AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Semiacoustic Guitars Under $1,000 2026
The top pick is Gretsch G2622 Streamliner Center Block Double-Cut with V-Stoptail ($535). Harley Benton HB-35 VB Vintage Series gives you the most for the money at $223. Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Classic leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 56 models across 12 brands, 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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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↓ 13.1%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$615 · Aug 14$535 now$535€477 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$929 now$929€829 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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↓ 7.9%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$570 · Aug 14$526 now$526€469 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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↓ 3.9%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$570 · Aug 14$548 now$548€489 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width44.5 mm (1.75")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyNyatoh body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This guitar feels solid and plays fast thanks to the roasted maple neck and jumbo frets. The Nyatoh body gives it a nice hollow resonance that fits both blues and hard rock. It is a straightforward instrument with two humbuckers and standard controls, perfect for players who want a reliable, high-output tone without extra complexity.
Pros
- Nyatoh body offers a warm, hollow resonance unique to this model.
- Roasted maple neck provides a stable, fast-play feel.
- Graph Tech TUSQ nut ensures smooth string action and intonation.
Cons
- No specific weight rating is listed for this semi-hollow body.
- Two tone controls limit equalization compared to modern multi-band options.
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$873 now$873€779 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
The HB-35 VB is a surprisingly solid semi-hollow for the price. It's got a vintage vibe going on, with a warm, woody tone that's perfect for blues, classic rock, and even some jazz. This is an excellent option for players seeking that semi-hollow aesthetic and sound without a premium-priced investment.
Pros
- Maple body and arched top offer pleasing aesthetics and focused resonance.
- Canadian maple neck provides comfortable playability and good sustain.
- Vintage-style humbuckers deliver warm, thick tones suitable for blues and rock.
Cons
- Mahogany sustain block might feel a bit lightweight for some players’ preferences.
- Amaranth fretboard can be a bit harder than rosewood, requiring more conditioning.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$223 now$223€199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyAsh body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This guitar sounds bright and punchy thanks to its ash body and Super 58 pickups. The Nyatoh neck feels warm and smooth under your fingers. It is perfect for players who need a cutting tone in a band but want that vintage hollow-body vibe.
Pros
- Solid ash body provides bright, cutting tone for cutting through a mix.
- Nyatoh set-in neck offers a warm, vintage feel under the fingers.
- Super 58 humbuckers deliver strong output for rock and blues playing.
Cons
- Plastic nut may lack the smooth feel of a real bone alternative.
- Hollow body design requires careful handling to avoid unwanted feedback.
62AudioFu
Index↓ 6.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$835 · Aug 17$783 now$783€699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- BodySapele body
The AS53-TKF is a solid choice for gigging musicians or students wanting a semi-hollow body feel without the premium price tag. Its warm tone and comfortable neck make it a joy to play, and the Infinity R pickups handle a wide range of genres surprisingly well. It’s a great platform for someone looking to get that classic jazz or blues vibe going.
Pros
- Sapele body provides a warm, resonant tone with surprising projection
- Nyatoh neck offers comfortable playability and good sustain
- Infinity R humbuckers deliver a versatile range of tones, from blues to rock
Cons
- Sapele body can be a bit dense, leading to a heavier instrument overall
- Laurel fretboard, while playable, lacks the premium feel of rosewood or ebony
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$402 now$402€359 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMaple body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
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.
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.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$868 now$868€775 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMaple body
This Gretsch is a fantastic entry point into the semi-hollow world. The Broad'Tron pickups give it a really unique voice—think vintage rockabilly with a modern edge. It's a great choice for players wanting that Gretsch vibe without the premium price tag, perfect for blues, rock, and roots music.
Pros
- Broad'Tron pickups deliver a thick, articulate tone with great sustain.
- Maple top provides focused resonance and a snappy attack characteristic of Gretsch.
- Soft 'C' neck profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
Cons
- Maple body can feel a bit dense, making it slightly heavier than some alternatives.
- Laurel fretboard, while playable, isn't as luxurious as rosewood or ebony.
