Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

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.

ENGADINE MUSIC STORE

ENGADINE MUSIC STORE

Hagstrom HL550 Jazz Guitar Engadine Music

Video thumbnail for Hagstrom HL550 Jazz Guitar Engadine Music by ENGADINE MUSIC STORE

Hagstrom HL550 Jazz Guitar Engadine Music

ENGADINE MUSIC STORE

ENGADINE MUSIC STORE

Video thumbnail for Bb Jazz Blues - Hagstrom HL-550 - Rob Mackillop by Rob MacKillop

Bb Jazz Blues - Hagstrom HL-550 - Rob Mackillop

Rob MacKillop

Rob MacKillop

Video thumbnail for RIXDORF MUSIC COMPANY STELLT DIE HAGSTROM HL550 VOR by Rixdorf Music Company

RIXDORF MUSIC COMPANY STELLT DIE HAGSTROM HL550 VOR

Rixdorf Music Company

Rixdorf Music Company

Video thumbnail for Hollowbody Guitar Setup with Flatwound Strings - Hagstrom HL550 by Manotick StringWorks

Hollowbody Guitar Setup with Flatwound Strings - Hagstrom HL550

Manotick StringWorks

Manotick StringWorks

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

User experience

  • Some players find Hagstrom guitars less satisfying, with comments on their sound and feel not meeting expectations for a quality archtop.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Hagstrom HL-550 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Hagstrom HL-550 is a jazz guitar that excels in tone, playability, and versatility, and it's not confined to just jazz. With a slim neck and medium frets, it offers a comfortable play experience. The laminated mahogany body provides strength and a decent acoustic tone. The 'Resinator' fingerboard adds to its quality feel. While the floating humbucker delivers punchy tones, the guitar is also capable of producing sweet, jangly chords. The main con is its scratchplate which feels out of place with the otherwise elegant design. Overall, this guitar is more than just eye candy; it’s a capable instrument for multiple genres.

positive

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Hagstrom Hollowbody Electric Guitars

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides