Introduction
When it comes to creating authentic country music, the right instrument can make a world of difference. Enter the hollow body electric guitar – a popular choice amongst country musicians for its warm, rich tones and unique sound. If you’re in the market for a hollow body electric guitar, you’ll want to make sure you choose one that suits your style and needs. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 best hollow body electric guitars for country music, as well as the important factors to consider when making your purchase. So, grab your cowboy hat and let’s get started!
What are Hollow Body Electric Guitars?
Hollow body electric guitars are a type of guitar that features a hollow body, allowing for a greater range of tonal possibilities. Unlike solid body electric guitars that are often associated with rock music, hollow body electric guitars are commonly used in country music.
The design of a hollow body electric guitar includes a sound box, which is what creates the unique sound of the guitar. The sound box is located within the body of the guitar, and it’s what amplifies the sound of the vibrating strings. This amplification creates a warm and full-bodied sound that is perfect for country music.
Hollow body electric guitars come in a variety of sizes and shapes, from smaller models that are great for traveling, to large models that are ideal for professional musicians. They are available in both acoustic-electric and purely electric versions.
It’s important to note that hollow body electric guitars are not the same as semi-hollow body guitars, which have a smaller sound box and are often associated with jazz music. Hollow body electric guitars also differ from acoustic-electric guitars, which have a completely hollow body and are designed to amplify acoustic sounds.
Some renowned country guitarists, like Chet Atkins and Merle Haggard, used hollow body electric guitars in their music. Nowadays, guitar players like Brad Paisley and Keith Urban still use hollow body electric guitars in their live performances.
If you’re looking to get a hollow body electric guitar for country music, there are many factors to consider, such as tone quality, build quality, playability, price, and brand reputation. It’s important to choose a guitar that suits your playing style and personal preferences.
To learn more about hollow body electric guitars and their use in country music, check out our guide to the best hollow body electric guitars for country music or our article on famous country guitarists who use hollow body electric guitars. Additionally, understanding how to properly maintain and care for your hollow body electric guitar is crucial in keeping it in top condition for years to come.
Top 10 Best Hollow Body Electric Guitars for Country Music
When it comes to playing country music, the right instrument can make all the difference. And for many country guitarists, a hollow body electric guitar is the way to go. These guitars have a unique sound that perfectly complements the twangy, blues-inspired sound of country music. But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which one to choose. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top 10 best hollow body electric guitars for country music. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this list will help you find the perfect guitar for your country playing needs. And if you’re not sure what a hollow body electric guitar is or why it’s a good choice for country music, check out our article on hollow body electric guitars for country music.
1. Gretsch G5420T Electromatic
The Gretsch G5420T Electromatic is a great option for any country music enthusiast looking for a warm, resonant sound that can handle both rhythm and lead playing. This guitar has a laminated maple body with a single-cutaway design, giving it a classic look that’s hard to beat. The top features sound post bracing and a pair of Black Top Filter’Tron humbuckers, which deliver a bright and twangy tone that’s perfect for country music.
Specifications:
| Body Shape | Single-Cutaway Hollow Body |
|---|---|
| Top Material | Laminated Maple |
| Back and Side Material | Laminated Maple |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Fingerboard Material | Rosewood |
| Bridge/Tailpiece | Adjusto-Matic Bridge with Bigsby Tailpiece |
| Pickups | 2 x Black Top Filter’Tron Humbuckers |
| Controls | 2 x Volume, 1 x Tone, 3-Way Pickup Selector Switch |
One of the standout features of the Gretsch G5420T Electromatic is its Bigsby B60 vibrato tailpiece, which adds a touch of shimmer and depth to your playing. The Adjusto-Matic bridge is also a nice touch, allowing you to fine-tune the intonation to your liking. The neck has a comfortable U-shaped profile and a medium jumbo fret size, making it easy to play complex chord progressions and leads.
If you’re curious about the difference between semi-hollow and hollow body guitars, check out our in-depth comparison article. You might also be interested in reading about the iconic hollow body electric guitars in country music or the use of modern hollow body electric guitars in country music. Regardless of your interest, the Gretsch G5420T Electromatic is a top-notch option for any country player looking for a classic sound and feel.
2. Epiphone ES-335 Pro
The Epiphone ES-335 Pro is a classic hollow body electric guitar that offers a lot of value for its price. It is designed to emulate the legendary Gibson ES-335, which was introduced in the late 1950s and quickly became a favorite among musicians for its versatility and warm tone.
