Yamaha might not be the first name that springs to mind when you think of classic semi-hollow guitars, but perhaps it should be. The Yamaha SA2200 is a guitar that often flies under the radar, yet it delivers exceptional quality and versatility, reminiscent of the iconic Gibson ES-335 but with its own distinct character. For those in the know, the SA2200 is a hidden treasure, offering premium features and performance at a competitive price point. It’s time to shine a spotlight on this remarkable instrument and explore why it should be on every serious guitar player’s radar.
Yamaha SA2200 semi-hollow electric guitar in burst finish
Sonic Versatility and Impressive Sound Quality
The Yamaha SA2200 is packed with tonal possibilities, thanks to its dual Alnico V humbucker pickups, each equipped with coil-splitting capabilities. These push/pull tone pots, combined with individual volume controls for each pickup and a three-way selector switch, unlock a vast sonic palette. What truly sets the SA2200 apart is the usability of its coil splits. Unlike some guitars where coil-splitting results in a thin and weak sound, Yamaha has engineered these pickups to deliver genuinely bright and articulate single-coil tones in both the neck and bridge positions.
Even players who typically avoid neck pickups will find something to love here. The neck pickup on the SA2200 avoids becoming muddy, maintaining clarity and responsiveness, further enhanced by the effective sweep of the tone and volume controls. The humbucker tones themselves are also noteworthy, offering a slightly sharper and more chime-like character compared to standard PAF-style pickups. While they provide ample output for genres like classic rock, blues, and pop, they retain a clarity that allows for nuanced playing. You might sacrifice a tiny bit of the raw power found in a traditional ES-335, but the trade-off is a significantly wider range of usable and inspiring sounds. Paired with versatile pedals and a quality amplifier, the Yamaha SA2200 becomes a sonic chameleon, capable of covering an impressive range of musical styles.
Exceptional Playability and Build Quality
The Yamaha SA2200 excels in playability. Right out of the box, this guitar impresses with its near-perfect setup and remarkable tuning stability, making it a reliable choice for any gigging musician. The action is smooth and comfortable across the ebony fretboard, which features 22 medium jumbo frets and elegant double block inlays. The neck profile is described as being slightly thinner than some of the chunkier necks found on similar semi-hollow guitars, yet it still provides a substantial and familiar feel in hand.
This nuanced approach to design is a recurring theme with the SA2200. It subtly deviates from expectations in ways that ultimately enhance the playing experience, creating a semi-hollow guitar that feels both vintage-inspired and distinctly modern. The fretwork is impeccable, contributing to the overall smooth feel and effortless playability. Whether strumming chords unplugged or diving into intricate solos, the SA2200 feels inspiring and robust, built to withstand the demands of regular use.
Premium Finish and Construction
The visual appeal of the Yamaha SA2200 is undeniable, especially with its striking burst finish that showcases beautiful flamed sycamore and wood grain on the body’s back. The use of laminated sycamore for the body, paired with a soft maple center block and mahogany neck, creates a resonant and balanced tonal foundation that rivals more traditional tonewood combinations like mahogany.
The build quality of the SA2200 is truly top-tier, reflecting Yamaha’s renowned Japanese craftsmanship. The hardware, including Gotoh SG30 tuners, GE101Z tailpiece, and GE103B bridge, is robust and precisely adjusted. The gloss polyurethane finish not only provides a sleek aesthetic but also offers excellent scratch resistance, ensuring the guitar maintains its pristine appearance over time. Every aspect of the construction exudes quality and attention to detail, assuring players of the instrument’s long-term reliability and durability. While the gloss finish may not relic in the same way as a nitrocellulose finish, its resilience and flawless application are testaments to Yamaha’s commitment to excellence.
Unbeatable Value in the Semi-Hollow Market
When considering value, the Yamaha SA2200 truly shines, particularly when compared to more conventional ES-335 style guitars. Gibson ES-335 models in the same category often start at a significantly higher price point, and even then, may not necessarily surpass the SA2200 in terms of overall quality and features. Yamaha’s reputation for consistent quality control further solidifies the SA2200 as a trustworthy and smart investment.
The sheer versatility of this guitar further enhances its value proposition. It’s equally at home on stage and in the studio, capable of navigating a wide spectrum of musical genres. Features like the functional coil splits, exceptional tuning stability, and overall inspiring playing experience make the SA2200 a standout choice. It strikes a compelling balance, priced high enough to meet expectations of quality but still within reach for serious players seeking a premium semi-hollow guitar without breaking the bank. For guitarists seeking a high-performance, versatile, and beautifully crafted instrument that rivals more expensive competitors, the Yamaha SA2200 is an exceptional choice that deserves far more recognition.
Good for: ES-335 Enthusiasts, Versatile Musicians, Rock, Blues, Jazz, Pop, Players Seeking Gibson Alternatives, Fans of Bright Humbuckers.
Find your own Yamaha SA2200 at Yamaha.com, Reverb.com, or Amazon.com!.
