Hollow Body Guitars

20 min readJun 21, 2024

Welcome guitar enthusiasts, today we’re diving into the world of Hollow Body Guitars — a classic choice for many musicians. If you’re a fan of that warm, resonant sound, then this roundup is for you. Prepare to explore a range of top-quality Hollow Body Guitars, designed to bring out the best in your music.

The Top 13 Best Hollow Body Guitars

Electromatic Classic Hollow Body Double-Cut 12-String Guitar with Filter’Tron Pickups — Embrace the iconic Gretsch sound and style of the ’50s and ’60s with the Electromatic Classic Hollow Body Double-Cut 12-String, featuring a laminated maple body, upgraded controls, and premium hardware for an unforgettable playing experience.
Squier Classic Vibe Hollow Body Guitar — 3 Color Sunburst — Experience the classic 1970s design with the Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster — 3 Color Sunburst, featuring 100% Fender-designed SQR humbuckers, player-friendly features, and vintage-inspired details.
Vintage Sunburst Hollow Body Epiphone Broadway Electric Guitar — Epiphone Broadway Hollowbody Electric Guitar — Vintage Sunburst: A versatile classic jazz guitar, featuring Alnico Classic PRO humbuckers for exceptional sonic quality, a rich layered maple body, and an easy-to-play slim taper ’60s C neck profile.
Hollow Body Electric Guitar with Super 58 Pickups — Experience the versatility of the Ibanez AS113 Artstar Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar, a Brown Sunburst masterpiece featuring Super 58 pickups, Macassar Ebony fretboard, and a hardshell case for ultimate protection.
Ibanez AF55LTF Tobacco Flat Top Left-Handed Electric Guitar — Create a beautiful, vintage-inspired sound with the Ibanez AF55LTF Electric Guitar, a stunning hollow body guitar with alluring features such as maple sapele top/back/sides, open-coil Ibanez ceramic humbuckers, and a comfy Nyatoh tapered neck.
Hollow Body Electric Guitar with Bound Indian Laurel Fretboard — Discover the perfect blend of vintage style and modern innovation with the Ibanez AF55 Artcore Hollowbody Electric Guitar, featuring a Mahogany set-in neck, Linden top/back/sides, and Infinity R Pickups, all in a Transparent Black Flat finish.
Ibanez George Benson Signature Hollow Body Guitar — Experience the mellow yet dynamic sound of the Ibanez GB10SE George Benson Signature Hollow Body Electric Guitar, featuring a premium solid spruce top, maple body and neck, ebony fretboard, and rare pickups for an exceptional playing experience.
Heritage Standard H-535 Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar — Classic 50’s Tone and Style — Experience the timeless sound of the Heritage Standard H-535 Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar, featuring two Seymour Duncan ’59 humbuckers and a solid curly maple rim for versatility and exceptional performance.
PRS SE Hollowbody Standard Electric Guitar — Fire Burst Red — Experience the warm, resonant tone and versatile playing style of the PRS 2020 SE Hollowbody Standard Electric Guitar in Fire Red Burst, featuring fully-hollow construction, PRS Adjustable Stoptail, and 58/15 ‘S’ pickups.
Gretsch G6120T Hollow Body Guitar with Bigsby Western Stain, Orange — Co-designed with legendary guitarist Chet Atkins, the Gretsch G6120T Chet Atkins Hollow Body offers a versatile and elegant playing experience with classic aesthetics and smooth tone, making it a sought-after contender in the Hollow Body Guitar category.
Epiphone Emperor Swingster Hollow Body Electric Guitar — Experience the versatility and classic sound of the Epiphone Emperor Swingster Hollowbody Electric Guitar, with a 5-ply layered maple body, mahogany neck, and dual Epiphone SwingBucker pickups that offer a wide range of tonal options.
Sire H7BK Hollow Body Electric Guitar — The Sire H7BK Black Semi-Hollowbody Guitar combines Larry Carlton’s signature style with a solid flamed maple body, offering a versatile and high-quality playing experience.
Vintage Style Guild A-150 Savoy Hollow Body Electric Guitar — Great Tone and Quality Craftsmanship — Experience the warm, jazzy tones of a vintage ’50s classic with the Guild A-150 Savoy Hollow Body Electric Guitar — the perfect blend of rich sound and old-school charm.

