Are you in search of a good hollow body electric guitar? Hollow body guitars are prized by guitarists for their warm, resonant tone and their ability to create feedback at high volumes. They are often used in jazz, blues, and rock music. Finding the right hollow body electric guitar for your needs can be tricky, but we’re here to assist.
Editor’s Note:Choosing the right hollow body electric guitar is important because it can greatly impact your playing style and sound. With so many different models and brands on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. Our team did hours of research, compared customer reviews, and analyzed the top-rated hollow body electric guitars. We put together this guide to help you make the right decision.
We’ve put together a list of the best hollow body electric guitars on the market today. We’ll also provide you with some tips on how to choose the right guitar for your needs.
Key Differences or Key Takeaways
| Feature | Good Hollow Body Electric Guitar |
|---|---|
| Body Type | Hollow |
| Tone | Warm, resonant |
| Feedback | High volumes |
| Genres | Jazz, blues, rock |
Main Article Topics
- The different types of hollow body electric guitars
- The pros and cons of hollow body electric guitars
- How to choose the right hollow body electric guitar for your needs
- Reviews of the best hollow body electric guitars on the market
1. Body Type
Hollow body guitars have a larger body than solid body guitars, which gives them a warmer, more resonant tone. This is because the hollow body allows the sound waves to resonate more freely, creating a richer, more complex sound. Hollow body guitars are also known for their ability to create feedback at high volumes, which can be a desirable effect for some guitarists.
- Tonal Characteristics: Hollow body guitars are prized for their warm, resonant tone. The hollow body allows the sound waves to resonate more freely, creating a richer, more complex sound.
- Feedback: Hollow body guitars are also known for their ability to create feedback at high volumes. This can be a desirable effect for some guitarists, as it can add sustain and create a more atmospheric sound.
- Construction: Hollow body guitars can be made from laminated or solid wood. Laminated guitars are more affordable, while solid wood guitars have a richer, more resonant tone.
- Weight: Hollow body guitars are typically lighter than solid body guitars, making them more comfortable to play for long periods of time.
Overall, the hollow body design is a key factor in what makes a good hollow body electric guitar. The hollow body gives these guitars their characteristic warm, resonant tone and feedback-prone nature. When choosing a hollow body electric guitar, it is important to consider the type of music you want to play and the sound you are trying to achieve.
2. Tone
The warm, resonant tone of a good hollow body electric guitar is one of its most distinctive characteristics. This tone is created by the guitar’s hollow body, which allows the sound waves to resonate more freely. The result is a richer, more complex sound that is perfect for jazz, blues, and rock music.
The warm, resonant tone of a hollow body electric guitar is also due to the type of wood used in its construction. Hollow body guitars are typically made from mahogany, maple, or spruce. These woods are known for their warm, mellow sound. The thickness of the body and the size of the sound holes also affect the tone of the guitar.
The warm, resonant tone of a hollow body electric guitar is a key factor in its popularity. This tone is perfect for guitarists who want a rich, full sound. Hollow body guitars are also known for their ability to create feedback at high volumes, which can be a desirable effect for some guitarists.
Here are some examples of good hollow body electric guitars with a warm, resonant tone:
These guitars are all known for their warm, resonant tone and their ability to create feedback at high volumes. If you are looking for a good hollow body electric guitar, these are some of the best options available.
Key Insights:
- The warm, resonant tone of a good hollow body electric guitar is due to its hollow body and the type of wood used in its construction.
- The warm, resonant tone of a hollow body electric guitar is perfect for jazz, blues, and rock music.
- Hollow body guitars are also known for their ability to create feedback at high volumes, which can be a desirable effect for some guitarists.
3. Feedback
Hollow body electric guitars are known for their ability to create feedback at high volumes. This is because the hollow body allows the sound waves to resonate more freely, which can create a feedback loop between the guitar and the amplifier. This feedback can be a desirable effect for some guitarists, as it can add sustain and create a more atmospheric sound. However, it can also be undesirable, as it can be difficult to control and can lead to unwanted noise.
- Controlled Feedback: When feedback is controlled, it can be used to create a variety of interesting and expressive sounds. For example, guitarists can use feedback to create sustained notes, create a sense of space, or add a layer of distortion to their sound.
- Uncontrolled Feedback: When feedback is uncontrolled, it can be a nuisance. It can be difficult to control and can lead to unwanted noise. Uncontrolled feedback can also damage the guitar or the amplifier.
- Construction: The construction of the guitar can affect the amount of feedback it produces. Guitars with a larger body and a thinner top will produce more feedback than guitars with a smaller body and a thicker top.
