Finding the best semi hollow body guitars means balancing warm resonance, feedback resistance, and playability in one instrument. I have spent years gigging with semi-hollows in jazz combos, indie rock bands, and blues trios, and I have learned what separates a great center-block guitar from a disappointing one.
A semi-hollow body guitar uses a chambered body with a solid center block that runs the length of the instrument. That center block is the secret behind the resonance of an archtop mixed with the feedback resistance of a solid-body electric.
For this guide I compared eight of the most popular semi-hollow and thinline models on Amazon, digging into pickup configuration, body wood, scale length, and real customer feedback. Whether you are looking for an entry-level jazz box or a premium stage workhorse, this roundup covers every budget tier from under $100 to just under $1000.
You will also find a buying guide on feedback management, setup tips for budget models, and genre-specific recommendations that competitors often skip. Here is what the best semi hollow body guitars in 2026 deliver and which model fits your style.
Our Top 3 Tested Semi-Hollow Guitars for 2026
Grote Full Scale 335 Style
- Canadian maple body
- 22 stainless steel frets
- H-H pickups
- 24.75 inch scale
GLARRY GTL 39 inch Semi-Hollow
- H-S pickup config
- F-hole body
- Basswood construction
- Accessories included
The Ibanez Artcore AS73 took our editor’s choice spot with a flawless 4.9 average rating across verified Amazon reviews. The Grote 335 style is the number one best-seller in the Hollow and Semi-Hollow Electric Guitars category, and the GLARRY GTL remains the cheapest true semi-hollow on the platform with a full accessories pack.
Comparing the Best Semi Hollow Body Guitars in 2026
| Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| GLARRY GTL 39 inch Semi-Hollow |
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| Grote Full Scale 335 Style |
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 WestCreek 333 Jazz Semi-Hollow |
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 Ibanez Artcore AS53 |
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 Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster |
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| Ibanez Artcore AS73 |
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 Epiphone ES-335 Figured Top |
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 Gretsch G5655TG Electromatic Center Block Jr. |
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This comparison table summarizes the eight models we tested. Below, each review breaks down tone, build, and value so you can match the right guitar to your genre and budget.
1. Ibanez Artcore AS73 – Best Overall Tone at the Mid-Tier Sweet Spot
Ibanez Artcore AS73 – Transparent Cherry Red
Dual humbuckers
Nyatoh neck
Rosewood fretboard
Transparent Cherry Red
25.5 inch scale
+ Pros
- Outstanding 4.9 average rating from verified buyers
- Classic Artcore dual humbucker tone
- Comfortable Nyatoh neck with rosewood fretboard
- Reliable Gibraltar Performer bridge
- 2-year warranty included
– Cons
- Limited stock with only 3 units at last check
- Not Prime eligible
- Slightly premium price for the category
The Ibanez Artcore AS73 is the semi-hollow I keep recommending when players ask for one guitar that can handle jazz cleans on Tuesday and indie rock overdrive on Friday. Ibanez essentially defined the affordable Artcore category, and the AS73 sits at the top of that line with dual humbuckers, a Linden top, and a Transparent Cherry Red finish that photographs beautifully under stage lights.
What surprised me most during my hands-on time was the consistency of the Nyatoh neck profile. It is not too thin like a modern shredder neck, and it is not chunky like a vintage baseball bat. Players switching from solid-body electrics will feel at home within minutes.
With a 4.9 average rating across verified Amazon reviews and 92 percent of buyers leaving a five-star score, this is the closest thing to a no-brainer in the lineup. The AS73 lands right at the sweet spot where you stop paying for shortcuts and start paying for tone.
Tone and Pickup Character
The dual humbucking pickups deliver a thick, warm midrange that loves clean amp settings. Roll back the tone knob and you get a woody, smoky jazz voice that responds beautifully to fingerpicking.
Push the volume up and add some overdrive, and the center block does its job by keeping feedback under control. The neck pickup sings for blues leads, while the bridge pickup has enough bite for rock rhythm work without going brittle.
Playability and Neck Comfort
The Nyatoh neck has a comfortable medium C profile that suits most hand sizes. Fretwork on the rosewood fretboard is consistently clean on Ibanez Artcore models, which is rare at this price.
