ESP LTD guitars are very popular these days. Especially among metalheads! But with so many options, it can be tough to pick the right one.
I had the pleasure to test out quite a lot of them, so here’s a (totally subjective) list of the 10 best ESP LTD guitars out there.
Sound demos included.
Best ESP LTD Guitars – My Picks
1. ESP LTD EC-1000 Vintage Black
The EC-1000 is pretty much a go-to guitar if you’re into rock or metal. It looks slick with that matte black finish and gold hardware—kind of like something Batman would play if he were in a band.
The body is made of mahogany, which gives you a deep, rich tone, and the neck is a 3-piece set-in design, so it’s super sturdy.
The fretboard is ebony, which feels smooth and fast under your fingers—perfect for when you’re trying to nail those solos.
Key Features:
- Body: Mahogany
- Neck: 3-Piece Mahogany (Set-In)
- Fretboard: Ebony with 24 frets and abalone flag inlays
- Pickups: Active EMG 81 & EMG 60 humbuckers
- Hardware: Gold-plated with TonePros locking bridge
Why I Recommend It:
Honestly, if you’re into heavy music, this guitar is a beast. The EMG pickups are perfect for high-gain stuff, so your riffs will always stand out.
Plus, the sustain on this thing? It’s insane.
You hit a note, and it just keeps ringing. Seriously, you might start thinking your amp is broken with how long the notes last.
And if you’re tight on cash, you might want to check out the Harley Benton SC-1000 as a cheaper alternative.
It’s got active pickups too, and I’ve tested it myself—pretty solid for the price. But let’s be real, if you can swing it, the EC-1000 is worth every penny.
2. ESP LTD KH-202 BLK (Kirk Hammett Signature)
If you’re a Metallica fan (and let’s face it, who isn’t?), the KH-202 is Kirk Hammett’s signature model.
This guitar is all about speed and precision. It’s got a basswood body and a bolt-on maple neck, which makes it lighter and easier to handle, especially if you’re going to be jumping around on stage.
The roasted jatoba fretboard is smooth, and with 24 extra-jumbo frets, you’ll have no problem shredding through fast solos.
Key Features:
- Body: Basswood
- Neck: Bolt-on Maple
- Fretboard: Roasted Jatoba with 24 XJ frets
- Pickups: ESP-designed LH-301N (neck) / LH-301B (bridge) humbuckers
- Hardware: Floyd Rose Special tremolo, black hardware
Why I Recommend It:
This guitar is perfect for anyone who wants to play like Kirk. I mean, who doesn’t want to bust out “Enter Sandman” at full volume?
The ESP-designed pickups give you that classic Metallica crunch, and the Floyd Rose tremolo is just begging for some dive bombs and crazy whammy bar action.
But fair warning: once you start playing with the tremolo, you might not be able to stop. If you’re into thrash metal or just want to channel your inner Kirk, this guitar is where it’s at. Plus, it’s not gonna break the bank like some other signature models.
3. ESP LTD Snakebyte SW (James Hetfield Signature)
The Snakebyte is James Hetfield’s signature guitar, and it’s as badass as you’d expect. The body shape is unique—kind of like a modified Explorer—and it’s made from mahogany, giving it a heavy, solid feel.
The neck is also mahogany with a Makassar ebony fretboard. It’s got EMG JH humbuckers designed by Hetfield himself, so you know it’s going to deliver that crushing Metallica tone.
Key Features:
- Body: Mahogany
- Neck: Set-in Mahogany
- Fretboard: Makassar Ebony with 22 extra-jumbo frets
- Pickups: Active EMG JH humbuckers
- Hardware: TonePros Locking TOM bridge and tailpiece, LTD locking machine heads
Why I Recommend It:
If you’re a rhythm guitarist who loves chunky riffs, this guitar is your dream come true. The EMG JH pickups are perfect for those tight, palm-muted chugs that James Hetfield is famous for.
Seriously, you’ll feel like you’re playing “Master of Puppets” every time you pick it up. Plus, it just looks awesome. The Snow White finish with black hardware gives it a killer contrast. And yeah, it comes with a case, so you’re all set for your next gig.
What more could you want? Maybe a roadie to carry it for you, but until then, this is the next best thing.
4. ESP LTD MH-10 Black
The MH-10 is an excellent choice for beginners or anyone looking for a solid, no-frills guitar that still rocks hard.
It’s got a basswood body and a bolt-on maple neck that’s super comfortable to play. The fretboard is made of engineered hardwood, which, okay, doesn’t sound as fancy as ebony or rosewood, but it gets the job done.
With 24 X-Jumbo frets, you’ve got plenty of room to rip some solos or just chill with some power chords.
