Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $853
Budget/Beginner
$999
$2500+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Experience the allure of jazz with the Hagstrom HL-550, a hollowbody electric guitar that combines vintage charm with modern innovation. Crafted with a mahogany body and set neck, this guitar delivers rich, resonant tones that jazz enthusiasts crave. At the heart of its exceptional performance is the Hagstrom H-Expander truss rod, a revolutionary design that ensures low action and enhances playability across the entire neck. This innovative feature, paired with the silky-smooth resinator fretboard, offers the articulate sound of high-quality ebony without the inconsistency, providing both durability and tonal clarity.
The HL-550 is equipped with a single floating custom HF-50 humbucker, delivering warm, rich tones that are ideal for jazz stylings. The self-lubricating graphite composite nut enhances string vibration through the neck, improving tuning stability and eliminating string binding. Meanwhile, the long travel Tune-O-Matic-style bridge and trapeze tailpiece enhance sustain and intonation quality, ensuring every note rings true.
Complementing these features are 18:1 Gear Ratio machine heads for precise tuning and a high-grade polyester finish that not only looks stunning but also offers superior protection for the guitar. Whether you're performing on stage or practicing in your studio, the Hagstrom HL-550 is a faithful companion in your musical journey.
Key Features:
- Mahogany body and set neck for rich, resonant tones
- Hagstrom H-Expander truss rod for enhanced playability
- Silky-smooth resinator fretboard
- Floating custom HF-50 humbucker
- Self-lubricating graphite composite nut
- Long travel Tune-O-Matic-style bridge and trapeze tailpiece
- 18:1 Gear Ratio machine heads for accurate tuning
- High-grade polyester finish for excellent protection
Product specs
| Brand | Hagstrom |
| Model | HL550 Jazz |
| Year | 2010s |
| Categories | Hollow Body Guitars |
| Body Shape | Single Cutaway |
| Body Type | Hollow Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Stop-Bar |
| Color Family | Black, Brown, Natural |
| Fretboard Material | Composite |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Offset Body | Non-Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | H |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
FAQs
-
What type of music is the Hagstrom HL550 Jazz best suited for?
-
The Hagstrom HL550 Jazz is designed for jazz music, offering warm, rich tones ideal for classic jazz guitar sounds, thanks to its hollow body and floating HF-50 humbucker pickup.
-
What is the neck profile of the Hagstrom HL550 Jazz like?
-
The Hagstrom HL550 Jazz features a set mahogany neck with a comfortable profile that facilitates smooth playability, especially for jazz musicians who favor intricate chord work and melodic lines.
-
How does the Hagstrom HL550 Jazz compare to other hollow body guitars in terms of feedback?
-
The Hagstrom HL550 Jazz, with its laminate mahogany body and floating pickup, is designed to minimize feedback issues commonly associated with hollow body guitars, making it suitable for live performances.
-
Does the Hagstrom HL550 Jazz come with a case?
-
No, the Hagstrom HL550 Jazz does not come with a case; it is sold separately.
-
What are the tuning stability features of the Hagstrom HL550 Jazz?
-
The Hagstrom HL550 Jazz is equipped with Hagstrom 18:1 die-cast tuners and an H-expander truss rod, ensuring excellent tuning stability and neck reinforcement for consistent performance.
Videos
ENGADINE MUSIC STORE
Hagstrom HL550 Jazz Guitar Engadine Music
Reviews
PROS
-
Lightweight design makes it easy to handle and play
-
Smooth fingerboard provides a great experience for jazz and blues
-
Ebony bridge and pickguard add to the aesthetic and playability
-
Thin, fast neck enhances playability for quick transitions
-
Chimey sound with excellent string clarity and clean tones
-
Simple design with minimal hardware, enhancing sound quality
-
Beautifully finished in classy black or natural mahogany
-
Floating mini-humbucker offers sweet, resonant tones
-
Stays in tune well, even after prolonged play
-
Light and balanced body allows for free vibration
CONS
-
Tuner knobs appear cheaper than expected for a premium guitar
-
Not built to withstand heavy abuse; requires careful handling
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Hagstrom HL550 Jazz.
Build quality
-
Hagstrom's HL550 guitars have faced issues due to heat and water damage from poorly managed shipping containers around 2006, impacting their reputation.
Source -
The Chinese-made models reportedly have subpar electronics and materials, affecting overall quality.
Source -
Owners report that Hagstrom's HL550 can feel cheaply made compared to other brands like Ibanez, affecting perceived quality and satisfaction.
Source
Setup and maintenance
-
Some users mention experiencing setups that are nearly unfixable, highlighting potential challenges with action and playability.
Source
Comparisons
-
Users prefer Ibanez archtops for jazz due to their reliable build and tonal qualities, often favoring them over Hagstrom for plugged-in use.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
The HL550 is less favored for jazz tones compared to Ibanez, which offers a fuller, warmer neck sound when amplified.
Source
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
More Hagstrom Hollowbody Electric Guitars
Artist usage
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Hollowbody Electric Guitars
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
equipboardGear IQ 4934
-