- Pickups: The type of pickups used in the guitar can also affect the amount of feedback it produces. Single-coil pickups produce more feedback than humbucking pickups.
Guitarists who are interested in using feedback in their playing should experiment with different guitars and amplifiers to find the combination that produces the desired sound. It is also important to
learn how to control feedback, so that it can be used as a creative tool rather than a nuisance.
4. Genres
Hollow body electric guitars are the instrument of choice for many jazz, blues, and rock guitarists. This is because the hollow body gives these guitars a warm, resonant tone that is perfect for these genres. Jazz guitarists often use hollow body guitars for their clean, articulate sound, while blues guitarists appreciate the warm, mellow tone that hollow body guitars produce. Rock guitarists often use hollow body guitars for their ability to create feedback at high volumes, which can be a desirable effect for some guitarists.
Here are some examples of famous jazz, blues, and rock guitarists who have used hollow body electric guitars:
| Genre | Guitarist | Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Jazz | Django Reinhardt | Selmer Maccaferri |
| Blues | B.B. King | Gibson ES-335 |
| Rock | Keith Richards | Fender Telecaster Thinline |
As you can see, hollow body electric guitars are a popular choice for guitarists in a variety of genres. This is because they offer a warm, resonant tone that is perfect for jazz, blues, and rock music.
5. Construction
The construction of a hollow body electric guitar plays a significant role in determining its overall sound and quality. Hollow body guitars can be made from laminated or solid wood, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages.
- Laminated wood is made up of several thin layers of wood that are glued together. This type of construction is less expensive than solid wood, and it can produce a guitar with a more consistent sound. Laminated wood guitars are also less likely to warp or crack over time.
- Solid wood is made from a single piece of wood. This type of construction is more expensive than laminated wood, but it can produce a guitar with a richer, more resonant sound. Solid wood guitars are also more likely to develop a unique character and tone over time.
Ultimately, the choice between laminated and solid wood is a matter of personal preference. If you are looking for a guitar with a consistent sound and a lower price point, then a laminated wood guitar may be a good option. If you are looking for a guitar with a richer, more resonant sound and are willing to pay a higher price, then a solid wood guitar may be a better choice.
6. Pickups
The type of pickups used in a hollow body electric guitar has a significant impact on its sound. Single-coil pickups are known for their bright, twangy sound, while humbucking pickups are known for their warmer, more powerful sound. The choice between single-coil and humbucking pickups is ultimately a matter of personal preference, but there are some general guidelines that can help you make the right choice for your needs.
Single-coil pickups are typically used in guitars that are designed for clean, articulate sounds, such as jazz and country guitars. They are also popular in guitars that are used for blues and rock music, as they can produce a wide range of tones from clean to overdriven. Humbucking pickups are typically used in guitars that are designed for heavier sounds, such as rock and metal guitars. They are also popular in guitars that are used for jazz and blues music, as they can produce a warm, smooth sound with less noise than single-coil pickups.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between single-coil and humbucking pickups:
| Characteristic | Single-coil | Humbucking |
|---|---|---|
| Tone | Bright, twangy | Warm, powerful |
| Noise | More noise | Less noise |
| Genres | Jazz, country, blues, rock | Rock, metal, jazz, blues |
Ultimately, the best way to choose between single-coil and humbucking pickups is to try out different guitars and see what sounds best to you. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best choice for you will depend on your personal preferences and playing style.
7. Bridge
The type of bridge used on a hollow body electric guitar can have a significant impact on its sound, playability, and overall feel. There are two main types of bridges: fixed bridges and floating bridges.
- Fixed bridges
Fixed bridges are mounted directly to the body of the guitar and do not allow the player to adjust the intonation or action of the strings. This type of bridge is typically found on guitars that are designed for jazz and blues music, as it provides a more stable and consistent sound.
Some examples of guitars with fixed bridges include the Gibson ES-335, the Fender Telecaster Thinline, and the Gretsch White Falcon.
- Floating bridges
Floating bridges are not mounted directly to the body of the guitar and allow the player to adjust the intonation and action of the strings. This type of bridge is typically found on guitars that are designed for rock and metal music, as it allows for a wider range of sounds and playing styles.
Some examples of guitars with floating bridges include the Floyd Rose, the Kahler, and the Wilkinson.
Ultimately, the choice between a fixed bridge and a floating bridge is a matter of personal preference. However, it is important to consider the type of music you play and the sound you are trying to achieve when making your decision.
8. Tailpiece
The tailpiece is an important part of a hollow body electric guitar, as it affects the guitar’s sustain, resonance, and overall sound. There are two main types of tailpieces: stopbar tailpieces and Bigsby tailpieces.
