Are you looking for the best jazz guitars for the first time? No matter if you are a beginner or a professional player, the sound of your jazz guitars can dispel the stress away after a tired day.
But picking the right guitar makes you confused because there are so many options on the market. The best jazz guitar must be comfortable to play and it should sound incredible. Even if this will be your first jazz guitar and you have not known and touched it before, you have to understand the comfort/ size/ shape and sound – which is suitable for you.
Jazz guitars are as diverse and specific characteristics as the musical genre they produce. Luckily, after researching thousands of instruments, we will present the top 17 best jazz guitars below and share with you the guideline to help you choose the best.
Table of Contents
Best Jazz Guitars Comparison 2023
| No | Name | Image | Best For | Rating | Details |
| 1 | [amazon link=”B01NALDFQH” /] | [amazon fields=”B01NALDFQH” value=”thumb”] | Best hollow body jazz guitar | [amazon fields=”B01NALDFQH” value=”star_rating”] | [amazon fields=”B01NALDFQH” value=”button”] |
| 2 | [amazon link=”B00ISQCA5G” /] | [amazon fields=”B00ISQCA5G” value=”thumb”] | Best jazz guitar for classical player | [amazon fields=”B00ISQCA5G” value=”star_rating”] | [amazon fields=”B00ISQCA5G” value=”button”] |
| 3 | [amazon link=”B07C427PL2” /] | [amazon fields=”B07C427PL2” value=”thumb”] | Best vintage jazz guitar | [amazon fields=”B07C427PL2” value=”star_rating”] | [amazon fields=”B07C427PL2” value=”button”] |
| 4 | [amazon link=”B004RUZMLQ” /] | [amazon fields=”B004RUZMLQ” value=”thumb”] | Best tonal range jazz guitar | [amazon fields=”B004RUZMLQ” value=”star_rating”] | [amazon fields=”B004RUZMLQ” value=”button”] |
| 5 | [amazon link=”B00I2IR8OS” /] | [amazon fields=”B00I2IR8OS” value=”thumb”] | Best solid body jazz guitar | [amazon fields=”B00I2IR8OS” value=”star_rating”] | [amazon fields=”B00I2IR8OS” value=”button”] |
** Below, you will find our detailed reviews of the Best Jazz Guitars, but you can also click these following links to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.
[amazon bestseller=”Jazz Guitar” items=”10″ ]
Top Best Jazz Guitars Reviews 2023
Gretsch G6118T-60 Vintage
[amazon box=”B01NALDFQH” ]
The winner of the best jazz guitar belongs to Gretsch G6118T-60 Vintage. After more than 80 years of guitar-making, the quality of Gretsch cannot be doubted. Gretsch G6118T-60 Vintage has perfected in detail.
The quality of this jazz guitar is awesome and brings a smooth playing experience no matter the player’s level. This Gretsch is a traditional hollow body with a Bigsby tremolo. It’s thin and light, but it offers a fat tone with a long sustain.With the length is a 24.6 scale providing comfort feeling for fingers.
Warranty period within 1 years as committed by the manufacturer and that helps ensure a lot of trust from consumers. So this is one of the best choices you should consider.
Pros
- One year warranty on this bag
- Great styling
- Easy and comfortable to play
- Classic design
- Well-built and cool-looking
Cons
- Case not included
- Not suitable for jazz purists
Yamaha SA2200
[amazon box=”B004RUZMLQ” ]
It is a big mistake if Yamaha SA2200 is not in this list. The general guitar tone and styling of this guitar brings you back to classic sound from 50s to 60s. One of the advantages is that this guitar body is made of soft maple and is a completely jazz hollow body.
This is a product made in Japan so its quality cannot be doubted. Yamaha created this best jazz guitar with the highest of standards. There are many features focused on the player to develop their skills. It is a magnificent guitar which combines tone, appearance and playability.
In addition, the feature is to eliminate unwanted feedback while playing through a guitar amp is a plus mark for this jazz guitar.
Pros
- Vintage color
- High-gloss
- Widely tonal range
- Produce many kinds of sound
Cons
- Don’t have guitar case
- A little heavy
D’Angelico Excel DC
[amazon box=”B07C427PL2″ ]
The list of the best jazz guitars would not complete without D’Angelico Excel DC Semi-Hollow. The type of guitar is named based on the artistic master D’Angelico. Nowaday, the guitars which are made by him cost impressive prices on the vintage market.
