Did you know ESP LTD guitars are made to be top quality but more budget-friendly1? Since 1975, ESP is known for creating iconic electric guitars. These guitars are loved by legendary musicians in many music styles2. If you love guitars or rock music, ESP guitars offer an unmatched experience. ESP makes everything from high-end Original Series to affordable LTD models. They help you find your ideal guitar.
Let’s take a closer look at ESP guitars. We’ll check out their features, history, and models. These aspects have made ESP a well-known name among rock and metal fans.
Key Takeaways
- ESP guitars have been a top choice in the industry since 19752.
- ESP has a broad selection of electric guitars for all guitar lovers2.
- The ESP LTD series offers great instruments at lower prices1.
- Legendary musicians in different music genres use ESP guitars2.
- Top-notch craftsmanship and careful detail are key in ESP’s Original Series2.
Introduction to ESP Guitars
Since 1975, ESP Guitars has been leaving its mark on the music scene. It began in Tokyo, Japan, as a small shop making replacement parts. Known for superb Japanese craftsmanship and paying attention to every detail3, ESP soon became a top name in the guitar world. Musicians everywhere love ESP guitars for their quality.
The Legacy of ESP
In 1975, ESP started by making high-quality parts and then moved on to full guitars. Its excellent craftsmanship has built a solid reputation. Stars like James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett of Metallica choose ESP3. Celebrating 45 years in 2020, ESP’s dedication to quality is clear4.
Why Choose ESP?
ESP’s guitar range includes the Eclipse, Horizon, Viper, and the M and MH Series3. These guitars are known for their high quality. ESP also makes basses and acoustic guitars, covering all needs. Their guitars feature cool things like the Floyd Rose Tremolo and special “Multi-Swirl” designs4.
ESP makes its guitars in Japan, the USA, and other places for the E-II and LTD Series3. The ESP LTD Series is great for all players, showing ESP’s commitment to quality at every price level3.
The Signature Series: Artist Collaboration
The ESP Signature Series stands as a prime example of artist collaboration. It showcases guitars designed together by ESP and famous musicians. These guitars are not only technically sound but also mirror the artist’s unique style, creating iconic metal guitars.
Overview of the Signature Series
At NAMM 2024, ESP revealed eight new Signature Series guitars, continuing their tradition of working closely with musicians5. Each guitar in this series meets the artists’ detailed demands, turning every instrument into a work of art. For instance, the LTD GH SV-200 is a budget-friendly model of Gary Holt’s guitar. It features a mahogany body and neck, making it both beautiful and functional5.
Popular Artist Models
George Lynch’s redesigned Kamikaze, the LTD GL Desert Eagle, is a sought-after model. It has a Macassar ebony fingerboard and a distinct pickup set, including a Seymour Duncan Distortion in the bridge5. Mille Petrozza’s LTD MK EC-FR is another highlight, offering a sleek alder body and sturdy neck-thru-body construction5.
Bill Kelliher’s LTD Royal Shiva impresses with its unique shape and Silver Sunburst finish5. Ted Aguilar’s LTD TED-EC and Lars Frederiksen’s LTD Volsung guitars showcase high-quality materials and updated features, like the 22-fret design on the Volsung and maple cap on the TED-EC5.
The ESP Alex Skolnick Signature Series models, ESP Alex Skolnick EC, and LTD AS-600, launched in early 2014, have been very popular. These guitars, available in Silver Sunburst and Lemonburst finishes, feature ESP’s Eclipse body style and a signature Seymour Duncan pickup set6.
