AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best Semiacoustic Guitars Under $2,000 2026

Q: What's the difference between semi-hollow and hollow body?

Hollow bodies have more air space, giving them a more acoustic-like resonance but are prone to feedback. Semi-hollows have a solid center block, reducing feedback and adding sustain while retaining some of that hollow-body character.

Q: Are these guitars good for recording?

Absolutely, but consider the pickups. A warmer voicing will generally record better than something overly bright. DI recording is a great option too, especially with a good preamp.

Q: Will a cheaper semi-acoustic sound as good as a $3000 one?

No, of course not. You'll notice better wood, more refined construction, and higher-quality components. However, a well-chosen guitar under $2000 can still sound fantastic and be a joy to play.

Q: What about feedback when playing live?

Feedback is a risk with any hollow or semi-hollow. Keep the volume reasonable, be mindful of mic placement, and consider a feedback suppressor if necessary. The solid center block in a semi-hollow helps significantly.

Q: What's the deal with nitrocellulose finishes?

Nitro finishes are thinner and tend to 'breathe' more than poly finishes, potentially offering a more resonant tone. They also age beautifully, developing a patina over time, but they're more delicate and often pricier to apply.

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 105 models across 16 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 12, 2026

105models in this chart

16brands

$817median price

64price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All Semiacoustic Guitars Showing: Under $2,000 · clear

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Top 10

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

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 ↗
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 ↗
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 ↗
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 ↗
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 ↗
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 ↗
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 ↗
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 ↗
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 ↗
PRS SE Hollowbody II Piezo
SE Hollowbody II Piezo PBSB · PRS
89 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets22 frets
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This guitar mixes classic hollow body warmth with modern piezo clarity. The mahogany body and PRS humbuckers give it a thick, vintage tone, while the dual input jack lets you blend signals. It's a great choice for players who want a full-sized sound without the high cost of a standard PRS.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body with flamed maple top for warmth and resonance.
- Dual input sockets let you mix magnetic and piezo signals easily.
- Two PRS 58/15 LT humbuckers provide strong, classic rock tone.
Cons
- Heavy mahogany construction may feel bulky for some players.
- No weight specification listed, making balance uncertain.
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 105 semiacoustic guitars

Sort

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

11
PRS SE Hollowbody II PiezoSE Hollowbody II LTD CB · PRS · 2 finishes

Index 63Stable
63
Stable$1,456€1,299
$1,456€1,299Check ↗
12
Ibanez PM3C Pat Metheny SignaturePM3C-NAL Pat Metheny · Ibanez · 2 finishes

Index 63↓ 4.2%
63
↓ 4.2%$1,670€1,490
$1,670€1,490Check ↗
13
Harley Benton HB-35 VB Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 35 finishes

Index 62Stable
62
Stable$223€199
$223€199Check ↗
14
Ibanez AM93ME Artcore ExpressionistAM93QA-JBB · Ibanez · 3 finishes

Index 62↓ 6.2%
62
↓ 6.2%$783€699
$783€699Check ↗
15
Gretsch G5422TG Electromatic ClassicG5422TG Electromatic SW · Gretsch · 2 finishes

Index 62Stable
62
Stable$1,112€992
$1,112€992Check ↗
16
Ibanez AS53 ArtcoreAS53-TKF Artcore · Ibanez · 2 finishes

Index 61Stable
61
Stable$402€359
$402€359Check ↗
17
Ibanez AS93SP Artcore ExpressionistAS93FM-TMG · Ibanez · 5 finishes

Index 60Stable
60
Stable$868€775
$868€775Check ↗
18
Gretsch G2655 STRML CB JR DC VLAMBGretsch · 7 finishes

Index 58↓ 13.1%
58
↓ 13.1%$535€477
$535€477Check ↗
19
Ibanez JSM10 John Scofield SignatureJSM10EM-TTB John Scofield · Ibanez · 2 finishes

Index 58↓ 2.8%
58
↓ 2.8%$871€777
$871€777Check ↗
20
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 ↗
21
Ibanez AG95QA Artcore ExpressionistAG95K-NT · Ibanez · 2 finishes