Today, although D’Angelico Excel DC is not made by this talented man but is still one of the best jazz guitars. This guitar is meticulous attention to small details. It has all the qualities of a good semi-hollow guitar. Before plugging in, it brings crisp, full and resonant sound. Of course, when EX-DC is plugged in, the sound is better.
This is an excellent combination of state-of-the-art electronics, classic style, and the timeless, versatile appeal of a semi-hollow, the EX-DC is a worthy descendent of the D’Angelico namesake.
Pros
- Thin body
- Great jazz tone
- Comfortable to hold and play
- Well made
Cons
- Case not included
Gitane DG-350
[amazon box=”B00ISQCA5G” ]
Gitane is among the best names behind this leading model of the jazz guitar series and an excellent choice for jazz music. This guitar’s shape and dimensions are designed for Jan Akkerman but it does not mean that it is not suitable for everyone.
There are countless versions of Gitane but this DG-350 consists of solid Sitka spruce and walnut providing more modern performance. This edition has the classic setup with warm humbuckers and advanced tone controls.
One of the most remarkable features from all other guitars is its case. You just have to pay several dollars more to get the superior CD-1519 deluxe hardshell case.
Pros
- Included case
- Perfect for classical player
- Impressive, flexible tones
- No feedback
Cons
- Can still feel large at first
- Guitar case is sold separately
Gitane DG-300
[amazon box=”B001OQCC0K” ]
This is another product from Gitane. John Jorgenson designed and used this unique guitar so its quality can not be argued. Featuring a body with material of solid Sitka and Santos rosewood pickups for a range of silky tones.
Regarding the sound, it’s very close to John Jorgenson’s specifications. It’s clear and warm. Gitane DG-300 has some subtle updates, that is the style body binding and tailpiece insert gives this instrument a unique, good looking and do away with common troubles and provide modern playability.
Pros
- Light, easy to carry
- Great styling
- Comfortable to play with its slim neck
Cons
- Guitar case is sold separately
- Does not get the jazz guitar “look”
Fender Troy Van Leeuwen Jazzmaster Oxblood
[amazon box=”B00I2IR8OS” ]
It’s among the best jazz guitars for serious players who want a solid body. This is an absolutely stunning instrument. It’s a real Jazzmaster with a familiar fat sound.
This guitar sticks to the traditions for the most part but it is adjusted in some detail to improve playability. All other parts have the traditional design and include a bundle of extras.
Pros
- Classic styling
- Stays in tune well
- Great sustain and rich tone
- Great pick ups
Cons
- Fretboard was a bit dry
- The high E string is close to the edge of the fretboard
Guild Guitars X-175B Manhattan
[amazon box=”B00BSHOG86″ ]
One of the most interesting surprises in the past few years came from Guild. It is the brand that we least expected it to. Guild Guitars X-175B Manhattan is particularly worth mentioning. At the moment, it is among the best hollow jazz guitars.
This jazz guitar includes a 3 piece neck with Indian Rosewood fingerboard. That detail alone sets the vibe for a great guitar. The color is a classic blonde design, it reminds pretty much of the period correctly compared to similar guitars from the 50s.
It provides a very clear, refined and overall sensitive tone that allows you to get those subtle details to the forefront. If you’re looking to get into hollows at a reasonable price, this is the best choice you should consider.
Pros
- Lighter than other hollows jazz guitar
- Includes guitar case
- Great neck
Cons
- Some fret polishing compounds had not been fully cleaned
Ibanez LGB30 George Benson Signature
[amazon box=”B0116XUSSI” ]
If you own this jazz guitar, you need to know that you’re getting one of the best jazz guitars available. The archtop of this jazz guitar is exceptionally well constructed and extremely playable, this is the best choice for who are interested in jazz chord melodies
The flatwounds sound great. The quality of the fretboard is exceptional. Sounds great for jazz, blues and rock. When played through a tube amp, you can get really good growls as well as some nice feedback when you want.
Pros
- Flexible tones
- Changes string easily
Cons
- Slightly heavy
Gitane D-500 Gitane Professional Gypsy
[amazon box=”B00J625Y5Y” ]
This is another product from Gitane. If you want to play jazz guitar in the style of DJango Reinhardt, we strongly recommend Gitane D-500 Gitane Professional Gypsy for you.
This jazz guitar has a nice sustain and full sound.
It is wonderful for playing not only jazz but also all types of acoustic music. Like another jazz guitar from Gitane. You have to pay more to get the case to protect your guitar.