Features:
– The Epiphone ES-335 Pro features a semi-hollow maple body with a central block of mahogany running down the center. This design helps to reduce feedback and adds more sustain to the guitar’s sound.
– The guitar also has a mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard, 22 medium jumbo frets, and a 12″ radius for comfortable playability.
– It comes equipped with two Alnico Classic PRO humbucking pickups, which are designed to provide a wide range of tonal options from sweet cleans to crunchy overdrives. The pickups can be controlled via the traditional two volume and two tone control knobs as well as a 3-way pickup selector switch.
– The Epiphone ES-335 Pro has a LockTone Tune-O-Matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece, which helps to keep the guitar in tune and provides excellent sustain.
– This guitar has a beautiful gloss finish that showcases the wood’s natural grain and comes equipped with high-quality hardware.
Why it’s great for country music:
The Epiphone ES-335 Pro is a versatile guitar that can handle a wide range of musical styles, including country music. It has a warm and rich tone that is perfect for playing clean rhythms and smooth leads. The guitar’s semi-hollow body also reduces feedback, which is particularly helpful when playing at higher volumes or with overdrive.
Price and value:
Compared to the Gibson ES-335, the Epiphone ES-335 Pro is much more affordable, making it a great option for guitarists on a budget who want to own a piece of guitar history. With its high-quality construction and versatile tone, this guitar is a fantastic value for its price.
If you want to learn more about the difference between acoustic-electric and hollow body electric guitars for country music, check out our article on “Acoustic-electric vs Hollow Body Electric Guitars for Country Music“. Or, if you’re interested in learning about other iconic hollow body electric guitars used in country music, check out our article on “Iconic Hollow Body Electric Guitars Used in Country Music“.
3. Gibson ES-335
Gibson ES-335 is a legendary hollow body guitar that has been used in various genres of music, including country. Here are some of the features and reasons why this guitar is a popular choice for country musicians:
- Semi-hollow design: The Gibson ES-335 has a semi-hollow design, which means that the body is partially hollow, allowing it to deliver rich and warm tones. This design also helps to reduce any unwanted feedback or distortion.
- Quality construction: The guitar is crafted with high-quality materials such as maple and mahogany. The top is made of AAA-grade figured maple, which looks stunning and enhances the overall tone of the guitar. The neck is made of mahogany and has a slim taper profile, making it comfortable to play for extended periods.
- Powerful pickups: The ES-335 is equipped with Burstbucker pickups, which are designed to replicate the sound of vintage humbuckers. These pickups deliver a classic, punchy tone that is well-suited for country music.
- Versatility: While the ES-335 is a popular choice for blues and rock music, it is also a versatile guitar that can produce a range of tones. This makes it an ideal choice for country musicians who require a guitar that can handle a variety of playing styles.
In terms of price, the Gibson ES-335 is one of the more expensive guitars on this list. However, for serious musicians who want a high-quality, professional-grade guitar, the price is justified. With its beautiful design, quality construction, and versatile tone, the Gibson ES-335 is undoubtedly one of the best hollow body electric guitars for country music.
4. Ibanez Artcore AF75
The Ibanez Artcore AF75 is a great option for country music enthusiasts seeking a high-quality, yet affordable option. This guitar boasts a versatile tone that perfectly suits both traditional and modern country music styles. Here are some key features that make the Ibanez Artcore AF75 stand out:
| Tone Quality | Build Quality | Playability | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Ibanez Artcore AF75 has a warm, bright tone due to its dual humbucker pickups. The pickups are designed to produce a clean, articulate sound that’s perfect for country music, but can also handle other genres. | The guitar’s body is made of maple, which is known for its hard-wearing, durable qualities. The neck is also made of maple, which, when combined with the rosewood fretboard, provides excellent tonal balance and sustain. | The Artcore AF75 has a comfortable, slim neck profile that allows for easy fretting and chord changes. It also has a cutaway design, which provides easy access to the higher frets, making it easier to play solos. | The Ibanez Artcore AF75 is an affordable option for those who want a high-quality hollow body electric guitar that won’t break the bank. The price point is mid-range, making it an excellent value for the quality you get. |
The Ibanez Artcore AF75 is a great choice for country music enthusiasts looking for an affordable and quality instrument. Its versatile tone and comfortable playability make it a popular choice among both beginner and experienced guitar players alike. With its durable build quality, this guitar can provide years of enjoyment and easily rank among the top choices for hollow body electric guitars for country music.
