Electric hollow body guitars are a unique and versatile type of guitar that offers a warm, resonant sound that is perfect for a variety of genres, from jazz to blues to rock. But with so many different models on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best electric hollow body guitars, so you can find the perfect instrument for your needs.
Editor’s Notes: Electric hollow body guitars are a great choice for players who want a versatile guitar with a warm, resonant sound. They are also relatively lightweight and easy to play, making them a good choice for beginners.
We’ve done the research and dug through all the information out there to put together this guide to the best electric hollow body guitars. We’ve considered factors like price, features, and sound quality to help you make the right decision.
Key Differences
| Feature | Best Electric Hollow Body Guitar |
|---|---|
| Price | $1,000-$2,000 |
| Features | Humbuckers, single-coils, piezo pickup |
| Sound Quality | Warm, resonant, versatile |
Main Article Topics
- The different types of electric hollow body guitars
- The pros and cons of electric hollow body guitars
- How to choose the right electric hollow body guitar for you
- Reviews of the best electric hollow body guitars on the market
1. Body Style
The body style of an electric hollow body guitar is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a guitar. The body style will affect the sound, playability, and overall feel of the guitar.
- Single-Cutaway: The single-cutaway is the most traditional style of electric hollow body guitar. It features a single cutaway on the upper bout, which provides easier access to the higher frets. Single-cutaway guitars typically have a good balance of tone and sustain.
- Double-Cutaway: The double-cutaway is a more modern style of electric hollow body guitar. It features two cutaways, one on the upper bout and one on the lower bout. This provides even easier access to the higher frets than a single-cutaway guitar. Double-cutaway guitars typically have a brighter, more twangy sound than single-cutaway guitars.
- Semi-Hollow Body: The semi-hollow body is a hybrid design that combines the features of a hollow body guitar and a solid body guitar. Semi-hollow body guitars typically have a solid center block running through the body, which helps to reduce feedback and increase sustain. Semi-hollow body guitars typically have a warmer, more resonant sound than solid body guitars.
The body style of an electric hollow body guitar is a matter of personal preference. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best way to choose a guitar is to try out different models and see what feels and sounds best to you.
2. Construction
The construction of an electric hollow body guitar is one of the most important factors that will affect its sound and playability. The type of wood used, the body shape, and the construction method will all contribute to the overall sound and feel of the guitar.
- Body Shape: The body shape of an electric hollow body guitar will affect its sound and resonance. Single-cutaway guitars have a brighter, more twangy sound than double-cutaway guitars, which have a warmer, more mellow sound. Semi-hollow body guitars have a more balanced sound that is well-suited for a variety of genres.
- Wood Type: The type of wood used in the construction of an electric hollow body guitar will also affect its sound. Maple is a bright, resonant wood that produces a clear, articulate sound. Mahogany is a warmer, darker wood that produces a more mellow sound. Spruce is a lightweight wood that produces a bright, airy sound.
- Construction Method: The construction method used to build an electric hollow body guitar will also affect its sound and playability. Solid body guitars are made from a single piece of wood, which gives them a more sustain and a brighter sound. Hollow body guitars are made from a thin piece of wood that is glued to a solid wood frame, which gives them a warmer, more resonant sound. Semi-hollow body guitars are a hybrid of solid body and hollow body guitars, with a solid wood center block that helps to reduce feedback and increase sustain.
The construction of an electric hollow body guitar is a complex and nuanced topic. By understanding the different factors that affect the sound and playability of these guitars, you can make an informed decision about which guitar is right for you.
3. Pickups
The type of pickups used in an electric hollow body guitar will have a significant impact on the sound of the guitar. Humbuckers are a type of pickup that uses two coils to cancel out hum and produce a thicker, more powerful sound. Single-coils are a type of pickup that uses a single coil to produce a brighter, more twangy sound.