Key Features:
- Body: Basswood
- Neck: Bolt-on Maple
- Fretboard: Engineered Hardwood with 24 XJ frets
- Pickups: ESP Designed LH-100N (neck) and LH-100B (bridge) passive
- Hardware: TOM String Thru bridge, LTD machine heads, chrome hardware
Why I Recommend It:
This guitar is perfect if you’re just starting out or if you need a reliable backup for gigs. The ESP-designed pickups give you a solid, versatile tone that can handle anything from classic rock to metal.
Sure, it’s not going to blow your mind with fancy features, but at this price point, it’s hard to beat. Plus, it comes with a gig bag, so you don’t have to carry it around like some kind of caveman.
Seriously, for the price, you’re getting a lot of guitar here. Why spend more when this one does the job just fine? 🙂
5. ESP LTD EC-401 Black
The EC-401 is another killer option if you’re into that Les Paul-style shape but want something built for modern rock and metal.
It’s got a mahogany body with a set-in neck, which means tons of sustain and a rich, warm tone. The fretboard is Pau Ferro, which has a nice, snappy feel to it.
And of course, it’s loaded with EMG 81 and EMG 60 humbuckers, so you know it’s going to handle high-gain tones like a champ.
Key Features:
- Body: Mahogany
- Neck: Set-in Mahogany
- Fretboard: Pau Ferro with 24 XJ frets
- Pickups: 1 EMG 81 and 1 EMG 60 humbucker
- Hardware: Grover machine heads, Tune-O-Matic bridge with stop tailpiece, black nickel hardware
Why I Recommend It:
If you’re a fan of the EC-1000 but don’t quite have the budget for it, the EC-401 is a fantastic alternative.
It’s got that same killer tone and playability, just without the gold hardware and some of the higher-end touches. The EMG pickups are, as always, perfect for anything from metal to hard rock.
And let’s be honest, the all-black finish just looks mean in the best possible way. Who doesn’t want a guitar that looks like it could start a mosh pit all on its own?
6. ESP LTD Iron Cross SW (James Hetfield Signature Model)
Here’s another signature model from the man himself, James Hetfield. The Iron Cross is basically a hot-rodded Les Paul, with a mahogany body and maple top.
The neck is also mahogany, and the fretboard is Makassar ebony, so you’re getting that same smooth, fast feel. It’s got Hetfield’s signature EMG JH Set pickups, which are designed to deliver that tight, powerful tone he’s known for.
Key Features:
- Body: Mahogany with Maple Top
- Neck: Set-in Mahogany
- Fretboard: Makassar Ebony with 22 extra-jumbo frets
- Pickups: Active EMG JH Set (bridge and neck)
- Hardware: TonePros Locking TOM bridge and tailpiece, LTD locking machine heads, black hardware
Why I Recommend It:
The Iron Cross is perfect for anyone who wants that classic Hetfield tone with a bit of extra style.
The EMG JH pickups are monsters when it comes to delivering powerful, clear tones even under tons of distortion. Plus, the white finish with the black stripes just looks wicked cool. And yes, it comes with a case because guitars like this deserve to be treated right.
So, if you’re ready to bring the metal, this is the guitar to do it with. Just be prepared to have people ask, “Where’d you get that guitar?” a lot. :/
7. ESP LTD MH-1000 Evertune FM STBLK
The MH-1000 Evertune is for the player who’s tired of constantly retuning their guitar mid-set (we’ve all been there).
This guitar features the Evertune bridge, which basically keeps your guitar in tune no matter what. It’s got a mahogany body with a flamed maple top, so it looks as good as it plays. The neck-thru design gives it great sustain, and the ebony fretboard feels super smooth under your fingers.
And let’s not forget the EMG 81 and EMG 85 humbuckers that deliver that classic high-output tone.
Key Features:
- Body: Mahogany with Flamed Maple Top
- Neck: Neck-thru Maple
- Fretboard: Ebony with 24 XJ frets
- Pickups: Active EMG 85 (neck) and EMG 81 (bridge) humbuckers
- Hardware: Evertune F Model bridge, Grover machine heads, black nickel-plated hardware
Why I Recommend It:
If you’re the type of player who demands perfect tuning stability, the Evertune bridge is a game-changer.
Seriously, this thing stays in tune like nothing else. And the EMG pickups? They’re perfect for high-gain tones that’ll make your riffs stand out. The See Thru Black finish is just icing on the cake—this guitar looks sleek and menacing.
If you’ve ever cursed your guitar for going out of tune at the worst possible moment, this one’s for you. Trust me, your bandmates will thank you.
8. ESP LTD KH-3 Spider (Kirk Hammett Signature Model)
The KH-3 Spider is another one of Kirk Hammett’s signature guitars, and it’s got a vibe all its own. This one has an alder body with a neck-thru maple neck, giving it a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
The Macassar ebony fretboard is smooth, and the Extra Thin U neck profile makes it easy to play fast. The pickups are EMG BoneBreaker humbuckers, which are designed to handle everything from clean tones to high-gain madness.