5. Fender Classic Series ’72 Telecaster Thinline
The Fender Classic Series ’72 Telecaster Thinline is a top-notch hollow body electric guitar for country music players. This guitar features a semi-hollow ash body with an f-hole, much like its predecessors from the 70s. The vintage-inspired look and feel of the Fender Classic Series ’72 Telecaster Thinline will appeal to country musicians who want to stand out on stage.
One of the standout features of this guitar is its two Fender Wide Range humbucking pickups, which give it a rich, warm tone. The pickups are highly responsive and can handle a wide range of playing styles, from twangy country licks to bluesy solos. The neck pickup has a strong, fat sound, while the bridge pickup is bright and chimey, making it perfect for country rhythm guitar.
The Fender Classic Series ’72 Telecaster Thinline has a maple neck with a C-shaped profile, providing comfortable playability. The maple fingerboard has 21 vintage-style frets, making it easy to navigate around the neck. The guitar is also incredibly lightweight, making it easy to play for extended periods of time.
Here is a table summarizing the key features of the Fender Classic Series ’72 Telecaster Thinline:
| Body | Semi-hollow ash with f-hole |
| Pickups | Two Fender Wide Range humbuckers |
| Neck | Maple with C-shaped profile |
| Fingerboard | Maple with 21 vintage-style frets |
| Weight | Lightweight |
The Fender Classic Series ’72 Telecaster Thinline is a great choice for country music players who want a guitar with vintage flair and modern playability. With its sleek design and versatile sound, this guitar is sure to be a hit on stage and in the studio.
6. D’Angelico Premier DC
The D’Angelico Premier DC is a sleek combination of classic design and modern features. This guitar is the epitome of elegance and style, with a distinctive sound that is perfect for country music. Here are some of the key features that make the D’Angelico Premier DC one of the best hollow body electric guitars for country music.
| Body Material | Laminated Maple |
| Top Material | Laminated Spruce |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Fingerboard Material | Pau Ferro |
| Pickup Configuration | Dual Humbuckers |
| Bridge | Tune-O-Matic |
| Controls | 2 Volume, 2 Tone, 3-Way Toggle Switch |
The laminated maple body and spruce top create a warm and resonant tone that is perfect for country music. The maple neck and pau ferro fingerboard provide a smooth playing experience, while the dual humbuckers deliver a rich and dynamic sound. The Tune-O-Matic bridge allows for easy intonation adjustment, and the 2 volume, 2 tone, and 3-way toggle switch give you complete control over your sound.
One of the standout features of the D’Angelico Premier DC is its stunning appearance. With its classic f-hole design and stylish finishes, this guitar is sure to turn heads on stage. But it’s not just a pretty face – the build quality is top-notch, with attention to detail and craftsmanship that is second to none.
The D’Angelico Premier DC is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality hollow body electric guitar for country music. Its combination of classic design, modern features, and exceptional build quality make it a standout option in its price range.
7. Guild Starfire IV
The Guild Starfire IV is a classic hollow body electric guitar that is perfect for country music. It has a rich, warm tone that is perfect for both rhythm and lead playing. The guitar has a natural finish with a beautiful wood grain pattern that enhances its vintage appeal.
One of the standout features of the Guild Starfire IV is its semi-hollow body design. It has a laminated maple body with a center block that helps to reduce feedback and maintain sustain. This design also gives the guitar a lightweight feel which is great for long gigs and performances.
The Guild Starfire IV has a set mahogany neck that features a rosewood fingerboard with 22 frets. The neck is slim and comfortable to play, making it ideal for fast-paced country solos. The guitar has a 24 3/4 inch scale length and a 1 11/16 inch nut width that provides ample room for string bends and other playing techniques.
This guitar is equipped with two Guild LB-1 Little Bucker pickups that deliver a punchy and dynamic sound. These pickups have a unique character that is perfect for country music. The guitar has a three-way pickup selector switch that allows players to choose between different pickup combinations for added tone versatility.