Stopbar tailpieces are the more traditional type of tailpiece, and they are typically found on guitars that are designed for jazz and blues music. Stopbar tailpieces are mounted directly to the body of the guitar, and they provide a solid and stable foundation for the strings. This results in a guitar with a more consistent and predictable sound.
Bigsby tailpieces are a type of vibrato tailpiece, and they are typically found on guitars that are designed for rock and country music. Bigsby tailpieces are mounted to the body of the guitar with a spring, and they allow the player to add vibrato to their playing by moving the tailpiece back and forth. This results in a guitar with a more expressive and dynamic sound.
The choice between a stopbar tailpiece and a Bigsby tailpiece is ultimately a matter of personal preference. However, it is important to consider the type of music you play an
d the sound you are trying to achieve when making your decision.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between stopbar tailpieces and Bigsby tailpieces:
| Characteristic | Stopbar Tailpiece | Bigsby Tailpiece |
|---|---|---|
| Mounting | Mounted directly to the body of the guitar | Mounted to the body of the guitar with a spring |
| Vibrato | No vibrato | Vibrato |
| Sound | Consistent and predictable | Expressive and dynamic |
9. Hardware
The hardware on a hollow body electric guitar, such as the bridge, tailpiece, and tuners, can affect the guitar’s overall sound, appearance, and playability. Two common types of hardware are gold and nickel.
- Gold hardware
Gold hardware is a popular choice for hollow body electric guitars because it is visually appealing and complements the warm, vintage tone of many of these guitars. Gold hardware is also relatively durable and corrosion-resistant, making it a good choice for guitars that are played frequently.
- Nickel hardware
Nickel hardware is another popular choice for hollow body electric guitars. Nickel hardware is less expensive than gold hardware, and it has a more modern look. Nickel hardware is also more durable than gold hardware, making it a good choice for guitars that are played hard.
Ultimately, the choice between gold and nickel hardware is a matter of personal preference. However, it is important to consider the type of music you play and the sound you are trying to achieve when making your decision.
10. Price
When it comes to hollow body electric guitars, there is a wide range of prices to choose from. Affordable hollow body electric guitars can be found for around $500, while high-end models can cost upwards of $5,000. The price of a hollow body electric guitar will depend on a number of factors, including the brand, the materials used, the construction, and the features.
- Brand
The brand of a hollow body electric guitar can have a significant impact on its price. Guitars from well-known brands, such as Gibson and Fender, will typically cost more than guitars from lesser-known brands. This is because well-known brands have a reputation for producing high-quality instruments.
- Materials
The materials used to construct a hollow body electric guitar can also affect its price. Guitars made from solid wood, such as mahogany and maple, will typically cost more than guitars made from laminated wood. This is because solid wood is more expensive and produces a better sound.
- Construction
The construction of a hollow body electric guitar can also affect its price. Guitars with a more complex construction, such as those with carved tops, will typically cost more than guitars with a simpler construction. This is because more complex construction requires more time and skill to build.
- Features
The features of a hollow body electric guitar can also affect its price. Guitars with more features, such as multiple pickups and a tremolo bridge, will typically cost more than guitars with fewer features. This is because more features add to the cost of production.
Ultimately, the price of a hollow body electric guitar is a reflection of its quality. While there are some great affordable hollow body electric guitars on the market, it is important to remember that you get what you pay for. If you are serious about playing the guitar, it is worth investing in a high-quality instrument that will last for many years to come.
FAQs about good hollow body electric guitars
This section answers some of the most frequently asked questions about good hollow body electric guitars. These questions address common concerns or misconceptions, providing clear and informative answers to help you make an informed decision when choosing a hollow body electric guitar.
Question 1: Are hollow body electric guitars good for beginners?
Hollow body electric guitars can be a great choice for beginners because they are typically lighter and more comfortable to play than solid body guitars. They also produce a warmer, more resonant sound that is well-suited for many genres of music. However, hollow body guitars can be more prone to feedback than solid body guitars, so it is important to be aware of this if you are considering purchasing one.
Question 2: What are the best hollow body electric guitars for jazz?
Some of the best hollow body electric guitars for jazz include the Gibson ES-335, the Fender Telecaster Thinline, and the Gretsch White Falcon. These guitars are all known for their warm, resonant sound and their ability to produce a wide range of tones. They are also relatively easy to play, making them a good choice for beginners and experienced players alike.
Question 3: What are the best hollow body electric guitars for blues?
