Hollow Body Electric Guitars are slim-bodied, hollow guitars with pickups. The resonance of the hollow body contributes to the unique tone of these instruments.

Some hollow bodies have a solid block of wood through the center; these are known as Semi-hollow Body Guitars. The block of wood gives the guitar more sustain and makes it less susceptible to feed back. Some famous hollow body players are Brian Setzer and B.B. King.

Here are some features to consider when buying a Hollow Body electric guitar.

Pickups – The pickups are magnets with coils of wire wrapped around them, which are placed under the strings. They “pick up” the vibration of the steel strings and transform them into an electric signal that is sent to the amplifier. Although there are many variations, there are basically two types of pickups:

• Single Coil – Found in the Fender Stratocaster, the single coil pickup typically produces a “bright” sound. They are usually used in a configuration of 2 or 3 on a guitar. Excellent for rock ‘n roll, blues, or country music.

• Humbucker – This pickup looks like to single coils put tightly next two each other. They produce a “fatter” or “warmer” sound and are louder than a single coil pickup. They are found in many hollow body guitars such as the Gibson ES335. Excellent for Rock n’ roll, Blues and Jazz.

The Bridge - The Bridge is where the strings connect to the body of the guitar. There are basically 2 types of bridges.

• Fixed Bridge – Also known as a “Hard Tail”, the fixed bridge is excellent for beginners. It offers very stable tuning, and excellent sustain (how long a note rings out after you strike it.)

• Vibrato Bridge – Also known as a “Tremolo Bridge” has a handle, known as a “Vibrato Bar” or a “Whammy Bar” that allows you to move the bridge to tighten or loosen all six strings at once. Used for mild vibrato effect this style of bridge works fine and can be a lot of fun for beginners.

Maintenance and Adjustment – Most people don’t realize a guitar is a machine. Like an automobile, it occasionally requires repairs and adjustments to keep it running at peak performance. The truth is, there’s very little on a guitar that can’t be fixed and even the most expensive guitar routinely needs work. A Guitar Repairman or Luthier should periodically look over your instrument and perform a “Set-Up” when necessary. Having your instrument “Set-Up” is a process in which a repairman adjusts string height and neck straightness to your personal preference to optimize the performance of your instrument.

Other Stuff You’re Definitely Going to Need

There are a number of accessories that will help you enjoy and maintain your electric guitar. A case, polish, strings and strap are just a few of the items that you’ll need to protect your investment and keep it in top performing condition.

Recommended Electric Guitar Accessories

Our site has a complete and varied selection of Hollow Body electric guitars, all backed by our45/45/100 Guarantee. Call and speak with one of our Product Specialists to help you find the instrument that’s best for you.