- Humbuckers
Humbuckers are a good choice for players who want a thick, powerful sound. They are often used in rock and blues music. Some popular humbucker-equipped guitars include the Gibson Les Paul and the Fender Stratocaster.
- Single-Coils
Single-coils are a good choice for players who want a bright, twangy sound. They are often used in country and pop music. Some popular single-coil-equipped guitars include the Fender Telecaster and the Gibson SG.
Ultimately, the best type of pickups for an electric hollow body guitar is a matter of personal preference. Players should experiment with different types of pickups to find the sound that they like best.
4. Electronics
The electronics on an electric hollow body guitar are an important part of the overall sound of the guitar. The volume and tone controls allow you to shape the sound of the guitar to your liking, and the pickup selector switch allows you to choose between different pickups. The type of pickups you choose will also have a significant impact on the sound of the guitar. Humbuckers produce a thicker, more powerful sound, while single-coils produce a brighter, more
twangy sound.
When choosing the right electronics for your electric hollow body guitar, it is important to consider your playing style. If you play a lot of lead guitar, you may want to choose a guitar with humbuckers, as they will give you a thicker, more sustain sound. If you play a lot of rhythm guitar, you may want to choose a guitar with single-coils, as they will give you a brighter, more twangy sound.
Here are some examples of how the electronics on an electric hollow body guitar can affect the sound of the guitar:
- Volume control: The volume control allows you to adjust the overall volume of the guitar. This is useful for controlling the volume of the guitar in different playing situations, such as when you are playing in a band or when you are practicing at home.
- Tone control: The tone control allows you to adjust the EQ of the guitar. This is useful for shaping the sound of the guitar to your liking. For example, you can use the tone control to boost the bass frequencies for a warmer sound, or you can use the tone control to boost the treble frequencies for a brighter sound.
- Pickup selector switch: The pickup selector switch allows you to choose between different pickups. This is useful for getting different sounds from the guitar. For example, you can use the pickup selector switch to select the neck pickup for a warmer, more mellow sound, or you can use the pickup selector switch to select the bridge pickup for a brighter, more twangy sound.
By understanding how the electronics on an electric hollow body guitar work, you can choose the right electronics for your playing style and get the sound you want from your guitar.
Table: How the electronics on an electric hollow body guitar affect the sound of the guitar | Control | Effect | |—|—| | Volume | Adjusts the overall volume of the guitar. | | Tone | Adjusts the EQ of the guitar. | | Pickup selector switch | Allows you to choose between different pickups. |
5. Hardware
The hardware on an electric hollow body guitar is an important part of the overall playability of the guitar. The bridge, tailpiece, and tuners all play a role in how the guitar feels and sounds when you play it.
The bridge is responsible for transferring the vibrations of the strings to the body of the guitar. The type of bridge you choose will affect the sustain, intonation, and overall sound of the guitar. There are many different types of bridges available, so it is important to do your research and find the one that is right for you.
The tailpiece is responsible for anchoring the strings at the end of the body. The type of tailpiece you choose will affect the tension of the strings and the overall sound of the guitar. There are many different types of tailpieces available, so it is important to do your research and find the one that is right for you.
The tuners are responsible for keeping the strings in tune. The type of tuners you choose will affect the accuracy and stability of the tuning. There are many different types of tuners available, so it is important to do your research and find the ones that are right for you.
Choosing the right hardware for your electric hollow body guitar is important for getting the best possible playability and sound. By taking the time to consider the different options available, you can find the perfect hardware for your needs.
| Hardware | Effect on Playability |
|---|---|
| Bridge | Affects sustain, intonation, and overall sound |
| Tailpiece | Affects tension of the strings and overall sound |
| Tuners | Affects accuracy and stability of the tuning |
6. Price
The price of an electric hollow body guitar can vary greatly, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The price will depend on a number of factors, including the brand, model, and features. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping for a guitar, so you can narrow down your choices.