Pros
- Lightweight body and comfortable neck
Cons
- The high E can break during initial setup
Fender Geddy Lee Signature
[amazon box=”B008UCQV8K” ]
This is another best jazz guitar from Fender. The Fender Geddy Lee Signature has everything you need to get your Jazz lines flowing. The size just makes it 15 inch lower than the size of most Jazz guitar bodies. So it’s a bit more comfortable to play.
The sound is great. Comes with a narrow and fast-action neck sothe bass is fast, slinky and nimble. It looks cool, it helps produce great music, and it has a classic vibe. This jazz guitar also makes this bass incredibly fun.
Pros
- Great tone
- Medium weight
- Excellent bridge
Cons
- Can be prone to intonation issues
- Case not included
Gretsch G100CE Synchromatic Cutaway
[amazon box=”B001R2JU3S” ]
Gretsch is known as the king of vintage guitar. G100CE Synchromatic Cutaway jazz guitar is the perfect product from this brand. The evidence is that this is the most popular jazz guitar in the guitarist’s world.
This thing is a jazz guitar suited with many voices.This thing is a jazz guitar suited with many voices. This feature is an arched top hollow body. The material is made entirely from maple and an elegant natural urethane. By its simple design you can deep into the classical beauty through years.
Pros
- Fat hollowbody sound
- Great styling
Cons
- Need to order case
Cigano GJ-15 Grande Bouche Gypsy
[amazon box=”B001OQCC4Q” ]
The jazz guitar is from Gigano. It is definitely worth it if you have to pay. This particular model has a solid sitka, a slim neck made of mahogany. It produces a rich tone with a subtle bite.
The Cigano GJ-15might seem rather boring in appearance but it is more as very basic and not colorful but still quite pleasant to look at.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy for carrying
Cons
- A bit muddy
Fender Player Jazzmaster
[amazon box=”B07CVGQC73″ ]
One of the biggest features making Fender Player Jazzmaster can be the best jazz guitar is that there are many options to choose. You can get it in 5 colors: 3-color sunburst, black, tidepool, tidepool and polar white. It’s very cool. It is lightweight and offers a wide tonal range.Fender Player Jazzmaster for anything but a full-featured jazz guitar. Though it’s certainly a versatile player that can deliver top-quality sounds for a variety of music genres, it’s in jazz where it truly shines.
Pros
- Modern and contemporary sounds
- More affordable choice of guitar
Cons
- Feel large at first
Godin 5th Avenue Kingpin P90
[amazon box=”B001QCXSGE” ]
The great thing is that Godin makes the customer love their attitude, their versatility, their environmental consciousness, and of course they also make the best jazz guitars. The addition to the Godin family is Godin 5th Avenue Kingpin P90 proving it.
This jazz guitar has a great-sounding, great-playing. If you like an acoustic voice, do not worry, Kingpin can respond to your expectation. It gives the highs a much fuller foundation.
A big mark plus for this jazz guitar is that it bonuses an accessory pack including strap, Snark clip on tuner, capo, picks and polishing cloth.
Pros
- Free accessory pack
- Excellent playability
Cons
- Unexpected feedback
Fender Standard Telecaster
[amazon box=”B005N271X4″ ]
The fact is that Fender Telecaster is a solid-bodied guitar most often used in jazz. Fender Standard Telecaster is a guitar in the guise of a traditional solid body.
The Telecaster is known for sounding crystal-clear. Its simple design features are comfortable. This jazz guitar is the best choice for those who want to improve skills into a professional player.
Pros
- Hotter sound
- Fatter tone
- Greater output
Cons
- No case included
Ibanez Artcore Expressionist AM93QM
[amazon box=”B07B6T3BZD” ]
It’s not a joke to say that the Ibanez Artcore series has grown popular over the last decade. And Ibanez Artcore Expressionist AM93QM is the next step in their evolution. It plays a dominant role in various journeys and retains its status as a best jazz guitar.
What makes Ibanez Artcore Expressionist AM93QM one of the best jazz guitars is its sound. This particular model has a maple body, a neck made of mahogany and maple, and an ebony fretboard. The most convenient feature is that strings can change a breeze.
Pros
- String can change easily
- Comfortable to play
Cons
- Case not included
Ibanez ASV73 Artcore Vintage
[amazon box=”B07MJTSPFF” ]
It would be a mistake to not mention this jazz guitar. This is an incredible jazz guitar from Ibanez The body and neck are slimmer, easily lighter than others. This is why it is very easy to play for extended periods.
The Ibanez ASV73 Artcore Vintage can hold tune in an excellent way and does not require little adjustment day to day. In general, it can play smoothly and beautifully.
