14 Best ESP Guitars Black Electric Guitars, Compared
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We compared 14 best ESP Guitars black electric guitars using only published specifications. The ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-202 leads this list because it includes a Floyd Rose tremolo system for stable pitch control. Every pick here is based strictly on the specs published on the listings. We analyzed weight, dimensions, and hardware configurations to ensure accuracy. This guide helps you decide which model fits your playing style and technical needs without guessing.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You want the most compact model on the list ESP LTD EC-201 Electric Guitar Black The EC-201 measures 42.8 inches in length, making it the shortest guitar here.
- You need a fixed bridge for tuning stability ESP LTD M-1000HT Black Electric Guitar The M-1000HT features a fixed bridge and neck-thru construction for reliable sustain.
- You want a 7-string baritone with EverTune ESP LTD Arrow-1007 EverTune 7-string Baritone The Arrow-1007 offers active pickups and EverTune stability in a 7-string baritone format.
- You want a lightweight option under 10 pounds ESP LTD EC-1000S Fluence Black The EC-1000S Fluence weighs 9.5 pounds, making it the lightest guitar listed.
Our 14 picks
ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-202
Best for: players wanting a Floyd Rose-equipped Kirk Hammett-style guitar
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Body Material
- Basswood
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Humbucking Pickups
- Body Type
- Solidbody
This is a black solidbody electric guitar from ESP's LTD line. It has a basswood body, a maple neck, a rosewood fingerboard, two humbucking pickups, and a Floyd Rose tremolo. It suits you if you want a straightforward Kirk Hammett-style guitar with a double-locking vibrato system and classic black looks.
Pros
- Basswood solidbody construction
- Maple neck with rosewood fingerboard
- Two humbucking pickups
- Floyd Rose tremolo in black
- Available in right- and left-handed versions
Cons
- No pickup brand or model is listed
- No scale length or nut width is listed
- No case or gig bag is listed
Good fit if
- You want a black ESP LTD with a Floyd Rose tremolo
- You want a basswood solidbody with a maple neck and rosewood fingerboard
- You need a left-handed option
Skip if
- You prefer a fixed bridge or hardtail guitar
- You want a guitar with a mahogany or alder body
- You need a 7-string or baritone model
Verdict: ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-202 Black is a solid entry-level signature model with a Floyd Rose tremolo and a simple wood combination. It delivers the look and feel of the KH series at a lower price point.
ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-WZ
Best for: Players wanting a loaded Kirk Hammett signature guitar
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Body Material
- Alder
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Body Type
- solid body
- Number of Frets
- 24
This is a Kirk Hammett signature solid-body electric guitar in a black graphic finish. It pairs an alder body with a maple neck and rosewood fingerboard, and it uses a 25.5-inch scale with 24 extra-jumbo frets. A Floyd Rose bridge and locking nut team up with active EMG 81 and 60 pickups. A hardshell case is included.
Pros
- Active EMG 81 bridge and EMG 60 neck pickups
- Floyd Rose bridge and locking nut for stable tuning
- Alder body with maple neck and rosewood fingerboard
- 24 extra-jumbo frets on a 25.5" scale
- Hardshell case included
Cons
- Only two finish style options listed
- No push-pull or coil-split controls listed
Good fit if
- You want a premium Kirk Hammett signature model
- You play metal and want active EMG pickups
- You need a Floyd Rose and locking nut for heavy whammy use
Skip if
- You prefer a fixed bridge or simpler tremolo
- You want passive pickups or more tonal options
- You are looking for a 7-string or baritone model
Verdict: ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature White Zombie is a premium signature guitar built around active EMG pickups, a Floyd Rose bridge, and a 25.5-inch scale with 24 frets.
ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin
Best for: players wanting active pickups and a black satin finish
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Body Material
- mahogany
- Neck Material
- mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- ebony
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 active humbucking pickups
- Body Type
- solidbody
The ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin is a solidbody electric guitar with a mahogany body and maple top. It features two active humbucking pickups, an ebony fingerboard, and a mahogany neck. This model is suited for players who want a stable tuning system and a classic single-cutaway design in a black satin finish.
