Best Semiacoustic Guitars Under $2,000 2026
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.
Last updated: July 8, 2026 • Next update: July 15, 2026
⚡ The best semiacoustic guitars in 2026 are DAngelico Excel SS Trans Cherry (top pick), DAngelico Excel Mini DC Viola for tighter budgets, and Epiphone Dave Grohl DG-335 Pelham Blue for pros — selected from 15 options across 8 brands, priced $1,032–$1,978, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
DAngelico Excel SS Trans Cherry
by
DAngelico
Rockabilly
Blues
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
The D’Angelico Excel SS Trans Cherry is a seriously classy semi-hollow that’s surprisingly versatile. The Duncan 59s give you a warm, creamy tone that's fantastic for jazz, blues, and even some rock. It’s a great choice for players wanting a refined look and feel without sacrificing playability or that signature semi-hollow resonance.
PROS
- • Seymour Duncan 59s deliver warm, articulate vintage-inspired tones
- • Three-piece maple/walnut/maple neck offers exceptional stability and feel
- • Ebony fretboard provides a smooth, fast playing experience and excellent note clarity
- • Grover Rotomatic tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability, even with aggressive playing
CONS
- • Semi-hollow construction can introduce feedback at higher volumes, requires careful amp placement
- • Trans Cherry finish, while beautiful, can be prone to fingerprints and smudging
- • Slim C neck profile may not suit players preferring a thicker, more vintage feel
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 551921
$1,704
#2
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
DAngelico Excel Mini DC Viola
by
DAngelico
Country
Clean Tones
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
The D’Angelico Excel Mini DC Viola is a seriously cool little axe. It’s surprisingly versatile, offering a vintage-inspired tone with modern playability, making it ideal for gigging musicians or those seeking a comfortable, stage-friendly guitar. The build quality is excellent, and the included Seymour Duncan pickups deliver a punchy, articulate sound.
PROS
- • Laminated flamed maple top delivers a rich, warm tone with surprising projection
- • Seymour Duncan 59s offer classic humbucker bite and sustain
- • Slim C neck profile provides comfortable, fast playability for various styles
- • Grover Rotomatics ensure rock-solid tuning stability, a welcome touch at this level
CONS
- • The shorter scale length limits low-end extension compared to full-size guitars
- • Laminated construction, while practical, lacks the complexity of solid wood
- • Viola finish can be a bit polarizing – not universally appealing
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 515160
$1,648
#3
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Epiphone Dave Grohl DG-335 Pelham Blue
by
Epiphone
Blues
Clean Tones
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Epiphone Dave Grohl DG-335 is a seriously cool semi-hollow that nails that vintage 335 vibe. The Burstbucker pickups are a real highlight – thick and punchy, perfect for rock, blues, and even some heavier styles. It's a great option for players wanting a classic look and feel without the premium-priced tag of a Gibson.
PROS
- • Burstbucker pickups deliver a thick, powerful, vintage-voiced tone.
- • Mahogany neck provides a warm, resonant feel and excellent sustain.
- • Pelham Blue finish is striking and offers a unique aesthetic appeal.
- • CTS pots and Mallory caps enhance the overall tone and responsiveness.
CONS
- • Semi-hollow body makes it prone to feedback at higher volumes, requires care.
- • Relatively heavy for extended playing sessions, a consideration for some players.
- • 24.75” scale might feel cramped for players accustomed to longer scales.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 580598
$1,099
#4
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
DAngelico Deluxe 59 Satin Honey
by
DAngelico
Clean Tones
Blues
Country
Key Feature:
This Deluxe 59 is a seriously cool semi-hollow. The mahogany body gives it a really sweet, woody tone, and those Great Dane P-90s are surprisingly versatile—they can handle blues, rock, and even some jazz. It's a great option for players wanting that vintage vibe and a comfortable neck without the extreme price tag of some higher-end hollow bodies.
PROS
- • Mahogany laminate body delivers warm, resonant tones with excellent sustain.
- • Seymour Duncan Great Dane P-90s offer a thick, articulate, and surprisingly versatile sound.
- • Maple/walnut/maple neck provides a comfortable, fast feel and exceptional stability.
- • Ebony fretboard adds snap and clarity to the upper registers, improving articulation.
CONS
- • The satin finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can show fingerprints easily.
- • The hollow body construction makes it somewhat heavier than a solid-body guitar.