The Signature Series also includes bass guitars like the LTD FL-4 for Fred Leclercq. It has a sleek Satin Black finish and a 34” scale neck-thru-body construction5. Mike Leon’s LTD MLB-4 bass stands out with a unique finish and a powerful Nordstrand Big Splits pickups set5.
| Artist | Model | Features |
|---|---|---|
| George Lynch | LTD GL Desert Eagle | Macassar ebony fingerboard, Seymour Duncan Distortion pickup |
| Mille Petrozza | LTD MK EC-FR | Flat-top alder body, neck-thru-body construction |
| Bill Kelliher | LTD Royal Shiva | Double-cutaway body, Silver Sunburst finish |
| Ted Aguilar | LTD TED-EC | Neck-thru-body construction, maple cap |
| Lars Frederiksen | LTD Volsung | Oxblood Satin finish, 22-fret design |
| Fred Leclercq | LTD FL-4 bass | Satin Black finish, 34” scale |
| Mike Leon | LTD MLB-4 bass | Textured sandblasted finish, Nordstrand Big Splits pickups |
The ESP E-II Series: Professional Quality
The ESP E-II series is made for pro musicians. It’s part of ESP and meets the high demands of those who record and tour. These guitars from Japan offer both looks and high performance. They ensure artists have the best support for any scene.
Features and Benefits
The ESP E-II series is known for top-notch craftsmanship. Built in Tokyo, these electric guitars use high-quality parts and careful design. They suit many music styles like metal, jazz, pop, and punk7. Priced around $2,460.558, you get a luxury guitar without the big price tag. It comes in cool finishes like Black Natural Burst, Mercury Blueburst, and Tiger Eye Sunburst9.
Popular Models in the E-II Series
The ESP E-II Horizon FR costs $2,499.00 and is great for serious musicians8. The ESP E-II T-B7, at $2,299.00, offers high performance for extended range8. The ESP E-II M-I has a simple design and is priced at $1,999.008. The ESP E-II Arrow and ESP E-II Horizon-III are also known for bold looks and great playability8.
With 43 different models, the ESP E-II series fits many styles and genres7. They plan to add more, including new artist Signature Series models. This makes E-II guitars a key choice for pros7.
The ESP Original Series: Mastercraft Instruments
The ESP Original Series showcases the best in guitar craftsmanship. Made by the top master luthiers at the ESP Custom Shop, every guitar is a work of art. They pay close attention to every detail and only use the best materials. This series offers a wide range of beautifully crafted guitar models, setting the bar high for exclusive guitars in the industry.
The Craftsmanship Behind the Original Series
The level of craftsmanship in the ESP Original Series is outstanding. Their handcrafted guitars have many special features like different woods for the body and neck, unique inlays, and various pickup options. Master luthiers make sure each guitar looks as good as it sounds. They use fine materials such as resin, maple, koa, swamp ash, alder, mahogany, and have fingerboards made from ebony to maple10. They put a lot of work into each instrument, making them perfect for musicians who want top-notch quality and uniqueness.
Popular Models in the Original Series
The ESP Original Series includes a bunch of guitar models that guitarists love. Some have pickups from top brands like Bare Knuckle, Seymour Duncan, and EMG, offering a range of sounds10. They look amazing too, with cool finishes, natural wood, and bright colors10. You can buy these exclusive guitars from authorized dealers all over the world, ensuring you get a genuine, high-quality instrument10.
| Model | Wood Types | Pickups | Dealers |
|---|---|---|---|
| ESP Original Eclipse | Mahogany, Koa | Seymour Duncan, EMG | Sweetwater, Ikebe Music |
| ESP Original Horizon | Maple, Alder | Bare Knuckle, EMG | Drum City Guitarland, Tom Lee |
| ESP Original M-II | Swamp Ash, Mahogany | Seymour Duncan | Craft House, Station Music |
| ESP Original Mirage | Alder, Ebony | Seymour Duncan, Bare Knuckle | Axe Palace, Moore Guitars |
If you really love guitars, the ESP Original Series is perfect for you. These guitars are made with exceptional skill by master luthiers and show ESP’s dedication to producing the best. Check out the ESP Original Series and find the special guitar that meets your needs.
The ESP USA Models: American Craftsmanship
The ESP USA models are top-of-the-line, made with unmatched American craftsmanship. Crafted in southern California, these guitars mix quality with innovation. Since their start in 2013, they’ve become a top pick for professional musicians11.
You can find these guitars at select premium retailers. They offer lots of custom choices, from woods to finishes and parts. This means you can have a guitar that’s perfectly yours2. Whether you want a traditional look or something modern, ESP USA has you covered with outstanding sound and playability.
