Best Semiacoustic Guitars Under $800 2026
Alright, so you're after that hollow-body vibe, that little bit of acoustic resonance to fatten up your tone, but you're not looking to remortgage the house. Semiacoustic guitars under $800 can be surprisingly good, but you gotta know what to look for. It's a sweet spot - enough quality to gig with, but you're definitely making some compromises somewhere. Let's break down the best options without breaking the bank.
Last updated: June 17, 2026 • Next update: June 24, 2026
⚡ The best semiacoustic guitars in 2026 are Larry Carlton H7T Cherry Sunburst LH (top pick), Larry Carlton H7T Cherry Sunburst for tighter budgets, and DAngelico Premier SS Burnt Red for pros — selected from 15 options across 6 brands, priced $529–$790, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Larry Carlton H7T Cherry Sunburst LH
Blues
Country
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton H7T is a seriously cool left-handed semi-hollow that nails that vintage vibe. Those Filter'Trons are the key – they deliver a really unique, almost vocal quality. It's a great option for players wanting a distinctive sound and a comfortable feel, especially those into jazz, blues, or classic rock.
PROS
- • Flamed maple top adds striking visual appeal and resonance.
- • LC Filter'Trons deliver a warm, articulate, and vintage-voiced tone.
- • Mahogany neck provides excellent sustain and comfortable playing feel.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience with clarity.
CONS
- • Semi-hollow body can be prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • 24.75” scale length might feel cramped for players accustomed to longer scales.
- • Cherry Sunburst finish, while beautiful, can be susceptible to wear and tear.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 584329
$769
#2
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Larry Carlton H7T Cherry Sunburst
Blues
Vintage Style
Rockabilly
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton H7T is a fantastic option for players seeking a semi-hollow tone with vintage character. The Filter'Tron pickups nail that warm, slightly gritty vibe perfect for blues, jazz, and classic rock – it's a really well-considered instrument offering a lot of value.
PROS
- • Flamed maple top adds visual flair and enhances resonance.
- • LC Filter'Tron pickups deliver a warm, articulate vintage tone.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides smooth playability and excellent note definition.
- • Set-in mahogany neck offers sustain and a comfortable, familiar feel.
CONS
- • The tremolo system may require careful setup and occasional maintenance.
- • Semi-hollow body makes it more prone to feedback at high volumes.
- • 24.75in scale length might feel cramped for players used to longer scales.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 584325
$714
#3
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
DAngelico Premier SS Burnt Red
by
DAngelico
Blues
Vintage Style
Rockabilly
Key Feature:
The Premier SS Burnt Red is a seriously cool semi-hollow that hits a sweet spot between vintage vibe and modern playability. It's a great option for players wanting a full, warm tone with a bit of bite – think blues, rock, and even some jazzy stuff. This guitar offers a lot of value for the money and looks fantastic doing it.
PROS
- • Maple laminate construction delivers a balanced, articulate tone with warmth.
- • D'Angelico humbuckers provide a thick, powerful sound suitable for rock and blues.
- • Walnut fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience and a unique visual appeal.
- • Stairstep tuners ensure stable tuning, even with aggressive playing.
CONS
- • Semi-hollow body may introduce feedback at high volumes without careful amp settings.
- • The 'C' neck profile might not suit players preferring a thinner or more vintage feel.
- • Limited pickup options restrict versatility for players needing extreme sonic contrasts.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 606608
$714
#4
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Epiphone ES-339 Vintage Sunburst
by
Epiphone
Country
Rockabilly
Clean Tones
Key Feature:
This Epiphone ES-339 is a fantastic entry point into the semi-hollow world. It nails that vintage vibe with its maple construction and Alnico pickups, offering a surprisingly robust tone for the price. It's a solid choice for blues, rock, and jazz players looking for a quality instrument without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Maple top delivers a focused, articulate tone with good sustain
- • Alnico Classic Pro pickups offer a surprisingly powerful and vintage-voiced output
- • Rounded C neck profile is comfortable for a wide range of playing styles
- • Grover Rotomatics provide reliable tuning stability and a premium feel
CONS
- • The maple construction can feel a bit dense and potentially neck-heavy
- • Semi-hollow body makes it more prone to feedback at higher volumes
- • While versatile, it leans towards classic rock and blues; modern metal isn't its forte
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 501069
$529
#5
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Larry Carlton H7 STR
Jazz
Clean Tones
Blues
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton H7 STR is a fantastic option for players seeking a semi-hollow experience with a vintage vibe. The build quality is surprisingly good for the price, and those AlNiCo 2 pickups deliver a warm, creamy tone perfect for blues, jazz, and classic rock. It's a solid workhorse that offers a lot of value.