Pros
- Solidbody mahogany body with maple top
- Two active humbucking pickups
- Ebony fingerboard
- Mahogany neck
Cons
- No tremolo bridge listed
- Satin finish may show wear over time
Good fit if
- You want a guitar with active pickups for high-output tone
- You prefer a mahogany body and neck for warm resonance
- You like a black satin finish for a non-glossy look
Skip if
- You need a guitar with a tremolo system
- You prefer a gloss finish for durability
Verdict: ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin is a solid choice if you want a mahogany-bodied guitar with active humbuckers and an ebony fingerboard, all in a black satin finish.
ESP LTD EC-201 Electric Guitar Black
Best for: Players who want a simple black mahogany ESP
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Pickup Configuration
- 1 Humbucking Pickup
- Body Type
- Solidbody
The ESP LTD EC-201 is a black solidbody electric guitar with a mahogany body and mahogany neck. It has a rosewood fingerboard and one humbucking pickup, which keeps controls simple. It is a budget-focused option within this list of black ESP guitars. The 42.8-inch overall length suits players who want a straightforward, single-pickup guitar.
Pros
- Solidbody mahogany body
- Mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard
- Single humbucking pickup keeps controls simple
- Black finish throughout
Cons
- Only one pickup, so no neck pickup tones
- No bridge, tuner, or switching specs listed
- Single color option: Black
Good fit if
- You want a budget-friendly black ESP guitar
- You prefer a simple one-pickup setup
- You want mahogany body and neck construction
Skip if
- You need a neck pickup or multiple tones
- You want detailed hardware specifications before buying
- You prefer a guitar with more than one finish option
Verdict: ESP LTD EC-201 Black is a straightforward black solidbody with mahogany construction and a single humbucker, making it a sensible budget pick in this lineup.
ESP LTD EC-1000S Fluence Black
Best for: players wanting an all-mahogany active-pickup ESP LTD
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- Macassar Ebony
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Active Humbucking Pickups
- Body Type
- Solidbody
The ESP LTD EC-1000S Fluence Black is a solidbody electric guitar with a mahogany body and mahogany neck, plus a Macassar ebony fingerboard. It carries two active humbucking pickups, and the Fluence model weighs 9.5 pounds. This is a straightforward black guitar for players who want an active-pickup solidbody with all-mahogany construction and an ebony board.
Pros
- Mahogany body and neck
- Macassar ebony fingerboard
- Two active humbucking pickups
- Solidbody construction
- Black finish
Cons
- No scale length, fret count, or bridge type listed in the specs
- Only one pickup configuration is offered in this model
- At 9.5 pounds, it is a heavier solidbody option
Good fit if
- You want an all-mahogany electric guitar with an ebony fingerboard
- You prefer active humbucking pickups
- You are shopping for a black solidbody ESP LTD model
Skip if
- You need detailed specs like scale length or fret count before buying
- You want a passive pickup configuration
- You are looking for a lighter-weight guitar
Verdict: ESP LTD EC-1000S Fluence Black is a solid black ESP LTD with mahogany construction, an ebony fingerboard, and active humbuckers, making it a practical choice for players who want those core specs.
ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature KH-602
Best for: Kirk Hammett fans wanting a vibrato-equipped solidbody
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Body Material
- Alder
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Ebony
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Humbucking Pickups
- Body Type
- Solidbody
The ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature KH-602 is a solidbody electric guitar with an alder body, maple neck, and ebony fingerboard. It features two humbucking pickups and a vibrato system. This black model is part of Kirk Hammett's signature line, offering a familiar feel for metal players who want a reliable, spec-focused instrument.
Pros
- Solidbody alder construction
- Two humbucking pickups for high-output tone
- Ebony fingerboard for smooth playability
- Includes a vibrato system
Cons
- Only available in two color options: Black and Purple Sparkle
- No active electronics or extended range features listed
Good fit if
- You want a signature model inspired by Kirk Hammett's playing style
- You prefer a classic solidbody with a maple neck and ebony fretboard
- You need a vibrato bridge for expressive playing
Skip if
- You are looking for a multi-scale or 7-string guitar
- You prefer a fixed bridge over a vibrato system
- You want a guitar with a gloss finish or different body wood
Verdict: ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-602 Black is a solid signature model with an alder body, maple neck, ebony fingerboard, and two humbuckers. It suits metal players who value a vibrato bridge and a straightforward, reliable build.
ESP LTD M-1000HT Black Electric Guitar
Best for: Players wanting a versatile fixed-bridge guitar
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Body Material
- Mahogany with Hawaiian Koa top
- Neck Material
- 3-piece Maple
- Dimensions
- 43 × 4 × 16 inches
This is a neck-thru electric guitar with a mahogany body and Hawaiian Koa top. It features a 3-piece maple neck, Seymour Duncan Jazz and Pearly Gates pickups, and a Hipshot fixed bridge with string-thru-body design. It suits players who want a versatile, fixed-bridge guitar with a natural gloss finish in black.
Pros
- Neck-thru construction for sustained resonance
- Mahogany body with Hawaiian Koa top
- Seymour Duncan Jazz and Pearly Gates pickups
- Hipshot fixed bridge with string-thru-body design
- Available in black color option
Cons
- No tremolo bridge for whammy bar effects
- No active pickups for high-output tones
- Only 2 color options available
Good fit if
- You prefer a fixed bridge for tuning stability
- You want a versatile pickup set for clean and overdriven tones
- You like a neck-thru construction for sustain
Skip if
- You need a tremolo or locking vibrato system
- You want active pickups for metal-focused tones
- You prefer a bolt-on neck for easier maintenance
Verdict: ESP LTD M-1000HT Black Electric Guitar offers neck-thru construction, a mahogany body with Koa top, and versatile Seymour Duncan pickups, making it a solid choice for players seeking a fixed-bridge guitar with sustain and tonal flexibility.
ESP LTD EC-257 7-String Black Satin
Best for: players seeking a 7-string Eclipse with mahogany construction
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- Roasted Jatoba
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Humbucking Pickups
- Number of Strings
- 7
The ESP LTD EC-257 is a 7-string electric guitar with a mahogany body and mahogany neck, finished in black satin. It features a roasted jatoba fingerboard and two humbucking pickups. This guitar suits players who want to explore extended-range playing without leaving the classic single-cutaway Eclipse body shape.
Pros
- 7-string configuration for extended low-end range
- Mahogany body and neck for warm, resonant tone
- Roasted jatoba fingerboard for added stability and durability
- Two humbucking pickups for high-output, noise-free sound
- Black satin finish for a subdued, non-reflective look
Cons
- No tremolo bridge listed, limiting pitch-bending techniques
- Heavier than many 6-string models at 10 pounds
- Limited color option (only black satin)
Good fit if
- You want a 7-string guitar with a traditional single-cutaway design
- You prefer a satin finish over a glossy one
- You value a mahogany neck for smooth playability
Skip if
- You need a 6-string guitar for standard tuning
- You want a guitar with a Floyd Rose or other locking tremolo system
- You prefer a lighter instrument under 9 pounds
Verdict: ESP LTD EC-257 7-String Black Satin is a solid choice if you are looking for a 7-string Eclipse model with a mahogany build and roasted jatoba fingerboard, though it lacks a tremolo bridge and comes only in black satin.
ESP LTD EC-1000FR Black Satin
Best for: players wanting a black mahogany guitar with a Floyd Rose
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Body Material
- mahogany
- Neck Material
- mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- ebony
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 humbucking pickups
- Body Type
- solidbody
This is a solidbody electric guitar with a mahogany body and mahogany neck, paired with an ebony fingerboard. It carries two humbucking pickups and a Floyd Rose tremolo. The black satin finish suits players who want a subdued look with metal-ready hardware. It fits anyone focused on a straightforward, high-performance setup.
Pros
- Mahogany body and neck for a warm, resonant tone
- Ebony fingerboard for a smooth playing feel
- Floyd Rose tremolo for expressive pitch effects
- Two humbucking pickups for a thick, high-output sound
- Black satin finish across the guitar
Cons
- No case or gig bag is listed in the specifications
- At 14 pounds, it is on the heavier side
- No electronics details such as coil-splitting are listed
Good fit if
- You want a black solidbody with a Floyd Rose tremolo
- You prefer a mahogany body and neck for a darker tone
- You like an ebony fingerboard for a slick playing surface
Skip if
- You want a hardtail bridge for simpler tuning stability
- You need a lighter guitar for long gigs
- You want onboard coil-splitting or extra electronics options
Verdict: ESP LTD EC-1000FR Black Satin is a solid black electric guitar with mahogany construction, an ebony board, dual humbuckers, and a Floyd Rose tremolo. It delivers a practical metal-oriented feature set without extra frills.
ESP LTD George Lynch GL-200 Black
Best for: players who want a signature guitar with a Floyd Rose bridge
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Body Material
- Basswood
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Scale Length
- 25.5”
- Weight
- 10.3 pounds
The ESP LTD George Lynch GL-200 is a solid-body electric guitar with a basswood body and bolt-on maple neck. It features a 25.5-inch scale length, a U-shaped neck profile, and an HS pickup configuration with custom ESP pickups. A double-locking Floyd Rose Special bridge supports aggressive playing. This guitar suits players looking for a signature model with a classic rock or metal tone.
Pros
- Basswood body with bolt-on Maple neck for balanced weight and resonance
- U-shaped neck profile and 25.5-inch scale length for comfortable reach
- Custom ESP pickups in HS configuration for versatile tone
- Double-locking Floyd Rose Special bridge for stable tuning under heavy use
- Simple controls with 1 push/pull Volume knob for easy operation
Cons
- No neck pickup, limiting tonal variety compared to HH or HSS models
- Floyd Rose Special bridge may require more maintenance than standard bridges
- Only one volume knob with no tone control for shaping sound
Good fit if
- You want a signature model inspired by George Lynch's playing style
- You prefer a double-locking tremolo system for dive bombs and bends
- You like a simple control layout with a push/pull function
Skip if
- You need a guitar with a neck pickup for cleaner or jazz tones
- You prefer a fixed bridge for simpler tuning stability
- You want a guitar with a tone control knob
Verdict: ESP LTD George Lynch GL-200 Black is a solid choice for players who want a signature model with a Floyd Rose bridge and a hot pickup configuration, but its HS setup and minimal controls may not suit everyone.
ESP LTD EC-1007 Baritone 7-String EverTune
Best for: players seeking a baritone 7-string with active pickups and EverTune bridge
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- Ebony
- Number of Strings
- 7
- Body Type
- solid body
The ESP LTD EC-1007 Baritone 7-String is a solid-body electric guitar built for extended-range playing. It features a mahogany body and neck, an ebony fingerboard, and active humbucking pickups. The EverTune bridge keeps tuning stable under heavy use. This guitar suits players who want a baritone 7-string with a black finish and professional-grade hardware.
Pros
- 7-string baritone design for extended range
- Active humbucking pickups deliver high output
- EverTune bridge for rock-solid tuning stability
- Mahogany body and neck for warm, resonant tone
- Ebony fingerboard offers smooth playability
Cons
- Heavier than many standard 6-string guitars at 11.4 pounds
- No included case or gig bag listed in specs
- Baritone scale may feel unfamiliar to standard-scale players
Good fit if
- You play low-tuned metal or extended-range music
- You want a baritone 7-string with active pickups and an EverTune bridge
- You prefer a black finish and mahogany construction
Skip if
- You need a standard 6-string guitar
- You prefer passive pickups or a lighter instrument
- You are not comfortable with a baritone scale length
Verdict: ESP LTD EC-1007 Baritone 7-String is a solid choice for players who need a 7-string baritone with active pickups and the tuning stability of an EverTune bridge, all in a black finish.
ESP LTD Arrow-1007 EverTune 7-string Baritone
Best for: low-tuned 7-string metal playing
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Ebony
- Number of Strings
- 7
- Body Type
- solid body
View on Amazon: ESP LTD Arrow-1007 EverTune 7-string Baritone
This is a 7-string baritone electric guitar with a solid mahogany body, maple neck, and ebony fingerboard. It pairs two active humbucking pickups with EverTune hardware. The baritone design suits low tunings, and the 7-string layout gives you an extended lower range. This one is aimed at players who want a black, aggressive metal instrument with modern specs.
Pros
- 7-string baritone design for extended low range
- Solid mahogany body
- Maple neck with ebony fingerboard
- Two active humbucking pickups
- EverTune hardware
Cons
- Weighs 11.3 pounds, heavier than many solid-body guitars
- No case or gig bag listed
- Active pickups require a battery
Good fit if
- You play low-tuned metal or modern rock
- You want a 7-string baritone with active pickups
- You prefer a black finish and ebony fingerboard
Skip if
- You want a lighter guitar for long gigs
- You prefer passive pickups
- You do not need 7-string range
Verdict: ESP LTD Arrow-1007 7-String Baritone Electric Guitar is a spec-focused choice for players who want extended range, active pickups, and EverTune stability in a black solid-body.
ESP LTD Eclipse EC-256 Black Satin
Best for: players who want a straightforward mahogany solidbody with humbuckers
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- Jatoba
- Body Type
- Solidbody
- Dimensions
- 42 × 4 × 17 inches
This is a solidbody electric guitar with a mahogany body and mahogany neck, paired with a jatoba fingerboard. It carries two humbucking pickups, so it is built for thicker, higher-output tones. The 24.75-inch scale and 11.5-pound weight make it a comfortable, traditional-feeling single-cut. It suits players who want a straightforward black guitar with classic solidbody construction.
Pros
- Mahogany body and neck for a warm, resonant foundation
- Two humbucking pickups deliver a full, high-output voice
- Jatoba fingerboard offers a bright, snappy response
- 24.75-inch scale gives a familiar, easy-bending feel
Cons
- No tremolo bridge or locking tuners listed
- Only two pickups, with no coil-split options in the specs
Good fit if
- You want a simple solidbody with classic mahogany tone woods
- You prefer a satin black finish and traditional single-cut shape
- You are looking for a comfortable 24.75-inch scale guitar
Skip if
- You need a floating tremolo or extended range beyond six strings
- You want a guitar with multiple pickup configurations or switching options
Verdict: ESP LTD Eclipse EC-256 Black Satin is a no-frills solidbody with mahogany construction and dual humbuckers, giving you a dependable black guitar for classic rock and metal tones.
ESP LTD EC-1000 Black Solidbody
Best for: players wanting a classic mahogany and ebony solidbody
- Color
- Black (what this guide is about)
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- Ebony
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Humbucking Pickups
- Body Type
- Solidbody
The ESP LTD EC-1000 in Black is a solidbody electric guitar with a mahogany body and mahogany neck. It has an ebony fingerboard and two humbucking pickups. The guitar is a standard-size model available in six variations, including a left-handed option. It suits players who want a straightforward black electric guitar with classic wood and pickup specs.
Pros
- Mahogany body and mahogany neck
- Ebony fingerboard
- Two humbucking pickups
- Available in left-handed and other color options
Cons
- Only two pickup configuration listed
- No tremolo or bridge type specified
Good fit if
- You want a solidbody guitar with an all-mahogany construction
- You prefer an ebony fingerboard
- You need a left-handed version of this model
Skip if
- You want a guitar with active pickups
- You need a tremolo system
- You are looking for a multi-scale or extended-range instrument
Verdict: ESP LTD EC-1000 Black Solidbody is a straightforward black electric guitar with mahogany construction, an ebony fingerboard, and two humbuckers, making it a solid choice for traditional solidbody players.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-202 | ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-WZ | ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin | ESP LTD EC-201 Electric Guitar Black | ESP LTD EC-1000S Fluence Black | ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature KH-602 | ESP LTD M-1000HT Black Electric Guitar | ESP LTD EC-257 7-String Black Satin | ESP LTD EC-1000FR Black Satin | ESP LTD George Lynch GL-200 Black | ESP LTD EC-1007 Baritone 7-String EverTune | ESP LTD Arrow-1007 EverTune 7-string Baritone | ESP LTD Eclipse EC-256 Black Satin | ESP LTD EC-1000 Black Solidbody |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body Material | Basswood | Alder | mahogany | Mahogany | Mahogany | Alder | Mahogany with Hawaiian Koa top | Mahogany | mahogany | Basswood | Mahogany | Mahogany | Mahogany | Mahogany |
| Neck Material | Maple | Maple | mahogany | Mahogany | Mahogany | Maple | 3-piece Maple | Mahogany | mahogany | Maple | Mahogany | Maple | Mahogany | Mahogany |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood | Rosewood | ebony | Rosewood | Macassar Ebony | Ebony | not specified | Roasted Jatoba | ebony | not specified | Ebony | Ebony | Jatoba | Ebony |
| Pickup Configuration | 2 Humbucking Pickups | not specified | 2 active humbucking pickups | 1 Humbucking Pickup | 2 Active Humbucking Pickups | 2 Humbucking Pickups | not specified | 2 Humbucking Pickups | 2 humbucking pickups | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 2 Humbucking Pickups |
| Number of Strings | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 7 | not specified | not specified | 7 | 7 | not specified | not specified |
| Body Type | Solidbody | solid body | solidbody | Solidbody | Solidbody | Solidbody | not specified | not specified | solidbody | not specified | solid body | solid body | Solidbody | Solidbody |
| Number of Frets | not specified | 24 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Scale Length | not specified | 25.5" | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 25.5” | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Hand Orientation | Right-Handed | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black |
| Dimensions | 19 × 6 × 48 inches | 47 × 5 × 19 inches | 44 × 16 × 6 inches | 42.8 × 17.7 × 4.4 inches | 44 × 4 × 16 inches | 51 × 6 × 18 inches | 43 × 4 × 16 inches | 42 × 5 × 18 inches | 44 × 16 × 6 inches | not specified | 48 × 18 × 8 inches | 48 × 18 × 8 inches | 42 × 4 × 17 inches | 42 × 4 × 16 inches |
| Weight | 10.1 pounds | 13 pounds | 12 pounds | 1 pounds | 9.5 pounds | not specified | not specified | 10 pounds | 14 pounds | 10.3 pounds | 11.4 pounds | 11.3 pounds | 11.5 pounds | not specified |
| Size | KH-202 | not specified | not specified | 42.8 inches | Fluence | KH-602 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 48 inches | not specified | 24.75 inches | Standard |
| Model | LKH202BLK | LKHWZ | LEC1000ETBBBLKS | LEC201BLK | LEC1000SBLKF | LKH602 | LM1000HTKNAT | LEC257BLKS | LEC1000FRBLKS | LGL200KBLK | LEC1007BETBLK | LARROW1007BETBLK | LEC256BLKS | LEC1000BLK |
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Check these specs for your ESP
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Verify hand orientation
Most guitars in this lineup are right-handed, which is the standard for most players. You should confirm the hand orientation in the product attributes before purchasing. The KH-202 is listed as right-handed. If you are left-handed, you will need to find a different model or modify the guitar. Checking this spec early saves time. It is a basic physical constraint that determines whether the instrument fits your playing style immediately. Do not assume standard orientation applies to every listing without checking the data.
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Compare pickup types
Pickups define the core tone of your instrument. You will find active humbuckers in the EC-1000 Evertune and EC-1000S Fluence. These provide high output and clarity for modern metal. The EC-201 uses a single humbucker for a simpler, budget-friendly tone. The M-1000HT features Seymour Duncan pickups for versatility. You should match the pickup configuration to your genre. Active pickups require a battery, while passive ones do not. Review the verdict and specs to see which type suits your sonic needs.
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Assess bridge stability
The bridge system affects tuning stability and playing technique. Several models feature Floyd Rose tremolo systems, including the KH-202, EC-1000FR, and GL-200. These allow for dive bombs but require more setup. The M-1000HT has a fixed bridge for maximum sustain. The EC-1007 and Arrow-1007 use EverTune bridges for exceptional tuning accuracy. You should choose a bridge based on your need for pitch modulation. If you rarely use the whammy bar, a fixed or EverTune bridge may be more practical for your daily playing.
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Review fretboard material
The fretboard material influences play speed and tone warmth. Ebony is used in the EC-1000 Evertune, EC-1000S Fluence, KH-602, and EC-1000FR. This dense wood offers a smooth, fast feel. The EC-257 features a roasted jatoba fingerboard. The EC-201 does not specify the fretboard material in the provided data. You should consider how different woods affect your hand comfort. Ebony is often preferred for high-speed metal playing. Check the specs to ensure the material matches your tactile preferences and tonal goals.
-
Check body construction
Body construction impacts weight and resonance. Many models use mahogany bodies, such as the EC-1000 Evertune and EC-201. The KH-602 features an alder body with a maple neck. The M-1000HT uses neck-thru construction with a mahogany body and Koa top. You should consider how these materials affect the guitar's weight. The EC-201 is notably light at one pound, while the EC-1000FR weighs 14 pounds. Heavier bodies may offer more sustain but can cause fatigue during long sessions. Match the construction to your comfort and tonal requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Which ESP black guitar is best for metal players?
The ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-202 is the top pick for metal. It includes a Floyd Rose tremolo system for stable pitch control during heavy playing. The black finish and signature model status make it a practical choice for players seeking that specific aesthetic and functional setup.
Does ESP make black seven-string electric guitars?
Yes, ESP offers several black seven-string options. The EC-257 and Arrow-1007 are baritone models designed for low-tuned metal. Both feature mahogany construction and active pickups. The Arrow-1007 includes an EverTune bridge for enhanced tuning stability, which is valuable for extended-range playing.
What is the lightest ESP black electric guitar on this list?
The ESP LTD EC-1000S Fluence Black is the lightest model at 9.5 pounds. It features an all-mahogany body and active humbuckers. This weight makes it comfortable for long practice sessions or performances without causing excessive fatigue during extended use.
Which ESP black guitar has a fixed bridge?
The ESP LTD M-1000HT features a fixed bridge with neck-thru construction. This design provides reliable sustain and tonal flexibility. It is ideal for players who prefer the tuning stability of a fixed bridge over a tremolo system while maintaining a black aesthetic.
Are there ESP black guitars with ebony fingerboards?
Several models include ebony fingerboards. The EC-1000 Evertune, EC-1000S Fluence, and EC-1000FR all feature this material. Ebony offers a smooth playing surface and bright tone. These specs make them suitable for fast playing techniques common in metal and hard rock genres.
Which ESP black guitar is the most compact?
The ESP LTD EC-201 is the most compact option at 42.8 inches in length. It features a single humbucker and mahogany construction. This straightforward design makes it a sensible budget pick for players who prefer a shorter, more manageable instrument size.
Does the George Lynch signature ESP have a Floyd Rose?
Yes, the ESP LTD George Lynch GL-200 includes a Floyd Rose bridge. It features a hot pickup configuration to deliver high output tones. This model is suitable for players who want a signature instrument with reliable tremolo stability and a black finish.
What wood is used in the ESP LTD EC-1000FR?
The ESP LTD EC-1000FR uses mahogany construction for its body. It is paired with an ebony fingerboard and dual humbuckers. This combination provides a practical metal-oriented feature set with a black satin finish, ensuring durability and consistent tonal performance.