Below is a table that summarizes the key features of the Guild Starfire IV:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Body | Laminated Maple with Center Block |
| Neck | Set Mahogany Neck with Slim Profile and Rosewood Fingerboard |
| Pickups | 2 Guild LB-1 Little Bucker Pickups |
| Controls | Volume, Tone, 3-Way Pickup Selector Switch |
| Scale Length | 24 3/4 inches |
| Nut Width | 1 11/16 inches |
The Guild Starfire IV is an excellent choice for country musicians who want a versatile, high-quality hollow body electric guitar. Its semi-hollow design, comfortable neck, and unique pickups make it perfect for a variety of playing styles. It also has a classic look and feel that will appeal to vintage guitar enthusiasts.
8. Gibson ES-330
The Gibson ES-330 is a classic hollow body electric guitar known for its rich tone and vintage vibe. It is a renowned choice amongst country music players due to its versatile sound and excellent playability. Let’s take a closer look at the features of this iconic guitar.
Tone Quality: The Gibson ES-330 produces a warm and full-bodied tone that is loved by guitar enthusiasts worldwide. It has a pair of P-90 pickups that deliver a bright and articulate sound, making it ideal for playing country music. The guitar has a 3-way pickup toggle switch that provides three distinct tonal options, giving players the freedom to experiment and create unique sounds.
Build Quality: The Gibson ES-330 has a solid construction that is built to last. The guitar features a single-cutaway body made of laminated maple, a rosewood fretboard, and a mahogany neck. The hardware is also top-notch, with a Tune-O-Matic bridge and a trapeze tailpiece. The guitar has a lightweight design, making it easy to play for extended periods without fatiguing.
Playability: The Gibson ES-330 has an excellent playability that makes it a joy to play for guitarists of all skill levels. It has a slim and comfortable neck shape that allows for fast and easy finger movement across the fretboard. The guitar also has a 24.75-inch scale length, which is perfect for producing bright and punchy notes.
Price: The Gibson ES-330 is not the cheapest guitar on the market, but it is definitely worth the investment. It is a high-quality instrument that delivers a unique and versatile sound that is perfect for country music. The price range of the Gibson ES-330 is around $3,899 to $4,299 depending on the model and finish.
Brand Reputation: Gibson is a reputable brand in the guitar industry, known for producing high-quality instruments that are loved by musicians all over the world. The company has been around since 1902 and has a long history of creating iconic guitars that have become part of music history.
The Gibson ES-330 is an excellent option for players looking for a high-quality hollow body electric guitar for playing country music. Its warm and full-bodied tone, solid construction, excellent playability, and brand reputation make it a top choice amongst guitarists. It is a worthy investment for those who are serious about their music and want to achieve a unique and iconic sound.
| Tone Quality | Warm and full-bodied tone with P-90 pickups and 3-way pickup toggle switch |
| Build Quality | Solid construction with laminated maple body, rosewood fretboard, and mahogany neck, Tune-O-Matic bridge, and trapeze tailpiece |
| Playability | Slim and comfortable neck shape, 24.75-inch scale length |
| Price | Around $3,899 to $4,299 depending on the model and finish |
| Brand Reputation | Gibson is a reputable brand with a long history of creating iconic guitars |
9. Godin 5th Avenue CW Kingpin II
The Godin 5th Avenue CW Kingpin II is a versatile and stylish hollow body electric guitar that has a lot to offer for country music players. This guitar has a unique design that combines vintage and modern styles to create a visually appealing instrument.
One of the most attractive features of the Godin 5th Avenue CW Kingpin II is its body construction. The guitar features a Canadian wild cherry top, back, and sides, which create a warm and resonant sound. Additionally, the silver leaf maple neck provides a smooth and comfortable playing experience.
When it comes to electronics, the Godin 5th Avenue CW Kingpin II is equipped with a pair of Godin Kingpin P90 single-coil pickups. These pickups are known for their clear and articulate sound, making them a great choice for country music players who want to hear every note. The pickups can be adjusted easily by the volume and tone controls, allowing players to fine-tune their sound to perfection.
Here is a table summarizing the key features of Godin 5th Avenue CW Kingpin II:
| Body Material: | Canadian Wild Cherry |
| Neck Material: | Silver Leaf Maple |
| Fingerboard Material: | Rosewood |
| Pickup configuration: | 2 x Godin Kingpin P90 single-coil pickups |
| Controls: | 2 x Volume, 2 x Tone |
| Bridge: | Adjustable Tusq |
| Scale Length: | 24.84″ |
The Godin 5th Avenue CW Kingpin II is a beautifully crafted guitar that offers great tone, playability, and aesthetics. It is a great option for country music players who want a high-quality hollow body electric guitar that delivers on all fronts.