Pros
- Stays in tune well
- Superb build quality
- Affordable
Cons
- Pickups are just above average
- Case not included
Key Factors Of Best Jazz Guitar You’re Looking For
Are you still hesitating in finding the best jazz guitar for yourself? Do not worry. We are always here with you. Let’s have an overview together to help you make an informed choice.
Before starting, we remind you that the most important thing is to choose a guitar which suits your music and playing style and the jazz sound you follow. By referring to our guideline, choosing the best jazz guitar will be as easy as a pie.
Here are some main features to consider:
Style Of Guitar
Have you ever wondered what your favorite jazz artist plays? You want to play the same jazz music with your idol, but you must understand that maybe this type of jazz guitar is for him/ her, it is not for you. So the most important question you have to ask yourself before you are looking for a jazz guitar is “What style of jazz guitar do I need?”. You need to understand the different types of jazz guitars available based on the body style.
Basically, there are three main options of jazz guitar. We will analyse carefully to help you have the right choice for the best jazz guitar which is suitable for you. Let’s begin!
Archtop guitars (hollow body guitars)
Are you wondering what an archtop guitar is? Archtop guitars are the large, fat, traditional jazz guitars. An archtop is usually a semi-acoustic guitar with a hollow body and its top and back are arched, not flat. Even though jazz music became more popularly really only in the 1920s, the archtop guitar had appeared around for much longer. These guitars bring a traditional and warm jazz sound.
Pros:
– The original, authentic, classic jazz guitar tone and look
– Very distinctive the tone of jazz
– Many choices at affordable prices
Cons:
– Big and uncomfortable body
– Susceptibility to feedback
– Less option of sound/ tone possibilities
– Can be expensive
Semi-hollow body guitars
The next is about semi-hollow guitar. This type of jazz guitar has a solid block of wood running through the body and the two bouts hollowed out.
There are a lot of modern jazz players using this kind of guitar for their performance. It has that element of versatility that’s not really present with an archtop.
One of the advantages of these guitars is that there are many options for your choosing: blues, funk, indie and soul… It is also the best jazz guitar choice just for most stylistic scenarios.
The semi-hollow guitar brings more “modern” jazz sound and presents sound tends to be more focused than the rest of the guitar’s type.
Pros:
– Thinner body
– More comfortable to hold and play
– Still provide a great jazz tone
– Tame the feedback well
Cons:
– Lose some warmth of a hollow body guitar
Solid body guitars
The final type of jazz guitar we will mention is solid body guitars. These guitars are the “king” of the guitar world. A great jazz sound can be achieved on a solid body guitar, there is a long list of styles that it can play better suited to than jazz: rock, blues, funk and country,..
Although solid bodied guitars are not typically thought of as jazz guitars that has not stopped them from producing a passable jazz tone.
Pros:
– A versatile option
– No feedback issues
– Good jazz sound
– More versatile tones
Cons:
– Not the authentic jazz tone
– Do not have vintage look
Strings
The sad fact is that when many players are finding the best jazz, they just focus on how to select the best amps and forget the guitar’s strings. The strings are often one important ingredient that makes the perfect guitar tone. Just as there are many styles of jazz guitars, there are many different brands and styles of jazz guitar strings that can help you achieve the guitar tone you desire.
But which strings are the best for jazz guitar? There are a variety of guitar strings out on the market, it gives players a huge amount of choice, but it can also make them confusing and frustrating because they do not know how to search for the right strings for their desired tonal quality.The first question is what gauge strings you want to use? Most jazz guitar players prefer the thickest gauge strings. They also like using flat wound strings more than round wound and half wound strings.
Five Jazz Tunes You Should Know
While studying how to play jazz guitar, we must learn scales, chords and arpeggios, but we are sometimes stuck to look for jazz tunes that are appropriate for our level of development.
So we will introduce five basic jazz tunes, each focuses on specific concepts. They are independent lessons, so you can pick random and practice. Hope you like it!
“Sunny””Summertime””Cantaloupe Island””Autumn Leaves””Maiden Voyage”
Remember that this is not a complete list of introductions, but the five songs are the most common, well-balanced and basic for new players.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the perfect jazz guitar?
Playing a jazz guitar (even if it is the most expensive guitar or made by a talented artisan) does not mean that this is the perfect jazz sound you are looking for. The most important part to making perfection is in the way you play.
