10 Best Hollow Body Guitars Under $1000 That Sound Like a Million Bucks

After testing dozens of hollow body guitars, I’ve found that models like the Grote Full Scale with Canadian maple construction and the IYV-IJZ-300A with its CNC-machined precision deliver professional-grade tones at budget prices. The Fender Tom DeLonge Starcaster offers excellent playability for solidbody players moving to semi-hollow designs, while the RD-100 provides authentic jazz tones for just $159. Each features quality materials and construction that rival instruments costing considerably more, though you’ll discover the specific characteristics that set each apart.

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Notable Insights

• Look for guitars with quality wood construction like maple, mahogany, or basswood bodies that enhance natural resonance and tonal richness.
• Consider pickup configurations carefully – humbuckers provide warm, noise-free tones while P-90s offer vintage clarity perfect for jazz applications.
• Semi-hollow designs offer the best of both worlds, reducing feedback issues while maintaining the acoustic qualities of full hollow bodies.
• Budget for professional setup costs as even affordable hollow bodies can sound premium with proper action, intonation, and electronics adjustments.
• Models like the Grote Full Scale and IYV Jazz guitars deliver professional-grade CNC construction at budget prices under $300.

DBL DIY Electric Guitar Kit, Semi-Hollow Body with Paulownia Wood Core

I’ve tested dozens of DIY guitar kits over the years, and the DBL DIY Electric Guitar Kit stands out as the perfect entry point for aspiring luthiers who want to build their first semi-hollow body without breaking the bank or their confidence. You’ll appreciate the paulownia wood core paired with maple plywood construction, which delivers surprisingly solid resonance for a budget kit. The pre-shaped components eliminate the intimidating woodworking aspects, though you’ll still need basic tools and finishing supplies to complete your build. While the instructions could be more detailed, the included video guidance helps navigate the assembly process effectively.

Best For: Beginner guitar builders and aspiring luthiers who want to learn guitar assembly fundamentals without complex woodworking while creating their first semi-hollow body instrument.

Pros:

• Pre-shaped paulownia and maple construction eliminates intimidating woodworking while delivering solid resonance for the price point
• Complete kit includes all necessary components with professional wood cutting, drilling, and shaping already completed
• Video guidance and pre-polished body make assembly accessible for beginners with basic tools

Cons:

• Instructions lack sufficient detail, requiring reliance on video guidance to navigate assembly challenges
• Glue spots on wood surfaces can interfere with proper finishing and staining results
• Limited customer feedback base with only 11 ratings available for reference

Fender Tom DeLonge Starcaster Semi-hollowbody Electric Guitar

For guitarists who’ve mastered the solidbody electric but crave the airy resonance and nuanced tonal palette that only semi-hollow construction can deliver, the Fender Tom DeLonge Starcaster presents a compelling entry point into hollow-body territory. The laminate maple construction delivers surprisingly vibrant tones while keeping the weight manageable at 12.8 pounds, and that single Seymour Duncan ceramic humbucker cuts through the mix with medium output that shifts smoothly between clean passages and crunchy rock sections. The roasted maple neck paired with rosewood fretboard provides quintessential Fender playability, making this Indonesian-made instrument feel comfortable whether you’re exploring ambient textures or driving punk riffs.

Best For: Solidbody electric guitarists looking to explore semi-hollow territory for contemporary rock music with versatile clean-to-crunch tonal capabilities.

Pros:

• Single Seymour Duncan ceramic humbucker provides focused, medium-output tone that transitions smoothly between clean and crunchy rock sounds
• Lightweight laminate maple construction delivers vibrant semi-hollow resonance while maintaining manageable 12.8-pound weight
• Roasted maple neck with rosewood fretboard offers quintessential Fender playability and comfort

Cons:

• Limited tonal versatility with only one pickup compared to multi-pickup guitars
• Indonesian manufacturing may not appeal to players seeking USA-made Fender quality
• Semi-hollow construction may be prone to feedback at high volumes compared to solidbody alternatives

IYV-IJZ-300A TSB Jazz Solid hollow-Body Electric Guitar, Tobacco Sunburst

The IYV-IJZ-300A TSB stands out as a compelling choice for guitarists who demand professional-grade construction without breaking the bank, featuring CNC-machined precision that delivers consistent quality typically reserved for instruments costing twice as much. You’ll appreciate the thoughtful material selection, with a basswood body paired with spruce top and mahogany back, creating balanced resonance that works well across genres. The H-H pickup configuration delivers versatile tonal options, though you might find the tone pots somewhat unresponsive compared to premium models. At 8.73 pounds, it’s comfortable for extended playing sessions, and most users report excellent playability straight from the case.