Index 57Stable
57
Stable$855€763
$855€763Check ↗
22
Ibanez AS113 Artstar StandardAS113-BS · Ibanez

Index 55↓ 4.4%
55
↓ 4.4%$1,006€898
$1,006€898Check ↗
23
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 ↗
24
Ibanez AMH90 Artcore ExpressionistAMH90-BK · Ibanez

Index 54Stable
54
Stable$806€719
$806€719Check ↗
25
Ibanez AM73G ArtcoreAM73G-BK · Ibanez

Index 53↓ 5.7%
53
↓ 5.7%$559€499
$559€499Check ↗
26
Ibanez AS7312 ArtcoreAS7312-TCD · Ibanez

Index 53Stable
53
Stable$605€540
$605€540Check ↗
27
Ibanez AG75G ArtcoreAG75G-BS · Ibanez

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$615€549
$615€549Check ↗
28
Ibanez AR520HME Artist StandardAR520HME-NT · Ibanez

Index 52↓ 3.6%
52
↓ 3.6%$839€749
$839€749Check ↗
29
Gretsch G5622T EMTC CB W/BIGS CDGGretsch · 3 finishes

Index 52↓ 7.2%
52
↓ 7.2%$862€769
$862€769Check ↗
30
Hagstrom '67 Viking II´67 Viking II WCT · Hagstrom

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$1,119€999
$1,119€999Check ↗
31
Ibanez ASH300 ArtstarASH300-TBC · Ibanez

Index 52↓ 8.7%
52
↓ 8.7%$1,534€1,369
$1,534€1,369Check ↗
32
Harley Benton CST-24HB TOL Tob. Flame w/BagHarley Benton · 6 finishes

Index 50↓ 6.1%
50
↓ 6.1%$346€309
$346€309Check ↗
33
Ibanez AS7328 ArtcoreAS7328-TBC · Ibanez

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$660€589
$660€589Check ↗
34
Gretsch G5655TG Electromatic AZMGretsch · 4 finishes

Index 48Stable
48
Stable$1,007€899
$1,007€899Check ↗
35
Epiphone Noel Gallagher Signature RivieraNoel Gallagher Riviera · Epiphone

Index 47Stable
47
Stable$918€819
$918€819Check ↗
36
Ibanez AM153QA Artstar StandardAM153QA-DBS · Ibanez · 2 finishes

Index 47Stable
47
Stable$1,344€1,199
$1,344€1,199Check ↗
37
Harley Benton RB-600CS Classic SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes

Index 46Stable
46
Stable$279€249
$279€249Check ↗
38
Epiphone ES-335 Figured Blueberry BurstEpiphone · 6 finishes

Index 46↓ 5.0%
46
↓ 5.0%$638€569
$638€569Check ↗
39
Ibanez JSM20 John Scofield SignatureJSM20-BKL · Ibanez

Index 46↑ 4.3%
46
↑ 4.3%$1,299€1,159
$1,299€1,159Check ↗
40
DAngelico Deluxe DC Satin Trans WineDAngelico · 5 finishes

Index 46Stable
46
Stable$1,792€1,599
$1,792€1,599Check ↗
41
Harley Benton Aeolus Frost Flame w/BagHarley Benton

Index 45↓ 2.2%
45
↓ 2.2%$458€409
$458€409Check ↗
42
Höfner Verythin CT Special RedHöfner · 2 finishes

Index 45↓ 36.5%
45
↓ 36.5%$498€444
$498€444Check ↗
43
Larry Carlton Q7 Hollow Transparent BlueLarry Carlton · 3 finishes

Index 45↓ 1.4%
45
↓ 1.4%$772€689
$772€689Check ↗
44
Guild Starfire Deluxe DC GVTStarfire Deluxe DC NST · Guild · 10 finishes

Index 45Stable
45
Stable$895€799
$895€799Check ↗
45
Gretsch Synchromatic Nashville 50s OSGretsch

