A Guitars Overview: Solid-Body, Semi-Hollow, Hollow-Body Models
There are few things in this world that excite the soul quite like a finely crafted electric guitar. These instruments have been the lifeblood of rock and roll since its inception, and for good reason. With their bold designs and electrifying sounds, electric guitars have inspired generations of musicians to pick up the axe and shred like there's no tomorrow.
But with so many different types of electric guitars on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. That's why today we're going to take a deep dive into the world of electric guitars, and compare the three main types: solid-body, semi-hollow, and hollow-body. So strap in, buckle up, and let's take a ride on the wild side.
Solid-Body Electric Guitars
Solid-body electric guitars are the most common type of electric guitar, and for good reason. These instruments are built around a single block of wood, which provides a solid foundation for the pickups and bridge. This design makes solid-body electric guitars incredibly versatile, with the ability to produce a wide range of sounds and tones. Solid-body electric guitars are particularly popular among heavy metal and hard rock musicians, who love the thick, powerful sound that these instruments produce. But they're also used in a variety of other genres, from blues to country to jazz.
Some of the most iconic solid-body electric guitars include the Fender Stratocaster and the Gibson Les Paul. These guitars have been used by some of the greatest guitarists of all time, including Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Jimmy Page.
Semi-Hollow Electric Guitars
Semi-hollow electric guitars are a bit of a hybrid between solid-body and hollow-body guitars. These instruments have a solid block of wood running through the center of the body, but with hollowed-out sections on either side. This design gives semi-hollow electric guitars a unique sound that's somewhere between the warm, mellow tones of a hollow-body guitar and the bright, cutting tones of a solid-body guitar. Semi-hollow electric guitars are often used in blues and jazz music, where their warm, mellow sound is highly prized. But they're also popular in indie and alternative rock, where their unique sound can add a touch of originality to a band's sound.
Some of the famous semi-hollow electric guitars include the Epiphone inspired by Gibson ES-335 and the Epiphone Casino. These guitars have been used by musicians like B.B. King, Chuck Berry, and John Lennon.
Epiphone Inspired By Gibson ES-335 Figured - Raspberry Tea Burst
Hollow-Body Electric Guitars
Hollow-body electric guitars are the oldest type of electric guitar, and have a distinct vintage feel to them. These instruments have a completely hollow body, which gives them a warm, resonant sound that's highly sought after by jazz and blues musicians. Because of their large, hollow bodies, hollow-body electric guitars are often quite delicate, and can be prone to feedback at high volumes. But for those who are willing to put in the effort, the sound that these guitars produce is truly magical. Some of the most famous hollow-body electric guitars are the Gretsch Streamliners and Electromatic models. These guitars have been used by legends like George Harrison, Elvis Presley, Bono and Brian Setzer.
Gretsch G2622T-P90 Streamliner Center Block Double-Cut P90 with Bigsby Forge Glow
Gretsch G5622T Electromatic Center Block Double-Cut with Bigsby, Speyside
So there you have it, a wild and crazy ride through the world of electric guitars. Whether you're a heavy metal shredder or a jazz cat, there's an electric guitar out there that's perfect for you. From the thick, powerful sound of a solid-body guitar to the warm, mellow tones of a hollowbody, your sound is out there.
At Musicmaker, we've been providing guitars and advice for more than 40 years and at our wonderful shop in Dublin city, and our friendly and knowledgable staff are always on hand to help you find the guitar of your dreams.
Come in and see us!