Key Features:
- Body: Alder
- Neck: Neck-thru Maple
- Fretboard: Macassar Ebony with 24 XJ frets
- Pickups: 2 EMG BoneBreaker (Humbucker)
- Hardware: Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo, Grover tuners, black hardware
Why I Recommend It:
The KH-3 Spider is for the guitarist who wants something a bit different. The EMG BoneBreaker pickups give you that classic Hammett tone, and the Floyd Rose tremolo lets you go wild with dive bombs and crazy vibrato.
Plus, the spider graphic on the body? It’s just plain cool. If you’re looking to stand out on stage and want a guitar that can keep up with your playing, this one’s a no-brainer.
Just be ready for some envious looks from other guitarists. 🙂
9. ESP LTD M-1000HT BP Black Fade
The M-1000HT is for players who want something modern, sleek, and packed with cutting-edge tech. It’s got an alder body with a burl poplar top, so it looks as killer as it sounds.
The neck is continuous maple, and the fretboard is Macassar ebony with 24 XJ jumbo stainless steel frets. The pickups are Fishman Fluence Modern humbuckers, which are known for their versatility and clarity.
This guitar also features a Hipshot bridge with string-through-body design for added sustain and tuning stability.
Key Features:
- Body: Alder with Burl Poplar Top
- Neck: Continuous Maple
- Fretboard: Macassar Ebony with 24 XJ jumbo stainless steel frets
- Pickups: Fishman Fluence Modern Humbucker Ceramic (bridge) and Fluence Modern Humbucker Alnico (neck)
- Hardware: Hipshot bridge, LTD locking machine heads, black hardware
Why I Recommend It:
If you’re into modern metal or just want a guitar that can handle anything you throw at it, the M-1000HT is a solid choice.
The Fishman Fluence pickups give you a ton of tonal options, from crystal-clear cleans to crushing distortion. And let’s talk about that Black Fade finish—it looks absolutely stunning under stage lights.
This guitar is built for performance, so if you’re serious about your playing, it’s definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared for people asking, “What is that guitar?”—because it’s a showstopper.
10. ESP LTD Alexi Hexed Sawtooth
Finally, we have the Alexi Hexed Sawtooth, a tribute to the late, great Alexi Laiho of Children of Bodom.
This guitar is all about speed and precision, with an alder body and aneck-thru-body maple neck for unbeatable sustain. The Macassar ebony fretboard is fast and smooth, and the Thin U neck profile makes it easy to fly up and down the fretboard.
It’s loaded with an EMG HZ FH-2 Humbucker in the bridge, which delivers that aggressive, high-gain tone Laiho was famous for.
Key Features:
- Body: Alder
- Neck: Neck-thru-body Maple
- Fretboard: Macassar Ebony with 24 XJ frets
- Pickups: EMG HZ FH-2 Humbucker (bridge)
- Hardware: Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo, Grover machine heads, chrome hardware
Why I Recommend It:
This guitar is perfect for shredders who want to channel their inner Alexi Laiho. The EMG HZ pickup delivers the high-gain tones you need for metal, and the Floyd Rose tremolo lets you go wild with your solos.
Plus, the Purple Fade finish with pinstripes? It’s just plain awesome. If you’re looking to stand out and pay homage to one of metal’s greatest guitarists, this is the guitar for you.
Just be prepared to practice—because this guitar will make you want to play faster than ever. 🙂
My Top Pick
If I had to pick just one, it’s got to be the ESP LTD EC-1000 Vintage Black.
It’s the perfect blend of looks, tone, and playability. Whether you’re into metal, rock, or anything in between, this guitar can handle it all. The EMG pickups are fantastic, and the sustain is unreal.
Plus, it just looks so freaking cool with that matte black finish and gold hardware. If you’re serious about your guitar playing, this one’s a no-brainer.
FAQs
Q: Are ESP LTD guitars good for beginners?
A: Absolutely. Models like the MH-10 are perfect for beginners because they offer great quality at an affordable price. Plus, they’re versatile enough to handle various music styles as you develop your skills.
Q: What makes ESP LTD different from ESP?
A: ESP LTD guitars are more affordable versions of the high-end ESP models. They’re designed to offer similar playability and tone but at a price that’s easier on your wallet.
Q: Are active pickups better than passive?
A: It depends on your style. Active pickups, like the EMG 81 found in many ESP LTD guitars, are great for high-gain, high-output tones, which makes them ideal for metal. Passive pickups offer a wider range of tones and are often preferred for more versatile styles.
Q: What’s the deal with the Evertune bridge?
A: The Evertune bridge keeps your guitar in perfect tune, no matter how aggressively you play. It’s a lifesaver for live performances and recording sessions where tuning stability is crucial.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, picking the right guitar is all about what feels right for you. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned pro, ESP LTD has something for everyone.
From the rock-solid EC-1000 to the high-tech M-1000HT, these guitars are built to perform. So, what are you waiting for? Grab one, plug in, and let your music do the talking.
Happy shredding!