10. Yamaha SA2200
The Yamaha SA2200 is a premium hollow body electric guitar that has been designed to cater to the needs of country music enthusiasts. This guitar stands out from the crowd due to its exceptional tonal quality and superior build quality. Here are some features that make it one of the best options for country music:
- Tone Quality: The SA2200 has a warm and rich tone that is perfect for country music. The guitar features a pair of Alnico V humbucking pickups that produce a clear, articulate sound with excellent sustain. The SA2200 also has a smooth and comfortable neck that allows for easy playing and fast fingerwork. These features make the SA2200 an ideal guitar for both rhythm and lead playing.
- Build Quality: Yamaha is known for its exceptional build quality and attention to detail, and the SA2200 is no exception. The guitar features a high-quality maple body, a mahogany neck, and a rosewood fretboard. The guitar also has a stylish and elegant design that makes it stand out from the crowd.
- Playability: The SA2200 has a comfortable and easy-to-play neck that makes it an ideal choice for players of all skill levels. The guitar also has a 24 ¾-inch scale length, which makes it easy to reach all the way down the fretboard for those high notes.
- Price: While the Yamaha SA2200 is one of the more expensive options on this list, it is well worth the investment. The guitar’s exceptional tone quality and build quality make it an ideal choice for serious players who want the best of the best.
- Brand Reputation: Yamaha is known for its quality products and exceptional customer service. They have been in the business for over a century and have a reputation for producing some of the best musical instruments in the world. When you buy a Yamaha product, you can be assured that you are getting a high-quality instrument.
The Yamaha SA2200 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a premium hollow body electric guitar for country music. Its exceptional tonal quality, superior build quality, and comfortable playability make it one of the best options on the market today. If you are serious about your country music playing and want the best of the best, the Yamaha SA2200 is definitely worth considering.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hollow Body Electric Guitar for Country Music
As you search for the perfect hollow body electric guitar for country music, there are several key factors to keep in mind. From the quality of tone to the reputation of the brand, every element plays a crucial role in determining the right instrument for your playing style. To help you make an informed decision, we break down the most important considerations below. Take a moment to consider each one carefully, and you’ll be well on your way to finding a guitar that perfectly matches your needs and preferences.
1. Tone Quality
When it comes to choosing a hollow body electric guitar for country music, tone quality is an essential factor to consider. The guitar should produce the warm, bright, and rich sounds that are typical of country music.
Here are some critical aspects of tone quality to keep in mind when choosing a hollow body electric guitar:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Resonance | The guitar should have a resonance that enhances the quality of the sound produced. The sound should be full and pleasing to the ear. |
| Sustain | A guitar with high sustain is crucial for creating emotional solos and melodies that resonate with the audience. |
| Clarity | Country music often features intricate picking styles, with precise plucking of individual strings. A guitar with clear sound separation can enhance the performance of country guitarists. |
| Warmth | Warmth is an essential characteristic of hollow body electric guitars that deliver the classic country music tone. The guitar should produce rich, deep, and warm sounds that blend in well with other instruments and vocals. |
| Brightness | A guitar’s brightness can contribute to its tonal quality, making it sonically pleasing and stand out. A bright sound can help create unique riffs and hooks that are a hallmark of country music. |
All these aspects contribute to the final tone quality produced by a hollow body electric guitar. As such, it’s important to choose a guitar that excels in these areas. The guitars listed in our top 10 selection offer a perfect mix of all the critical aspects of tone quality, making them perfect for country music.
2. Build Quality
When it comes to choosing a hollow body electric guitar for country music, the build quality is an essential factor to consider. A well-constructed guitar will provide excellent sound quality and better playability, which is why you should look for models that have a reputation for top-notch build quality.