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Reviews

Electromatic Classic Hollow Body Double-Cut 12-String Guitar with Filter’Tron Pickups

The Gretsch G5422G-12 Electromatic Classic Hollow Body Double-Cut 12-String was the perfect instrument to bring me back to my roots. With a nod to the ’50s and ’60s, this guitar delivers a vintage vibe that pairs perfectly with my classic rock and roll sound. The full hollow-body build offers a resonant sound that fills rooms with its full-bodied punch, while the classic ‘Tron pickups deliver a chime like no other. I was blown away by the playability of the Classic “C”-shaped maple neck and the comfortable 12" radius laurel fingerboard.

One standout feature is the Adjusto-Matic bridge, which secures the laurel base for a sturdy feel when strumming or bending strings. While the set-up was near-perfect out of the box, I did notice a few areas where I’d like to tweak the action and intonation for my personal style. Still, overall Gretsch has managed to create a work of art at a price point that’s difficult to beat.

In terms of cons, the gold hardware and gold pickguard feel a bit out of place against the Single Barrel Burst and Walnut Stain finishes, but my minor gripe aside, this Electromatic Classic Hollow Body Double-Cut 12-String is a worthwhile investment for any classic rock and roller.

Squier Classic Vibe Hollow Body Guitar — 3 Color Sunburst

The Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster exudes old-school vibes, transporting players back to the golden era of guitar-making. This semi-hollow design, complete with an offset body shape, is both visually striking and sonically satisfying. Dual Fender-Designed Wide Range humbucking pickups provide the guitar with massive tone capabilities, perfect for those who enjoy strumming clean to medium gain.

A comfortable C standard neck shape, coupled with an easy-playing 9.5" radius fingerboard and narrow-tall frets, ensures that the guitar is not only easy on the hands but also a delight to play. Adding to the throwback appeal, the Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster boasts a painted headstock contour, 1970s-inspired headstock markings, rich-looking nickel-plated hardware, and a vintage-tint gloss neck finish.

However, some players might find the pickup-related customizations less successful. Upgrading the stock pickups to Fender’s CuNiFe wide range humbuckers in particular did not yield the expected significant difference in sound quality. This, unfortunately, proves that Fender did an excellent job voicing the original humbuckers in the guitar. Apart from this, the guitar remains solid and worthwhile, offering plenty of enjoyment to those looking for an old-school, semi-hollow guitar experience.

Vintage Sunburst Hollow Body Epiphone Broadway Electric Guitar

The Epiphone Broadway, a hollowbody electric guitar, is a fantastic addition to any musician’s collection. Boasting a vintage sunburst finish and featuring a select spruce top with layered maple body, this guitar is sure to turn heads with its stunning look. The pickups are crafted to perfection, offering a nuanced sound that is both rich and expressive.

The two volume and two tone controls ensure that you can customize your sound to your exact specifications, giving you the freedom to create a unique tone that is all your own. With its layered maple body and select spruce top, the Broadway delivers a deep and resonant tone that will captivate any audience.

Premium tuners and a gold finish add a touch of elegance to the guitar’s already impressive appearance. The slim taper ’60s C neck profile and Indian laurel fingerboard contribute to its effortless playability, allowing you to easily move across the fretboard. Overall, the Epiphone Broadway is a versatile and high-quality jazz guitar that is perfect for musicians who want to stand out from the crowd with their own unique style.