58AudioFu
Index↓ 13.1%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$615 · Aug 14$535 now$535€477 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 56 semiacoustic guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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Ibanez JSM10 John Scofield SignatureJSM10EM-TTB John Scofield · Ibanez · 2 finishes58↓ 2.8%$871€777$871€777Check ↗
- 12
Ibanez AG95QA Artcore ExpressionistAG95K-NT · Ibanez · 2 finishes57Stable$855€763$855€763Check ↗
- 13
Guild Newark St. Collection Starfire I Jet 90Starfire I Jet 90 Satin Black · Guild54↓ 1.0%$775€692$775€692Check ↗
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Ibanez AMH90 Artcore ExpressionistAMH90-BK · Ibanez54Stable$806€719$806€719Check ↗
- 15
Ibanez AM73G ArtcoreAM73G-BK · Ibanez53↓ 5.7%$559€499$559€499Check ↗
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Ibanez AS7312 ArtcoreAS7312-TCD · Ibanez53Stable$605€540$605€540Check ↗
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Ibanez AG75G ArtcoreAG75G-BS · Ibanez52Stable$615€549$615€549Check ↗
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Ibanez AR520HME Artist StandardAR520HME-NT · Ibanez52↓ 3.6%$839€749$839€749Check ↗
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Gretsch G5622T EMTC CB W/BIGS CDGGretsch · 3 finishes52↓ 7.2%$862€769$862€769Check ↗
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Harley Benton CST-24HB TOL Tob. Flame w/BagHarley Benton · 6 finishes50↓ 6.1%$346€309$346€309Check ↗
- 21
Ibanez AS7328 ArtcoreAS7328-TBC · Ibanez49Stable$660€589$660€589Check ↗
- 22
Epiphone Noel Gallagher Signature RivieraNoel Gallagher Riviera · Epiphone47Stable$918€819$918€819Check ↗
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Harley Benton RB-600CS Classic SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes46Stable$279€249$279€249Check ↗
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Epiphone ES-335 Figured Blueberry BurstEpiphone · 6 finishes46↓ 5.0%$638€569$638€569Check ↗
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Harley Benton Aeolus Frost Flame w/BagHarley Benton45↓ 2.2%$458€409$458€409Check ↗
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Höfner Verythin CT Special RedHöfner · 2 finishes45↓ 36.5%$498€444$498€444Check ↗
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Larry Carlton Q7 Hollow Transparent BlueLarry Carlton · 3 finishes45↓ 1.4%$772€689$772€689Check ↗
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Guild Starfire Deluxe DC GVTStarfire Deluxe DC NST · Guild · 10 finishes45Stable$895€799$895€799Check ↗
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Harley Benton Aeolus Frost FlameHarley Benton44Stable$447€399$447€399Check ↗
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Larry Carlton H7 BKLarry Carlton · 5 finishes44↓ 3.1%$705€629$705€629Check ↗
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Hagstrom '67 Viking IIViking Black · Hagstrom44Stable$839€749$839€749Check ↗
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Guild Starfire I DC California BurstGuild · 3 finishes43↓ 0.6%$779€695$779€695Check ↗
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DAngelico Premier DC Burnt RedDAngelico42Stable$716€639$716€639Check ↗
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Epiphone ES-339 Vintage SunburstEpiphone · 3 finishes41Stable$539€481$539€481Check ↗
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Hagstrom AlvarAlvar WCT · Hagstrom41Stable$783€699$783€699Check ↗
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DAngelico Premier Mini DC Solid BlackDAngelico40Stable$727€649$727€649Check ↗
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DAngelico Premier Mini DC Burnt RedDAngelico40Stable$727€649$727€649Check ↗
- 38
Epiphone Sheraton Vintage SunburstEpiphone40Stable$871€777$871€777Check ↗
- 39
DAngelico Premier DC Black Flake V2DAngelico40Stable$895€799$895€799Check ↗
- 40
DAngelico Premier DC Brown BurstDAngelico40Stable$929€829$929€829Check ↗
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Harley Benton TE-90QM HH Trans BlueHarley Benton39Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
- 42
Epiphone Casino Vintage SunburstEpiphone39Stable$670€598$670€598Check ↗
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Höfner Verythin CT Deluxe Special SBHöfner39Stable$671€599$671€599Check ↗
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Epiphone Casino Natural w/ Epi Pro P90Epiphone39Stable$716€639$716€639Check ↗
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Höfner Verythin CT Deluxe Special BluHöfner39Stable$783€699$783€699Check ↗
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Epiphone Marty Schwartz Signature ES-335Marty Schwartz ES-335 SC · Epiphone38Stable$951€849$951€849Check ↗
- 47
PRS SE Hollowbody Standard Dog HSBPRS38Stable$995€888$995€888Check ↗
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Guild Starfire I DC PelhamGuild37Stable$727€649$727€649Check ↗
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Guild Starfire I Jet 90 Gold TopGuild37↑ 3.6%$783€699$783€699Check ↗
- 50
Epiphone Emperor Swingster Delta BlueEpiphone37↓ 1.3%$839€749$839€749Check ↗
- 51
Epiphone Emperor Swingster Forest GreenEpiphone37Stable$839€749$839€749Check ↗
- 52
Höfner HCT-VTH-BK Verythin Contem.Höfner35Stable$593€529$593€529Check ↗
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Höfner HCT-VTH-R Verythin Contem.Höfner35Stable$671€599$671€599Check ↗
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Guild Starfire I DC EG w/VibratoGuild32↑ 10.7%$718€641$718€641Check ↗
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Squier Affinity Starcaster DLX OWTSquier30↑ 13.8%$369€329$369€329Check ↗
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Harley Benton Electric Guitar Kit HB35-StyleHarley Benton27Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
Semiacoustic Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 149 models we track, not a sample.