Every ESP USA guitar is checked closely to make sure it meets top standards. These guitars are designed for an unmatched playing feel, great for both live shows and studio work. They invite you to customize your guitar, making them a great choice for dedicated musicians2.
ESP USA guitars set a new standard with their American craftsmanship and high-end features. They’re the go-to for pros who only want the best12. Check out the ESP USA line and find the perfect match for your style.
The ESP Custom Shop: Tailor-Made Guitars
The ESP Custom Shop is famous for making custom guitars that fit your own style. It is in Japan, where skilled luthiers work hard on every guitar. They pick the best woods and add beautiful details, showing ESP’s dedication to making legendary guitars.
Bespoke Design Process
Creating your custom guitar starts with a talk about what you want. ESP’s experts help you choose the shape, wood, hardware, and finish. They aim to make a guitar that shows your unique style. This careful process makes sure your guitar is not just any instrument, but a unique art piece.
Examples of Notable Custom Shop Creations
ESP’s Custom Shop has made many famous guitars. Each one has a special story and look. They have made guitars for stars and collectors. These guitars have special inlays, rare woods, and detailed work, making them stand out.
For example, famous guitarists like Kirk Hammett from Metallica and George Lynch got special guitars made here. These guitars show the amazing skill in guitar making at ESP. This has helped make ESP known for its incredible custom guitars.
Since 1975, ESP has been making great guitars, starting with Hisatake Shibuya. They began selling in the US in the 1980s, with shops in New York and Los Angeles13. Every guitar from the ESP Custom Shop shows their long history of quality.
If you’re a musician or a collector, the ESP Custom Shop can make your dream guitar. With the skill of Japanese luthiers and a history of iconic guitars, your perfect guitar is possible with ESP.
ESP LTD: Affordable Excellence
Since 1996, the ESP LTD brand has stood for affordable guitars with high-quality instruments. It serves both newbie and pro musicians. LTD models shine because they give more for the money.
What Makes LTD Stand Out
LTD guitars appeal to musicians at all levels. They mix good build quality, ease of play, and affordability. You don’t often see this value in their price range.
They’re mostly made in Indonesia, Korea, and China. This makes LTDs more reachable than ESP’s top-tier Japanese models.
ESP LTD guitars pack features like high-output pickups from big names like EMG, Fishman, and Seymour Duncan. Despite being affordable, they don’t cut corners on sound. The lineup even includes 7-string and baritone guitars, proving its wide range. With most priced under $1,000, LTD guitars are a steal for the quality they offer14.
Popular LTD Models
The ESP LTD series caters to various tastes and styles:
- The DX range – Known for its sleek and modern design, these models start at an average price of $399.0014.
- Deluxe M Series – Offering enhanced features and upgraded components while maintaining affordability.
- MH Series – Perfect for those who appreciate high-quality construction with a focus on heavy metal and rock styles.
- SN Series – Combines traditional aesthetics with modern playability, suitable for various genres.
- TL Series – An innovative hybrid option for those seeking an electric-acoustic experience.
| Series | Price Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| DX | $399.00 – $1,799.00 | Modern design, various configurations |
| Deluxe M | $500.00 – $1,000.00 | Upgraded components, sleek design |
| MH | $400.00 – $900.00 | Focus on rock and metal styles |
| SN | $450.00 – $1,200.00 | Traditional aesthetics, modern playability |
| TL | $600.00 – $1,800.00 | Electric-acoustic hybrid |
ESP LTD guitars bring affordable excellence to both beginning and professional musicians. They balance quality, performance, and price well1415.
ESP Guitars for Metal and Shred Players
ESP guitars are top choices for metal guitars and shred guitars. They are known for their outstanding quality and how easy they are to play. Many famous metal and shred guitarists choose ESP guitars because of this.
James Hetfield of Metallica uses ESP guitars for their reliability and toughness16. Kirk Hammett from Metallica has also been using them for over 20 years to help with his shredding skills16.