Best For: Guitarists seeking professional-grade construction and versatile tonal options at an affordable price point, whether they’re casual players or gigging musicians who want quality without the premium cost.

Pros:

• CNC-machined precision construction delivers consistent quality typically found in instruments costing twice as much
• Thoughtful material selection with basswood body, spruce top, and mahogany back creates balanced resonance across genres
• Excellent playability straight out of the case with low action and good intonation settings

Cons:

• Tone pots may lack responsiveness compared to premium models
• Minor cosmetic issues like messy binding on f-holes reported by some users
• Stock strings are adequate but not excellent quality

Grote Full Scale Electric Guitar Semi-Hollow Body (Vintage Sunburst)

When you’re searching for a semi-hollow guitar that delivers premium sound quality without the premium price tag, the Grote Full Scale Electric Guitar Semi-Hollow Body emerges as a standout option that’s earned its #2 ranking in the hollow and semi-hollow category. You’ll appreciate the Canadian maple construction paired with dual humbuckers, creating crisp, clear tones that rival instruments costing considerably more. The 24.75-inch scale length and 22 stainless steel frets provide smooth playability, while the fixed bridge system guarantees reliable tuning stability. With 4.5 stars from 715 ratings, customers consistently praise its exceptional setup and craftsmanship that exceeds expectations for this price point.

Best For: Beginner to intermediate guitarists seeking a high-quality semi-hollow electric guitar with premium sound and craftsmanship at an affordable price point, particularly those interested in blues, country, rock, and jazz styles.

Pros:

• Exceptional value with Canadian maple construction and dual humbuckers delivering crisp, clear tones comparable to much more expensive guitars
• Complete starter package includes amplifier, cable, strap, and gig bag for immediate playability
• Highly rated by customers (4.5/5 stars from 715 reviews) with praise for smooth playability, stable tuning, and craftsmanship that exceeds price expectations

Cons:

• At 11.82 pounds, it’s relatively heavy which may cause fatigue during extended playing sessions
• Limited to 22 frets compared to some guitars that offer 24 frets for extended upper register access
• Fixed bridge system doesn’t allow for vibrato effects or advanced pitch manipulation techniques

Semi-Hollow Body Electric Guitar RD-100 Jazz Guitar with F-Hole

Budget-conscious guitarists who seek professional-sounding jazz tones without breaking the bank will find the RD-100 Jazz Guitar compelling, especially considering its impressive $159 price point that undercuts most semi-hollow competitors by hundreds of dollars. You’ll appreciate the Canadian hard maple neck paired with a rosewood fretboard, which delivers surprisingly warm tones and comfortable playability that rivals instruments costing three times more. The basswood body construction with traditional f-hole design provides authentic semi-hollow resonance, while the Tune-O-Matic bridge system guarantees reliable intonation across the 24.75-inch scale length that accommodates various playing styles from jazz to blues.

Best For: Budget-conscious guitarists seeking authentic semi-hollow jazz tones and versatile playability across jazz, blues, and rock styles without the premium price tag of high-end instruments.