Hollow Body Electric Guitar with Super 58 Pickups

I’ve recently been giving the Ibanez AS113 Artstar Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar a spin, and let me tell you, it’s been quite the ride. The brown sunburst finish gives it a classic, timeless look that adds a touch of sophistication to any performance.

One feature I’ve absolutely loved is the Macassar Ebony fretboard. It provides a rich and warm tone, with tight lows and mid-range that complement the powerful attack in the highs and rich sustain. The combination of this fretboard with the 3pc Nyatoh/Maple neck has been a dream to play on. It’s a smooth, comfortable ride from the first strum to the last.

The Spruce top, Flamed Maple back, and sides not only look amazing but also provide a solid foundation for the Super 58 pickups. These humbuckers have a moderate output and a vintage tone that really shines across different genres of music. I’ve loved experimenting with the Tri-sound switch on the neck pickup, which adds even more versatility to this already versatile guitar.

The Gibraltar Artist bridge offers rich sustain and tuning stability, while the Quik Change III tailpiece makes string changing a breeze. All these features are neatly tucked away in the Ibanez Hardshell case, providing the ultimate protection for my beloved guitar.

In conclusion, the Ibanez AS113 Artstar Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar is a remarkable instrument that excels in performance, versatility, and durability. It’s been a joy to play on, and I can confidently say that it’s been a worthwhile investment for me.

Ibanez AF55LTF Tobacco Flat Top Left-Handed Electric Guitar

As a guitar enthusiast who dabbles in a variety of genres, I’ve always found myself drawn to unique and versatile instruments. The Ibanez AF55LTF Hollow Body Electric Guitar caught my attention immediately with its intricate design and seemingly old-school charm. Crafted from a series of high-quality materials, this guitar is a delight to both play and look at — perfect for both seasoned players and beginners alike.

One of the first things that stood out to me about this guitar was the high-quality wood used in its construction. The sapele top, back, and sides offer an elegant and warm finish that truly accentuates the guitar’s natural beauty, with the flat finish showcasing the maple’s intricate grain pattern. The neck, carved from Nyatoh, feels incredibly smooth to the touch and provides exceptional comfort during long playing sessions. The bound walnut fingerboard, adorned with pearloid dot inlays and jumbo frets, is a joy to maneuver, making the guitar a breeze to play.

What really sets the AF55LTF apart, however, is the set of open-coil Ibanez ceramic Humbuckers housed within it. These pickups deliver an incredible range of warm, full, and rich tones, allowing me to experiment with a variety of jazz and blues styles with ease. The single-cutaway design, combined with the stop-bar tailpiece, ensures that the AF55LTF stays stable and in tune even during the most intense riffs and solos.

Despite its high-quality features, the AF55LTF remains an affordable and accessible option for players on a budget. Its versatility and old-school charm make it a perfect companion for any guitarist, whether they’re just starting out or seeking to expand their musical horizons. The AF55LTF’s case isn’t included, but I’ve found that a custom-fitted hardshell case adds extra protection and style to this already impressive instrument.

All in all, the Ibanez AF55LTF Hollow Body Electric Guitar is an incredible option for any guitarist seeking a versatile, beautiful, and surprisingly affordable instrument. Its high-quality construction and rich tones make it a joy to play, and I have no doubt that it will become a treasured member of any guitarist’s collection.

Hollow Body Electric Guitar with Bound Indian Laurel Fretboard

I recently had the opportunity to try the Ibanez AF55 Artcore Hollowbody Electric Guitar in a Transparent Black Flat finish, and I must say, it’s been a delight to play with. Right out of the box, the guitar had a beautiful finish that felt super pleasant. The sound was acoustically more than ‘just good’, and the intonation was spot on.

I loved the balance between the warm, somewhat ‘heavy’ lower registers and the crisp high end notes that the guitar produced. Although it took me a few days to get used to the slightly rougher fretboard, I found that the intonation was really well done, allowing me to play with slightly rougher hands without any issues.