Here are some key features you should consider when evaluating the build quality of a hollow body electric guitar:
| Feature | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Body Material | The material used for the body affects the guitar’s weight, durability, and sound quality. Look for models made of high-quality materials such as mahogany, maple, or spruce. |
| Construction Technique | The technique used to construct the guitar, such as ply or laminate construction, affects sound quality and durability. Solid wood construction, while more expensive, will usually yield a better sound. |
| Hardware Quality | Hardware such as tuning machines, bridge, and pickups should be well-made and durable to ensure the guitar playability and longevity. Look for high-quality hardware from reputable brands such as Grover, Gibson, or Seymour Duncan. |
| Finish Quality | The finish of a guitar is essential for both aesthetics and durability. The finish should be even and free of blemishes, and the guitar should be coated with a thin, protective layer to prevent damage or wear over time. |
| Neck Quality | The neck’s quality will determine how well the guitar plays and how comfortable it is to hold. Look for models with well-crafted necks made of high-quality wood, such as maple or mahogany, and with a properly attached truss rod. |
A guitar with good build quality will not only provide an excellent sound but will also be more durable, staying in good condition even after years of use. Quality construction is particularly important for hollow body guitars, which require precise construction to maintain structural integrity and optimal resonance. By paying attention to the features above, you can ensure that you choose a hollow body electric guitar with top-notch build quality.
3. Playability
When it comes to choosing the right hollow body electric guitar for country music, playability is a crucial factor to consider. Playability refers to how smoothly and comfortably the guitar can be played. This includes factors such as the neck shape, fretboard radius, and overall weight of the guitar.
To make your decision easier, we have provided a table below highlighting the playability features of each of the top 10 best hollow body electric guitars for country music:
| Guitar Model | Neck Shape | Fretboard Radius | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gretsch G5420T Electromatic | Thin “U” Shape | 12″ | 7.5 lbs |
| Epiphone ES-335 Pro | D-Shape | 12″ | 8 lbs |
| Gibson ES-335 | Slim Taper | 12″ | 8.3 lbs |
| Ibanez Artcore AF75 | Artcore | 12″ | 7.6 lbs |
| Fender Classic Series ’72 Telecaster Thinline | C-Shape | 7.25″ | 8.25 lbs |
| D’Angelico Premier DC | C-Shape | 14″ | 7.6 lbs |
| Guild Starfire IV | Vintage Soft “U” Shape | 9.45″ | 8.2 lbs |
| Gibson ES-330 | Slim Taper | 12″ | 6 lbs |
| Godin 5th Avenue CW Kingpin II | C-Shape | 16″ | 6.5 lbs |
| Yamaha SA2200 | Slim Profile | 13.75″ | 8 lbs |
As seen in the table, the neck shape, fretboard radius, and weight vary between each guitar model. It is important to choose a guitar with a neck that is comfortable for your hands and a weight that is manageable for your body. A guitar with a fretboard radius that complements your playing style can also help improve playability.
Playability is an important aspect to consider when choosing a hollow body electric guitar for country music. Take into account your playing style and comfort level with different neck shapes, fretboard radius, and weight before making your final decision.
4. Price
When it comes to buying a hollow body electric guitar for country music, the price can vary greatly depending on the brand, quality, and features of the guitar. While some guitars may be more expensive, it does not necessarily mean they are the best for your needs. It’s important to consider your budget and find a guitar that offers the best value for your money.
To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a table showcasing the top 10 best hollow body electric guitars for country music, along with their prices:
| Electric Guitar | Price |
|---|---|
| Gretsch G5420T Electromatic | $849.99 |
| Epiphone ES-335 Pro | $499.00 |
| Gibson ES-335 | $2,999.00 |
| Ibanez Artcore AF75 | $499.99 |
| Fender Classic Series ’72 Telecaster Thinline | $899.99 |
| D’Angelico Premier DC | $1,199.99 |
| Guild Starfire IV | $1,099.00 |
| Gibson ES-330 | $3,799.00 |
| Godin 5th Avenue CW Kingpin II | $1,195.00 |
| Yamaha SA2200 | $1,999.99 |
As you can see from the table, prices range from as low as $499.00 for the Epiphone ES-335 Pro to as high as $3,799.00 for the Gibson ES-330. While some of the more expensive guitars may offer premium features and build quality, there are still many options available at a more affordable price point.
It’s important to find a guitar that meets your needs and fits within your budget. Consider factors such as tone quality, build quality, and playability in addition to price when making your decision. Remember, a higher price tag does not always equate to a better guitar for your specific needs.
5. Brand Reputation
When it comes to choosing a hollow body electric guitar for country music, considering the brand reputation is crucial. A reputable brand often denotes high-quality products that you can rely on for many years to come.
Here are some of the most renowned brands for hollow body guitars:
- Gretsch: known for their vintage-style hollow body guitars that offer a warm, rich tone. They’re often favored by country, rockabilly, and jazz players.