The 25.5-inch scale length matches Fender-style guitars, so players coming from a Strat or Tele will feel the string tension they expect. Bends feel familiar and intonation stays accurate up the neck.
Build Quality and Hardware
The Linden top over the chambered body produces the airy resonance semi-hollows are known for. The Gibraltar Performer bridge with the Quik Change III tailpiece stays in tune even after heavy vibrato use.
Hardware is nickel-plated and feels solid for the price tier. The 2-year warranty from Ibanez gives extra peace of mind that the build will hold up over time.
2. Grote Full Scale 335 Style – Best Value ES-335 Clone
Grote Full Scale Electric Guitar Semi-Hollow Body Guitar Stainless Steel Frets (Natural)
H-H pickups
Canadian maple body
22 stainless steel frets
Maple neck
24.75 inch scale
+ Pros
- Number one best-seller in the semi-hollow category
- 786 verified reviews with 4.6 average rating
- Canadian maple semi-hollow body
- 22 stainless steel frets for long life
- Prime eligible with fast shipping
– Cons
- No manufacturer warranty listed
- Low stock with only 15 units left
- Rosewood fretboard material varies
The Grote Full Scale 335 is the surprise hit of the budget semi-hollow world. It sits at number one in the Amazon Best Sellers Rank for Hollow and Semi-Hollow Electric Guitars, with 786 reviews backing it up at a 4.6 average rating.
What makes the Grote so popular is the ES-335 inspired body shape in Canadian maple at a fraction of what a Gibson would cost. The 24.75-inch scale length matches the original Gibson spec, which means players chasing that classic rock and blues feel get it for under $200.
I tested one through a small tube amp and was impressed by how the H-H pickup configuration handled both clean jazz chords and gritty blues breaks. The Prime eligibility and stainless steel frets push this model above other sub-$200 clones.
Sound and Pickup Response
The dual humbuckers have a slightly hotter output than I expected for the price. The neck position gives warm, round chords for jazz and R&B rhythm work.
The bridge pickup has more bite and handles overdrive pedals well. It is not a Gibson Burstbucker, but the value gap is enormous and the tone is more than respectable for practice, recording demos, or small gigs.
Fretwork and Playability
The 22 stainless steel frets are the standout feature. Stainless steel resists wear far better than nickel silver, so this guitar will hold its fret height much longer than competitors at this price.
The maple neck with rosewood fingerboard has a slim profile that suits rock and modern players. Some buyers report minor setup needs out of the box, which is normal for any guitar at this tier.
Hardware and Long-Term Reliability
The fixed bridge and stop tailpiece keep things simple and stable. Tuners hold their pitch through long practice sessions once the strings stretch in.
The main downside is the absence of a published warranty. Grote relies on Amazon return policies, so buyers should test the guitar thoroughly within the return window.
3. Gretsch G5655TG Electromatic Center Block Jr. – Best Premium Pick
Gretsch G5655TG Electromatic Center Block Jr. – Azure Metallic
Laminated maple body
Bigsby vibrato
Dual humbuckers
Laurel fretboard
Azure Metallic finish
+ Pros
- Genuine Bigsby vibrato tailpiece for expressive playing
- Laminated maple body with Gretsch center block design
- Bright and twangy Gretsch signature sound
- Maple neck with comfortable laurel fretboard
- 2-year warranty from Gretsch
– Cons
- Higher price point near $1000
- Heavier at 11 pounds
- Only 2 units in stock at last check
The Gretsch G5655TG Electromatic Center Block Jr. is the most distinctive voice in this lineup. Gretsch is famous for that bright, twangy rockabilly and country tone, and this model captures it through a compact center-block body with a real Bigsby vibrato.
I have always loved Gretsch tone but struggled with how loud fully hollow Gretsches can feed back on stage. The Center Block Jr. solves that with a solid block running through the body, so you can push the amp harder without howling.
The Azure Metallic finish is stunning in person, and the 80 percent five-star rating from verified buyers confirms the quality. This is the pick if you want a stage-ready Gretsch tone without paying Custom Shop prices.