One thing that stood out to me was the fact that this guitar is a great value for the price. It’s a pure jazz-box that embodies the continual innovation that is Jazz. The build quality is excellent, and for the price, it’s quite a steal.

However, one thing I noticed was the lack of a pickguard. Although it’s purely a cosmetic issue, it did affect the overall look of the guitar. Additionally, the pickups were a bit sensitive to the rubbing sound that occurs when my hand comes into contact with the ribbon-y bit that wraps around the pickup.

Overall, I would definitely recommend this guitar to anyone looking for a great value, high-quality electric guitar to add to their collection. It’s definitely a winner in terms of price and quality.

Ibanez George Benson Signature Hollow Body Guitar

The Ibanez GB10SE is a fantastic choice for jazz guitar enthusiasts looking for a versatile and comfortable instrument. With its hollow body design, this electric guitar offers a mellow yet powerful sound that responds well to dynamic playing.

Its solid spruce top, maple body, and neck, along with an ebony fretboard, deliver excellent resonance and playability. The floating pickups and tailpiece provide ample control over tone and intonation, while the set-in joint and 24 frets provide enhanced comfort and access.

The guitar also boasts a unique look with its sunburst finish, adding to its overall appeal. Overall, the Ibanez GB10SE is a high-quality, budget-friendly option for jazz guitarists seeking the perfect workhorse instrument.

Heritage Standard H-535 Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar — Classic 50’s Tone and Style

The Heritage Standard H-535 is a top-tier semi-hollow electric guitar, designed with classic vintage American tones in mind. The most impressive aspect of this guitar is its attention to detail, which you can feel and hear in every aspect of its design. The rich, authentic sound comes from the Seymour Duncan ’59 humbucking pickups, offering a range of tones that will have you feeling like you’re playing a late ’50s classic. The solid curly maple rim wood and genuine mahogany neck provide exceptional stability and resonance, making it ideal for various genres of music, from rock to jazz to blues, and everything in between.

As a working musician, versatility is key — and this Heritage Standard H-535 doesn’t disappoint. The hard case included adds to its value and portability, ensuring it arrives at your gig safely and ready-to-play. And let’s not forget, it’s hand-crafted in the United States, with meticulous attention to detail from the set-neck joint to the Grover tuning machines, making it a true workhorse that many guitar enthusiasts swear by.

PRS SE Hollowbody Standard Electric Guitar — Fire Burst Red

I recently had the chance to get my hands on the PRS SE Hollowbody Standard in Fire Burst Red, and I must say, the experience has been nothing short of delightful. The guitar’s fully hollow construction added a unique, warm, and resonant sound that I’ve never quite experienced before. Its seamless balance of a solid-body’s power and a hollow body’s sonority has made it a versatile instrument capable of adapting to various styles of playing.

One of the standout features for me was the PRS 58/15 ‘S’ pickups. They truly enhanced the character of the hollow body while providing a well-balanced tone. From crisp cleans to articulate lead playing, this guitar has done it all with ease. Moreover, the 3-way toggle switch allowed me to experiment with pickup combinations, making the guitar even more versatile.

The PRS Adjustable Stoptail bridge provided excellent intonation and a comfortable action customization. Alongside, the PRS-Designed tuning machines ensured rock-solid tuning stability, making this guitar a reliable performer even in the most challenging situations.

Despite its many positives, I did encounter a few minor drawbacks. The set-up process took some time, and I found the guitar needed small adjustments. Additionally, while the finish and fretwork were top-notch, I noticed a slight hollowness in the body’s resonance that, although not a deal-breaker, was worth mentioning.

In conclusion, the PRS SE Hollowbody Standard in Fire Burst Red has been a satisfying addition to my guitar collection. Its unique blend of tones, versatility, and build quality have impressed me, and I would highly recommend it to fellow guitar enthusiasts.

