What are older, affordable Gibson ES-335 - alternatives?

[Krank]

Im a blues/fusion type player, not that experienced but do have a little chop, preferring flattish boards and lowish action (but heavy strings). Never had a hollowbody guitar, reckon I should at least try it.

I've been looking for something vintage MIJ for awhile, like Yamaha SA-2000 or various Ibanez models like the AS series. I know Matsumoku made some quality instruments too under their various brands, did they do a 335 model? The Ibanez's are currently beyond my price range, though. As a Euro prices are higher for me too, if only for the cost of VAT and taxes when getting anything sent from the US.

Any input/suggestions appreciated.

 

[tim gueguen]

Yeah, Aria had a number of semihollows. The older Aria Pro II TA60s and other TAs with the 19 fret neck joint might be of interest.

 

[Krank]

Yeah, Aria had a number of semihollows. The older Aria Pro II TA60s and other TAs with the 19 fret neck joint might be of interest.

Thanks!

 

[GuitarsFromMars]

how much is affordable?

 

[GAD]

Guild Starfire if you can afford that much. Better than most 335s IMO.

GAD

 

[porsche993]

Gibson ES-333.

 

[Krank]

Thanks again.

how much is affordable?

Ha, well it's relative to my financial situation at any given moment - but say less than a thousand $.

 

[benjammin420]

Hasgtrom makes a couple very good 335-style guitar in the $600-700 range. i think theyre better manufactured, better feeling and better sounding than the ibanez line

http://guitars.musiciansfriend.com/product/Hagstrom-Viking-SemiHollow-Electric-Guitar?sku=513354

http://guitars.musiciansfriend.com/...-Deluxe-SemiHollow-Electric-Guitar?sku=513353

 

[Pietro]

Hags are nice,

So is a used Heritage, which MIGHT be in that range...

 

[Alister]

I'd say the Guild mentioned or the Yamaha SA you mentioned yourself.

 

[gkoelling]

Hags are nice,

So is a used Heritage, which MIGHT be in that range...

Great guitars but not less than $1k.