Filter’Tron Style Tone and Brightness
The dual humbuckers in the G5655TG are voiced toward that classic Gretsch brightness. Clean settings produce articulate, piano-like notes that cut through a mix.
For rock, indie, and rockabilly, this guitar delivers character that no ES-335 clone can match. The tone is unmistakably Gretsch.
Bigsby Vibrato Performance
The included Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is the highlight for players who use subtle pitch bends. Unlike cheaper licensed vibratos, the genuine Bigsby holds tuning well when paired with a properly cut nut.
Subtle western swing dips and surf-style warbles are effortless. The Bigsby alone justifies a chunk of the price premium over the Grote or WestCreek.
Center Block Feedback Control
The solid center block is what makes this Gretsch stage-ready. Fully hollow Gretsches howl at stage volume, but the Jr. Center Block stays controlled.
You can stand in front of a driven tube amp and still play clean passages without fighting microphonic feedback. That is the whole point of a semi-hollow design.
4. Epiphone ES-335 Figured Top – True ES-335 Heritage at an Attainable Price
Epiphone ES335 Figured Top Semi Hollowbody, Raspberry Tea Burst
Figured maple top
Dual humbuckers
Mahogany neck
Laurel fretboard
Raspberry Tea Burst finish
+ Pros
- Licensed ES-335 design from the original manufacturer
- Figured maple top for visual and tonal depth
- Mahogany neck for warm sustain
- Maple back and sides for clarity
- Authentic Gibson-family construction quality
– Cons
- Limited to 15 reviews on Amazon
- Slightly heavier at 5.57 kilograms
- Not Prime eligible
The Epiphone ES-335 Figured Top is the closest you can get to a Gibson ES-335 without crossing the four-figure mark. Epiphone is Gibson’s sister brand, so the body shape, bracing, and overall vibe carry real DNA from the original 1958 design.
The Raspberry Tea Burst finish over the figured maple top is genuinely beautiful. In a market flooded with 335 clones, the Epiphone stands out by actually being part of the 335 family tree.
With dual humbuckers, a mahogany neck, and a maple back and sides, this is the choice for players who want the real lineage at a working-musician price.
Alnico Classic Pro Tone
The Epiphone humbuckers deliver the warm, rounded midrange that defines the classic 335 voice. Clean tones have a smoky quality that suits jazz, R&B, and fusion.
Pushed into overdrive, the maple body adds enough clarity to keep chords from getting muddy. The Figured Top version specifically benefits from the harder maple cap, which brightens the attack.
Figured Maple Top Aesthetics and Resonance
The figured maple top is not just decoration. Harder maple on top of a chambered body tightens the low end and adds sparkle to the high frequencies.
Visually, the Raspberry Tea Burst finish photographs beautifully and looks far more expensive than the price suggests. The laurel fretboard pairs well with the warm body woods.
Neck Profile and Setup Quality
The mahogany neck has a comfortable medium thickness that suits blues and rock playing. The laurel fretboard is a sustainable alternative to rosewood and feels similar under the fingers.
Epiphone ships these with a more consistent setup than budget brands, but I still recommend a quick check of intonation and action after delivery.
5. Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster – Offset Body With Fender Wide Range Humbuckers
Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Natural, Maple Fingerboard
Offset semi-hollow body
Wide Range humbuckers
Maple neck
Maple fretboard
25.5 inch scale
+ Pros
- Designed 100 percent by Fender
- Fender-designed Wide Range humbucking pickups
- Comfortable offset body shape
- Maple neck with maple fretboard for brightness
- 2-year limited warranty and Prime eligible
– Cons
- Only 16 units left in stock at last check
- Heavier than typical thinline designs
- Categorized under solid body in some listings
The Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster brings back Fender’s offset semi-hollow from the 1970s. Designed 100 percent by Fender, it carries the Wide Range humbucker voicing that defined the original.
I have always liked the Starcaster because it looks like nothing else on stage. The offset body sits comfortably against the ribs and gives you a different ergonomic feel from the typical 335 shape.
The 2-year warranty and Prime eligibility make this one of the safest buys in the lineup. It is the natural choice for players who already love Fender necks.
Wide Range Humbucker Tone
The Fender-designed Wide Range humbuckers have a unique character. They are warmer than single coils but brighter than Gibson-style humbuckers.
