inspired tonewoods, which provides a good balance of warmth and clarity. Acoustic projection isn't going to rival a dreadnought, but it's plenty loud enough for smaller gigs or practicing without being plugged in.
4
Hardware & Build Quality
Ibanez's hardware is generally reliable, though the stock tuners can sometimes feel a little budget-oriented. The build quality is consistently good - you're not getting cheap plywood here - but the finishes can occasionally be a bit thin on lower-end models. It's a trade-off for the price.
5
Versatility & Genre Suitability
These guitars are incredibly versatile. They shine in blues, rock, jazz, and even some funk styles. The bright, articulate tone lends itself well to clean tones and light overdrive, but can also handle heavier gain when you need it. It's a jack-of-all-trades, master of many.
Buying Guide
Don't be swayed by flashy aesthetics; focus on the neck profile and pickup voicing. Higher-end models (like the AS93 or AS103) will have better pickups and hardware, and a generally more refined feel, but the lower-end AS73 or AS53 models offer incredible value if you're on a budget. Watch out for overly bright, ice-picky high frequencies - a simple EQ tweak or pickup swap can often fix this.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page ranks 15 semiacoustic guitars from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category.
Position is computed, not curated. Four signals, in order of weight: how completely the manufacturer documents the instrument (number of published specifications), where it sits in the price range, how specific the model designation is — which filters out generic accessories — and whether a product image exists. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. The clarity and articulation are fantastic for clean blues tones, and they handle overdrive surprisingly well. Just be mindful of the brightness - a warmer pickup might be needed for a more traditional blues sound.
Definitely. The pickup routings are standard, so finding aftermarket replacements is easy. It's a common upgrade for players looking to change the tonal character.
Not quite. The semi-hollow construction offers a balance of acoustic projection and feedback resistance. A full-hollow will have more acoustic 'boom,' but might be more prone to feedback at higher volumes.
The AS93 generally has higher-grade tonewoods, better pickups (often with Alnico magnets), and upgraded hardware like Gotoh tuners. The build quality and finish are also typically more refined, justifying the price jump.
Semi-acoustics are more prone to feedback than solid-body guitars, especially at high volumes. Careful amp placement, using a noise gate, and potentially adding a feedback buster can help mitigate this.