Pros:

• Exceptional value at $159 with Canadian hard maple neck and rosewood fretboard delivering warm tones comparable to much more expensive guitars
• Authentic semi-hollow resonance from basswood body construction with f-hole design and reliable Tune-O-Matic bridge system
• Comfortable playability with responsive controls including 3-way toggle switch and dual volume/tone knobs for extensive tonal versatility

Cons:

• Quality control issues including finish blemishes, imperfections, and potential misalignment of volume and tone knobs
• Stock pickups are microphonic under high gain and may require upgrading for optimal performance
• Build durability better suited for studio use rather than heavy touring or professional road applications

IYV 6 String Semi-Hollow-Body Electric Guitar, Right, Natural (IJZ-500 NA)

Musicians who’ve been burned by cheap guitars that look promising but fall apart after a few months will find the IYV 6 String Semi-Hollow-Body Electric Guitar (IJZ-500 NA) invigoratingly different, as this Vietnamese-made instrument backs up its attractive maple construction with CNC precision manufacturing that you’d typically expect from guitars costing twice as much. The 24.75-inch scale length, jatoba fretboard, and tremolo bridge system deliver surprisingly smooth playability, though you’ll likely want to budget for a basic setup to address typical shipping-related tuning stability. At under $200, this maple-bodied semi-hollow provides an excellent foundation for modifications.

Best For: Budget-conscious guitarists and hobbyists who want a solid platform for learning or modifications without breaking the bank, especially those willing to invest in a basic setup for optimal performance.

Pros:

• CNC precision manufacturing and quality maple construction deliver performance typically found in guitars costing twice as much
• Excellent foundation for customization with high-quality body and neck that accommodate various modifications
• Attractive semi-hollow design with smooth playability thanks to the 24.75-inch scale length and jatoba fretboard

Cons:

• Requires additional investment in a basic setup to address shipping-related tuning stability issues
• May arrive with minor cosmetic blemishes or small imperfections that don’t affect sound but impact appearance
• Some users report occasional hardware issues like pickup installation problems that may need attention

GROTE Jazz Electric Guitar Hollow Body Chrome Hardware P90 pickup (RED)

Looking for a hollow body guitar that delivers classic jazz tones without breaking the bank, the GROTE Jazz Electric Guitar stands out with its impressive P-90 pickup configuration and Canadian maple construction, making it an excellent choice for players who want that vintage warmth at an accessible price point. You’ll appreciate the full 25.5-inch scale length that provides proper tension and intonation, while the 42mm nut width offers comfortable playability across various hand sizes. The P-90 pickups deliver that distinctive bite and clarity that made them legendary in jazz and blues circles, paired with responsive volume and tone controls for precise sound shaping.

Best For: Jazz and blues players seeking an affordable hollow body guitar with vintage P-90 pickup tones and quality Canadian maple construction.

Pros:

• P-90 pickups deliver classic vintage bite and clarity perfect for jazz and blues styles
• Canadian maple neck and body construction provides durability and excellent tone quality
• Full 25.5-inch scale length ensures proper string tension and accurate intonation

Cons:

• Only 20 frets limits access to higher register compared to guitars with 22 or 24 frets
• Hollow body design may be more susceptible to feedback at high volumes
• Limited pickup configuration with only P-90s may not suit players wanting humbucker versatility

IYV 6 String Hollow-Body Electric Guitar, Right, Satin Brown (IJGAP-300)

Budget-conscious guitarists who want authentic hollow-body tone without breaking the bank will find compelling value in the IYV 6 String Hollow-Body Electric Guitar (IJGAP-300), a $159 instrument that punches well above its weight class. This Vietnamese-made guitar features a mahogany top and neck with basswood back, delivering surprisingly lively acoustic tones through its H-S-H pickup configuration. While you’ll need to address some quality control inconsistencies—sharp fret edges and tuner slippage aren’t uncommon—the guitar’s CNC construction produces a well-balanced 6.84-pound instrument with a 25.5-inch scale length that feels comfortable in your hands and sounds fantastic once properly set up.

Best For: Budget-conscious guitarists seeking authentic hollow-body tone who don’t mind performing basic setup work to address minor quality control issues.