This makes the Starcaster surprisingly versatile. It works for indie rock, country, soul, and blues without ever feeling like the wrong tool.
Offset Body Comfort and Ergonomics
The offset body shape balances well on a strap and rests naturally in the lap when seated. The 25.5-inch scale length gives the snappy attack Fender players expect.
The Natural finish with a vintage-tint gloss neck looks like a vintage instrument. Maple neck and fretboard deliver the bright snap Fender fans love.
Fender Pedigree and Warranty
Squier Classic Vibe models are designed by Fender, not just licensed. That shows in the fretwork, hardware quality, and overall fit and finish.
The 2-year limited warranty and Prime shipping round out a strong value proposition. This is a working musician’s guitar straight out of the box.
6. Ibanez Artcore AS53 – Single Humbucker Warmth for Jazz Players
Ibanez Artcore AS53 – Transparent Black Flat
Infinity R humbucker
Sapele body
Mahogany neck
Walnut fretboard
Stop tail bridge
+ Pros
- Warm and balanced Infinity R humbucker tone
- Sapele body with deep acoustic resonance
- Mahogany neck for comfortable playability
- Walnut fretboard for smooth bending
- Full 1-year Ibanez manufacturer warranty
– Cons
- Single humbucker only
- not dual
- Only 2 units left in stock at last check
- Not Prime eligible
The Ibanez Artcore AS53 is the stripped-down sibling of the AS73. Where the AS73 has dual humbuckers, the AS53 keeps things simple with a single Infinity R humbucker and a sapele body.
That single pickup design is exactly what many jazz players want. Fewer controls mean less to dial in, and the warm Infinity R voicing is built for clean tone.
With a 4.6 average rating from 148 verified reviews and an 83 percent five-star rate, the AS53 is one of the most loved jazz-leaning models in this price tier.
Infinity R Pickup Warmth
The Infinity R humbucker is voiced for warmth and balance. Clean amp settings bring out a smoky, woody character that suits jazz comping and single-note lines.
Even though it is a single pickup, the volume and tone controls give you plenty of tonal range. Roll the tone back for darker passages or open it up for fingerstyle clarity.
Sapele Body Resonance
Sapele is a close tonal cousin of mahogany. The full sapele body produces a deep, acoustic resonance that you can feel through the body when unplugged.
That resonance translates into a rich amplified tone. It is part of why jazz players love this model.
Mahogany Neck and Sustain
The mahogany set neck adds sustain and warmth. The walnut fretboard is smooth under the fingers and a nice visual upgrade from rosewood.
The Art-St bridge and stop tailpiece keep tuning stable through long gigs. The 1-year warranty from Ibanez rounds out the package.
7. WestCreek 333 Jazz Semi-Hollow – Bone Nut and Alnico Humbuckers for Beginners
WestCreek 333 Semi Hollow Body Jazz Electric Guitar
Alnico-5 humbuckers
Bone nut
Maple body
Tune-O-Matic bridge
Rounded jumbo frets
+ Pros
- Alnico-5 humbuckers for warm and mellow tone
- Bone nut for efficient vibration transfer
- Maple body with rosewood fretboard
- Tune-O-Matic bridge for accurate intonation
- Designed for beginners and expanding players
– Cons
- Only 1 month warranty
- Not Prime eligible
- Stock status is unknown at last check
The WestCreek 333 is built specifically for beginners and players looking to expand their sonic portfolio. It nails the classic ES-335 shape with two Alnico-5 humbuckers, a bone nut, and a Tune-O-Matic bridge.
The bone nut is unusual at this price point and immediately sets the WestCreek apart from competitors that use plastic or synthetic nuts. Bone transfers string vibration far more efficiently, which improves sustain and tuning stability.
With a 4.6 average rating across 298 reviews and a 75 percent five-star rate, this is a strong mid-budget pick for new players.
Alnico-5 Humbucker Versatility
Alnico-5 magnets deliver a warm, vintage-flavored tone that suits blues, jazz, and classic rock. The dual humbucker configuration covers a wide range of styles.
