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10 Best Hollow Body Electric Guitars 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

PRS Paul Reed Smith 6 String SE Hollowbody II, Faded Blue Burst with Case, Right (105537:PB)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,138
Pickups
Scale Length

Most important from
15 reviews

Pickups
Although the piezo volume may need adjustment, it produces a very likeable 'acoustic' tone, especially through an acoustic amp or DI into the PA.
Scale Length
Plays like a dream with a comfortable 24.75 scale and 9.5 radius.

The PRS Paul Reed Smith 6 String SE Hollowbody II is a beautifully crafted hollow-body electric guitar that combines the power and stability of a solid-body guitar. Its Faded Blue Burst finish and PRS trademark bird inlays make it visually striking. The guitar features a figured maple top and back with mahogany sides, providing a rich and resonant tone. The mahogany neck and ebony fretboard offer a smooth playing experience, while the 25-inch scale length is comfortable for most players.

The 58/15 'S' pickups deliver clear and balanced sound, enhancing both the musicality and versatility of the instrument. The stop-tail bridge adds to the stability and sustain of the guitar. The guitar comes with a PRS hard shell case, which is a nice addition for protection and portability. One potential drawback is the weight, as the guitar weighs 16 pounds, which might be on the heavier side for some players. However, the solid construction and quality materials used justify the weight.

This guitar would be an excellent choice for both intermediate and advanced players looking for a reliable and high-quality hollow-body electric guitar.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,138
Pickups
Scale Length

Most important from
15 reviews

Pickups
Although the piezo volume may need adjustment, it produces a very likeable 'acoustic' tone, especially through an acoustic amp or DI into the PA.
Scale Length
Plays like a dream with a comfortable 24.75 scale and 9.5 radius.
#2

Gretsch G5422TG Electromatic 6-String Right-Handed Classic Double-Cut Hollowbody Electric Guitar with Bigsby, Laurel Fingerboard and Maple Neck (Snowcrest White)

Rating
10.0
Body Size and Shape
Pickups

Most important from
13 reviews

Body Size and Shape
The hollow body design allows for playing without amplification, perfect for not disturbing others.
Pickups
The pickup selector switch can be problematic, affecting the bridge pickup, but the overall sound remains beautiful and versatile.

The Gretsch G5422TG Electromatic is a right-handed, classic double-cut hollow-body electric guitar, perfect for musicians seeking vintage aesthetics and rich sound. Its maple body and neck contribute to its light weight while providing a bright tone, making it a joy to play. The FT-5E Filter'Tron pickups are a standout feature, delivering a powerful and clear sound that suits various music styles, from rock to jazz. With the new trestle block bracing, the guitar minimizes feedback, which is especially beneficial during loud performances, allowing for clean and focused sound production.

The comfortable ‘C’-shaped neck profile and laurel fingerboard enhance playability, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned players alike. The upgraded control layout offers versatility with each pickup's volume control and master tone, giving musicians the ability to shape their sound effectively.

This Gretsch model is a great fit for players who appreciate classic design and sound, and want a hollow-body guitar that is versatile enough for various genres. It stands out in the market but may not be the best option for everyone due to its weight and cost.

Rating
10.0
Body Size and Shape
Pickups

Most important from
13 reviews

Body Size and Shape
The hollow body design allows for playing without amplification, perfect for not disturbing others.
Pickups
The pickup selector switch can be problematic, affecting the bridge pickup, but the overall sound remains beautiful and versatile.
#3

Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Classic Hollowbody Single-cut Electric Guitar with Bigsby - Azure Metallic

Rating
10.0
Bridge Type

Most important from
4 reviews

Bridge Type
After a few hours of playtime, the initial tuning issues with the Bigsby vibrato disappeared.

The Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Classic Hollowbody Electric Guitar in Azure Metallic is a beautiful instrument designed for right-handed players. It features a single-cut hollowbody design, which contributes to its resonant and warm tone. The maple wood used for the top, body, and neck provides a robust and bright sound that is ideal for various music styles. The laurel wood fingerboard adds a smooth and comfortable playing experience.