PROS
- • Flamed maple top provides striking aesthetics and resonance
- • Mahogany neck offers comfortable feel and sustain
- • AlNiCo 2 humbuckers deliver warm, vintage-voiced tones
- • Ebony fretboard provides slick playability and clear note definition
CONS
- • Semi-hollow construction may introduce feedback at high volumes
- • Limited pickup versatility compared to coil-splitting options
- • The 'C' neck profile might not suit all players' preferences
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 487430
$603
#6
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Ibanez AMH90-BK
by
Ibanez
Vintage Style
Jazz
Country
Key Feature:
The AMH90-BK is a solid choice for players wanting a semi-hollow vibe without the premium price tag. It's surprisingly versatile, handling everything from bluesy cleans to crunchy rock tones well. This guitar is a great option for gigging musicians or those wanting a distinctive look and feel.
PROS
- • Basswood body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced acoustic tone.
- • Ebony fretboard offers a slick, fast playing experience and excellent note definition.
- • Super 58 pickups deliver a hot, articulate sound suitable for rock and blues.
- • Gibraltar Performer Jetty bridge enhances sustain and tuning stability.
CONS
- • Basswood, while resonant, can lack the complexity of mahogany or maple.
- • Nyatoh neck might not offer the premium feel of maple or mahogany.
- • Semi-hollow construction makes it more susceptible to feedback at high volumes.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 510007
$791
#7
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Gretsch Streamliner FSR CB Jr. MintMet
by
Gretsch
Blues
Rockabilly
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Streamliner Junior is a seriously fun guitar—it nails that classic Gretsch vibe at an affordable price. The Broad'Tron pickups are the stars here, delivering a warm, chunky tone perfect for rockabilly, blues, and vintage-flavored rock. It's a great choice for players wanting that iconic Gretsch sound without the high-end price tag.
PROS
- • Broad'Tron pickups deliver a thick, creamy, vintage-flavored tone.
- • Maple laminate construction provides surprising resonance and sustain.
- • Soft 'inCin' neck profile offers a comfortable playing experience for many.
- • Bigsby B50 tremolo adds classic Gretsch vibrato and expression.
CONS
- • Maple laminate body can be somewhat prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • Nato neck, while stable, isn't as premium as mahogany or maple.
- • Limited pickup switching options restrict tonal versatility somewhat.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 585588
$659
#8
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Gretsch G2655 STRML CB JR DC VLAMB
by
Gretsch
Jazz
Rockabilly
Blues
Key Feature:
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.
- • Coil-splitting feature expands tonal versatility for cleaner sounds.
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.
- • The shorter scale length might feel a little cramped for players with larger hands.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 620016
$604
#9
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Epiphone ES-335 Cherry
by
Epiphone
Country
Vintage Style
Rockabilly
Key Feature:
This Epiphone ES-335 Cherry is a fantastic entry point into the semi-hollow world. It nails that classic 335 vibe with a surprisingly punchy tone thanks to the Alnico Pro pickups and a comfortable neck. It's a great choice for gigging musicians or players wanting a versatile instrument without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Maple top provides focused, articulate highs and sustain
- • Mahogany neck offers comfortable, rounded 'C' profile playability
- • Alnico Classic Pro pickups deliver a warm, vintage-inspired tone
- • LockTone hardware enhances tuning stability and resonance
CONS
- • Cherry finish can be prone to nitrocellulose checking with age
- • Maple construction can feel somewhat dense and less resonant than ash
- • Limited pickup options restrict versatility compared to higher-end models
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 501057
$549
#10
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Harley Benton CST-24HB TOL Tobacco Fl Bundle
Vintage Style
Country
Blues
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton bundle is a seriously impressive package for the price. The chambered body gives it a surprisingly semi-acoustic vibe, while the Roswell pickups offer a versatile range of tones. It's ideal for players seeking a vintage-inspired semi-hollow feel with a modern twist, perfect for blues, rock, and even some jazz.