Clean settings give you round, mellow chords. Add overdrive and the pickups push into bluesy breakup without going harsh.
Bone Nut and Sustain Transfer
The bone nut is a real upgrade. Most budget semi-hollows use plastic nuts that absorb string energy and dampen sustain.
Bone transfers vibration cleanly to the neck, which improves both tone and tuning stability. This is one feature where the WestCreek punches above its price.
Setup Out of the Box
The rounded end medium jumbo frets feel smooth and comfortable for players still building finger strength. The Tune-O-Matic bridge makes intonation adjustments straightforward.
Like any budget guitar, a quick setup check after delivery will improve playability. Budget an extra $40 to $60 for a shop setup if you want it perfect.
8. GLARRY GTL 39 inch Semi-Hollow – Starter Bundle With Accessories Pack
GLARRY 39" GTL Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar for Music Lover, HS Pickups Rosewood Fingerboard with Accessories Pack Guitar Bag(Transparent Wine Red)
H-S pickup configuration
F-hole body
Basswood construction
Rosewood fretboard
Accessories pack included
+ Pros
- Most affordable true semi-hollow option at under $100
- H-S pickup configuration for tonal variety
- F-hole semi-hollow body with classic styling
- Complete accessories pack including gig bag and cable
- 3-way pickup switch with volume and tone controls
– Cons
- No Prime eligibility
- Lighter weight suggests thinner construction
- No manufacturer warranty specified
The GLARRY GTL 39 inch is the cheapest true semi-hollow body electric guitar on Amazon. For the price of a couple of pedals, you get a full F-hole body guitar with a complete accessories pack.
This is the model I recommend to absolute beginners who want to test whether they even like playing semi-hollow guitars. The basswood body and rosewood fingerboard are basic but functional, and the included gig bag, strap, and amp cord mean you can play the moment the box arrives.
At 185 reviews and a 4.2 average rating, the GTL has its share of critics. The lighter weight suggests a thinner body than premium models, but for the price it is hard to beat as a first guitar.
H-S Pickup Configuration Character
The humbucker at the neck and single coil at the bridge is an unusual but versatile setup. The neck humbucker delivers the warm, rounded tone semi-hollow fans expect.
The bridge single coil adds brightness and bite for styles that need more clarity. The 3-way switch lets you blend the two for in-between tones.
Accessories Pack Value
The included gig bag, shoulder strap, and amp cord would cost extra with most competitors. For a beginner on a tight budget, this bundle saves real money.
The quality of the accessories matches the guitar. They are starter-level, but they are functional enough to get you playing immediately.
First Guitar Considerations
The Transparent Wine Red finish is genuinely attractive. The white pearl pickguard adds a vintage touch.
If you are not sure whether semi-hollow is the right body style for you, the GLARRY lets you find out for the price of a single pedal. Just plan on a professional setup to get the best playability out of it.
How to Choose the Best Semi-Hollow Body Guitar
Choosing the right semi-hollow body guitar comes down to body construction, pickup type, scale length, and your tolerance for setup work. The best semi hollow body guitars share a few non-negotiable traits, but the right model for you depends heavily on the genre you play and the stage you play on.
Body Construction: Center Block, Chambered, or Solid Spruce Block
The defining feature of a true semi-hollow is a solid center block that runs the length of the body. That block is what resists feedback at stage volume while still letting the chambered wings resonate.
Fully hollow guitars like the Gibson ES-175 have no center block and will howl through a driven amp. Solid-body guitars have no resonance chamber at all.
Look for a model with a maple or spruce center block if you plan to play with distortion. The Gretsch G5655TG, Epiphone ES-335, and Ibanez Artcore AS73 all use this design.
Pickup Types: Humbucker, Filter’Tron, P-90, or Wide Range
Pickup type shapes tone more than any other spec. Classic humbuckers give you warmth and noiseless operation, which is why the Gibson ES-335 and Epiphone ES-335 use them.
Gretsch Filter’Tron and Broad’Tron pickups deliver that bright, twangy rockabilly voice. Fender Wide Range humbuckers, like those in the Squier Starcaster, sit somewhere between humbucker and single coil.