Gretsch G6120T Hollow Body Guitar with Bigsby Western Stain, Orange

I recently had the pleasure of playing the Gretsch G6120T-55 Vintage Select Edition ’55 Chet Atkins hollowbody with Bigsby. Co-designed with the guitar legend Chet Atkins, this instrument has the perfect combination of classic aesthetics and modern sound. As soon as I strummed the first chord, the iconic Gretsch tone rang out loud and clear. The TV Jones T-Armond single-coil pickups provided a multidimensional tone with plenty of articulate detail, making it a veritable tonal multi-tool.

One of the highlights of this guitar is its comfortable feel, with easy-playing neck and body that lets you focus on playing without getting distracted. The vintage appointments, such as gold G Arrow control knobs, aged white binding with black purfling, and a gold Grover Sta-tite tuning machine, all contribute to the guitar’s stunning appearance.

While there’s no denying this guitar’s quality, it’s not without its minor drawbacks. The setup might require some minor adjustments to achieve optimal playability for individual users, but the experienced luthiers at Gretsch ensure that it’s ready to go right out of the box. The price tag of this premium instrument might be a little steep for some, but those who appreciate its rich sound and timeless design will find it to be well worth the investment.

Epiphone Emperor Swingster Hollow Body Electric Guitar

As a musician, I have had the pleasure of trying out the Epiphone Emperor Swingster Hollowbody Electric Guitar. With its 5-ply layered maple body and mahogany neck, this beauty has everything you need to strum your way through various genres, from jazz and blues to rockabilly and country. The slim tapered neck offered a comfortable and fast-playing experience, while the Grover rotomatic tuning machines kept everything in tune nicely!

One thing that really struck me about this guitar was the versatility of its pickups. The two Epiphone SwingBucker pickups with dedicated volume and tone controls allowed for a wide range of tones, perfect for my rockabilly band. The series/parallel switching, along with the 3-way toggle pickup selector switch, gave me even more options to explore while finding my sound.

The LockTone tune-o-matic bridge was also a nice feature, making tuning a breeze. The licensed Bigsby vibrato with a wire handle added that vintage feel while retaining tuning stability. I was also impressed with the choice of finishes, including the Black Aged Gloss and Delta Blue Metallic options.

However, there were a couple of things that didn’t quite meet my expectations. First, the headstock design seemed somewhat cheap compared to the rest of the guitar. Second, the pickguard was a little too high and thick for my playing style, so I had to remove it. Other than these minor issues, this guitar has become my go-to for rockabilly jams and has quickly become a favorite in my music arsenal.

Sire H7BK Hollow Body Electric Guitar

Imagine diving into the world of quality guitars without breaking the bank. That’s exactly what the Sire H7 semi-acoustic brings to the table, and I’ve been living that experience daily. This guitar, based on Larry Carlton’s most cherished instrument, boasts an impressive array of features that cater to a diverse range of users, including musicians of all levels.

One of the first things that grabbed my attention was the combination of maple back and sides, solid flamed maple body, and the C-shaped mahogany neck. The ebony fingerboard and rolled fretboard edges are an added touch that elevates the guitar’s overall appeal and playability. The 24.75" scale and 2.7mm medium jumbo frets ensure a smooth, comfortable experience while performing.

The tone of this guitar is another highlight, with deep rich bass, defined mids, and clear highs making it stand out from the competition. Even though it’s a semi-hollow body, the H7 holds its own against solid-body guitars and maintains its balanced sound. The Larry Carlton Vintage Humbucker set delivers a warm, sweet tone that I’ve grown quite fond of.

While the Sire H7 boasts plenty of positives, there are a few areas where it could use some improvement. At times, the lack of branded tuning machines can lead to inconsistent tuning stability, especially after prolonged play. Additionally, the included accessories, such as the case or gig bag, might fall short of expectations for some users.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Sire H7 has proven to be an exceptional guitar that has exceeded my expectations in terms of playability and sound quality. If you’re in the market for an affordable, high-quality semi-acoustic guitar, the Sire H7 is definitely worth considering.