One of the most important factors that will affect the price of an electric hollow body guitar is the brand. Some brands, such as Gibson and Fender, are known for their high-quality guitars, and their guitars typically command a higher price. Other brands, such as Epiphone and Squier, offer more affordable guitars that are still of good quality.
The model of the guitar will also affect the price. Some models, such as the Gibson Les Paul and the Fender Stratocaster, are more popular than others, and they typically command a higher price. Other models, such as the Epiphone Casino and the Squier Classic Vibe Telecaster, are less popular, and they typically sell for a lower price.
The features of the guitar will also affect the price. Guitars with more features, such as a built-in tuner or a tremolo bar, will typically cost more than guitars with fewer features. It is important to consider the features that you want before you start shopping for a guitar, so you can find a guitar that meets your needs and your budget.
Setting a budget before you start shopping for an electric hollow body guitar is important for narrowing down your choices. By considering the factors that affect the price of a guitar, you can find a guitar that meets your needs and your budget.
| Factor | Effect on Price |
|---|---|
| Brand | Guitars from well-known brands typically cost more than guitars from lesser-known brands. |
| Model | Popular models typically cost more than less popular models. |
| Features | Guitars with more features typically cost more than guitars with fewer features. |
7. Brand
When it comes to electric hollow body guitars, there are a few brands that stand out from the rest. Gibson, Fender, Gretsch, and Epiphone are all well-known and respected brands that offer a wide range of hollow body guitars to choose from. Each brand has its own unique sound and style, so it is important to do your research before you make a purchase.
- Gibson: Gibson is one of the most iconic guitar brands in the world. They are known for their high-quality guitars, which are often used by professional musicians. Gibson hollow body guitars are known for their warm, rich sound. Some of the most popular Gibson hollow body guitars include the ES-335, the ES-175, and the L-5.
- Fender: Fender is another iconic guitar brand that is known for its high-quality guitars. Fender hollow body guitars are known for their bright, twangy sound. Some of the most popular Fender hollow body guitars include the Telecaster Thinline, the Starcaster, and the Jazzmaster.
- Gretsch: Gretsch is a guitar brand that is known for its unique sound and style. Gretsch hollow body guitars are known for their warm, mellow sound. Some of the most popular Gretsch hollow body guitars include the White Falcon, the Duo Jet, and the Streamliner.
- Epiphone: Epiphone is a guitar brand that is known
for its affordable guitars. Epiphone hollow body guitars are a great option for players who are on a budget. Epiphone hollow body guitars offer a similar sound and style to Gibson hollow body guitars, but at a more affordable price. Some of the most popular Epiphone hollow body guitars include the Casino, the Sheraton, and the Riviera.
Ultimately, the best way to choose an electric hollow body guitar is to try out different models and see what sounds and feels best to you. However, by doing some research on the different brands, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect guitar for your needs.
8. Model
When it comes to electric hollow body guitars, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Different models are designed for different playing styles and genres. It is important to compare the different models before you make a purchase, so you can find the guitar that is right for you.
- Body Shape: The body shape of an electric hollow body guitar will affect its sound and resonance. Single-cutaway guitars have a brighter, more twangy sound than double-cutaway guitars, which have a warmer, more mellow sound. Semi-hollow body guitars have a more balanced sound that is well-suited for a variety of genres.
- Wood Type: The type of wood used in the construction of an electric hollow body guitar will also affect its sound. Maple is a bright, resonant wood that produces a clear, articulate sound. Mahogany is a warmer, darker wood that produces a more mellow sound. Spruce is a lightweight wood that produces a bright, airy sound.
- Pickups: The pickups on an electric hollow body guitar will also affect its sound. Humbuckers produce a thicker, more powerful sound, while single-coils produce a brighter, more twangy sound. It is important to choose the right pickups for your playing style.
- Electronics: The electronics on an electric hollow body guitar include the volume and tone controls, as well as the pickup selector switch. The electronics will affect the sound of the guitar, and it is important to choose the right electronics for your playing style.