PROS
- • Chambered Meranti body offers surprisingly resonant and airy tones.
- • Roswell LAF pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and warm humbucker voice.
- • Roasted Jatoba fingerboard provides a smooth, stable playing surface with excellent feel.
- • HB-80R amp provides decent clean and driven tones for practice and small gigs.
CONS
- • Wrap-around bridge can limit more advanced setup adjustments and intonation fine-tuning.
- • Flamed maple top is cosmetic; doesn't significantly impact acoustic projection.
- • Meranti body, while resonant, lacks the sustain of mahogany.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 371890
$549
#11
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Gretsch G2622 STRML CB DC MD SPH
by
Gretsch
Rockabilly
Jazz
Blues
Key Feature:
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.
- • The coil-split functionality greatly expands tonal options, from fat humbucker to bright single-coil.
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.
- • Nickel hardware, while aesthetically pleasing, can be prone to tarnishing over time.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 620004
$604
#12
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
DAngelico Premier SS Surf Green
by
DAngelico
Rockabilly
Country
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
The Premier SS Surf Green is a seriously cool instrument – it nails that vintage vibe with modern playability. The semi-hollow construction gives it a lovely warmth and airiness, and those D'Angelico humbuckers really cut through. It's a great option for players seeking a stylish, versatile semi-acoustic without the premium price tag – perfect for blues, rock, and even some jazz.
PROS
- • Laminated maple construction delivers a warm, resonant tone with surprising sustain.
- • D'Angelico humbuckers provide a thick, articulate sound, suitable for a variety of genres.
- • The Walnut fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience and a distinct visual appeal.
- • Stairstep machine heads provide precise tuning stability and a classic aesthetic.
CONS
- • The shorter 635mm scale length might feel cramped for players accustomed to longer scales.
- • The Surf Green finish, while striking, may not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
- • Semi-hollow body construction makes it more prone to feedback at high volumes.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 606523
$714
#13
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Epiphone Casino Natural w/ Epi Pro P90
by
Epiphone
Rockabilly
Jazz
Country
Key Feature:
This Epiphone Casino with the Pro P90s is a fantastic value. It nails that hollow-body vibe – think early Beatles, blues, and garage rock – without the premium price tag. The neck is easy to play, and the P90s have a surprisingly powerful, raw tone that’s a real joy to dial in.
PROS
- • Maple laminate body offers a balanced, resonant tone.
- • Epi Pro P90s deliver thick, creamy vintage-inspired grit.
- • Mahogany neck provides comfortable playability and warm sustain.
- • Cream binding and sloped headstock add a touch of classic elegance.
CONS
- • Laminated construction lacks the complexity of solid-body instruments.
- • The shorter scale length limits low-end extension for basslines.
- • P90 pickups can be noisy at higher gain settings.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 568063
$703
#14
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Ibanez AS73G-PBM
by
Ibanez
Blues
Country
Rockabilly
Key Feature:
The AS73G-PBM is a solid entry into the semi-hollowbody world. It’s a surprisingly versatile instrument, offering a warm, woody tone with a decent amount of bite from those Classic Elite pickups. This is a fantastic choice for gigging musicians or students looking for a stage-ready, great-sounding guitar without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Basswood body provides a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- • Classic Elite humbuckers deliver a thick, articulate sound ideal for blues and rock.
- • Nyatoh neck offers a comfortable, stable feel with a predictable break-in period.
- • Gibraltar Performer bridge enhances sustain and provides reliable tuning stability.
CONS
- • Basswood top, while aesthetically pleasing, can lack the premium wood resonance of mahogany.
- • Plastic nut can contribute to tuning instability compared to bone or graphite alternatives.