Stephen Carpenter of Deftones picks ESP for its range that fits his playing style on 6- to 8-string guitars16. Alex Skolnick from Testament and his jazz trio proves how versatile ESP guitars can be across different styles16.
ESP guitars are known for being great to play and affordable too. Prices start at $399.00 and go up to $1,599.0017. The LTD M-201 and LTD Black Metal Series are favorites among players, costing $549.00 and $1,099.0017.
The ‘Thin U’ neck contour on ESP guitars is much loved for its comfort18. Players often customize their guitars with special pickups for their unique sound18. The LDS 1000 Series is popular for its quality and price, which ranges from $1,099.00 to $1,399.0017.
Guitarists like Ron Wood of The Rolling Stones and Frank Bello from Anthrax trust ESP guitars for their unique tones. Ron Wood has signature models in three finishes, and Frank Bello has a custom Vintage-4 bass with EMG pickups16. These stories highlight how ESP meets the needs of metal and shred musicians with guitars that support various techniques.
The TL Series: Electric and Acoustic Hybrid
ESP’s TL Series combines electric and acoustic guitar features perfectly. These guitars bring together traditional acoustic sounds and electric guitar comfort. They are versatile too.
Features of the TL Series
The TL Series stands out with its set-neck design, ensuring stability and playability. With Fishman pickups, they produce top-notch sound, especially when amplified. The series is designed for flexibility across different music styles.
The TL-6 model recently got a Charcoal Burst makeover. This update gives it a fresh, stylish appearance. You can check it out (view on eBay)19.
Why Musicians Love the TL Series
Musicians adore the TL Series for its acoustic warmth and electric ease. These versatile instruments suit many music types, like folk, jazz, rock, and blues. The Fishman pickups are a hit for their clear sound.
Additionally, the set-neck design offers extra comfort during long plays. The TL-6 model, in particular, is seen as a bargain. It is well-priced yet offers quality on par with more expensive models19.
ESP Guitars: Popular Tonewoods and Finishes
The choice of tonewoods and finishes is important in making ESP guitars. They influence the sound and look of the instrument.
Mahogany is often used for guitar bodies, found in 8 out of 12 models20. Guitarists love its sound. Ebony, used in 7 out of 12 models for fingerboards, is popular for its playability20.
Ebony is also durable and offers a bright sound, preferred by many21. The ESP Original Horizon, for instance, uses high-quality tonewoods and has a professional feel21.
In terms of finishes, ESP’s Liquid Metal Silver on the FRX Custom is eye-catching21. The combination of mahogany and maple in the Original Mystique is highly appreciated for its tone21.
ESP guitars have great features like the TonePros Locking TOM Bridge & Tailpiece, present in 5 out of 12 models20. Gotoh Locking Tuners, seen in 10 out of 12 models, ensure tuning stability20.
Top-tier hardware boosts ESP guitars’ performance. Features like the Floyd Rose bridges and Seymour Duncan pickups adjust sound and play dynamics. The FRX Custom has special designs and glow-in-the-dark side dots for both looks and function onstage21.
The table below summarizes the popular tonewoods and finishes used in various ESP models:
| Model | Tonewood | Finish | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original Horizon | High-Quality Tonewoods | Luxurious Masked Binding | Seymour Duncan Passive Pickups |
| Original Mystique | Mahogany Body and Maple Top | Hand-Made | Rich, Warm Tones |
| Original Eclipse | Top-Quality Tonewoods | Design Details | Discerning Player’s Choice |
| Original FRX | Bold Curves | Liquid Metal Silver Finish | Original Floyd Rose Bridges |
| Stream Bass | High-Quality White Ash Bodies | Hand-Crafted | Hipshot Bridges and Tuners |
| Horizon Custom | Luxurious Tonewoods | Natural Masked Body Binding | Beautiful Inlays |
The Role of Pickups in ESP Guitars
Pickups play a vital role in the sound of ESP guitars. They turn string vibrations into electrical signals. This creates a range of sounds essential for a guitarist’s expression2222. Magnetic pickups, which give a warm sound, are popular in ESP guitars.