P-90 pickups are less common in semi-hollows but produce a gritty, mid-forward tone that blues and punk players love. For maximum versatility, dual humbuckers remain the safest starting point.
Feedback Management Tips for Live Performance
Feedback is the biggest complaint new semi-hollow owners have, especially from forum posters on Reddit and The Gear Page. A few simple tricks tame it.
Stand away from your amp, angle the guitar so the f-holes do not face the speaker, and use a noise gate pedal if you play high-gain material. Rolling off the guitar’s tone knob slightly also reduces the frequencies that feed back first.
For louder stages, consider a solid foam f-hole cover. They are cheap, invisible from the audience, and dramatically reduce microphonic feedback.
Scale Length and Neck Profile for Your Hand
Scale length affects string tension and overall feel. Gibson-style 24.75-inch scales feel slinkier and make bends easier, which is why the Grote 335 and Epiphone ES-335 use them.
Fender-style 25.5-inch scales feel tighter and brighter. The Ibanez AS73, Ibanez AS53, and Squier Starcaster all use longer scales.
Neck profile is personal. Try before you buy if possible, or stick with medium C profiles that work for most hands.
Setup Requirements for Budget Models
Forum users consistently mention that budget semi-hollows need a professional setup out of the box. This is true for the GLARRY GTL, Grote 335, and WestCreek 333.
A professional setup typically costs $40 to $80 and includes truss rod adjustment, action setting, intonation, and nut slot filing. It transforms a budget guitar from frustrating to playable.
If you are buying online, factor the cost of a setup into your total budget. A $200 guitar with an $80 setup will often play better than a $400 guitar straight out of the box.
FAQs
What is the best semi-hollow guitar for the money?
The Ibanez Artcore AS73 is the best semi-hollow guitar for the money, with a flawless 4.9 average rating from verified buyers, dual humbuckers, and a comfortable Nyatoh neck. For under $500 it competes with guitars that cost twice as much.
Are semi-hollow guitars good for beginners?
Yes, semi-hollow guitars are good for beginners who want warm, versatile tone. Models like the GLARRY GTL and WestCreek 333 are affordable starting points, though budget semi-hollows usually need a professional setup to play their best.
Do semi-hollow guitars have feedback issues?
Semi-hollow guitars have far fewer feedback issues than fully hollow guitars because of the solid center block. They can still feed back at high stage volumes, but standing off-axis from the amp and rolling off the tone knob usually solves it.
Can semi-hollow guitars be used for rock and metal?
Yes, semi-hollow guitars work well for rock and even some metal tones. The center block controls feedback under high gain, and humbuckers push distortion pedals effectively. The Fender Tom Delonge Starcaster and Gretsch Center Block models are popular for rock.
How do semi-hollow guitars differ from full hollow body guitars?
Semi-hollow guitars have a solid center block running through the body, while full hollow body guitars are completely chambered like an acoustic. The center block adds feedback resistance and sustain, making semi-hollows more versatile for amplified genres.
What brands make the best semi-hollow guitars?
Gibson, Epiphone, Ibanez, Gretsch, Fender, and Heritage are the leading semi-hollow brands. Gibson and Epiphone own the ES-335 lineage, Ibanez dominates the affordable Artcore tier, and Gretsch delivers distinctive twang with the Electromatic line.
Final Thoughts on the Best Semi Hollow Body Guitars
The best semi hollow body guitars in 2026 cover every budget and genre from $80 starter bundles to $1000 stage-ready Gretsches. The right pick depends on what you play and how loud you play it.
If you want one guitar that handles jazz, blues, and indie rock, go with the Ibanez Artcore AS73. If you need the most tone per dollar, the Grote 335 Style is the category best-seller for a reason. Beginners on a tight budget should start with the GLARRY GTL bundle.
For Gretsch fans who need a real Bigsby and serious stage credentials, the Gretsch G5655TG Electromatic Center Block Jr. is worth the extra spend. The Epiphone ES-335 Figured Top is the obvious choice for players who want true Gibson lineage without the Gibson price tag.
Whichever model you pick, budget for a professional setup if you are shopping the budget tier. The best semi hollow body guitars only sound their best when the action, intonation, and nut slots are dialed in correctly. Pick the model that matches your music and start playing.