By comparing the different models of electric hollow body guitars, you can find the guitar that is right for your playing style and genre. With so many different models to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect guitar for your needs.
9. Features
When choosing the best electric hollow body guitar for your needs, it is important to consider the features that are important to you. Some of the most common features available on electric hollow body guitars include:
- Built-in tuner: A built-in tuner is a convenient feature that allows you to tune your guitar quickly and easily. This is especially useful for beginners or for players who are always on the go.
- Tremolo arm: A tremolo arm is a lever that allows you to create vibrato effects by bending the strings. This is a popular feature for players who want to add some extra expression to their playing.
- Coil-splitting switch: A coil-splitting switch allows you to switch between humbucker and single-coil pickups. This gives you a wider range of tonal options, so you can find the perfect sound for any genre.
In addition to these common features, there are many other features that you may want to consider when choosing an electric hollow body guitar. These features can include:
- Cutaway: A cutaway in the body of the guitar allows you to reach the higher frets more easily. This is a good feature for players who like to play lead guitar.
- Binding: Binding is a decorative strip of material that is glued to the edges of the body and neck. It adds a touch of style to the guitar and can also help to protect it from damage.
- Inlays: Inlays are decorative designs that are set into the fretboard. They can add a unique look to the guitar and can also help you to identify the different frets.
The best electric hollow body guitar for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. By considering the features that are important to you, you can find the perfect guitar to help you achieve your musical goals.
Table: Features of Electric Hollow Body Guitars
| Feature | Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in tuner | Allows you to tune your guitar quickly and easily. | Convenience, especially for beginners or players who are always on the go. |
| Tremolo arm | Allows you to create vibrato effects by bending the strings. | Expression, especially for players who want to add some extra expression to their playing. |
| Coil-splitting switch | Allows you to switch between humbucker and single-coil pickups. | Tonal options, so you can find the perfect sound for any genre. |
| Cutaway | Allows you to reach the higher frets more easily. | Playability, especially for players who like to play lead guitar. |
| Binding | Adds a touch of style to the guitar and can also help to protect it from damage. | Aesthetics and protection. |
| Inlays | Adds a unique look to the guitar and can also help you to identify the different frets. | Aesthetics and functionality. |
10. Sound
The sound of an electric hollow body guitar is one of its most distinctive features. The hollow body design gives these guitars a warm, resonant sound that is perfect for a variety of genres, from jazz to blues to rock. The versatility of electric hollow body guitars makes them a great choice for players who want a guitar that can handle a wide range of musical styles.
- Warmth: The hollow body design of electric hollow body guitars gives them a warm, mellow sound that is perfect for jazz and blues. The warm sound of these guitars is also well-suited for rock and pop music, as it can add a touch of richness and depth to the overall sound.
- Resonance: The hollow body design of electric hollow body guitars also gives them a lot of resonance. This means that these guitars can sustain notes for a long time, which is perfect for creating lush, atmospheric soundscapes. The resonance of electric hollow body guitars also makes them a good choice for playing fingerstyle guitar, as it allows the notes to ring out clearly and distinctly.
- Versatility: Electric hollow body guitars are versatile instruments that can be used for a wide range of genres. The warm, resonant sound of these guitars is well-suited for jazz, blues, and rock music. However, electric hollow body guitars can also be used for other genres, such as pop, country, and even metal. The versatility of electric hollow body guitars makes them a great choice for players who want a guitar that can handle a variety of musical styles.
The sound of an electric hollow body guitar is one of its most important features. The warm, resonant sound of these guitars is per
fect for a variety of genres, from jazz to blues to rock. The versatility of electric hollow body guitars makes them a great choice for players who want a guitar that can handle a wide range of musical styles.
Playability
The playability of an electric hollow body guitar is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a guitar. Electric hollow body guitars are relatively easy to play, making them a good choice for beginners. They are also lightweight and comfortable to play for long periods of time, which is important for both beginners and experienced players alike.