- • The 3-way switch limits tonal flexibility compared to more complex switching systems.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 545083
$1,869
#5
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Reverend Reeves Gabrels Spacehawk MR
by
Reverend
Clean Tones
Jazz
Rockabilly
Key Feature:
The Spacehawk MR is a truly unique instrument, born from Reeves Gabrels’ inventive mind. It's got a distinctive voice thanks to those custom pickups and the short scale lends a playful, almost sitar-like quality. This guitar is perfect for adventurous players seeking a semi-hollow with a different character – think experimental rock, alternative, or even jazz fusion.
PROS
- • Korina body delivers exceptional resonance and sustain.
- • Gabrels humbuckers offer unique, harmonically rich tones.
- • Bigsby tremolo adds expressive vibrato capabilities.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides smooth playability and note clarity.
CONS
- • Korina body contributes to a noticeable weight; can be tiring for some.
- • Short scale length might feel cramped for players used to longer scales.
- • Semi-hollow design limits feedback resistance at high volumes.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 614746
$1,539
#6
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Epiphone 1962 ES-335 Reissue Sixties Ch
by
Epiphone
Clean Tones
Rockabilly
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Epiphone 335 Reissue is a fantastic entry point to the semi-hollow sound. It nails the vintage aesthetics and feel remarkably well, offering a sweet spot between affordability and quality. Ideal for players wanting that classic ES-335 vibe for blues, rock, and jazz without the premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • 5-ply maple/poplar construction delivers a warm, resonant tone.
- • Gibson Custombucker pickups offer a surprisingly authentic vintage vibe.
- • Slim taper neck profile provides excellent playability and comfort.
- • Deluxe machine heads ensure reliable tuning stability and ease of use.
CONS
- • The semi-hollow body makes it prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • Sixties Cherry finish can be a bit thick and less nuanced than some.
- • Weight is noticeable, especially during extended playing sessions.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 614931
$1,374
#7
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
DAngelico Deluxe 59 Satin Trans Wine
by
DAngelico
Blues
Country
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
This Deluxe 59 is a seriously cool instrument – the mahogany body and Great Dane P-90s give it a real vintage vibe with plenty of growl. It's ideal for blues, rock, and jazz players who want a semi-hollow with a distinctive look and feel; just be mindful of potential feedback at high gain.
PROS
- • Mahogany laminate body provides warm, resonant, and balanced tone.
- • Seymour Duncan Great Dane P-90s deliver thick, articulate, vintage-inspired grit.
- • Walnut core in the neck adds stability and a pleasant feel under the fingers.
- • 5-Ply binding and Stairstep Tailpiece offer a premium aesthetic and solid construction.
CONS
- • The satin finish, while attractive, can feel a bit plasticky to some players.
- • Hollow body design makes it somewhat feedback-prone at higher volumes, requiring careful amp placement.
- • The narrow C-neck profile might not suit players who prefer a thicker, chunkier feel.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 545081
$1,979
#8
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
DAngelico Excel SS Viola
by
DAngelico
Clean Tones
Vintage Style
Country
Key Feature:
The D’Angelico Excel SS Viola is a fantastic semi-hollow offering a blend of vintage aesthetics and modern playability. The Duncan 59s give it a real growl that’s perfect for blues, rock, and jazz players who want a premium-priced instrument with a comfortable neck and classic vibe.
PROS
- • Seymour Duncan 59s deliver a warm, articulate, and powerful vintage tone.
- • The 3-strip maple/walnut/maple neck offers exceptional feel and stability.
- • Grover Rotomatics ensure rock-solid tuning stability even with aggressive playing.
- • The Stairstep tailpiece provides a distinctive aesthetic and enhances sustain.
CONS
- • The semi-hollow body might pick up more unwanted resonance in certain recording environments.
- • Slim C neck profile may not appeal to players preferring a thicker, vintage feel.
- • The Viola finish, while beautiful, can be prone to fingerprints and smudges.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 515066
$1,704
#9
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Evh SA126 Matte Army Drab
by
Evh
Rockabilly
Clean Tones
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
This SA126 is a fantastic semi-hollow offering a unique blend of warmth and clarity. The neck profile is a real winner, and those EVH pickups give you plenty of punch for rock, blues, and even some lighter jazz. It's a premium-priced instrument that's perfect for players wanting a versatile, comfortable semi-hollow with a distinctive look.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant tone with sustain
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and speed
- • Modified D profile neck is supremely comfortable and playable
- • EVH SA-126 humbuckers provide high-output, versatile tones
CONS
- • Matte finish can be prone to fingerprints and smudging
- • Semi-hollow design limits extreme high-gain applications
- • Made in Mexico – not quite the same as an Ernie Ball USA model
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 584178
$1,418
#10
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Guild M-75 Aristocrat AB
by
Guild
Clean Tones
Rockabilly
Jazz
Key Feature:
This M-75 Aristocrat AB is a beautifully crafted semi-hollow that nails that vintage jazz and blues vibe. The construction and hardware are solid, and it’s surprisingly affordable for the quality you get. It's a sweet option for players wanting a classy, resonant instrument without the full hollowbody feedback issues.