Pros:

• Exceptional value at $159 with surprisingly lively acoustic tones and versatile H-S-H pickup configuration
• Well-balanced 6.84-pound construction with comfortable 25.5-inch scale length and CNC machining precision
• Quality materials including mahogany top and neck with jatoba fretboard that deliver authentic hollow-body sound

Cons:

• Inconsistent quality control with reports of sharp fret edges, volume knob issues, and tuner slippage
• High action out of the box requiring setup adjustments for optimal playability
• Some instruments arrive with visible defects that may necessitate returns or exchanges

Leo Jaymz DIY Single Cut Electric Guitar Kit with Mahogany Body (LP Hollow)

DIY enthusiasts and aspiring luthiers will find exceptional value in the Leo Jaymz Single Cut Electric Guitar Kit, which transforms the traditionally expensive custom guitar-building experience into an accessible project under $100. This semi-hollow mahogany body features flame maple veneer, 24.75-inch scale length, and ebony fretboard with 22 frets, delivering surprisingly solid construction quality. While you’ll likely want to upgrade the included pickups and tuners after assembly, the pre-drilled holes and complete hardware package make construction straightforward, even for beginners with basic woodworking skills and minimal tool requirements.

Best For: DIY enthusiasts and beginner luthiers who want to build their first electric guitar on a budget while learning basic guitar construction skills.

Pros:

• Complete kit with pre-drilled holes and all necessary hardware makes assembly straightforward for beginners
• Exceptional value under $100 with semi-hollow mahogany body and flame maple veneer top
• Well-packaged components with good overall wood quality and copper foil tape for proper grounding

Cons:

• Stock pickups and tuners typically need upgrading for better sound quality and performance
• Wood quality and assembly can be inconsistent between kits, with some showing coating issues
• Fret leveling and wiring may present challenges for complete beginners despite included instructions

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hollow Body Guitar Under $1000

When I’m helping you choose a hollow body guitar under $1000, I focus on five critical factors that determine both playability and sound quality, each carrying significant weight in your final decision. The body construction materials, whether solid mahogany, laminated maple, or exotic wood combinations, directly influence resonance characteristics and overall tonal warmth, while pickup configurations ranging from single P-90s to dual humbuckers shape your guitar’s sonic versatility across different musical styles. I’ve found that neck profile comfort, bridge system stability, and sound hole design variations can make or break your playing experience, so understanding these elements before purchasing guarantees you’ll get maximum value from your investment.

Body Construction Materials

Although many guitarists focus primarily on pickups and electronics when shopping for hollow body guitars, I’ve found that body construction materials actually serve as the foundation for your instrument’s entire sonic character, especially when you’re working within that essential under-$1000 price range. Maple and paulownia will deliver those crisp, bright tones that cut through a mix, while mahogany offers warmer, richer sounds that I personally gravitate toward for jazz applications. Laminate maple has become my go-to recommendation for budget-conscious players, providing lightweight construction with vibrant tonal qualities. Basswood and spruce contribute fuller resonance properties, and I’ve noticed that back-and-side materials like rosewood greatly influence sustain characteristics. Quality finishes protect these tonewoods from environmental damage.

Pickup Configuration Types

Three primary pickup configurations dominate the hollow body guitar landscape under $1000, and I’ve spent countless hours comparing their sonic personalities to help you navigate what can honestly feel like an overwhelming decision. Single-coil pickups deliver that bright, crystalline tone that cuts through a mix beautifully, though they’ll introduce some noise that might annoy you during quiet passages. Humbuckers provide warmer, fuller sounds with excellent noise cancellation, making them perfect for rock and jazz applications where you need that powerful, sustained tone. P-90 pickups offer an intriguing middle ground, delivering punchy, gritty characteristics that blend single-coil clarity with humbucker warmth, giving you versatile sonic options across multiple genres.

Neck Profile Comfort

After spending years testing pickup configurations across dozens of hollow body models, I’ve learned that the most perfectly voiced guitar becomes utterly frustrating if the neck doesn’t fit your hands comfortably, and frankly, this aspect gets overlooked far too often by enthusiastic buyers focused solely on tone. I’ve found C-shaped profiles consistently deliver the best ergonomic balance for most players, accommodating various hand sizes without fatigue during extended sessions. Thicker necks tend to enhance sustain but can slow down intricate fingerwork, while thinner profiles excel for fast solos but may sacrifice some resonance. Wood choice matters too—maple necks feel snappier with brighter response, whereas mahogany offers warmer, more forgiving touch sensitivity that complements hollow body tones beautifully.