There are several reasons why electric hollow body guitars are so easy to play. First, the hollow body design makes the guitar lighter than a solid body guitar. This makes it easier to hold and play for long periods of time. Second, the shorter scale length of electric hollow body guitars makes them easier to reach the frets. This is especially beneficial for beginners who may have smaller hands.
In addition to being easy to play, electric hollow body guitars are also very versatile. They can be used for a wide range of genres, from jazz to blues to rock. This makes them a great choice for players who want a guitar that can handle a variety of musical styles.
If you are looking for an electric guitar that is easy to play, lightweight, and comfortable, then an electric hollow body guitar is a great option. Here are a few examples of some of the best electric hollow body guitars on the market:
- Gibson ES-335
- Fender Telecaster Thinline
- Gretsch White Falcon
- Epiphone Casino
- Ibanez Artcore
These are just a few of the many great electric hollow body guitars on the market. With so many different options to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect guitar for your needs.
| Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Easy to play | Makes the guitar a good choice for beginners |
| Lightweight | Makes the guitar easy to hold and play for long periods of time |
| Comfortable to play | Makes the guitar a good choice for both beginners and experienced players |
| Versatile | Can be used for a wide range of genres |
11. Versatility
The versatility of electric hollow body guitars is one of their most appealing features. These guitars can be used for a wide range of genres, from jazz to blues to rock. This makes them a great choice for players who want a guitar that can handle a variety of musical styles.
- Jazz: Electric hollow body guitars are a popular choice for jazz players. The warm, resonant sound of these guitars is perfect for jazz ballads and solos. Some of the most famous jazz guitarists, such as Django Reinhardt and Wes Montgomery, played electric hollow body guitars.
- Blues: Electric hollow body guitars are also a good choice for blues players. The warm, mellow sound of these guitars is perfect for blues rhythms and solos. Some of the most famous blues guitarists, such as B.B. King and Albert King, played electric hollow body guitars.
- Rock: Electric hollow body guitars can also be used for rock music. The bright, twangy sound of these guitars is perfect for rock rhythms and solos. Some of the most famous rock guitarists, such as Keith Richards and Alex Lifeson, have played electric hollow body guitars.
In addition to their versatility, electric hollow body guitars are also a good choice for players who want a guitar that can handle both clean and distorted sounds. The warm, resonant sound of these guitars is perfect for clean tones, while the bright, twangy sound of these guitars is perfect for distorted tones. This makes electric hollow body guitars a great choice for players who want a guitar that can handle a variety of musical styles.
If you are looking for an electric guitar that is versatile and can handle a variety of musical styles, then an electric hollow body guitar is a great option.
FAQs about the Best Electric Hollow Body Guitars
This section provides answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the best electric hollow body guitars. These FAQs cover a range of topics, from the benefits of electric hollow body guitars to the factors to consider when choosing one.
Question 1: What are the benefits of playing an electric hollow body guitar?
Electric hollow body guitars offer several benefits over solid body guitars. They produce a warmer, more resonant sound that is ideal for jazz, blues, and classic rock. They are also lighter and more comfortable to play for long periods of time, making them a good choice for beginners and experienced players alike.
Question 2: What are the key factors to consider when choosing an electric hollow body guitar?
When choosing an electric hollow body guitar, there are several key factors to consider, including the body shape, construction, pickups, and electronics. The body shape will affect the guitar’s sound and resonance, while the construction will affect its durability and playability. The pickups will determine the guitar’s overall sound, and the electronics will allow you to control the guitar’s volume and tone.
Question 3: What are the different types of electric hollow body guitars?
There are three main types of electric hollow body guitars: single-cutaway, double-cutaway, and semi-hollow body. Single-cutaway guitars have a single cutaway on the upper bout, which provides easier access to the higher frets. Double-cutaway guitars have two cutaways, one on the upper bout and one on the lower bout, which provides even easier access to the higher frets. Semi-hollow body guitars have a solid center block running through the body, which helps to reduce feedback and increase sustain.