With two humbucking pickups, this guitar delivers a powerful and rich sound, suitable for rock, jazz, and blues genres. The Bigsby B60 vibrato bridge allows for expressive pitch bending, enhancing the playability for creative musicians. However, the guitar's 11-pound weight might be cumbersome for some players during extended sessions.

Additionally, while the maple and laurel woods are high-quality materials, some musicians might prefer other wood types for specific tonal qualities. The guitar generally follows Gretsch’s standard comfortable and playable designs, making it a solid choice for both intermediate and experienced players looking for a versatile and stylish instrument.

Rating
10.0
Bridge Type

Most important from
4 reviews

Bridge Type
After a few hours of playtime, the initial tuning issues with the Bigsby vibrato disappeared.

Buying Guide for the Best Hollow Body Electric Guitars

Choosing the right hollow-body electric guitar can be a rewarding experience, especially if you know what to look for. Hollow-body electric guitars are known for their warm, resonant tones and are often favored by jazz, blues, and rockabilly musicians. When selecting a hollow-body electric guitar, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you find the best fit for your playing style and musical needs. Here are some essential specs to consider and how to navigate them.
Body Size and ShapeThe body size and shape of a hollow-body electric guitar affect its comfort, playability, and sound. Larger bodies typically produce a fuller, more resonant tone, while smaller bodies are easier to handle and may have a brighter sound. If you prefer a rich, warm tone and don't mind a larger instrument, a full-sized hollow-body might be ideal. Conversely, if you need a more comfortable and portable option, consider a smaller or thinline model.
Wood TypeThe type of wood used in a hollow-body electric guitar influences its tone and resonance. Common woods include maple, mahogany, and spruce. Maple tends to produce a bright, clear sound with good sustain, while mahogany offers a warmer, more mellow tone. Spruce is often used for its balanced tonal qualities. Consider the type of music you play and the sound you prefer when choosing the wood type. For example, jazz players might prefer the warmth of mahogany, while rockabilly musicians might favor the brightness of maple.
PickupsPickups are crucial in shaping the sound of your hollow-body electric guitar. They convert the vibrations of the strings into electrical signals. There are two main types: single-coil and humbucker. Single-coil pickups produce a bright, clear tone with a bit of a bite, while humbuckers offer a thicker, warmer sound with less noise. If you play jazz or blues, you might prefer the smooth, rich tones of humbuckers. For rockabilly or country, single-coil pickups might be more suitable.
Neck ProfileThe neck profile refers to the shape and thickness of the guitar's neck, which affects playability and comfort. Common profiles include C-shaped, U-shaped, and V-shaped. A C-shaped neck is generally comfortable for most players and is a good all-around choice. U-shaped necks are thicker and may be preferred by players with larger hands or those who play rhythm guitar. V-shaped necks have a distinct feel and are often favored by lead guitarists. Consider your hand size and playing style when choosing a neck profile.
Scale LengthScale length is the distance between the nut and the bridge of the guitar. It affects the tension of the strings and the overall feel of the instrument. Common scale lengths for hollow-body electric guitars range from 24.75 inches to 25.5 inches. A shorter scale length (24.75 inches) results in lower string tension, making it easier to bend notes and play with a lighter touch. A longer scale length (25.5 inches) provides more tension and a tighter feel, which can be beneficial for clarity and sustain. Choose a scale length that matches your playing style and comfort preferences.
Bridge TypeThe bridge type on a hollow-body electric guitar affects its tuning stability and intonation. Common bridge types include fixed bridges and floating bridges. Fixed bridges, such as tune-o-matic bridges, offer better tuning stability and are easier to set up. Floating bridges, like Bigsby tremolos, allow for pitch bending effects but may require more maintenance and setup. If you prioritize tuning stability and ease of use, a fixed bridge might be the best choice. If you enjoy adding vibrato effects to your playing, consider a floating bridge.

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