ESP guitars feature unique pickups for different music styles. The LTD EC-1000 Piezo and the BB-600 Baritone are great examples2222. They show ESP’s effort to offer versatile sounds for musicians.
Piezo pickups are getting popular for exploring new sounds. They are in the guitar’s bridge and use crystal to turn pressure into electrical current2222. Their bright tone is perfect for unique musical styles22.
Piezo pickups need special circuitry to work well. This helps them match the sound quality of magnetic pickups2222. The Fishman Powerbridge is one example of this technology in ESP guitars.
Some ESP guitars have two output jacks for different pickup signals2222. Players can mix the signals for a custom sound. This flexibility is great for any musician wanting to shape their tone.
ESP Guitar Accessories: Completing Your Setup
Getting the right accessories is key to upgrading your ESP guitar setup. You need things like cases and straps, as well as hardware changes. ESP has a wide range of products to help improve your guitar experience.
Types of Accessories Available
ESP offers many types of accessories to make your guitar better. Let’s look at some important ones:
- Cases and Gig Bags: Keep your guitar safe with ESP’s specially made cases and gig bags.
- Straps: Choose from many strap styles for comfort and looks.
- Hardware Upgrades: Improve your guitar’s playability with top-notch tuners, bridges, and more.
- Electronic Parts: Pick from a range of pickups and electronics to find your sound.
Each accessory helps tailor your setup to your needs. They let you give your best performance.
Choosing the Right Accessories
Choosing the right accessories can make a big difference. When adding things like bridges or tuners, think about how they fit with your guitar. For example, the EverTune bridge is durable and comes with a warranty23.
Make sure to register your ESP guitar within ten days to keep the lifetime warranty valid24. This warranty covers any problems or repairs. Electronic parts and hardware come with a one-year warranty from purchase24.
To match your playing style, pick accessories that suit you best. Check out the ESP FAQ page for info on guitar accessories and how to set them up.
Choosing the best accessories allows you to not only look good but improve your play. ESP provides everything you need, from hardware changes to sturdy cases and stylish straps.
Maintaining Your ESP Guitar
Keeping your ESP guitar in good shape is key to its lasting and playing well. Regular care stops small issues from turning big. It keeps your guitar sounding great.
Regular Maintenance Tips
Clean your guitar often to keep it looking and playing great. Use the right cleaning products for each part. For rosewood and ebony fingerboards, lemon oil prevents drying25. Avoid materials that could harm the finish25. Always put your guitar in a case or gig bag25. This keeps it safe and extends its life.
Changing your strings often is a must, especially for daily players. Do this every one to two weeks25. Tune from the lowest string up. Stretch new strings to keep them in tune25. If you use thicker strings, a pro may need to adjust your guitar25.
When to Seek Professional Help
Some guitar issues need a pro’s touch. This includes setups or part replacements. Find a skilled repair shop for this25. They make careful adjustments. This ensures your guitar sounds its best and avoids damage. If unsure about care or facing big problems, reach out to a pro.
Regular care keeps your ESP guitars playable and lasting longer. Following these tips and knowing when to get professional help will let you enjoy your instrument for many years.
Reviews and Testimonials from ESP Guitar Users
People love ESP guitars for their top-notch build and versatile sounds. Users and music pros alike rave about them. The 2024 lineup introduced at the NAMM Show has already turned heads26. The Japan-made E-II Series, with its stainless steel frets, gets lots of compliments for durability26.
Stars like Metallica back the brand, adding to its fame. They share their positive experiences, shining a light on ESP26. Overall, these guitars get perfect scores for their quality, sound, and how easy they are to play27.
The guitar world is excited about ESP’s new models in 2024, including updates to the LTD Deluxe Series. And the LTD Horizon Custom ’87’s new looks are a hit26. Feedback celebrates their quality and the support from ESP, with all reviewers finding the info useful27.
Guitar clinics and events boost fans’ interest, showing ESP cares about their customers26. The buzz about the NAMM Show’s return adds to the excitement. Fans can’t wait to see what ESP does next26.