Question 4: What are the best brands of electric hollow body guitars?
There are many great brands of electric hollow body guitars on the market, including Gibson, Fender, Gretsch, and Epiphone. Gibson is known for its high-quality guitars, which are often used by professional musicians. Fender is another iconic guitar brand that is known for its high-quality guitars. Gretsch is a guitar brand that is known for its unique sound and style. Epiphone is a guitar brand that is known for its affordable guitars.
Question 5: How do I care for my electric hollow body guitar?
To care for your electric hollow body guitar, it is important to keep it clean and dry. You should wipe it down with a soft cloth after each use to remove any dirt or fingerprints. You should also avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity. When storing your guitar, you should keep it in a case to protect it from dust and damage.
Question 6: Where can I learn more about electric hollow body guitars?
There are many resources available to learn more about electric hollow body guitars. You can find information online, in books, and in magazines. You can also talk to guitar teachers or other guitar players to get their advice.
We hope this FAQ section has been helpful in answering your questions about the best electric hollow body guitars. If you have any further questions, please feel free t
o contact us.
Moving on to the Next Section: Choosing the Right Electric Hollow Body Guitar
Tips for Choosing the Best Electric Hollow Body Guitar
Choosing the best electric hollow body guitar can be a daunting task, but by following these tips, you can find the perfect guitar for your needs.
Tip 1: Consider your playing style.
The type of music you play will have a big impact on the type of electric hollow body guitar you choose. If you play jazz or blues, you’ll want a guitar with a warm, mellow sound. If you play rock or metal, you’ll want a guitar with a brighter, more aggressive sound.
Tip 2: Consider your budget.
Electric hollow body guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend.
Tip 3: Try out different guitars before you buy.
The best way to find the right electric hollow body guitar for you is to try out different models and see what sounds and feels best. Take your time and play around with different guitars until you find one that you love.
Tip 4: Read reviews from other guitarists.
Once you’ve tried out a few different guitars, it’s a good idea to read reviews from other guitarists to see what they have to say about the guitars you’re considering. This can help you make an informed decision about which guitar to buy.
Tip 5: Consider the guitar’s features.
Electric hollow body guitars come with a variety of features, such as different types of pickups, bridges, and tailpieces. The features you choose will affect the sound and playability of the guitar, so it’s important to consider them carefully.
Tip 6: Buy from a reputable dealer.
When you’re ready to buy an electric hollow body guitar, it’s important to buy from a reputable dealer. This will ensure that you get a high-quality guitar that will last for years to come.
Tip 7: Take care of your guitar.
Once you’ve purchased your electric hollow body guitar, it’s important to take care of it. This includes cleaning it regularly, restringing it when necessary, and storing it in a cool, dry place.
By following these tips, you can choose the best electric hollow body guitar for your needs and enjoy it for years to come.
Summary of Key Takeaways:
- Consider your playing style, budget, and needs when choosing an electric hollow body guitar.
- Try out different guitars before you buy to find the one that sounds and feels best.
- Read reviews from other guitarists to get their insights on different guitars.
- Consider the guitar’s features, such as the type of pickups, bridge, and tailpiece.
- Buy from a reputable dealer to ensure that you get a high-quality guitar.
- Take care of your guitar to keep it in good condition for years to come.
Conclusion:
Choosing the best electric hollow body guitar can be a rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can find the perfect guitar for your needs and enjoy it for years to come.
Conclusion
The best electric hollow body guitar for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your playing style, budget, and the features that are important to you. By following the tips in this guide, you can find the perfect guitar to help you achieve your musical goals.
Electric hollow body guitars are versatile instruments that can be used for a wide range of genres. They offer a warm, resonant sound that is perfect for jazz, blues, and rock. If you are looking for a guitar that is easy to play, lightweight, and comfortable, then an electric hollow body guitar is a great option. With so many different models to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect guitar for your needs.
