Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
4.5 (2)
$919.99
Amazon
3.7 (4)
$885.00
Reverb
$906.36 New
$600.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$919.99
Thomann
4.9 (10)
$729.00

Average Price: $827

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

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High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Cort KX 500 Etched Black". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Step into a world of sonic exploration with the Cort KX 500 Etched Black, a solid body electric guitar that artfully combines striking aesthetics with exceptional performance. Crafted with a mahogany body topped with ash, this guitar delivers a rich, full-bodied tone that resonates with depth and clarity. The bolt-on 3-piece neck, made of maple and amaranth, is expertly paired with a sleek Macassar ebony fretboard, offering smooth playability and an elegant feel.

For the modern guitarist, the KX 500 is equipped with two Fishman Fluence Modern humbuckers, renowned for their versatility and dynamic range. Whether you're shredding solos or laying down lush chords, these pickups bring your sound to life with precision and power. With active electronics and intuitive controls, including a push/pull function for Voice1/2 and coil split, you'll have the flexibility to shape your tone exactly as you envision.

Beyond its impressive sound capabilities, the Cort KX 500 features practical enhancements such as clamping machine heads for reliable tuning stability and a hardtail bridge with individual string saddles for precise intonation. The sleek design is complemented by black nickel hardware, making this guitar not only a joy to play but a statement piece on any stage.

Key Features:

  • Top: Ash
  • Body: Mahogany
  • Bolt-on 3-piece neck: Maple / Amaranth
  • Fretboard: Macassar ebony
  • 24 Frets
  • Scale: 648 mm
  • Pickups: 2 Fishman Fluence Modern humbuckers
  • Active electronics with push/pull function for Voice1/2 and coil split
  • 3-Way switch
  • Clamping machine heads
  • Hardtail bridge with individual string saddles
  • String guidance through the body
  • Black nickel hardware
  • Strings: Daddario EXL120 Nickel Wound .009 - .042

Product specs

Available since March 2020
Colour Black
Body Mahogany
Top Ash
Neck Maple, Amaranth
Fretboard Ebony
Frets 24
Scale 648 mm
Pickups HH
Tremolo None
incl. Bag No
incl. Case No

FAQs

What type of music is the Cort KX 500 Etched Black best suited for?

The Cort KX 500 Etched Black, featuring Fishman Fluence Modern humbuckers, is ideal for genres requiring high output and versatility, such as metal and rock. Its tonal range covers everything from aggressive to clean, making it suitable for various styles.

Does the Cort KX 500 Etched Black have a tremolo system?

No, the Cort KX 500 Etched Black does not have a tremolo system. It is a fixed bridge guitar, which provides stability and ease of tuning, especially beneficial for heavier music styles.

What is the neck profile of the Cort KX 500 Etched Black like?

The neck of the Cort KX 500 Etched Black is a 5-piece maple and purpleheart bolt-on design, offering a comfortable and stable playing experience. It's designed for fast playability, making it suitable for technical playing styles.

Are the pickups on the Cort KX 500 Etched Black active or passive?

The Cort KX 500 Etched Black is equipped with Fishman Fluence Modern humbucking pickups, which are active pickups. They provide a modern, high-gain sound with clarity and articulation.

Is the Cort KX 500 Etched Black suitable for beginners?

While the Cort KX 500 Etched Black offers professional features like active pickups and an ebony fretboard, its playability and versatile sound make it accessible for dedicated beginners interested in rock or metal. However, its features are typically more appreciated by intermediate to advanced players.

Riffs, Beards & Gear

Riffs, Beards & Gear

LESS MONEY, MORE GUITAR! Cort KX500 Etched!

Video thumbnail for LESS MONEY, MORE GUITAR! Cort KX500 Etched! by Riffs, Beards & Gear

LESS MONEY, MORE GUITAR! Cort KX500 Etched!