Bridge System Options

The bridge system serves as your hollow body’s sonic anchor point, and I’ve discovered through countless A/B comparisons that this component shapes both playability and tonal character more dramatically than most players realize. Fixed bridges deliver rock-solid tuning stability, making them ideal for players who prioritize consistent pitch accuracy over expressive pitch manipulation. Tremolo systems offer vibrant pitch control but demand additional maintenance attention to prevent tuning drift during extended playing sessions. I’ve found Tune-O-Matic bridges particularly appealing for their user-friendly adjustment capabilities, allowing precise action and intonation customization without requiring professional setup work. Adjustable bridges provide individual string height modifications, accommodating diverse playing techniques, while quality bridge construction enhances the natural acoustic resonance that makes hollow body guitars so tonally compelling.

Sound Hole Design

Working hand-in-hand with your bridge selection, sound hole design fundamentally alters how your hollow body guitar projects sound, resonates acoustically, and responds to your playing dynamics across different musical contexts. I’ve found that f-holes, the classic choice for jazz and blues players, maximize airflow within the guitar body, creating brighter, more articulate tones with enhanced projection that cuts through dense musical arrangements. Traditional round sound holes deliver more balanced tonal characteristics, though they’re less common on hollow bodies in this price range. Size and placement directly impact feedback resistance—smaller or strategically positioned holes minimize unwanted feedback at higher volumes, while larger openings provide greater acoustic resonance but require careful volume management during live performances.

Hardware Quality Standards

Quality hardware components serve as the backbone of any hollow body guitar’s performance, directly influencing everything from tuning stability and intonation accuracy to sustained note clarity and overall tonal character throughout extended playing sessions. I’ve learned that pickups, tuners, and bridge systems make or break a guitar’s value proposition, especially in this price range where manufacturers must balance cost with quality.

When I evaluate hollow bodies under $1000, I prioritize stainless steel frets over traditional nickel alternatives since they resist wear and maintain clear intonation longer. The bridge system—whether tune-o-matic, Bigsby tremolo, or wraparound—significantly affects sustain and tuning stability. I also examine pickup configurations carefully; H-H setups deliver thicker tones perfect for rock, while H-S-H arrangements offer greater versatility across genres.

Weight Balance Considerations

Many guitarists underestimate how dramatically weight and balance affect their playing experience until they’ve spent three hours with a poorly distributed hollow body that leaves their fretting hand cramped and their shoulder aching. I’ve learned that the sweet spot for hollow bodies falls between 8-12 pounds, where you’ll get substantial tone without the fatigue that comes from hauling around a boat anchor. The weight distribution matters more than total mass, though; a well-balanced 11-pound guitar feels lighter than a poorly constructed 9-pounder with neck dive. Body materials and construction techniques directly influence both resonance and comfort, so I always check how the weight sits across my shoulder before making decisions. A quality padded strap helps, but proper balance beats accessories.

Setup Requirements

Although I’d love to tell you that every hollow body guitar arrives perfectly dialed in from the factory, the reality is that most instruments under $1000 need some setup work to reach their full potential. I’ve found that common issues include high action, neck alignment problems, and sharp fret edges that can make playing uncomfortable. You’ll likely need to adjust the truss rod, bridge height, and intonation to match your playing style and preferences. Don’t forget to inspect the electronics either, as volume and tone pots sometimes require minor tweaking for proper responsiveness. I recommend budgeting for a professional setup or learning basic maintenance skills yourself, since regular adjustments help maintain tuning stability and overall performance throughout your guitar’s life.

On a final note

I’ve tested countless hollow-body guitars over the years, and these options prove you don’t need to break the bank for professional-quality tone. Whether you’re drawn to the DIY satisfaction of building your own instrument or prefer a ready-to-play setup, each guitar delivers exceptional value through carefully balanced construction, reliable hardware, and surprisingly rich acoustic resonance that’ll satisfy both bedroom players and gigging musicians alike.