Vintage Style Guild A-150 Savoy Hollow Body Electric Guitar — Great Tone and Quality Craftsmanship

In the past, I used to play music for hours, often borrowing a guitar from a friend. The sound of the guitar was a big part of my life, and I wished I had my own. One sunny afternoon, while scrolling through the internet, I stumbled upon a Guild A-150 Savoy electric guitar. This one had a unique design, made of a solid arched spruce top with laminated flame maple back and sides. I read the product description and was impressed by the warmth and vibrance of the tone it produced, thanks to the DeArmond 1000 floating pickup. The detail in the description had my heart racing with excitement, and I couldn’t believe my luck in finding such a perfect fit for me.

As I eagerly placed my order, I was thrilled with the thought of finally owning my very own guitar. The moment it arrived, I was blown away by the quality of the gloss polyurethane finish and the beauty of the ivory ABS binding that beautifully enhanced the instrument’s vintage look. The long/full body of the Savoy Hollow Body Electric Guitar fit perfectly in my hands, and as I started to play, I instantly fell in love with the rich, jazzy tones that filled the room. Its classic ’50s design, combined with modern pickup technology, made it a dream to play and listen to.

However, there were some downsides to this otherwise fantastic guitar. The white binding on the body and fretboard made it more challenging to replace the strings, as the tiny washers would often get stuck in between the binding and the sides of the guitar. This made changing strings a tedious process, often requiring the help of additional tools. Additionally, the floating pickup had the tendency to shift towards the low end spectrum, resulting in a slightly imbalanced sound when playing the E and B strings. Lastly, there were times when I wished for a different finish or color, as while I appreciated the antique and vintage feel, it was not exactly what I had in mind.

Considering the pros and cons, I would say that the Guild A-150 Savoy Electric Guitar was a fantastic addition to my music collection. It offered a warm and inviting tone, with rich, jazzy notes that I had always desired. While the minor inconveniences may have slightly dampened my enthusiasm, the guitar overall brought joy and inspiration to my daily life. In conclusion, I would recommend this guitar to anyone seeking that sweet, warm, and inviting jazz sound that the Guild A-150 Savoy Hollow Body Electric Guitar provides.

Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to exploring the world of music, a hollow body guitar is an excellent choice for those looking to create a vibrant and rich sound. Known for their warm tones and versatility, these guitars are ideal for a wide range of playing styles and genres. In this buyer’s guide, we will discuss the important features and considerations when selecting a hollow body guitar, making your decision-making process a breeze.

Design

Hollow body guitars come in various designs, each affecting the guitar’s tone and playability. Some of the popular designs include semi-hollow, fully hollow, and chambered bodies. Semi-hollow models have a solid center block, while fully hollow guitars have open holes in the top and back. Chambered guitars have cavities in the body, which reduces weight and enhances resonance. Consider your preferred design and the sound you want to achieve when making your decision.

Body Construction

The body construction plays a significant role in the guitar’s tone and sound quality. Common materials used for hollow body construction include mahogany, maple, and laminate. Mahogany provides a warm and rich tone, while maple is known for its bright and punchy sound. Laminate options are generally more affordable and suitable for beginners.

Pickups

Hollow body guitars can be equipped with various pickup configurations, including single-coil, humbucker, and P-90 pickups. Single-coil pickups offer a bright and clear sound, while humbuckers provide a warm and rich tone with higher output levels. P-90 pickups are popular for their versatility, combining the best qualities of both single-coil and humbucker pickups. Determine which pickup configuration best suits your playing style and musical preferences.

Bridge and Tailpiece

The bridge and tailpiece play a crucial role in the guitar’s sustain and tuning stability. Common types of bridges used in hollow body guitars include Tune-o-matic, Floyd Rose, and vibrato. Adjustable bridges, like Tune-o-matic, offer easy fine-tuning, while tremolo bridges provide greater sustain and expressiveness. Consider the bridge type that best suits your playing style and the desired tuning stability for your hollow body guitar.