Index 45Stable
45
Stable$1,220€1,089
$1,220€1,089Check ↗
46
Epiphone 1962 ES-335 Reissue Sixties ChEpiphone · 2 finishes

Index 45↓ 9.9%
45
↓ 9.9%$1,261€1,125
$1,261€1,125Check ↗
47
DAngelico Excel Mini DC Trans Cherry 25DAngelico

Index 45↓ 6.3%
45
↓ 6.3%$1,680€1,499
$1,680€1,499Check ↗
48
Harley Benton Aeolus Frost FlameHarley Benton

Index 44Stable
44
Stable$447€399
$447€399Check ↗
49
Larry Carlton H7 BKLarry Carlton · 5 finishes

Index 44↓ 3.1%
44
↓ 3.1%$705€629
$705€629Check ↗
50
Hagstrom '67 Viking IIViking Black · Hagstrom

Index 44Stable
44
Stable$839€749
$839€749Check ↗
51
Ibanez AF115-AWBIbanez

Index 44↓ 4.2%
44
↓ 4.2%$1,030€919
$1,030€919Check ↗
52
DAngelico Premier EXL1 Honey BlondeDAngelico · 2 finishes

Index 44↓ 9.1%
44
↓ 9.1%$1,119€999
$1,119€999Check ↗
53
Guild Starfire Custom DC GVTStarfire Custom DC GVT ST · Guild · 5 finishes

Index 44Stable
44
Stable$1,288€1,149
$1,288€1,149Check ↗
54
PRS SE Ed Sheeran Cosmic SplashPRS

Index 44↓ 6.3%
44
↓ 6.3%$1,679€1,498
$1,679€1,498Check ↗
55
DAngelico Deluxe Bobby Weir 3 MSDAngelico · 2 finishes

Index 44Stable
44
Stable$1,960€1,749
$1,960€1,749Check ↗
56
DAngelico Excel SS AmberDAngelico · 3 finishes

Index 44Stable
44
Stable$1,960€1,749
$1,960€1,749Check ↗
57
DAngelico Excel Mini DC AmberDAngelico · 2 finishes

Index 44Stable
44
Stable$1,960€1,749
$1,960€1,749Check ↗
58
Guild Starfire I DC California BurstGuild · 3 finishes

Index 43↓ 0.6%
43
↓ 0.6%$779€695
$779€695Check ↗
59
DAngelico Premier DC Burnt RedDAngelico

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$716€639
$716€639Check ↗
60
DAngelico Deluxe 59 Satin Brown BurstDAngelico · 2 finishes

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$1,792€1,599
$1,792€1,599Check ↗
61
DAngelico Excel 59 Trans CherryDAngelico · 2 finishes

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$1,904€1,699
$1,904€1,699Check ↗
62
DAngelico Excel Mini DC Amaretto BurstDAngelico

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$1,960€1,749
$1,960€1,749Check ↗
63
Epiphone ES-339 Vintage SunburstEpiphone · 3 finishes

Index 41Stable
41
Stable$539€481
$539€481Check ↗
64
Hagstrom AlvarAlvar WCT · Hagstrom

Index 41Stable
41
Stable$783€699
$783€699Check ↗
65
Stanford CR Thinline 30Stanford · 2 finishes

Index 41↓ 4.6%
41
↓ 4.6%$1,176€1,049
$1,176€1,049Check ↗
66
DAngelico Deluxe Mini DC Satin Trans WinDAngelico

Index 41↓ 2.9%
41
↓ 2.9%$1,848€1,649
$1,848€1,649Check ↗
67
DAngelico Premier Mini DC Solid BlackDAngelico

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$727€649
$727€649Check ↗
68
DAngelico Premier Mini DC Burnt RedDAngelico

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$727€649
$727€649Check ↗
69
Epiphone Sheraton Vintage SunburstEpiphone

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$871€777
$871€777Check ↗
70
DAngelico Premier DC Black Flake V2DAngelico

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$895€799
$895€799Check ↗
71
DAngelico Premier DC Brown BurstDAngelico

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$929€829
$929€829Check ↗
72
DAngelico Excel 59 ViolaDAngelico