Some of the best hollow body electric guitars for blues include the Gibson ES-335, the Fender Telecaster Thinline, and the Epiphone Casino. These guitars are all known for their warm, mellow sound and their ability to produce a variety of blues tones. They are also relatively easy to play, making them a good choice for beginners and experienced players alike.
Question 4: What are the best hollow body electric guitars for rock?
Some of the best hollow body electric guitars for rock include the Gibson ES-335, the Fender Telecaster Thinline, and the Gretsch White Falcon. These guitars are all known for their ability to produce a wide range of tones, from clean to overdriven. They are also relatively easy to play, making them a good choice for beginners and experienced players alike.
Question 5: How do I choose the right hollow body electric guitar for me?
When choosing a hollow body electric guitar, it is important to consider your playing style, the genre of music you play, and your budget. If you are a beginner, you may want to consider a guitar with a smaller body and a single pickup. If you are an experienced player, you may want to consider a guitar with a larger body and multiple pickups. It is also important to try out different guitars before you make a decision to find one that feels comfortable and sounds good to you.
Question 6: How do I care for my hollow body electric guitar?
To care for your hollow body electric guitar, it is important to keep it clean and dry. You should also avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity. When you are not playing your guitar, it is a good idea to store it in a case to protect it from dust and damage.
We hope this FAQ section has been helpful in answering your questions about good hollow body electric guitars. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Summary: Hollow body electric guitars are a great choice for many guitarists, from beginners to experienced players. They offer a warm, resonant sound that is well-suited for a variety of genres of music. When choosing a hollow body electric guitar, it is import
ant to consider your playing style, the genre of music you play, and your budget. It is also important to try out different guitars before you make a decision to find one that feels comfortable and sounds good to you.
Transition to the next article section: Now that you have learned more about good hollow body electric guitars, you may be interested in learning more about the different types of hollow body guitars available or how to choose the right hollow body guitar for your needs. You can find more information on these topics in the following sections.
Tips for Choosing a Good Hollow Body Electric Guitar
Hollow body electric guitars are a great choice for many guitarists, but choosing the right one can be a challenge. Here are a few tips to help you make the best decision for your needs:
Tip 1: Consider your playing style. Hollow body guitars are well-suited for a variety of genres, but they are particularly popular for jazz, blues, and rock. If you play a lot of lead guitar, you may want to choose a guitar with a brighter sound. If you play a lot of rhythm guitar, you may want to choose a guitar with a warmer sound.
Tip 2: Consider the type of music you play. Hollow body guitars are versatile instruments, but they are not equally well-suited for all genres of music. If you play a lot of heavy metal or hard rock, you may want to choose a guitar with a more aggressive sound. If you play a lot of jazz or acoustic music, you may want to choose a guitar with a more mellow sound.
Tip 3: Consider your budget. Hollow body guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend. If you are on a tight budget, there are a number of affordable hollow body guitars available. If you are willing to spend more money, you can get a guitar with better materials and construction.
Tip 4: Try out different guitars before you buy one. The best way to choose a hollow body guitar is to try out different models and see which one feels and sounds the best to you. Bring your amp to the store with you so that you can hear how the guitar sounds through your own equipment. If possible, try out the guitar in a band setting to get a better idea of how it will sound in a live situation.
Tip 5: Get a professional setup. Once you have chosen a hollow body guitar, it is important to get it set up by a professional. A good setup will ensure that the guitar plays its best and sounds its best. A professional setup will typically include adjusting the intonation, action, and truss rod.
Summary: Choosing the right hollow body electric guitar can be a challenge, but it is important to take your time and consider your needs carefully. By following these tips, you can find a guitar that will help you achieve your musical goals.
Transition to the article’s conclusion: Now that you have learned how to choose a good hollow body electric guitar, you may be interested in learning more about the different types of hollow body guitars available or how to care for your hollow body guitar. You can find more information on these topics in the following sections.
Conclusion
In exploring the world of “good hollow body electric guitars,” we’ve uncovered their unique sonic qualities, versatility across genres, and the importance of construction and design in achieving their characteristic sound. These guitars have played a pivotal role in shaping the tapestry of popular music, from jazz to blues to rock, and continue to inspire guitarists worldwide.
As you embark on your musical journey, whether as a seasoned player or an aspiring enthusiast, choosing the right hollow body electric guitar is a crucial decision. By considering the factors outlined in this article, you’ll be well-equipped to find an instrument that aligns with your playing style, musical aspirations, and sonic preferences. Remember, a good hollow body electric guitar is not merely a tool but a conduit for your creativity, allowing you to express yourself fully and connect with audiences on a deeper level.
