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Average Price: $450

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$500

$1201+

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Description

The Washburn HB35 Semi-hollowbody electric guitar is a testament to the perfect blend of classic design and modern functionality. Crafted to deliver the warm, resonant tones of a hollowbody with the added benefit of a solid maple center block, this guitar is a versatile companion for musicians of all styles. The center block significantly reduces feedback, allowing for louder, cleaner performances without the unwanted squeal. With dual humbuckers, each outfitted with individual volume and tone controls, the HB35 offers a rich palette of tones that can be tailored to suit any musical genre.

The guitar's aesthetic is equally impressive, featuring elegant multi-laminate binding that highlights its vintage appeal. From its beautifully crafted F-holes to the sturdy fretboard, every detail of the HB35 speaks to Washburn's long-standing tradition of quality craftsmanship. Players will appreciate the precision of Grover 18:1 tuners, ensuring stable and accurate tuning—a vital feature for any performing musician.

Whether you're playing blues, rock, or jazz, the Washburn HB35 holds its own on any stage, making it a reliable and stylish choice for both seasoned performers and those just starting their musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Semi-hollowbody design with a solid maple center block for enhanced tone and reduced feedback
  • Dual humbuckers with independent volume and tone controls for versatile sound shaping
  • Elegant multi-laminate binding on body, F-holes, and fretboard
  • Grover 18:1 tuners for precise tuning stability
  • Includes a hard case for protection and portability

Product specs

Brand Washburn
Model HB35
Finish Cherry
Year 2010s
Made In China
Categories Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Semi-Hollow Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Red
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What type of music is the Washburn HB35 Semi-hollowbody best suited for?

The Washburn HB35 is ideal for jazz, blues, and rock genres, thanks to its semi-hollow body design which provides warm, resonant tones with a touch of natural sustain.

How does the pickup configuration of the Washburn HB35 affect its sound?

The Washburn HB35 features a humbucker (HH) pickup configuration, delivering rich, full-bodied tones with reduced noise, making it perfect for genres that require clarity and depth.

Is the Washburn HB35 comfortable to play for extended periods?

Yes, the double cutaway body shape and set-neck construction of the Washburn HB35 offer easy access to higher frets and a comfortable playing experience, even during long sessions.

What is the neck profile of the Washburn HB35 Semi-hollowbody?

The Washburn HB35 features a smooth, set-neck construction with a rosewood fretboard, providing a comfortable and fast playing experience suitable for various playing styles.

Does the Washburn HB35 handle feedback well in live settings?

The semi-hollow design of the Washburn HB35 helps minimize feedback compared to fully hollow guitars, making it a reliable choice for live performances, especially in amplified settings.

Paul Stark

Paul Stark

Washburn HB 35 Semi Hollow Body Electric Guitar Demo

Video thumbnail for Washburn HB 35 Semi Hollow Body Electric Guitar Demo by Paul Stark

Washburn HB 35 Semi Hollow Body Electric Guitar Demo

Paul Stark

Paul Stark

Video thumbnail for 2008 Washburn HB35 semihollow electric guitar by Jake Wildwood & Co

2008 Washburn HB35 semihollow electric guitar

Jake Wildwood & Co

Jake Wildwood & Co

Reviews

PROS

  • Offers exceptional value, rivaling guitars priced much higher

  • Gorgeous design with a classic semi-hollowbody look

  • Better build quality than some recent Gibson ES-335 models

  • Provides a nicely balanced, lightweight feel compared to other 335 models

  • Versatile sound with a distinct "woody" tone

  • Features twin humbuckers and individual tone/volume controls

  • Capable of producing a powerful, heavy sound when needed

CONS

  • Original pickups and electronics might require upgrades for optimal performance

  • Some may prefer larger frets for improved playability

  • Lack of ebony fretboard may not appeal to all players

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Washburn HB35 Semi-hollowbody.

Mods and upgrades

  • A user has added a Roland GK-2A Guitar Synth/MIDI Pickup, highlighting compatibility with synth modifications.