FAQ

What Makes a Guitar a Hollow Body Guitar?

A hollow body guitar is an acoustic or semi-acoustic guitar that features hollow chambers within its body. This design produces a richer, warmer and more resonant sound than solid-bodied guitars due to the increased vibrations these hollow chambers allow. These guitars also tend to be heavier compared to solid-body styles.

Hollow body guitars are particularly popular among jazz and blues musicians, who value the instrument’s warmer tones and vintage aesthetic. Their larger size makes them suitable for gigging and recording situations where natural acoustic sound is desirable, but they might not be as portable or versatile as solid-body electric guitars.

What Are Some Popular Hollow Body Guitar Brands?

Some of the most well-known brands for hollow body guitars include Gibson, Epiphone, Gretsch, and Fender. These brands have gained popularity for their craftsmanship, unique designs, and wide range of models catering to different playing styles and preferences. Each brand may have its unique strengths, such as Gibson’s classic 1959 model, Epiphone’s affordability, Gretsch’s distinctive “C” shape, or Fender’s versatile range of hollow body electric guitars.

It is crucial to consider factors like budget, preferred playing style, and personal aesthetics when selecting a hollow body guitar. Experimenting with a few different brands or models could help you find the one that best suits your musical needs and preferences. Be sure to playtest any instrument before purchasing to ensure it meets your expectations.

What Are the Benefits of Playing Hollow Body Guitars?

Hollow body guitars offer a unique blend of sound and versatility that makes them an attractive choice for some players. Their rich, warm tones, produced by the resonant hollow chambers, provide an acoustic-like sound, while their semi-hollow or fully-hollow construction still allows for use with electric pickups. This combination makes them a popular choice for jazz, blues, and country players, as well as those who appreciate the vintage aesthetics.

Hollow body guitars also tend to have excellent balance and comfort, thanks to their larger bodies and deeper cuts. However, their larger size and heavier weight may make them less portable or suitable for beginners. Additionally, the hollow body design may require more maintenance to keep the finish and woods in good condition.

What Are the Downsides of Playing Hollow Body Guitars?

One downside of hollow body guitars is their generally high price point, which is due to the high-quality woods, craftsmanship, and sought-after designs used in these instruments. While there are more affordable options available, you may need to invest more upfront when choosing a hollow body guitar.

Another potential issue to consider is the need for special care to maintain the instrument’s finish and prevent damage to the wood. These guitars also tend to have a larger size and more substantial weight compared to solid-body designs, which could make gigging and everyday transport more challenging.

How Do I Care for a Hollow Body Guitar?

Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the appearance and sound quality of your wooden hollow body guitar. Before and after each session of playing, gently clean the guitar’s body with a soft cloth, avoiding abrasive materials like steel wool or scrubbers that may damage the finish.

Storing your hollow body guitar correctly is crucial to protect it from scratches or structural damage. Always use a well-padded case that fits your instrument snugly, and avoid letting the guitar sag down from its case to prevent bowing. Regularly inspect the guitar for loosening screws, cracks, or other maintenance issues.

What Are the Different Varieties of Hollow Body Guitars?

There are several types of hollow body guitars, each with its own unique attributes and target market. Some of the main categories are Jazzbox styles, Archtop styles, and Semi-Acoustic/Hollowbody styles. These guitars may differ in their construction, wood types, pickguard placement, and overall vibe, catering to different musical preferences and situations.

Jazzbox styles are characterized by their larger body, deeper cuts, and a focus on natural acoustic-like sounds rather than electric tones. Archtop styles feature flared f-holes for increased sound projection and a more contemporary look. Semi-Acoustic/Hollowbody styles may possess a thinner top or semi-solid body, which can offer a mix of the benefits of both solid-body and traditional hollow body guitars, such as increased sustain and versatility.