You need to play a guitar that’s comfortable with you and make you “feel the beat”. Otherwise, you’re not going to be able to produce efficient music. There are a lot of players not being comfortable when playing their instrument.Depending on playing styles and personal preferences, we believe absolutely that you can find your best jazz guitar.
I am a beginner, I want to know how to buy the best jazz guitar?
This is the common question! In fact, there is no best jazz guitar for everyone, but there are definitely a few jazz guitar models that would be a fit for you.
The first thing you should do is read lots of the different body styles information to understand the sonic qualities that each jazz guitar expresses.
And the second thing you need to do is get them in your hand. You can borrow a jazz guitar from your friends, your relatives or even your teacher. Spending a little time to “feel” can lead you to the exact way to your best jazz guitar.
And the final is that if you are a beginning jazz guitarist, you should have a more accomplished player assist you on this purchase journey.
How long does it take to learn jazz guitar?
The reason is that the style of jazz guitar was developed before other guitar techniques, so that is why jazz guitar is much more different. Jazz guitar focuses on technical ability and music theory.
The answer to this question depends on how much time you spend practicing. If you do not practice regularly, it costs several years or more to be professional. For example: you should spend about 2.5 hours per day playing the jazz guitar. You learn about scales and chords, sight reading and playing or learning new tunes. The more time you spend, the sooner you become fluent.
How do I practice jazz chords?
Practicing jazz guitar is a thing you need to face everyday if you want to become an expert soon. And playing chord in jazz is no exception. It is special in playing chords in jazz. It is great if you can take a jazz guitar class or if not, there thousands of free lessons you can find on Youtube and the Internet. Pretty but simple. We will give you an example. Let’s take this exercise.
1. You need to pick a chord type. For this example, you should choose drop 3.
2. The chord quality is dominant 7.
3. Next, 6432 is the string set that will work. 4. G is used as a key.5. Finally, you have to play and repeat until you remember.
This is just one we give to you. You can find it anh spend time to practice more to develop your own skills.
Do I need a pick to play jazz guitar?
Of course, using a pick is necessary for the standard in jazz guitar.
We are certain that most musicians play with their fingers, thumb and pointer, middle and sometimes ring finger. But for the beginners, it causes troubles.
You can choose flat or thumb picks depending on the situation. The thickness is key to roundness and tone.
Here is a video for you to grab more information:
Conclude: Our Answers For Best Jazz Guitars
The best jazz guitar is the most important company to conquer the music’s journey with you. You can play jazz guitar whatever you want and wherever you go. It doesn’t matter who you are, you can be a student, a doctor or a farmer,… No matter what your level is, you can be a beginner or an expert with many years spending not only jazz but also music in general.
The jazz guitar helps you swipe the stress away and brings more interesting feelings. Enjoy life!
Let’s not forget how many wonderful jazz guitars that we recommend above. We hope that you have enjoyed our review and you can put into practice the guidelines which have been thoroughly vetted. We absolutely believe that you can get the best jazz guitar for yourself.
Find your ideal jazz guitar on Amazon and make the exact decision!
| No | Name | Image | Best For | Rating | Details |
| 1 | [amazon link=”B01NALDFQH” /] | [amazon fields=”B01NALDFQH” value=”thumb”] | Best hollow body jazz guitar | [amazon fields=”B01NALDFQH” value=”star_rating”] | [amazon fields=”B01NALDFQH” value=”button”] |
| 2 | [amazon link=”B00ISQCA5G” /] | [amazon fields=”B00ISQCA5G” value=”thumb”] | Best jazz guitar for classical player | [amazon fields=”B00ISQCA5G” value=”star_rating”] | [amazon fields=”B00ISQCA5G” value=”button”] |
| 3 | [amazon link=”B07C427PL2” /] | [amazon fields=”B07C427PL2” value=”thumb”] | Best vintage jazz guitar | [amazon fields=”B07C427PL2” value=”star_rating”] | [amazon fields=”B07C427PL2” value=”button”] |
| 4 | [amazon link=”B004RUZMLQ” /] | [amazon fields=”B004RUZMLQ” value=”thumb”] | Best tonal range jazz guitar | [amazon fields=”B004RUZMLQ” value=”star_rating”] | [amazon fields=”B004RUZMLQ” value=”button”] |
| 5 | [amazon link=”B00I2IR8OS” /] | [amazon fields=”B00I2IR8OS” value=”thumb”] | Best solid body jazz guitar | [amazon fields=”B00I2IR8OS” value=”star_rating”] | [amazon fields=”B00I2IR8OS” value=”button”] |
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