Tanglewood TCH59VB Chicago Series Archtop Semi Acoustic Guitar, Vintage Burst Satin

Vintage Burst satin with an archtop feel

With its amber centre fading to darker edges, the Tanglewood TCH59VB looks like a classic archtop guitar. It is part of the Chicago series, a semi-hollow double cutaway with a Vintage Burst Satin finish. Pick it if you want the look of an older jazz box with modern reliability.

Burst finish

The burst runs from warm amber in the middle to a deeper shade at the rim. The satin finish keeps it matte and soft, and the flame maple top still shows its pattern through the colour.

Sound

Maple on the top, back and sides gives a clear, balanced voice. The semi-hollow body keeps notes open and sustaining, which suits blues, jazz and soulful playing. Two humbuckers add weight and cut hum, so it stays tidy when you turn up.

Neck and feel

The neck is Okoume with a Purple Heart fingerboard. It gives you a supple, stable feel that is easy on the hands in a long session. Subtle changes in touch come through clearly, so it rewards careful dynamics.

Who will like it

Players who love the sound of old records often look for this sort of guitar. The look points back to classic semi-acoustic design, but the build is up to date, so you get stable tuning and a neck that stays comfortable. It makes a good partner for fingerstyle jazz, slow blues and warm rhythm playing. If you want to play at home and gig with the same instrument, it will cover both without fuss.

• Flame maple top, maple back and sides
• Semi-hollow double cutaway body
• Two humbuckers
• Purple Heart fingerboard
• Vintage Burst Satin finish

It costs £499 and comes with free UK delivery. Compare it with the TCH59BK in Obsidian Black Gloss, the TCH59GR in Emerald Green Gloss and the TCH59HB in Honey Burst Satin. They share the same build, so it comes down to the colour you like.