Riffs, Beards & Gear

Riffs, Beards & Gear

Video thumbnail for Hear the Cort KX500 Etched (feat. Hedras Ramos) by Cort Guitars and Basses

Hear the Cort KX500 Etched (feat. Hedras Ramos)

Cort Guitars and Basses

Cort Guitars and Basses

Video thumbnail for This is a Great Guitar... From a Brand You Should Know About!! || Cort KX-500 Etched by Agufish

This is a Great Guitar... From a Brand You Should Know About!! || Cort KX-500 Etched

Agufish

Agufish

Video thumbnail for Cort KX500 Etched - Detailed Review Part 1 by Max Solo Music

Cort KX500 Etched - Detailed Review Part 1

Max Solo Music

Max Solo Music

Video thumbnail for Cort KX500 Etched - Detailed Review Part 2 by Max Solo Music

Cort KX500 Etched - Detailed Review Part 2

Max Solo Music

Max Solo Music

Video thumbnail for CORT KX500 ETCHED EBK | Recenzja by CTG TV

CORT KX500 ETCHED EBK | Recenzja

CTG TV

CTG TV

Video thumbnail for Cort kx500 Etched - que tan buenas son las guitarras hechas por CORT ???? by Oswaldo Contramaestre

Cort kx500 Etched - que tan buenas son las guitarras hechas por CORT ????

Oswaldo Contramaestre

Oswaldo Contramaestre

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique neck profile, flat in the middle for distinct playability

  • Lightweight design enhances comfort during long sessions

  • High-quality craftsmanship with visible wood grain, minimal lacquer

  • Excellent vibration and sustain, both unplugged and amplified

  • Versatile sound range from aggressive metal to shimmering cleans

  • Active Fishman pickups provide nuanced tonal options

  • Stable tuning with locking tuners, well-adjusted string height

  • Push/pull pots for versatile coil-splitting and voice switching

  • Timeless design with a cool, sleek aesthetic

  • Five-piece neck for enhanced durability and stability

CONS

  • Potentiometers and pickup switch feel light and wobbly

  • No gig bag included, packaged in basic cardboard box

  • Binding around the body is angular, lacks smoother transitions

  • Electronics are somewhat messy and lack a "snap-in" battery compartment

  • Bridge and neck height could be better aligned for optimal setup

  • One bridge screw was loose upon arrival, needing adjustment

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Cort KX 500 Etched Black.

Features and functionality

  • The Cort KX 500 is equipped with active Fishman Fluence pickups, which are particularly appealing for metal genres.

    Source
  • The Cort KX 500 comes with stock Cort locking tuners, enhancing tuning stability and convenience for players.

    Source
  • The guitar features a stock hardtail bridge, which is noted for its decent quality and stability.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Cort KX 500 is perceived to have better specifications compared to the Solar S2.6, despite being $100 more expensive.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users find the aesthetics of the Cort KX 500 more appealing due to its unique ash burl top and maple-purple neck construction.

    Source
  • Owners praise the Fishman pickups for their tight and crisp tone, even at high gain with distortion, ideal for clear note definition in metal genres.

    Source
  • The guitar's finish is frequently highlighted for its aesthetic appeal, with specific mentions of a black grain and an available etched deep violet finish.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Cort KX 500 is specifically noted for its suitability in metal music, largely due to its active pickups.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Availability concerns in certain regions can impact decision-making, as shown by the Cort's 4-5 month delivery time compared to the Solar's 2 months.

    Source
  • The Fishman Fluence pickups in the Cort KX 500 are valued around $200, making the guitar a strong deal at approximately $550.

    Source

Other

  • The model number EBK mentioned on the box likely refers to the Etched Black finish, though no distinct differences from the EB model are identified.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Cort KX500 Etched Guitar Review | Performer Mag

performermag.com

The Cort KX500 Etched Black delivers a striking aesthetic with its flat/satin finish and unique burled ash top, combined with outstanding playability thanks to its smooth neck and low action. Fishman’s Fluence pickups provide aggressive tones while maintaining clarity, perfect for modern metal and progressive styles. However, its potential to be overlooked in a crowded market may deter some players. Overall, this guitar stands out as a refined option for serious musicians seeking a powerful instrument without the high-profile brand price tag.

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