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$1,344€1,199
$1,344€1,199Check ↗
73
DAngelico Excel 59 Solid BlackDAngelico

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$1,400€1,249
$1,400€1,249Check ↗
74
DAngelico Excel Mini DC ViolaDAngelico

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$1,679€1,498
$1,679€1,498Check ↗
75
PRS SE Ed Sheeran Pink OmbrePRS

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$1,904€1,699
$1,904€1,699Check ↗
76
PRS SE Ed Sheeran Orange Tiger SBPRS

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$1,904€1,699
$1,904€1,699Check ↗
77
Harley Benton TE-90QM HH Trans BlueHarley Benton

Index 39Stable
39
Stable$245€219
$245€219Check ↗
78
Epiphone Casino Vintage SunburstEpiphone

Index 39Stable
39
Stable$670€598
$670€598Check ↗
79
Höfner Verythin CT Deluxe Special SBHöfner

Index 39Stable
39
Stable$671€599
$671€599Check ↗
80
Epiphone Casino Natural w/ Epi Pro P90Epiphone

Index 39Stable
39
Stable$716€639
$716€639Check ↗
81
Höfner Verythin CT Deluxe Special BluHöfner

Index 39Stable
39
Stable$783€699
$783€699Check ↗
82
Epiphone Futura ES-355 Dragonfly ShiftEpiphone · 2 finishes

Index 39Stable
39
Stable$1,031€920
$1,031€920Check ↗
83
Epiphone Alex Lifeson 1976 ES-355 Re AWEpiphone

Index 39Stable
39
Stable$1,456€1,299
$1,456€1,299Check ↗
84
DAngelico Excel DC XT Vintage Nat QuiltDAngelico

Index 39↓ 2.9%
39
↓ 2.9%$1,848€1,649
$1,848€1,649Check ↗
85
Epiphone Marty Schwartz Signature ES-335Marty Schwartz ES-335 SC · Epiphone

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$951€849
$951€849Check ↗
86
PRS SE Hollowbody Standard Dog HSBPRS

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$995€888
$995€888Check ↗
87
DAngelico Excel Mini DC Black DogDAngelico

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$1,568€1,399
$1,568€1,399Check ↗
88
DAngelico Excel SS ViolaDAngelico

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$1,736€1,549
$1,736€1,549Check ↗
89
DAngelico Excel DC ViolaDAngelico

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$1,792€1,599
$1,792€1,599Check ↗
90
DAngelico Excel DC XT Iced Tea QuiltDAngelico

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$1,792€1,599
$1,792€1,599Check ↗
91
PRS SE Ed Sheeran KaleidoscopePRS

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$1,904€1,699
$1,904€1,699Check ↗
92
DAngelico Excel SS Solid BlackDAngelico

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$1,904€1,699
$1,904€1,699Check ↗
93
Guild Starfire I DC PelhamGuild

Index 37Stable
37
Stable$727€649
$727€649Check ↗
94
Guild Starfire I Jet 90 Gold TopGuild

Index 37↑ 3.6%
37
↑ 3.6%$783€699
$783€699Check ↗
95
Epiphone Emperor Swingster Delta BlueEpiphone

Index 37↓ 1.3%
37
↓ 1.3%$839€749
$839€749Check ↗
96
Epiphone Emperor Swingster Forest GreenEpiphone

Index 37Stable
37
Stable$839€749
$839€749Check ↗
97
Stanford CR Thinline 35 CherryStanford · 2 finishes

Index 37Stable
37
Stable$1,400€1,249
$1,400€1,249Check ↗
98
Heritage Guitar Ascent+ H-535 SunburstHeritage Guitar

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$1,007€899
$1,007€899Check ↗
99
Reverend Roundhouse Air HH Met BordeauxReverend

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$1,557€1,389
$1,557€1,389Check ↗
100
Höfner HCT-VTH-BK Verythin Contem.Höfner

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$593€529
$593€529Check ↗
101
Höfner HCT-VTH-R Verythin Contem.Höfner

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$671€599
$671€599Check ↗
102
Guild Starfire I DC EG w/VibratoGuild

Index 32↑ 10.7%
32
↑ 10.7%$718€641
$718€641Check ↗
103
Ibanez AMH100FM ArtstarAMH100FM-DVS · Ibanez

Index 32Stable
32
Stable$1,119€999
$1,119€999Check ↗
104
Squier Affinity Starcaster DLX OWTSquier

Index 30↑ 13.8%
30
↑ 13.8%$369€329
$369€329Check ↗
105
Harley Benton Electric Guitar Kit HB35-StyleHarley Benton

Index 27Stable
27
Stable$201€179
$201€179Check ↗

Semiacoustic Guitars by the numbers

Measured across all 240 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $817 — half of all semiacoustic guitars here cost less.

<$300$300–400$400–500$500–750$750–1k$1k–1.5k$1.5k+

Nut width43 mm (1.69")

median of 222 models · 42 mm (1.65")–43 mm (1.69")

Scale628 mm (24.72")

median of 224 models · 627 mm (24.69")–648 mm (25.51")

Frets22

median of 160 models · 22–22

Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")

median of 112 models · 254 mm (10")–305 mm (12.01")

How to choose the best semiacoustic guitars

Construction

Solid, semi-hollow, or laminate - this dictates resonance and sustain. Laminate is cheaper, but often sounds a bit 'dead.' A solid center block is a good compromise for feedback resistance.

Pickups

Crucial for the overall tone. Expect Alnico V pickups to offer a warmer, more vintage vibe than ceramic ones. The voicing needs to complement the body style - bright pickups can sound harsh in a hollow body.

Hardware

Tuners, bridge, and tailpiece all impact tuning stability and sustain. Decent, sealed tuners are a must. A wraparound bridge is simple and functional, but a more traditional tailpiece might offer a slightly better transfer of string vibration.

Neck Profile

This is personal preference, but a comfortable neck is essential for playability. Look for something that fits your hand - whether you prefer a slim C, a chunky D, or something in between. A smooth finish helps too.

Finish & Aesthetics

While not directly affecting tone, the finish impacts the overall feel and perceived value. A thin, nitrocellulose lacquer finish (if you can find it in this price range) will feel more resonant than a thick, poly finish, but it's often a compromise on durability.

Buying guide

So, you want that hollow-body vibe, that acoustic resonance, but you're not looking to remortgage the house. Finding a semi-acoustic that delivers real sonic character without breaking the bank is totally doable - you just need to know what to look for. Forget those marketing buzzwords; we're talking about guitars that'll actually sound good plugged in at a gig or recorded in your home studio, and won't leave you feeling like you overpaid.

At this budget, you're making trade-offs. Expect laminate bodies to be more common than solid wood, and pickups might not be top-tier. Don't chase after fancy features - focus on a solid neck, decent hardware, and pickups that suit your style.

A good setup from a local tech is absolutely essential to get the action comfortable and the intonation right - it's the single biggest improvement you can make.

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 240 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 semi-hollow and hollow body?

Hollow bodies have more air space, giving them a more acoustic-like resonance but are prone to feedback. Semi-hollows have a solid center block, reducing feedback and adding sustain while retaining some of that hollow-body character.

Are these guitars good for recording?

Absolutely, but consider the pickups. A warmer voicing will generally record better than something overly bright. DI recording is a great option too, especially with a good preamp.

Will a cheaper semi-acoustic sound as good as a $3000 one?

No, of course not. You'll notice better wood, more refined construction, and higher-quality components. However, a well-chosen guitar under $2000 can still sound fantastic and be a joy to play.

What about feedback when playing live?

Feedback is a risk with any hollow or semi-hollow. Keep the volume reasonable, be mindful of mic placement, and consider a feedback suppressor if necessary. The solid center block in a semi-hollow helps significantly.

What's the deal with nitrocellulose finishes?

Nitro finishes are thinner and tend to 'breathe' more than poly finishes, potentially offering a more resonant tone. They also age beautifully, developing a patina over time, but they're more delicate and often pricier to apply.