Median $605 — half of all semiacoustic guitars here cost less.
median of 143 models · 42 mm (1.65")–43 mm (1.69")
median of 136 models · 627 mm (24.69")–635 mm (25")
median of 97 models · 22–22
median of 72 models · 254 mm (10")–350 mm (13.78")
How to choose the best semiacoustic guitars
Tonewoods & Construction
Forget mahogany and maple - expect more basswood, nato, or laminate construction in this price bracket. Laminates aren't inherently bad; they can add stiffness and projection, but often at the expense of some acoustic resonance. Knowing what you're getting helps manage expectations.
Pickups
The pickups are everything in a semi-acoustic. You'll likely be looking at humbuckers or P90s, but voicing matters. Do they have that warm, creamy breakup for blues, or a more aggressive edge for rock? Often, cheaper pickups can sound muddy or brittle - a major dealbreaker.
Hardware & Tuning Stability
Cheap tuners are a nightmare - constant retuning mid-song is not a good look. Look for sealed tuners, even if they're basic, and check the bridge quality. A poorly made bridge can affect sustain and intonation.
Neck Profile & Playability
This is hugely subjective, but crucial. A chunky neck can feel awkward, while a thin neck might lack sustain. Try before you buy if possible, or research neck profiles online to see if it matches your preference. Action (string height) is also a big factor - lower action is easier to play, but too low can cause fret buzz.
Acoustic Resonance & Feedback
A semi-acoustic's acoustic properties are key. It's not going to rival a high-end archtop, but it should still have some natural warmth and projection. Be aware of feedback potential at higher volumes - cheaper models can be prone to it.
Buying guide
So, you want that hollow-body vibe, that extra resonance, but you're not dropping a grand-and-a-half? Totally get it. Semiacoustic guitars - they're fantastic for adding warmth and character, whether you're laying down a jazz rhythm, cutting through a blues band, or just wanting a different feel in your bedroom. We've hunted down the best options under $1000 that'll actually inspire you to play, not just sit in a corner gathering dust.
At this price point, you're making trade-offs. Don't expect premium tonewoods or flawless finishes. Focus on the neck feel and pickup voicing - those are the biggest factors in how the guitar sounds and feels.
Consider buying used; you can often snag a higher-spec model for the same price. And be realistic - a $700 semi-acoustic won't magically transform you into Charlie Christian.
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 149 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-hollow and a hollow body?
Hollow bodies are essentially acoustic guitars with pickups - lots of resonance, but prone to feedback. Semi-hollows have a solid center block, which reduces feedback and adds sustain, but still retains some acoustic properties.
Can I use a semi-acoustic for rock music?
Absolutely! While they're often associated with jazz and blues, the right pickups and amp settings can make them great for rock, blues-rock, and even some heavier styles. Just be mindful of feedback.
Are the stock pickups replaceable?
Yes! Almost always. That's a great way to upgrade the tone later on if you're happy with the guitar's overall feel but not the pickups. It's a common and relatively inexpensive mod.
What should I look for regarding feedback?
Feedback is a battle. Lower volume, careful amp placement, and potentially a feedback buster pedal are your allies. The quality of the guitar's construction and the pickups themselves play a big role.
Is a laminate body really that bad?
Not necessarily. Laminate construction is cheaper, but it can be surprisingly stable and project well. It just won't have the same acoustic complexity as solid wood. It's a trade-off to keep the price down.