- Gibson: a household name in the guitar industry, Gibson is known for crafting some of the best electric guitars in the world. Their hollow body models are no exception, boasting exceptional tone quality and build.
- Epiphone: a subsidiary of Gibson, Epiphone offers more affordable hollow body options while still maintaining quality standards. Their ES-335 Pro is a popular choice among country guitarists on a budget.
- Ibanez: while more commonly associated with metal and rock guitars, Ibanez’s Artcore series offers some fantastic hollow-body guitars, like the AF75, at a reasonable price point. Their guitars are known for their versatility and playability.
- Fender: known for their legendary solid-body guitars, Fender’s Classic Series ’72 Telecaster Thinline is a great option for those searching for a semi-hollow electric guitar. Its unique design provides a bright and crisp sound that complements country and blues music well.
Remember, the brand reputation isn’t everything. You must still consider other factors such as the guitar’s tone quality, build quality, playability, and price before making your final decision. However, opting for a reputable brand can increase your chances of owning a high-quality hollow body guitar.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best hollow body electric guitar for country music is a highly personal decision that should be based on a combination of factors such as tone quality, build quality, playability, price, and brand reputation. All of the guitars listed above offer exceptional performance and are highly recommended by industry experts and seasoned musicians alike.
Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out, the Gretsch G5420T Electromatic, Epiphone ES-335 Pro, Gibson ES-335, Ibanez Artcore AF75, Fender Classic Series ’72 Telecaster Thinline, D’Angelico Premier DC, Guild Starfire IV, Gibson ES-330, Godin 5th Avenue CW Kingpin II, and Yamaha SA2200 are all excellent options to consider. Each of these guitars has its own unique sound and feel, so it’s important to try out several models before making a final decision.
Remember to also take into account other important factors such as your playing style, the types of songs you intend to play, and the sound you are trying to achieve. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try out different models until you find the one that best fits your needs.
In the end, it’s all about finding the guitar that inspires you and allows you to express yourself through your music. With any of these top 10 best hollow body electric guitars for country music, you can be sure that you’ll be playing an instrument that will not only sound great but will also be a joy to play for years to come. So, have fun selecting your new guitar and get ready to take your country music to the next level!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can hollow body electric guitars be used for country music?
Yes, absolutely. Hollow body electric guitars are actually quite popular in country music, as they offer a warm, bright tone that’s well-suited to the genre.
2. What is the difference between a hollow body and a semi-hollow body guitar?
A hollow body guitar is completely hollow, whereas a semi-hollow body guitar has a solid block or bar running through the center of the body to add extra sustain and reduce feedback.
3. What type of pickups are best for country music played on a hollow body electric guitar?
Generally, country music is best played on single-coil pickups for a brighter, more twangy sound. However, this can vary depending on personal preference and the exact style of country music being played.
4. Are there any disadvantages to playing a hollow body electric guitar?
One potential disadvantage of a hollow body guitar is that they can be more prone to feedback at high volumes, especially when playing with distortion or overdrive. They are also more susceptible to damage from knocks and bumps due to their delicate construction.
5. Do I need to use a specific type of amplifier with a hollow body electric guitar?
No, you can use any type of amplifier with a hollow body guitar, but a tube amp or a clean solid-state amp are both popular choices for country music.
6. Can I play other genres of music on a hollow body electric guitar?
Absolutely! While they are often associated with jazz and country music, hollow body guitars can be used for a wide range of genres including rock, blues, and even metal.
7. What type of strings should I use on my hollow body electric guitar for country music?
Light gauge strings are typically best for country music, as they allow for a more twangy sound and are easier to bend and play with a lot of feel.
8. What type of neck profile is recommended for a hollow body electric guitar?
Again, this comes down to personal preference. However, a thinner, more modern neck profile may not be ideal for country music, as many players prefer a slightly chunkier neck for added support and comfort.
9. How does the build quality of a hollow body electric guitar affect its sound?
A high-quality, well-built hollow body guitar will generally produce a richer, more balanced sound with less unwanted resonance or feedback. Lower quality hollow body guitars may produce a thinner or ‘plastic’ sound.
10. What is the typical price range for a good quality hollow body electric guitar?
This can vary quite a bit depending on the brand and model of guitar, but you can generally expect to spend anywhere from $500-$3000 or more for a good quality hollow body guitar suitable for country music.