Comparing ESP Guitars to Other Brands
When talking about guitar brand comparison, it’s vital to look at the ESP quality. This quality makes these guitars stand out. ESP started in Tokyo in 1975 and moved to New York in 1983. This move showed ESP’s dedication to high standards and innovation28. They then moved to Los Angeles on Sunset Boulevard in 1993. After that, they launched the LTD brand in 1995, showing smart marketing strategies28.
Quality and Performance
ESP’s guitars, including the ESP Original Series, ESP USA, and E-II, show top craftsmanship and detail28. In Japan, the ESP Custom Shop makes handcrafted guitars. These guitars are famous among musicians for their top quality15. They offer amazing sustain, resonance, and ease of playing15.
The LTD series was started in 1996 to provide affordable guitars that still keep quality15. Made in Indonesia, South Korea, and Vietnam, LTD guitars fit different budgets without cutting down on what makes ESP great28. They have high-output pickups favored by metal and rock guitarists, showing the brand’s versatility15.
The “1000 Series” or LTD Deluxe models strike a balance between cost and performance. They are designed for both intermediate and touring musicians, offering great value at an affordable price15.
Price Point Comparison
Looking at the market, ESP’s pricing strategy stands out. Their ESP Original Series are premium, custom-made guitars for serious musicians11. On the other hand, the LTD series offers quality at a good price. The 200 series of the LTD brand, made in Indonesia or Vietnam, are the most budget-friendly28. The 1000 series, mainly made in South Korea, offers pro quality at a better price28.
ESP meets the needs of all musicians, from beginners to pros. Though ESP guitars are seen as premium, the LTD series makes them more reachable without losing key qualities1115. This smart balance lets musicians pick the best instrument for their budget and needs, placing ESP as a top choice in the guitar world.
Where to Buy Your ESP Guitar
Finding the ideal ESP guitar means choosing the best place that fits your needs, either authorized ESP dealers or online retailers. Both avenues have distinct advantages for your shopping journey.
Authorized Dealers
Shopping at authorized ESP dealers lets you try the guitar firsthand. The staff are experts and can give tailored advice and info about ESP guitars. For example, The Music Zoo in New York offers both new and inspected used ESP items, ensuring you get quality13.
These dealers might have unique models and special deals, like a 10% off on ESP LTD Deluxe EC-1000 Electric Guitars29. The Music Zoo also provides perks like curbside pickup, increasing your shopping options13.
Online Retailers
Online shops are great for a wide range and flexible purchasing, like monthly payments. Partnered platforms with ESP display a variety from cheap to premium models, with detailed specs and reviews29.
Take the ESP LTD EC-256FM Electric Guitar; it has a monthly payment plan, showing the affordability through online stores2930. Deals on blemished items and reading loads of reviews make online shopping easy and informative29.
Whether you visit a local store or browse online, both ways aim to ensure quality and happiness in finding your ESP guitar.
| Model | Price Range | Monthly Financing |
|---|---|---|
| ESP LTD EC-256FM | $399.20+ | $21.21/mo. |
| ESP E-II SN-2 | $3,399.00 | $144.46/mo. |
| ESP LTD Deluxe EC-1000 | $999.00 | $55.73/mo. |
Conclusion
As we conclude our journey through ESP guitars, it’s clear they’re a powerhouse in the music world. They excel from the high-quality Original Series to the value-packed LTD line. Each model, like the ESP E-II Eclipse with its mahogany body and maple neck31, delivers top-notch quality. Another standout is the ESP USA TE-II Hardtail, known for being light and fully customizable32.
ESP guitars aren’t just tools; they’re valuable assets for any musician. Whether you’re into shredding metal with the LTD M-1000 or playing various styles on the LTD H-100731, there’s an ESP for everyone. Artists like Charles Elliott love the LTD M-1000 for its exceptional tone, which shines on Abysmal Dawn’s latest tracks33.
In the ever-evolving world of guitar music, ESP stays on top. They equip both seasoned artists and aspiring players with the best instruments. Their focus on detail, like using stainless steel frets for extra brightness32, and dedication to innovation, sets them apart. Choosing an ESP guitar means joining a legacy of rock and roll greatness.