    Source
  • Owners suggest replacing stock pickups for improved tone; specific recommendations include Seymour Duncan SH-1 '59 pickups for a more "Les Paul-like" sound.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The lack of a back access door complicates repairs, particularly for the broken pickup selector switch.

    Source
  • Owners suggest setting the action at 2mm on the 12th fret for optimal playability, but some experience fret buzz on the low E string.

    Source
  • Short sustain may be mitigated by lowering the stoptail to increase string tension over the tune-o-matic bridge.

    Source
  • Using a shorter guitar cable (under 15 feet) can enhance high-end frequency response, reducing a flat tone.

    Source
  • Adjusting the bridge height or neck relief can prevent strings from buzzing against frets, potentially improving sustain and tone.

    Source

Build quality

  • The guitar is in perfect shape except for the faulty pickup selector switch, which may require a more complex fix due to design constraints.

    Source
  • The binding on the neck and body has been praised for its clean finish, with no rough edges noted by long-term users.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The guitar was enhanced with "fancy" volume and tone knobs, indicating customization potential for aesthetics.

    Source
  • The HB-35 features stock pickups that are reportedly adequate for classic rock, but some users feel they lack the warmth needed for jazz.

    Source

User experience

  • Multiple players confirm that the guitar is well-balanced when played sitting down, making it comfortable for extended sessions.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some owners compare the HB-35's tone to that of the Epiphone Dot, noting a slightly brighter sound profile in the Washburn.

    Source
  • A user noted the HB-30, a similar model, did not suffer from flat sound issues, hinting at potential setup or component differences affecting the HB-35.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 7 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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2 star
1 star
P

Washburn HB-35

Pretty much a Gibson 335 copy, twin humbuckers, no trem, separate tone and volume pots for each HB. I have a made in Korea model from late 1980s with the skunk stripe down the back of the neck, nice!

gert_visser

84 MIJ hb35

better build quality and sound than more recent gibson es335's

jimmarchi1

old MIJ one?

gert_visser

yup

nicolas_demars

Early 80's HB35

Destroys all the actual es 335 and is far less expensive !

jimmarchi1

ummm

nicolas_demars

sould precise it's from 1980 and still has the exact shape of a 335 !

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kevin Cadogan uses Washburn HB35 Semi-hollowbody

Kevin Cadogan

Guitarist

Third Eye Blind

...
Verified via YouTube
Color/Finish: Tobacco Burst

On the June 12, 1997, episode of "Late Night with Conan O’Brien," guitarist Kevin Cadogan is seen performing with a Tobacco Sunburst Washburn HB35 Semi-hollowbody guitar, identifiable by the duct tape on the pickup selector. This is documented in the video titled "Third Eye Blind Perform 'Semi-Charmed Life' Live on June 12, 1997," available on YouTube.

See how Tim Smith (Cardiacs) uses Washburn HB35 Semi-hollowbody

Tim Smith (Cardiacs)

Singer, Guitarist

Cardiacs

...
Verified via Photo

Seen in concert pictures from 1995. Guitar was reportedly stolen later

J

John Bell

Guitarist

Widespread Panic

...
Verified via Photo

All you have to do is get on YouTube and check out the rig rundown for Widespread Panic. JB is the one and only front man of the hardest working band on the planet. He plays the Washburn HB-35 in Wine Red (an axe I’ve been wanting for 30 years and finally got last year with an Orange RT-35 amp), he plays one in black for slide numbers, also one in sunburst, and then the tiny guitar (Washburn MS3W mandolin)on rare occasion that you get Ain’t Life Grand for an encore. When the black axe comes out you know you’re getting an “Expiration Day,” or a “Ribs and Whisky.” I’ve always wanted to hear more of JB live, but he plays the rhythm and lead role like nobody ever has, and when he has to do his part on the guitar, he shows the skills.

See how Mike Brandon uses Washburn HB35 Semi-hollowbody

Mike Brandon

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube
Color/Finish: White

Used in several live performances by The Mystery Lights in 2016 around the release of their self-titled album, these performances include their set at Amoeba Music and their appearance on CBS LA's Music Minute

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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