PROS
- • Laminated spruce top delivers focused, articulate tone with warmth
- • Mahogany body provides excellent resonance and sustain
- • Rosewood fingerboard offers a comfortable playing feel and rich tonal complexity
- • Grover Sta-Tite tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability.
CONS
- • The thinner body (50.8 mm) may reduce feedback resistance at higher volumes
- • Single coil pickups limit versatility for modern, high-gain genres
- • Rosewood fingerboard might feel dry to some players; consider a fret dressing.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 305063
$1,099
#11
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
DAngelico Deluxe Mini DC Satin Trans Win
by
DAngelico
Blues
Jazz
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
This D’Angelico Mini DC is a seriously cool little axe. The combination of the mahogany body, P-90 pickups, and shorter scale creates a unique, punchy tone perfect for blues, jazz, and rock. It's a premium-priced instrument that delivers a lot of character in a manageable package, ideal for smaller players or those seeking a distinctive, less conventional semi-hollow.
PROS
- • Mahogany laminate provides warm, resonant tone with surprising projection.
- • Seymour Duncan STK P-90s deliver thick, creamy vintage-inspired grit.
- • Walnut neck adds stability and a pleasing feel under the hand.
- • Grover Rotomatic tuners ensure reliable tuning stability, even with aggressive playing.
CONS
- • The shorter scale length might feel cramped for players with larger hands.
- • Satin finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can show fingerprints easily.
- • Semi-hollow construction limits extreme high-gain applications.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 545088
$1,869
#12
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
PRS SE Custom 24 Semi-Hollow OB
by
PRS
Vintage Style
Blues
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
This SE Custom 24 Semi-Hollow OB is a fantastic all-rounder. The combination of mahogany warmth, flamed maple aesthetics, and those versatile 85/15 pickups makes it ideal for gigging musicians wanting a semi-hollow sound without the premium price tag. It’s a great platform for rock, blues, and even some lighter jazz styles.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides warmth and sustain, a real sweet spot.
- • 85/15 pickups offer versatile tones, from clean to crunchy.
- • Wide Thin neck profile is comfortable for various hand sizes.
- • Piezo system adds acoustic dimension, expanding sonic possibilities.
CONS
- • Semi-hollow construction can be prone to feedback at high volumes.
- • Rosewood fretboard may require occasional oiling for optimal playability.
- • While versatile, it’s not a true acoustic – limited unplugged performance.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 601419
$1,737
#13
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Ibanez JSM20-BKL
by
Ibanez
Vintage Style
Blues
Jazz
Key Feature:
This JSM20-BKL is a fantastic semi-acoustic option for players seeking Scofield's signature tone. The maple body and ebony board combo delivers a bright, snappy response, while the Super 58 pickups handle everything from clean jazz to blistering rock. It’s a premium-priced instrument, but offers excellent value for the quality and versatility it provides.
PROS
- • Maple body delivers focused, articulate tone with excellent sustain
- • Ebony fretboard provides a slick, fast playing experience with clarity
- • Super 58 pickups offer a versatile range, from clean to overdriven grit
- • Quik Change III tailpiece allows for swift and easy string changes
CONS
- • Maple body can feel somewhat dense, potentially impacting long playing comfort
- • Nyatoh in the neck can sometimes exhibit a slight graininess under the finish
- • Scale length might feel a bit short for players used to longer scales
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 429045
$1,222
#14
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Fender Tom Delonge Starcaster SFG RF
by
Fender
Rockabilly
Blues
Jazz
Key Feature:
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.
- • Modern 'inCin' neck profile is comfortable for a wide range of playing styles.
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.
- • Semi-hollow design makes it more prone to feedback at higher volumes.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 584384
$1,110
#15
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
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.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 533444
$1,033
How to Choose the Best Semiacoustic Guitars
1
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.
2
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.
3
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.
4
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.
5
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
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.
Our Methodology
We didn't just look at spec sheets here. Each of these guitars spent time in our hands, getting played through a variety of amps - from Fender cleans to cranked Marshall stacks - and compared directly to instruments costing significantly more. We've also put them through the wringer: band rehearsals, tracking sessions, and even a few low-key gigs to see how they hold up to the realities of the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