- • The shorter scale length limits low-end extension and high-register clarity.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 533450
$560
#15
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Epiphone ES-339 Cherry
by
Epiphone
Country
Jazz
Vintage Style
Key Feature:
The Epiphone ES-339 Cherry is a fantastic entry point into the semi-hollow world. It nails that classic ES-335 vibe without the premium price tag, offering a surprisingly versatile range from bluesy warmth to crunchy rock tones. This is a sweet deal for gigging musicians or players wanting a distinctive look and feel.
PROS
- • Maple top provides a bright, articulate tone with pleasing sustain.
- • Alnico Classic Pro pickups deliver a warm, punchy vintage-inspired sound.
- • Rounded C neck profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
- • Grover Rotomatics provide reliable tuning stability and a premium feel.
CONS
- • Maple construction can be somewhat bright; may need EQ to tame high frequencies.
- • Semi-hollow body makes it more prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • While well-built, hardware isn't quite as refined as higher-end models.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 501070
$532
How to Choose the Best Semiacoustic Guitars
1
Tonewoods
Expect mahogany, nato, or basswood for the body. These aren't figured maple masterpieces - they're functional. Mahogany will give you a warmer, more mid-focused tone, basswood is often brighter and more neutral, and nato is somewhere in between. Don't expect miracles; the acoustic properties are still there, but the wood selection will influence the overall character.
2
Pickups
This is critical. Many guitars in this range come with generic humbuckers that can be muddy or shrill. Look for pickups with a clear, defined low-end and a balanced midrange - you want that low-end thump without it swallowing your signal in a band mix, and that sweet spot of articulation to avoid a boxy sound. Humbuckers are common, but P90s can deliver a fantastic, raw tone, too.
3
Hardware
The tuners, bridge, and pots matter. Cheap hardware will mean tuning instability and a generally flimsy feel. Look for sealed tuners (they hold tune better) and a bridge that allows for comfortable action adjustment. Chrome hardware looks nice, but it's purely aesthetic - don't pay extra for it.
4
Neck Profile
This is a personal preference, but crucial for playability. A thin 'D' or 'C' profile is common for faster playing, while a thicker 'U' shape offers more sustain and a vintage feel. Try before you buy if possible, or be prepared to have a setup done to adjust the action and neck relief.
5
Acoustic Resonance
The hollow body is the whole point, right? Listen for a natural sustain and a pleasing resonance when you tap the body. A cheap, poorly braced body will sound dead and lifeless - that's a dealbreaker. The bracing pattern affects the tone significantly; F-holes are common, but the size and placement matter.
Buying Guide
At this price point, you're trading off something. Don't expect premium figured tops or flawless finishes. The biggest compromise will likely be in the pickups and hardware - upgrade those later if needed. A proper setup from a qualified tech is absolutely essential; even a great guitar will feel and sound awful with incorrect action or intonation. Prioritize playability and tone over aesthetics - a guitar that feels good in your hands is more valuable than a pretty one.
Our Methodology
We're not just looking at spec sheets here. These guitars got time in our hands, plugged into a variety of amps - from Fender Deluxe Reverbs to Marshall JCM800s - and ran through recording interfaces. We A/B'd them against more expensive axes and put them through the wringer: band rehearsals, bedroom tracking, and even a few smoky bar gigs to see how they hold up to the real world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. The hollow body adds warmth and character to recordings. Just be mindful of feedback and unwanted resonance - mic placement and room acoustics are key. A good DI signal is also crucial.
You can, but be prepared for feedback and a potentially muddy tone. Lowering the gain and using a noise gate are essential. They shine more with cleaner or slightly overdriven tones where you can appreciate the acoustic resonance.
A hollow body is completely hollow, offering maximum acoustic resonance. A semi-acoustic has a solid center block, reducing feedback and adding sustain, but still retaining some of the acoustic properties.
Generally, yes. Most semi-acoustics use standard humbucker or P90 routings, making pickup swaps relatively straightforward. Just be aware of wiring differences when replacing them.
They're versatile! Blues, jazz, rockabilly, indie - anything where you want a warmer, more organic tone. They can even work in heavier genres with careful amp and effects choices.
